WHO
Names:
Anna Barber – Co-Founder and Director;
James Gavigan – Co-Founder and Creative Director
Education:
James Gavigan: National Film School of Ireland (IADT, Dublin)
Anna Barber: Chelsea College of Arts, London
Field of Study:
James Gavigan: Cinematography
Anna Barber: Design
Anna Barber and James Gavigan are the creative minds behind House of Kin (HoK), a design studio that crafts joyful, story-led environments for children and adults alike. Their unique backgrounds—James in cinematography and Anna in operational design—inform their approach to creating spaces that spark joy and foster connection.
WHY
Year Established: 2019
Inspiration to Start:
Barber and Gavigan met in 2008 at Maggie & Rose, where Barber was head of design and Gavigan was freelancing while working on global brand activations for major tech companies. Their collaboration over five years revealed a niche in designing spaces that cater to both children and adults without compromising either. This shared vision and complementary skill sets led to the founding of House of Kin, a studio built on trust, storytelling, and the belief that design should be both meaningful and magical.
First Major Commission:
Their first project, Riverside Nursery for Dukes Education, was a reimagining of an early years setting during the pandemic. The design, inspired by Montessori principles and infused with whimsical elements, won a BIID Award and was longlisted by Dezeen, showcasing the impact of thoughtful, child-centred design.
Future Plans:
House of Kin is currently developing a mass-market product range for children, collaborating with a leading family brand to design new children’s spaces across the UK. They also envision a studio/showroom hybrid that allows people to experience their designs firsthand in an immersive environment.
WHAT
Eaton Square Nursery – Belgravia, London
This project transformed a Georgian townhouse into a whimsical nursery, celebrating English country estates. The design features a pastel-rich palette, bespoke furniture, and sculptural installations, including the standout Illuminated Orchard—papier-mâché fruit lampshades that double as light sculptures, creating a storybook atmosphere.
Miss Daisy’s Nursery – Hyde Park, London
Nestled in a secret garden, this project combines sustainable design with a forest school concept. The design includes a modular classroom and a towering 5-metre forest play structure, all carefully installed to preserve the existing trees, creating a harmonious blend of nature and education.
Kindhood Beach Club – Repulse Bay, Hong Kong
This family club merges the concepts of a mindfulness retreat and a chic social space. Guided by the mantra of kindness, the design incorporates local topography, recycled materials, and calming hues, creating an inviting atmosphere that promotes well-being and connection.
WHERE
For more information about House of Kin and to explore the studio’s innovative designs, visit its website: www.houseofkin.co.uk and follow them on Instagram: @houseofkindesign.
