An East London Townhouse Transformed into a Soulful Escape

From a chance discovery on a quiet street in East London to creating a home that feels like an escape from the city, this is the story of Paul Firmin and Niko Dafkos.

After a six-month home search, the duo stumbled upon their Leyton townhouse and took a leap of faith, securing it without ever stepping inside. What they found was a home with great bones and endless potential, which they’ve since transformed into a deeply personal sanctuary.

As founders of Earl of East, Paul and Niko have brought their signature sensory approach to living into every corner of the space, layering rich paint colors, ambient lighting, and globally inspired details that reflect their travels, from East London to Los Angeles.

But beyond the design, their home tells a larger story about creativity, modern living, and the evolving idea of what it means to feel at home. It’s a philosophy they explore even further in their latest book, Home for Now, where they reimagine how to create beauty and meaning in spaces that may not be permanent.