Dec 08, 2025
Former Love island star turned successful property developer, Luke Mabbot, purchased the charming yet tired 1879 Wesleyan Chapel in Newquay, with the vision to transform it into a unique, cosy and practical home.
Before the Chapel, Luke had done a few smaller scale renovations, and was ready to take on something more ambitious. “I’ve always loved the idea of breathing new life into old spaces – taking a building that’s been neglected and turning it into something special again”. And turn it into something special he did.
Luke was immediately drawn to the character of the old chapel – The high ceilings, the original windows and all the history it contained. He fell in love with its potential and had the vision of turning it into a home that honoured its past but was also set for modern living.
The finished space encapsulated this vision perfectly. Light, airy and timeless, it paired a neutral palette and organic textures to create a calm and considered look. Characterful additions, including cottage style sliding doors, a pellet stove, and a stunning oak staircase complemented the chapel’s original features.
For the flooring, Luke chose Naked Oak Herringbone LVT for an authentic and elegant look with a clean, modern finish.
Choosing finishes that were as practical as they were beautiful was a priority for Luke. “It’s one thing for a space to look beautiful, but it has to be liveable day-to-day”.
The flooring for example, needed to be durable and easy to clean too. “LVT flooring was a smart choice as it gave me the look of real wood without the worry, and I knew it would look great years down the line”.
Naked Oak herringbone LVT flooring was installed seamlessly throughout the entire property, creating an enhanced sense of space, and giving the home a more cohesive feel.
“I wanted something that looked classic and premium, but was also practical.” Luke explained. “Naked Oak instantly stood out – it has that timeless oak look and the herringbone adds visual interest without being overpowering”. The light oak tone perfectly complemented the aesthetic and layered beautifully with the natural textures used throughout the space. Its versatile shade also made it ideal for evolving tastes of potential future home owners. Luke commented “It ticked every box.”
Taking on a project of this scale and attention to detail didn’t come without its challenges. Preserving the chapel’s character meant working thoughtfully with the building’s existing structure. “There were times where the design had to be adapted, but being flexible and finding solutions that worked with the chapel, rather than against it, made all the difference”. In the end the hard work paid off, and Luke’s commitment to a sympathetic restoration is exactly what made the project so impressive.
Repurposed, reloved, and given a brand new chapter the immaculate transformation of this historic gem immediately leaves a lasting impression. “Buyers walk in and see a home that feels warm, stylish and ready to move into”.
This is especially true for the main living area, and Luke’s favourite spot, which unfolds with such openness, establishing itself as the highlight of the home.
The success of the chapel has set a new standard for Luke and his company, Brotherhood Properties, with more projects already in the pipeline. “The chapel pushed me to think more creatively and problem-solve in ways I hadn’t before” Luke commented. “Going forward, I’ll always look at how to balance preserving character with modern design, and how the right finishes, like flooring, can really elevate a project”.
Explore Luke’s journey (@the_cornish_chapel) or try out Naked Oak LVT flooring in your home using our room visualiser.
