For Martin and Shirlie Kemp, home wasn't just a place to live—it was a blank canvas waiting for a deeply personal transformation. They’d spent years searching, dreaming of a property they could truly shape from the ground up, a haven reflecting their life together.
That dream materialized in a Hertfordshire home, but realizing it demanded a complete overhaul. Over a year was dedicated to the project, a period of intense creativity and physical labor where every wall and ceiling came down, revealing the potential within.
Shirlie approached each space with a unique vision, immediately picturing it stripped bare. The kitchen, now a stunning blend of contemporary design and warm textures, was envisioned as a “calm space” – a central gathering point for their family to connect and enjoy each other’s company.
A surprising element of the renovation involved a dilapidated structure in the garden, affectionately nicknamed “Piglet.” Originally a pig shed dating back to 1940, its damaged roof initially suggested demolition, but Shirlie saw something more.
She bravely transformed the crumbling shed into a “romantic rustic dining room,” a space imbued with character and charm. The decision to paint the interior white, despite the allure of the aged patina, ultimately unlocked its potential as both a beautiful dining area and a versatile photography studio.
Their enduring love story is as captivating as the home they’ve created. Martin and Shirlie have been partners for decades, their connection sparked by a chance encounter orchestrated by none other than George Michael.
Martin was instantly captivated by Shirlie’s beauty after seeing her perform with Wham! on television. He bravely sought her out, but faced a three-week wait for her call, a delay born not of disinterest, but of understandable hesitation towards a rising pop star.
Shirlie confessed her initial apprehension, admitting she feared Martin would embody the typical “pop star” persona. Thankfully, her fears proved unfounded, and a lasting romance blossomed.
Today, Martin and Shirlie are proud parents to two accomplished children: TV presenter Roman Kemp and singer Harley Moon Kemp. Their family is a source of immense joy, and Martin has always cherished the idea of them operating as a close-knit “gang.”
The renovated home stands as a testament to their shared vision, a beautiful space built on decades of love, creativity, and a willingness to embrace the possibilities within every project – and within each other.
