The Challenge

This characterful cottage had fallen into disrepair and was in need of a full renovation as well as a complete interior re-design. The brief was to breathe new life into the property while honouring its charm and history. Sustainability was a key priority for the client, so wherever possible, original features and existing elements were reused or sympathetically updated rather than replaced.

The Concept

The first step in shaping the design was to carefully assess what could be retained. We wanted to preserve the Imperial bathroom sanitaryware, which gave us a beautiful foundation of timeless quality. Lifting the tired carpets downstairs revealed an unexpected treasure: the original terracotta floor running throughout the ground floor. Its rustic character and natural warmth became central to the new scheme.

To complement this, I introduced an aged blue-grey tone on the walls, creating a calm yet characterful backdrop. The colour palette developed organically from there, balancing soft, muted blues with a variety of warm, earthy hues. This blend of cool and warm tones created a layered, welcoming atmosphere that felt true to the cottage’s heritage.

The layout was re-imagined to improve flow and usability. A cosy breakfast nook was introduced in the kitchen to make the most of natural light and provide a sociable spot for morning coffee. Upstairs, a cramped bath was replaced with a generous walk-in shower, and bespoke built-in cabinetry was designed to maximise storage without compromising the cottage’s character.

Rather than replacing the kitchen in its entirety, we opted for a sustainable refresh: new doors, trims, and finishes gave the cabinetry a fresh lease of life while avoiding unnecessary waste. Throughout the home, textures were layered — from natural woods and stone to soft fabrics and woven accents — ensuring the cottage felt cosy, inviting, and tactile.

The Outcome

The result was a complete transformation: a once-neglected property became a beautifully restored home, full of warmth, charm, and functionality. Original features were celebrated, new design elements brought comfort and modernity, and the thoughtful blend of textures and tones made the space truly welcoming for family and guests alike.