Imagine a row of quaint, disconnected cottages, once humble and unassuming, now transformed into a breathtaking home with a view to die for. But here's where it gets interesting... the journey to this stunning transformation was far from ordinary.
The kitchen, a masterpiece crafted by Chisholm Design, boasts quartz worktops sourced from Surrey Marble & Granite, complemented by a natural oak island. The walls sing with Farrow & Ball's 'School House White', while the units wear 'Sadhika' by Atelier Ellis and the island dons 'Bamboozle'. The island is accompanied by 'Nicolle' stools from Dyke & Dean and ceramic pendant lights from Lyngard. Underfoot, limestone floor tiles from Artisans of Devizes are softened by a vintage rug, adding a touch of warmth and character.
The view from the house is breathtaking, says designer Holly Vaughan, who describes the South Downs National Park as a sight to behold. But rewind a few years, and the story takes a twist. The original cottages, dating back to the 19th century, were once a disjointed trio, with one rented out and another occupied by leaseholders. Holly's clients, a family with three children, envisioned a unified home with a seamless connection to the outdoors. However, their initial meetings with architects left them feeling uncertain.
Then, a breakthrough! Holly introduced them to Vaughan, a local building and design firm, who connected them with George & James Architects. The architects' ingenious solution? A glazed colonnade, a brilliant architectural feature that connects the cottages and houses a new staircase. This colonnade not only provides a seamless flow between the cottages but also offers a tantalizing glimpse of what's to come: a potential future connection to the fourth cottage.
The kitchen and dining area are a delightful blend of old and new. Built-in cupboards with chicken-wire doors, backed by 'Mr Men' clover wallpaper, provide a charming storage solution. Above a refectory table, pendant lampshades from Willow with Roots cast a warm glow, while 1950s Fischel French ox-back chairs from Merchant & Found add a touch of vintage elegance.
Holly's attention to detail is evident in the kitchen, where a pair of oak cabinets with rounded corners, reeded glass doors, and traditional brass latches steal the show. And let's not forget the curtains in Rose Uniacke's sheer linen, which bathe the space in a soft, dappled light. The green splashback tiles from Milagros add a vibrant pop of color.
The entrance, once tucked away, has been transformed into a grand porch, opening onto a stylish blue boot room with bespoke joinery. This space perfectly encapsulates the home's blend of classic and contemporary elements.
Holly's design approach is a refreshing take on the traditional country house. The kitchen, with its oak-topped island and limestone floor, exudes country charm, while the dining area embraces a rustic aesthetic with chicken-wire doors and woven willow pendant lights. And let's not forget the carefully curated antique, vintage, and reclaimed pieces, adding a unique touch to every corner.
Holly's fabric choices are a testament to her client's taste, with Kit Kemp's 'Lost and Found' geometric print featured on a cushion in the kitchen. And while the pelmets above the kitchen windows add a touch of softness, the colonnade's concealed electric blinds and filters ensure compliance with dark-sky regulations, a subtle yet important detail.
Storage is a standout feature throughout the home, with the boot room boasting coat cupboards, drawers, and cubby holes, all painted in Paint & Paper Library's 'Blue Gum'. And the main bedroom? A sanctuary with weighty linen curtains framing a huge window, offering a panoramic view of the gardens. The high vaulted ceiling adds to the sense of space and light, creating a peaceful retreat.
This home is a testament to the power of vision and collaboration. From the initial challenge to the stunning final result, it's a story of transformation and the creation of a unique, welcoming space. And the best part? The view just keeps getting better.
