In the realm of interior design, the challenge of breathing new life into a historic country house is a captivating endeavor. This particular 19th-century residence in Hampshire, England, was a prime example of a grand yet dysfunctional space, until a creative team of architects and designers stepped in to orchestrate a transformative journey. The story of this renovation is not just about aesthetics; it's a testament to the power of design in harmonizing the past with the present, and the future.
A House in Need of a Makeover
The house, with its large rooms and picturesque views, was a blank canvas waiting for a fresh perspective. However, the disjointed layout and lack of functionality made it a challenge for a young family. The kitchen, for instance, was a long and narrow space on the north side, lacking natural light and disconnected from the main living areas. The lower ground floor, housing the games room and utility room, felt like an afterthought. It was clear that a reconfiguration was necessary to create a space that reflected the modern lifestyle of its new owners.
The Creative Process
Architect Hugh Petter, with his familiarity with the house and its previous owners, was the ideal candidate to spearhead the project. His approach was to respect the character of the house while making alterations that suited the family's contemporary needs. The lack of planning restrictions for the building simplified the process, allowing for external changes like moving the drive and adding a new entrance.
A Grand Entrance
One of the key changes was the relocation of the front entrance. The original west-end entrance felt like a side door, while the north side was largely unused. Petter introduced a classic stone porch, adding a sense of arrival and providing a practical solution for parking cars in an area with limited sunlight. This simple yet effective change enhanced the overall flow of the house, creating a seamless transition between the outdoors and the interior.
The Heart of the Home
The kitchen and living room underwent a significant transformation. The former interconnecting drawing room and dining room were combined to create an open-plan kitchen diner and family room, maximizing the south-facing views and creating a space the family could use all the time. The architectural changes were understated, but the interiors were a bold statement of color and pattern.
A Splash of Color
Interior designer Charlotte Smiley embraced the family's fun and confident nature, encouraging them to push the boundaries of design. The kitchen, for instance, was a symphony of colors and patterns. A floral fabric from Soane dictated the color palette, with blush pink walls, green cabinetry, and a deep aubergine island. The dining chairs, covered in a custom fabric from Ian Sanderson, added a playful touch. The family room, with its sofa and armchairs upholstered in fabrics from Lee Jofa and Penny Morrison, created a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The Drawing Room
The formal drawing room, created from the former entrance hall and study, showcased a botanical wallpaper from Lewis & Wood, echoing the garden views. The cabinetry, painted in Nori from Paint & Paper Library, was a bespoke touch, and the bookcase on the right side of the fireplace was a 'secret door' leading to the family room. Petter emphasized the historical context, noting that early 19th-century houses often featured strong colors, which create a warm and comfortable ambiance.
The Library and Playroom
The former kitchen became a sophisticated library, painted in Farrow & Ball's Dix Blue in high gloss. Pages from a coffee-table book by John Derian were meticulously mounted as wallpaper, creating a unique and immersive space. The playroom, replacing an old sitting room, was a vibrant space with khaki walls and orange joinery. Smiley ensured that the design was playful yet not too childlike, using colors and textures to create a fun and engaging environment.
The Cinema Room
On the lower ground floor, the old games room was transformed into a plush cinema room with tiered seating. A richly patterned Thiabut wallpaper created an immersive atmosphere, while the woodwork and window frames painted blue added a playful element. Petter highlighted the importance of integrating the house in a free-flowing way, creating a space that felt like an extension of the 21st-century lifestyle.
The Children's Bedrooms
Smiley approached the children's rooms with longevity in mind. The youngest daughter's bedroom, for instance, featured a boutique hotel-style wallcovering and a custom-made cabin bed painted in a vivid green. This color, while not typical for a four-year-old, was chosen to last for many years to come.
A Guide to Color and Pattern
Smiley and Petter offer valuable insights for those looking to add color and pattern to historic houses. They advise against neutrals, emphasizing the historical significance of bold colors. Researching period homes and visiting National Trust houses can provide inspiration and context. Using wallpaper or fabric as the starting point for a room's color palette and embracing pattern while considering its scale are key principles. Testing paint colors and wallpaper samples before committing is essential to avoid costly mistakes.
A Lasting Legacy
This renovation is a testament to the power of design in transforming spaces and lives. It's a story of how a house can be brought back to life, not just through physical changes but also through the creation of a warm and inviting home. The use of color and pattern, combined with thoughtful architectural alterations, has resulted in a space that is both historically respectful and perfectly suited to the modern family. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most significant changes are those that enhance the essence of a place, making it a home rather than just a house.
