A historic home in Oxfordshire has undergone a comprehensive renovation, transforming it into a modern family residence tailored for contemporary living. The property, which includes a coach house and party barn, has been reimagined by **Amy Dalrymple** of **Dalrymple Studio** to reflect the diverse tastes of the owners, a couple with young children who primarily reside in **London**.
The clients sought a retreat from city life, as the home had been in the same family for many years and required significant updates. Dalrymple describes the interior as a blend of styles, aiming to reflect the couple’s extensive travels. “We dipped into every genre to create the interior around the clients,” she states. The result is a harmonious mix of elegance and practicality, featuring open-plan spaces complemented by cozy hideaways that invite friends and family to feel completely at home.
Revamping the Space
The renovation involved a complete overhaul of the interior, with the project aimed at achieving a carbon-neutral home. According to **Dalrymple**, the house was essentially gutted, allowing for the reconfiguration of rooms and the installation of high-tech systems. Each bedroom now features en-suite bathrooms, a new kitchen has been installed with a walk-in larder, and the basement was excavated to create a cinema room, all designed to enhance comfort and functionality.
The **party barn** has been transformed into an entertaining space, complete with a sophisticated bar. “It was a real passion project for the clients,” Dalrymple explains, emphasizing the importance of creating a relaxed aesthetic that would resonate with visitors. The design aims to ensure that every area of the home feels inviting and well-utilized, including spaces like the dining room, which is not merely for formal occasions.
Thoughtful Design Elements
Design choices throughout the home incorporate both modern and rustic elements. For example, the **kitchen** features dark green cabinetry that connects the interior to the surrounding countryside, while Delft tiles provide a subtle pattern. In the dining room, rustic elements combine with a fresh take on classic style, showcasing a blend of comfort and elegance.
Arched doorways are a recurring motif, adding softness and elegance to the layout. The open-plan kitchen-diner leads to the sitting room, where guests can choose between relaxing on plush sofas by the fire or enjoying the library area, complete with a sumptuous red velvet sofa.
The children’s playroom is particularly notable for its vibrant design. “We wanted the playroom to be really fun – it’s a space that’s got to stand the test of time and grow with the children,” Dalrymple notes. Bold colors and patterned wallpapers enhance the playful environment, while bespoke cabinetry ensures the space remains organized and functional.
Upstairs, the dressing room features hand-painted linen panels that mimic the local landscape, while the children’s bathroom showcases playful, scalloped detailing in its washstand. The overall design reflects a commitment to quality and comfort, making this Oxfordshire home not just a place to live, but a cherished retreat for family and friends alike.
With its careful blend of style, sustainability, and comfort, this refurbished home stands as a testament to modern family living, inviting all who enter to feel at ease.
