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Modern renovations enhance the traditional charms of a rustic countryside dwelling

Transforms traditional allure with functional design, creating an ideal residence for families

Modern renovation breathes new life into traditional rural home
Modern renovation breathes new life into traditional rural home

Modern renovations enhance the traditional charms of a rustic countryside dwelling

Ali and Ben, a couple with small children, have recently moved to a charming Surrey village and have embarked on a remarkable renovation of their Grade II listed house, which dates back to the 1600s with significant extensions added during Georgian times.

The couple, eager to create a home that would be the heart of their family, sought the expertise of Charter Walk Kitchens for their kitchen transformation. Ali desired a spacious and inviting kitchen, and the design team did not disappoint. The new kitchen, resembling a traditional English chef's kitchen, features an Aga as the starting point, accompanied by marble worktops, a butler's sink, a large chef's table, and a sizeable pantry cupboard. The kitchen now stands in the light-filled space that was once the darkest part of the house, divided into an office, a laundry room, and a space for the dog.

To address the kitchen problem further, a new copper-roofed glass extension was built, designed by Mitchell Evans Architects and constructed by KM Grant. The extension offers a modern yet sympathetic addition to the historic property.

The main bedroom underwent a significant reconfiguration, with the dressing area swapped with the ensuite. The ensuite, a luxurious space, boasts a large and luxurious bathroom with an old dark wooden piece of furniture customized into a vanity unit. The main bedroom features pale, neutral tones and highlights period features such as the cast iron fireplace and shuttered windows.

The daughter's bedroom benefits from a triple aspect and is filled with natural light. Pretty neutrals offset by French antique-style furniture and natural textures create a warm and inviting space. The son's bedroom features antique furniture given a relaxed, modern refresh with striped accessories and fresh shades of blue and white.

The sitting room offers tranquil views out over the garden and was painted a rich green colour to connect with the outdoors. The dining room, located in the contemporary extension, is flooded with natural light.

The property required an update, including a new heating system and electrics. The re-configuration of the downstairs created a walk-through pantry area with old brick arches and attractive storage baskets. The utility and laundry room were created from the space previously occupied by the kitchen.

The sweeping driveway that leads up to the house was incorporated by Ali and Ben, adding to the grand first impression created by the flat-fronted facade and classic Georgian period windows.

Sara Emslie, an interiors and lifestyle journalist, author of two books on interior design, and a regular contributor to leading home interest magazines, penned the article. Andrea Childs, the editor, expertly guided the piece to its final form.

After living in their countryside home for 10 years, Ali and Ben decided it was time to find a bigger property. Their renovation project has transformed their new home into a beautiful and functional space, creating a warm and inviting environment for their family.

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