Set within a village setting in Oxfordshire, this stone-built cottage retained much of its original character, including exposed beams and substantial hearths, but required a careful and comprehensive refurbishment. The brief was to restore clarity to the layout while improving light, flow and connection to the garden.
Later additions were removed to reveal and celebrate the cottage’s original fabric. Exposed stonework and timber details now sit alongside contemporary kitchen and bathroom interventions, introducing a calm, functional layer to the historic interior. Spatial adjustments create a more coherent plan and a stronger relationship between inside and out.
Bespoke joinery by Barr Joinery and a restrained interior palette by Lara Clarke Interiors support a balanced approach to old and new. The completed scheme delivers a considered upgrade of the original cottage, complemented by a new swimming pool, resulting in a comfortable, well-resolved family home.
Situated on the fringe of a picturesque Oxfordshire village, Asher House is typical of the local stone-built properties that characterise the area, but it was ready for a fresh start. We designed a sympathetic upgrade and refurbishment to create a characterful, restful home with an improved connection to the outdoor space.
We stripped back more recent additions to the cottage, exposing and showcasing its original character and establishing a lighter-feeling interior with a better flow. Original stonework and timber details were complemented by stylish kitchen and bathroom installations that make a design statement without overwhelming the overall effect.
Asher House is a perfect example of how a characterful home can be transformed into a comfortable, modern family living space without compromising its authentic charm. Exquisite joinery from Barr Group complements the contemporary cottage palette provided by Lara Clarke Interiors, making this a cosy home for family holidays.
For this award-winning cottage garden, we created a series of distinct areas that unfold as you move through the space, each evoking a unique ambiance.
The planting design uses broad drifts of Salvia through mixed perennial borders to establish a soft, textural base that adds gentle movement. To complement this, a carefully selected palette of cosmos, roses, helenium, and dahlias provides vibrant highlights of colour throughout the summer months. The scheme is elegantly structured with classic English garden favourites, including fragrant wisteria, persicaria, and lavender, creating a thoughtful and evolving landscape.
Listed & Heritage
Renovations
Architecture
Landscape Design
Oxfordshire
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