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Interior Design: Olivia Sutcliffe Consultancy & Emma Kirby Design

Architect: Blake Architects in conjunction with Emma Kirby Design

Kitchens: Evie Willow

Swimming Pool: Clearwater Pools

Project Manager: Olivia Sutcliffe Consultancy

Photography: Veerle Evans

Emma Kirby Design has brilliantly reimagined a traditional Cotswold farmstead, converting a stone barn and a Dutch barn, adding an infinity swimming pool, and extending and renovating a farmhouse. The project, designed for a family seeking a comfortable and relaxed weekend retreat, has created a stunning haven where parents and their three adult sons can gather, enjoy shared leisure facilities, and have independent accommodations.

The heart of this transformation is the renovated and extended farmhouse, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, an orchard, and paddocks. This traditional Cotswold home offers a tranquil and generous space for the extended family. Further accommodations are provided in two converted stone barns, thoughtfully clustered around the former farmyard to maintain the farmstead’s original charm.

A standout feature of the project is the conversion of a steel-framed Dutch barn. This structure now houses shared leisure facilities, including a large party space on the first floor. Expansive glazed doors open onto a raised terrace with an infinity pool, offering breathtaking views over the picturesque Cotswold countryside. The ground floor boasts a small home cinema, gym, spa facilities, and changing rooms for the pool and the discreet all-weather tennis court, which is seamlessly integrated into the garden.

Emma Kirby Design’s approach is characterized by restraint, preserving the traditional Grade II listed structures as much as possible. The design celebrates original features and simple vernacular materials, such as warm honey-colored Cotswold rubblestone walls, timeworn limestone flagstones, rich oak floorboards, and soft limewashed plaster. These elements are complemented by functional steel Crittall-style windows and exposed structural steelwork, blending old-world charm with contemporary functionality.

Developed in collaboration with Cotswold-based Blake Architects, this imaginative reuse of existing redundant farm buildings has successfully retained their intrinsic character and charm. Emma Kirby Design has not only created a luxurious and comfortable retreat but also ensured the farmstead’s historical essence is preserved for future generations to enjoy.