The English Country House | The Enduring Allure of the Cotswolds
Most recently, the Cotswolds made headlines with the news that Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are selling their home in the Cotswolds for a reported £22.5 million, with Sotheby’s handling the sale. The region has also been the backdrop for several high-profile visits and events, from Kourtney Kardashian holidaying there just a few weeks ago and sharing a glimpse with her 217 million–strong Instagram following, to the lavish wedding of Bill Gates’ daughter.
So, what is it about this historic region that continues to capture such enduring attention? At Oliver Burns Studio, we see the Cotswolds not simply as a location but as a way of life, one that blends heritage, tranquillity and quiet sophistication. In our work designing homes in this remarkable setting, we seek to honour its architectural legacy while thoughtfully tailoring each space to reflect the lifestyle and sensibilities of our client.
DESIGNING WITH CHARACTER AND HERITAGE
At Oliver Burns Studio, we have the pleasure of designing some of the finest residences, each with its own unique narrative brought to life through an array of exquisite design details. When working with properties in the Cotswolds, their charm and style range from stately Tudor and Georgian manor houses and grand estates to modern farmhouses, and sleek contemporary barn conversions.
Drawing on our experience restoring heritage properties, we understand how original features tell a story and root a space in its history. In our Cotswolds Barn project, for example, we carefully preserved and celebrated original elements such as exposed oak beams, stonewalls, and period fireplaces, seamlessly blending them with modern comforts. This balance of old and new is essential to creating homes that feel authentic, timeless, and characterful.
WELLNESS AND LIFESTYLE
The Cotswolds lifestyle is as much about wellbeing and community as it is about design. Exclusive members’ clubs like Soho Farmhouse and Estelle Manor have redefined country living by offering spaces that nurture rest, connection, and creativity. We take inspiration from this ethos when designing homes, incorporating wellness-focused elements such as circadian-aligned lighting, restful sleep environments, calming materials, and spaces designed for relaxation but also to foster connection which in turn supports physical and mental wellbeing.
CELEBRATING CRAFTSMANSHIP WITH LOCAL ARTISANS
As true advocates of British craftsmanship, we value the many local artisans in the Cotswolds who bring exceptional skill and embody the region’s rich tradition of craft. From hand-carved joinery to bespoke ironmongery and hand-thrown ceramics, these collaborations create new narratives when redesigning a home. By prioritising craftsmanship, we ensure that every detail, no matter how small, contributes to the story and tactile richness of the home.
CURATING COLLECTIONS THAT TELL A STORY
A home in the Cotswolds should feel collected rather than curated, achieved by sourcing antiques, heirlooms, and bespoke pieces that reflect the clients personal passions. Our styling is always purposeful, thoughtfully selecting each object, artwork, and textile to create a sense of warmth and lived-in comfort. This considered approach is particularly suited to properties in the area, where every corner offers visual interest and invites you to relax and truly admire your surroundings.
ROOMS THAT INVITE RELAXATION
Our design approach focuses on balance between texture, light, and form, with careful attention to how spaces will be experienced day-to-day. Whether it’s a cosy reading nook bathed in morning light or a dining area designed for family gatherings, every detail is tailored to how our clients live in their homes. The result is a space that is not only beautiful but also deeply personal.
DESIGN AROUND THE LANDSCAPE, FRAMING WITH THOUGHTFULARCHITECTURE
The Cotswolds’ gently rolling landscape is one of its greatest assets. We work closely with architects who design with the home and landscape as one, bringing the outside in. This approach not only captures views of the surrounding countryside but also fosters a feeling of calm and a deep connection to nature.
SUBTLE, WARM COLOUR PALETTES
Inspired by the Cotswolds landscape, our palettes and mood boards incorporate earthy hues such as soft greens, warm neutrals, and muted blues. These colours create a serene backdrop and enhance the natural materials within the home. They also ensure interiors age gracefully, echoing the timeless quality of the region.
As Christmas approaches, London’s streets come alive with festive displays, offering brands the opportunity to showcase their unique take on seasonal magic. Beyond the decorations, our city’s cultural calendar also has much to offer, with exhibitions, performances, and celebrations adding to the atmosphere. From iconic collaborations to immersive exhibitions, there’s no shortage of inspiration. In this edition of OBS Musings, we’ve rounded up some of the stories that have caught our attention, hoping to spark your imagination this December.
As Christmas approaches, London’s streets come alive with festive displays, offering brands the opportunity to showcase their unique take on seasonal magic. Beyond the decorations, our city’s cultural calendar also has much to offer, with exhibitions, performances, and celebrations adding to the atmosphere. From iconic collaborations to immersive exhibitions, there’s no shortage of inspiration. In this edition of OBS Musings, we’ve rounded up some of the stories that have caught our attention, hoping to spark your imagination this December.
We are delighted to have launched our new brand identity. In OB Musings Edition No.3 we take a look behind the scenes.
We are delighted to have launched our new brand identity. In OB Musings Edition No.3 we take a look behind the scenes.
Celebrated as the ‘age of elegance’, the Georgian era is the backdrop for Netflix’s sumptuous series Bridgerton.
Celebrated as the ‘age of elegance’, the Georgian era is the backdrop for Netflix’s sumptuous series Bridgerton.