A Classic Update

“We wanted to make choices that didn’t date”, says Mrs Valentine of the Oxfordshire home that her and her family have renovated since purchasing it two and a half years ago.

Mrs Valentine’s home is a former farm house, situated in the midst of acres of farmland, “the house was red brick, somewhat dated looking and in need of an overall update; I did feel a little apologetic to the farmers for changing their house!”

The project was a substantial undertaking, meaning the family lived in the annexe of the property for 15 months while the work was carried out, “we wanted to achieve a classic look, that was sympathetic to the house, its setting and history.”

“I had a project that Timber Windows had been involved in, saved on my Pinterest, as this provided the inspiration for what I was aiming for.”

The family opted for a timeless finish with cottage flush casement windows, an entrance door, French doors and a stable door in a dual colour finish; ‘French Grey’ externally and ‘Off-White’ internally.

The homeowners described the house as robust and having good proportions, allowing for a sympathetic refurbishment that also involved extending the living areas along with the roofline for a third floor. It is on this new upper floor that the French doors have been put to great use on the Juliet balcony. The next stage in their project is to convert the annexe, giving it a barn appearance. 

“Our aim has been to retain traditional styling, while adapting it to contemporary living, with the windows and doors playing a major role in both the appearance and our enjoyment of our home” Mrs Valentine concludes.