Rebecca Hughes, an esteemed interior designer, has crafted a serene and characterful Norfolk home, Old Oaks Hall, that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern elegance. Her design philosophy revolves around creating a sense of discovery and calm, drawing inspiration from the surrounding bucolic landscape. The project's essence lies in the harmonious fusion of unexpected patterns, a restrained color palette, and heritage details, resulting in a richly layered aesthetic.
One of the key aspects of the design is the emphasis on conversational spaces. The kitchen, for instance, is designed to be a hub where family life, cooking, gathering, and entertaining converge. This is achieved through the use of a kitchen island and a floral sofa, creating natural areas for conversation. The addition of Zellige tiles on the walls further enhances the texture and interest of the space.
The color palette chosen by Rebecca is a reflection of the countryside, featuring earthy greens, soft blues, and serene neutrals. This palette evokes a sense of calm and tranquility, while contrast is introduced through richly layered fabrics, natural wood, and heritage details. Oak furniture, wool, and floral prints on upholstery and wallpaper add warmth and a touch of English country style.
The bedrooms, particularly the guest bedrooms, exude a boutique hotel feel with quietly luxurious details. The owners, avid hosts, wanted to combine the comforts of home with the luxurious touches of a boutique hotel, such as dressing gowns, slippers, and notepads in every bedroom. This attention to detail extends to the use of outdoor fabrics indoors, adding robustness and texture to the spaces.
Rebecca's design philosophy also involves embracing pattern without overwhelming the senses. She introduces patterned sofas in the kitchen and full wraparound wallpapers in the dining room, creating a sense of zoning and drawing people into the conversational areas. Styling ideas, such as displaying plates over the door frame, further enhance the inviting atmosphere.
The project showcases tonal layering, where design elements are mixed and matched to create a cohesive and definitive interior style. Visual Comfort pendant lights sit alongside antique pieces, Lewis & Wood wallpapers, Guy Goodfellow fabrics, and works by local artists. This approach helps clients discover their own style and creates an emotional connection to the space.
One of the most memorable spaces in the property is the children's bunk room, which features a whimsical 'magical' den area and bespoke window treatments. The room is both practical and playful, with a secret den area hidden in the eaves, designed to delight and inspire.
Looking ahead, Rebecca is currently working on the second phase of the project, converting a listed former livestock barn into a cool glorified pub, complete with a tech-filled games room, an outdoor kitchen, and a multifunctional living space. The project also includes a pool house on site, which is ripe for a refresh. Rebecca's work continues to inspire and excite the owners, who are embracing their new life with enthusiasm and a sense of connection.
