I’ve always believed there’s a big difference between a space that feels strictly “designed” and one that feels genuinely curated. On a recent trip to England, I spent a few days at Heckfield Place—a restored Georgian estate in Hampshire—and it completely redefined how I think about classic country style.
Instead of feeling like a rigid historic period piece, the whole property feels like a grand, private home that has evolved beautifully over time (a pillar of my design philosophy). It’s the ultimate expression of a fresh traditional aesthetic: respecting the historic architecture while layering in modern art, clever function, and incredibly thoughtful details. From the moment you arrive and see through to the grounds and read the handwritten activities board, you know you are in for a truly personal experience.
A Sanctuary of Texture
Our guest room was a dream, and honestly, I wanted to pack up every single thing and bring it home with me. The walls are a mix of tongue and groove paneling and plaster in a beautiful color that reminds me of Benjamin Moore’s Whisp of Mauve. It feels peaceful, warm, and serves as the perfect updated neutral backdrop.
Wide wood floorboards ground the room and set the scene for the gorgeous woven wood headboard, lux sheets and a pretty, wool herringbone throw at the end of the bed. To bring in that signature cozy-yet-refined feel, the floors were layered with a mix of tactile jute and fringed wool rugs.
Every designer can spot great architectural lighting and the guest room lighting is highly intentional. There are many settings to choose from for both the bathroom and the bedroom and the light work seamlessly into the design ceiling design. Two perfectly scaled mid-century and ceramic lamps add a perfect sculptural note. My favorite spot? Sitting in one of the two comfy armchairs by the open doors, looking out at the historic clock tower with its beautiful weather vane spinning in the breeze.
It’s All About the Functional Little Details!
As a designer who loves specialized cabinetry, the custom drinks cabinet in our room blew me away. It features clever pull-out drawers designed specifically to hold loose-leaf tea, a curated selection of glassware, and beautiful ceramic mugs. They even include a dedicated, hidden place to put your spent coffee grounds. It just proves that functionality doesn’t have to compromise beauty—it can actually enhance it.
Unwinding & Exploring the Grounds
When we weren’t relaxing in the room, we were wandering around the incredible estate. Strolling through the walled garden was a highlight along with having tea and cake on the back patio. The absolute most charming space has to be the boot room. It’s lined with rows of black Wellington boots in every single size imaginable, just waiting for guests to gear up and go for a walk.
Hockfield Place is a perfect example of how amazing design, respecting the architecture, and embracing nature can create an unforgettable experience. I left feeling totally recharged and with a million new design ideas buzzing in my head!
Stay tuned—I loved the design of the property’s bar and common spaces so much, they are getting a dedicated post of their own very soon! In the meantime, how do you feel about using a warm, unexpected shade like mauve as a neutral base? Let’s chat in the comments!
Resource Guide:
- Hotel: @heckfieldplace
- Design Inspiration: Fresh Traditional / Shaker-inspired utility / Organic textures
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