Exploring this Buckinghamshire home that is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity
Nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, Oak House is a striking five-bedroom detached home that masterfully balances traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Built in 2006 using a traditional Wealden house frame, the property is a modern interpretation of Tudor architecture, featuring grand proportions and a meticulous attention to detail. With its expansive oak beams, intricate metalwork, and stunning countryside views, Oak House presented an exciting design challenge – one that Claire Garner Design Studio approached with sensitivity, skill, and an innate understanding of how to create a warm, inviting family home.
A Home with Character and Charm
The homeowners, a family of four, purchased Oak House in 2018 after previously living in a nearby rural village. From the moment they stepped inside, they were captivated by the rich warmth of the exposed oak beams and the home’s distinct architectural presence. What particularly appealed to them was the layout – a series of well-defined spaces that allowed for both entertaining and individual retreat, rather than the more conventional open-plan living concept.
Initially brought on board to design the master bedroom, Claire Garner Design Studio quickly became an integral part of shaping the entire home’s interior, refining the spatial flow and design to better reflect the family’s lifestyle and aspirations.
A Design Approach Rooted in Authenticity
The design brief was simple yet significant: to create a home that felt calming, welcoming, and seamlessly integrated with the house’s existing features. The homeowners placed a strong emphasis on functionality, needing spaces that could cater to their busy family life while maintaining a refined aesthetic. Claire Garner and her team approached the project with a collaborative mindset, working closely with the homeowners to ensure each design decision complemented their daily routines.
Respecting the house’s original materials was paramount. Rather than overshadowing the stunning oak framework, the design team sought to enhance and uplift these natural elements. This was achieved through a carefully curated palette of warm neutrals, layered textures, and thoughtfully placed lighting to create a sense of depth and cohesion throughout the home.
Transforming Spaces with Thoughtful Details
Among the stand-out transformations was the kitchen, a space that initially felt dark and in need of revitalisation. Rather than undertaking a full remodel, the studio opted for a more sustainable approach, working with the original kitchen manufacturer to update and modify the existing structure. Lighter countertops were introduced to reflect natural light, while additional wall lighting and a shaded pendant over the newly created breakfast nook softened the ambiance. The travertine flooring, rich in texture and history, remained unchanged, allowing the new design elements to work harmoniously with the original materials.
The entrance hall, a breathtaking double-height space with a wraparound landing, was another area where scale and proportion played a critical role. A custom-designed open-metalwork pendant light was introduced, drawing the eye upward and tying together the intricate detailing found throughout the home. This bespoke piece became a visual anchor, echoing the craftsmanship evident in the home’s exterior ironwork and seamlessly integrating with the broader design narrative.
Downstairs, the cinema and games room was a completely new addition. Previously an undefined basement space, Claire Garner Design Studio reimagined it as a cosy yet sophisticated retreat. A darker, more dramatic colour palette was chosen to create an intimate atmosphere, contrasting beautifully with the lighter tones found elsewhere in the home. Plush seating, soft textiles, and tailored lighting added layers of comfort, making it an inviting haven for family movie nights and entertaining guests.
A Palette Inspired by Nature
One of the most compelling aspects of the design is its connection to the surrounding landscape. Inspired by the rolling countryside and lush garden views, the interiors are imbued with a sense of tranquillity. The master bedroom, for instance, incorporates soft green tones that mirror the foliage outside, creating a restful and rejuvenating environment. Elsewhere, warm neutrals dominate, creating a cohesive thread that unites each space while allowing individual rooms to maintain their own character.
The clever use of metalwork further enhances the home’s sense of continuity. Subtle yet deliberate references to the property’s exterior iron detailing appear throughout the interiors, from the handcrafted sideboard in the entrance hall to the elegant lighting fixtures that punctuate each space. These elements subtly reinforce the home’s architectural integrity, ensuring that old and new coexist in perfect harmony.
Challenges and Creative Solutions
One of the biggest challenges was ensuring that the oak beams remained a focal point without dictating an overly rustic style. The solution lay in striking the right balance between texture, tone, and proportion. Upholstered furniture, soft linen drapes and carefully selected performance fabrics helped to counterbalance the harder materials, introducing a sense of warmth and modernity.
Another key consideration was integrating the homeowners’ existing pieces into the new scheme. A hallway dresser, for example, was given a fresh lease of life with a coat of paint that aligned with the new colour palette, demonstrating how even small updates can contribute to a unified design vision.
A Home Designed to Evolve
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of this project was the relationship forged between designer and client. What began as a single-room brief evolved into an ongoing collaboration, with the homeowners repeatedly turning to Claire Garner Design Studio for guidance as they continued to refine their home. This gradual approach allowed the family to experience and appreciate each space as it was completed, reinforcing the sense of comfort and belonging that the design had set out to achieve.
Reflecting on the project, Claire Garner shares her top tip for creating a successful interior scheme: “The key is to be clear on how you want the space to feel and function. Prioritise elements that align with your lifestyle, and take inspiration from artwork or environments that uplift you. Cohesion doesn’t mean uniformity – each room should have its own character while still feeling like part of a greater whole.”
A Lasting Impression
Oak House stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design – one that respects heritage while embracing modern living. Through careful material selection, a subtle approach to colour, and an unwavering focus on how the home should feel, Claire Garner Design Studio has crafted a space that is both timeless and deeply personal. More than just a house, Oak House is a true family home, where every element tells a story, and every room invites connection, comfort, and joy.
Interior designed by Claire Garner Design Studio, see more at clairegarner.com
Photography: Sarah Grigg
