OXFORDSHIRE FARMHOUSE

LOUISE AND NIGEL JOHNSON REVIVED AN OLD FARMHOUSE TO CREATE A DREAM HOME WITH BUCOLIC OUTDOOR SPACES

Built on the site of a medieval monastery, this home retains stunning architectural features

Even though it had been a cherished family home and working farm for five generations, the house Louise and Nigel Johnson now call home had not been lived in for seven years and was ‘rather sad’ when they first saw it. Still, they knew and loved the area and were looking for more space for their growing family and a larger plot for Louise to create the garden she’d always dreamed of.

The house stands on the site of what had once been a medieval monastery, and the couple were instantly taken by its charm. The monastery had been pulled down in the 16th century, but the original gothic entrance was retained when a new property was built on the site. Over the centuries, other elements were added, which contributed to the eclectic feel the house now has.

It was this rich history that Louise and Nigel drew upon when they set about turning the house into their family home, uncovering and restoring architectural features rather than changing them. Before they could start, however, complete rewiring, re-plumbing and new floorboards were needed throughout.

‘We opened blocked-up windows and repaired the stone mullions and glass,’ says Louise. ‘Plus, we needed all new bathrooms and a kitchen.’ The couple also added, as part of the renovations, a stunning oak garden room.

When decorating, they kept the palette simple, playing

‘That it’s within a great village yet backs on to lovely Cotswold countryside. It truly is the best of both worlds’ What we love most about living here…

‘Open fireplaces, soft Cotswold stone and the way the house comes alive in summer’ What makes this house a home…

to the strength and beauty of the Cotswold stone, wooden floors and stunning features. Louise drew her inspiration from various sources: the surrounding countryside and from her extensive travels, for family holidays as well as for buying trips seeking out artisan products for Burford Garden Company, which she runs with Nigel. ‘We’ve used rugs and textiles from India, Turkey and Scotland, and I love France for its great style,’ she says.

As an art historian, Nigel is a great collector of vintage pieces, which sit comfortably in the house, and his eye for architectural detail is impressive. ‘It really makes a difference – some pieces look like they have been here for hundreds of years,’ says Louise.

The large garden is a real joy for Louise. She has created a series of spaces, including a wildlife pond, a kitchen garden and a contemplative circle of hornbeam; all from the rough wilderness that had surrounded the house. There are also plans for a flower meadow.

This is the 13th house that Louise and Nigel have renovated, and perhaps the most satisfying, drawing to them all that is special in their lives. ‘We live in a unique part of the world and it informs how we run the business and incorporate our shared interests into our home,’ Louise says. ‘So art, literature, food and gardens are entwined in both. I like a relaxed, easy home – and that is what we have made here.’

Bedroom Distressed pieces echo the rustic beams. Bedside table, Alfies Antique Market. Cushion, Bluebellgray. Quilt, La Redoute.

Drawing room When not in use, the original stone fireplace is filled decoratively with logs. Poppies painting, Rupert Aker.

Bathroom A claw-foot bath and pedestal basin with console legs add charm. The vintage mirror came from France. Basin, bath, Bathroom City. Floor tiles, Fired Earth.

Living room This cosy space across from the kitchen has a modern feel and is where the family like to gather. The painting is by daughter Eleanor. Lights, similar from Burford Garden Company. Rug, Heal’s.

Drawing room Evidence of Louise and Nigel’s travels can be seen throughout the house. The rug in this welcoming room came from Turkey. Walls, painted in Pointing by Farrow & Ball. Sofa, similar from Sofas & Stuff.

House The mellow Cotswold stone farmhouse glows in the summer sunshine. Planters, Burford Garden Company.

Kitchen A palette of pastel shades gives a soft yet modern look to the beamed room. Walls, painted in Pointing; central island, painted in Pale Powder, both by Farrow & Ball. Pendants, Terre d’hautaniboul.

Garden (Opposite) Close to the kitchen is the perfect spot for eating outdoors. (This page) Bespoke oak doors, made by a local joiner to fit the gothic arch, open onto the side garden. Cushion, Bluebellgray. Garden furniture, Burford Garden Company....

Walled garden Louise cuts flowers from the abundant borders in her pretty walled garden to make arrangements for the house.