RISING TO THE CHALLENGE
Despite swearing not to take on a fixer-upper, Helen and Paul Jackson took the plunge
Despite their initial reluctance to take on a project, this pair’s renovation of a house in Buckinghamshire has proved to be a success
Having outgrown their chocolate-box semi-detached cottage, interior designer Helen Jackson was adamant the next family home would not be a building project. ‘With two children and busy lives, my husband Paul and I were determined to find a house we could move straight into, with the minimum of fuss,’ recalls Helen. ‘I love things to be neat and tidy, and the prospect of messy building work filled me with dread.’
However, best-laid plans often go awry, and in 2016, after hunting for a property in Buckinghamshire, and drawing a complete blank, Helen realised the only answer was confronting her fears. ‘We were very attached to our historic cottage and knew it would be hard to find anything that compared,’ says Helen. After many viewings, only one property held any appeal. ‘This thatched house ticked many boxes, including a large garden for Isaac, now 11, and Emilia, seven, to enjoy,’ says Helen. ‘Despite its tranquil location and wonderful views, I was worried. A renovation on this scale would be a massive project, and we agreed it wasn’t for us.’
Months later the situation took a U-turn when a visit from Paul’s parents coincided with an open weekend at the thatched house. Viewing the property with a more open mind, as three generations of Jacksons strolled from room to room, obstacles were replaced with opportunities. ‘We realised that some short-term inconvenience would result in the fantastic family home that was proving so elusive,’ says Helen.
After discussing how to reconfigure the property, Helen and Paul decided to take the plunge. They then contacted an architect to discuss how they could convert their plans into reality. ‘Paul and I agreed that repositioning walls on the ground floor and incorporating Crittall doors in the sitting room would inject more light and improve the flow,’ says Helen. ‘Plus, building out at the back would create a new utility room and enlarge the kitchen.’
After moving in during February 2017, while waiting for planning permission for the ground-floor alterations, work began. The black beams were stripped and, on the first floor, the bedrooms were decorated and bathrooms replaced. ‘When the structural work started, I remember thinking it looked as if a bomb had gone off,’ says Helen.
Over the next few months, the Jacksons and the builders worked tirelessly, bringing their vision to fruition within just six months. A new kitchen, including an Aga, was installed, followed by a loft conversion. A bespoke staircase was added, too, and by the end of August, the project was complete.
‘It was really hard work,’ recalls Helen. ‘We stayed in a holiday cottage for only three weeks, and for the rest of the time, we were living in the house. I became project manager and had to make endless decisions.’
When it came to colours, Helen chose a muted palette, and added impact with bold feature walls and striking wallpapers. This attention to detail has culminated in a stunning home.
‘We all love our thatched home and the rambling garden,’ says Helen. ‘We’re enjoying making precious memories here.’