make the most of its picturesque setting

A breath of FRESH AIR

lessons learnt ‘It’s better to wait and only buy things for your home that you truly love. Less is more’

KITCHEN-DINER The combination of slick modern design with traditional features has worked particularly well in this multipurpose space. Cabinets, price on request, Paul Deakin Furniture. Ikea’s Glenn bar stool, £50, is a similar style. Try Neptune’s Sheldrake dining chairs, £345 each

Having a chance conversation at a village fête persuaded Anna Cox that moving to the Oxfordshire countryside was a great idea. ‘I’m forever grateful to Teya, as the first time we met, she convinced me that the Cotswolds, and in particular this area, was perfect for a young family,’ says Anna. While searching for a home, Anna and her now ex-husband rented a cottage in

Gloucestershire. ‘Originally we lived in

London but decided to move out of the city when we had Alfie,’ says Anna. ‘We looked at over 20 houses before finding this one. I have rejected properties in the past, before I’ve even walked through the door because I didn’t get a good “feeling”. The approach to this house was immediately appealing, and we both felt it showed great promise.’

The charming 17th-century property had beautiful period detailing, and with some rethinking, could be transformed into a fantastic home. ‘We loved its old features, especially the stone mullion windows, and while it was dated and dark, it had potential to be very light,’ says Anna. ‘It was going to be our first major project and we were very excited.’ Purchasing the house in 2012, the family spent the next two years on the renovation, while continuing to live in rented accommodation, and in 2014 they moved into their new home.

The main job was installing the new kitchen. Walls were taken down in the middle of the house to open up the space. Anna chose contemporary, streamlined

25bh

country

BEDROOM Blue and white is a classic pairing that won’t date. Sail Stripe, £11.95m, Just Fabrics, is a similar curtain material. Try The Cotswold Company’s Burford bed, £299

BEDROOM Pastel hues create a subtle and sophisticated scheme. The Cotswold Company’s upholstered bed, from £399, has this look. Armchair in Rabanna, £120m, Fermoie MASTER BEDROOM The mother of pearl chest brings standout style to this otherwise understated space. Oliver Bonas’ Lohko chest of drawers, £845, is similar. Try the X-Bench, Jonathan Alder, £745

BATHROOM A roll-top bath and pretty florals add traditional charm. The Dulwich bath, from £459, Victoria Plum, is a good choice. For similar curtain fabric, look at Agnes Red, £85m, Kate Forman

last word

‘I look forward to going back to my home every time I leave itÕ

cabinets to bring a contrast to the old oak beams. A light stone floor in the kitchen and dining area creates continuity and a greater feeling of space. ‘The main staircase runs off the kitchen, so it is possible for Alfie, now 13 and Josh, nine, to hear me when they are in their bedrooms on the top floor,’ says Anna.

Upstairs, small rooms were remodelled to make a large master bedroom and guest bedrooms with en suites. White walls give a clean, streamlined feel, enabling Anna to introduce colour and texture from her own range of soft furnishings. ‘I started Anna Cox Home a few years ago selling cushions, throws and rugs from Morocco,’ she says. ‘I love vibrant tones and stripes because they are so versatile, and they sit well with both modern and traditional interiors.’

Anna’s eye for detail and appreciation for contemporary and classic design have produced a stylish and comfortable home. ‘I really enjoyed devising the schemes and sourcing pieces for each room,’ she says. ‘One of my passions is good storage and I’ve incorporated as many cupboards and shelves as possible, along with vintage blanket boxes and chests of drawers, bought locally.’

A desire for life in the country has proven successful for Anna and her family. ‘We enjoy being close to open fields and the boys and I only have a three-minute school run,’ says Anna. ‘I also like the easy access to London for work and for catching up with friends before heading back home. It may have taken a long time to find a property, but the search was well worth it.’