A 500-Year-Old Cottage Reimagined: A Journey through Time and Warmth
Moving into History
In March 2017, just two weeks before welcoming their first daughter, Jane Gowland and her family stepped into the rich history of their 500-year-old Bastle cottage. Originally constructed with thick stone walls for protection against raids, this cottage had been partially ruined and rebuilt about thirty years prior. "We got the keys nine months before moving in, so by the time we arrived, the house was warm and liveable, but there was still a lot of work to do," Jane recalls.
Embracing Classic English Design
With such an ancient and storied structure, Jane's aesthetic has evolved significantly. Moving away from stark whites, she now favors warmer palettes that resonate with the cottage's age. "I love homes that feel layered and collected, as if they've naturally evolved over time," she explains. Her inspiration comes from her grandparents' traditional English home, influencing recent renovations in the cloakroom and main bathroom where she introduced elements like a freestanding roll-top bath and bead panelling to blend rustic charm with sophisticated elegance. "I wanted to inject warmth and personality into what was previously a very cold, stark space," she shares.
The Art of Patience in Home Making
Five years on, with two young children and all DIY work done by the family, progress has been slow but meaningful. "It's been a learning curve," Jane admits, emphasizing how every decision, due to time constraints, has been quick but thoughtfully made. This approach has led to a more considered lifestyle, focusing on sustainability and quality over quantity. "Now, before anything enters the house, I ask if it's something we'd keep forever."
Treasured Pieces and Seasonal Charm
Among the treasures in their home, a large antique pine sideboard stands out, inherited from Jane's grandmother's shop. Newer additions include beautiful green velvet chairs from Cotswold Home Furniture, enhancing the British country style while offering a nod to the surrounding landscape. "The green really brings in the view of the rolling hills," Jane notes.
The cottage truly shines in winter, thanks to its thick walls and stone roof, creating a snug, comforting atmosphere. Yet, summer is when the house and its gardens come alive with sunlight and an array of seasonal flowers like cow parsley and foxgloves. "I'm big on decorating with the seasons," says Jane, excited about the upcoming blooms.
The Heart of the Home
The dining area, with its extendable stone table in front of a log-burning stove, serves as the family's gathering spot for everything from crafts to celebrations. "This spot feels like the heart of our home," Jane reflects, highlighting its versatility and the warmth it provides during family gatherings.
Creating Home through the Senses
For the Gowlands, home is about comfort and relaxation, achieved through engaging the five senses - from the sounds of laughter and music to the feel of quality materials and the scent of candles burning. "It's these sensory details that make a house truly feel like a home," concludes Jane, as she looks forward to adding more layers of color, pattern, and personal touches to their evolving space.
This journey of transforming an ancient cottage into a modern, yet timeless family home showcases how patience, heritage, and a keen eye for design can create a living space that is not just seen but felt.
