A Masterclass in Regency Design and Thoughtful Country House Restoration.

Christopher Cooke

Jan 143 min read

Updated: Jan 20

Elegant manor house with numerous windows, surrounded by lush lawn and trees under a clear blue sky, conveying a serene mood.

Authored by Christopher Cooke

A country house restoration nestled in the Hampshire countryside, Bighton House stands as a beacon of late-Regency architectural elegance, effortlessly harmonizing with its surrounding landscape. This fine country house is not just a residence but a celebration of how sensitive refurbishment can breathe life into historic properties, preserving their architectural significance for generations to come.

When the current owners acquired Bighton House 19 years ago, the property had already undergone restoration but lacked the character befitting its graceful proportions. The initial work, led by architect Philip, focused on restoring dignity and respect to the house by addressing prior alterations and reintroducing lost architectural elements. This was not about reverting the property to its original state but creating a home that is both historically respectful and comfortable for modern living.

Restoring Dignity Through Design.

One of the most transformative changes was replacing an ungainly service staircase with a graceful new design by Philip, installed by Chesneys’ architectural division. The staircase’s elegant lines have redefined the ground floor’s character, setting the tone for the rest of the house. Builders RW Armstrong contributed extensively, handling bathrooms, joinery, and additional construction work.

Elegant spiral staircase with black railing, beige steps, large chandelier, and a statue on the wall. Bright natural light through a window.

Attention to Detail in Every Room

The dining room, for instance, underwent significant changes to address its proportions. A dado rail and raised panelling were introduced, complemented by a new oak floor. Velvet wall coverings in a stream-water green add a contemporary yet timeless touch, coming alive under candlelight. The windows are adorned with luxurious festoon blinds, while a fine Ziegler carpet anchors the space.

In the drawing room, another Ziegler carpet takes center stage, accompanied by curtains inspired by John Fowler’s iconic designs. The walls, painted in a soft putty hue, provide a warm backdrop for the art collection. These subtle design choices exemplify Philip’s instinctive use of color to create harmony and flow throughout the house.

Elegant dining room with a white-clothed table set with floral arrangements, candelabras, and crystal glasses. Ornate mirrors and chandelier.

A Family Home with Functional Elegance

The informal spaces, including the kitchen, breakfast room, and orangery, showcase the owners’ love of panelling. These rooms balance practicality with character, ensuring they serve as welcoming family spaces. Upstairs, the bedrooms reflect similar attention to detail. In the main bedroom, Philip tackled its large proportions by installing a substantial bed and dressing it with layered airy patterns. The walls are fabric-covered, and the curtains feature embroidered pelmets and borders, creating a serene yet striking environment.

Elegant dining room with open doors to a garden. Black iron chandelier and chairs, lush greenery, lilac flowers, and bright natural light.

Gardens as an Extension of the Home

The gardens, designed over several years by Xa Tollemache with pavilions by George Carter, extend the house’s elegance into the outdoors. The walled garden features water elements, wisteria tunnels, roses, and clipped box borders, embodying the owners’ passion for horticulture. Collaboration between the owners and designers has resulted in a garden that evolves while remaining true to its roots.

Lush garden with colorful flowers and trimmed hedges, leading to a brick archway with stone spheres, set amid tall green trees.

Timeless Design Principles

Throughout Bighton House, timelessness is a guiding principle. The classical bathrooms, for instance, are designed to endure changing tastes, ensuring they remain untouched even as other rooms are redecorated. Similarly, the spare bedrooms embrace contemporary elements without losing their connection to the house’s Regency character. Philip’s philosophy shines in the cohesive yet dynamic interiors, where every element, from furniture placement to color palettes, contributes to the overall rhythm of the house. This thoughtful approach ensures that each room feels part of a larger, harmonious scheme.

Elegant room with an archway, portrait, and antique vase. Bookshelf and table with purple flowers in background. Classic, cozy atmosphere.

Inspiring Future Restorations

Bighton House serves as an inspiring case study for refurbishing historic country houses. By respecting the original architecture while addressing modern needs, it demonstrates how these homes can retain their significance and charm for years to come. The success of this project lies in the close collaboration between the owners, architect, and craftsmen, highlighting the importance of shared vision and meticulous attention to detail.