April Hamilton Interiors redesign magnificent Georgian Rectory

April Hamilton Interiors were asked to redesign The Old Rectory in Sussex, a magnificent Georgian property with later additions.  Whilst a total refurbishment was necessary, sympathetic restoration was required as the property was a Grade I listed building.

From installing the new heating and lighting system throughout to completing the schemes for thirty-three rooms and two out-buildings took little over seven moths.  April Hamilton’s interior designer, Rosemary Ridgway-Smith, was briefed to create five deliciously different bathrooms, from Art Deco to Victorian with French overtones and panelled walls (illustrated).

The drawing room was positively delightful; the panels were again reintroduced along with a beautiful English floral cornice to give the room its original historical flavour.  As the grounds were equally stunning a window seat was created, enabling one to fully appreciate the views beyond, whilst the second bay was dressed to accommodate the grand piano – a favourite pastime of the client’s accomplished daughters.

The basement presented the greatest challenge.  The existing arrangement of rooms was totally inadequate and various alterations had to be made.  A stunning cellar was to be created to accommodate the client’s superb collection of fine wines and ports, essential after one’s potted the black in the games room.

My particular favourite was the sitting room, the client had acquired the most wonderful Davenport and Rosie was to ensure its elevated position.  This she achieved with Colefax fabrics and Churchill styled sofas, the very essence of English countryside.  The room evoked an air of total relaxation, beckoning one to try the feather-filled cushions and a well-chosen book from the library across the hall.

Rosie Ridgway-Smith can be contacted at April Hamilton Interiors, The Design Studio, 1 Home Meadow, Holly Lane, Banstead Village, Surrey SM7 2DX.  Tel, 01737 371170