The Washington, Connecticut Farmhouse was a restoration of a historic, colonial-era farmhouse built in 1783. The house had been sensitively enlarged and restored around 1900 by a noted Connecticut architect Richard Dana. The project brief was to again restore the house while retaining as much historic fabric of the structure as possible. The building was completely taken apart down to the post-and-beam oak structure. Then it was carefully reassembled to incorporate energy-efficient systems, windows, and insulation. The interior plan was modified to create more flexible and open living space, but retaining quirky features such as three existing staircases. A modestly-scaled addition was added to the north facing facade to contain a new kitchen. The original massive brick chimney was restored to working condition, including a wood fired brick beehive oven in the great room. Original wood floors were retained in all spaces where they were extant, and supplemented by carefully selected reclaimed oak. ERA restored the original doors, hardware, paneling, trim, wainscoting and added new details to harmonize with the old. The interiors are a layered and cozy mixture of antiques collected by the owners, with new and vintage furniture sourced by ERA.
PLEASE could my next home be a historical farmhouse with character like this absolute beauty?! This is so wonderfully restored with so much of its history seeping through….it could not be more inviting. Photos: William Jess Laird.

Set amidst the picturesque countryside of East England, this charming farmhouse is an exciting, ongoing project we’re delighted to be undertaking with our wonderful clients. Based overseas, they sought us out to design and deliver a home rich with character and warmth, where each room flows seamlessly into the next, while honouring the property’s architectural heritage. Spanning three floors, this long, narrow property showcases elements from different historical periods, all brimming with unique features and character. Our clients collaborated with a local architectural firm to sensitively restore the farmhouse, transforming it into a 21st-century retreat that comfortably accommodates their young family and allows for entertaining when they’re in the UK. Our vision for this home is to create a classic feel without formality—lifting the heavy woodwork and original beams with vibrant colours and charming patterns that bring a sense of joy and warmth.
This home is overflowing with English vibes, whimsy and so many pretty colours and patterns! Perfect for a Suffolk farmhouse getaway with its beautiful architectural elements. Designed by Sean Symington.

I was sold on this château as soon as I got to the kitchen photo. The facade is a bit institution-like but with proper landscaping this could be really beautiful when you drive up. And the interior doesn’t seem to need much work. The listing has a very long description that you can read here. But in essence it is 1400 m² on 4.74 ha with 36 rooms, including 13 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. For sale for €1,590,000 via Cabinet Le Nail.  

This four story Victorian home in Oxford had once been a boarding house for a local school. At some point it was converted into a proper home and the layout sorted, and when designer Charlotte Boundy was enlisted to add some design to the interior she created a serene and relaxing home with the prettiest of colours and patterns. The result is brighter, softer and much more welcoming. Photos: Paul Whitbread.

Wood panelling but make it really cool! I think for most of us when you think of wood panelling you think of the horrible orange stuff that was used several decades ago in retro homes. This home might be mid-century but it’s anything but horrible with this gorgeous white oak panelling used throughout that adds an incredible amount of warmth – particularly when used in almost every room. I really love how cocooning this is and not a white wall to be seen! Designed by Nina Freudenberger. Photos: Chris Mottalini.