Sharvell The Album 2023

THE ALBUM 2023

Welcome...

Dynamic and contemporary, we aim to exceed expectations and nurture long term relationships with our clients. Our dedication raises the bar.

Sharvell Property is a contemporary boutique estate agency with traditional values. We provide a bespoke service tailored to you and your home; combining beautiful marketing and local knowledge with an outstanding commitment to our clients.

Based in the heart of the Cotswolds and specialising in the sale of residential properties in the region, we pride ourselves on our service and approachability whilst offering integrity, discretion, and professionalism. Our relationship with our clients is of the utmost importance to us.

Our passion

We are lucky to live in one of the most attractive and soughtafter regions of England. The Cotswolds has much to offer the potential buyer and our enthusiasm and knowledge of the area is key. We moved to the Cotswolds when our eldest son Rufus was only a few months old. Over time, and now with two further sons in tow, Wilfred and Augustus, we have built a wonderful network of friends, contacts and a wealth of experience which we wish to share with others.

Our experience

We created Sharvell Property after working for over two decades in the sale of international, national, and regional properties.

Our experience has led us to identify a need for a more personal and better managed approach to buying and selling property. We wanted to make a difference and create a business together which we could be proud of.

Our promise

We strive to offer a more personal and enjoyable experience to buying or selling a home. By taking the best aspects of a traditional agency and combining the impact of the internet, exceptional photography and marketing, we are redefining the estate agency process.

We advertise on all of the major property portals and ensure that your home has the coverage it deserves. Our dedicated photographers bring out the best in our properties and our innovative and effective marketing ensures every home stands out.

Pet & Fran sca

A sensational period Townhouse with stunning gardens

Tetbury, GL8 8DQ

Malmesbury: 5 miles, M4 (Junction 16): 17 miles, Kemble: 8 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), Cirencester: 10 miles, Bath: 24 miles, Bristol: 27 miles

A haven of peace and tranquillity in the very heart of Tetbury. A substantial Grade II Listed home with generous proportions. The living spaces are bright and light and superbly laid out to provide comfort with seamlessly flowing rooms and cosy corners. Set in circa 1 acre of beautiful gardens and grounds. EPC rating D.

A stunning contemporary Cotswold home in a fabulous village

Chedworth GL54 4AJ

Cirencester: 7 miles, Cheltenham: 11 miles, Kemble Station: 11 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), Swindon: 21 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 25 miles

A fabulous village house, superbly renovated blending contemporary design with Cotswold flair. The owners have been mindful to create a welcoming home which flows beautifully with open plan living spaces, exceptional countryside views and cosy corners. EPC rating B.

Guide Price £1,195,000

5 6 4

A stunning Grade II Listed Georgian townhouse in the heart of Fairford

Fairford, GL7 4AQ

Cirencester: 9 miles, Burford: 12 miles, Swindon: 14.5 miles (London Paddington 60 mins), M4 (Junction 15): 18 miles, Cheltenham: 26 miles

A sensational semi-detached Grade II Listed Georgian townhouse. The current owners have cherished this home for the last five decades and it is very much a home with soul, character and an exceptionally beautiful garden. EPC rating E.

A beautifully renovated Cotswold Cottage in the heart of the village

Chedworth, GL54 4AL

Cirencester: 7 miles, Cheltenham: 12 miles, Kemble: Station 13 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), Swindon: 25 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 27 miles

A sensational Cotswold cottage, clearly renovated with love, attention to detail and creative flare. The accommodation flows beautifully allowing for an abundance of natural light, well designed entertaining spaces and cosy corners. EPC rating E.

Guide Price £1,100,000

3 3 2

Q&A

with

We are Cotswolds based architects with extensive experience of designing homes within the local area and a deep understanding of the intricacies of the planning process within the Cotswold AONB and surrounding areas. We are a RIBA Chartered architectural practice based near Bourton-on-the-Water.

Ashleigh Clarke, our Founder and Lead Architect brings a wealth of knowledge and creative expertise to our clients.

Ashleigh trained for the first two degrees, Bachelor of Arts in architecture and Masters of Architecture at De Montfort University and while working in an architectural practice Ashleigh then took his final exams in Postgraduate degree to become a qualified architect.

How would you describe your design philosophy?

Every architectural design is a balancing act with a classic balance of form and function. Essentially, we believe in creating spaces which are designed for living.

We believe that buildings are homes as well as houses and we are ambitious in our architecture but practical in our approach. Our design philosophy combines what we believe are the essential elements of unique design, longevity, sustainability, bespoke, luxury detailing and function over form.

Talk us through the design process, how you are led by clients, how you put together designs etc

As a RIBA Chartered Practice our process sits in accordance with the RIBA Plan of Work – the Industry-standard planning method that details each step of the process in a building, construction or design project. It can be daunting, but we have extensive experience and have a deeply collaborative approach with our clients and specialist consultants.

During the briefing stage, we create the overall concept designs. The first and vital step is the initial call with our clients, followed by the initial site visit to meet the client and view the property or proposed site. The walk-through at our client’s home at the initial site visit is a hugely important part of the process. It is always a privilege to be invited into someone’s home and as we walk through together, we can suggest new options for our clients to consider, and most importantly, we listen to their needs and wants.

As part of our process, we carry out a feasibility study, which confirms whether the project is possible from a structural or environmental point of view. We then present our preliminary costing with our fee proposal for our clients to review and we believe in allowing our clients plenty

Ashleigh Clarke Architects

“It’s always worth speaking to an architect as they can often flag any issues that may arise with your proposed plans as well as offering alternative design solutions that you may not have thought of previously, whilst being able to provide invaluable guidance throughout the planning process”

of time to take things into consideration, to really think about our proposal, and to reach their own conclusion as to whether they believe that we are the right fit for their project.

Upon advice to proceed, we arrange the building and topographical survey which is followed by the presentation of our concept design. Once the survey has been received, we then draw up our full design proposals and then continue through the stages of obtaining planning permission and building regulations.

What would be your biggest tip when choosing an architect to work with?

To go with your gut feeling. It’s a close, collaborative working relationship and architecture is about trust. As architects, we walk away at the end of the project, but the client will be living in that space every day. Trust and a collaborative approach need to be there right from the beginning. The project can be a long journey from start to finish so its important to find a working and friendly relationship knowing you can work well together. It’s also important to find an architect with the right skill set and expertise who has worked on projects similar to yours that might require further considerations such as designing in a conservation area, AONB or working with listed buildings. that might have required

further consideration of designing in a conservation area. As the client you should research the architect’s past projects portfolio and make sure their work is in line with your ambitions for your house. It doesn’t have to be one design the architect has created on one house, there might be elements of several designs they have created which have influence your decision. This is probably the starting point to narrow down your search for the right architect for you.

What is your favourite part of the process when you’re working on a project?

Finding out what our clients love during the early part of the design process, putting pen to paper, overcoming challenges whilst designing and then without a doubt, seeing our designs come to life! We love the challenge of a new project and coming up with innovative, bespoke design solutions and of course seeing our clients happy in their dream home is always fantastic!

Tell us about a recent project

We were commissioned by our clients to design an ambitious side and rear extension for their beautiful, detached home. Our initial brief was very clear, and our clients were keen to use the newlycreated additional space for a more spacious living and garden room which connected seamlessly with the garden and patio area.

Our clients loved the design from the first sketch, which allowed for the large living room with the fire that they requested creating a beautiful focal point. The large glazed panels on the rear of the property flood the interiors with natural light and are hidden away from the front elevation, allowing our clients to retain their privacy whilst also providing a real sense of indoor/outdoor

living and connectivity to the new patio space and surrounding gardens.

On the front elevation, the house was beautifully balanced, and followed the roof pitch lines of the existing house but on the rear elevation, a flat roof was hidden and expanded the entirety of the side extension to allow for a large living space connected to the rear garden that you wouldn’t know is there.

We love how we achieved this large space which met our client’s needs but the feature we are most proud of is the large full-width glazing and the glazed panel feature above the doors which provides a sleek contemporary design and carefully hides the flat roof behind. This contrast between contemporary and traditional design worked really well and provided a beautiful aesthetic.

What do you think makes a house a home?

A space which is not only aesthetically beautiful, but functional and serves the lifestyle of its inhabitants.

Everybody understands what we mean by ‘soulless architecture’ – A house or a workplace where your heart sinks a little every time you walk through the door. As architects, we believe that architecture should aspire to be so much more and inspire its inhabitants with a space which is perfectly designed to not only meet their practical needs, but to also bring harmony to their home.

What are some architecture trends you’re already noticing for 2023?

In recent years, creating beautiful living spaces which are flooded with natural light has been a priority so we expect to see this trend continue as well as the desire for open-plan living.

Combining traditional features such as oak framework and Cotswold stone with contemporary design features with extensive glazing and metal framework will also continue to prevail as a trend into 2023.

Trends will be driven towards designs that allow for more flexible spaces, more floor space, and storage. Indoor/outdoor living and outdoor-inspired interiors are increasingly sought after and we will continue to see the upward trend for biophilic design which maximises our connectivity with the outdoor environment. Another key trend is that of customised interiors such as gyms, entertainment spaces, home cinemas and luxury games rooms.

Where do you get your design inspiration from?

Growing up, I was constantly drawing, painting or modelling and I took real inspiration from the world I saw around me and recreating it in a different medium. Now as an adult and being a Cotswold architect, I love the beauty and the artistic freedom that the landscape brings and it is a constant source of inspiration to me. It’s always incredibly satisfying to design spaces that inspire people and bring a sense of calm.

Specialising in Cotswolds homes, you must work with a lot of listed buildings, conservation areas and of course, the AONB. What are the challenges with that and how do you design with keeping the natural and historical elements in mind?

We love being based in the beautiful Cotswolds but there are challenges we face as architects in a rural setting. Listed buildings, conservation areas and the AONB all mean that additional permissions need to be obtained. With both conservation areas and the

AONB it is essential that our designs are both sensitive to the surrounding landscape and sympathetic to the existing structure of the original building, maximising views through contemporary extensions and glass links which also combine original features such as oak beams and framework. Creating a separate dwelling which links to an original part of a building of historic importance helps to preserve the original features and stonework whilst also lending a contemporary twist which is sympathetic to its surroundings.

National Parks can also be a challenge in certain rural areas, and they currently have the highest level of planning protection in order to preserve the landscape and it’s unique qualities. As with Area of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB) status, it is imperative to consider the impact of any planning applications on the character of the existing landscape. Planning approval is needed for extensions, cladding, verandas or balconies, certain raised platforms, curtilage structures, certain roof lights, with materials required to be consistent with the existing materials used in the surrounding area. A lot of our projects involve works to existing Cotswold traditional buildings, many of them Listed or historic

properties with requirements tending to lean towards additional space and increasing natural light. This extends far beyond the actual design itself. We carefully select materials that are sympathetic to and in keeping with the existing structure and are locally sourced.

Listed buildings, conservation areas and the AONB all mean that additional permissions need to be obtained. Architectural design should be both sensitive to the surrounding landscape and sympathetic to the existing structure of the original building. However, contemporary additions also work well with the contrast between traditional features such as Cotswold stone and oak framework with more modern glazed link walkways and metal style frames allowing for visually stunning designs.

What should people consider when revamping their homes? (layout, usage etc)

When it comes to revamping your home there are a number of considerations to make such as what you ideally want to achieve eg more storage space, living space, an increase in natural light etc and what limitations there may be with your existing home. There are also a number of different ways to achieve your design goals. You may be able to extend your property to allow for more modern, open-plan living spaces which are flooded with natural light and additional living spaces such as snugs, bedrooms, utility rooms, and boot rooms.

It’s always worth speaking to an architect as they can often flag any issues that may arise with your proposed plans as well as offering alternative design solutions that you may not have thought of previously, whilst being able to provide invaluable guidance throughout the planning process.

“We love the challenge of a new project and coming up with innovative, bespoke design solutions and of course seeing our clients happy in their dream home is always fantastic!”

An exceptional and beautifully renovated village house

Winson, GL7 5ER

Bibury: 2.5 miles, Northleach: 6 miles, Cirencester: 8 miles, Kemble: 11 miles (direct train to London Paddington 80 minutes), Cheltenham: 18 miles, M5 (junction 11A): 18 miles, M4 (junction 15): 23 miles, Oxford: 31 miles

An immaculately presented and impressive Cotswold home. Exceptional care and attention have been put into creating a welcoming home with living spaces which flow seamlessly. A stunning and quintessential Cotswold Gem. EPC rating E.

A super village house in the heart of The Cotswolds

Coates, GL7 6NR

Kemble: 3 miles (direct train to London Paddington), Cirencester: 4 miles, Malmesbury: 12 miles, Cheltenham: 17 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 22 miles

A superb village house with bright and light living spaces and scope for further modernisation. Delightful garden with terrace and small paddock. EPC rating D.

Guide Price £995,000

francesca@sharvellproperty.com

4 5 2

Francesca Sharvell 01285 831000

A superb village house in the heart of The Cotswolds

Chedworth GL54 4AL

Cirencester: 7 miles, Cheltenham: 12 miles, Kemble Station: 13 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), Swindon: 25 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 27 miles

A stunning and substantial Cotswold village house full of charm and character. Careful thought and attention have been put into creating a welcoming and comfortable home with bright and light living spaces and cosy corners. EPC rating E.

Guide Price £1,295,000

3 6 3

francesca@sharvellproperty.com

Francesca Sharvell 01285 831000

A beautiful Cotswold stone house in quiet spot in the village

Down Ampney, GL7 5PQ

South Cerney: 3 miles, Fairford: 4 miles, Cirencester: 7 miles, Swindon: 13 miles, (London Paddington 55 mins), M4 (Junction 15): 14 miles

A superb Cotswold stone village house with bright and light living spaces throughout. Built two decades ago and recently renovated, the house is well laid out and flows beautifully, offering great living space.

EPC rating C.

Guide Price £1,000,000

3 4 2

01285 831000

francesca@sharvellproperty.com

Francesca Sharvell

A sensational Cotswold country home

Coates, GL7 6NS

Kemble: 3 miles (direct train to London Paddington), Cirencester: 4 miles, Tetbury: 9 miles, Cheltenham: 16 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 22 miles

A wonderful and substantial country home in the heart of the Cotswolds with bright and light living spaces and cosy corners. Delightful landscaped gardens, swimming pool and stables. Set in circa 4 acres. EPC rating D.

with Brightbox Lighting

Brightbox Lighting is an architectural lighting design studio with more than two decades of experience in residential, commercial, and exterior lighting throughout the UK, including a few in the Caribbean and the Balearic Islands. Situated near the home of Gloucester Rugby, Brightbox Lighting nestles between the fascinating cathedral, and King’s, the prestigious school founded by Henry VIII.

In our interview with Brightbox’s director, Jason Wilkin, we discussed designing exceptional spaces with exacting clients and what is to be anticipated when working with a lighting designer to create your ideal living space.

How would you describe your design philosophy?

At Brightbox, our unique approach involves not only designing but also supplying lighting for the projects we are involved with. This enables the designed outcome to be delivered accurately and as intended by the designer. It eliminates the lack of architectural product experience by a third party and keeps the communications clear to the installers for maximum efficiency. As a truly independent design studio,

importantly we are free to select the best product for each project application without any ties or obligations to any specific brands leaving us able to use the best product for the style and correct lit effect.

Our designs integrate the desires and requirements of our clients while ensuring that the spaces we create are complementary to the architecture and style of the individual, whilst ensuring the look and lit effects remain timeless and continuously loved by whoever may experience them.

Talk us through the design process when it comes to a particular lighting project. How you are led by clients, how you put together designs etc?

The first step in all projects begins with a consultation with the client and a visit to the site or project area. This is arguably the most crucial stage where we gather a better understanding of the client’s requirements and personal tastes. During this stage, we will discuss all aspects of the project, including the architectural plans, control system choices and budget range. We will follow this up with conceptual ideas outlining the design process. A pricing structure

“Our unique approach involves not only designing but also supplying lighting for the projects we are involved with.”

for the design phase is then issued. The next stage involves creating a primary design based on the client’s architectural plans, along with an image bank demonstrating the effect each light would have in the space. For larger, custom-made pieces, such as a large entrance chandelier, we create a 3D space and present rendered files as these are significant choices for the client to make, being the centrepiece of the room’s styling.

The last stage moves to the final design and product quotation. We go above and beyond throughout the entire process including technical support, programming, product labelling and shipping with on site consultation.

What drew you to working in lighting design specifically?

I have been fascinated by light and the effects it can create to enhance elements of a stage or a present moment where ever you might be. The way light can transform an atmosphere and affect your emotions and mood, in a particular accentuating space through light has always inspired me. Furthermore, my sensitivity to light has led me to focus on improving poor lighting in working, learning and living

environments. It is my goal to create better lighting conditions that will forever benefit everyone who occupies these spaces.

It seems that lighting design work requires an even balance of technical expertise and artistic flair, how do you approach both?

To ensure a positive end-user experience, we prioritise simplicity in our lighting control design while still providing modern scene-setting functionality. This is simply at the touch of a button or even via voice instruction. Our electronics background informs us on the appropriate dimming equipment to use with efficient lighting products ensuring perfect compatibility for the best possible operation and performance.

What is your favourite part of the process when you’re working on a project?

The initial scope and design meetings are always a stand-out part of a project with an incredible amount of creativity bouncing around with matching enthusiasm which is contagious for everyone involved. Of course, visiting the finished projects and seeing the expressions on people’s faces is always a mesmerising moment.

Tell us about a project you’re proud of.

I’m most proud of our project in the Balearics which was logistically difficult and required the very best logical lighting controls and system design. It looks stunning and due to its holiday energy, it will be a hard one to beat.

What are some simple tips for those looking to revamp the lighting or ambiance in their homes?

Being able to control the variation of the lighting in your home can make a

huge difference. Consider changing conventional switches to dimmer switches to adjust the mood via the intensity of the lighting. This is a great, cost-effective method to transform your space that we’d recommend to everyone. Add layers of lighting with table lamps and wall lighting and if you are really inspired then you could add some accent lighting such as low-level floor washers on stairs and miniature uplighters in window frames. Link each light with a specific purpose, such as lighting up architectural features or artwork. Avoid having a blanket of light, as shadows are just as important as light. The all-important chiaroscuro effect.

“Brightbox going forward will continue to be at the forefront of lighting design for residential and commercial spaces but with some exciting changes. We’re bringing together a new wave of industry-leading talents from across the UK.”

What are some lighting or design trends you’re really enjoying at the moment?

I’m highly interested in Circadian Friendly full spectrum lighting. I strongly believe that lighting should feel natural and provide true-to-life visual accuracy. The concept of adjusting the colour temperature of a light source throughout the day enabling it to follow the sun’s colour and intensity levels is an incredible technological advancement which we’re beginning to see in various forward-thinking offices, the Gymshark HQ being one of them.

What are some of the main challenges when it comes to lighting traditional Cotswold homes?

Finding the perfect balance between architectural and decorative fittings can be a challenge, but it is essential to create a cohesive design that fits within the Cotswold style. Our team has experience working with a variety of other constraints such as listed buildings, wildlife, AONB and technical advice for upcoming challenges such as Building Regulations part L.

What does the futue of Brightbox hold?

Where do you get your design inspiration from?

I gain inspiration from many sources, but one of my favourite ways to spark creativity is by carefully observing the design and layout of a room. By taking note of the unique architectural features and other aspects of the space, I can begin to develop a lighting plan that accentuates these details and creates a truly immersive atmosphere. Whether it’s through the use of different layers of light, focused effects, or other techniques, I strive to create an experience that feels cohesive and intentional. Ultimately, my goal is to help people see their spaces in a new light and to inspire them to think differently about the role that lighting can play in their lives.

Which interiors do you admire? (hotels, buildings, Instagrammers etc)

I have a deep admiration for historic buildings, and I believe that it is important to preserve their rich history and stories. As we move towards the future, we can find ways to integrate modern technology into these structures, all while maintaining their timeless design. To achieve this, we can implement energy-efficient control systems that not only reduce the building’s carbon footprint but also help to maintain a comfortable and sustainable environment for the building’s occupants. By doing so, we can continue to honour the legacy of these great structures while ensuring that they are functional and relevant for generations to come.

Brightbox going forward will continue to be at the forefront of lighting design for residential and commercial spaces but with some exciting changes. We’re bringing together a new wave of industry-leading talents from across the UK, specialising and focusing within their local landscape but connected to the central Brightbox HQ hub. We have developed software over the past couple of years that will allow comprehensive access to product and industry knowledge. Allowing the individual creatives to be free to do their best work and not be slowed by unnecessary administration inefficiency. We intend to support our design community technically and logistically to build a pool of talent that will collectively advance the lighting industry and in turn all the projects it has the opportunity to timelessly accentuate. A community of like-minded individuals working collaboratively as part of a bigger entity to bring your lighting visions to life.

“Our designs integrate the desires and requirements of our clients while ensuring that the spaces we create are complementary to the architecture and style of the individual.”

An exceptional barn conversion with separate cottage

Cirencester, GL7 5HA

Cirencester: 2 miles, Kemble: 7 miles (direct train to London Paddington), Cheltenham: 17 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 20 miles

Originally a cottage with farm buildings, this exceptional Cotswold home has been restored and renovated over the years to create a beautiful and substantial country home only a short drive from stunning Cirencester. EPC rating C.

Guide Price £1,750,000

6 7 6

Peter Sharvell 01285 831000 peter@sharvellproperty.com

A fantastic and superbly proportioned Cotswold home in a fabulous village

Chedworth, GL54 4NQ

Cirencester: 8 miles, Cheltenham: 12 miles, Northleach: 5 miles, Kemble Station: 12 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), M4 (Junction 15): 25 miles

A superbly proportioned country home, beautifully laid out with an abundance of natural light throughout. The living spaces flow seamlessly, offering superb entertaining space and welcoming rooms. EPC rating C.

Guide Price £1,100,000

5 6 3

Francesca Sharvell 01285 831000

francesca@sharvellproperty.com

A substantial country house in the heart of Cirencester in a fabulous parkland setting

Cirencester, GL7 1RL

Kemble: 4 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), Cheltenham: 16 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 16 miles, Swindon: 16 miles

Querns House is a stunning Georgian Townhouse with a high walled garden frontage, sitting in an exceptional plot of 1.6 acres of parkland garden, superbly positioned within walking distance to shops and restaurants. A rare find in the heart of town! EPC rating D.

Guide Price £2,500,000

5 5 4

Francesca Sharvell 01285 831000 francesca@sharvellproperty.com

An

exceptional and extensive Cotswold home in a fabulous village

Chedworth, GL54 4NQ

Cirencester: 8 miles, Cheltenham: 12 miles, Northleach: 5 miles, Kemble Station: 12 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), M4 (Junction 15): 25 miles

A superbly proportioned country home, beautifully laid out with an abundance of natural light throughout. This fabulous home is both welcoming and adapted to contemporary living with cosy corners and versatile accommodation. Set in circa 1.4 acres of landscaped gardens with a paddock. EPC rating E.

A quintessential semi-detached cottage in the heart of the Cotswolds

Beverston, GL8 8TT

Tetbury: 2 miles, Malmesbury: 6 miles, M4 (Junction 17): 13 miles, Kemble: 9 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), Cirencester: 12 miles

Renovated to a high standard, the cottage is presented immaculately and is full of charm and character. A true haven of peace and tranquillity in the heart of the village. EPC rating E.

Guide Price £585,000

1 2 1

Francesca Sharvell 01285 831000 francesca@sharvellproperty.com

A stunning Cotswold stone house in the heart of the village

Down Ampney, GL7 5PQ

South Cerney: 3 miles, Fairford: 4 miles, Cricklade: 4 miles, Cirencester: 7 miles, Swindon: 13 miles (London Paddington 55 mins), Kemble: 10 miles (London Paddington 75 mins), M4 (Junction 15): 14 miles

A substantial and beautifully laid out Cotswold home superbly positioned in a quiet spot in the village. The living spaces are bright and light throughout and flow seamlessly. The property has been significantly extended and enhanced over the years to create a beautiful contemporary Cotswold home. EPC rating C.

A beautiful barn in the heart of The Cotswolds

Tarlton, GL7 6PA

Kemble: 2 miles (direct train to London Paddington), Cirencester: 5 miles, Tetbury: 7 miles, Malmesbury: 9 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 22 miles, Cheltenham: 18 miles

A beautiful and generously proportioned converted barn located down a quiet country lane on the edge of the village. Careful thought and attention has been put into creating practical yet welcoming living spaces with an abundance of natural light throughout. EPC rating E.

Guide Price £1,075,000

francesca@sharvellproperty.com

4 4 2

Francesca Sharvell 01285 831000

Q&A

Crittall + Hill is a Cotswolds based Interior Design Studio founded in 2020 by friends and designers Alice Crittall & Rebecca Hill who came together through a shared passion for design, craftsmanship and creating beautiful well considered spaces.

Alice Crittall spent 10 years honing her skills under the guidance of some of London’s top design studios, gaining industry experience working across a broad range of different projects and aesthetic trainings in order to bring a truly unique set of expertise to the interiors scene in the area.

More recently she has focused her attention on her own projects, working on small scale private houses as well as larger scale renovations based throughout the South West. Rebecca’s 10 years in East London working in graphic design, brand identity and shop design has allowed for a seamless move into interiors, bringing completion to a collection of her own personal renovation projects.

“We want every client to feel that they have worked with us to create something truly beautiful and personal that reflects the character of the owner. We work closely with all our clients to ensure that we understand all their needs and preferences so that they can feel

both comfortable and inspired by their environment. We are passionate about long lasting and well thought through design that provide both a sense of energy as well as a sanctuary for our clients.” C+H work closely with specialised craftsmen and workshops to deliver a full design service from concept to completion, with focus on enhancing the usability of a space without compromising on comfort.

Currently they are working on a variety of projects in the Cotswolds, South Wales and London.

Talk us through the design process, how you are led by clients, how you put together colour schemes etc

Understanding a client’s dreams and aspirations and collaborating with them to create interiors that are individual and bespoke, is at the heart of our design philosophy. Before we start any of the design process we like to have a meeting with the client in their home where we discuss how they live, what they love, what they don’t love and their ultimate goals for the project. You can gain a lot of insight into being in someone’s space, by looking at what colours they surround themselves with, what little objects, art or life tools they have around them, and

with Crittall + Hill

“We want every client to feel that they have worked with us to create something truly beautiful and personal that reflects the character of the owner”

whether they have lots of layers in their decorating, or a more minimal approach to things. This all informs our picture of their preferences which we absolutely incorporate into our design process.

One of our starting points when it comes to designing a space is to look at the function of the spaces and whether there is a good sense of flow and consistency throughout the home. We may suggest some structural changes or adapting the layout of the rooms if this is a sticking point, after which we can look at the rooms individually.

We always consider the architectural qualities of each space and work with these to enhance the rooms. For example if there is a room that gets no natural light and always feels dark and cold, we would suggest using a deep rich warm colour on the walls, layering soft lighting and adding tactile textures to make it a really cosy inviting space whilst honouring the built environment.

What would be your biggest tip when choosing an interior designer to work with?

We would always recommend a face to face meeting with any potential designer you are looking at, if possible.

The service we offer as interior designers is so personal to each client as we are creating the homes they live in, and therefore compatibility from both an aesthetic and personality perspective is a key factor to consider. It is really important that the client can fully trust in the process and in order to do so they need to feel safe and confident with their chosen designer. It’s also helpful to be aligned with the design style, so make sure you look at previous projects and don’t be afraid to ask questions. We always work closely with our clients to incorporate as much of their personality and style into each project, but it’s always better to love the examples of their work in order to be inspired and be able to trust that they can deliver a beautiful end result.

Which pieces in a home are worth investing in?

We often find that bespoke storage is one area for consideration that is often overlooked. By incorporating clever solutions it’s possible to totally change the look + feel of a space whilst also offering necessary practical solutions. Another frequent investment we suggest is making small architectural changes to improve the home. Recently we reconfigured an entrance hall to open up a passageway to link the key living spaces on the ground floor level. By doing this we improved both function and flow throughout the home, as well as creating a visually interesting space that doubles up as a vase room.

Tell us about a recent project.

To date our favourite projects have been the renovation of two local pubs, a Georgian townhouse, and a child’s bedroom where we used joinery and hidden storage to create a little bed nook that can offer practical solutions as well as a really lovely space for someone to spend time in.

We are currently in the end stages of designing a lovely 5 bedroom Victorian ‘cottage’ in Monmouthshire that has involved extensive internal renovation and reconfiguration. We have opened up the main entrance hall to have a double height void as the ceiling heights in the original part of the house were very low. This creates a great impactful space as you come into the building. We have also incorporated some more contemporary details such as a large pocket sliding door opening onto the main entrance hall from the open plan kitchen/dining areas, in order to allow these rooms to feel more integrated, and yet it can also be closed off to create a more private setting when needed. We are also about to photograph a recently completed family home in the Cotswolds where the client wanted lots of playful elements throughout the home which we achieved by throwing out the rule book on colour and pattern. This project is a good example of how we work closely with our clients to deliver a brief that is totally theirs, as we don’t have an ‘in house’ set formula for

“We want every client to feel that they have worked with us to create something truly beautiful and personal that reflects the character of the owner”

our designs. Watch this space for those pictures!

What interior trends can you foresee for 2023/2024?

Wall paper trims and little decorative accents are getting ever more popular as they are a brilliant way to bring in some colour and pattern without the full commitment and spend of a full room of wallpaper. With a new legal responsibility to not ‘greenwash’ with the use of terms such as ‘sustainable’, ‘eco’, ‘green’, there will be a shift within these areas of design, through more emphasis being put back onto biophilic design and solutions that promote health and wellbeing. We are also seeing more warm neutrals being used across the board, stepping away from the fifty shades of grey we saw in recent times.

What do you think makes a house a home?

This is such a key aspect of what we do. It’s not until we layer the spaces we design with all the decorative pieces and everyday items, that our interiors take on a human element which is the most important factor for creating the sense of ‘home’, avoiding the sense of the house being a showroom. Whether it’s photographs, artwork, an old coffee table handed down from one generation to the next, or some heirloom crockery, it all adds up to make the house a home.

Can you share a few favourite independent interiors brands?

For paint colours we love Atelier Ellis, who have the most beautifully rich tones and depth of colour, and it’s all hand mixed in their workshop in Bath. For antiques and decorative items we love the independent antique and homewares shops in Tetbury which are a real treasure trove of finds. Griffin Mill in Stroud is also a great little vintage and antiques spot for snooping around and

finding some real gems. Medium Art is an invaluable spot for affordable artwork.

What are your interior pet peeves or style no-nos?

We tend to shy away from feature walls, as these tend to break up a room rather than creating an integrated space.

Favourite colour?

We are loving Atelier Ellis ‘Khadi’ for a warm neutral, and Josephine Munsey ‘Ham Pink’ for a lovely plaster colour that

sits in the mid-tone range. Inspiration is all around us, whether it’s a beautiful old door handle, something in nature or the way light spills into a room, we can find creativity in most moments. And nothing beats going to a National Trust property for endless inspiration.

What are you tips for successfully blending old and new (it could be modernising listed buildings, or blending inherited/antique furniture with new pieces)

We love how layering both antique and contemporary pieces of furniture creates a really dynamic and authentic interior which feels like it’s always been a part of the fabric of the home. It’s also key to consider architectural detail - the appropriate size skirting board and cornice for the era of the property, along with the internal door style and window details are all really important when considering the overall interior scheme. These can all inform our approach on the pieces we choose and how we blend them together.

Which interiors do you admire?

Our go-to designers for inspiration at the moment are Kelly Wearstler for big impactful interiors that push the boundaries, Pierre Yovanovitch for beautifully considered spaces, and Soho Home for great pieces of contemporary furniture that draw inspiration from a wealth of different ears and disciplines.

What should people consider when revamping a room?

First and foremost we would always recommend looking at the layout and functionality of the spaces, to make sure the home is working in the best way it can. Once this has been considered, it is key to work with the natural element of the space; light, volume, and window and doorway positions are all key aspects to bear in mind.

“We always consider the architectural qualities of each space and work with these to enhance the rooms.”

A fabulous country home in the heart of the Cotswolds

Frampton Mansell, GL6 8HZ

Cirencester: 6.6 miles, Kemble: 6.5 miles (direct train to London Paddington), Stroud: 6.5 miles, Tetbury: 7 miles, Cheltenham: 15 miles, Malmesbury: 11 miles

A beautiful and generously proportioned Grade II Listed country home full of charm and character with stunning original features and benefits from superb country living with fabulous country walks on the doorstep. Beautiful gardens and paddock. EPC rating F.

Guide Price £1,595,000

4 6 2

Peter Sharvell 01285 831000 peter@sharvellproperty.com

A beautiful Victorian country house in the heart of the Cotswolds

Bagendon, GL7 7BH

Cirencester: 2 miles, Kemble: 8 miles (direct trains to London Paddington), Cheltenham: 12 miles, M4 (Junction 15): 21 miles

Approached via a sweeping gravelled driveway with dual access, Trinity Farmhouse is a beautiful country house with elegant original features and bright and light living spaces. Set in circa 1.5 acres of beautiful gardens and grounds. EPC rating E.

1 2 1

A quintessential cottage in the heart of the Cotswold

A very pretty Grade II Listed Cotswold cottage, beautifully positioned on the square and located only a short walk from the heart of Bibury. This cosy cottage is full of charm, character and beautiful period features. EPC rating F.

Bibury, GL7 5NS

Cirencester: 7 miles, Northleach: 8 miles, Kemble: 12 miles (direct train to London Paddington), Burford: 10 miles, Cheltenham: 22 miles

Guide Price £385,000

Francesca Sharvell 01285 831000 francesca@sharvellproperty.com