An expansive English country house originally built for the Earl of Lovelace has been carefully reimagined by Hutley & Humm to suit modern family life, balancing its architectural heritage with lively, colorful interiors designed for comfort and longevity.
- Historic architecture meets rich, colorful interiors
- Personalized design for family comfort and work-from-home needs
- Eclectic layering of antiques and contemporary pieces
What happened
The design duo Hutley & Humm took on the challenge of updating a grand Surrey Hills country home dating from 1890, originally built for the Earl of Lovelace. Tasked with merging its historical essence with the demands of a modern family, the designers embraced the house’s generous proportions, high ceilings, and period details influenced by the Arts and Crafts and Lutyens styles. The home’s current owners, Theo and Clara, have deep personal roots here, as it was Theo’s childhood house, and they wanted it to reflect their family life while honoring the property’s past.
Their brief was clear: create a space that could support a busy family lifestyle, remote work, and entertaining, all while feeling polished yet approachable. Hutley & Humm harmonized antique furnishings with bespoke and contemporary pieces, enriching the home’s character without imposing strict formality. The design carefully layers colors, patterns, and textures to add warmth and personality throughout the space.
Why it feels good
This home’s joyfulness stems from the balance between tradition and modernity. The original timber paneling and Arts and Crafts staircase remain as architectural anchors, providing a rich historical foundation. Against this backdrop, hues like Farrow & Ball’s soft green and vibrant raspberry accents add warmth and visual interest. Patterned fabrics and playful details inject personality, making each room feel inviting rather than overly coordinated or formal.
The project’s success lies in creating a living environment that feels collected over time—mixing antiques with contemporary designs to ensure the house stays relevant for decades. This thoughtful approach prevents the interiors from feeling staged and instead creates a welcoming, lived-in atmosphere where family life can flourish naturally.
What to enjoy or watch next
If you’re inspired by how Hutley & Humm have blended historical architecture with contemporary comfort, exploring other Arts and Crafts country homes redesigned for modern living is a delightful next step. Look for homes that use layered colors, textured fabrics, and a curated mix of furnishings to create inviting and functional family spaces.
For those seeking practical takeaways, consider incorporating varied patterns and colors in your own home to add depth and personality without overwhelming the existing style. Mixing traditional elements with contemporary pieces can refresh any space while respecting its character, ensuring your home feels both timeless and tuned to your lifestyle.