With five children headed toward adulthood, a family in Surrey sought to reinvent their historic country house. The goal? To create a home so inviting and engaging that weekends at home felt more thrilling than any getaway.
- Historic Surrey home blended with modern family needs
- New wings include a family kitchen hub and a glamorous party room
- Design encourages gathering, fun, and relaxed living
What happened
The owners of a historic Surrey country estate, aiming to keep their five children coming home rather than heading out to hotels or friends’ places, enlisted designer Linda Boronkay to breathe new life into their residence. Instead of preserving the house as a static showpiece, the renovation focused on creating inviting, functional spaces where family and friends would want to gather and linger. This meant designing lively social wings alongside intimate, cozy corners where everyday rituals like cooking, reading, and long meals could flourish.
The transformation included adding two new wings: a spacious kitchen and family hub for daily life, and a sophisticated 'red room' designed for entertaining, complete with a piano, DJ console, bar, and hidden wine room. Although the house preserves significant historic features from its 16th-century origins, the interiors now reflect the family's vibrant personality with playful colors and whimsical details, striking a balance between respect for the past and contemporary living.
Why it feels good
This Surrey house stands out because it’s designed not just for looking at but truly living in. The result is a home where warmth, laughter, and spontaneity thrive. By prioritizing the family’s habits and desires—from lively parties to laid-back dinners—the redesign creates an environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued. The presence of playful design elements alongside historic charm allows the home to feel fresh and relevant, offering a joyful contrast to the formality often associated with traditional country estates.
Moreover, the blend of grand spaces with intimate rooms allows the occupants to easily shift from lively socializing to quiet retreat, making staying home appealing no matter the mood. This flexible and family-focused approach nurtures connection and social energy, encouraging the children and their friends to come back time and again rather than seeking excitement elsewhere.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those inspired by this project, exploring how historic homes can evolve to support modern family life is a rewarding pursuit. Look for other designs that merge heritage with personal expression, combining traditional architectural elements with vibrant, functional interiors. Investigate how adding spaces specifically tailored to your family’s lifestyle—whether a creative studio, a cozy reading nook, or an inviting social lounge—can transform your own living experience.
Additionally, keeping an eye on designers like Linda Boronkay and studios focused on adaptable, playful interiors may spark ideas for balancing respect for history with the joyful chaos of family life. Whether planning your own renovation or simply appreciating thoughtful home design, this Surrey estate offers a refreshing perspective on how a home can truly be the best place to be.