OAK HOUSE: A BEAUTIFUL BALANCE OF HERITAGE AND MODERN LIVING
Tucked away in the Buckinghamshire countryside, Oak House is a striking five-bedroom property that artfully blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design
Constructed in 2006 using a classic Wealden house frame, the home pays homage to Tudorstyle architecture while offering all the comforts of contemporary family living. Defined by soaring oak beams, intricate iron detailing and far-reaching views across the landscape, the house presented a compelling design opportunity— one that Claire Garner Design Studio approached with sensitivity, creativity and a clear vision for timeless interiors.
A Home Full of Character and Charm
The homeowners, a family of four, moved to Oak House in 2018 after living in a nearby village. They were immediately drawn to the home’ s warmth and presence— the rich grain of the exposed oak, the thoughtful layout and the potential to create a long-term family base. Unlike modern open-plan homes, this property offered clearly defined rooms that encouraged both shared moments and private retreat.
Initially brought on board to design the master bedroom, Claire Garner Design Studio quickly became an integral part of shaping the entire home’ s interior, refining the spatial flow and design to better reflect the family’ s lifestyle.
Designing with Purpose and Integrity
The vision was clear: to create interiors that felt calm, welcoming and effortlessly in tune with the existing structure. Function was just as important as form, with the clients seeking spaces that would feel relaxed but also serve the daily demands of family life.
Claire and her team took a collaborative approach, making sure every design choice complemented the original architecture rather than competing with it. A warm, layered palette of neutrals was chosen to highlight the natural materials, while gentle lighting and tactile finishes helped create a grounded, harmonious feel throughout the home.
Transforming the Home, One Space at a Time
One of the most striking updates was in the kitchen, which had felt too dark and disconnected from the rest of the house. Rather than replacing everything, the studio adopted a more mindful approach— retaining the original cabinetry and working with the kitchen’ s original makers to adapt and improve the layout. Lighter worktops were introduced to reflect light, while new lighting— both wall-mounted and a pendant above the breakfast nook— helped to soften the space and create a more inviting mood. The travertine flooring, full of depth and character, remained untouched, anchoring the new elements beautifully.
In the entrance hall, a dramatic double-height space with a gallery landing, Claire introduced a bespoke open-metal pendant. Its form echoed the intricate iron features seen on the home’ s exterior, creating a visual thread between outside and in. This one
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