Earls Colne, Essex

Originally owned by the church, this historic rectory had fallen into disrepair after years of use as a rental property and was in clear need of thoughtful restoration. The challenge lay in transforming the building into a warm, functional family home while respecting its age, character, and setting.

The property is enclosed by a beautiful and exceptionally old boundary wall dating back to when the surrounding land was part of a working farm. This wall became a key source of inspiration for the project, guiding a design approach that would modernise the home while ensuring it felt as though it had always belonged within its historic landscape.

The works involved a complete remodelling of the entire footprint. Internal layouts were entirely reimagined, with walls removed and rebuilt to improve flow and functionality. Structural interventions included the introduction and retention of exposed beams, alongside new flooring installed throughout the property. Bathrooms were fully reconfigured, including the creative conversion of an old airing cupboard into an additional shower room.

A full interior renovation and styling scheme was undertaken, carefully balancing contemporary comfort with a timeless aesthetic. The new kitchen, developed in close collaboration with Apron Kitchens, forms the heart of the home, combining craftsmanship, practicality, and understated elegance.

Beyond the main house, existing external buildings were renovated to create valuable usable space, including storage and a dedicated workshop. The outdoor areas, previously overgrown and home to a former chicken coop, were completely transformed through extensive front and rear landscaping. The project includes the creation of structured garden spaces and an outdoor kitchen, enhancing the connection between interior and exterior living.

This is an ongoing project, evolving organically as the family home continues to be refined — a sensitive yet confident reinvention that honours the rectory’s heritage while bringing it firmly into modern family life.