The Old Clock House
A substantial Victorian residence nestled off a side lane in the historic village of Sopley, the Old Clock House stands as a timeless testament to history. A derelict building soon to be renovated, was once a bustling retreat for stables and coaches serving Sopley Manor. Its weathered walls and antique charm drew me in, sparking a creative journey to breathe new life into its ageing beauty. In this blog, I'll take you through the meticulous process of designing and choosing the beautiful colours and layout that now grace the Old Clock House.
Inspiration from History:
Every historic building has a story to tell, and the Old Clock House was no exception. Before diving into the design process, I spent time researching the rich history of Sopley and its architectural gems. Understanding the historical context of the house allowed me to appreciate its unique features and incorporate them into the redesign.
Choosing the Perfect Colours:
Selecting the right colour palette was a pivotal step in transforming the Clock House. I drew inspiration from the surrounding landscape, capturing the essence of Sopley's natural beauty. Earthy tones such as moss green and warm beige were chosen to complement the lush countryside, creating a harmonious blend between the house and its environment.
To accentuate the house's timeless elegance, I opted for a classic combination of muted blues and whites for the trim and detailing. This not only added a touch of sophistication but also paid homage to the traditional colour schemes prevalent in historical English architecture.
Testing and Sampling:
With the colours in mind, I meticulously tested various paint samples on small sections of the Old Clock House. Natural light played a crucial role in this process, as it highlighted different shades throughout the day. This hands-on approach allowed me to observe how the colours interacted with the building's unique architectural elements, ensuring a cohesive and visually pleasing result.
Preserving Original Features:
While the Old Clock House was undergoing its transformation, I made a conscious effort to preserve its original features. The weathered wooden beams, stable doors and antique detailing were carefully restored, enhancing the house's authenticity. Choosing colours that complemented these elements rather than overshadowing them was essential in maintaining the building's historical integrity.
Modernising
Whilst ensuring original features were preserved, a sense of modern day living was desperately needed. My clients love for contemporary art played a huge part in the process of this design with a journey to combine the old with the new was achieved.
Layout and Spatial Planning:
The layout of the Clock House required a delicate balance between preserving its historical charm and adapting to modern living needs. I collaborated with skilled craftsmen to ensure that every room seamlessly blended the old with the new. Open spaces and strategically placed windows allowed natural light to flood the interiors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The journey of designing the Old Clock House was a labour of love, a meticulous process that aimed to honour its past while embracing the present. By carefully choosing a colour palette inspired by nature, but injecting bold colours throughout to compliment my clients contemporary art which sit perfectly joining the old with the new yet preserving original features, and reimagining the layout, the house now stands as a revitalised masterpiece. It serves as a testament to the marriage of history and design, demonstrating that with thoughtful consideration, even the oldest structures can find new life and purpose in the modern world.
