A beautifully restored 1906 Edwardian home in Oxford blends historic architecture, sustainable design, and timeless Italian interiors to create the ultimate modern family home. Once declared uninhabitable, this house has been thoughtfully reimagined into a light-filled, energy-conscious family home where period architecture and modern Italian design exist in perfect harmony.
Restoration and Design
Designed by architect Nicholas Zervoglos, with interiors by Carola Sapper, the transformation demonstrates how sensitive restoration, intelligent spatial planning, and timeless furnishings can breathe new life into a historic property without erasing its character. The original staircase, recreated by local artisans after the original could not be saved, curves elegantly upwards, while a classic black-and-white chequerboard floor grounds the space in timeless tradition.
The restored entrance hall pairs classic Edwardian detailing with contemporary touches, creating an elegant first impression. Every element feels considered, setting the tone for a home where artistry and simplicity work hand in hand.
A Living Room for Everyday Living
Moving through the house, the living room reveals the home’s greatest strength: an effortless balance between comfort and design. Rich textures, generous seating, and carefully selected furnishings create a space that feels personal. Although filled with celebrated Italian design pieces, nothing feels precious.
The living room balances timeless Italian furnishings with generous garden views, making it the heart of the home. As the eye moves further into the space, the architecture quietly takes centre stage. The built-in fireplace anchors the room, while expansive windows flood the interiors with natural light throughout the day.
Large frame views of the mature garden beyond reinforce the connection between the house and its surroundings. Layered textures, rich materials, and carefully chosen furniture create a warm, sophisticated setting for relaxed living.
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The Heart of the Home
The renovation reaches its fullest expression within the generous open-plan extension, where cooking, dining, and relaxing flow effortlessly into one another. Previously a modest dining room, this part of the house has been transformed into a generous family living space that opens directly onto the south-facing garden.
An uncluttered layout and understated palette allow the architecture and natural light to take centre stage. The kitchen itself continues this understated philosophy, wrapped in warm walnut cabinetry that extends seamlessly into the adjoining dining area.
A Peaceful Retreat
Occupying the upper floor, the principal bedroom provides a deliberate contrast to the social spaces below.
Connected to the bedroom, the ensuite bathroom introduces one final moment of quiet luxury. Dramatic green jade marble provides a striking focus, balanced by clean lines and a restrained palette elsewhere.
Like the rest of the home, it demonstrates that elegance often comes from the careful selection of materials. This approach is reminiscent of other successful restorations, where the balance between old and new creates a unique and functional living space. The use of natural materials and careful attention to detail are key elements in achieving this balance, as seen in the work of other designers and architects who have tackled similar projects, and can also be applied to understanding one’s personal interior design style.
The credits for this beautifully restored home go to Architecture: Nicholas Zervoglos and Interiors: Carola Sapper. Their work has resulted in a home that blends past and present, reflecting modern design principles while honoring its history.
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