Chris Appleton's Dreamy Retreat: A Cotswolds Manor Reimagined

British hairstylist Chris Appleton, known for his transformative hair designs for stars like Dua Lipa and Kim Kardashian, has created a serene escape in the Cotswolds that contrasts sharply with his bustling life in Los Angeles.

Upon discovering a Georgian manor dating back to the 1760s, Appleton felt an instant connection. "It was like one of those houses I used to draw as a kid," he recalls. After a serendipitous visit where the sun broke through the clouds, he seized the opportunity to call the stately residence his own.

In collaboration with interior designer Kasandra Rafter, Appleton sought to blend modern comforts with the manor's historical charm. Rafter, who previously worked with him in Hollywood, was tasked with bringing a fresh yet authentic touch to the space. Their design journey began with sourcing antiques from local shops in Tetbury and staying at nearby estates for inspiration.

The manor's interiors are characterized by a soothing palette of neutrals, highlighted by Farrow & Ball's Oxford Stone paint. Appleton emphasized comfort, opting for fabrics that feel inviting, such as linen and shearling, in spaces like the drawing room, which features a custom sofa and vintage armchair.

Rafter's vision included preserving elements of the original home, like the black Aga stove in the kitchen and the clawfoot tub in the primary bathroom. Together, they transformed the once-blue kitchen into a cream-toned space with open shelving that invites natural light.

A key focus was maintaining a balance between comfort and aesthetics while ensuring the manor felt like a home rather than a museum. As Rafter explains, they aimed to incorporate historical touches without overwhelming the space with a California vibe. This meant choosing rustic elements that harmonized with the manor's architecture.

The garden surrounding the manor has also been reshaped, allowing the family’s goats to frolic in a now-tidy landscape. Appleton's vision for the property includes making it a space where his family, including his children Kitty and Bill, can reconnect with their roots.

After months of hard work, the manor was ready to welcome visitors by Christmas. Appleton fondly describes the atmosphere: church bells ringing, sheep grazing, and a festive nativity scene, creating a picturesque holiday setting.

Appleton reflects on the tranquility of country life compared to his fast-paced LA lifestyle, stating, "It’s very peaceful and calming. You lay in the bath and listen to some classical music and drift away." His hope is that the home serves as a gathering place for family, allowing them to enjoy both the beauty of the Cotswolds and the comfort of a thoughtfully designed space.

Source: www.architecturaldigest.com