Norney Grange, Surrey
A new chapter for an Arts & Crafts masterpiece
There are some houses that feel particularly special to be invited into, and Norney Grange is undoubtedly one of them. Designed by the celebrated Arts & Crafts architect C.F.A. Voysey, this remarkable Surrey house is steeped in architectural history and character. Its distinctive silhouette and beautifully considered interiors have made it a sought-after filming location, including for The Dig, but it is first and foremost a much-loved family home.
Our clients purchased Norney Grange in April 2021 and embarked on a thoughtful restoration alongside architect Ian Adam-Smith, carefully preserving the architectural integrity of the house. With the building beautifully restored, we have been invited to help write its next chapter, bringing warmth, colour and personality to the interiors.
Our approach has been quite different from many of our projects. Rather than reimagining the architecture, we are working with it, respecting Voysey's extraordinary vision whilst creating interiors that feel collected, comfortable and entirely personal to the family who live here.
Each room has been developed around a considered palette of colours, fabrics and textures, with a nod to the Arts & Crafts movement woven through the schemes. Our overall approach is rooted in a traditional English aesthetic, layering antique furniture, beautiful old rugs and carefully chosen contemporary pieces to create rooms that feel as though they have evolved naturally over time.
The architecture has presented some wonderful design challenges. Voysey's distinctive windows, deep sills and unusual proportions require a sensitive approach to window treatments. Historically, short curtains would have been commonplace, something that can feel rather unfamiliar today. In some rooms we have embraced this tradition, recognising that the architecture is best left to lead, whilst elsewhere we have introduced full-length curtains to bring softness and elegance. It is this balance between respecting the past and making a house work for modern family life that makes the project so rewarding.
Antiques are playing a particularly important role in the interiors. Alongside a handful of carefully commissioned furniture pieces, we are sourcing individual finds that bring their own stories and character to the house. We have also collaborated with specialist antique rug dealers to find beautiful rugs throughout, introducing the patina, pattern and richness that only pieces with history can offer.
Perhaps most excitingly, we are working with a number of talented contemporary craftspeople, bringing a new generation of makers into a house founded on the principles of craftsmanship. It feels entirely fitting that a home designed during the Arts & Crafts movement should continue to celebrate the skill, creativity and individuality of makers today.
Beyond the house, our clients are lavishing just as much care on the gardens. The restoration of the historic walled garden, complete with a beautiful greenhouse, sits alongside new planting and the creation of a magnolia glade, ensuring that the landscape continues to evolve for generations to come.
Norney Grange is a project about stewardship as much as decoration. We feel incredibly fortunate to be working with clients who have such affection for the house and such a strong desire to protect its history whilst allowing it to evolve. Our ambition is to create interiors that belong completely to Norney Grange, honouring its remarkable past whilst adding another thoughtful layer to its story.