27th November 2025 | IN RESIDENTIAL DESIGN | BY SBID Share Tweet Pinterest LinkedIn Nestled within the storied grounds of an ancient castle, Preserve Cottage is a rare gem – a home imbued with centuries of history and quiet charm. When Khaya Studio was first invited to reimagine the interiors, I knew it would be a project that required equal parts sensitivity and creativity. My clients, a family with a deep affection for the property and its heritage, wanted to modernise their home in a way that respected its timeless character while enhancing its comfort and functionality for contemporary living. The brief centred on expansion and cohesion: to introduce a substantial new extension that would include a kitchen, dining area, and snug – spaces that would become the heart of the home – while ensuring a seamless connection between the original structure and the new addition. My role as interior designer was to guide that transformation with a light yet confident touch, preserving the home’s integrity while creating rooms that feel welcoming, refined, and effortlessly liveable. Bridging old and new The challenge in working with historic properties lies in achieving balance. Any addition must complement, not compete with, the architecture that came before it. At Preserve Cottage, we approached this by using materials and detailing that honoured the home’s narrative. One of the most rewarding design moments was the introduction of bespoke wall panelling that flows gracefully from the original hallway into the new extension. This single gesture created a visual and emotional bridge – allowing the house to unfold naturally, as if it had always been that way. The panelling not only anchors the interiors but also celebrates the craftsmanship and artistry that underpin the property’s history. In every decision, we sought authenticity. Finishes were carefully selected to age beautifully, from softly honed stone and warm timber to handcrafted metalwork and brass accents. The palette remained neutral and calming, allowing the architecture and light to take centre stage. Khaya Studio Khaya Studio Spaces for connection At the core of this project was a desire to create a home that nurtures togetherness. The kitchen and dining space – once separated by awkward circulation – are now part of a generous open-plan area designed for both entertaining and everyday rituals. The snug, with its deep upholstery and layered textures, offers a comforting retreat that feels timeless yet tailored to modern life. One of the most transformative spaces, however, was the former sitting room, which we reimagined as a tranquil library. This room became a sanctuary – a space for quiet reflection, cherished reading, and restorative calm. Soft lighting, natural materials, and tactile fabrics combined to create an atmosphere that encourages stillness and serenity. Design as storytelling What made Preserve Cottage so special was the collaboration between designer and client. Through open conversation, we uncovered the family’s love for travel, art, and craftsmanship – influences that subtly informed the design language throughout. Every piece, from bespoke cabinetry to carefully sourced lighting, was chosen to tell part of their story. This was not about following trends, but about creating an interior that will endure. My design philosophy has always been to create spaces that feel timeless – where every element serves a purpose and where comfort and elegance coexist harmoniously. Khaya Studio Khaya Studio Client feedback Perhaps the greatest measure of success in any project is how it makes the client feel. “Kate helped us with the interior design of our house following extensive building work. It was an absolute pleasure working with her. Her contributions took our house to the next level and gave many rooms the ‘wow factor’. We particularly appreciated Kate’s flexible way of working, adapting what she brings to the client’s needs. She can take on the full design of a room or take a more advisory role when the client prefers to take the lead. At all points, she really took on board our needs and preferences and came up with a proposition that truly reflected what we wanted. We very much hope to continue to work with Kate in the future and could not recommend her enough.” – Laura Rovegno, Client A home reborn Projects like Preserve Cottage remind me why I love what I do. The goal is never to impose, but to enhance – to bring out the best in a building while creating spaces that allow people to live well. When design respects both history and humanity, it creates something truly lasting. About Khaya Studio Kate Fryer is a qualified interior designer with over 15 years of experience creating elegant, timeless interiors across Bristol, Bath and the wider Somerset region. Kate brings a professional yet personal approach to every project. Through her studio, Khaya Studio, Kate specialises in the transformation of period and heritage properties, blending classic architecture with contemporary comfort. Her work is defined by warmth, balance, and a deep respect for craftsmanship – creating homes that feel both sophisticated and lived in. Khaya Studio offers a range of tailored services, from colour consultancy to full turnkey renovation and project management. Every detail is carefully handled, ensuring a seamless process and a truly enjoyable design experience for each client. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.