Set on the edge of the historic Failand Estate, this charming Grade II Listed Coach House sits within a tranquil country setting surrounded by National Trust farmland and Forestry Commission woodland. Approached via a long driveway, the property enjoys a rare sense of privacy and rural calm, despite its close proximity to Clifton Village.
Originally built as an ancillary estate building, the Coach House has evolved over time into a private residence, retaining the proportions and architectural character typical of historic coach houses found throughout Bristol’s rural fringes. Generous ceiling heights, original detailing and established gardens give the property a strong sense of place, with both a secluded rear garden and a characterful front courtyard featuring a striking loggia.
Prior to our involvement, the property had been modernised and had lost much of its original charm and individuality. The clients approached Khaya Studio to help make the house feel special once again - seeking a home that felt timeless, characterful and lived in, while remaining practical for contemporary country living. As interior designers specialising in period property renovation across Bristol, Bath and Somerset, this project offered the perfect opportunity to reintroduce warmth, heritage and quiet elegance to a historic home.
Our design approach focused on restoring authenticity, warmth and proportion to this grand home, while ensuring the spaces felt comfortable, practical and lived in for modern life. Our first recommendation was to establish a stronger foundation within the hallway and principal living spaces. The existing carpet felt at odds with the period of the property, so we proposed natural limestone flagstones - more in keeping with a historic coach house and ideal for layering textured rugs. Underfloor heating was incorporated to enhance comfort while discreetly supporting contemporary living.
The colour palette was inspired by the surrounding landscape and the clients’ love of gardening. Soft, dusty greens were paired with warm, earthy orange tones to bring the outdoors in, while maintaining a welcoming, cocooning feel. Although the living and dining areas are open plan, subtle distinction was created through colour: the living space wrapped in green to feel grounded and intimate, and the dining area finished in a pale neutral to keep it light and relaxed.
Proportion and scale were central to the design. With generous ceiling heights and expansive proportions, the existing furniture felt disconnected. The original fireplace - the heart of the room - was celebrated with an oversized antique mirror echoing the home’s leaded windows, flanked by brass candle sconces. A striped loveseat was positioned beside the hearth, appearing as though it had always belonged there.
A large antique sideboard was introduced to discreetly house the television and provide storage, while a three-seater sofa was positioned within the window alcove, flanked by antique side tables and anchored by a brass coffee table. A quiet reading corner was created opposite, complete with an armchair, floor lamp and a treasured portrait of the client’s grandfather, which was integral to the scheme. The living area was unified with a generously scaled patterned rug, drawing together the colour palette.
In the dining space, bespoke banquette seating was designed to maximise seating and hidden storage, layered with cushions for comfort. An antique dining table sits at the centre, crowned by a floral-inspired pendant, while a picture light highlights artwork of personal significance. Throughout the scheme we sought to balance respect for the building’s heritage with timeless interior design, ensuring the Coach House once again feels special, soulful and deeply personal.
The completed scheme is a home that feels deeply considered, timeless and full of quiet confidence - one that honours its historic origins while supporting the rhythms of modern family life. What was once a space that had lost its charm has been transformed into a layered, characterful interior that feels both elevated and entirely welcoming.
Natural materials, carefully balanced colour palettes and thoughtfully scaled furnishings now work in harmony with the architecture of the Coach House. Original features have been celebrated rather than overshadowed, and each space feels cohesive, warm and beautifully resolved. The result is an interior that feels as though it has evolved naturally over time, rather than being overly designed.
It was an absolute joy to work on this project with such wonderful clients, and we felt truly honoured to be invited into this beautiful home. The collaborative nature of the process, combined with a shared appreciation for heritage and detail, allowed the design to develop in a way that exceeded even our own expectations.
We hope the family will enjoy these spaces for many years to come - gathering, unwinding and creating countless new memories within a home that once again feels special, personal and full of life.
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.
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Sometimes, the most transformative design stories unfold not in grand drawing rooms or sprawling extensions, but in the humble, hardworking spaces of a home. The Colchester Avenue Utility project is a perfect example - a reminder that every corner of a house deserves beauty, care, and thoughtful consideration.
When the clients first approached Khaya Studio, their utility room had become a damp, neglected space that no one enjoyed spending time in. As is often the case, it had evolved organically over time, serving multiple functions without ever being properly designed for them. The result was a room that worked hard, but not well - lacking storage, light, and any sense of warmth or joy.
Our goal was simple: to restore order, functionality, and charm. But beneath that, it was also about changing the way this space made the family feel. We began by addressing the practical issues first - ensuring the room was dry, well-ventilated, and properly finished. The walls were boarded to combat damp, and new flooring was laid to provide a clean, solid base for the design to follow.
Next came the cabinetry - the cornerstone of any utility room. We commissioned bespoke joinery to house the washing machine and dryer, concealing the appliances within beautifully detailed cabinetry that felt integrated and intentional. A deep ceramic sink and elegant tap added a touch of refinement, while open shelving provided a place for baskets, jars, and laundry essentials. Every inch was designed to make daily routines feel calmer and more enjoyable.
Once the structure was right, the real transformation came through colour. The cabinetry was finished in a bright, uplifting coral, and the walls painted a soft, warm pink - a combination that instantly shifted the mood of the room. What had once been a gloomy, utilitarian space became light-filled, cheerful, and full of personality.
Colour is one of the most powerful tools we have as designers, capable of changing how we feel in a space almost instantly. In this case, the palette introduced optimism - a sense of energy and warmth that reflected the family’s personality and made the room a place to enjoy rather than endure.
The Colchester Avenue Utility project may be small in scale, but it represents something much larger: the belief that every space in a home should contribute to a sense of wellbeing. When designed with intention, even the most functional rooms can spark joy and add daily ease to family life.
In every project I take on - whether it’s a full-scale renovation or the redesign of a single space - I look for ways to combine practicality with beauty. The result is a home that not only looks wonderful but also feels good to live in.
One of the greatest compliments came from the client after completion, when she told me that the utility room had become her “happy place” - a small but meaningful transformation that made household tasks feel lighter and more enjoyable.
That, for me, is the essence of good design: creating spaces that improve the rhythm of everyday life, making even the simplest moments feel beautiful.
The Roath Park House project presented a wonderful opportunity to explore the intersection of heritage and modern living - a design philosophy at the heart of everything we do at Khaya Studio. This distinguished period home, with its elegant proportions and recent extension, offered the perfect canvas for a sensitive transformation. Our clients approached us seeking a home that felt cohesive, warm, and deeply personal - one that would embrace contemporary functionality without compromising the property’s original spirit.
As with many homes of this era, Roath Park House possessed a natural grandeur - high ceilings, generous windows, and beautiful architectural detailing - but also certain constraints that reflected a more formal way of living. The elongated layout created a sense of distance between spaces, leaving the home feeling disjointed and slightly austere. Our brief was to soften this sense of formality, creating flow and balance while ensuring that each room retained its unique identity.
We began by defining a clear sense of arrival. The long entrance hallway, once a simple passageway, was reimagined as a welcoming transitional space. A striking piece of artwork now anchors the view upon entry, complemented by a carefully styled sideboard that adds warmth and personality. These elements not only bring visual interest but also introduce a feeling of calm - setting the tone for the rest of the home.
Further into the property, we turned our attention to spaces that had been overlooked or underused. The “back room,” once little more than a utility area, was transformed into a multi-functional gym and laundry space - a design solution that elegantly balances practicality with beauty. We introduced custom joinery to conceal appliances and equipment, paired with tactile materials and a soothing palette that elevates the room far beyond its utilitarian purpose. The result is a space that feels purposeful and uplifting, proving that functionality and design integrity can coexist seamlessly.
The home’s rear garden - previously a cold, paved expanse - also underwent a complete transformation. Inspired by the clients’ love of entertaining, we designed a lush, green oasis perfect for alfresco dining and intimate gatherings. Layered planting, warm lighting, and natural materials now create a space that feels like an extension of the interior - a private sanctuary that encourages connection and rest.
Every element of the Roath Park House redesign was guided by a deep respect for the property’s 1920s origins. Throughout, we curated a selection of furnishings, art, and objects that bridge the decades - each piece chosen to feel authentic and enduring.
A light, refined palette of soft neutrals and warm woods provides the backdrop for moments of quiet drama - a sculptural lamp, a bold abstract painting, a statement armchair. Furniture was chosen for its graceful proportions, ensuring that each room feels airy and balanced, with enough negative space for the architecture to breathe.
The overall effect is one of quiet confidence: an interior that feels layered and lived-in, yet considered and cohesive.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was witnessing how the clients reconnected with their home. What was once a house of formality is now a place of comfort and expression - a home that reflects the rhythm of modern family life while celebrating the beauty of its past.
At Khaya Studio, we believe good design should feel effortless. It should tell the story of the people who live within the space, and it should evolve naturally over time. Projects like Roath Park House remind us that great design is not about reinvention - it’s about reinterpretation, finding beauty in the dialogue between old and new.
Working on period homes requires patience, adaptability, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. There’s a certain poetry in working within constraints - finding creative solutions that honour what’s already there. Whether through the subtle detailing of a cornice or the placement of a contemporary artwork against a time-worn wall, each decision at Roath Park House was made with the aim of balance - where heritage and modernity coexist in harmony.
Bramble 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.
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 Bramble 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.
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.
What made Bramble 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.
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.” - Bramble Cottage Client
Projects like Bramble 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.
Kate Fryer, Founder of Khaya Studio, has given her insights into the industry.
I graduated with a BA (Hons) in Interior Design and have since spent over 15 years immersed in the world of interiors - designing and managing projects across residential, retail, and hospitality spaces around the globe. Each project, whether a boutique store in London or a serene family home by the coast, has shaped my approach and deepened my understanding of how thoughtfully designed spaces can enhance the way we live.
Today, my focus lies primarily in residential interior design - and it’s where I feel most at home. I’m passionate about creating interiors with warmth, character, and quiet elegance, spaces that tell the story of the people who live within them. Forming close, collaborative relationships with my clients is at the heart of what I do, ensuring every home we create together feels deeply personal and effortlessly inviting.
I’ve always been fascinated by the way our surroundings influence how we feel and behave. From a young age, I found joy in rearranging spaces and noticing how light, texture, and colour could completely transform a room’s mood. Over time, that fascination evolved into a desire to help others feel truly at home in their environments - creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply nurturing and personal. Interior design felt like the perfect combination of creativity, psychology, and practicality.
For me, the most rewarding part of the process is the transformation - not just of the physical space, but of how my clients feel in their homes. Seeing someone walk into a finished project for the first time and witnessing that moment of joy and connection is incredibly fulfilling. I also love the storytelling aspect of design - uncovering what inspires each client and translating that into a cohesive, timeless interior.
This year has been particularly special as one of my recent projects, The Preserve Cottage, was featured in Good Homes Magazine. It’s always such an honour to see my work recognised in a publication, especially when it celebrates the warmth and individuality that my clients and I created together. Becoming an Associate of the SBID has also been a highlight - it’s a real milestone to be recognised by such a respected professional body.
I have a deep love for period and heritage homes. They hold so much character, and I find great satisfaction in honouring that history while adapting the spaces for modern living. I enjoy creating interiors that feel timeless - layering natural materials, craftsmanship, and thoughtful details so that each project tells a story and stands the test of time.
Balancing creativity with logistics can be one of the biggest challenges. Design is only part of the process - managing timelines, budgets, and the many moving parts of a renovation requires constant communication and flexibility. Unexpected issues will always arise, but experience has taught me that how you handle them makes all the difference.
That interior design is as much about people as it is about spaces. You need to be a good listener, a problem solver, and sometimes even a mediator! The ability to understand and interpret your clients’ needs, often before they can fully articulate them themselves, is such an important skill - and one that develops with experience.
Stay curious and be authentic. Don’t chase trends - instead, take time to understand proportion, light, and materiality, and develop your own design language. The best interiors come from confidence in your vision and a genuine understanding of how people live.
I think we’ll continue to see a shift toward more sustainable and “healthy” interiors - using natural materials, eco-conscious manufacturing, and timeless design that lasts. Clients are increasingly aware of how their homes affect their wellbeing, and designers have a real opportunity to lead the way in creating spaces that feel good for both people and the planet.
It’s a great honour and a mark of professional recognition. The SBID sets a benchmark for excellence in design practice, ethics, and education, and being an Associate member represents a commitment to upholding those standards. For me, it’s also about being part of a wider community that supports and celebrates the profession - something that feels both grounding and inspiring.
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