Christopher Howe, a noted antiques dealer and the founder of Howe London, recently redesigned a former barn in the Cotswolds known as Barton Meadow Lodge. Located near the village of Guiting Power, this one-bedroom property sits on five acres of rolling countryside. The restoration project took eight-and-a-half weeks to complete, resulting in a space that emphasizes texture and character over pristine finishes.
Howe opted for materials like lime-washed timber and antique furniture to give the home an authentic, lived-in aesthetic. The design includes a custom Plain English kitchen and French doors that lead to wildflower meadows and a nearby brook. To maintain a sense of genuine use, Howe instructed builders to avoid covering floors with protective plastic during the work, allowing for the natural marks of daily activity to settle into the oak.
Barton Meadow Lodge is currently listed for £1 million, or approximately $1.3 million, through the Blue Book Agency. While the property offers high-end design, planning restrictions mandate that it remains a holiday home rather than a full-time primary residence. Prospective buyers have the option to purchase much of the existing furniture separately from the property itself.
Lindsay Cuthill of Blue Book Agency notes that the home balances craftsmanship with modern practicality. The property provides a rare example of a space that feels carefully curated without appearing contrived. It stands as a representation of Howe’s long-standing design philosophy of blending global antiques with local, natural materials.