Attic conversion in the Cotswolds

A Cotswolds Bedroom and En-Suite Design Inspired by the Timeless Charm of the National Trust

In the heart of the idyllic Cotswolds, I was commissioned to transform an underused attic space into a character-rich bedroom and en-suite. The brief was clear: our clients wanted a boutique yet homely sanctuary with the elegance of a National Trust property, blending traditional British design with contemporary comforts. The final result is a light-filled, layered interior where texture, tone, and authenticity take centre stage—crafted to evoke a sense of calm and timelessness.

A Sophisticated Attic Bedroom That Celebrates Architectural Character

Nestled beneath the original timber frame, this attic bedroom conversion showcases the very best of rural Cotswold design. The striking exposed beam, anchors the space and sets the tone for a design scheme that embraces both age and elegance. Clean white walls allow the rustic architecture to breathe while enhancing the feeling of space and light.

This clever use of the eaves transforms what could have been an awkward layout into a welcoming retreat. The sloping ceilings frame the king-sized bed perfectly, creating a cosy alcove while still allowing for openness and airiness.

An Interior Inspired by Nature and the English Countryside

Taking inspiration from the surrounding Cotswold hills and the National Trust’s timeless palette, we leaned into natural tones—chalk whites, olive greens, warm taupes, and rich wood. The result is a natural colour palette that exudes comfort and heritage.

Velvet scatter cushions in deep green sit against tactile white bed linens, inviting rest. An antique-style painting above the bed captures a rural vista, reinforcing the connection to nature and English heritage. Even the smaller styling touches—such as botanical books, cotton stems in ceramics, and woven textures—echo the National Trust’s aesthetic of understated elegance.

Boutique Detailing for Elevated Comfort

Our clients wanted the room to feel luxurious enough for boutique guest accommodation, while still being deeply personal. The answer lay in layering comfort with meaning. A tufted, linen-look loveseat at the foot of the bed adds softness and utility. Brass and crystal wall sconces offer an elegant vintage nod, bathing the space in warm ambient light.

Every bedside table is thoughtfully styled: aged ceramic lamps, handmade vessels, seasonal foliage, and a curated stack of design books—inviting pause and reflection. This isn’t just a bedroom; it’s a mood, a retreat, a slow-living escape from the everyday.

Built-In Storage Designed for Real Life

Attic bedrooms in period homes can present challenges when it comes to storage. We designed and installed bespoke built-in wardrobes to fit snugly within the angles of the room, maximising space while maintaining a clean, traditional look.

Shaker-style doors with brushed brass handles keep the overall look timeless, while inside the cabinetry hides everything from clothes rails to drawers and shelves. Tucked within one of the cupboard spaces is a compact tea station—complete with retro-style fridge, kettle, and cups—ideal for morning coffee or tea in bed.

Across the room, a full-length mirror framed in antique gold not only enhances light and space, but also subtly reinforces the room’s heritage theme.

Creating the En-Suite: Compact Luxury with Classic Influence

The en-suite continues the aesthetic story, balancing contemporary usability with a traditional soul. Clever spatial planning allows for a full shower enclosure, WC, and vanity unit in a relatively compact footprint, without ever feeling cramped.

The standout feature here is the black and white patterned floor tiles, which add a bold, heritage-inspired statement while grounding the otherwise soft and neutral space. These tiles nod to period detailing often found in older British homes, bringing visual interest and timeless charm.

Off-white metro tiles, brushed brass fixtures, and a muted vanity unit tie the look together, maintaining that warm, National Trust-inspired palette.

Cotswolds Interior Design Rooted in Place and Purpose

Designing interiors in the Cotswolds means more than creating something beautiful—it’s about creating something that belongs. This project was deeply influenced by the surrounding landscape, the historic homes nearby, and the clients’ own appreciation for period properties.

The space had to feel personal but not precious, elegant but not over-styled. By leaning into local character—original beams, soft plaster tones, traditional joinery—we ensured the bedroom and en-suite felt authentic to the building and the region.

Whether you’re based in Fairford, Lechlade, Chipping Norton, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, or Tetbury, this style of Cotswolds interior design is perfect for homes that celebrate their architectural roots while embracing contemporary living.

Designed for Guests—or Everyday Luxury

Though this bedroom and en-suite was designed for the clients’ own use, the feel is unmistakably boutique. It would be perfectly suited to high-end guest accommodation, a holiday let, or a luxurious spare room. Every feature was designed with comfort, usability, and atmosphere in mind—from the underfoot textures to the softly layered lighting.

It’s a versatile and timeless space—one that feels as good in the morning light as it does by candlelight.

Photography: @pete.helme