A DREAM SCHEME

Modern additions and art deco-inspired interiors have revived Sadie and Justin Tew’s period cottage

- ALI HEATH

Every time Sadie Tew returns home she is reminded of why she was initially drawn to her house. ‘We’re surrounded by horse paddocks, country lanes, open fields, the village duck pond and beautiful walks,’ says Sadie. ‘It’s my sanctuary.’ And now a forever space shared with artist husband Justin and their nine-year-old son Jolyon.

‘I visited the nearby town of Woburn for a friend’s wedding and loved the area,’ says Sadie. ‘I then came to view this house on a whim and it literally wrapped its arms around me.’ Fast forward 23 years and the original farm cottages are now juxtaposed with two contemporary extensions accommodating an open-plan space with a kitchen, cosy living and dining areas, and a vaulted master bedroom suite with a study above.

The timber-clad extensions, sympathetic to the local architecture, open onto an elegant pool and pale limestone patio area, that has been artfully landscaped. In the summer, the feel is Mediterranean chic meets contemporary country, with a delightful selection of trees and sculptural topiary.