Great Westwood

Hertfordshire

Location: Hertfordshire

Project Type: Country Estate

Project Management: London Hill

Interior Design: Margot Tsim

The estate, situated in the Hertfordshire countryside, comprises a Grade II-listed Georgian residence set within forty acres of grounds, including formal gardens, traditional barns, cottages, and outbuildings.

As a long-term partner, in collaboration with the estate’s property managers and professional project team, Barr Build have delivered four distinct work phases for the estate, including renovation of the Museum, the guest cottage, the gatehouse and staff accommodation facilities.

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Barr Build Great Westwood Country Estate

“It has been a wonderful experience collaborating with Barr Build on our Hertfordshire project. Their team is highly collaborative and always on hand to listen to the needs of both the wider team and the clients, ensuring the entire process is as seamless as possible.”

Margot Tsim, Design Studio Founder

Project Overview

Ongoing works for Great Westwood have included the renovation and conversion of several ancillary buildings, each one an integral part of the wider estate offering.

The estate’s private museum was extended to expand the exhibition space. The refurbishment included the addition of bespoke matched display cabinetry, as well as additional washroom facilities and a new outside entertaining space.

The cottage, an existing two-storey timber-clad building adjacent to the museum, was extended and refurbished – converting it into a mixed-use meeting space and guest accommodation. The footprint was increased through the addition of a gable extension, and an open-plan kitchen and living space was created.

The gatehouse, a low-rise dwelling to the south of the estate, was reconfigured and refurbished to provide luxury open-plan living space and guest accommodation. A contemporary interior scheme, aligned with that in The Cottage, brought synergy to the collective works.

Staff facilities for the estate included the conversion of timber-framed garaging into a self-contained apartment with ensuite accommodation and kitchen-living space, and the creation of a staff welfare suite, also with kitchen facilities and a relaxation/lounge area.

Design Actualisation

Classic, contemporary, and luxurious interiors were achieved through the precise actualisation of Margot Tsim’s detailed interior design and specification.

Quality and Cohesion

A considered, pared-down aesthetic highlights the integrity of the traditional architecture of the cottage and gatehouse. Thoughtful use of high-quality materials ensures harmony between old and new.

Considered Proportions

Despite modest ceiling heights, a seamless flow was achieved, with arched openings and soft curves subtly tying spaces together.

Statement Features

Sculpted staircases became defining features, elevating and complementing the unassuming character of the estates' ancillary properties.

Up Close

Design and Construction Detailing

20250312 Great Weston Hall refurbishment renovation country estate 006

“At London Hill, we seek out project partners with a philosophy which mirrors our own. Barr Build’s commitment to excellence and proactive, collaborative approach played a huge part in achieving exceptional project outcomes.”

Oli Lewis-Donaldson, London Hill

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From the Journal

Spotlight on Hertfordshire country estate renovation

The Cottage, The Gatehouse and The Museum... exactingly renovated and elegantly designed to offer the ultimate in guest and visitor comfort.

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