The project will embrace the Grade 2 listed house built in 1697 – that was home to garden designer, Rosemary Verey from 1951-2001 – and the companion, Village Pub.

Calcot Health and Leisure Limited bought Barnsley House and The Village Pub in July 2009 and is now looking to reconnect the house and Rosemary Verey’s gardens so as to create a greater synergy between the two.

“The hip, contemporary style for which this hotel is already known will be retained and enhanced, however a greater spotlight will now be placed on the heritage, setting and romance of the property,” explains Richard Ball. “The strikingly modern niche Barnsley House has already carved for itself – amongst a young and highly discerning clientele – is very valuable and mustn’t be lost. Yet, without compromising its ‘edginess’, the hotel’s snappy appeal can be widened by making what already exists more elegant, chic and comfortable in order to become truly luxurious.

“Fox Linton instantly recognised what we are seeking to achieve,” adds Richard, “and had an immediate empathy with our stance. Their design concept is likely to draw much inspiration from Rosemary Verey’s book, “Making of a Garden” with garden flavours strongly reflected in the interiors.”

Fox Linton’s Design Director, Martin Hulbert picks up this theme, saying “By reconnecting Barnsley House with Rosemary Verey’s gardens one will complement the other more fluidly and there will be a definite softening of the edges where presently there is some jarring.  Expect a refreshed look that will be exquisite, intimate and relaxed yet unconstrained, captivating, snappy, dashing and a little bit natty.”

Hulbert is himself from Gloucestershire and recognises the importance of working with local manufacturers, craftspeople and other specialists based in the area. “The Barnsley House project has to be totally authentic, with Cotswolds credibility and sustainability,” he emphasises.

The first stage of the project will commence in November with a reworking of the Village Pub, just opposite the hotel, ahead of re-opening in mid-January. The Village Pub will be re-energised, in true Cotswold spirit, as a pub at the heart of its local community.  The next phase of the project will then begin in February when the 18 bedrooms, and public areas, restaurant and bar of Barnsley House will be addressed as will be the Spa, tucked away in a discreet nook of the gardens.

www.barnsleyhouse.com