A Charming English Barn Transformed Into an Artist’s Countryside Home

Step inside the charming Grade II-listed home of British artist and author SJ Axelby, tucked away in the Chilterns of England. Originally a barn, the home was transformed by SJ and her family into a character-filled retreat with quirky nooks, unexpected corners, and a beautiful kitchen extension overlooking the garden—the very feature that first made them fall in love with the property.

Inside, SJ’s love of interiors is everywhere. The home is layered with artwork, antiques, and treasured objects collected throughout her life, reflecting the same vibrant, artistic sensibility that has made her interior portraits beloved by design enthusiasts around the world. Her passion for beautiful spaces runs deep: SJ grew up surrounded by antiques, with a mother who restored antique ceramics and a grandfather who restored antique furniture.

From her creative studio in the Chilterns, SJ creates the colorful interior portraits and watercolors featured in her books Interior Portraits and Painted Travels, and she is also the founder of the viral Room Portrait Club on Instagram. Her latest book, Seasonal Living, brings together exquisite illustrations, reflections, and seasonal inspiration from celebrated designers, gardeners, home enthusiasts, and food lovers.

Watch SJ's episode ad-free