Inside a Historic English Country Home Filled With Heritage and Free-Roaming Animals

In the rolling countryside of Rutland, England, artist and interior designer Katie Cardew has created a historic family home filled with charm, color, and heritage. By chance, Katie discovered the very property where her father once grew up—a moment that felt destined. She and her family embraced the challenge of restoration, with Katie retraining as an interior designer along the way, determined to breathe new life into this beloved home.

Step inside and you’ll find original woodwork lovingly restored, bold and playful color palettes, and a house brimming with personality at every turn. Children play across the gardens, while horses graze nearby and chickens wander straight into the living spaces, making this home feel both magical and deeply alive.

For Katie, creating a space that was beautiful yet functional was just as important as honoring the history of the house. With multiple buildings, a bustling family, and animals always nearby, every room was designed to be lifeproof—able to stand up to daily life without losing its sense of joy and creativity. The result is a home that feels like a celebration of heritage, family, and the enduring magic of the English countryside.