A Historic English Countryside Workers Cottage
After spending many holidays in Norfolk, England, Jolene Marshall couldn’t wait to realize her dream of transforming a historic property for others to enjoy and experience the magic of life in the English countryside. She discovered this 19th-century home, lovingly nicknamed “The Workers Cottage,” in 2020 and instantly fell in love with its charm and history. Although its previous owners had not updated it in decades, Jolene envisioned transforming the space into an elevated heritage-style holiday cottage filled with character and romance in every corner.
Jolene took on the home as a full-service design project from the initial concept to the final touches. Today, the cottage is completely restored from top to bottom and is available to rent for guests lucky enough to travel back in time for their holiday and experience each detail of Jolene’s work. Read on for more about how she brought this rural retreat to life.
Design: Jolene Marshall – Landed Projects | Photography: Mark Anthony Fox
Timeless Victorian Charm
Originally built around 1850, this two-story double-fronted Victorian cottage would have historically been just four rooms had the previous owner not added a two-story extension to the back of the house in the early 80s. When Jolene remodeled the home, she turned the ground floor into a spacious kitchen and placed the primary bedroom with an ensuite bath on the first floor. Although the project has transformed the space in many ways, the cottage still displays a few original invaluable features, such as the beamed ceilings and exposed flint walls.
The Charming Interiors
A blend of old-world charm and contemporary elegance set the tone for the interiors and furnishings throughout. Jolene carefully updated the spaces for modern functionality while maintaining a timeless aesthetic at home in Victorian architecture.
Custom touches, such as bespoke headboards in the twin bedroom, handcrafted café curtains, and voiles with French ruffle headings in the kitchen and bathrooms, elevate the living spaces. The curated selection of unique finds adds character and charm to every corner.
The Outdoor Bath Cabin
The pièce de résistance lies in the heart of the garden—an enchanting outdoor bath cabin. Meticulously crafted from reclaimed wood, this haven offers a tranquil retreat. A large tin bath, accompanied by a copper shower, creates a sanctuary cocooned in weathered timber.
A classical bateau design of the freestanding bath exemplifies the elegance and style of a bygone era. This elegance and style, combined with the natural finish and simple shape, make this bath just as relevant and sought after for modern use today as bateau baths once were.
A linen shower curtain adds privacy and creates a spa-like atmosphere. Just imagine taking a bath here with a view of the surrounding gardens — we’d move right in!
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BY: ANASTASIA CASEY