Where Functionality Meets Coastal Charm: Your Ultimate Race Week Destination

Crafting a Strategic Home Base for Sailing Enthusiasts

Richard Calder, proprietor of Charm Diamond Centres and an enthusiastic sailor, found the perfect solution for accommodating his sailing team during Chester Race Week: converting a local house into a dedicated guest retreat. His existing two-bedroom property, while picturesque, lacked the capacity for his large crew. This led to the acquisition of an 1,800-square-foot, three-bedroom house, envisioned as a welcoming haven for his "Brilliance" team.

The Vision and the Tight Timeline: A Designer's Challenge

Jonathan Legate was enlisted to overhaul the recently purchased house with specific mandates: no structural additions, preservation of the home's original summer cottage character, and a strict ten-month deadline to be ready for the 2025 Race Week. Richard sought improved flow on the main floor, an additional bedroom, and a principal ensuite, all within the existing footprint.

Ingenious Spatial Reconfiguration for Enhanced Living

Legate's design prowess shone through in his clever spatial reconfigurations. He carved out an upstairs ensuite and a bunk room from the existing stair landing. Downstairs, the former living area was transformed into a spacious dining room. A widened doorway between the kitchen and dining room now features a bar, creating an open pass-through and additional counter space, seamlessly connecting to the new living area.

The Heart of the Home: A Striking Fireplace and Playful Ceilings

Richard identifies the impressive stone fireplace in the new living room as a key element and a worthwhile investment, anchoring the space with its grandeur. Both owner and designer celebrate the bold wallpaper choices on the dining room and kitchen ceilings, which infuse the home with a sense of whimsy and distinctive style, adding to its vibrant character.

Holistic Renovation: Interiors, Exteriors, and Practicality

Beyond the major layout changes, the renovation extended to a complete refresh of the kitchen and existing bathrooms. All windows were updated for efficiency and aesthetics. The exterior received a striking makeover, transitioning from taupe to a crisp white, complemented by a sky-blue veranda ceiling and a vivid red front door, enhancing its curb appeal.

Embracing Chester's Timeless Cottage Aesthetic

Jonathan Legate drew inspiration from his childhood memories of Chester's relaxed, summer-focused cottage style. This influence is evident in the home's eclectic blend of colors, patterns, antiques, and maritime artwork. Richard's preference for blue hues further cemented the contemporary yet distinctly nautical aesthetic, ensuring a design that feels both fresh and rooted in tradition.

The Strategic Integration of Durable and Stylish Tilework

Throughout the home, the extensive use of tilework stands out as both a stylish and practical choice. Despite initial reservations from Richard, Jonathan's vision for floor-to-ceiling tile in areas like the compact mudroom proved successful, adding visual interest, texture, and simplifying maintenance, making it ideal for a high-traffic guest house.

Harmonious Color Palettes and Textile Choices

To balance the vibrant blues and bold patterns, Jonathan strategically employed white-painted floors and neutral elements like jute rugs. Pops of strong contrasting colors, such as red accents and patterned wallpapers and bedding, create a lively yet cohesive interior, ensuring that each space feels dynamic and inviting without being overwhelming.

A Gathering Hub: Designed for Celebration and Connection

The redesigned guest house perfectly embodies the spirit of Race Week, offering competition by day and camaraderie by night. Its open-plan living areas, including the new bar, facilitate an easy flow for entertaining. The expansive wraparound veranda and a newly rebuilt barn on the property provide additional venues for social gatherings, making it the premier address for Race Week festivities.