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Cleary & Hall

Central Oxford

Within the heart of Oxford, we crafted a home that honours its Georgian heritage whilst embracing the demands of contemporary living. Designed as a considered journey through space, the house transitions sympathetically from a traditional entrance hallway at the front to a more relaxed, contemporary living area towards the rear. Distinct yet connected, each room works in harmony with the next, creating a cohesive interior that feels both rooted in its setting and beautifully composed.

A Sense of Place

Taking inspiration from Oxford’s enduring tradition of cycling, we designed a bespoke free-standing side table incorporating a hand-crafted bicycle motif as a centrepiece of the entrance hallway. The piece brings an immediate warmth and local character to the space, grounding the interior in its surroundings. It is this kind of thoughtful, singular detail that distinguishes a truly bespoke commission from the ordinary.

Order at the Threshold

A full-height cloak cupboard provides generous, well-considered storage for coats and jackets whilst sitting discreetly within the architectural proportions of the hallway. Soft bench seating at its base introduces a welcoming human scale, offering a natural pause point on entering the home. A full-length mirror positioned above draws light through the space, making the hallway feel open, bright, and inviting.

From Formal to Relaxed

As the house unfolds towards the rear, the design palette shifts with quiet intention. The formal, heritage-conscious character of the entrance gives way to a softer, more contemporary sensibility, with lighter tones and an easy sense of calm. This gradual transition was central to the brief, ensuring the home feels coherent rather than divided, each space a natural continuation of the last.

Refined Throughout

The joinery throughout reflects the Georgian proportions of the building, with cock-beading and carefully considered cabinetry scaled to sit in harmony with the original architecture. Hand-selected materials lend the interior a sense of quiet confidence and permanence. Every detail has been resolved with the same level of care, ensuring the home functions effortlessly as both a family residence and a refined expression of its setting.