Guy Ritchie’s Farmhouse Blends Colonial American and English Pub Style

Renowned film director Guy Ritchie has collaborated with antiques dealer and interior designer Edward Hurst to reimagine a farmhouse on his estate. This transformation was intended to convert the farmhouse into a guest house suitable for shooting parties and various gatherings.

Colonial American and English Pub Influence

Hurst’s vision for the farmhouse melds the charm of colonial Williamsburg with the ambiance of an English pub. He explains, “It needed to be ‘American inn meets English pub,’ but comfortable.” The design reflects a narrative that intertwines history and comfort, aligning well with Ritchie’s cinematic background.

Meeting of Minds

The collaboration originated from Ritchie and Hurst’s social connections at parties in Dorset. Ritchie admired Hurst’s previous projects, recognizing his keen attention to detail. Edward emphasizes the importance of a client’s vision, stating, “I love a client with a clear vision that you incorporate into the project.”

Historical Inspirations and Artifacts

• Open Fire Cooking: A key feature catering to Ritchie’s personal culinary passion.
• Antique Furnishings: Simple, sturdy furniture sourced from Hurst’s collection enhances the farmhouse’s historic aesthetic.
• Unique Decor: Quirky art complements the farmhouse’s overall narrative.

Among these artifacts are muskets above the fireplace, which Hurst found at a French street market a decade ago. These items embody the colonial inn theme, essential for the design. “It was very immediate to me that there needed to be muskets there,” Hurst recalls, noting that these pieces reflect his fascination with 18th-century engravings.

Elements that Tell a Story

Hurst’s experience in collecting antiques since childhood significantly informed the decoration process. His pieces were not only visually appealing but also steeped in history. For example, the muskets dated back to the Napoleonic era, adding depth to the farmhouse’s narrative.

Design Cohesion and Aesthetic Flow

The farmhouse, believed to have been built in the 18th century, underwent expansion to accommodate modern needs. Hurst harnessed this opportunity to showcase the property’s timeline through careful decoration. “With this house, you have very much the 18th-century ground floor elements,” he explains.

Upstairs, the bedrooms feature a variety of wallpapers that maintain a consistent decorative language while celebrating the aesthetics of Ritchie’s estate, Ashcombe, which once belonged to Cecil Beaton.

Conclusion

The renovation of Ritchie’s farmhouse beautifully fuses colonial American charm with English pub style. The thoughtful curation of antiques and design choices narrate a rich history that enhances the guest experience while reflecting both Hurst’s and Ritchie’s distinct tastes.