A Cottage in Ruins—Transformed!

Megan Harris Megan Harris
Kiko House, RH Casas de Campo Design RH Casas de Campo Design Modern dining room
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A few miles away from the Parque da Peneda Geres in Portugal, an old stone cottage was converted into a contemporary holiday home. The intervention, led by the team at RH Casas de Campo Design, saw the abandoned building completely transformed.

The developers describe the design as combining a rustic style on the exterior with contemporary furnishings and appliances. Fully equipped for complete ease of stay, the interior appears more hotel than charming cottage. It may, or may not, be exactly how you would have seen the bones of this charming dwelling brought back to life, but let's take a step inside and you can decide that for yourself!

The original exterior

Here we see the original, dilapidated condition of the dwelling. Abandoned, neglected, in a state of complete disrepair, the stone walls are black with moss and grime and the roof is made of flimsy corrugated iron. 

The whole thing looks like it could collapse at any moment—but, that's not the end of it's story…

The transformation

Reincarnated, the dwelling now has a new life as a luxury holiday home.  The beautiful stone construction has been repaired, the roofing replaced, and new windows and doors inserted. It is barely recognisable! 

A small courtyard has been formed out front, guarded by a low stone perimeter fence. Foliage grows up and around the building, colouring the neutral facade.

The living space

Stepping inside, we see that the rustic cottage style of the exterior is taken over by something different. The interior is characterised by a hotel-like quality. 

The chocolate colour scheme, the furniture selections, the surfaces—it's hard to put you finger on exactly what it is that makes you feel like you've stepped into a contemporary hotel suite, but it's unmistakable!

For more living space inspiration, take a look here!

The staircase

The staircase to the upper level, which contains the bedroom and en-suite, is left open to the living space. Enhancing the feeling of connection between the two levels, the natural timber stair is one of the most delightful design features in the interior. 

For more on all spaces transitional, take a look at these corridors, hallways, and stairs!

The bedroom

And now to the bedroom—the space most true to the hotel-esque aesthetic! Complete with bundled towels and robes on the bed, the space delivers all the luxuries promised by a hotel vacation stay. 

The chocolate brown colour scheme is continued in this space, and a plush floor rug adds a final splash of opulence. For more bedroom ideas, you're sure to find something that piques your interest here.

If you enjoyed your tour through this home, you may also like to take a look at Before and After—an Unbelievable Transformation!

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