Scott Brownrigg completes Oakwood House renovation

Scott Brownrigg Interior Design has completed the refurbishment of key areas of Oakwood House, a conference, training centre and events venue in Maidstone, operated by Kent County Council.

The practice was appointed to carry out a feasibility study for Oakwood House, including a review of the existing site and its facilities, identifying key areas for improvement.

Following the completion of the study, Scott Brownrigg was appointed to carry out the design and refurbishment of the bedroom wing.

Although the main building dates back to 1869 and is full of character, the bedroom accommodation is provided in a separate wing built in the 1980s, which had become outdated.

The bedrooms function as accommodation for those attending conferences and weddings at Oakwood.

The client wanted to enhance the design to attract more long-stay guests and to enable the venue to compete more effectively in the wedding and conference market.

Scott Brownrigg's concept for the bedroom wing was to reflect the history and charm of the main building in a fresh and contemporary way.

Inspiration was drawn from the Arts and Craft Movement, which was prevalent at the time the main building was constructed.

The artwork and finishes focus on stylised floral motifs, said to be popular in that period, but the choice of textures, materials and composition brings the design to the present day, with the chosen colour scheme enhancing the design while reinforcing the way-finding strategy.

The FFandE and dressing out work together to create a welcoming environment.

The bathrooms now incorporate black and white tiling, contemporary sanitaryware and polished chrome fittings.

Layout changes have been made to offer baths for the family bathrooms.

The client also required the bridal suite to be improved, in order to help increase wedding bookings.

Scott Brownrigg proposed knocking two bedrooms into one to offer a luxurious suite with a four-poster bed, a walk-in wardrobe, a spacious seating area and a large bathroom with double sinks and a whirlpool bath.

Custom-made furniture based on Victorian style was designed in modern high-gloss finishes to make reference to the history of the main building but remain in-keeping with the modern aesthetic of the 1980s bedroom wing.

Fixtures and fittings include a chandelier, antique mirrors and a rich colour scheme.

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