Nestled in the attractive hamlet of Little Petherick, just five minutes from Padstow, lies Molesworth Manor, a property that was recently refurbished by Woodford Architecture and Interiors. Originally built in the 17th century and later extended in 1854 by Cornishman Sir Hugh Molesworth, the manor is North Cornwall's new holiday home.
The Manor’s owners wanted to create a unique holiday home with a timeless aesthetic that blends its original Victorian heritage with a more modern order. “Mark and Philippa have such a fun and adventurous spirit that they wanted to bring to the house, using bold colours, wallpapers, fabrics, and patterned tiles," says co-founder of Woodford Architecture, Sarah Woodford, "Mark and Philippa were very much on the same page from the beginning.”
To achieve this unique style, Woodford Architecture’s job was two-fold: to restore and repair some of the original features of the manor, and to modernise it through a reconfigured floor plan and by adding new elements like an updated kitchen, dining room and wellness suite.
Externally, the original features of the building were repaired with new lighting, fixtures and fittings, small tweaks which helped to enhance the character and charm of the property. The garden has been landscaped to blend the local Cornish granite with the native flora and fauna.
The interior changes proved to be more extensive. The first challenge was the floor plan, as it was outdated and not well suited for modern living. “Previously Molesworth Manor was a tired Bed and Breakfast accommodation with lots of small bedrooms, tiny en suites, a very small commercial kitchen at the back of the house, and offices,” explains Woodford Architecture's other co-founder, Gavin Woodford.
To remedy this, Woodford Architecture and Interiors proposed a sensitive reconfiguration of the main house as well as the adjoining coach house to transform the manor into something more akin to a luxury boutique hotel. Reconfiguring the plan made the manor easier to navigate and better suited for guests, as it created larger private bathrooms as well as a multitude of entertainment spaces.
To further revive the history of the house, Woodford used William Morris textiles and lovingly restored the Victorian woodblock flooring that runs throughout the property
Walking past the reception area and into the light-filled morning room, guests will find the spacious living and dining area, which features huge windows, three sparkling chandeliers and a grand dining table. It makes the perfect setting for hosting large glamorous dinner parties.
To the right of the hallway sits the oldest part of the manor; the kitchen, breakfast room and old Coach House. These spaces have an organic, country feel thanks to the use of neutral tones and beautifully upcycled oak furniture. The kitchen features Devol's Bakehouse Green fascias, soft pendant lighting and marble worktops. The Coach House can be accessed through the kitchen where a slate floored lobby and boot room offer practical storage for outdoor clothing and equipment.
The manor features modern luxuries such as a private wellness spa, equipped with two cedar-clad hot tubs and sauna, a spacious cinema room, and a dedicated wine tasting room. There is also a yoga studio that overlooks the expansive garden. These spaces add to the appeal of the property. “The wellness suite is a unique selling point for Molesworth," says Gavin, "we wanted to create a studio suited to a variety of exercise practices including yoga, free weights and rowing. The gym kit purchased is really beautiful all made in oak and leather, so a real treat for the guests to enjoy.”
As well as bountiful common areas, Molesworth Manor boasts seven ensuite bedrooms over two floors, all with their own individual style. From Lewis and Wood's soft blue and white palette in the master bedroom to Little Greene's flamboyant peacock wallpaper, each room is inviting and promises restful slumbers.
Woodford Architecture and Interiors have done a wonderful job at making Molesworth Manor extraordinarily comfortable, where visitors can mingle in the elegant social areas or retire to the cosy nooks and quiet window seats throughout the property. It is an ideal base for exploring Padstow and the surrounding sand and surf of the Seven Bays, but most importantly, it is a place to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family.
Woodford Architecture and Interiors is a member of The List by House & Garden, our essential directory of design professionals. Find their profile here.
