Calera & Chozas
Rustic Elegance: A Cozy Countryside Retreat Designed for Connection
One of our favorite projects was the redesign of this charming countryside house, where we had the freedom to experiment with color, mood, and a mix of antiques and countryside-style furniture to craft the perfect weekend retreat. The living room, in particular, stands out with its seamless connection to the outdoors. We chose Farrow and Ball’s Cromarty green for the walls, which beautifully echoed the lush garden views just outside.
The mint sofas, accented with pops of purple and pink, added vibrancy to the space. A vintage mirror placed above the fireplace not only anchored the room but also reflected a striking collection of mounted deer heads, adding a rustic yet elegant touch that complemented the countryside setting and completed the cozy, inviting atmosphere.
“We designed the space around the chimney to be a cozy, inviting spot where small chairs, stools, and pillows create a sense of closeness, perfect for shared moments and connection.”
The chimney is our favorite spot in the house, radiating warmth and inviting people to gather. We envisioned it as a cozy hub where, during the winter months, friends and family could sit around, engage in conversation, and share meaningful moments.
Our goal was to make this area a true place of connection, which is why we carefully curated small chairs, stools, banquettes, and an assortment of pillows to create an intimate, communal atmosphere. Nestled close to the rug, this arrangement feels like a mystical meeting spot, perfect for bringing people together in comfort and closeness.
These Napoleon III armchairs were purchased in an almost destroyed state, but their shape captivated us, and they were exactly what we had been searching for. To blend modernity with a rustic touch while honoring the traditional design of the chair, we selected a quirky fabric in vibrant poppy green, yellow, and pink tones.
The bold pattern was key in bringing a fresh, contemporary feel to the otherwise classic silhouette, transforming the chairs into eye-catching pieces that perfectly bridge the old with the new.
Designing the rooms was an incredibly fun and creative process, and we began by focusing on color as the foundation for each space. Our goal was for each room to have its own distinct identity, making it easy for guests to recognize and connect with them. This approach led to the creation of what we affectionately call the Blue Room, Pink Room, Green Room, and Terracotta Room.
The Pink Room is probably our favorite, thanks to the perfect shade Pink Ground from Farrow and Ball, which set the tone for the entire space. We complemented the soft pink walls with rich green curtains and a matching green lamp adorned with Ikat lampshades.
To add depth and character, we incorporated a collection of antiques—old chairs, trunks, tables, and a mix of antique pottery that brought a sense of history and charm. For a fun twist, we introduced a vibrant painting we discovered at an auction and a colorful Murano-style mirror, giving the countryside-style bedroom a playful and unexpected touch.
For the Blue Room, we selected Farrow and Ball’s Selvedge, a soft, calming blue that set a serene backdrop. To add a playful contrast, we paired it with pink accents, including striped pink applique lampshades that brought a touch of whimsy. The pop of color from the bold red side tables adds an unexpected, fun mix to the room. A highlight of this space is the set of four antique paintings we found at an auction; their frames were the perfect fit, adding an elegant and timeless charm to the room’s overall design.
One of our favorite pieces in this house is a striking red antique chair, featuring a woven image of what appears to be a gaucho. This chair commands attention in a cozy corner, where it creates a stunning contrast against a Portuguese painted tapestry adorned with whimsical monkeys. The unexpected juxtaposition of the bold, rustic chair with the playful elegance of the tapestry adds a unique layer of character to the space, making it a true conversation starter.
When it came to the exterior fabrics, we found ourselves torn between choosing green or red stripes. In the end, we decided to embrace both! For the front terrace, we opted for the vibrant green stripes, bringing a fresh and lively feel to the space. Meanwhile, the back garden terrace features the bold red stripes, creating a cozy, warm atmosphere.
