- Interior
- Architecture & development
Woodland House, located in the countryside of Surrey, sits within nearly eighteen acres of surrounding parkland. The estate reflects the character of a traditional English country estate, both through its architecture and its relationship with the landscape around it. Mature gardens and open lawns frame the property, giving it a quiet and secluded presence. Despite it being a traditional English country estate, the project was not intended to feel dated. Instead, the aim was to create a home that preserves this traditional character while still responding to the needs of contemporary family life.
The interiors were designed by Banda Design Studio, an international practice that works across architecture, development, and interior design. Founded by Edo Mapelli Mozzi, the studio focuses on creating homes that feel aesthetically pleasing, yet comfortable to live in. For Woodland House, the client approached Banda with a clear vision. They wanted a house that felt warm, welcoming, and filled with natural light, while still maintaining a traditional feel. For this project, Banda respected the existing architectural structure and built the interior concept around it. Rather than drastically altering the house, the designers focused on introducing natural materials, carefully selected furnishings, and subtle details that soften the overall atmosphere. 
Large French windows bring in generous daylight and frame views of the surrounding gardens, allowing the natural setting to remain constantly present
The estate itself is expansive, measuring over almost 1.400 square meter and containing nine bedrooms, several reception rooms, studies, a cinema room, and family living spaces. A contemporary extension forms the central hub of the house, opening the interior toward the surrounding gardens. Large French windows bring in generous daylight and frame views of the surrounding gardens, allowing the natural setting to remain constantly present. The kitchen and adjoining family spaces are especially important within the layout, functioning as the everyday centre of the home where cooking, conversation, and family life take place.
A defining aspect of the interior design is the careful selection of materials and textures. The palette mainly consists of soft neutral tones with subtle rust tones that bring warmth throughout the entire structure. Natural materials, including limestone, travertine, marble, and various types of wood, define the interior. Additionally, textiles such as linen, velvet, mohair, and bouclé are used in many of the furniture pieces. Banda also incorporated custom-designed pieces alongside vintage artworks. For example in the drawing room, caramel mohair sofas are placed beneath eighteenth-century Aubusson tapestries, blending historical craftsmanship and contemporary design to form a cohesive whole.
With the Woodland House, Banda demonstrates how a traditional country estate can be adapted to suit modern living while maintaining its architectural history. Natural materials, soft colours, and carefully composed interiors make the house feel complete. Woodland House honours its heritage while still feeling calm and comfortable for everyday family life.
Photography by Jake Curtis
Text by Ellen De Meyer