As you may already be aware, besides writing our blog, Mum’s real job is doing interiors. So when she heard that RH (formerly Restoration Hardware), the renowned American luxury home furnishings purveyor, has unveiled a stunning gallery in the picturesque county of Oxfordshire. Offering an exquisite selection of furniture, lighting, textiles, bathware, decor, and outdoor items, this establishment has piqued Mum’s curiosity, igniting an eagerness to explore it firsthand.
While the gallery warmly welcomes dogs, Mum sensibly decided it wouldn’t be too relaxing bringing the two of us to the showroom. So George went to day care and I got to go along. Also because Mum thought if needed be, I could be in her bag.
About an hour and a half drive from London, Aynhoe Park is a rare Grade 1 listed landmark, and an exceptional example of British architect Sir John Soane’s work.
And we were not disappointed.
I was wearing my new jumper from Salvatore Paws that Aunty Ju-li had given me – and I blended perfectly with the neutral decor!
In fact, it was handy that I got to go instead of George. The weather had turned and as it was bit too cold to lunch at the outdoor restaurant, Loggia. We were allowed to dine at The Orangery as I was able to sit in Mum’s bag.
May’s comment: RH England is in a 400-year-old landmark estate designed by preeminent British architect Sir John Soane. A celebration of history, design, food and wine, Aynho Park was reimagined and open to the public for the first time this year.
RH’s professional designers created within the 73 acre, 60-room property, timeless spaces that reflect balance, symmetry and perfect proportions – an elegant juxtaposition of past and present, relaxed and refined.
It integrates artistic installations of luxury home furnishings from internationally renowned designers with rare art, antiques and artifacts from around the world.
Two grand staircases pay tribute to James and Sophie Perkins, Aynho’s previous owners, with their collection of classical sculptures, architectural models and artifacts on display.
The Architecture & Design Library honors the legacy of Sir John Soane with a carefully compiled collection of vintage, contemporary and rare out-of-print books from some of the most influential creators of the last 2,000 years.
One can also sit and enjoy a meal, or have a drink at several dining experiences – the Orangery, the Loggia and the Conservatory – as well as a Wine Lounge, Tea Salon and Juicery.
The Orangery offers a dramatic live-fire dining experience in a luminous setting with abundant natural light.
With a view out onto the grounds where there are white deer and sheep roaming in the distance.
The Loggia is a relaxed open-air restaurant and wine bar offering wood-fired pizzas, charcuterie boards and rustic shared plates.
The Wine Lounge serves Champagnes and fine wines from around the world, including limited production offerings from renowned small vintners.
A quiet destination for afternoon tea service featuring classic specialty teas accompanied by freshly baked scones, clotted cream and house-made preserves.
The Juicery features organic fresh juices, craft espresso drinks and grilled baguettes with cultured butter and fresh jams, which can be enjoyed at communal farmhouse-style tables or while touring the vast estate grounds.
It was such a feast for the eyes and love how they used neutral shades to create such warm environments with a wow factor. One can only dream of four poster beds in spacious bedrooms and oversized windows looking out to England’s green pastures. But we can always dream.
AYNHO PARK, AYNHO, BANBURY, OXFORDSHIRE OX17 3BQ
One Response
Beautiful place , looks like you and Lulu had a lovely day . Loved Lulu in a handbag and she seemed to like it too xx