The Clock House, Surrey, UK

Project - The Clock House (Ref: 26A)

Location - Surrey

Product(s) - HW9604 Bergen

Designer - NK Living

Photographer - Chris Snook

Designed by NK Living, The Clock House is the sensitive restoration of an eighteenth-century carriage house, thoughtfully reimagined for modern family living while preserving its remarkable architectural heritage. Bergen from the Henley Collection was specified throughout the home, its rich Auburn tones bringing warmth and character to complement the original stone walls, exposed beams and period detailing.

Honouring history through design

Dating back to the 1770s and originally forming part of the Garston Park carriage house, The Clock House was purchased by owners who were passionate about restoring a property with genuine history. Working closely with the client, NK Living developed an interior-led scheme that respected the building's architectural heritage while introducing the comfort and functionality expected of contemporary living.

The project was a true labour of love; the two-and-a-half-year restoration required extensive structural intervention, including lowering the existing mezzanine level, installing new floors, constructing a striking staircase and integrating underfloor heating, air conditioning and modern electrical systems throughout. Every design decision balanced the practical demands of modern life with a deep respect for the building's original character.

A floor designed to last generations

Following a visit to our Clerkenwell Showroom, the client chose Bergen from the Henley Collection, a rich, characterful European oak from our Auburn colour group. Chosen for its depth of colour and naturally rustic appearance, the flooring sits comfortably alongside the property's exposed timber beams, original stonework and restored architectural features.

Beyond the limestone entrance hall, Bergen flows throughout almost every room, creating continuity across the restored home while allowing the building's original features to take centre stage.

The Clock tower - a heritage highlight

As part of the wider restoration, the property's original clock, dating from the 1700s, was carefully removed by the joiners before being restored by Thwaites & Reed, Britain's oldest clockmakers and the company responsible for maintaining the Great Clock of the Palace of Westminster, better known as Big Ben, for more than 30 years. During the restoration, the specialists painstakingly restored the historic mechanism before returning the clock to full working order.

Bringing the restoration together

More than simply restoring a historic building, NK Living has created a home that celebrates craftsmanship. From the restoration of the original 1700s clock to the considered specification of Bergen throughout the interiors, every element reflects a thoughtful approach to preserving the building's unique character. The result is a home that honours its history while embracing modern family living, proving that the most successful restorations don't erase the past - they build upon it.