Behind the Design: A Q&A with Interior Designer Paul from PHI Concepts
At Longstones, every detail of the interiors has been thoughtfully considered, with rustic textures and a natural colour palette that reflects the beautiful landscape surrounding the barns. From the soft linens and whitewashed panelling to the carefully chosen lighting and handmade furniture, each space has been designed to feel calm, comfortable, and completely in tune with its setting. To find out more about the design process and the inspiration behind the look and feel of Longstones, we spoke to Paul from PHI Concepts – the designer behind all six barns.
Tell us about the design inspiration for Longstones Avebury?
Longstones is situated in such an incredible location in a World Heritage Site that it was hugely important to me to investigate all options for the direction of the interiors. With much consideration, I believed a smart Scandinavian vibe, which seemed to be so in tune with the design of the barns, would work so well. Scandinavian interiors are so smart and simple, incredibly soothing on the eye and a joy to be in.
Each of the six barns is quite different, can you talk us through what you were trying to create with each one?
Windmill Hill and Horslip are such gorgeous structures, which dig deep on the vernacular heritage locally, that it seemed an easy decision to embrace a simple Scandi vibe with contemporary furniture and fittings softened down with layered textures and a palette sourced directly from the surrounding natural landscape. Adam and Eve are more bijoux but again in buildings that embrace the rural utilitarian architecture of Wiltshire – here I used a bolder palette of Seaglass and Sienna in Adam and in Eve, blues and neutrals, both offset with well-considered contemporary furniture and a slightly more tactile vibe. Kennet and Ridgeway, in the restored hay barns, I treated with a Scandi rustic vibe – wood plank kitchens handmade by Ian Blake of Blake Constructions in rural Cornwall are offset with whitewashed panelling, rustic garden and farm tools and all layered with linens, wools and vintage leathers to bring a flavour of Rustic Luxe.
Are there any standout features, unusual quirks or fun facts you can share with us?
It’s often the detailing that lifts the interiors and my standout favourites are the slatted panelling in Horslip and Windmill Hill juxtaposed with the oversized rattan lampshade. The cute little built-in seat with the rustic panelling in Ridgeway – all so beautifully made by Nick Hartley in Somerset, given a simple whitewash and offset with linen cushions – makes dining a dream in this little barn.
We are lucky to be set within a World Heritage Site with a fascinating history on our doorstep. How have you incorporated this into the style of Longstones?
Yes, much consideration was given on how the natural landscape and the incredible location could be incorporated into the schemes. We thought intensely about the fabrics, designs and colours used throughout – little details like the stone emblem cushions in Kennet, the utilitarian style of the handmade coffee tables – embracing nature throughout the schemes. I love some of the stone-like accessories used in Windmill Hill and Horslip which give a simple nod to history.
Which suppliers have you used or sourced items from? Tell us a little more about the process that you have worked through.
We source from so many suppliers – many who are now huge friends too. We have used some of the loveliest linens for sofas and blinds from Designers Guild and Sanderson. Many items of furniture, particularly in Kennet and Ridgeway, are handmade by my colleague Nick Hartley.
Sofas are mainly from my long-time friends and longest running suppliers PR Home in rural Nottinghamshire. Paint used throughout is from Zoffany and Little Greene, and the textured wallpapers from Colefax and Fowler, Arte Wallcoverings and Designers Guild again.
We use lighting from numerous people including Pooky, Holloways of Ludlow, Coach House and Garden Trading. When we are designing the barns, much time and effort is taken to consider all aspects of each room – how the combination of all the pieces will work, how the room will flow and how the guests will enjoy the space and feel comfortable, relaxed and most importantly, enjoy their stay at Longstones.
Do you have a favourite barn?
I have a fondness for all the Longstones buildings but I think my absolute favourite is Kennet. I adore the energy of the building, its rustic vernacular vibe. It feels very considered and grounded and handmade – from the kitchen and bench seat, to the stunning bathroom and ensuite, and the most delightful of sitting rooms. A winter’s afternoon with a good book, the fire roaring and a hot chocolate wrapped up in a wool throw would be heavenly.
We loved hearing more about the thought and detail that’s gone into designing each of the barns. From the handmade furniture to the soft, layered textures and subtle nods to the local landscape, Paul has created spaces that feel both considered and completely at ease. Each barn has its own personality, but together they share a quiet sense of calm and comfort, the kind of place you can properly switch off and settle in.