Beaconsfield Residence
Izabella and Mark’s self-build journey began with a shared dream and a serene plot of land. From the outset, the couple were deeply involved in every aspect of the design, creating a home that reflects both their personalities and their passion for thoughtful architecture. “It is the best thing we’ve ever done.”
The property itself is a striking architectural statement, brick-built with dramatic apexes and a full glass façade that floods the interiors with natural light. But beyond its structural beauty lies a story of care and collaboration. Mark, a minimalist, and Bella, a maximalist, had to navigate their stylistic differences to create a space that felt authentic to both. “We had to be 100% aligned… both styles had to be embraced to make it a home for both of us.” Together, they have created a home that is easy to love and even easier to live in. The kind of place where you can unwind, recharge, and be yourself, because it is a space that that invites you in and encourages you to stay.
Bella’s experience in interior design and their world life experiences together shaped Bella and Mark’s design ethos contributing to a vision that was both aspirational and grounded. “We wanted a home where the doors are always open, where people can just rock up. A place where we can grow our vegetables, host our family and friends, and just relax.”
Their goal was to create a home that felt like a luxurious country hotel: timeless, open, and effortlessly elegant. Every detail, from the layout to the finishes, was chosen to support that vision, including their choice to work with Catchpole & Rye. “These are investment pieces, not dateable. Just beautifully made, forever pieces.”
With three distinct bathrooms in the home, Bella and Mark approached each space with intention, selecting pieces that would not only elevate the experience but also reflect the character and purpose of each room.
In Bella and Mark’s master bedroom, the centrepiece is The Copper Bateau – rather than being tucked away, it is positioned boldly in the bedroom itself, in front of a full-height wall of glazing that opens onto their balcony. The bath becomes part of the architecture, framed by natural light and views of the outdoors, it transforms the space into a sanctuary. “It is magical, it holds the warmth, and when the sun hits it, it lights up. It’s the most beautiful, alive piece in the house.”
When guests open the door to the downstairs cloakroom, they’re immediately greeted by The Pyrford Single Washstand with Arabescato marble, a piece chosen for its sculptural elegance and quiet grandeur. Bella describes its impact simply: “It fills the space with presence and elegance.” The washstand is paired with Party Room Wallpaper by Anna Hayman Designs, a rich green with soft black undertones and geometric motifs that add depth and drama. The result is a cloakroom that feels bold, artistic, and unforgettable.
For their guest ensuite, Bella and Mark selected Catchpole & Rye’s Le Piaf Cast Iron Bath, finished in a soft coral paint colour that adds warmth and charm to the space. Above it, two playful fish decals echo the decor of the adjacent room, a subtle nod to Bella’s creative flair and her attention to detail.
The bath itself offers timeless elegance with the added benefit of adaptability: “It can be repainted if ever we wish to change or update the space.” This space strikes a balance between comfort and sophistication, offering guests a luxurious experience that reflects the intentionally warm nature of the home.
What truly set Catchpole & Rye apart for Bella and Mark was the level of care and craftsmanship behind every product, “Catchpole & Rye’s customer care is unlike anything we have experienced before. It is so rare to find a high-end company that looks after you like this. I can’t fault it. Just incredible, 100 times over.”
From showroom to installation, the experience was seamless and personal. The couple appreciated the transparency, the attention to detail, and the sense of partnership throughout the process. “There’s a deep peace of mind that comes with knowing Catchpole & Rye’s workshops are right here in the UK. It is about trust. Catchpole & Rye stands out for its openness, integrity, and quality.”
Bella and Mark’s home is a reflection of their journey, their values, and their shared vision. With Catchpole & Rye’s pieces woven into its fabric, it’s a space built to last, to be loved, and to welcome all who enter. “In every sense, Catchpole & Rye proved to be in a class of its own.”
