One of Surrey’s leading exclusive use barn wedding venues, The Barn at Botley Hill has had a team of top experts working on every aspect of its creation. So, it’s perhaps no surprise that a leading light of the design world, Emma Kirby, has also been involved in its conception.

Interior designer Emma Kirby

The go-to designer for many British celebs, Emma was also one of the consultants on the famous Soho Farmhouse project – the countryside retreat of the exclusive private members’ club in London. Set in some 100 acres of stunning scenery in Oxfordshire, this luxurious resort has become synonymous with the best in rustic style. In fact, the brand even has an interiors range of its own now.

Designer style

So, back at Botley Hill Farmhouse, when the team were looking to bring a designer on-board, they knew exactly who they wanted.

“I have always loved what they did at Soho Farmhouse,” says Sheila Benson, one of the driving forces in the design of the new wedding venue at Botley. “What they have achieved there is a beautiful combination of rustic, raw materials married with the best in design. So, all the charm without any of the chintz.

“We were also familiar with Emma’s work beforehand, so when we decided to bring in a consultant designer, she was the obvious choice– and she has been an invaluable source of inspiration to us in the overall vision.”

Spectacular Surrey views

Welcoming its first wedding in July, this brand-new luxury wedding venue which is found next-door to the historic inn, Botley Hill Farmhouse comprises two beautiful barns. Both built from traditional timber, the interiors are crafted from reclaimed wood and feature exposed steel beams. The stars of the show, however, are the floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular views across rolling Surrey countryside.

Inside, highlight features include the aged porcelain tiles, shipped in specially all the way from Italy, while the tables have been handcrafted by local carpenters. There are also huge chandelier-style statement lights – and that’s not to mention the bespoke bar created from reclaimed wood.

“We all felt that there was a natural synergy between the design of Soho Farmhouse and the new wedding venue at Botley, as they both combine the best in rustic design with contemporary features and a stunning setting,” says Emma. “So, there are certainly elements of this style that you will also see here.

Grand designs

“For me, the idea was all about creating a real warmth in the barns – through the beautiful wood, the exposed metal and rustic features – where people feel happy, relaxed and welcome.

“It has been wonderful working with Sheila, who has such great design vision herself, and I think both barns are going to be something very special indeed.”

Whilst the new wedding venue is set in beautiful countryside, it is also surprisingly accessible. In fact, incredibly, Central London is just 12 miles away as the crow flies. Perfect for any members of Soho House who may wish to hold their wedding here!

• The Barn at Botley Hill is a new luxury Surrey wedding venue on the Titsey Estate, within easy reach of London. Click here for all enquiries.