Inside the Luxury Interior Design Vision for Trent Park’s Royal Mews Showhomes

Set within the historic grounds of Trent Park, the transformation of the Royal Mews Stable Block into two exceptional showhomes demanded a designer with both sensitivity and vision.

Lunar Interior Designs’ Rebecca Surgey rose to the challenge, crafting interiors that honour the estate’s rich heritage while embracing the needs of modern living.

In this exclusive interview, she reveals the inspirations, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design decisions that shaped The Windsor and The Buckingham, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process behind these remarkable homes.

Honouring Heritage Through Creative Vision

What was your initial creative vision when you first stepped inside the heritage Stable Block homes at Trent Park?

“I felt immediately captivated by the building’s architectural integrity and sense of history. The Stable Block has such a strong identity. My aim was to enhance that character, highlighting its unique features while ensuring the interiors felt warm, inviting, and liveable rather than grand or imposing.”

How did the history of Trent Park influence your design direction for The Windsor and The Buckingham?

“For The Windsor, heritage was the starting point. I imagined a home filled with art and collected objects, commissioning bespoke abstract landscapes and incorporating equine sculptures as a nod to the building’s past. Warm greens, ambers, and ochres echo the surrounding parkland, while tapestry fabrics, velvets, and silk wallcoverings reference the estate’s historic interiors.”

“In The Buckingham, I drew inspiration from the 1920s, pairing rich teals, deep blues, and terracotta tones with beautifully crafted pieces. It still feels contemporary,” but rooted in the colours and character of the landscape and architecture.”

Were there particular architectural details that shaped the aesthetic at the Royal Mews Stable Block?

“The windows, each unique, some with arched detailing and rosettes, became a key influence. Their curves are echoed in furniture silhouettes and lighting. Brickwork patterns inspired bespoke walnut detailing on media units and bedside tables.”

How do you balance heritage with contemporary comfort?

“It’s about respecting the building while designing for modern life. Window seats were added to maximise views, vaulted bedrooms were complemented with panelled feature walls, and every space was planned to feel both functional and serene.”

Designing Within a Listed Setting

What were the biggest opportunities and challenges of working in a listed stable block?

Rebecca describes the project as “a rare creative opportunity.” The challenge, was ensuring the interiors didn’t become overly thematic or distract from the building’s character. “There’s an art to honouring heritage in a way that still feels relevant and restrained.”

How did the original structure influence your material and colour choices?

Many materials were chosen from the outset. Liberty’s Mount Edo embroidery, used on the hallway bench, references Trent Park’s Japanese water garden. Zoffany’s Verdure headboard fabric evokes pastoral landscapes. Natural stones and rich velvets mirror the tones of the estate, while silk and woven wallcoverings offer warmth reminiscent of the Mansion House interiors of the 1920s.

Craftsmanship and Materials in Trent Park’s Heritage Showhomes

What textures or finishes were essential to reflect the building’s heritage?

Lighting played a crucial role. With large windows flooding the rooms with daylight, Rebecca opted for diffused brass and alabaster lighting to create atmosphere without overpowering the architecture.

In the studies and snug rooms, darker timbers, leather seating, and textured wallcoverings evoke the Stable Block’s original character. British craftsmanship was prioritised throughout, with pieces sourced from Liberty, House of Hackney, Soho Home, Sanderson Group, Heathfield, and bespoke UK makers.

How did you blend modern comforts with traditional charm?

Spatial planning ensured each room felt generous yet intimate. Custom furniture maximised proportions, multifunctional spaces were incorporated, and The Windsor even includes a sofa bed and dedicated reading areas. The Buckingham features a bespoke “Boot Room” with oak boot racks and equestrian prints, an elegant nod to the building’s past.

Are there any bespoke elements you’re particularly proud of?

Rebecca highlights the handcrafted media units, featuring carved blockwork doors, brass detailing, and integrated Samsung Frame TVs. In the bedrooms, boutique style headboards and carefully positioned lighting create a sense of calm luxury.

Crafting Creating Homes With Atmosphere and Flow

Were there specific spatial features that guided your decisions?

Both homes have a natural flow. In each, the main living space was divided into generous seating and dining zones, anchored by dramatic alabaster chandeliers that make the most of the ceiling height.

What atmosphere were you aiming to create for future residents?

“A sanctuary,” Rebecca says. Trent Park’s beauty in every season inspired interiors that feel serene yet grand, spaces that residents will look forward to returning to each day.

Looking Ahead

What do you hope people feel when they walk into these homes for the first time?

“We want visitors to feel the history, and also to imagine themselves living here. The greatest compliment is when someone says, ‘I can see myself at home in this space.’”

Has working on Trent Park influenced your approach to future heritage projects?

“Absolutely. Heritage design can feel daunting, but research is everything. Understanding a building’s story ensures the interiors feel authentic, cohesive, and never forced.”

Own your own home at the Royal Mews Stable Block

Set within the beautifully restored Stable Block at Trent Park, the Royal Mews offers a rare opportunity to own a home in one of North London’s most historic and characterful locations.

These individually crafted residences combine period architecture with contemporary interior design, creating homes that are as functional as they are atmospheric.

With generous living spaces, bespoke detailing, and access to acres of landscaped parkland, the Royal Mews Stable Block offers a truly unique lifestyle, where heritage, craftsmanship, and modern comfort come together in perfect balance.

To find out more, visit our Royal Mews page.