Two years ago, Ben Cobb made a significant life change by leaving his central London flat to settle in a historic cottage in the Cotswolds. The move, which came after an extensive renovation of a listed thatched property dating back to 1605, marked a new chapter for Cobb and his wife, who originally purchased the cottage as a weekend retreat during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cobb, formerly the editor of the Evening Standard’s weekly magazine, had long been entrenched in London life. Born and raised in the capital, he had built his career and social circles there, enjoying the city’s cultural offerings and its pace. However, as his 50th birthday approached, he and his wife sought a change in lifestyle. In 2024, they sold their home in Maida Vale and moved full-time to the Cotswolds, embracing a quieter pace of life away from the city.

Their Cotswold property, untouched for more than four decades before they bought it, presented numerous challenges. The renovation, spanning two years, exposed structural issues including rotten joists, bowing walls, leaking roofs, and dated infrastructure. The work required major interventions such as new roofing, installation of lintels, comprehensive rewiring, and plumbing replacement, all while navigating the restrictions imposed by the home’s listed status to preserve its original layout and character.

The couple’s goal was to maintain the cottage’s historic charm while updating it for modern living. They enlisted the expertise of Farrow & Ball’s brand ambassador Paddy O’Donnell to develop a sympathetic colour scheme and drew on advice from acclaimed interior designer Adam Bray. Their approach focused on combining traditional aesthetics with comfort, selecting furnishings and décor inspired by English design figures such as John Fowler and Robert Kime. Many pieces were sourced from local antique shops and auctions, contributing to a sense of history and lived-in warmth.

In addition to design, Cobb highlighted the significance of community in the countryside, noting this as one of the most rewarding aspects of the move. While the article does not elaborate in detail, his reflections suggest a meaningful connection has formed with neighbours and the local environment.

Overall, the transition from urban to rural living has been transformative for Cobb, despite the complexities and demands of renovating a centuries-old home. He described the process as taxing yet ultimately worthwhile, with the restored cottage now embodying a blend of heritage and personal expression suited to their new lifestyle.