Last updated: 01.09.2025
We were invited to contribute to the styling of The Deanery at Winchester Cathedral to prepare the space for holidaying guests to occupy this historic home, for the first and last time, before it returns as the private residence of the Dean of Winchester.
It has been both a creative privilege and a personal joy. As one of the most historically and architecturally important residences in the country, it provides a unique setting that perfectly complements the timeless and enduring spirit of our designs.
On Monday the 7th of July, the team and I piled up the car, and drove through the rolling green fields and quaint villages that form our route between our Sussex home and Winchester Cathedral. Naturally struggling not to stop as we reached Rhye, which adorned with antique shops, is a favoured pitstop for inspiring future designs.
Following our picturesque journey, we arrived at the heavenly pocket of Winchester Cathedral. Reminiscent of York and Canterbury, this is English Gothic architecture at its best, demanding attention, whilst creating a feeling of safety when looking up at its grandness. A medieval backdrop which on the sunny July day we arrived, felt like stepping onto a film set.
I adore period properties, ancient architecture and of course, to go behind the scenes at what are usually – secret, hidden, treasured spaces. The team and I were in our element! The celebrated Deanery at Winchester Cathedral dates to the time of Henry VIII, there were so many intriguing backdrops steeped in antique appeal that suited the French Bedroom look.
We were fascinated by comparing the interior elements added between decades, the mystery between why certain things had been moved, added, started, not finished.
My eyes were bursting with visual intrigue, the Roman mosaic in the porch stole my heart and I loved to see our Clair de Lune bed finials look so suited next to art which has aged with elegance, as our Clair de Lune collection is designed to transcend trends, designed as a nod back to Castlecore style.
Impressed by the craftsmanship built to withstand centuries, we found ourselves obsessively styling every window and window seat, all while we could hear the choristers singing their perfectly pitched descants as we opened the windows. Dating back to 1330, the window frames were all built on site in the workshop and are maintained by the onsite workshop who don generational carpentry skills.
The naturally sloping floors, shaped only by time, created visual intrigue alongside deep panelling you’d never find in today’s space-conscious interiors mood boards. With that depth came a true sense of cocooning, and we were captivated by the Staircase to Nowhere, a curious architectural detail that led only to a pulpit where the Dean once rehearsed his Sunday sermons.
Our (soon to be launched) Nostalgiacore Rosa Bed looked picture perfect in the space with its matching linen, cushions and window seat.
Most importantly, this collaboration is about purpose. By booking a stay at The Deanery at Winchester Cathedral, guests are directly supporting the maintenance and operation of the Cathedral. Their stay will help to preserve this extraordinary place of wonder, beauty and inspiration for generations to come.
I’ll certainly be taking some time there with family and I hope by sharing a day of our experience there, you will be encouraged to do the same.
Available for short-term holiday rental, for the first time before a new Dean takes residence next year.
Sunday Discoveries
The Deanery
Looking for a unique opportunity to sleep in a French Bedroom bed?
The Deanery, Winchester sleeps up to 10 people and is available for bookings of three nights or longer. For more information, visit https://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/deanery-lettings/
Brunch With Alasdair Akass
Director of Development at Winchester Cathedral
Tell us about the unique opportunity?
“This is a quintessential British home that has been revitalised with the support of many wonderful brand who share our values. Renting the Deanery is a one-of-a-kind opportunity welcoming family to enjoy its tranquil and beautiful setting has just been a reminder of how lucky we are to have such a wonderful space steeped in history to share with others.”
So, who is staying with you?
“We have had a huge amount of interest, the space is only available to rent for 6 months – once the new Dean arrives, the this will be their home, and the space will return to its private setting and place in our grounds. The first family to rent the Deanery are from the US, they have rented the property out for a very special 10 weeks, for a family reunion, the most special connection of all, they share their surname with the name of the cathedral. Equally, the property has been popular with authors looking for a quiet place to hone their writing. It really has been a mix of larger family reunions, or sanctuary seekers.”
Why stay here over a hotel?
“Cocooned in the heart of the Cathedral estate and with unparalleled views of one of the finest medieval cathedrals in Europe, guests will experience the nightly ritual of being locked in behind the imposing gates of the Inner Close, adding to the sense of privilege, privacy and security.
The Deanery is privileged to enjoy one of the largest and most beautiful gardens within the Cathedral Close. Lovingly maintained by the Cathedral’s Gardens team, the grounds feature a series of mature flower borders that provide vibrant colour throughout the year. Enclosed by high brick walls and fencing, the garden offers a rare haven of peace and privacy in the heart of bustling Winchester. It’s a unique experience that would be impossible to replicate!”
