Inside the Country Houses of Britain & Ireland

From his own distinguished residence, Hatchlands Park in Surrey, to some of Britain’s most iconic estates—including Castle Howard, Knole, Goodwood, and Petworth—Cobbe draws on more than fifty years of unparalleled knowledge and expertise in historical detail, conservation, and interior restoration. This book offers rare access to some of the most important homes in the United Kingdom and Ireland, illuminating the stories of the houses and the lives lived within them. 

Cobbe shares never seen photographs alongside his own charming paintings and designs illustrating his schemes, which refresh, enliven, and reignite the hallowed interiors of these country houses. Here readers gain practical guidance on topics such as hanging and enhancing art collections, choosing historically sympathetic paint colors and window treatments, restoring architectural elements, and balancing centuries-old character with the demands of modern living. 

More than a showcase of extraordinary rooms, this book serves both as a celebration of Cobbe’s remarkable legacy and a blueprint for decorators, restorers, and enthusiasts seeking to preserve heritage while creating livable, beautifully layered homes.