Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have long been celebrated for their impeccable taste in real estate, and their latest project in the English Cotswolds is perhaps their most personal yet. After leaving California, the couple sought a home that would reflect their desire for tranquility and a deep connection to nature. The result is a stunning contemporary farmhouse that serves as a masterclass in blending modern design with the rustic beauty of the countryside. The property is a testament to their belief that a home should be both a sanctuary and a seamless part of its environment.
The architecture of the home is deliberately understated yet profoundly impactful. Expansive glass walls are the defining feature, offering panoramic views of the endless green pastures and timeless stone villages that characterize the region. This design choice ensures that the breathtaking landscape is the primary artwork in every room. The exterior, with its clean lines and natural materials, sits comfortably against the backdrop of meadows, making the structure feel as if it has grown from the land itself rather than being imposed upon it.
Inside, the couple’s design ethos shines through. The palette is a study in warm, neutral tones, creating a sense of calm and serenity. Exposed wooden beams stretch across ceilings, paying homage to the traditional barns of the area while providing a striking textural element. The furnishings are a mix of modern comfort and rustic pieces, creating spaces that are both elegant and inviting. It is a home that feels lived-in and loved, where dogs nap in sunlit patches on wide-plank floors and the line between curated design and comfortable living is beautifully blurred.
Every detail of the estate, from the airy, well-appointed stables for Portia’s horses to the open pastures dotted with grazing sheep, has been considered with intention. The property is not just a house; it is a holistic environment that celebrates a slower, more intentional way of life. For design enthusiasts, the retreat offers inspiration on how to create a space that is both sophisticated and soulful, proving that the most beautiful homes are those that tell a story and foster a deep connection to the world outside their walls.
