Matthew is a celebrated painter, writer and designer who is perhaps best well-known for his longstanding collaboration with Emma Bridgewater pottery.
Matthew has authored and illustrated a stable of books on architecture, much loved by enthusiasts and architectural students alike.
We join Matthew at his West Oxfordshire home – Ham Court, a beautiful 14th century medieval gatehouse surrounded by beautiful gardens and farmland – as he shares what inspires him most about the Cotswold countryside and tips on where to avoid on a busy weekend.
12 years
Same as below
The view from the Stow-on-the-Wold to Burford road which feels as if humans have looked over that grand valley since time out of mind.
Living near the Thames, it is my go to wilderness and I think (usually downstream) on any hot day when I have got time. I love Swifts hunting the Mayfly and just occasionally, a Merlin hunting the Swifts.
Into my garden
Not to drive through Burford at the weekend.
My kitchen garden.
A bit obvious, but that there is no real countryside here. That it is over manicured, real farmers, rearing real animals and grow real crops on the Cotswold brash.
To watch our afternoon spent with Matthew in his beautiful garden at Ham Court for a few more of his insights to the Cotswolds, head over to our Instagram here.
Ham Court imagery is kindly shared by Matthew, you can discover his drawing and painting workshops, supper clubs, events and garden open days here.
Founded by Clement Lauchard and Beatrice Savoretti, Vigour and Skills launched to celebrate craftsmanship in the Cotswolds by spotlighting the stories and skills of local makers.
Autumn in the Cotswolds unfolds gently. Warmth gives way to stillness, shadows lengthen and the landscape softens. Crisp air carries the faint scent of wood smoke and damp earth, villages are framed by copper beech trees, and log fires crackle…...
