Homes with a Sense of Place

In conversation with Kirsty Spencer, Founder of True Cotswold

There is a particular kind of calm that comes from staying somewhere that feels genuinely cared for. Recently, we sat down for a Q&A with Kirsty, founder of True Cotswold, to talk about how her childhood experiences, deep connection to the Cotswolds and background in luxury hospitality have shaped a business rooted in comfort, character and thoughtful detail.

The inspiration behind True Cotswold stretches back to Kirsty’s earliest memories. “My inspiration goes back to my childhood family holidays,” she explains. “I discovered early on how escaping to your own private sanctuary can feel magical, and how thoughtfully arranged spaces can help create lasting memories.” Even now, it’s those moments of escape, travelling with loved ones, exploring wild places and finding secret spots, that continue to influence how she approaches every stay.

That sense of sanctuary naturally led her into a career in luxury hospitality, where she refined her understanding of exceptional service and authentic guest experience. “The dream that guided me then, and still inspires me now, is to offer others that quiet sense of enchantment,” she says. “A peaceful escape where every detail is designed to bring comfort, joy and a touch of magic.”

Being born and raised in the Cotswolds plays a fundamental role in the homes she selects. For Kirsty, a True Cotswold property must encapsulate the charm, natural beauty and distinctive architecture the region is known for. “I’m drawn to homes that each tell their own story,” she explains, whether that’s a higgledy-piggledy cottage with exposed beams and a roaring fire, a historic mill surrounded by gardens, or a contemporary home designed to make the most of far-reaching views. Variety is essential, but every property must offer a genuine sense of place alongside comfort and style.

Balancing character and heritage with modern comfort is central to how properties are prepared. “The character comes from the fabric of the building,” Kirsty says. Original stone, timber beams and architectural features are carefully preserved, while contemporary kitchens and bathrooms, luxury bed linen, towels and toiletries ensure guests feel enveloped in comfort. The aim is never to dilute the charm, but to support it.

Guest experience sits at the heart of everything True Cotswold does. “We believe the best experience comes from personal and warm customer service,” she explains, alongside excellent housekeeping and being available before, during and after each stay. Thoughtful touches such as welcome hampers filled with local treats, clear guidance and personal recommendations help guests feel truly at home.

This emphasis on human connection is something Kirsty sees guests increasingly valuing. “With many booking agents, the process can feel impersonal,” she notes. Being a small, family-run team allows guests direct access throughout their journey, fostering trust, reassurance and a sense of care that larger operators often struggle to maintain.

That same attentiveness extends to property owners. True Cotswold delivers a comprehensive suite of in-house services, from individually trained housekeeping teams to dedicated property management and proactive maintenance. By keeping the portfolio purposefully small, the team knows each home inside and out, ensuring consistent standards and addressing issues early. This hands-on approach helps secure five-star reviews, repeat bookings and long-term success for owners.

Design, styling and presentation also play a crucial role in creating memorable stays. “The ambience of a property is born in thoughtful design,” Kirsty explains. Lighting, colour palettes, flow and feel all contribute to the soul of a space. Carefully curated interiors, bespoke furnishings and local artwork elevate a property beyond somewhere to stay, turning it into a destination that guests remember long after they leave.

Looking ahead, there’s an exciting chapter unfolding for True Cotswold. The portfolio is growing, with opportunities for owners who share the same values of care and quality. Alongside this, True Cotswold Retreats are being developed to offer fully bespoke experiences, from private catering and tailored wellness programmes to guided walking excursions. Each retreat is designed to feel personal, restorative and deeply connected to place.

Speaking with Kirsty reinforced something we value deeply at Inuti Interiors: that the most successful spaces are shaped by experience as much as aesthetics. Whether it’s a home designed for everyday living or a place people travel to in order to rest and reconnect, the same principles apply. Thoughtful layout considered design and attention to detail all play a role in how a space makes people feel. True Cotswold’s approach reflects a shared belief that luxury is found in care, authenticity and spaces that quietly support the way people live, gather and create memories. It’s this understanding that makes each stay feel personal, memorable and genuinely rooted in place.

You can contact Kirsty at True Cotswold – Luxurious Escapes, Timeless Memories