The
ENGLISH HOME
2022 Spring Edit
Celebrating the essence of English style April 2022 | Issue 206 | £4.99 | UK Edition
THE NEW CLASSIC Irresistible style updates for timeless interiors
Blissful bedrooms
Designs for the best night’s sleep
SPRING REFRESH
New season fabric & wallpaper collections
Easter tablescapes Set the scene for celebrations to remember
EXPERT GUIDES
• Custom-made designs • Growing tulips for pots & borders
HERITAGE HOMES
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CONTENTS APRIL 2022
46 62 Notebook
English homes
Style inspiration
17 NEWS Our monthly digest of notable
36 WRITTEN IN THE STARS The Countess
71 PERIOD DRAMA Venetian damask print
people, places and products.
24 DESIGN DISCOVERIES Celebrating
spring with innovative new styles.
30 THE EDIT Vibrant, sustainable and
British-made designs.
32 COTTAGE KITCHEN Classic, rustic and
patterned designs to enrich schemes.
34 ROUGH WITH THE SMOOTH Elevating
pieces with engaging natural textures.
35 SUBSCRIBE Treat a loved one
or yourself to a subscription to The English Home.
8 THE ENGLISH HOME
of Derby reveals the vision behind Knowsley Hall’s transformation.
46 COLOURFUL OUTLOOK A stylish mix of
pretty hues and decorative prints adds heartening charm to a country home.
54 GENTLE APPROACH An eighteenth-
century farmhouse is carefully adapted for family life with an open-plan layout.
62 FRESH START Interior designer Liv
Wallers helps create a cosy townhouse interior with an inviting, sociable feel.
imbues schemes with a timeless story.
72 TIME TO REFINE The spring wallpaper
and fabric collections offer a fresh spin on classic English interiors.
80 THE PERFECT RESULT Designers detail
different types of bespoke services providing unique decorative solutions.
91 BEDDED BLISS Create calm, classic,
romantic and sustainable schemes informed by expert guidance.
104 HERITAGE STYLE Combining period
character with contemporary living by interiors stylist Selina Lake.
114
36
36 46
62 62 54 Quintessentially 111 FLORAL CELEBRATIONS Layering chintz
prints for an al fresco treat.
112 FROM PATCH TO PLATE: MATTHEW FORT In praise of the radish in all its
64
52 46 72
120
gem-like and fiery glory. 114 SET THE SCENE FOR EASTER Joyous
ideas for seasonal tablescapes.
120 BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL From borders to
pots, planting tulips to bring vibrant energy to any area of the garden.
130 ONE FINAL THING This bank holiday,
recharge in scenic British countryside.
THE ENGLISH HOME 9
Turn to page 72 to discover the new season’s collections which have a classic English tone that feels right for now. Wallpaper, Sayuri, Hunter, and fabric, both Romo
Curtain, Ashbee, Natural, £115 a metre, James Hare
A letter from home
C
lassic English decorating never goes out of style, but this season it is also in fashion. The return of timeless interiors reflects the mood of the moment as we crave uplifting, enduring and comfortable homes, and this new optimism is reflected in the industry’s latest collections. The new spring fabrics and wallpapers reference nature and travel in the historical tradition with elegant designs that draw upon archive prints and chintz updated in fresh, soft palettes and textures. Learn how versatile these new classics are and be inspired by our advice on how to use them to refresh interiors on page 72. The renowned interiors stylist Selina Lake has her own take on classic English style and in this issue offers insights on how to emphasize the best features of period homes and decorate them for life today on page 104. She calls the mood ‘Heritage Style’. Elsewhere this issue, we show you the benefits of commissioning custom-made and bespoke design solutions for seamless living (p80) and how to achieve the best night’s sleep with our guide to bedroom design (p91). We hope this issue inspires you to find the perfect balance of classic English style and fresh new inspiration this spring. Engineered Walnut Pre-lacquered
Craig
graphy by Paul Craig
Engineered Walnut Pre-lacquered
eautiful flooring, designed to last Beautiful flooring, designed to last
Samantha Scott-Jeffries, Editor
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The
ENGLISH HOME PODCAST
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The
ENGLISH HOME
2022 Spring Edit
Celebrating the essence of English style April 2022 | Issue 206 | £4.99 | UK Edition
THE NEW CLASSIC Irresistible style updates for timeless interiors
CONTACT US Editorial 020 7349 3700 The English Home, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Email theenglishhome@chelseamagazines.com Website theenglishhome.co.uk Advertising/Publishing 020 7349 3700 The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd Email info@chelseamagazines.com
Hand HandDrawn DrawnWallpapers Wallpapersand andFabrics Fabrics --Inspired Inspiredby bylife lifeininthe theUK UKand andAfrica Africa-www.juliettravers.com www.juliettravers.com
Blissful bedrooms
Designs for the best night’s sleep
Easter tablescapes Set the scene for celebrations to remember
EXPERT GUIDES
• Custom-made designs • Growing tulips for pots & borders
HERITAGE HOMES
EDITORIAL
COVER PHOTOGRAPH © JAMES MCDONALD
Editor Samantha Scott-Jeffries Managing Editor Sarah Feeley Art Editors Claire Hicks, Rebecca Stead Contributing Designer Mark Bradley Sub Editor Lea Tacey Decorating Editor Katy Mclean Acting Features Editor Suzanna Le Grove Homes & Lifestyle Editor Clair Wayman Editor-at-Large Kate Freud Editorial Assistant Nell Whitaker Group Sales Director Catherine Chapman 020 7349 3709; catherine.chapman@chelseamagazines.com Head of Sales Operations Jodie Green Advertisement Manager William Bernard 020 7349 3749; william.bernard@chelseamagazines.com Senior Sales Executive Alice Leeson 020 7349 3711; alice.leeson@chelseamagazines.com Sales Executive Laurna Barry 020 7349 3712; laurna.barry@chelseamagazines.com Advertising Production 01202 472781; allpointsmedia.co.uk
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NEXT ISSUE ON SALE 30 MARCH 2022 THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 1468-0238 (PRINT) THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 2397-7086 (ONLINE) Did you know you can manage your subscription online? Oversee your print and digital subscriptions online today simply by signing up at www.subscription.co.uk/ chelsea/Solo/. Stay up to date with the latest issues, update your personal details, and even renew your subscription with just a click of a button.
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NOTEBOOK
Our monthly edit of news, shopping inspiration and inside information
SPOTLIGHT ON… Sunshine Design Duet
English interiors icon Kit Kemp has collaborated with American design doyenne Annie Selke on a charming new collection of cushions, rugs, bedding and ottomans inspired by Barbados, New York and London – Kit’s favourite destinations.
“I think we can all do with a good splash of British eccentricity and style,” says Kit, who is founder and creative director of Firmdale Hotels. “We’re known for adding character and style to interiors to make rooms look magical and sing. The opportunity to work with Annie Selke gives us a chance to create rug collections and lifestyle products for wherever in the world you live.”
Dash & Albert founder Annie says: “This collection embodies the magic of Kit Kemp and the transformative spaces and experiences she creates.” Collection available from 7 March via shopkitkemp.com & andrewmartin.co.uk (For more design insights from Kit Kemp listen to Epiode 3 of The English Home podcast at podcast.theenglishhome.co.uk) THE ENGLISH HOME 17
NEWS
Cut From The Same Cloth
A Rum Fellow and Roger Oates Design collaborate Colour as expression and escapism is key to the magic of a new runners and rugs collaboration from A Rum Fellow and Roger Oates Design. Woven in England using a new diamond pattern, and versatile due to deft pattern layering and colour placement, with vivid brights to muted tones and fine textures to bold stripes, four designs add 10 new hues to the Roger Oates palette. “We both wanted a playful collection bringing bright and highly patterned design into the home – there was no space for neutrals in this collaboration!” says Roger Oates’ head of design Andy Guard. “The diamond is at the heart of the collaboration. It was central to our first meetings, it challenged us to bring a whole new structure to Roger Oates flatweave, and it has rightly become the symbol of this collection.” Founders of A Rum Fellow Caroline Lindsell and Dylan O’Shea say: “When Andy told us about the development of the diamond weave, and the goal to introduce more pattern, it was the spark that ignited talk of bringing our familiarity of geometric pattern together with this new adventure. The whole idea of collaborating was organic and unforced, much like our shared approach to design.” arumfellow.com; rogeroates.com
A Discerning Eye
Curated interiors edit by Vicky Edwards Sourcing the rare, the beautiful and the unique is the mission – and passion – of interiors company Lesser Spotted, founded by Vicky Edwards. A modern-day cabinet of curiosities, its website boasts a meticulously curated and ever-evolving collection of furniture, home accessories and objets d’art sourced from across the world. “Keeping true to the name,” she says, “Lesser Spotted is a cornucopia of carefully selected one-off pieces sourced from an extensive network of vintage and antique dealers. In addition, its range is packed with delightful repeatable products from over 100 hand-picked designers and craftsmen chosen for their beautiful and unique qualities.” Based in Staffordshire with a worldwide reach, Vicky is an experienced art consultant with a passion for interiors and craftsmanship plus vast knowledge, expertise and a network of contacts. She and her team also offer an interior design service and made-to-order bespoke options, as well as a complimentary sourcing service – Spotted For You. lesser-spotted.co.uk 18 THE ENGLISH HOME
NEWS
Flights of Fancy: Beguiling Design
Kit Miles’ new wallpapers bring home a flora & fauna fantasy At the height of its powers, design can stir the heart just as much as the eye, transporting us out of the everyday into new realms of endless possibility – all from the comfort of our own home. Kit Miles expertly conjures this magic, which is beautifully exemplified by his imaginative new wallpaper collection, Mount Horai. Described as ‘a lovesong to nature’, it is a dazzling journey blending reality with imagination. Jewel-coloured blooms and elaborate sinuous foliage set the stage for fluttering birds and butterflies, brightly coloured koi carp gliding in smooth curves through cool clear water, and serene ornamental forests. Stand back, and the overall effect is akin to the cossetting calm of a walled garden. Look closer, and endless tiny and delightful details reveal themselves. “The aim of this collection is simple,” explains Kit, “to create a moment of boundlessness and of possibility, helping to create beautiful interiors that lead us into the future. The designs are inspired
20 THE ENGLISH HOME
by nature, yet appear vividly imagined at the same time, exploring a wondrous synthesis of lavishly drawn flowers, leaves and plants. The result is a complex and arresting series of designs that, I hope, enliven the senses and prompt us to wonder at the stupefying beauty of our organic surround.” This collection elegantly emphasises the studio’s sustainable ethos and deep respect for our precious natural world. During a two year Master’s degree at the Royal College of Art, Kit honed his aptitude for draughtsmanship and applied his skills to textile design. Since founding his studio in 2013, Kit has become known for designing striking original wallpapers and fabrics of exceptional quality and meticulous attention to detail, playing with scale, colour and imagery in surprising ways. The Furniture Makers’ Company recently awarded Kit The Design Guild Mark, which recognises the highest standards in the design of furnishings. kitmiles.co.uk
FOR THE FULL TETRAD EXPERIENCE PLEASE CONTACT OUR PREMIER STOCKISTS LISTED BELOW Aberdeen Archibalds • Aberdeen Gillies • Aberdeen Sterling Furniture • Abingdon Lee Longlands • Accrington Taskers of Accrington • Banbury Bennetts • Banchory Taylors • Bangor Caprice • Barnstaple Padfields • Barrow-in-Furness Stollers • Bath TR Hayes • Battersea, London Barker & Stonehouse • Beverley Alexander Ellis Furniture Emporium • Birmingham Lee Longlands • Bo’ness Belgica • Boston Sack Store • Brighouse Websters Furniture • Burton upon Trent Haynes Furnishings • Cardiff Arthur Llewellyn Jenkins • Chesterfield Brampton House Furnishers • Clitheroe Shackletons Home & Garden • Colchester Hatfields of Colchester • Crickhowell, Wales Webbs of Crickhowell • Darlington Barker & Stonehouse • Derby Lee Longlands • Dundee Gillies • Dundee Sterling • Dunfermline Thomsons World of Furniture • Dumfries Barbours • Ealing, London Brentham Furniture • Edinburgh Martin & Frost • Elgin Anderson & England • Exmouth Stoneman & Bowker • Gateshead Barker & Stonehouse • Glasgow Forrest Furnishing • Glasgow Sterling Furniture • Grimsby AW Robinson Furniture • Guernsey Scope Furnishing • Guildford Barker & Stonehouse • Harrogate Smiths: The Rink • Holt Bakers and Larners • Hove Barker & Stonehouse • Hull Barker & Stonehouse • Inverness Gillies • Inverness Sterling Furniture • Inverurie Andersons • Isle of Wight Bayliss & Booth • Kilmarnock Tannahills • Knaresborough Barker & Stonehouse • Leamington Spa Whartons • Leeds Barker & Stonehouse • Leicester Langtons • Lincoln GH Shaw • Llanidloes Hafren Furnishers • Macclesfield Arighi Bianchi • Market Harborough Furniture Loft • Montrose Buicks • Nelson Pendle Village Mill • Newcastle Barker & Stonehouse • Northants, Heart of the Shires Texture Interiors • Northants, Towcester, Texture Interiors • Norwich Jarrolds • Nottingham Barker & Stonehouse • Perth Gillies • Salisbury Mylor & Mawes • Sheffield Ponsford • Shrewsbury Cousins Furniture • Solihull Whartons • Stamford Stamford Garden Centre • Stratford-upon-Avon Home of the Sofa • Street and Weston-Super-Mare Living Homes • Swansea Arthur Llewellyn Jenkins • Teeside Barker & Stonehouse • Tewkesbury Pavilion Broadway • Tillicoultry Sterling Furniture • Tunbridge Wells Hoopers • Waltham Cross Fishpools • Windsor WJ Daniel • Worcester Holloways Home & Garden Furniture • Yeovil The Old Creamery • York Browns
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NEWS
Many Moons Ago
185 proud years of textile manufacturing Founded in 1837, the year Queen Victoria ascended the throne, textile weaver Abraham Moon & Sons has risen from humble beginnings to international renown in its 185-year history. The company was started by Abraham Moon in the Yorkshire town of Guiseley – where it is still based today. Moon would pay local families to weave cloth at home on handlooms with yarn he supplied. When the cloth was ready, he would collect it, scour (wash) it, hang it out to dry in the surrounding fields, then take it to Leeds by horse and cart for sale in the market. He prospered enough to have a three-storey mill built using an abundant source of soft local water for scouring and other textile manufacturing processes. Today the company still uses the water springs underneath its mill for scouring. Thanks to the newly built nearby railway, the company expanded rapidly, exporting to Japan and Western Europe as early as the 1890s. After Abraham died in a tragic horse accident, his son Isaac took over, building a much larger, singlestorey, fully vertical mill, so that all manufacturing processes could take place on one site. One of Britain’s last remaining vertical woollen mills, Moon proudly weaves 100 per cent wool fabric, furnishings and apparel. moons.co.uk
Visit London’s Two Temple Place to marvel at works by seminal Nigerian potter Ladi Kwali as part of the Body Vessel Clay exhibition, which spans 70 years of ceramics history. Until 24 April. twotempleplace.org
Royal commissions are showcased in the exhibition 150 Years of the Royal School of Needlework: Crown To Catwalk from 1 April to 4 September at the Fashion & Textile Museum. fashion textilemuseum.org
Walking Distance features Jill Hudson and Imogen Bones’ paintings of the same Cornish coastline at The Byre Gallery in Cornwall from 2–24 April. thebyregallery.co.uk n 22 THE ENGLISH HOME
FFEATURE SARAH FEELEY PHOTOGRAPHS P18 © SIMON BROWN. P20 (TOP, BOTH) © CHRISTOPHER CORNWELL. P22 (MAIN) © ABRAHAM MOON & SONS; (DIARY FROM TOP) LADI KWALI BY W A ISMAY COURTESY OF YORK MUSEUMS TRUST (YORK ART GALLERY); FINAL MAJOR PROJECT ‘THE LOST GARDEN’ BY RSN DEGREE STUDENT LIVIA PAPIERNIK © ROYAL SCHOOL OF NEEDLEWORK; TURNING OF THE SEASONS BY IMOGEN BONE
Diary
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DESIGN DISCOVERIES
Crisp new textiles and innovative designs refresh the home this spring
COLOURS OF THE WORLD Each piece collected by Ibbi Direct’s talented curators has a story, such as these new, effervescent block-print cushion covers which are now part of its colourful collection celebrating the wonderfully wonky pieces sourced around the world. Block-print cushion covers, from £40, Ibbi Direct
ABOUT FERN Drawn from Vanessa Arbuthnott’s captivation with nature during the spring of 2021, The Forest Collection comprises a plethora of fantastical fern forms. Initially experimenting with potato prints in her kitchen, Arbuthnott has created a block-print collection in a variety of scales and uplifting colours. Lampshades, Little Fern, Ochre; console skirt, Little Fern, Lichen and Simple Ticking Detail, Lichen; pouffe, Lattice Leaf, Ochre and Simple Ticking Detail, Lichen; cushion, Wild Fern, Ochre, all £59 a metre, Vanessa Arbuthnott
TASK FOCUSED Bring light to the task in hand with versatile pendants in smart finishes from the new David Hunt Lighting SS22 collection which ranges from a selection of brass chandeliers to the more classic single wall lights, where sleek tradition meets contemporary twists. Buxton pendant, Brushed Chrome, £150, David Hunt Lighting 24 THE ENGLISH HOME
SHOPPING FRENCH ACCENT The new Loire Collection from Birdie Fortescue is inspired by eighteenth-century French prints and early Nevers faience china. From bamboo-and-rattan furniture to cushions in floral and trellis designs, to mix-and-match tableware and ruffled table cloths, this delightful range is sure to set the scene for a summer of lavish living. Woven Bamboo Sofa with water-resistant Trellis sofa cushion, Pink, £1,300; outdoor cushions, Bouquet de Fleurs, Ikat and Trellis, from £75, all Birdie Fortescue
THE ENGLISH HOME 25
SHOPPING PAINTERLY SHADES The enticingly jolly hand-painted fabric lampshades stem from Hum London, founded during lockdown by sisters Hermione and Ellie Gee. Expressive brushstrokes form animal prints, ginghams and delicate trims, adding a layer of pattern and personality to a room. Available in a range of colourways, with a warm and earthy toned new collection. Prices from £65, Hum London
BREAK AN EGG Start indulging in Easter baking by keeping important ingredients at hand in aesthetically pleasing vessels. The stylish stoneware collection from Nordic House’s fresh Scandi look is one to bring in for that spring-clean feel. Stoneware egg holder, £27.50, Nordic House
SIMPLE COMFORT The natural, clean and simple linen covers of Cotswold Grey’s Snowshill sofas bring an understated and calming mood to a sitting room. For those concerned with the rough and tumble from children and four-legged friends, the Milton range also offers the added benefit of stain-free technology. Snowshill sofas, from £3,100 for a two-seater, Cotswold Grey 26 THE ENGLISH HOME
WWW.WARNER-HOUSE.COM
SHOPPING HAPPY BEDFELLOWS From the fresh, quaint linens of Sarah K and the refined elegance of Katherine Paravicini emerges this new, smart bedspread, perfect for both classic and contemporary interiors. White Scallop bedspread, £185, Sarah K x Katherine Paravicini
NATURE TABLE Bridging both eclectic and traditional styles, the gently contrasting and matching collection of table linen and hand-painted ceramics from Mila London are perfect for creating a glorious tablescape featuring flora and fauna designs. Comporta serving bowl, £105; Comporta platter, £160; Birds in Paradise tablecloth, from £120; Birds in Paradise napkin, £7.50, all Mila London
SMART ALLIANCE Designed in France, the fresh and finessed Entente Cordiale fabric and wallpaper collection from Lewis & Wood celebrates England’s long-held connection with France, ready to make the crossing to the lighter months. Toile Baptiste, Ciel, £89.90 a metre, Lewis & Wood
Confident in colour and pattern, Otto Tiles’ three new green tile offerings across its terrazzo and encaustic cement range bring an optimistic atmosphere to bathrooms and kitchens. Valencia encaustic cement tiles, £162 a square metre, Otto Tiles ■ 28 THE ENGLISH HOME
FEATURE NELL WHITAKER
KEEN FOR GREEN
NEWS
THE EDIT Editor-at-Large Kate Freud tells the story behind brands adding vibrant, sustainable and British-made designs to interiors MIND THE GAP Given its impact on interiors, it is always surprising to find that the Transylvanian home furnishings brand Mind the Gap is only in its sixth year. Founders Stefan Ormenisan and Victor Serban, began by creating wallpapers and wall art before branching out into fabrics, furniture, lighting and accessories. Creators of ‘moods, stories and lifestyles’, the duo behind Mind the Gap are known for returning to their roots, with ranges inspired by their evocative homeland. A melting pot of people, cultures and religions, from Saxons and Hungarians to Gypsies and Jews, surrounded by mountains and forests, despite their lack of wealth the Transylvanian people would attach embroidered textiles to soften wooden furniture, and trimmed tasselled lamps to brighten the dark winter nights. This spring, look out for the Woodstock collection, encompassing wallpapers, furniture, fabric, cushions, lighting and new for this year – rugs. Think swirling forms and vivid colour combinations reminiscent of the swinging Sixties. mindtheg.com
ALTERNATIVE FLOORING The award-winning British brand Alternative Flooring has been championing design, craft and manufacturing in the UK for over 25 years, bringing beautiful and innovative designs to floors. Whether looking for carpets, rugs or runners, there is an astonishing array of colour and pattern, all made from fine wool, natural and faux fibres. Proud of its green credentials, Alternative Flooring now has a new Planet Pledge with Ecologi, which funds some of the world’s best climate crisis solutions via tree-planting and carbon-reduction projects. Not only that, it has been busy designing its collections, including the Woosie – a patterned wool and sisal mix flooring new for SS22, the classic Wool Motown carpet and the brilliantly versatile Herringstripe flatweave (shown here), the perfect backdrop for any interior. alternativeflooring.com 30 THE ENGLISH HOME
ARTE Arte have been making exquisite wall coverings under the watchful eye of the Desart family since 1981, and today its designs can be found in homes, hotels and public buildings in over 80 countries worldwide. Every year, an in-house team of experienced designers creates several new collections which are both trendsetting and innovative, whilst being a practical choice for your home. Each design is strikingly different – from the geometric Samal to the palm-inspired Manila and the flamboyant flamingoadorned Avalon. This season Arte has two new collections, the Sculptura, which draws inspiration from traditional plasterwork with strips of plaster arranged by hand to create a textural vinyl collection. Les Thermes depicts the rich history of GrecoRoman antiquity, in which sculpture and architecture both play an important role. Look out for the stunning mosaics, giving a taste of grandeur from days gone by. arte-international.com
VAUGHAN United by their shared love of art and antiques, Michael and Lucy Vaughan established their lighting brand Vaughan in 1983. Since launching, it has grown to become one of the world’s most eminent design and manufacturing brands not just of decorative lighting, but furniture and textiles too. At the heart of the company are Michael and Lucy’s artistic eye, discerning sense of style and meticulous attention to detail. From a seventeenth-century-inspired piece to something more modern, they cover the full spectrum of design. Vaughan cleverly combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation, and all its pieces are made, assembled or finished in Britain. New for Spring 2022 are 11 products in a range of classic and contemporary designs, including the Fyfield and Netherton lanterns, both available in brass and glass, and the Hinton alabaster table lamp (above). vaughandesigns.com
FUSION
Blend your finishes
SOHOLIGHTING.COM
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0208 106 1221
SHOPPING
Meadow’s Edge fabric, Lichen/Pale Rose, £84 a metre, Angie Lewin at St Jude’s
Tartan butter dish, £45; Tartan egg cup plate, £27, both Matilda Goad Hand-painted Leah Rose oval platter, £180, Zsuzanna Nyul at Cutter Brooks
Green Summer Flower ceramics, from £24.19 for a small plate, Simla blue and green tablecloth,
Dot Green charger plate, £40, Daylesford
COTTAGE KITCHEN
Emma Lacy Everyday Breakfast bowl, £38, Bluebellgray
For an effortless mood, mix classic cottage kitchen pieces with rustic designs and pretty patterns that will uplift the room. Blending styles keeps the scheme from feeling contrived and traditional pieces in soothing contemporary colours add freshness to characterful cottage features. Sourcing furnishings, lighting and practical essentials in wooden textures anchors the room with a befitting country connection. Layer this calming foundation with linens and fabrics in lively prints, such as checks and florals, alongside a sprinkling of brightly toned accessories.
Lemon Drizzle Cake paint and Whispering Angel paint, both £31 for 1l Matt, William Yeoward
Pacey cutting board, from £39.95, CharlesTed Interiors
Small Kinds soap, £10 for a set of three, National Trust Shop
East Sussex Cottage collection bar stool, £495; Contorno cushion cover in Alchemilla, £60, all Oka
The Dryad rattan whalebone chair, £2,900; Loose cushion, from £450, both Soane Britain Ruffle Gingham linen tablecloth in Dusty Pink and Denim Blue, from £189, Rebecca Udall 32 THE ENGLISH HOME
Hawkdale mango wood and marble kitchen island, £1,250, Perch & Parrow
FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVE PHOTOGRAPHS (DAYLESFORD) © NEIL WATSON; (OKA) © DAMIAN RUSSELL; (ANGIE LEWIN) © MIKE ELLIS
R7 150 electric cooker with induction hob in Olivine, £15,245, Aga
E N G L I S H RO S E S FA B U LO U S F R AG R AN C E S LONG F LOW E R IN G S E AS O N
davidaustinroses.co.uk
SC AN FOR
Boscobel® English Shrub Rose
SHOPPING
Cowrie Shell table lamp, £225, Oka
Kalik candleholder gift set, £150, Soho Home
The Potters Collection Vessels, from £149, Collection Noir
ROUGH WITH THE SMOOTH
Sima paint, Gondolin Stone £42 for 2.5l tiles, £34.95, Flat hexagon Matt, Walls and Floors Coat Climate Positive Paint Company
Use the beautiful textures of natural materials to bring unexpected detail and tactile interest to the home. Team wood or stone in a rustic, original state with finely polished versions to add contrast. Opt for natural fibres such as sea grass and jute in accessories and furnishings including mirrors, footstools, or even an impressive four-poster bed. Natural materials give an earthy, grounding sense to a room and in the hands of skilled artisans, raw elements are elevated into chic objects of desire. Agate placemats, £205 for a set of four, Kim Seybert at Amara
Woodside canopy bed, hand-wrapped in seagrass rope, £14,000, Paolo Moschino
Chevron frame mirror, £175, Cox & Cox
Terry marble side table, £1,390, LuxDeco Artisan mango wood plate, from £18, Nkuku
Woven palm leaf hanging, £43.50, Ivy Nook 34 THE ENGLISH HOME
Walton & Co water hyacinth placemat, £7.50, Divertimenti
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN
Jute pouffe, Square, £79, John Lewis & Partners
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THE STARS Providence and determination have resulted in Knowsley Hall, ancestral seat of the Earls of Derby, being restored to its former glory FEATURE & STYLING COSMO BROCKWAY PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES MCDONALD
The Walnut Drawing Room is at the heart of this historic house with its Parisian boiserie panelling and intricately carved and gilded marble fireplace. The room was totally empty on Caroline’s arrival and so she had the task of making it feel like a home. Cut velvet upholstery with Ottomanera motifs adds to the sumptuous feel.
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‘The privilege of waking up in such a beautiful place inspires creative thinking, dreaming and a sense of well-being’ ABOVE The warmth of the Edwardian panelling in the entrance hall is complemented by an Aubusson carpet. ABOVE RIGHT Caroline, Countess of Derby with dachshunds Lola, Poppy and Stella in front of the Victorian loggia at Knowsley Hall. Caroline plans to publish journals written by the 14th Earl of Derby whilst on a Grand Tour of Europe and America between 1820 and 1824.
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tanding on the grand staircase of her home, Knowsley Hall, near Liverpool, Caroline Stanley, Countess of Derby, remembers when she met her husband. “I first met Edward twice in the same day, over the railings at Royal Ascot and then, to both our surprise, later that day at a wedding in Scotland,” laughs Caroline. “Of course, I had no idea what hand fate was dealing me, or that this house came with the ring.” The house itself is the arrestingly handsome ancestral home of Caroline’s husband, Edward, 19th Earl of Derby. Having unexpectedly inherited the somewhat forlorn pile from a childless uncle and aunt, the energetic young newlyweds decided in 1995 to leave behind their London lives and throw themselves into its restoration. The task was even more daunting because half of the stately house had, according to Caroline, “been let out to the Merseyside Police as their headquarters and the interiors had been partitioned up into cubicles with magnolia gloss paint everywhere.” The future chatelaine’s first glimpse of what was to be her home
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was unpromising. “Because I was travelling in my role as Assistant to the Surveyor of The Queen’s Pictures, I didn’t actually get to Knowsley Hall until several months into our courtship. I remember feeling that it was a beautiful house and park, but the interiors were bereft and unloved, as Edward’s uncle had moved out of the Hall 30 years earlier.” Where other new wives might have run for the hills at the thought of taking on such a white elephant, the romance of the estate’s history captivated Caroline. Born a Neville, a member of one of England’s oldest families, and having grown up on the historic Audley End estate in Essex, Caroline has just the sort of vim and vigour it takes to bring an important house back to life. Reflecting on the unofficial training she received as a young girl for her future role, she remembers her grandfather, Lord Braybrook, brought their own family collection alive for her. “Our family house was so soaked in history and art that when I came to Knowsley, I felt its magic immediately. Interestingly, marrying Teddy reunited the two great
TOP Buried for years under magnolia gloss paint, the Morning Room has been brought back to its original splendour. Suzani and jajim cushions from Nushka Home enliven the sofas. ABOVE The view of Knowsley Hall from the ornamental lake shows the astonishingly long facade facing the gardens. There were nearly 50
bedrooms when Caroline arrived which have now been deftly pruned down to 20, all with en-suite bathrooms. LEFT The Mahogany Library, off the entrance hall, is used to display the family collection of china. Caroline has lined the glass-fronted cabinets with deep-red silk as a backdrop to the beautifully patterned porcelain.
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The eighteenth-century Stucco Ballroom is a triumph of restoration and forms part of the Royal Lodgings built by the 10th Earl of Derby. The original decorations, with the heads of 12 Caesars and gilded swags, were added to by architect Claud Phillimore in the twentieth century.
LEFT The Octagon Folly was designed by William Kent in 1755 and has a view of Knowsley Hall across the lake. The design of the Stanley family crest on the facade is taken from a family legend of an eagle nurturing one of the family in its nest. RIGHT The interior of the Octagon Folly has traces of the original plasterwork. The family uses it for hosting lunches. Caroline found the faux bamboo dining chairs at a house sale at nearby Leverhulme Hall. The tablecloth is made from blockprinted vintage Indian fabric.
The Staircase Hall, added between 1908–1913 is a breathtaking space, hung with biblical scenes painted on vast leather canvases.
medieval families of England – the Stanleys and the Nevilles,” she adds with an amused smile. Knowsley Hall is now the home of the couple, along with children Henrietta, 24, Edward, 23 and Oliver, 19. It has a chequered past, interwoven with the pageantry of nobility. The original wing was built as a hunting lodge by Sir Thomas, 1st Earl of Derby, in 1495 to entertain his stepson, King Henry VII. The family held the Isle of Man as Kings and Lords for 300 years, as well as being patrons of both Shakespeare and Edward Lear. The 7th Earl was beheaded for the Royalist cause and, perhaps most famously, the Epsom Derby was named after the 12th Earl. Both Edward and Caroline wear it lightly. Warm and welcoming, they delight in hosting guests from all over the world, working with the likes of luxury travel agency Loyd & Townsend-Rose. The tranquil setting of the house, nestled in Capability Brown parkland, is all the more striking when the docks of Liverpool are viewed from the bedroom windows. The magnificent facade, with Caroline’s Versaillesstyle topiary planting adding a sense of theatre, is the work of several architects, including William Henry Romaine-Walker in the early twentieth-century. “The 17th Earl hired him to tidy up the house after he admired the architect’s design for Liverpool Town Hall,” says Caroline. Further embellishments included the Walnut Drawing Room, its panelling designed
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‘I invited colleagues from The Royal Collection to stay and we spent a happy few days rehanging the astonishing collection’ ABOVE The young Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret would breakfast in this dining room in The Royal Lodgings wing with their mother, Queen Elizabeth (later The Queen Mother) whilst visiting for the horse racing. Caroline found the ornate hand-painted screen in an attic. RIGHT Topiary in the gardens is laid out in the French manner. Knowsley Hall is available for private stays and is also a glorious wedding and events venue. Visit knowsleyhallvenue. co.uk
by the same Parisian firm who later created the state rooms of the ill-fated Titanic. This handsome room is used today for family gatherings and has been furnished by Caroline in fittingly sumptuous upholstery to complement the original Edwardian curtains. A stint working with royal interior decorator Dudley Poplak has been an invaluable background for the challenge of transforming the grand rooms into comfortable and inviting spaces. “Actually, the first room I tackled was the State Dining Room, built for a visit by George IV,” says Caroline. “I invited some of my former colleagues from The Royal Collection to come and stay and we spent a very happy and exhausting few days rehanging the astonishing collection of portraits.” More recent projects have included a favourite bedroom, Lord Derby’s Suite, which Caroline has covered with a bespoke floral wallcovering called Indienne from Lewis & Wood, a backdrop to a specially commissioned four-poster bed hung with pale-blue silk.
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Built in 1890, the State Dining Room is 58-feet long and is similar in style to the State Dining Room at Windsor Castle. The Earl and Countess of Derby host banquets here, both privately and for paying guests, setting the table with opulent silver and tazza dishes filled with pineapples and other exotic fruit to evoke another age.
‘My vision has always been to return the interiors to being a stately home downstairs and five-star luxury upstairs’ ABOVE LEFT Caroline has decorated the principal bedroom, Lord Derby’s Suite, in a light and elegant style. A lamp from Oka ties in with the wallpaper from Lewis & Wood. ABOVE RIGHT The bedroom of youngest son, Oliver, has been given drama with the addition of a deep red canopy over the bed and an eclectic mix of cushions from Nushka Home.
Each room has been given a particular character with homages to family personalities, such as the delightfully lavender-hued and feminine Lady Victoria Room, featuring a portrait of its namesake, Lady Victoria Bullock, great-grandmother of television personality Clare Balding. “My vision has always been to return the interiors to being a stately home downstairs and five-star luxury in the bedrooms and bathrooms upstairs,” Caroline explains. When decorating the rooms, Caroline was helped by her interior designer sister, Amanda Murray. “Having worked on large houses such as Locko Park, Amanda was thankfully undaunted by the scale of the place,” she says. “She was so helpful with colour schemes and curtain design appropriate to such large rooms. I had no idea how important pelmet depth was until she drummed it into me!” Citing Nancy Lancaster as her greatest design inspiration, Caroline has used historical paint colour
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ranges wherever possible. “Even though these paints might be slightly more expensive, I know the research that has gone into them means that the shades will be correct for the date of the house,” explains Caroline. The colours that meander through the lofty rooms, including the elegant blue Morning Room, are the perfect foil for Caroline’s eclectic finds, including silk suzani cushions and exquisite hand-painted screens. One such screen is now in the oldest part of the house, the private dining room of the Royal Lodgings, which has hosted generations of monarchs, including Her Majesty The Queen, who visited with her sister Princess Margaret when they were young. Reflecting on her relationship with Knowsley Hall, forged through many challenges and joys, Caroline says, “The privilege of waking up in such a beautiful place inspires creative thinking, dreaming and a sense of well-being. That is exactly what we hope to share with our guests who come to stay.” n
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Colourful OUTLOOK By filling this house with joyful colour and pattern, Caroline Baker has created a country retreat that is a complete contrast to her busy city life FEATURE & STYLING KERRYN HARPER-CUSS PHOTOGRAPHY BOZ GAGOVSKI
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here are remarkably few villages in England that retain a peaceful atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era, and Caroline Baker’s picturesque house nestles in one of them. Sitting atop a steep slope, with windows overlooking unobstructed views of rolling Gloucestershire countryside, the elegantly symmetrical Georgian property with lollipop trees either side of the front door resembles a child’s drawing come to life. The sun rises to kiss the front of the house, passes over horses grazing and sheep nibbling across pastureland, and sets over a neat and secluded back garden. Caroline, the owner of her eponymous property management company with satellite offices in Paris, New York and LA, bought this country retreat from her busy London life seven years ago. “When I decided to buy a weekend home in the Cotswolds, I gave myself six months to find a property, but this was the first house I viewed,” she explains. “It was a glorious summer’s day when I visited – the sun was shining, and all the windows were open.” Stepping through the front door into the wide central hall, which draws the eye beyond the stairs, right through to the back door, the drawing room beckons to the right and the dining room to the left. “I loved the Georgian style – the large windows, high ceilings, wide staircase, two entrances and the sweeping views of the drystone walls and undulating
LEFT A cocktail trolley from Soane Britain keeps the accoutrements for after dinner drinks close to hand in the dining room. The floral display is by Neil at NB Flowers in Covent Garden.
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The hall is wide enough to accommodate generous seating and antique furniture. The upholstered bench is from Soane Britain. Pudding, the cockapoo, eagerly welcomes guests.
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‘My taste is very English for my country home; in London I have a completely different palette – more refined and contemporary’ fields,” she says. “And I loved the fact that it’s rural, or as rural as one can get and still be accessible.” When Caroline moved in with her daughter in 2014, the house did not require restoration as it had been much loved and well maintained. “The couple living here had spent 30 happy years bringing up two charming girls,” she explains. However, as the interiors were in a relatively neutral palette throughout, she looked forward to the process of adding character and vibrancy to each room. “The interiors hadn’t been touched for probably 20 years,” Caroline says. “I love colour and for rooms to have their own identity. I like to feel that when you walk from one room to another, you are in a very different space. My taste is very English for
ABOVE An informal my country home; in London I have a completely different palette – it is more refined and contemporary. montage of pictures above a pair of red I believe you have to work with your architecture and velvet upholstered your surroundings.” occasional chairs Caroline has a highly developed eye for design, as creates a focal point in the drawing room. well as an enviable contacts book thanks to the type A Georgian tallboy of work she does. “We project-manage property for is a perfect fit for our clients, so I’ve come to know great craftspeople, the alcove. trades and suppliers,” she says. “However, this is a Grade II listed house, so I had to make the most of what I could do within the constraints with paint, wallpaper and joinery, and within my budget.” When it came to the kitchen, Caroline commissioned a local joiner to fit, bespoke cabinetry, painted in a barely there grey, teamed with grey-veined
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‘This is a Grade II listed house, so I had to make the most of what I could with paint, wallpaper and joinery’ ABOVE Comfortable sofas, plenty of books and subdued lighting invite lingering beside the open fire in the drawing room. LEFT Caroline in the dining room. The bucolic location of the house is echoed in the choice of Royal Oak wallpaper in Aerial by Lewis & Wood.
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marble worktops and a traditional butler’s sink. The rest of the ground-floor spaces are decorated with a beautiful, comfortable, colourful mix of old and new. When it came to injecting more pattern into the bedrooms upstairs, Caroline felt she needed some assistance, so, in 2020, she sought the guidance of interior designer Rosanna Bossom. “I met Rosie through a project that we worked on together for a client,” she explains. “I love that she has fantastic ideas, put across in a very calm way; she is in no way overbearing, listens carefully and works with your vision.” Rosanna, who has worked with both Rifat Ozbek and Nicky Haslam, has a reputation for imbuing a contemporary twist on traditional style. For the principal bedroom, she gave Caroline the confidence to use the fabulous, densely patterned Pierre Frey
ABOVE Caroline is a keen and accomplished cook and her cream Aga is in regular use. LEFT The fivebedroomed Georgian house sits like an idyllic doll’s house on an embankment at the edge of a village and has unobstructed views
of the countryside from the front. BELOW A Roman blind in Tendril Vine fabric from Soane Britain chimes with the walls painted in Cuisse de Nymphe Emue from Edward Bulmer Natural Paint. The carpet is from Stark Carpets.
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ABOVE Interior designer Rosanna Bossom encouraged Caroline to use the beautiful, densely patterned Le Grand Corail wallpaper from Pierre Frey. The bedcover is in fabric from Veere Grenney. RIGHT This elegant bathroom decorated in soft tones of duck egg acts as an en suite to the principal bedroom but also has a door to the first-floor landing. For a similar roll-top bath try Catchpole & Rye. The blind fabric and wallpaper is Palampore from Soane Britain.
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‘I like waking up to colour. If I woke up in a room that was totally neutral, I wouldn’t feel as ready to go’ wallpaper she had fallen in love with but felt nervous about using. Rosanna then redesigned key ingredients in the bedroom around the wallpaper. “Caroline and I have similar tastes, and she is very decisive, which made our job fun,” Rosanna explains. “She is adventurous and loves colour, but needed a bit of hand-holding to push it to the next level, and she is also so busy. I like to reuse as much as possible and build on character and story, otherwise a room can start to look a little processed. All the furniture was Caroline’s; we simply refreshed it. We updated the wardrobes by cutting out the Shaker panels and inserting fabric. Adding fabric to the doors absorbs sound and makes the room feel even softer. We created a bed canopy and replaced existing curtains with new ones in cream linen (reusing the originals in Caroline’s shepherd’s hut). The brown velvet trim echoes the branches in
the wallpaper and I like to use a pelmet in a bedroom because it can make windows look taller and gives more of a blackout effect.” Now the decorating is complete, Caroline is thrilled with the end result. “I loved working with Rosie,” she says, “and I like waking up to colour. It marries waking up with a positive feel to the day. If I woke up in a room that was totally neutral, I wouldn’t feel as ready to go.” Although Caroline admits her home is a continual creative outlet, it has absolutely fulfilled everything she was looking for in a country retreat. “I love the fresh air, a log fire in winter, a hazy, dewy evening in the summer,” she says. “The changing seasons are so much more apparent in the country. One is much more in touch and encouraged to slow down. Very few people could say life in the country isn’t good for one’s soul.” n
ABOVE LEFT Pelmet-topped curtains in cream linen add a quiet contrast to the wallpaper pattern in Caroline’s bedroom. The armchair is upholstered in Fez Weave from Guy Goodfellow. ABOVE RIGHT In the guest bedroom a duck egg velvet trim on the blind and curtains ties in with Marguerite wallpaper by Nina Campbell at Osborne & Little.
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Gentle APPROACH
A muted palette and time-worn vintage pieces blend with the mellow stone walls and rustic beams in this eighteenth-century farmhouse in the Oxfordshire countryside FEATURE & STYLING SARA BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY DAN DUCHARS
In the open-plan kitchen, the Bellini chairs and industrial light above the table are from 1st Dibs. The cabinetry is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue and is teamed with worktops from Neolith. The trio of pendant lights are from Hector Finch.
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‘I’ve taken inspiration from the natural tones and textures of the Cotswold stone building to create a sympathetic palette’ ABOVE LEFT Anna and Richard made the outdoor table out of scaffolding planks. The Kubu wicker tub chairs are from Field & Hawken. ABOVE RIGHT Anna stands in the new boot room with Labrador Freddie keeping an eye out for visitors. The faux flagstone flooring is from Farmhouse Flagstones.
H
aving both lived in London for 20 years, it was only after their son George was born that interior designer Anna Pullan and her husband Richard started to yearn for a more rural lifestyle. “It made us see the benefits of a country life and, as a family, we felt like we were paying the premium but no longer making the most of city life,” explains Anna. “With Richard’s mother in Summertown, Oxfordshire and my parents in Painswick, Gloucestershire, it made sense to move to one of the Cotswold villages in between, but we knew very little about the area.” Anna admits she was nervous about moving out to the country and it was not an easy process. They visited villages at weekends and chatted to other parents in parks to get the lay of the land. “We saw plenty of villages with the swoon factor, but quickly realised that having a sense of community was key for us,” she says. “We could have gone for a bigger property further out, but here we have some nice pubs and lots of clubs for George, who is nine now. We feel like we are part of
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things and really appreciate that George can walk to the playing field to meet friends.” The five-bedroom Grade II listed traditional Cotswold stone farmhouse the couple fell in love with dates back to around 1700 and is set in a quiet hamlet. “We saw a lot of properties that had been updated to varying degrees, but when we walked in here, despite it not having been touched for 50 years, it just felt like our home,” says Anna. “The interior was tired, but it had plenty of original features, including beams, fireplaces, flagstones and charming little twists and turns. Nevertheless, a change of layout was needed to make the higgledy-piggledy spaces more suited to modern family life.” Purchasing the house in 2014, Anna, Richard and George lived in it for about a year before starting any work to update it, during which time they also sold a flat in London. The wait turned out to be a blessing, as several of their plans changed over this period. The house needed replumbing and rewiring, as well as a new roof. “We had hoped to patch the roof up
ABOVE LEFT Separate from the house, the barn is a self-contained entertaining space complete with kitchenette and bathroom. The cabinetry in here was made from routed MDF and painted in a soft green called Treron from Farrow & Ball, which blends with the original cobbled floor. LEFT Two olive trees in Vence planters from Garden Trading frame the entrance to the barn. Having flexible spaces and outbuildings allows Anna and Richard
to let their home as a location for film and photo shoots through thelocationguys. co.uk. Anna can be contacted at annapullandesign. com ABOVE RIGHT In the new kitchen, Anna chose a bespoke mirror by Antiqued Mirror as a splashback for the reconditioned Aga from Avec Cookers. Cabin Wood flooring from Reclaimed Floor Company runs throughout the kitchen and the rest of the ground floor.
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ABOVE An ancient wisteria covers the picture-perfect facade of the charming eighteenthcentury farmhouse. The roof had to be removed and was refitted with Stonesfield tiles. LEFT The fireplace was moved to the sitting room from what is now the kitchen, with the Aga taking its place. The wood-burning stove came from Walkers in Burford.
but every builder we approached told us it was way beyond that point. They all advised us to move out and have the work done in one big hit, so that’s what we did,” says Anna. Renovations took a total of 10 months, including having the roof completely removed and refitted. Inside, the entire ground floor was dug up and re-laid to bring three different floor levels to the same height and achieve an open-plan flow. The original flooring was rotten, so Anna chose warm chestnut-coloured eco engineered wooden boards from the Reclaimed
‘It’s important not to stick doggedly to any particular theme and let the style and character of the property guide you’ Flooring Company for a streamlined feel throughout the ground floor. What was once a poky kitchen has become a practical boot room, and a smart new kitchen now occupies the former dining room. “We were very lucky with our conservation officer. We got consent to knock down walls and were able to
move a fire surround from the old dining room into the sitting room. This allowed us to retain a beautiful feature and create a kitchen that works for us, complete with an Aga,” explains Anna. A formerly dusty attic now houses two bedrooms and a bathroom. “We had wanted to lift the beam
ABOVE In the cosy sitting room, the Lazytime sofa from Camerich offers plenty of space for family relaxation time.
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‘I didn’t want to be too precious about the interiors and prefer a home to feel like a home, rather than a shrine to form over function’
ABOVE A mid-century rosewood cabinet, topped with Silestone, brings a retro feel to the main bathroom. The Bacco wall sconces from Julian Chichester are an intepretation of a mid-century Italian pharmacy lamp.
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OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP The tranquil principal bedroom is painted in Skimming Stone by Farrow & Ball. Pressed flowers on paper, found at Station Mill Antiques, hang from vintage bobbins in simple acrylic Muji frames. A Mark Alexander fabric has been used to upholster the sleigh bed from Sofas & Stuff. LEFT Recycled floorboards painted in French Grey Pale by Little Greene cover a wall in this shower room. The ornately patterned tiles are from Cotswold Stone & Wood Tiles whilst the metal window mirror is from Maisons du Monde.
between the attic bedrooms, but that was a step too far for the planning office,” Anna says. When it came to decorating the rooms, Anna opted for a gentle approach, letting the house, with its quirky original features, guide her. “I’ve taken inspiration from the natural tones and textures of the Cotswold stone building to create a sympathetic, muted palette, combining time-worn, natural materials with a mix of vintage furniture and rustic treasures,” she explains. The low, beamed ceilings are painted in soft, pale shades throughout to enhance the sense of space and light. Neutral, pared-back schemes allow the subtle textures to shine. Anna has added some practical, contemporary pieces to contrast with the weathered wood and antiques, creating a relaxed feel. She describes herself as a ‘self-confessed eBay queen’ and is a regular at antiques shops and fairs. “One of my favourite local haunts is Station Mill Antiques, where I buy beautiful, one-off vintage treasures. It has a fast turnaround, so I am in there every couple of weeks, sourcing pieces for myself and clients,” she says. When Anna first decided to buy a house in the country, she had planned to fill it with mid-century furniture. She soon decided that sticking rigidly to such a sleek, modern style did not suit the rustic
farmhouse. One of the nods to her original plan is a sleek mid-century cabinet in the bathroom which has been topped with Silestone and twin basins to create a smart vanity unit. The house came with a couple of outbuildings and a main barn. The latter became a lockdown project for the couple, who lifted then carefully reinstated the original cobbled floor in order to lay damp-proofing and make the barn usable. The floor is now a standout feature in this characterful, self-contained living and dining space, which also has its own kitchenette and bathroom. “This is where we congregate as a family for film nights and is fondly known as the ‘movie barn’. It is a very relaxed space,” says Anna. Richard does not always agree on Anna’s choice of vintage pieces. “I do love worn-out, old types of artwork, but Richard hates them,” she laughs. “I come home with all sorts of obscure pictures with holes in them and they just seem to work in this house. I didn’t want to be too precious about the interiors and prefer a home to feel like a home, rather than a shrine to form over function. I think it’s important not to stick doggedly to any particular theme and let the style and character of the property guide you.” n
ABOVE Antique shutters from The French House have been added to fitted wardrobes in the main bedroom for a rustic look. LEFT Anna has made the most of the space in the eaves, creating two attic bedrooms and a bathroom. The benches in this twin bedroom are from Cox & Cox and the chest of drawers is from Station Mill Antiques.
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FRESH START
Downsizing from a family home in the country to a London townhouse provides the perfect opportunity to experiment with colour and pattern FEATURE SERENA FOKSCHANER PHOTOGRAPHY RACHAEL SMITH
LEFT In the drawing room, Pineapple Frond wallpaper by Soane Britain brings warmth to the first floor setting. The armchair is covered in a striking linen by Teyssier called Hawkeswood and the sculptural Bologna table lamps are from Vaughan Designs. ABOVE The marbled lampshades from Rosi de Ruig subtly echo the colours in the room scheme.
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‘Victoria and Julian wanted their home to be cosy and inviting with space for friends to stay and the different generations to meet’ ABOVE The Blanchard Collective chairs in the dining area have been resprayed in grey gloss and have seat cushions made from Christopher Farr’s Woven Ribbon fabric. The table is from Tom Faulkner and the engineered wood flooring is from Element 7. ABOVE RIGHT Replacing brick walls with glass has transformed the Victorian townhouse at the rear. The garden design is by Rebecca Veselka and the pots are by The Chelsea Gardener.
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or most of us, downsizing from a much-loved home will provoke mingled, bittersweet emotions. On the one hand, the big move can feel like an adventure: a chance to jettison the clutter and begin a new life in fresh surroundings. But anticipation is usually accompanied by the emotional wrench of saying goodbye to a home where every room is resonant with memories – anniversaries, birthday parties and family gatherings – all those rites of passage moments that mark our lives. Closing the door on this for the final time is rarely easy. Victoria and Julian Jackson would agree. They experienced this gamut of feelings when they decamped from their rambling thatch-clad cottage in Hampshire to a neat Victorian townhouse in West London. For the couple it was a case of coming home. “We’d lived in London before we moved to the country to bring up our children. When they began to leave, we found ourselves missing having things on our doorstep such as shops and theatres. We also craved being closer to work and social events,” says Victoria.
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Over the years, the couple had tweaked and perfected their former home, turning the soaring sixteenthcentury barn into a comfortable family space. “Of course, we felt a great deal of sadness at the thought of leaving a home we had made and loved,” Victoria says, “not least the garden, which we had spent so much time designing and planting.” At the same time, Victoria and Julian’s tired yet well-kept new townhouse, set in a quiet stucco-fronted terrace, offered the chance to start from scratch. Needing professional input, they turned to interior designer Liv Wallers, who had spent several years working for doyenne of classic English interiors Joanna Wood before co-founding design studio Yellow London with fellow designer Cath Beckett. Liv’s training enables her to flit easily between designing homes in the country and town and her style sits easily between contemporary and classic, so she grasped the brief instantly. “Victoria and Julian wanted their home to be cosy and inviting, with space for friends to stay and for the different
The timeless kitchen by Mark Plant Kitchen Design is teamed with a Lancaster Kitchen Downlight by Vaughan Designs. The colourful oil painting of Kouloura Bay in Corfu is by Richard Hewlett.
In the newly created lower-ground-floor sitting room, a Roman blind in vibrant Penelope linen ikat fabric from Teyssier co-ordinates with the dusky pink Truman Junior sofa from Andrew Martin and the colourful array of cushions from Jennifer Manners and Susan Deliss. The ottoman came from Victoria and Julian’s previous home and has been covered in a Colefax and Fowler fabric.
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‘I’d never have dared use such a lot of colour and pattern. I appreciate how much comfort and cosiness all these layers have added to the house’ generations to meet,” she explains. “They didn’t want a modern house. They wanted it to feel lived in, and a little bit different.” Before starting work on the new house, there was the business of distilling a lifetime of possessions to get on with. Here the Jacksons struck lucky. The American couple who bought their Hampshire home were beguiled by its rural, English charm and offered to buy almost all the furniture and curtains on the spot. “They bought all the pieces we could replace and those which wouldn’t fit in London,” says Victoria, “or that we didn’t have a particular tie to.” Nonetheless, Victoria remembers a poignant moment when surveying the contents of the dining room, which was dominated by their cherished table. “We could seat 16 people at that dining table, and we loved hosting parties, but there was no way it would fit into our new house. I miss that piece of furniture the most, as I have such happy memories of friends and family gathered around it,” she says. “Part of my job was to recapture the sociable and practical feel of their last home, where all the generations could congregate,” says Liv, who began by reaching into the rafters to add a new top storey, where
light now flows in through dormer windows. This space is now a self-contained, indulgent, pink-painted suite for Victoria and Julian, softly embraced by sloping eaves. The original three bedrooms, with their welcoming layers of print and pattern, are for guests and family. Downstairs, the kitchen was moved from the lower ground floor to the ground floor. It was designed to echo the practical and timeless feel of the house, and includes an airy, glazed-wall dining area. Meanwhile, on the lower ground floor, the floorplan was altered to include a cosy sitting room and a library area leading to Julian’s office. Liv persuaded him to relinquish his old mahogany desk in favour of a more streamlined built-to-fit design. Removing the brick wall at the back of these two storeys and replacing it with a glazed wall has brought light and leafy views to previously gloomy parts of the interior. There are reminders of the couple’s last home everywhere. Liv worked closely with Victoria to pick possessions that would shine in their new setting. There is a vivid oil painting of a Greek bay hanging in the kitchen which, as well as adding a shot of colour, serves as a reminder of special family holidays, and
ABOVE Julian’s office on the lower ground floor opens onto the secluded garden. A bespoke bookcase, painted in Farrow & Ball’s Eating Room Red, provides ample storage for the couple’s collection of books. The repainted tall cabinet and orange armchair, with a Robert Kime cushion, are from the couple’s previous house and work perfectly in their new setting.
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ABOVE LEFT In the main bedroom, the intricately patterned Songbird headboard fabric, from Bennison, ties in with a soft pink bespoke wall colour by Benjamin Moore. ABOVE RIGHT Cleverly designed to maximise space in the main bedroom, a bespoke dressing table has been tucked in beside the new wardrobe. A favourite chair has been re-covered in Tatting Stripe by Bennison. RIGHT Pleated shades in Cairo fabric by Anna French have given the Vaughan Design lampbases from Victoria’s previous home a new lease of life. To see more of Liv Wallers’ work, visit yellowlondon.com
various pieces of furniture have been given a new lease of life with bold upholstery. Victoria was thrilled to be able to use the deep ochre, pineapple-adorned Soane Britain wallpaper she had longed for in the drawing room. It brings warmth and works perfectly as a backdrop to the layers of contrasting colours and patterns in the furniture and furnishings. Part of Liv’s role was to gently nudge Victoria out of her comfort zone and experiment with things she might not have thought of. “Their last home was countryish but clean-lined,” Liv says. “Here we’ve used a great deal more colour.” There were times when Liv encountered resistance, such as a moment of polite tension when she suggested marbled lampshades for the drawing room. “I thought ‘absolutely no way’ when I saw the photos,” laughs Victoria, “but then I saw the real thing, and knew Liv was absolutely right. They draw on all the colours of the living space, and everyone comments on them. I’d never have dared use such a lot of colour and pattern if I’d done this on my own. I appreciate how much comfort and cosiness all these layers add to the house.” Two years on, Victoria can look back to the day of the move with equanimity. “At first, I felt numb and exhausted. As we left our old house for good, I was really tearful and upset, but once we hit the motorway, a sense of excitement set in. I knew it was time to start the next chapter.” n
68 THE ENGLISH HOME
Liv has opted for a bold approach in this compact guest bedroom with the dramatic Cairo pattern from Anna French covering every surface, creating a cocooning feel. Clever bespoke storage either side of the bed even has room for clothes. The pretty cushions are from Penny Morrison.
THE ENGLISH HOME 69
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STYLE INSPIRATION Our special section dedicated to interior design and decorating begins here
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN
PERIOD DRAMA We highlighted the soon-to-be-launched Venetian Damask fabric and wallpaper from Chelsea Textiles in our New Year Honours (January 2022 issue) and are thrilled to see it used to beautiful effect on a sofa in this classical setting. Designed by Patrick Kinmonth, acclaimed opera director, costume and set designer, it has an eye-catching grand scale and a captivating faded patina, giving it a sense of its history as a treasured pattern popular since the Middle Ages. Venetian Damask, Cinder Blue, £197 a metre, Patrick Kinmouth for Chelsea Textiles
THE ENGLISH HOME 71
Time to refine
The spring collections offer an opportunity to reconsider classic English interiors, with new takes on timeless patterns in a refreshing palette of colours and layers of texture
DECORATING
T
he plethora of beautiful new fabrics and wallpapers are the perfect excuse for giving classic English interiors a stylish update. This season sees pattern, colour and textures all celebrated in tempting designs that hark back to timeless prints brought up to date with a new vibrancy. Claire German, CEO of the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, home to many esteemed design houses, says, “There is a strong sense of creative confidence across the new season collections, with a bold experimentation around colour and abstraction.” German highlights nature as an inspiration for pattern, “with a keen focus on botanical prints. There’s an emphasis on simple native species and the beauty of the garden.” There is something, too, for those seeking plainer yet still luxurious designs, with a quieter focus on fine natural materials to offer sumptuously tactile textiles and innovative wallcoverings.
COLE & SON Ardmore-Jabula is a fun collection from Cole & Son, capturing the animal kingdom and African landscapes in vibrant designs full of exuberant character certain to impress in a hallway or a cloakroom, if not in a larger space. The abstract Zulu Terrain (below) is a calmer affair – particularly in neutral tones. The shapes evoke feathers, trees and undulating hills, and though rich in detail, provide a gentle backdrop in a classic setting.
ABOVE Wallpaper, Waterlily, Midnight, £59 a roll, Wedgwood by Clarke & Clarke LEFT Wallpaper, Zulu Terrain, Slate & Duck Egg, £114 a roll, Cole & Son BELOW Wallpaper, Eversley – Jade Rose, Cinnamon Tobacco, Verdigris, from £115 a metre, Parker & Jules OPPOSITE Mia linen in various colours, £88 a metre, Manuel Canovas
CLARKE & CLARKE A celebration of the archive and heritage of iconic British brand, Wedgwood, Clarke & Clarke’s launch of nine fabrics and 10 wallpapers sees an exciting blend of colour, pattern and historic inspirations. We particularly like Waterlily (above), which celebrates the quintessential design created by Wedgwood in the 1800s and thought to have been inspired by John, Josiah Wedgwood’s eldest son, a keen horticulturalist and founder of the Royal Horticultural Society. Temper the tropical feel with a few classical touches or add more vibrancy with lively pink accents. Or opt for a lighter colourway for a fresh, crisp look.
PARKER & JULES
For lovers of chintz, the Eversley design from Parker & Jules provides a pared-back, graphic yet ultimately delicate depiction. Launched as a wallpaper at the end of autumn 2021, it is to be released as a fabric on oyster linen, heavy linen and velvet in mid-March.
THE ENGLISH HOME 73
GP & J BAKER Inspired by the English countryside in spring and summer, the Ashmore collection has a perfect synergy with an English country home. Delicate roses, leafy branches, painterly birds and blowsy peonies combine in a delicate, soft palette for a romantic, yet refined look. Managing and creative director, Ann Grafton tells how the collection would suit a quintessential English aesthetic: “The Ashmore collection perfectly captures the timelessness of country interiors where rush matting, chalky painted furniture and antique finds meet casually mismatched china and glassware, pretty floral prints and crisp vintage linens to create romantic, airy rooms.”
ABOVE LEFT Curtains, Broughton Rose, £98 a metre; chair, Weathered Linen, £115 a metre; and cushions and swatches, all from the Ashmore collection, GP & J Baker
BELOW Curtain, Toile Chinoise, £85 a metre; chair, Aublet, and cushion, Cardot, both £79 a metre, all Nina Campbell at Osborne & Little RIGHT Cornubia wallpapers, from £109 a roll, Morris & Co
MORRIS & CO We loved Ben Pentreath’s previous collaboration with Morris & Co, Queen’s Square, which saw classic designs reimagined in autumnal colourways. Cornubia completes the story with a fresh, lively palette of spring and summer colours. The well-preserved Arts and Crafts estate Porth-en Alls on the Cornish coastline provided a starting point for the palette, and Pentreath also drew on historical family connections to Cornwall and a love of the beautiful landscape to create the colours. The yellows are echoes of the daffodils and gorse flowers, vibrant turquoise blues of the ocean and greens of the luscious grasses. All combine to bring fresh new life to iconic designs such as Honeysuckle, Marigold and Willow Bough – a perfect opportunity to redecorate with an old favourite, or a fresh new introduction to heritage designs.
NINA CAMPBELL Eastern influences are a regular feature of Nina Campbell’s designs, tempered in colourways suited to an English palate. A standout piece is Toile Chinoise (left), a delicate yet modern incarnation of a toile with chinoiserie depictions of a garden, painted in watercolour. It pairs beautifully with other designs featuring bamboo and leafy fronds, or for a more classic look it can be matched to smart plains, checks and stripes in complementary colours. 74 THE THE ENGLISH ENGLISH HOME HOME 74
DECORATING
GEORGE SPENCER DESIGNS Coral Reef fabric by George Spencer Designs offers an array of neutrals, with a few deeper splashes of russet red or navy blue perfect for a mellow, relaxed mood. The delicate coral pattern is unobtrusive yet alluring and ideal as cushions but also a charming choice for an armchair or window seat, ideally overlooking the sea. Coral Reef, £136 a metre, George Spencer Designs
MANUEL CANOVAS From ornate Fabergé eggs to beautiful hot air balloons, the spring collection from Manuel Canovas has a playful aspect. An uplifting mix of colour and pattern matched by vivid, saturated plains (see opening page) gives it a wide appeal to those who want to be a little more daring. We love the idea of using a quirkier pattern – such as the air balloons – in panelling; it adds a note of fun to a refined scheme, whilst retaining the elegance and gravitas of period features.
WARNER HOUSE
ABOVE Wallpaper, L’Envol, Jade, £158 a roll; curtain, Agathe, Celeste, £120 a metre, both Manuel Canovas BELOW Chair and blind, Tabley, Spice; curtain, Lilou, Merlot; cushion, Giverney, Rouge; and swatches (from top): Pavone, Pastel; Tabley, Mulberry; Lavenham, Rose, all £65 a metre, all Warner House
With an extensive archive to draw upon, Warner House always delivers beautiful new incarnations of classic designs with a range of influences. Director, Lee Clarke, discusses the choices made for the latest offerings: “Carefully selected from our archive, the new collection seeks its inspiration from the decadent patterns of the Ottoman Empire, scenic Mughal designs and ninteenth-century chintzes. Reimagining these patterns in new colourways has brought a timeless, romantic feel to the collection. Lavenham is one of my personal favourites, combining classic elements of nineteenth-century English chintz with modern florals and a scrolling stripe trail.” Available in an array of colours, we particularly like the plums and pinks which are beguiling, yet smart paired with deep hits of navy blue. THE ENGLISH HOME 75
MARK ALEXANDER Always reliable for quality plains and textured, innovative weaves, the latest offerings from Mark Alexander do not disappoint. Mark Butcher, head of Mark Alexander, discusses the importance of linen, which features in many guises across the collection. “Linen works across seasons; it’s one of the most durable fibres and has such diverse characteristics from very clean, long-staple, wet-spun yarns, to beautiful, dry, slubby ‘vintage’ looks. Versatile and so very covetable, linen is also environmentally conscious, clever and, above all, elegant.” These beautifully made fabrics offer a timeless appeal that works for a calm, chic look or to pair with patterned pieces for contrast.
ABOVE Left-hand sofa, Patina, Sage, £117 a metre; right-hand sofa, Flanders, White Sand, £130 a metre; pouffe, Patina, Sage, and throw, Patina, Verde, both £117 a metre; cushions in Flanders or Patina, all Mark Alexander RIGHT Selection of Serrano Linen, from £99 a metre, and Danube linen, from £39.90, all Linwood
LINWOOD Sometimes less is more, and in the case of fine linen, layering soft natural tones and tactile textures is all that is needed to create subtle impact. A sustainable choice, Linwood’s luxurious linens have been woven in a range of weights and styles, offering a versatile and subtle way to add texture in upholstery and curtains.
DECORATING
JAMES HARE Creative director of James Hare, Saffron Hare reveals, “Our new Campden collection aims to weave together fabrics that work in both town and country settings. We’ve combined the cool, warm neutrals of a town palette with a lively and colourful country palette and used a lot of natural fibres in this new range.” The dual inspirations, the Regency era houses of Campden Hill, London and the pretty Cotswold market town of Chipping Campden, give this collection a broad appeal. Choose from leafy motifs and pared-back chintzes to contemporary geometrics and an ornate suzani silk stripe.
LÅNGELID / VON BRÖMSSEN Whilst we love to champion home-grown products, we could not resist the beautiful wallpapers designed by Långelid / Von Brömssen and printed by Ulricehamns Tapetfabrik. The Heritage collection combines influences from folklore and “Grandma’s garden” with a naïve charm, in a blend of ditsier scales and larger repeats in a gentle palette.
ARTE Arte’s innovative approach to wallcoverings always tempts and excites. Sculptura is inspired by traditional plasterwork. Using strips of plaster arranged to create organic geometric patterns with uneven plasterwork-type textures in assorted colours make for an interesting, subtle choice for walls. For a more prominent piece, a complementary pictorial design, Rovine (right), celebrates fine plasterwork in its completed state with a panoramic mural of Romanstyle columns and arches for a striking touch of neo-classicism.
ABOVE LEFT Curtain, Ashbee, Natural, £115 a metre, James Hare ABOVE RIGHT Wallpaper, Herons, Trench Coat, £99 a roll, Långelid / Von Brömssen at Ulricehamms Tapetfabrik LEFT Wallpaper, Rovine, £379 a panel (2m x 3m), Arte
THE ENGLISH HOME 77
DECORATING
ROMO A multi-faceted offering from Romo sees six distinct collections launched. “The six new collections offer a compendium of exquisite design, irresistible qualities, and inspiring colour palettes,” says Romo’s director of design, Emily Mould. “Decorative fabrics and wallcoverings take inspiration from an eclectic mix of cultural influences and late-nineteenth century prints, offering a glimmer into the grandeur of stately homes of the past, reimagined in a distinctly Romo style.” We particularly like Sayuri (right), with its sophisticated depictions of bamboo, ferns, and trailing flowers in delicious deep teals. Lighten the mood with pale pink on furnishings and keep woodwork sleek in a similar shade of blue-green for a streamlined approach that allows the wallpaper to shine.
OSBORNE & LITTLE
BELOW Curtain in Banjara, £175 a metre, Footstool, Nizhoni, £150 a metre; Cushion, Bandha, £95 a metre, all William Yeoward for Designers Guild
DESIGNERS GUILD William Yeoward’s Banjara is a collection inspired by the English desire for travel and bringing things home to create a globally influenced look. Prints, weaves and embroideries are brought together with a distinctive English feel, with an exotic twist. The skills and craftsmanship of other countries are also celebrated – hand-loomed and -embroidered pieces sit alongside printed incarnations of ikat weaves. The blend of different cultures makes this collection easy to layer for achieving that curiously English eclecticism. n
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPH P76 (LINWOOD) © JOHN BAILEY
The new collection from Osborne & Little is a diverse offering with plenty of botanical influences. Here we focus on the luscious Trebah Velvet and discover the design process. “We were inspired by the beautiful valley gardens and coastline of Cornwall,” explains Johanna Bright, head of design. “The change of scale within the Trebah Velvet design creates a playful perspective, where a freshwater stream cascades through the landscape to meet the sea. The surrounding fields are abundant with wild flowers and cedar trees, and in the distance we discretely painted Pendennis Castle. The design has been painted with intricate patterns similar to hand-stitched quilts.” Trebah Velvet, £149 a metre, Osborne & Little
ABOVE Wallpaper, Sayuri, Hunter, £TBC; armchair, Forenza, Tapestry cotton velvet, £69 a metre; cushion, Kara, Silver Blue, £131.50 a metre, all Romo
78 THE ENGLISH HOME
Extraordinary kitchen projects
Fitted & freestanding furniture that’s refreshingly different. Commissions fulfilled throughout the United Kingdom, Europe and worldwide.
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THE ENGLISH HOME 79
The
result
PERFECT Introduce unique style and overcome a host of design problems by commissioning bespoke furnishings and finishes
De Gournay creates fine hand-painted and hand-embroidered wallcoverings, working to a specific brief for each client. Shown here is its Chatsworth chinoiserie design, painted on 12-carat white gold gilded paper, from £1,166 a panel (915mm width).
DESIGN INSIGHT
O
pting for a custom-made design is to open up a world in which – quite literally – anything is possible. Wallcoverings, joinery, storage pieces, upholstery and many kinds of finishing touches can all be specified and individually made to suit practical and aesthetic requirements, achieve historical accuracy, fit awkward areas and, above all, express individual taste and style.
A WORLD OF WALLCOVERINGS “Going bespoke means it is possible to include elements that make a scheme look like it’s been done by an interior designer,” say Michelle Katz and Josie Lywood of Q Design House. “Bespoke allows you to bring everything together.” One of these elements, vital for creating a seamless look within a decorating scheme, is colour co-ordination, whether to match existing or proposed furnishings or fabrics, or for historical accuracy within a period property. To either end, it is perfectly straightforward to have paints mixed to an exact colour, a service offered by many paint retailers, both mainstream and at the higher end of the market. This may involve a home visit by a colour expert for an assessment of space, light and corresponding furnishings, or it is often possible to take a scrap of paint or fabric, or even a personal item into the premises to be scanned and colour-matched by a machine called a spectrophotometer. Similarly, some wallpaper manufacturers offer designs custom-coloured to suit specific requirements. It is even possible to have ceramic tiles made specifically for a particular project, to suit a Victorian fire surround, for example, or as a decorative contemporary fixture. For some spaces a scenic wallcovering may be the answer, custom-made to suit in terms of period, size, design and colour. Printed, painted and embroidered tableaux and panoramas are hugely impressive and work especially well in grand, historic properties, adding dynamism and depth, and even helping conceal flaws and amend proportions. They are often based on historical sources but can be adapted in terms of scale, colourways, scenes and
RIGHT Watts of Westminster’s Tableaux Scéniques are antique woven tapestries and hand-painted papers transcribed into digitally printed panoramic textiles and wallpapers. They can be made in different colourways and scales, with and without figures, and printed onto different substrates. Shown here is the Wolterton Verdure tapestry in the Glenmore colourway, printed on grasscloth.
LEFT This elegant bathroom by Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors features Richmond Trellis wallpaper in a bespoke colourway by Hamilton Weston, whose wallpapers can all be custom coloured. The company also develops designs from clients’ vintage fabrics, maps, prints, photographs, drawings or artefacts.
BESPOKE BRANDS A few starting points for wallcoverings: De Gournay wallpaper Fromental wallpaper Valspar paint Coat paint H & E Smith tiles
RIGHT Little Greene’s bespoke Colour Consultancy service offers the opportunity to work with the brand to recreate historical shades as well as create entirely new bespoke colours.
THE ENGLISH HOME 81
material to suit each individual use depending on the room’s dimensions, architectural features and furniture. There are also wallcovering companies that can print customers’ own designs, based on, for example, antique maps, favourite prints or photographs, a length of vintage fabric or a favourite artefact. These can easily be scaled to suit any room and offer the opportunity to create a highly personal impact and atmosphere. Another option for uniquely enhancing a space and stamping one’s personality is to commission an artist to hand paint a mural or special-effect finish. Children’s bedrooms inevitably spring to mind when considering this, but in fact anything imaginable is possible, from Grecian pillars to a trompe l’oeil butterfly. Whilst large murals are undoubtedly dramatic, decorative finishes such as woodgrain, marbling or gilding can be highly versatile, blending beautifully with other features within the room.
ABOVE Tile specialist Craven Dunnill Jackfield offers hand-carved and decorated tiles, and a glaze- and colourmatching service for walls or floors in need of restoration.
RIGHT Charlie Horner Design commissioned River Bespoke to make this solid oak dining table, working closely with the owners to ensure the table was formal yet family friendly.
82 THE ENGLISH HOME
ABOVE The Sophie Settee by Max Rollitt is handmade using traditional techniques. Fabric, finish and dimensions can all be adjusted according to requirements. LEFT The Colourist Furniture collection by Georgie Wykeham Designs includes the Scallop console table shown here. All pieces can be painted to suit a client’s interior.
DESIGN INSIGHT FURNITURE MADE INDIVIDUALLY There are several reasons why commissioning bespoke furniture – including upholstery, beds, tables and chairs, desks, chests of drawers and all kinds of other pieces – can benefit a scheme. In addition, it is generally better quality and rarely a great deal more expensive than buying off the shelf. For some, buying bespoke may be driven by the need to replicate an antique piece, perhaps to create a pair or to complete a dining set; for others, it is often a case of wanting something that is unique and personal, designed and made to an exact and individual specification. A special requirement such as a deep sofa for a tall couple, or a certain type of storage for a prized collection, could be the motivation, or it could be that the architecture of the house concerned dictates what works best within it, be that a slender, mirrored console for a dark, narrow hallway, or a grand dining table for a spacious room. “Scaling is a great advantage of making bespoke furniture,” says Katie Glaister, co-founder K&H Design. “You can get something that’s the perfect size, which is crucial for the harmony of a carefully constructed room. You can also create a certain style, such as contemporary piece that works well in a classical room.” Katz and Lywood explain that they almost invariably have sofas made bespoke for their clients. “Normal sofas come in standard dimensions, but rooms don’t, and it can make a very big difference to have that extra five or ten centimetres to work with, especially in a wonky house. When you do things bespoke, you design in advance and then spend the money, so you don’t end up wasting money on things RIGHT In this open-plan space by Christopher Peters Bespoke Kitchens & Interiors, the blue and natural oak
Fiona McDonald Makes offers bespoke furniture made in the UK and lighting and mirrors hand-crafted in Italy. Shown here are the Cosmo cabinet and Caspar armchair and footstool.
storage unit complements the kitchen cabinetry and links the kitchen with the dining area.
BESPOKE BRANDS Furniture makers offering a customised service The Sofa & Chair Company Beaudesert Beaumont & Fletcher William Yeoward Savoir Beds THE ENGLISH HOME 83
ABOVE Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Company offers the option to customise its products. Each bed is individually made to order by
master craftsmen at its workshop on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. Shown here is the new Willow bed, from £3,215 for a double.
that don’t work.” Custom-made furniture can also balance the sometimes tricky choice between comfort and aesthetics, they add. “We send our clients to sit on sofas to see what seat depth and height, arm height and so on they like best, so there is no sacrificing what the sofa looks like versus what’s comfortable to sit on.” Considering comfort, a bespoke bed can be the perfect solution for good looks as well as a good night’s sleep. Henriette von Stockhausen, co-founder and creative director of VSP Interiors, explains that a custom-made four-poster bed can be particularly welcome in a country house with cavernous, high-ceilinged rooms. Her designs are often based on antique four-poster frames but made wider for modern requirements, and also taller to keep satisfying proportions. “Our range can be made with elaborate carvings or in simple Georgian style, fully upholstered or bare, painted or lacquered, metal, mirror or wrapped in fabric,” she says. “Anything is possible, but in essence they all do the same thing, which is to create extra comfort and a sanctuary, a room within a room – a good night’s rest being more important than ever in our fast-moving lives.” 84 THE ENGLISH HOME
ABOVE Jeffreys Interiors turned a sizeable spare bedroom into a luxurious dressing room with solid oak cabinetry built and hand-painted by Sculleries of Stockbridge. The delicate blossom branch handles are by Michael Aram.
RIGHT Michelle Katz of Q Design House commissioned a bespoke sofa to fit this cinema room, and custom shelving with concealed LED lighting and wallpaper at the back to create interest.
BESPOKE BRANDS A selection of expert joinery service suppliers Christopher Peters Neville Johnson Smallbone Bisca
DESIGN INSIGHT
BUILT-IN SOLUTIONS
TOP & ABOVE RIGHT This London home office was designed and made by luxury bespoke furniture specialists Gosling. The desk has been built around the radiator under the window and flows into the bookshelves to create a visually harmonious room. ABOVE LEFT The mirror-panelled walls of this bathroom by Azelle Design reflect light and create
impact. They were designed and handmade by Dominic Schuster. LEFT With high-level cupboards and low-level shoe shelves, plus a bench seat and hooks for coats, hats and tack, this bespoke boot room by Davonport was created to suit the home owner’s specific requirements. Bespoke designs by Davonport start from £35,000.
Bespoke joinery and other built-in options can be the answer to all sorts of intractable problems, especially lack of storage space, as well as offering an opportunity to add character. There should be no need to compromise on style or practical requirements. “Bespoke designs, unlike freestanding furniture, enable you to make the most of every bit of available space in your home – be that a perfectly fitted, full-length wall of impactful wardrobes, or working around more awkward architectural features such as sloped ceilings, chimney breasts and alcoves,” says Philipp Nagel, director of bespoke wardrobe company Neatsmith. “Choosing bespoke not only creates furniture that completely fits in your home, but it also maximises all the available storage opportunities.” From media storage, bookcases, wardrobes or entire rooms, bespoke joinery can be designed to complement elements such as mouldings and architraves, correct odd proportions, create symmetry, integrate lighting, disguise unattractive features and integrate seamlessly into the home. Whether commissioned from a local tradesperson, a national company or through an interior designer, it is like a perfectly tailored, handmade suit – subtly but perfectly complementary. Other built-in options beyond joinery are also worth considering. Wall-to-wall mirroring, for example, satisfies a practical requirement in a bathroom or dressing room, will bounce light around a room and – if made from beautiful antique or gilded glass – add depth and interest, too. Balustrades are relatively easy to replace, completely changing the look of a staircase, perhaps with feature newels and even, if space permits, tailored bottom treads. The most common way of dramatically transforming the look of a hallway and staircase is to replace traditional timber spindles with glass – for a contemporary look – or steel uprights, which can be modern or traditional in style. Even bathware can be adapted to desired sizes or finishes, work better within the space, accommodate taller or shorter people, offer more practicality or co-ordinate with existing fittings. THE ENGLISH HOME 85
The ultimate advantage of buying bespoke is, of course, the ability to personalise, to own something unique, created individually to an exact design of choice. Custom pieces can also provide delightful finishing touches, whether in the form of a light fitting, a headboard, a cushion trim, a rug or even a small cupboard knob. Interiors professionals will often specify cushions, for example, to achieve perfectly complementary shapes, sizes, colours and patterns, down to the details of an edging of coloured piping or perfectly sized corner tassels. A rug can be resized in order to suit the floor plan of a room and the furnishings within it (or entirely new rugs can be made to a customer’s design). Even window and door hardware can be made to size, style or in a particular material. Lamp shades can be made in particular fabrics, or with the addition of a silver or gold card lining, for example, and headboards – often the source of the ‘wow factor’ in a bedroom – can be made in virtually any desired size, using unlimited choices of fabrics and detailing. “The luxury interiors market allows consumers to indulge their aesthetic preferences and offers unique, bespoke and luxurious experiences, says Martin Waller, founder of Andrew Martin. “Increasingly, customers want individual and personalised pieces that are a true reflection of their personality, as this is what makes the difference between a house and a home. Our customers want flexible and adaptable pieces of furniture that fit with their homes and lifestyles. From custom headboards to sectional sofas, uniqueness and function are top of the agenda. On a smaller scale, clients are opting for bespoke accessories, from rugs and cushions to mirrors and lampshades, to inject individuality into their homes without overhauling their interior scheme.” As an example of personalisation, one of K&H Design’s recent projects included a bedroom light fitting with metal ‘leaves’, 86 THE ENGLISH HOME
onto which the dates of birth of the clients’ children were engraved. “Our clients want something that’s unique to them, and when commissioning bespoke they can put onto their wish list the little details they want, which is just not possible if you buy from a shop,” says Glaister. “We create these individual pieces, and in turn they tell a story and become future heirlooms. That’s the fun thing about interior design, it’s about really listening to everybody and then making it work through bespoke.” n
ABOVE A statement headboard can transform a bedroom. Andrew Martin has a range of custom designs such as this Prescott model and
they can be made to order in a variety of styles, sizes and fabrics, either from Andrew Martin’s range or a client’s own fabric.
FEATURE KATHERINE SORRELL PHOTOGRAPHS P81 (VSP INTERIORS) © PAUL MASSEY. P83 (CHRISTOPHER PETERS) © MARK HARDY. P85 (DRESSING ROOM) © ZAC + ZAC. P86 (GOSLING) © RAY MAIN. P86 (ANDREW MARTIN) © DOMINIC BLACKMORE. P87 (NICKY DOBREE) © PHILIP VILE
FINISHING TOUCHES
DESIGN INSIGHT
Final flourishes that can be tailored to suit Samuel & Sons Watts of Westminster Cox London Looking Glass of Bath The Rug Company ABOVE This drawing room by Nicky Dobree includes bespoke joinery, seating, curtains, blinds, elegant oval brass window handles, and a Kelly Wearstler rug made by The Rug Company to a custom size. LEFT The Ealing Pendant from David Hunt Lighting can be sprayed in any colour of choice by the company’s custom service.
ABOVE RIGHT Passementerie specialist Samuel & Sons offers a semi-custom and a full-custom service which offers trimmings tailored to the specification. RIGHT Architectural ironmongery firm Croft offers a bespoke design service. From the initial idea, the team develops computer renderings and 3D-printed samples before crafting each piece.
BESPOKE BRANDS For final flourishes that are tailored to suit Samuel & Sons Watts of Westminster Cox London Looking Glass of Bath The Rug Company
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THE ENGLISH HOME 87
THE STORY OF BARNES OF ASHBURTON
CRAFTED FOR LIFE
W
hen furniture designer Patrick Gunning decided to turn his hand to creating handmade, bespoke kitchens in 1980, he was unwavering in his vision for the business. He had two priorities: to use traditional joinery techniques and make the highest-quality cabinetry – both of which remain at the heart of his company, Barnes of Ashburton, 40 years on. Gunning is still involved in the business, but 10 years ago he decided to step back and focus on his passion for music. He knew, however, that he would be leaving the day-to-day running of the company in safe hands – the team now in charge have all worked there for many years and the brand’s ethos is as strong as ever. Kim Whinnett, director, says, “At Barnes of Ashburton it has always been about the craftsmanship. In today’s world the demand for things to be made quickly and cheaply means kitchens can lack the quality and longevity of a more traditional approach. We offer a lifetime guarantee because we have complete confidence our kitchens will last.” This confidence comes from using the strongest wood-joining technique – the traditional, hand-crafted morticeand-tenon joint. This is where one piece of wood is inserted into a corresponding hole in another piece of wood at 90 degrees. Today, like other purveyors of fine kitchen craftsmanship, Barnes of Ashburton has moved into making cabinetry for other areas of the home – from living rooms and bedrooms to studies and boot rooms – with the same attention to detail. Over the years, the company has designed, built and installed kitchens and other cabinetry in a staggering array of properties, from luxurious seaside developments to historic buildings. “We pride ourselves on making kitchens that enhance your
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home. We are as happy working within the irregularities of an old period building as the dramatic designs of modern architecture,” Whinnett says. All the kitchens and cabinetry are made from scratch in the company’s Devon workshop. Typically, the process begins with a site visit so the designers can get a feel for the client’s home, before budget, timescale, style and specific needs are discussed. The spaces are measured meticulously, taking into account everything from irregular walls and ceiling beams to uneven floors. “A new kitchen is a major investment, but because the kitchens are made by hand, we have absolute control of costs and can tweak the design so we always stay within your budget,” says Whinett. “In most houses these days, the kitchen is the heart of the home, so it is vital that the space really works for the family. It’s all about ensuring there is ample storage and the best use of space. Kitchens are for so much more than cooking these days, so need to work as a place to relax and entertain, too.” Though craftsmanship is at the core of what Barnes of Ashburton does, the company knows that alongside the bespoke, hand-crafted elements of the kitchen, customers these days also want all the mod cons. It has strong relationships with leading appliance manufacturers as well as worktop and lighting suppliers. With so much of its business coming through word of mouth, it is the personal touch that seems to set Barnes of Ashburton apart. It is proud of its history and encourages all its customers to visit its workshop in Devon to really see the heart of the business and the attention to detail that goes into every aspect of a new kitchen. The company’s successful traditional approach seems to demonstrate that sometimes the old ways are the best. n
FEATURE KATE FREUD PHOTOGRAPHS © PAUL RYAN-GOFF
A commitment to traditional joinery techniques and cabinet-making at Barnes of Ashburton’s workshop in Devon ensures its designs endure for generations to come
PARTNER FEATURE
ABOVE Classic-style kitchen, hand-painted in Farrow & Ball’s Light Blue and Porphyry Pink, from £36,000. FAR LEFT Boot room with solid oak pull-out boot and shoe storage, from £24,000. LEFT Secret door and passageway to the kitchen, from £5,400. OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT Dog bed incorporated within cabinetry, from £960. Window seat with internal storage, from £1,800. Classic-style bedroom furniture, with solid oak dressing table top and internals, from £15,000.
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We Make The Seats, You Make The Memories The only bespoke swing and bench maker licensed by the RHS
sittingspiritually.co.uk 01297 443084 ® The Royal Horticultural Society. The Royal Horticultural Society, and its logo, are trade marks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) and used under licence from RHS Enterprises Limited.
SI0178 The English Home UK April 2022 HPH AW.indd 1
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26/01/2022 12:45
Bedded Bliss
BUYER’S GUIDE
Ensure the best night’s sleep possible with soothing, stylish decor, a comfortable bed and cossetting, sustainable soft furnishings and accessories
T
he desire for a good night’s sleep should be the requisite behind every bedroom design. Mattresses that provide the right level of support for the neck and head, combined with pillows and duvets made from sustainable materials, should be the foundation for quality rest and relaxation.
Take a cue from timeless looks and combine beautiful shades of colour, furniture designs and accessories to give the bedroom a seasonal refresh. Be inspired by the calming effect of soft neutrals, the reassuring charm of classic heritage designs or the fanciful exuberance of a romantic style and prepare to dress the bedroom with finesse.
ABOVE No2 The Icon Felix bed, £32,270, Savoir Beds. Headboard, Malmo linen, £250 a metre; Cream Wool Waffle bedspread, £891; Linen/Wool Bouclé cushion (far left), £231; bespoke cushions made using (from left): Hoxton Linen £180 a metre, Malmo Linen £250 a metre and Hunter linen, £225 a metre; curtains, Cricket linen, £145 a metre, all de La Cuona
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Calm
Create an environment conducive to good sleep and relaxation with colours, textures and materials that are calming to behold. White is often seen as a safe option for walls, bedding and accessories, but its ability to induce a sense of order on the senses means it is an excellent choice for creating a welcoming sanctuary to retreat to at the end of the day. To maximise the effect, use a palette of off-whites and pale neutrals in rooms that are blessed with natural light, ensuring, of course, that windows are sufficiently covered for blocking out any light at night. As Dr Rebecca Robbins, Savoir Beds sleep expert, points out, “Whereas bright light wakes us up, darkness is what allows the sleepinducing hormone melatonin to secrete in the brain, so ensure your curtains can close and your bedroom can be completely dark when you are attempting to sleep.” Natural materials also have a calming effect, so source furniture and accessories in pale oak, ash or whitewashed pine. Rustic-style benches, side tables and baskets provide a relaxed, summer coastal-style bedroom that is light and airy. Use bedlinen and accessories to add hints of soft colour and for a seasonal update. Pale aqua, duck egg and blush pink will feel refreshing in a predominantly white bedroom, whereas darker, muted lilacs, soft greys and taupes will add warmth in the cooler months. Introduce subtle decorative detail with a simple pattern such as a utilitarian or nautical stripe or a contrasting trim. Even a textured white throw or a knitted cellular blanket will add interest yet keep the look light, bright and beautiful without being visually overbearing. TOP Hatton 3 Pendant £315, Original BTC RIGHT Osaka seagrass storage baskets small £85, large £95, Ella James FAR RIGHT Axel cream rug £499, Danetti
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ABOVE Charlie headboard, from £1,110, Ardel linen bedspread, large, £370, all other products Neptune
BUYER’S GUIDE
LEFT Natural oak Teramo two-door wardrobe £1,780, Ercol RIGHT Emilia double bed in Alabaster brushed linen cotton, £860; Taylor side table, £290; Ecclestone scatter cushion in Millennial Pink, £35; Ecclestone scatter cushion in Cornish Fudge, £35, all Sofa.com
ABOVE Natural Ticking Stripe linen bedding bundle with double duvet, two pillowcases and white linen fitted sheet, £224, Chalk Pink Linen Company
LEFT From top: Bexley Stripe cushion cover, £35; Somerton Oxford pillowcase, £25; Selby throw, £140; Bexley Stripe bedspread, £140, Burnham bench, £325, all The White Company BELOW Bedroom designed by Albion Nord
ABOVE Lana Dressing Table II in European Oak, £5,380, Pinch Design
Limewashed Parquet chest of drawers, £695, Cox and Cox
ABOVE Rose Blush Pink Merino throw, £132, Tolly McRae THE ENGLISH HOME 93
Classic Apply a modern approach to traditional design for a bedroom style that is classic, comfortable and full of heritage charm with rich, indulgent colourways and opulent textures. Dark shades of grey, blue and green work particularly well in period homes. Team with antique furniture that is luxurious in design and detail, such as traditional bedsteads in iron, brass or pewter whose generous proportions will work well in a room with high ceilings. An oversized headboard in sumptuous velvet or wool will have a similar effect. “A large headboard helps to ground the room whilst also acting as an attractive focal point,” Adam Black, co-founder of Button & Sprung, explains. “Curved or winged designs with luxurious upholstery will add interest whilst contributing to a classic, hotel-inspired look and feel many homeowners desire.” Add oak and mahogany cabinetry, antique carved mirrors and dressing tables, and artisan pieces such as charming bobbin tables and consoles, and use symmetry to add an element of formality when hanging pictures or positioning lighting. Dress the bed with crisp Egyptian cotton or soft pure linen sheets, opting for a top sheet and a cashmere throw during the warmer months as a seasonal alternative to a heavy duvet. Introduce pattern with soft furnishings and accessories in classic ikat, Indian floral and kilim designs in rich colourways of saffron yellow, paprika, teal and gold to bring an exotic and exuberant element to the mix. ABOVE Mahogany and gilt mirror with gold-leaf scallop shell and Prince of Wales ostrich feather, £1,195, Titchmarsh & Goodwin RIGHT Avirai rug (240cm x 305cm) in Antique Green, £1295, Oka FAR RIGHT George double bed in solid brass and cast iron, £2,595, Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Company
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ABOVE Croxton Double bed in Caramel Gold plates £96 Velvet, £1,495, Rockett Stdinner George for 6, side plates £60 for 6, Handsworth 24-piece cutlery set £90, all Neptune BELOW vases £7.95 each, Sarah Raven
Pod table lamp, £173, Pooky
BUYER’S GUIDE
TOP Eclectic dressing table, from £2,250, And So To Bed ABOVE Saray Ottoman in Zold linen, £900, Mind The Gap BELOW Billington swing arm wall light, £448.80, Vaughan Designs
TOP RIGHT Camelia king-size bed upholstered in Mercury, with Ebony Shark’s Tooth legs £1,245, Button & Sprung RIGHT Montpelier chair, £1,035, plus three metres of fabric, David Seyfried
Atkins and thyme
RIGHT Elodie printed bedspread, £280; Elodie cushion, £85, both Sweetpea & Willow
ABOVE Cushion made in Sonnet Sateen Jacquard in Oasis, pillows made in Fresco Alaska, both £122 a metre; Reversible Cashmere bed throw in Silver/White £975, all Johnstons of Elgin THE ENGLISH HOME 95
Romantic Create a dreamy bedroom full of romantic charm with furniture and accessories inspired by the glamour of times gone by. From the indulgent art deco era to the extravagantly lush rococo style, period designs can inspire colour, texture, furniture and accessories for a bedroom sanctuary that is decadent in every way. Soft shades of powder pink, peach, mint green and pale blue work particularly well with the rich gilt, gold and metallic tones of these iconic looks. Source furniture that is indulgent in shape and style, such as upholstery with heavy fluted detailing or ornately shaped headboards, which can be upholstered in any fabric to suit, for example, silk, satin or damask. Accessories such as mirrors carved and gilt-edged detailing and opulent glass chandeliers add further decadence. For an ethnic twist introduce chests of drawers and cabinets with intricate inlaid patterns made from mother of pearl or flowery carved wood panels. Floral patterns are ideal for making a romantic statement in a bedroom. Consider a bold, graphic rug design creating a focal point in the centre of a room, a pretty floral print for bed linen or simply a posy of scented flowers on a boudoir-style dressing table. As Joanna Ross, general manager of design at Sheridan, says, “Utilise nature. Bring the outside in and add flowers and perhaps a spring-inspired floral bed linen or wallpaper to add a lovely romantic feel to a bedroom.”
RIGHT Lexington Fuchsia two-line satin-stitch cotton sateen double duvet cover, two pillowcases and fitted sheet bedlinen bundle, £205, The Fine Cotton Company 96 THE ENGLISH HOME
TOP Knightsbridge chandelier, £4,931, Christopher Hyde ABOVE GingerLily silk double duvet cover, £389, The French Bedroom Co
ABOVE Scalloped bedspread, in collaboration with Katharine Paravicini, £185, Sarah K LEFT Atika grey carved chest of drawers, £399, Atkin and Thyme BELOW Broadway console, £399; Carnaby footstool in Champagne Pink velvet, £119, both Atkin and Thyme
BUYER’S GUIDE
ABOVE Natural Flora boudoir cushion, £14, Julian Charles RIGHT Constance headboard, from £6,850, excluding fabric, Ensemblier
ABOVE Bedroom designed by VSP Interiors RIGHT Caprini Multi quilt cover set, from £159, Sheridan BELOW Peonia Grande Zinc rug, £2,250, Designers Guild
RIGHT Margaux Pink Velvet emperor bed, £2,129, Pepper Sq
Delphis wall light in decape and gold finish, £2,365, Beaumont & Fletcher
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Sustainable These days, in an ever more environmentally conscious world, mattresses, pillows, duvets and even bed linen made from eco-friendly and sustainable materials are often crafted using traditional methods combined with innovative technology. A good-quality mattress that supports the neck, head and spinal cord is imperative for a good night’s sleep, for posture and physical health. Eco mattresses often include wool as the optimum natural filler for traditional pocket sprung mechanisms, creating a product that is synthetic- and chemical-free as well as preserving and protecting local farming communities and heritage sheep breeds. Wool also has hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. When it comes to headboards and bed bases, seek out those that use wool alongside Tencel – a sustainable fibre made from tree pulp and FSC-certified wood. Dressing the bed can be an environmentally beneficial process, too, with organic cotton, natural linen and bamboo fibres being used for bedlinen. Source certified organic textiles made from 100 per cent natural fibres and manufactured without the use of harmful chemicals. Whilst cotton makes for comfortable, crisp, cool bedlinen, linen boasts superior eco credentials. Made from naturally biodegradable flax, it is exceptionally hardwearing, so is an investment for years to come. Alternatively, consider products made from recycled fabrics and materials, such as recycled-wool throws and pillows made from recycled feathers. ■
FEATURE SARA EMSLIE PHOTOGRAPHS P91 © JON DAY. P93 (PINCH) © JAMES MERRELL; (ALBION NORD) © EDMUND SUMNER. P95 (BUTTON & SPRUNG) © TIM YOUNG; (VAUGHAN) © CHRISTOPHER DRAKE. P96 (SARAH K) © ANNA STATHAKI. P97 (VSP INTERIORS) © PAUL MASSEY; (PEPPER SQ) © JOSE HITA. P98 (BEAUMONDE) © MICHAEL BAY; (TRUE LINEN) © JAMES BROOME
BUYER’S GUIDE
Bloomingville recycled pink cotton throw, £26, Beaumonde
RIGHT Isabella 100 per cent natural upholstered bed made from FSCcertified timber and filled with natural coir and organic wool, £2,329; double mattress filled with natural British wool, from £899, both The Wool Room
RIGHT Oat waffle organic cotton and linen throw, £129.99, True Linen LEFT 100 per cent natural mattress with wool and hemp filling, from £3,395 (double), Maker & Son RIGHT Oat waffle organic cotton and linen throw, £129.99, True Linen BELOW Eco pillow, £69, Herdy
ABOVE & LEFT The Cloud bamboo double duvet, £129.95 and Urban Grey bamboo bedding set, £92, both Wearth London 98 THE ENGLISH HOME
PROMOTION
BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN
Reinvigorate spring interiors with fresh bed linen in designs inspired by nature
FEATURE KATE FREUD
F
or New Zealand based textile brand MM Linen, there is never a shortage of inspiration – which is found in the infinite and unwavering beauty of the natural world – for its collections. The striking range of luxury bedding, ready-made curtains and cushions, alongside a growing range of beautiful homestyle accessories, is designed to bring the outdoors in. To help create the intricately detailed range, Kerry Jackson, founder and creative director of MM Linen, has cherry-picked some of the most talented artists from around the world to bring the seasonal collections to life. “Each design in our product portfolio is hand-painted using a variety of art media to capture the diminutive details in nature that make it so breathtakingly beautiful.” From its bestselling Fiori, full of floral drama, to the more whimsical woodland appeal of Briar, MM Linen looks to both flora and fauna to inspire its collections. Every piece is designed to be effortlessly paired, layered and co-ordinated with other designs from the
range, allowing for a truly original way to update and refresh interiors. As a champion of the natural world, it goes without saying that MM Linen holds sustainability close to its heart, and, as a carbon-neutral company, offsets all the emissions created from seed to store by investing in clean energy. Not only that, in a move to proactively reduce the amount of plastic that is discarded as waste, it has introduced fabric packaging to its entire range. This spring, MM Linen launches its SS 2022 bedding designs, including the chic and modern Isola, which boasts posy-style flowers on a rust-gold background; Carrie, with its pretty meadow flowers scattered over a pastel base; and Valencia, a dramatic and romantic flurry of large painterly blooms for those looking for statement bed linen. Whichever design is chosen, the uplifting benefits of being surrounded by nature without having to step outside the front door are guaranteed. n
ABOVE LEFT A large-scale floral print of intense yet delicate handbrushed blooms, Fiori bed linen exudes an opulence that creates a show-stopping focal point in the bedroom. Fiori, from £105 for a double duvet set ABOVE A classically modern design, Isola features a flourish of posystyle flowers on a rust-gold background. Isola, from £105 for a double duvet set
MM Linen is available at mmlinen.com and johnlewis.com THE ENGLISH HOME 99
CALLAGHANS OF SHREWSBURY
POWERFUL PORTRAITS When Spanish artist Ignacio Trelis decided to travel the world, he developed a portfolio of portraits inspired by his cultural explorations
W
hen you are born into a family with a deep appreciation of art, it is almost impossible for it not to rub off on you, as was the case with Spanish artist Ignacio Trelis, who was born in 1960 and particularly drawn to painting from an early age. Mastering his art whilst studying at The Spanish Academy in Rome, he continued his studies at several other art academies in Europe before honing his skills under the watchful eye of Spanish master painter Paco Barrachina. Before long, Trelis’s exceptional talents caught the attention of his local community and he found himself with a successful career as a talented landscape artist, exhibiting extensively throughout Spain and with his own gallery in Valencia. Whilst Trelis enjoyed capturing the beautiful Mediterranean vistas, arid landscapes and coastal scenery of his surroundings, he found his work was being emulated all too frequently and decided to experiment with different styles and step well out of his comfort zone. Keen to explore new and different sources of inspiration, Trelis decided to travel the world and see where his adventures would take him. This bold step led to a whole new portfolio of portraits inspired by different cultures across the globe and he is probably best known now for this period in his artistic career. Daniel and Stella Callaghan – who own prestigious art gallery Callaghans of Shrewsbury – are particular admirers of Trelis’s work. With their 35-year history, Daniel and Stella have garnered a reputation worldwide for their extensive knowledge of European art and artists, specialising in European nineteenthand twentieth-century oils and watercolours. “We are immensely proud to have been working exclusively with Ignacio Trelis for over 20 years, during which time we have held several solo exhibitions for him,” Daniel explains. “These often prove a sell-out as people find themselves captivated by Trelis’s otherworldly portraits.” LEFT Blue Princess, Oil on Panel, 36cm x 25cm
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PARTNER FEATURE
ABOVE Chinese Princess, Oil on Panel, 46cm x 46cm BELOW Brewing Storm, Oil on Panel, 20cm x 30cm
Whether painting an African princess or a shaman, a tribal woman or a sadhu (a holy man of India), everything from their dress and jewellery to their body art and headwear is a source of fascination and inspiration for Trelis. From tribal warriors with pierced eyebrows to the breathtaking detail of kimonos worn by Japanese women, his attention to detail is outstanding and his passion for exploring global cultures is clear in every brushstroke. Each of Trelis’s portraits is surrounded by what appear to be abstract shapes in vibrant shades, but no part of any of his paintings is accidental. Often, each shape, in fact, represents symbols from the relevant cultural traditions. “Trelis’s attention to detail is phenomenal,” says Stella. “He captures the true essence of the characters he paints with grace and empathy.”
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A clear example of this is shown in Trelis’s Shaman painting, a detailed, mystical depiction of a spirit-world guardian to which there is more than meets the eye. Immediately obvious are the impressive plume of feathers, jewel-like beads and azure-blue tones, but upon further inspection, each element Trelis has included holds symbolic meaning. For instance, the horns adorning the shaman’s ears are there to indicate strength as well as humility, two key characteristics required by a shaman as a figure who often represents an area in times of war as well as celebration. The simplistic yet striking background of the painting draws attention to the shaman and his rich historical practice, whilst the dripping effect towards the bottom of the painting gives a nod toward modernism, blending the traditions of centuries with the techniques of the present. Another example is Blue Princess, whose features glisten as a result of Trelis’s skilful build-up of paint, allowing the work to appear as if the princess has been captured in-between a state of repose and action. Her lack of direct eye contact creates a sense of mystery, a frequent theme throughout Trelis’s work, which lets the viewer create their own personal connection with each piece. This genius and originality, central to so much of Trelis’s work, has allowed him to build a reputation as one of the most highly regarded Spanish contemporary painters. “Trelis really is one of our favourite contemporary artists in the gallery. We couldn’t be more excited to be preparing for his next exhibition which is aptly named Around the World in 80 Faces,” Stella explains. “As an artist he is a joy to work with and his pieces appeal to a complete cross section of clients and interior designers from around the world. It’s funny really, but whenever we sell one of his pieces, we are always rather sad to see it go, it’s like saying goodbye to an old friend.” n callaghan-finepaintings.com
ABOVE LEFT Shaman, Oil on Panel, 91cm x 56cm LEFT Sadhu Varanesi by Ignacio Trelis, Oil on Panel, 99cm x 61cm, and Exceptionally Rare Three Seater Sofa, c1900, by Carlo Bugatti, H142cm x W246cm x D53cm
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FEATURE KATE FREUD PHOTOGRAPH P102 (BUGATTI © DE JETLEY MARKS PHOTOGRAPHY
PARTNER FEATURE
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Heritage Style
Acclaimed interiors stylist Selina Lake shares her personal take on how to celebrate the original elements of a period home whilst decorating for contemporary living
H
eritage style describes the balance of period properties with modern-day life. I love the definition of the word ‘heritage’ from the Oxford English Dictionary: ‘The history, traditions, buildings and objects that a country or society has had for many years and that are considered an important part of its character.’ When I added the word ‘style’, I wanted to evoke a modern sense of nostalgia. My inspiration derives mostly from unique old buildings that have one foot in the past and one stepping into the future. I love to see how the craftsmanship and decorative details have stood the test of time. Unfortunately, in the twentieth century, many older properties were stripped of period details that were then seen as ‘fussy’ but are now highly sought after. If you own such a building, you may be considering how to restore it at the same time as making it relevant to today. Or perhaps you live in a new build and are wondering how your inherited pieces will fit in? Heritage style is all about preserving the past whilst incorporating your own heritage and personal style, in keeping with the character of your space. Research period architecture and heritage colours and patterns, or look to your surrounding area and its history. Every home is different, but I hope my take on heritage style, along with the designers and homeowners who have opened their doors here, will inspire you. Along the way, I will offer tips on what to celebrate in an older property, together with ideas for colours, patterns and furniture with which to enrich your space.
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PERIOD FEATURES
ABOVE This Georgian sash window with built-in shutters and seat is the perfect spot to look over the garden
Celebrating original elements starts by preserving the architectural details of which you have become a custodian when buying or renting a period property. These may include old pine floorboards, attractive plaster cornices/ crown moldings, wooden ceiling beams, decorative nineteenth-century tiles and pretty fireplaces. Original features such as these will give an instant injection of heritage style, even if they need a bit of restoration or a coat of paint. But what if you live in a different kind of home – one where all the period charm has been ruthlessly ripped out, or in a new-build house or modern apartment? The good news is that it is possible to reproduce these kinds of features in your space. Salvage is the best option, partly because salvaged items are more sustainable as well as looking authentic, but if you do not have time or are not able to find suitable reclaimed examples, wooden wall panelling or tongue and groove can be bought by the metre/yard from DIY/ hardware stores and specialist suppliers. There are multiple fireplace companies offering period styles, but if you are on a budget, look at online auction sites. That is where I sourced our living room fire surround. When it comes to flooring, sourcing salvaged boards makes perfect sense and nowadays there are many companies that offer ‘new’ old flooring, as well as new flooring that looks old. You may also want to bring a sense of history sympathetically by adding decorative plaster details such as ceiling roses or cornicing/crown moldings, or build in cabinetry with classic styling. Even attaching traditional-style knobs or handles to your kitchen cabinets or front door will bring a heritage flavour, as will choosing the right paint colours – ones that evoke a sense of comfort, familiarity and warmth.
DECORATING
ABOVE Architectural features contribute to the heritage look and can be reinstated or replicated without an interior looking like a pastiche or something from a period drama. LEFT This hallway in Bella and Hugo Middleton’s Georgian manor in Lincolnshire features a classic Honeysuckle wallpaper designed by William Morris’s daughter May for Morris & Co in 1883. Bella has echoed the design by placing vases of fresh flowers on all available surfaces. The bench has cushions in a mix of floral and striped fabrics. RIGHT A bold scheme using Farrow & Ball paints results in a striking hallway.
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RIGHT & FAR RIGHT If in doubt, go for green – after all, it is the colour of nature. Interior designer Elizabeth Rose has used Green Verditer by Little Greene to add a pop of colour on her kitchen door and window. Warm earthy neutrals and rich celadon green provided me with inspiration for the moodboard opposite. OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP & BOTTOM RIGHT Blues and greens make a great backdrop for a layered look. Add a vintage rug in rich red and antique brown furniture. Do not forget flowers – here, dusky pink hydrangeas are arranged in a blue-and-white pot. BELOW LEFT & RIGHT Colour inspiration can be sparked when samples of wallpaper, fabric and paint are all gathered together so that you can see at a glance how a colour scheme will work.
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DECORATING
TIMELESS COLOUR & PATTERN Colour and pattern are key elements of heritage style and there is a huge range of heritage paint colours as well as wallpaper and fabric patterns to choose from, with many companies looking to the past and historical properties for inspiration. Others have reproduced classic wallpaper designs and relaunched historic colours for use in modern-day homes. Heritage paint ranges tend to be fairly classic (you will not find an acid lime green or neon pink), meaning they work within a wide variety of settings. They can be grouped into four categories: whites, which tend to be off-whites with warm undertones; pale tones, consisting of soft, grown-up pastels; mid-tones, which are easy on the eye, slightly muted and used to create cosy spaces; and, finally, deep tones, which are rich and dramatic. There is something to suit all spaces in period or new properties. Traditional wallpaper patterns, which were frequently inspired by nature, are often block printed in the same way now as when they were first produced. Classic designs, such as checks and stripes, are eternally popular, with gingham and wide stripes being particularly popular at present. The modern process of digital printing allows historic works of art to be reproduced as wallpaper or murals, converting tapestries and paintings into affordable yet timeless wall coverings.
FURNITURE – COMBINING OLD & NEW Antiques were built to last, which is why so many pieces have survived to tell the tale. Opting for antique and vintage furniture is a sustainable way to furnish a home, as it has already been made so does not require valuable raw materials or resources to be produced and shipped. Retro furniture from the 1950s to 1970s is very popular. Look out for mid-century armchairs, sideboards and tables at car boot/yard sales and vintage fairs – they are often neat in size and shape, so perfect for modern homes. So-called ‘brown’ furniture is making a comeback and sturdy nineteenth- and early twentieth-century pieces are desirable again. Look for bobbin furniture, campaign chests or items with scalloped detailing. Great craftsmanship stands the test of time, so it is no surprise these articles are being celebrated again.
UNIQUE PIECES Furnishing a heritage home is all about getting the right balance of old and new and blending pieces from different eras. This tends to work best when items are tonally united.
Natural-hued rattan armchairs combined with wooden furniture in a distressed paint finish come together well. Their warm, neutral tones sit comfortably against an unpainted plaster backdrop, too.
FEATURE SELINA LAKE PHOTOGRAPHS RACHEL WHITING
This elegant polished wooden chest of drawers tidies away bed linen.
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DECORATING
BRING COMFORT Cosy soft furnishings, rugs and textiles make a home into a comfortable retreat. Cushions should not be underestimated, as they have the ability to transform furniture as well as bring an inviting mood to a room. Choose ones made from textural weaves, with velvet trims and elegant ruffles. Windows can be warmed up with thick, lined curtains and fitted blinds/shades, which keep draughts at bay as well as improving acoustics. Add gentle lighting with shaded lamps or light a scented candle. Tablecloths can be used on dining tables and side tables to soften angular furniture or to add a lighter touch to brown wood pieces – I am loving the current revival of tablecloths with frilly edging. Layering is key to comfort, so dress furniture and beds with wool blankets – look out for antique Welsh blankets, as they are having a moment right now. Finally, add warmth underfoot with natural fibre rugs and wool carpets.
MODERN HERITAGE Sometimes, using antiques and traditional furnishings can give a room a stuffy, old-fashioned atmosphere, so the key to achieving the heritage-style look is to add a modern twist. Try mixing in bold modern artworks and textiles, and combining subtle tones with brighter pops of colour. Choosing clashing and complementary hues will create a lived-in atmosphere that is ideal for a family room. In her living room (above), interior designer Sarah Brown has used Lilac Pink, a subtle buff pink shade from Edward Bulmer Natural Paint. It is the perfect backdrop for her collection of colourful furniture and quirky accessories. If you struggle to combine different colours and patterns, it is a good idea to gather paint samples, fabric swatches and inspirational images and put them together to create a workable design concept. I tend to go by instinct, but I do find that choosing a wall colour early on in the process will help bring everything together. n
READER OFFER Heritage Style by Selina Lake, published by Ryland Peters & Small (£25) Photography by Rachel Whiting © Ryland Peters & Small Readers can buy a copy for the special price of £20 (RRP £25). To order, go to rylandpeters.com and use code ENGLISHHERITAGE at checkout. Offer valid until 30 April 2022. *Offer valid from 15 March 2022. Free UK P&P.
ABOVE Interior designer Sarah Brown has achieved a friendly look that is modern yet traditional – ideal for a family home. OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM RIGHT This generous hallway belonging to Jessie Cutts and Ivo Vos boasts space for an antique country bench with woven rush seats. OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP RIGHT Old armchairs and sofas with good shape can be kept as they are or covered in new fabrics to refresh their appearance. LEFT This Georgian living space is layered with silk and linen textiles. The Rochester Instant Table from The Dormy House, here dressed with a fringed cloth, is a nod back to a 1980s trend; it has been in production since 1983.
THE ENGLISH HOME 109
BEDSTEADS
Antique Bed Specialists
In Brass, Iron, Wood & Upholstered Wood
Photo by kind permission of Jane Churchill Interiors
Large stock of beds in all styles and sizes. Handmade mattresses and bases. Restoration and widening service available.
All items on website in stock and available for delivery Online and telephone sales available and showroom by appointment during Covid19 restrictions
Chelvey Court Barn, Backwell BS48 4AA • 01275 464 114 enquiries@bedsteads-uk.co.uk www.bedsteads-uk.co.uk
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QUINTESSENTIALLY
FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVE IMAGE COCO & WOLF’S ‘ALICE IN HER WONDERLAND ‘ STYLED BY EMILY RICKARD AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY EMMA GUSCOTT
Inspiration for seasonal pastimes and making the most of life at home starts here
FLORAL CELEBRATIONS
This year Easter falls a month into spring on 17 April, and as seasonal flowers reach a colourful crescendo – with daffodils nodding in borders, bluebells carpeting woods and primroses peeping from verges – could there be a more fitting time to celebrate chintz? Layering a jolly mixture of small-scale, vibrant fabrics provides an informal setting for an al fresco treat that even the smallest family members will enjoy. Look to Party Pieces and Meri Meri for themed props, and Cutter & Squidge and Fortnum & Mason for delectable high-tea deliveries to complete the scene. Table linen, cushions and pillowcases exclusively available from Coco & Wolf
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Matthew Fort FROM PATCH TO PLATE
A
h, that first, full balmy note of spring. A light breath of warm wind. Violets in the hedgerows. Blossom on the pear tree. Green shoots shooting up. A quickening of the pulse. A sudden surge of cheery optimism. ‘Whan that Aprill with his showers soote the droghte of March hath perced to the roote’ as the genial Geoffrey Chaucer put it back in fourteenth century, and I’m not sure much has changed since. Of course, this is a busy time in the vegetable patch. I begin to patrol it with increasing energy and anxiety. The earth should be warming up for the long run through spring to summer. I have taken the plunge with my chitted potatoes (Sharp’s Express; Ratte). They’re in the earth already. Courgettes (Romanesco; Trombetta d’Albenga) and cucumbers (Iznik; Petit Vert de Paris), and tomatoes (I’ll name them on a later column) are all nestling in their pots indoors waiting for the right moment to be transplanted. There are plenty of gardeners who sow their early peas and broad beans in the autumn, let them produce some shoots and then leave them in the ground during the winter months so they can flourish as the ground warms up and produce an early crop. I’m not one of them. So I’m still debating if I dare to
sow these inestimable legumes outdoors just yet. There is always a risk of a late, unseasonal frost that may nip tender shoots in the bud. You just never know. This gardening business is a matter of subtle judgement. I am delighted to report that sorrel and rhubarb, those early harbingers of the harvests to come, are already showing vigorous growth, but, if I’m honest, it is the cheery radish that I look to for reassurance and renewal. Rhubarb and sorrel are perennials. They come back in the same way and the same place each year, but radishes, well, they are the first seeds I sow, and the appearance of their frilly green leaves reassures me that other vegetables are on their way. Radishes are jolly vegetables in every way – those plump bodies, rouged around the edges like the chubby cheeks of a cheery child, that refreshing crunch as you bite down, that distinctive, lively peppery heat – and they are much more versatile than you might think. You can serve them with just salt or neatly tipped with salted butter. You can slice them lengthways and strew them over salads or, if you can pick enough, use them to make a salad all on their own. You can quarter them to add to soups and stews. You can pickle them to eat in deep mid-winter when you want to
BEEF SKIRT WITH RADISH SALAD Skirt is that muscle of the cow that runs over the ribs. Actually, there are two of them; one inside the ribs and one outside. They do a lot of work. Consequently they need a bit of chewing, but are very rewarding to the tastebuds. You can tenderise them by whacking them with tenderising mallet or a rolling pin, or through marinading them. I happily chew.
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Serves 4
INGREDIENTS (STEAK) 800g beef skirt Olive oil Salt and pepper
be reminded of the joys of spring. I was reminded of the radish’s many virtues the other day when an old friend, near neighbour, and constant competitor in the veg growing stakes, and his wife came for supper. I’d invited them, simply so I could impress them with my early harvest. Hah! I should’ve known better. The fellow arrived with his own cluster of radishes, all washed and neatly tied in a bunch with string. His were larger than mine, redder than mine, prizewinners every one, but – and I almost hate to write this – they lacked oomph. Fine on the eye, with a most agreeable crunch, but the point of a radish is the peppery zip, isn’t it? Without the pepper crunch, they might just as well be nature’s own polystyrene. Mine, a mixture of mixtures, might not have had the visual appeal of his, but they certainly had the edge when it came to heat and flavour. I don’t care about visual perfection. I want flavour to savour. Of course, I was far too polite than to make this point to my friend. I’ll take my revenge when it comes to carrots later in the year. He’s no good at carrots. About Matthew An award-winning food writer and critic, Matthew was Food & Drink Editor of The Guardian for 15 years and a judge on BBC TV’s Great British Menu. He is also the author of four books on food and travel.
METHOD • The steak should be at room temperature. Heat a griddle pan until really, really hot. Of course, use a grill if you do not have a griddle pan at hand. • Wipe a little oil over the steak and bang it on the griddle (or under the grill). Cook for 2–3 minutes. Turn. Cook for 2–3 minutes. • Put it into a warm oven and let it relax and unwind for 10 minutes or so. It should be nicely brown and marked where it has rested on the ridges of the griddle, and pink when you cut into it.
PORTRAIT GRANT SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHS (RADISHES) © STOCKFOOD / LILLA JANKOWSKA; (STEAK) © SHUTTERSTOCK / HLPHOTO
In praise of the radish – a small but refreshingly fiery jewel in the spring vegetable patch that packs a punch on the plate
FOOD
INGREDIENTS (SALAD) 30 peppery radishes 1 horseradish root 1 bunch parsley 1 tbsp verjuice (or white wine vinegar) Juice of ½ lemon Pinch of sugar 2 dsp vegetable oil 2 dsp olive oil Salt and pepper
METHOD • Cut the radishes into small matchsticks. Put in a bowl. Chop the parsley finely and mix in with the radish matchsticks. Season with salt and pepper. • Mix the verjuice, lemon juice and sugar in a bowl and whisk until the sugar has dissolved. • Whisk in the oils and pour over the radishes. Mix thoroughly using hands. • Share out salad between four plates and grate a good dusting of horseradish root over each. ■
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114 THE ENGLISH HOME
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ENTERTAINING
SET THE SCENE FOR:
Easter
Decorate the table for a springtime celebration with pretty pastels, sweet-scented flowers and a scattering of seasonal motifs
P
repare to welcome friends and family for an Easter celebration by dressing the home with seasonal decorations and pretty spring hues. Whether dining inside or al fresco – should the weather be warm enough – Easter is a wonderful excuse to style the dining table with joyous colour. Make the most of scented spring flowers in shades of sugary pink, sunshine yellow, bold indigo blue and vibrant, zesty green. Branches of pussy willow, catkin or even long stems of blossom can make an eye-catching centrepiece full of height, and spring bulbs such as crocus, hyacinth, paper white narcissus and daffodils displayed in eye-catching planters, ceramic tureens, or terracotta pots will release an delightful scent. Be inspired by nature’s hues and traditional or favourite motifs such as rabbits, eggs and chicks when decorating the table. Choose decorations, linens and serveware to add colour and interest to an all white scheme and create a tablescape that will appeal to all.
White porcelain tableware, £149 for 12-piece set; White porcelain cake stand, £57; Scalloped napkins, £49 for four; Linen napkin rings, £58 for four; Sparkle high ball glasses, £69 for six; Sparkle wine glasses, £79 for six; Apothecary clear glass vase, from £40; Pink-and-white striped planter, £100 for two, all Sophie Conran
FOR WHERE TO BUY SEE ADDRESS BOOK
THE ENGLISH HOME 115
BE MY GUEST Ensure guests feel welcome with charming Easter place settings finished with decorative details such as eggs adorned with hand-painted seasonal motifs or each person’s name. For an extra-special touch, and to point guests to their seats, tie a velvet ribbon embroidered with guests’ initials or names around a napkin to create rabbit ears. Simply fold a napkin diagonally in half, then roll up and wrap around a decorated egg and secure in place with a bow.
BRANCHING OUT Use branches of seasonal foliage to make a tree-style centrepiece from which to hang Easter decorations. Catkins, pussywillow or blossom can be displayed in a zinc flower bucket, a large glass vase or a vintage pickling jar. Alternatively, suspend a long branch from the ceiling to run the length of the table and attach stems of real or faux flowers or foliage to it. Decorate with fairy lights, handpainted eggs or other Easter decorations attached by lengths of pastel-coloured ribbon.
MIX & MATCH Co-ordinating tableware and linen decorated with seasonal motifs will bring spring cheeriness in an instant and provide an element of fun to an otherwise simple styled table. Matching tablecloths, napkins, tablerunners and ceramics depicting illustrations of rabbits, chickens or hens offer up some whimsical charm and are also hugely versatile. Source table linens to protect and decorate the table with and jugs for serving up sauces and creams. ABOVE Velvet bow, monogrammed or personalised with guest’s name, from £12, The Embroidered Napkin Company
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ABOVE Pastel Easter Egg garland, £29.99; Warm white battery micro lights, £6.99; Pastel Egg Easter decorations, £16.99 for six, all Lights4Fun BELOW Hare table runner, £27.50; Hare napkins, £16.50 for four; Hare jugs, from £17.50; Bunny & Seed Stone mug, £12.50, all Sophie Allport
ENTERTAINING
PASTEL PERFECT Pastel shades from blush pink to soft apricot create an appealing scene when layered together, providing a gentle, welcome splash of colour for the new season. Setting the table with ombré-dyed napkins and a co-ordinating tablecloth provides subtle variations in intensity of colour and a striking visual effect. Add a floral arrangement with textural flowers such as frilled ranunculus, ruffled parrot tulips, delicate anemones and the lacy heads of dill flower placed in a small glass jar or a flower frog hidden inside a bowl.
Lavender linen tablecloth, £96; Hand-dyed blush ombré linen napkin, £14; Porcelain tableware, from £44; Florentine handmade glass carafe, £32; Florentine handmade glass, £10; Terrazzo trivets, £11.50; Terrazzo candle holders, £14; Recycled Oyster Shell candle, £14, all Sorbet Living THE ENGLISH HOME 117
Pretty special
Serve seasonal treats using springtime-inspired tableware and accessories Chintz Bunny china, Pink, from £8 for a cereal bowl, Royal Stafford Provence 24-piece cutlery set in Ivory, £305, Sophie Conran
EGG WHITE
Brushed gold drinks tray, £20.99, Von Haus
Gabriella Murano tumblers in Pink and Pistachio, £40 each, Rebecca Udall Adam Lippes Rosarie tea cup and saucer, £50, Oka
White china is a failsafe option for all sorts of occasions. Its simple, pared-back aesthetic provides the perfect surface for serving up elegant starters, luxurious roasts and tempting desserts and allows scope for creative tablescaping alongside colourful linens, decorative serveware and pretty placesetting ideas. For Easter why not introduce fragile elements of nature to echo the delicate effect of a white glaze and textural detail. Make tiny nests out of raffia or straw and fill with a white duck egg or a seasonal pastel blue Cotswold Legbar with each guest’s name written on, accompanied with a feather or sweet-scented flower
BEST BUD Certain stems of delicate spring flowers need a smaller vessel in which to sit and bud vases are ideal. Use an assortment of designs in vibrant jewel colours scattered along the length of the table or grouped on a cake stand and fill with crocuses, freesias, primroses, fritillaries and miniature narcissus.
Venezia 66-piece dinner set, £1,950, Micucci Interiors
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ABOVE Croxton dinner plate, £96 for six; Croxton side plate, £60 for six, Handsworth 24-piece cutlery set, £90, all Neptune BELOW Ink bottle vases, from £9.95 each, Sarah Raven
ENTERTAINING BE BOLD Seasonal green vegetables can be a surprising inspiration for decorating the dining table, and a great way of adding more robust shades of spring colour as a welcome alternative to soft blossom pink and daffodil yellow. Allotment favourites such as asparagus, globe artichokes and stalks of rhubarb are charming displayed in jugs dotted along the table, and are a table styling accompaniment to earthy spring bulbs such as deep indigo blue hyacinth and paper white narcissus. Source tablecloths, ceramics and accessories in bold, graphic flowerhead designs and in vibrant shades of blue and green for a striking and uplifting scene. n
FEATURE SARAH EMSLIE PHOTOGRAPHS P116 (LIGHTS4FUN) © OLIVER PERROTT. P118 (SARAH RAVEN) © JONATHAN BUCKLEY. P119 (PENNY MORRISON) © MARK WEEKS; (DAYLESFORD) © NEIL WATSON
Simla tablecloth in Blue and Green, £224.40; Green Summer Flower ceramic plates: small, £24.19, large, £66; Natural Wicker table mat, £15.84; Simla border napkins, £66 for a set of four, all Penny Morrison
Oddington Green Delicious platter, £65, Daylesford Naturally dyed assorted linen placemats, £56 for four, Ved Cooks Rabbit & Cabbage set of four napkins, £45, Thornback & Peel
Bordhalo Pinheiro Cabbage Tureen, £108, Micucci Interiors
White Basket-Weave baking dish, £20, Daylesford
Early Bird breakfast plates in Pink and Blue, £12.95 each, Pip Studio
THE ENGLISH HOME 119
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GARDENING
BRIGHT &
Beautiful Discover the joyous charm and endless array of tulips to bring borders and pots to life
P
erhaps the most uplifting of all garden flowers, tulips dazzle with their endless shapes, spectrum of colour and easy-going nature. Requiring very little attention, they reward tenfold every spring with a spectacular display that is guaranteed to lift mood and soul and inject energy and vibrancy into every inch of outside space. Celebrated by designers, plant specialists, garden lovers and leading florists alike these flowering bulbs are highly prized for their organic twisting forms and clarity of colour. “We have been planting tulips for over three decades, each year more vibrant than the last,” says Marylyn Abbott, a renowned Australian garden designer based at West Green House Gardens in Hampshire. “Tulips rescue us from the doldrums and signify the end of a bleak, grey winter with their satin sheen and vibrant colour.”
HIGHLY PRIZED Having been introduced to Europe towards the end of the 1590s from the Ottoman Empire, tulips quickly captured the attention of everyone from canny merchants and botanists to wealthy estate owners looking for the latest curiosity to demonstrate their status, fortune, and impress their peers. Admired largely for the colour intensity of their petals as well as their size and exotic character, tulips were unlike any other flower found in Europe at the time. They soon became a luxury item, with records of single tulip LEFT An array of vibrant and richly coloured tulips in the walled Kitchen Garden at Hampton Court Castle in Herefordshire. THE ENGLISH HOME 121
Walmer Castle and Gardens in Kent has a breathtaking display of tulips in pots and in borders throughout April and May.
‘The breeding of tulips for cut flowers has led to an ever-widening selection of colours, colour mixes and flower shapes’ ABOVE LEFT Support taller tulip varieties. Peony Plant Support, from £57, Harrod Horticultural ABOVE MIDDLE Also known as ‘Joker’s Hat’, this new addition to the tulip family peaks in mid to late spring. Tulip ‘Go Go Red’, £5.90 for five, Farmer Gracy ABOVE RIGHT The Lime Walk at Sissinghurst in Kent was designed and planted by Harold Nicolson to reach its peak during spring.
bulbs being exchanged for acres of land. Demand dwindled gradually as it became clear these flowering bulbs could thrive happily in the cool, moist Northern European climate.
INFINITE VARIETY Part of the magnetic appeal of tulips lies in the sheer breadth of colours and flower shapes available. With varieties to suit every personal style and preference, they provide endless inspiration and creative opportunities. Chris Ireland-Jones of Avon Bulbs says: “Some love simple flowers, but the breeding of tulips for cut flowers, in particular, has led to an everwidening selection of colours, colour mixes and flower shapes. One can now choose between ruffled petalled (or ‘parrot tulips’), where the edges of the petals are frilled as though cut with pinking scissors; lily flowered, which have elegantly longer and flared petals
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forming a vase-like shape; and the traditional singleand double-petalled forms.” Adding a burst of brilliant colour, tulips are a valuable tool for many leading garden designers. Often used for making striking contrasts in a planted bed or container, their impact is boosted by their large and simple flower shapes. From the deepest burgundy of ‘Queen of Night’ through to the clear, crisp tones of pink Tulip ‘Carola’ and pure white ‘Catherina’, the striking blooms provide bursts of colour against green foliage. Many varieties have two or even tri-colour striped petals and some, including many historic tulips, have intriguing white-streaked markings. Polly Nicholson, artisan florist and owner of Bayntun Flowers, is passionate about tulips. “Historic tulips have a colour saturation rarely seen in more modern cultivars,” she says. “Tulipa ‘Klopstock’, first registered in 1863, is a rich
GARDENING
Six easy-to-grow varieties
A few favourites with suggestions for pairings
TULIP ‘REMS FAVOURITE’
bishop’s purple, and when it occasionally ‘breaks’ into stripes, the underlying white colour seems to shatter across the petals.” This striking ‘flaming’ effect, where the main colour of a tulip’s petals are streaked with a second colour, stirred up plenty of intrigue in seventeenth-century Holland, and was caused by bulbs infected with ‘tulip-breaking virus’. Today’s tulips that feature this ‘broken’ petal pattern are the result of specialist breeding rather than viral infection. Tulip bulbs were so highly prized in Holland during the 1630s that individual bulbs were changing hands for values greater than a skilled worker’s yearly income, and, in some cases, individual properties. This period spanning from 1634–1637 is often referred to as ‘Tulipmania’.
SEEKING INSPIRATION Many revered English gardens boast strong historical ties with tulips and are worth exploring for colour palette ideas and the fascinating varieties, often with their own intriguing back story. Dyrham Park, near Bath, was built in the seventeenth century by William
TULIP ‘RED SHINE’
Works well with: Tulip ‘Negrita’ (snub-nosed, deep purple); Tulip ‘Purple Doll’ (pointed, ruffled petals)
Works well with: Tulip ‘Ballerina’ (two-tone tangerine, lily-flowering); Tulip ‘West Point’ (yellow, lily-flowering)
TULIP ‘BLACK PARROT’
TULIP ‘PINK IMPRESSION’
Works well with: Tulip ‘Showcase’ (violet purple, double, early); Tulip ‘Purple Dream’ (purple with yellow base, lily-flowering)
Works well with: Tulip ‘Doll’s Minuet’ (pink-red viridiflora); Tulip ‘Florosa’ (pink, cream, green viridiflora); Tulip ‘Don Quichotte’ (pink, triumph)
TULIP ‘MOUNT TACOMA’
TULIP ‘FABIO’
Works well with: Tulip ‘Angelique’ (soft pink, double, late, peony-flowered; Tulip ‘Black Hero’ (deep burgundy, double, late)
Works well with: Tulip ‘Crystal Star’ (bright yellow glossy fringed petals, black base); Tulip ‘Red Wing’ (deep, glowing red fringed petals, late)
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ABOVE The dark purple blooms of ‘Queen of the Night’. Late to flower, they sit beautifully in this design by Hendy Curzon Gardens. TOP RIGHT Often compared to peonies, double tulips have large, blowsy blooms that often last into early summer. ABOVE RIGHT Favourite tulips are depicted in Ottomanstyle on this 45th anniversary pot. Majestic Tulip Pot, from £69.50, Whichford Pottery
Blathwayt, who was based in The Hague when he created the garden and was therefore heavily inspired by the Dutch gardens of the era. As a result, formal tulip displays featuring thousands of bulbs and four 104-metre-long borders play a significant role in the Dyrham Park garden to this day. Other gardens to visit for tulip inspiration include Brodsworth Hall and Gardens in South Yorkshire, which has a magnificent collection of tulips dating from the nineteenth century and earlier, and the formal Victorian flower garden at Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire, with over 7,000 tulips in varieties that originated in the seventeenth century. There are a handful of dedicated tulip nurseries and specialist growers: H W Hyde & Son was founded in Sussex in 1926 and the founder’s grandson Richard Hyde says: “No garden is complete without tulips. Some people like exotic-looking parrots, others prefer the traditional single types. Very few plants can match
124 THE ENGLISH HOME
them for the sheer diversity of flowers. Picking favourites is not easy; we tend to judge them for garden performance, not just looks. ‘Spryng Break’ has huge flowers, very strong stems and the bulbs tend to come back every year, whilst ‘Light and Dreamy’ is a tall tulip which flowers for weeks and stands straight.”
GROWING MATTERS Tulips are best planted from October until early December, after the first frosts. Easy to grow, they flower reliably the first year but can dwindle in subsequent years if not planted deep enough. Look for plump, firm bulbs and plant them in a sunny or partially shady spot. Ensure the soil is free draining, add a little grit if needed, and plant individually or in trenches at a depth of at least 8cm. As with most flowering bulbs, these beautiful blooms thrive in containers. Whichford Pottery founder Jim Keeling says: “A major advantage of
GARDENING
‘I adore every stage of a tulip’s life, even the butterfly moment before they gently disintegrate’ growing bulbs in pots is the ability it gives you to move them around – bringing them to a prominent position as they peak and moving them away when they start to go brown and flop. Plant them in pots from early autumn, using a good peat-free multi-purpose compost. We always cram in as many bulbs as possible and often layer them with other spring bulbs, like narcissi and crocus.” Known as a ‘bulb lasagne’ this approach ensures one container provides a season of interest.
HARMONIOUS HUES Passionate about growing flowers for cutting, plantswoman and author Sarah Raven has dedicated many years to sourcing and trialling tulips. “A favourite
colour collection of mine is based on the idea of a ABOVE Jewels of the cutting garden, tulips blood orange,” she says. “The orange coming from come in a dazzling Tulip ‘Arjuna’ and the marvellous Tulip ‘Request’, array of flower which is softly scented of freesia. Then I add a pool of shapes, colours and contrast from a densely coloured crimson tulip such as sizes. Stepover apple ‘Havran’ or one called ‘Sarah Raven’ that a Dutch trees and a pair of delicate trellis arches friend developed last year, knowing that I would love add structure to this it. I’d seen the first two growing close together in a flower patch. friend’s garden last spring, and thought they worked Elegance round well, then added the third to accentuate the contrast. garden arches, £314 The trio make a beautiful mix growing at the front of each, Agriframes a sunny border or pot.” Tulips have an unbeatable charm throughout their flowering life, from the first glimpse of colour through THE ENGLISH HOME 125
LEFT Rich claret Tulip ‘Palmyra’ is perfect for pots and exposed positions, flowers in April and 30cm high. Tulip ‘Palmyra’, £6.99 for 12 bulbs, Cottage Garden Seeds ABOVE This mix of fringed mauve Tulip ‘Cummins’ and deep plum Tulip ‘Gorilla’ is
to their softly fading and falling petals. “I adore every stage of a tulip’s life, even the butterfly moment before they gently disintegrate,” says flower grower and florist Claire Sutton of Fig and Fern Flowers in Lincolnshire. When it comes to picking tulips to display indoors, Jo Munson of specialist growers Smith & Munson says: “Tulips are the only cut flower to keep on growing in the vase. They look fabulous when they do their own thing, bending and twisting towards the light. Always cut flowers from your garden early in the morning diagonally with a sharp knife or a pair of Japanese flower scissors for a nice clean cut. This increases the stem’s surface area and allows for more water uptake. Always use a clean vase and remove any leaves below the water line as bacteria shortens the vase life.” Flowering in April and short in stature at just 30cm high, rich claret Tulip ‘Palmyra’ is perfect for pots and exposed positions and is a favourite of Cel Robertson, owner of Forever Green Flower Company, who says: “For the longest vase life, cut these stems as the colour is flushing across the outer petals and the top of the flower bud is just beginning to open.” n
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distinctly dramatic. Tulip ‘Black Cherry Frost’ mix, £9.99 for 16 bulbs, Thompson & Morgan BELOW In this arrangement by Fig and Fern Flowers Tulip ‘Brown Sugar’ is a brilliant bedfellow to ‘La Belle Epoque’ and ‘Rems Favourite’.
FEATURE JILL MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHS P120 © ALEX RAMSAY / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO. P122 © ENGLISH HERITAGE; © HARROD HORTICULTURAL; © FARMER GRACY. P123 © NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/ANDREW BUTLER; © IBULB. P124 © HC GARDENS 5; © IBULB; © WHICHFORD POTTERY. P125 © ZINNIA DESIGN. P126 © FOREVER GREEN FLOWER COMPANY; © THOMPSON & MORGAN; © FIG AND FERN FLOWERS.
GARDENING
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for East Yorkshire town house renovation
Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co.
Handmade in Norfolk | Guaranteed to last a lifetime A first and second generation family company. All our beds are lovingly hand crafted to order, on the Sandringham Estate and come with a guarantee to last a lifetime.
Marble fire surrounds (pictured). Georgian to early Victorian. 1750 to 1850-ish. White or coloured. Campaign chest by Ross of Dublin, Gregory Kane etc. Other branded campaign items by Morgan & Sanders, Edward Argles, J Allen and many others. Georgian labelled travelling trunks, wig boxes etc. Library chairs by G Minter, R Daws, J Alderman (pictured), Foot’s Patent etc. Chamber horse exercise chair. Labelled/ stamped Georgian to early Victorian furniture in general. Small tables, bookcases etc. W Priest, Robert James of Bristol, James Winter, Samuel Pratt and more. High quality Georgian and Regency bookcases, even unsigned. . 18th and early 19th century interesting architectural features eg over door pediments, rectangular fan light, unusual doors and door knobs, brass rim locks. Georgian reclaimed floor boards x 100m2.
01485 542516
view our full range at
www.wroughtironandbrassbed.co.uk
Interior lanterns. Brass Regency and later Victorian glass bell jar type. High quality repro lanterns, eg Jamb. Early and interesting lighting; wall or table mounted Regency column lamps; gas or oil. Mermaids (pictured) Decorative early light switches.
Tel: 07958 333442 or email: vintagejewellery@yahoo.co.uk
For more information visit us at www.theenglishhome.co.uk When calling the UK from North America, dial the country code ‘011 44’ 13/07/2021 and drop 14:02 the first ‘0’ in the UK phone number
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MISCELLANEOUS
LIGHTING
FURNITURE
SAMARKAND DESIGN
THE HANDMADE SOFA COMPANY All of our furniture is hand built to order in the UK using the finest quality fabrics and leathers. Choose from an extensive range of standard contemporary and traditional models, including different Chesterfield styles and chaise longues. All models can be made-to-measure to suit individual requirements using one of the UK’s widest choice of leather and fabric. All standard furniture is normally delivered to UK mainland within 6-8 weeks from order time.
SAMARKAND DESIGN sources vintage textiles from around the worldtocreatebeautiful anddistinctivehomeaccessories. Uniquelampshadescraftedfromexquisitevintagesilksarees, hand block-printed voiles and shibori dyed silk. Call 07973 922943 or visit www.samarkanddesign.com to see full range
TEL: 01258 841414
www.handmadesofacompany.co.uk The Handmade Sofa Company, Unit 4, Manor Farm Business Centre, Gussage St Michael, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5HT.
WOODEN WINDOWS
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ISSUES FOR £
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For more information visit us at www.theenglishhome.co.uk When calling the UK from North America, more information us at www.theenglishhome.co.uk dial the country code ‘011 44’ andFor drop the first ‘0’ in thevisit UK phone number
dial the country code ‘011 44’ and drop the fir
ONE FINAL THING… This bank holiday, take time to breathe in the British countryside
E
FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVE PHOTOGRAPH © UNIQUE HOMESTAYS (UNIQUEHOMESTAYS.COM +44 (0) 1637 881183)
njoy a tranquil Easter weekend (15–18 April) with a feast for the senses. Whether escaping to a holiday bolthole such as a barn or cottage tucked away in the English countryside or simply taking a day trip, seek out uninterrupted views. Partake in the traditional British pastime of elevenses. Serve a light snack befitting the bank holiday mood (Daylesford offers artisan bread and cake delivery at daylesford.com), absorb the scene with binoculars (see shop.nationaltrust.org.uk) and finish the morning reading a good book outdoors. Wishbone Barn, Malvern Hills, Unique Homestays
130 THE ENGLISH HOME
