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The home of

MODERN COUNTRY Interiors & inspiration 8 13 18 58

118 TO FIND ALL STOCKISTS IN THIS ISSUE, TURN TO PAGE 136

•

ON THE COVER

O MAKE A HOUSE A HOME A log burner for a patio O SUNSHINE STATE OF MIND! Let summer linger longer with designs in lush patterns and sun-drenched shades

KITCHEN LINENS Towels, oven gloves and aprons with bright and cheery motifs LET’S TALK MONOCHROME Black, white and grey bring timeless sophistication to country kitchens

THE COUNTRY DECORATOR Co-ordinating tableware and linens create place settings for relaxed summer entertaining

Country homes

HOME NOTES

SEPTEMBER The things we can’t live without

92 98 125

O 10 DREAMY MASTER BEDROOMS Restful schemes to inspire and revive O MODERN COUNTRY CLASSICS Larders and pantry units

ROOM ELEMENTS Carpets for country homes HOME TECH Air purifiers COUNTRY KITCHEN FOCUS A new space for the whole family to gather in and enjoy

NORTH YORKSHIRE FARM CONVERSION A former granary becomes a peaceful place to make a fresh start O

O SURREY COTTAGE Collected vintage treasures enhance every room in this idyllic renovated family home O OXFORDSHIRE VILLAGE HOUSE Two period cottages were combined to create an open-plan and surprisingly modern interior O SUSSEX COACH HOUSE The relaxed and welcoming feel of this Victorian home has evolved naturally over time

PLUS GET-THE-LOOK IDEAS FOR EVERY HOME

130 Country Homes & Interiors

Gardens

14 102

GARDEN NOTES BORDER LINES A colourful garden in Herefordshire blends beautifully with its pastoral surroundings O

Just for you 19

O VISIT THE WEALD OF KENT COUNTRY CRAFT SHOW Enjoy

a day out and visit the Country Homes & Interiors pop-up shop

22 102

Seasonal food 15 118

FOOD NOTES O FRUITY AND FLOWERY CAKES AND TARTS Cakes and puddings with the flavours of summer

Lifestyle 16 72 TO FIND ALL STOCKISTS IN THIS ISSUE, TURN TO PAGE 136

•

ON THE COVER

100

WORD OF MOUTH The newly restored Temperate House at Kew Gardens

111

MAKE LIFE LOVELY Happy thoughts and ideas for fashion, eco, wellbeing and more

115

130

146

Country Homes & Interiors

OUR FAVOURITE SHOP Discover vintage gems at Home Barn in Little Marlow O MY KIND OF COUNTRY Bryony Hancock offers secret hideaways in Dartmoor

SUBSCRIBE TO COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS O SAVE 15% AT WALLS AND FLOORS Gorgeous tiles

for bathrooms, kitchens, hallways and more

116

TRAVEL OFFER Discover Champagne country on this sparkling guided getaway

Regulars 136

SHOPPING DIRECTORY All the contact details and websites featured in this issue

SUBSCRIBE T O D AY

OUT & ABOUT Stay at the historic Castle Inn for a weekend in Dorset MY COUNTRY BUSINESS Helen Brent-Smith makes cider and juice from heritage fruits MY FAVOURITE VIEW Designer Kelly Hoppen loves Henry Moore’s sculpture, The Arch, in Kensington Gardens

Subscribe to Country Homes & Interiors today from £32.99 for 12 months (saving 43%). See page 56 for details.

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Share your

COUNTRY LIFE WITH US Tag us in your photos on Instagram @countryhomesmag #countrystyle

& INTERIORS 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP Telephone 020 3148 5000 Email countryhomes@ti-media.com EDITOR Rhoda Parry CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emma Williams 020 3148 7184 HOUSES EDITOR Vivienne Ayers 020 3148 7194 SHOPPING EDITOR Holly Phillips 020 3148 7195 NEWS AND FEATURES EDITOR Thea Babington-Stitt 020 3148 7458 CONTENT EDITOR Tara King 020 3148 7196 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Sara Bird (Style) EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Sally Dominic 020 3148 7154 CHIEF SUB EDITOR Anne Esden 020 3148 7188 HEAD OF SUBS OPERATIONS Maxine Clarke 020 3148 7136 SENIOR SUB EDITORS Marian McNamara, Fiona Mace HEAD OF ART OPERATIONS Alison Walter 020 3148 7113 ART EDITOR Meredith Davies 020 3148 7186 EDITORIAL PRODUCTION MANAGER Nicola Tillman 020 3148 7891 DEPUTY EDITORIAL PRODUCTION DESIGNER Clare Willetts 020 3148 7892 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Jane Akers 020 3148 7313

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EDITORIAL COMPLAINTS We work hard to achieve the highest standards of editorial content, and we are committed to complying with the Editors’ Code of Practice (https://www.ipso.co.uk/ editors-code-of-practice) as enforced by IPSO (Independent Press Standards Organisation). If you have a complaint about our editorial content, you can email us at complaints@ti-media.com or write to Complaints Manager, TI Media Limited Legal Department, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP. Please provide details of the material you are complaining about and explain your complaint by reference to the Editors’ Code. We will endeavour to acknowledge your complaint within 5 working days and we aim to correct substantial errors as soon as possible.

TI Media Limited, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP, 020 3148 5000. Website: ti-media.com. ©TI MEDIA LIMITED 2018. Distributed by Marketforce (UK) Ltd, 5 Churchill Place, London E14 5HU, 020 3787 9001. Country Homes & Interiors, ISSN 0951-3019, is published monthly, 12 times a year. Manuscripts and illustrations are welcome but on the understanding that we cannot be liable for their safe custody or return. We are sorry that manuscripts and illustrations cannot be returned, nor letters answered or acknowledged unless sent with a stamped addressed envelope. Published monthly by TI Media Limited. Colour origination by Rhapsody. Printed in the UK by the Wyndeham Group. Country Homes & Interiors is sold subject to the following conditions, namely that it shall not, without the written consent of the publishers first given, be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise disposed of by way of trade at more than the recommended selling price shown on the cover (selling price in Eire includes VAT) and that it shall not be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any unauthorised cover by way of trade or affixed to or as part of any publication or advertising literary or pictorial matter whatsoever. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS MAGAZINE One-year full subscription rate (12 issues), including postage and packaging: UK £58.40; Europe €148.40; USA $148.40; Rest of world £175.60. For subscription enquiries from the UK, please call 0330 333 1113; from overseas, please call +44 (0)330 333 1113; or email help@magazinesdirect.com.

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Country Homes & Interiors

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

(BACKGROUND) FABRIC, FLORAL POSY LIGHT, £66M, ABIGAIL BURY

Things I’ve seen, done and loved this month ‘By all these lovely tokens September days are here, With summer’s best of weather, And autumn’s best of cheer.’ I have always loved this quote from Helen Hunt Jackson and thus this issue we are in a sunshine state of mind. Inspired by the long, balmy days we’ve been enjoying, you’ll find all the things I know you love to do in your country homes and gardens. Slow summer style was top of the agenda when it came to planning our seasonal looks on page 58. Featuring the latest lush patterns of ripe fruits and full blooms, these ideas are all about how to linger longer over simple pleasures such as eating and enjoying the outdoors. Making way for the harvest is a favourite dilemma right now. How does one make use of all that fruit? See our cake and tart recipes on page 118. How to store jams, pickles and preserves? Take your pick from the loveliest larders (page 90). Plus we visit Day’s Cottage Farm in Gloucestershire to hear how Helen Brent-Smith turned her glut of orchard apples into a highly successful business making and selling juice and cider (page 130).

R hoda x

PS... This is my last issue as Editor of Country Homes & Interiors. It’s been a great pleasure and privilege to put all my love of country life into this best of home brands!

Country Homes & Interiors

Spreading cheer and delight with a carnival of blooming colour! Rainbow Dots 1½ pint jug, £34.95, Emma Bridgewater.

Things we can’t live without

SEPTEMBER

Country Homes & Interiors

C O U N T R Y D AY S

A waist-nipping summer wardrobe staple featuring gingham and perky petals. Alisandra shirt dress, col Navy Wallﬂower Gingham, £79.95, Joules.

3 4 1 Oodles of noodles served in light-bouncing stoneware. Merci bowl, H9.5xDia15.5cm, col White, £24.50, Abode Living. 2 Making a boho statement with rows of rustic beading. Luna ceiling lamp, H61.5xDia52cm, £395, Lombok. 3 An eye-catching accent with vintage appeal. Ike vase, Dia22cm, £45, Perch & Parrow. 4 An instant update with a one-of-a-kind throw. Vintage kantha quilt, 210x151cm, £105, Yonder Living.

* A curated, potted ‘wilderness’. Burnell tiered plant stand, H75xW73xD70cm, £112, Rowen & Wren.

5 6

8 7 5 Evoking the warmth of tribal lands. Corolla mirror, Dia46cm, £88, Caravane. 6 Taking notes with a lovely handbag essential. A5 everyday notebook, 14.8x21cm, col Pink Quaility, £5, Harris and Hall. 7 The perfect Portuguese-made companion for that all-important ﬁrst morning cuppa! Magda stoneware mug, H12cm, col Pastel Lilac, £8, Habitat. 8 Lighting the way with warm antique brass and mercury-effect glass. Ally lantern, H34xW18xD18cm, £75, Lene Bjerre at Sweetpea & Willow.

Country Homes & Interiors

Celebrating Indian summer alfresco parties in quirky, stylish comfort. Coral deckchair, £75; Woodland ﬁre bowl, £399; large Squirrel festoon lights, £70; Macario stool, col Blue, £75; Kansa cushion, col Yellow, £55; Linen Stripe pouffe, £185, all Graham & Green.

10 9

9 Bubbles in blushing glassware. Glass jug, H9.5cm, col Pink, £39.95, Birdie Fortescue. 10 Breakfast in bed with an adorable character! Hedgehog tray, 30x40cm, col Soft Grey/Taupe, £37.50, Zed & Co. 11 Playful patterns on accent pieces. Kaleidoscope butterﬂy cushion, 45x45cm, from £25, The Curious Department. 12 A home for magazines or laundry. Bamboo basket, H38xDia60cm, £24.95, Chairworks at Notonthehighstreet.com.

* 13 14 15

16 13 Storing teatime treats in classic cuties! Caddy tins, H15x Dia10.6cm, £24 for 3, Thornback & Peel. 14 Splatter patterns on classic shapes. Lamp base and shade, H58xDia18cm, col Confetti Pink, £785, Pentreath & Hall. 15 Vintage character fused with rustic grain. Montana chest, H85xW100xD40cm, £499, Atkin & Thyme. 16 Sleeping on super-soft, breathable layers. Basic bedding bundle, col Dove Grey, from £216, Piglet. 10

Country Homes & Interiors

Leisurely lie-ins and afternoon naps in a beautifully made updated classic! Portland king-size bed, H105xW168.5xL219cm, col Grey, £399, The Cotswold Company.

C O U N T R Y D AY S

Colour of

PURPLE HAZE

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS STYLING (MOODBOARD) HOLLY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHS (MOODBOARD) DAN DUCHARS

PERK-UP FOR HIGH SUMMER WITH A PURPLE-HAZE PALETTE OF PAINTERLY SPLATTERS ON WALLPAPER AND SOFT LINENS IN SOOTHING PLAINS AND COTTAGE GARDEN-PATTERNED INSPIRATIONS

Florescence Huntington wallpaper, col Turquoise/Vert, £53.35 a roll, Casadeco. Matt paint, Snizort Seathrift; Trotternish Heather, both £24.50 for 2.5L, both Isle of Skye Paint Company. Fabrics, (from left): Oaksey linen, cols Amethyst and Heather, both £74m, both Lewis & Wood; Ella May linen, £152m, Penny Morrison; Constance, col Multi, £75m, Cabbages & Roses; Beauclerc stripe narrow aged linen, col Damson, £120m, Inchyra; Violetta, col Silver White, £36m, Laura Ashley. Turnip tea towel, col Purple, £10, Lottie Day. Wooden spoon, stylist’s own. Country Homes & Interiors

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Home notes On reflection

Heath upholstered large sofa in Harmony Andesite, £2,128; large footstool, £621, both Collins & Hayes.

Make a statement in a country bedroom with a set of distressed mirrored drawers to inject a touch of luxe. The Mirana chest of drawers, £565, from Barker & Stonehouse, is made from recycled ﬁr wood with a rustic grey wash and ﬁnished with eglomiséd mirror – one of the big trends of the year.

O U R F AV O U R I T E B E D L I N E N D E S I G N E R S

Bedfolk Relaxed in Rose bedding bundle, from £99 for a double duvet and two pillowcases, Bedfolk

Feel the comfort

FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS

Husband and wife team Nick and Jo James started Bedfolk after trying to ﬁnd comfortable, quality sheets that were easy to buy, responsibly made and didn’t cost a fortune. Here, the couple tells us more... What inspires you? We love effortless interiors, and we designed Bedfolk to ﬁt with that aesthetic. Our colour palette is very natural, and our design details are all about simplicity. It’s also so inspiring to visit our mill in Portugal where the textile knowledge is incredible. What’s so special about your bedlinen? The quality of our bedding is the foundation of Bedfolk, so we partner directly with the best makers in the world, including the mill we use in Portugal. Our sheets are made from 100 per cent

long-staple cotton, and we also refuse to use harmful chemicals or synthetics. What do you hope to achieve? Most brands highlight thread count, but it doesn’t mean much – with threads, quality matters much more than quantity. We’ve simpliﬁed the process with three styles of bedding, all in the same high-calibre cotton at the same price. What do you love about what you do? When our customers tell us that they love our bedding, it’s an amazing feeling, and makes all the hard work worthwhile. What's next? We’re focused on getting our bedding onto people’s beds so they can feel the difference. Bedfolk, bedfolk. com.

Sofa and chair specialist Collins & Hayes has launched a collection of luxurious yet laid-back furniture, perfect for the country home. Designed and handcrafted in Nottinghamshire, Collins & Hayes’ sofas and chairs include touches such as goose feather back cushions, hardwood frames and solid oak feet. The design team worked with specialist mills to produce natural fibre upholstery fabrics in a range of soft, subtle and pared-back hues. The collection can also be upholstered in The Colour Collective – cotton fabrics from Romo’s Linara range which includes a palette of 360 shades – so you’re sure to find a shade to complement your scheme.

AMAZING APP Wallpaper and paint specialists Graham & Brown has a new visualisation app, the DecoratAR, that’s ideal if you can’t imagine whether a new wallpaper will work in a room. Available free for iPhones and iPads, an Android version will be available later in the year. Country Homes & Interiors

Garden notes R E T R E AT T O T H E S H E D It’s national Roald Dahl day on 13 September so we are thinking about the wonders of the garden shed. Roald famously wrote his children’s stories from his. Sheds can be far more than a place to store your tools, they double up as an outdoor room and allow us to enjoy a quiet space in the garden, so site it in a private corner of the plot. We love the idea of a shed with a stable door, turfed green roof and a woodburner.

Q&A WITH A SHARING GARDENER

Love hardy plants Get together with other like-minded gardeners by joining your local Hardy Plant Society. We asked chairperson Jan Vaughan what to expect...

For those wanting to add sparkle to a sunny border this month, dahlias are the plants of choice. They offer powerful colour at the end of summer right up to the first frosts. Once Jack Frost has blackened the foliage, either lift and store in a frost-free place or leave in the ground and cover with a thick mulch. Buy as tubers in May or treat yourself to flowering plants now. To attract pollinating insects, opt for the single types, such as the white ‘Bishop of Dover’ or the two-toned ‘Happy Single Flame’. For outrageous glamour, we adore ‘David Howard’ with its orange flowers and dark foliage (shown here).

Does the Society have activities that I may be interested in? All members can beneﬁt from the Seed Distribution. Members collect seed from plants in their own gardens, both in the UK and overseas, and donate it. Some seed is from familiar plants, while some is from rare and hard-to-ﬁnd 14

Country Homes & Interiors

plants. The team prepares a seed list and circulates it to members. There is no charge for the seed itself, although there is a postage fee. How can I ﬁnd out what is happening in my area? There are over 40 local groups around the UK. Find your nearest on our website. How can I join? Go to hardy-plant. org.uk. Annual membership costs just £17 a year.

Just what you need now...

Fancy a terrace ﬁlled with tomatoes? Or an allotment on a roof? My Tiny Veg Plot is packed with alternative ways for slotting veg and fruit into teeny-tiny spaces. Written by garden expert Lia Leendertz and with photography by Mark Diacono, this delightful little book is packed with inspiring tales to help you make the most of the space you have.

FEATURE TAMSIN WESTHORPE PHOTOGRAPHS (SHED) ANDREA JONES, DESIGN TONY DAVY & MIKE ROBERTS; (HARDY PLANT SOCIETY) JONATHAN BUCKLEY, DEMONSTRATION CAROL KLEIN; (DAHLIAS) ROBERT MABIC, ALL GAP PHOTOS

Cut a dash with dahlias

What does the Society aim to achieve? The Hardy Plant Society is a charity set up in 1957 to promote the growing of hardy herbaceous perennial plants through the sharing of knowledge. Do you have to be a knowledgeable gardener to join? Not at all. Some of us are experts, including nursery owners and plant explorers, like our president, Roy Lancaster. But some are beginners and most of us are somewhere in between.

Fill your garden with dahlias for late summer colour

Food notes We want this now...

The perfect dish to show off home-grown squash

Cast iron never goes out of style – in fact, it just gets better with time! Cook with the gorgeous new range from Morsø and serve directly from the pan to add an authentic chef touch to your dining table. Our favourite is the sauté pan, £149, with its smooth, oiled oak handle contrasting with the tactile black iron.

O U R FAV O U R I T E O I L P R O D U C E R S

Summer Harvest Oils

FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT PHOTOGRAPH (RECIPIE) TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM; (LARDER) PAUL WINCH-FURNESS

In 2008, IT consultant Mark Bush swapped his leather brogues for wellies and moved to rural Perthshire to work on his father-in-law’s farm. The following year he started pressing his own rapeseed oil, which is now sold worldwide, including to Michelin star chefs, such as Andrew Fairlie. What’s so special about your produce? Our Perthshire soil, climate and long hours of sunlight during spring and summer are perfectly suited to grow oilseed rape. We grow, press, and bottle our own seed on our family farm. By coldpressing, we retain the seed’s flavour and natural benefits. What’s your favourite way to cook with rapeseed oil? It is very versatile and can be used in dressings, baking, stir-frying or for dipping. The light, buttery flavour makes it delicious in cakes and mayonnaise, and the high smoke point means you can roast with it, too. What’s your favourite product you sell? That has to be our standard coldpressed rapeseed oil due to its versatility – it is a must-have for any kitchen.

The season for squash

What can you teach us about UK rapeseed? It is a great rotational crop as it has a long tap root which helps to break up the soil and maintain good soil conditions, which beneﬁts future crops grown in the same ﬁeld. What do you love most about living in Perthshire? We are only an hour from Edinburgh, but our house looks out over the foothills of the Highlands, which is an area of outstanding natural beauty. We are very blessed. Three words to sum up your company? Quality, delicious and honest. Summer Harvest Oils, 01764 683288, summer harvestoils. co.uk.

Tuck into this pesto roasted dish. Heat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C/Gas 6, then halve 2 butternut squash, scoop out the seeds and cut crosses into the flesh. Brush 2 tbsp fresh pesto over the flesh and season. Cover with greased foil and bake for 1 hour or until tender. Meanwhile, put a chopped onion with 1 tbsp olive oil in a roasting tin and cook for 25 mins. Add 250g cherry tomatoes and 4 rashers of chopped streaky bacon, and cook for 20 mins more. Stir in 80g baby spinach, 2 tbsp pesto, 80g crumbled feta and 35g sundried tomatoes. Season. Scoop a little flesh from the squash and stir through the veg. Fill the squash with the mix and bake for 10 mins. Sprinkle over 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts, to serve.

KITCHEN HAND Lauded for his use of seasonal produce – often grown on the rooftop of his London restaurant, The Dairy – chef Robin Gill is one to watch. In his ﬁrst cookbook he shares his tips for farm-to-table eating, keeping a well-stocked larder, fermenting, pickling, curing and smoking at home. Larder (£26, Absolute Press).

Country Homes & Interiors

OUT AND ABOUT

Sarah and Sally Wilkie’s shop is set in a tithe barn – something of an antique in itself.

Wander through the trove of magical finds, from reclaimed consoles to handblown glass vases.

O U R FAV O U R I T E S H O P F O R V I N TA G E F I N D S

Home Barn

Sisters-in-law Sarah and Sally Wilkie combined their creative backgrounds and mutual passion for interiors to open Home Barn in 2010. Located in a 17th-century tithe barn in Little Marlow, Buckinghamshire, the shop is full of vintage and reclaimed furnishings and accessories, as well as pieces crafted by local artisans. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SET UP YOUR SHOP? Very simply, we love

vintage. When we were looking at building a business that allowed us to spend more time with our kids but also be creative, it was very much the obvious choice. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE HOME BARN’S STYLE? Perfectly

imperfect, rustic and natural. There’s something for everyone and every piece has its own story to tell. 16

Country Homes & Interiors

HOW IS YOUR SHOP UNIQUE?

There aren’t many stores that are tucked into such a beautiful building! And, as a family-run small business, we get to know each and every one of our customers really well – they become an extension of our family. HOW IS IT LAID OUT? It’s a big open-plan barn so you can wander around as you wish. We have a little office in the middle where you’ll often find us lurking around planning future buying trips. There are items everywhere you look, so you’re certainly never short of those Instagram moments. WHO VISITS YOUR SHOP? We have a large following locally, as well as customers who travel from further afield – we’ve become a destination store. Lots of interior designers visit

when they’re looking for vintage finds, too, as they trust our products. WHAT’S COMING UP? We’re getting ready for autumn with a slightly richer colour palette, from black to deep blue. Mood lighting and candleholders are always winners at this time of year and we’ve sourced plenty of both in organic forms and natural colours. Some of our favourite new additions are handcrafted, leather-handled, glass hurricane lamps. Trend-wise, think global traveller – vintage kantha throws, cushions with tassles and artisan pieces are all very much in this autumn. Home Barn, Wilton Farm, Marlow Road, Little Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 3RR, 01628 474011, homebarnshop.co.uk.

FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS

HEAD TO BUCKINGHAMSHIRE FOR AN ALADDIN’S CAVE OF TIME-WORN FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES

C O U N T RY S T Y L E I C O N S

Make a house a home

A log burner for evenings out Rusty outdoor woodburner, £425, Cox & Cox. Acacia macramé chair, £295, French Connection. Braided pouf, £120, Amara. Scarf, £145, Abigail Bury.

Invest in some cosy, patterned, outdoor cushions and rugs to give your garden a colourful look.

Country Homes & Interiors

A real crowd pleaser whatever the season, but even more so in summer when the evenings are that bit longer, a burner or brazier has become a popular addition to many a country patio. Used for cooking, heating or simply gathering around, these exterior grates make outdoor living all the more heart warming. WHAT’S THE STORY? The practice of sitting around a fire is as old as time, and the simple form of braziers dates back to ancient cultures. A basic container for solid fuel, initial designs were simple box styles with culinary, warming or even ritual uses. Some were even styled into low tables to warm winter wear and blankets. Coal and wood were both commonly burnt with the occasional addition of lavender, rosemary or citrus peel. WHICH STYLE TO CHOOSE If heat source is the priority, a traditional log burner is hard to beat being both practical to use and visually pleasing with doors to watch the flickering flames. If you go for a brazier, try a hanging dish and frame style. Some designs come with spark covers that increase their safety, which are a popular choice for families. As a general rule, the heavier the brazier, the more stable it will be when lit. STYLE IT UP Place the burner in a sheltered area to avoid the smoke blowing too much. Provide lots of comfy chairs, rugs and blankets to make sitting around the fire a bonding experience, and keep a supply of dry wood, coal or smokefree fuel options and fire-making tools nearby to keep the fire going. Then bring out some easy-to-prepare food to enjoy a casual cook-out.

NEXT MONTH A CLOCK THAT SAYS YOU’RE ON TIME

FEATURE/ART DIRECTION SARA BIRD STYLING ANNA MALHOMME DE LA ROCHE STYLING ASSISTANT CHARLOTTE MURRAY PHOTOGRAPHS MAX ATTENBOROUGH.

IN OUR ONGOING SERIES, WE SELECT SIMPLE COUNTRY-STYLE HERO PIECES THAT LOOK BEAUTIFUL… AND MAKE LIFE FEEL EVEN BETTER

C O U N T RY H O M E S & I N T E R I O R S

& INTERIORS

Summer

POPS UP AT

See the magazine brought to life!

Weald of Kent Country Craft Show 7-9 SEPTEMBER 2018

ountry Homes & Interiors will be hosting a pop-up marquee at the Weald of Kent Country Craft Show, set in the stunning grounds of Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, this September. We’ll be bringing together a curated collection of our favourite small businesses, including homeware, fashion and jewellery brands. Plus, we’ll be offering visitors the chance to subscribe to our magazine at a special show rate and receive a free copy of Mary Berry’s Family Sunday Lunches, worth £25. There will also be lots of other marquees and markets for you to explore, as well as various craftspeople to discover, artisan food and drink to sample, and live music to listen to. You can even get an exclusive tour of the stately home, full of rich history, with the special House + Event ticket (see below). Dogs are welcome, but (with the exception of service animals) can’t enter the Food & Drink Village or the play area.

MEET, SHOP, BE INSPIRED YOU’LL FIND THE FOLLOWING EXHIBITORS IN OUR SUMMER MARQUEE…

Kemp Jewellers * Simon Forever England Ltd * Ladies Who Lunch Boutique * Creative Dezigns *

* ZziniHome Little Art Collection * The Jin Designs * Plus lots more! *

VISIT ICHFEVENTS.CO.UK * * TO BUY TICKETS OR CALL 01425 277988 Advance ticket prices are valid until 5pm on 3 September 2018 1 day ticket: Adults £8 in advance (£10 on the door). Seniors £7 in advance (£9 on the door) House + Event entry: Adults £14 in advance (N/A on the door). Seniors £14 in advance (N/A on the door). Under 16s free with adults.

Country Homes & Interiors

N O R T H Y O R K S H I R E FA R M C O N V E R S I O N

Heavenly peace CAROL ROBERTSON CONVERTED A GRANARY INTO A TRANQUIL AND BEAUTIFUL HOME...AND FOUND A WHOLE NEW LIFE WAITING FOR HER

Country Homes & Interiors

House The low row of former pigsties has been converted into a large living space and master suite. Kitchen The original granary flagstones and oak beams are key features. Bespoke cabinetry, Richard Ward Joinery. Cabinets painted in Shell, Neptune.

Country Homes & Interiors

N O R T H Y O R K S H I R E FA R M C O N V E R S I O N

Living room (Also left) This lofty space looks out onto the garden. On the exposed stone wall are sconces salvaged from the Grand Hotel in Scarborough, and shelves made from sections of old beams found in an outbuilding. Flooring, Calverts Carpets. Walls, painted in Wimborne White by Farrow & Ball. Sofas, Laura Ashley. Cushions and throws, Hare & Wilde.

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What makes this house a home… ‘My Aga is the soul of the house – it warms the whole place and makes it feel so cosy and welcoming’

Kitchen Taking out a wall between the original kitchen and living room created a light and open living space. The French pendant lights were an antique find. Chairs, Neptune and eBay. Range cooker, Aga. Cabinets, table base, painted in Shell by Neptune. Jug, Emma Bridgewater.

N O R T H Y O R K S H I R E FA R M C O N V E R S I O N

Some

houses have a real sense of sanctuary, a quiet calm that makes you feel instantly at home – Carol Robertson’s is one of those. Tucked away at the edge of a North Yorkshire village, the series of sheltered, pale stone farm buildings that make up her home look out over fields and country lanes. Carol found them just when she needed it most: she was feeling nervous in her existing home having been broken into; her best friend had, sadly, passed away; and her sons had moved away to Scotland. ‘I had to do something life-changing,’ says Carol, ‘but I didn’t know what.’ Invited over by the owner, an architect, she found her answer. ‘It was so lovely, warm and safe,’ she says, ‘and it was that feeling of escapism. We opened a bottle of wine and agreed I would go back home, put my house on the market and buy this one. It all happened very fast. I left my job and my life in Durham completely behind.’ At the time, the living space was the old granary, and the former piggery next to it was an office. ‘It was a renovation project,’ she says. Over three years, all her spare time was spent knocking down walls, damp-proofing, fitting new bathrooms, heating, plumbing and wiring. ‘I’ve learned that you can overcome any challenge,’ she says. ‘I kept being told: “You can’t do that – it’s a load-bearing wall” or “it’ll look terrible”, but I found people to come on board with me.’ The ground floor of the granary has been opened up to make a large, light-filled kitchen, its emphasis on natural materials and simplicity. It has a flagstone floor, beamed ceilings and rich woods everywhere. The walls and furniture are in shades of warm white. Above the kitchen are two understated bedrooms, with vintage-style beds, country furniture and fresh linen. The long barn, where pigs were kept, has been dramatically transformed. At one end is Carol’s bedroom, dressing room and bathroom, a beguiling mix of rustic and romantic, with its stripped-back stone, pretty French bed and accents of rose pink. Opened to the rafters, the central section is a gloriously spacious place to relax. Linen-covered sofas contrast with the rough-textured gable wall. ‘Having all the stone exposed would have been too much,’ she says, ‘but a little, lime-pointed, gives a sense of the history.’ In another nod to the farm’s past, Carol raided the sheds, unearthing the original stout barn door, with its oak braces and bolts intact, which now hangs as a focal point on the wall. Below is a low oak table, scored, weathered and scrubbed to within an inch of its life. ’I came back from the auction so proud of this filthy old table – “barn fresh”, they called it,’ she says, ‘and my lovely handyman said: “Carol, do you realise you have just bought a slaughtering table?” The irony is that I’m vegetarian.’ For Carol, the move to the country has brought a wealth of stories, a whole set of new skills and friends, as well as a beautiful home. ‘It’s been a lovely journey,’ she says. ‘I’ve met so many wonderful people and the tranquillity has given me time to recover. These four years have been magical. Now I’m ready to move on to the next phase of my life.’

AT HOME WITH... Owner Carol Robertson, a social worker, who has two grown-up sons, Sean and Callum. House An early 19th-century granary, piggery and farm outbuildings with three bedrooms. Carol moved here in 2014.

Country Homes & Interiors

O N M Y D O O R S T E P. . . Visit… ’Robin Hood’s Bay, especially in the colder months. I also love the gardens at Castle Howard (01653 648333, castlehoward.co.uk). The colours of autumn are stunning against the backdrop of the castle.’ Shop at… ‘The Living Quarter (01751 470158) in Burgate, Pickering, with its lovely mix of antique furnishings, French mirrors

and candles; Cedarbarn (01751 475614, cedarbarnfarmshop.co. uk), a family-run farm shop and Bils & Rye (01439 748392, bilsandrye.com), a friendly art gallery in Kirbymoorside.’ Go for a meal at… ‘Graze on the Green (01751 417468, grazeonthegreen.co.uk) at Rosedale Abbey for home-cooked food and delicious desserts.’

Main bedroom Carol has chosen an eclectic mix of antique furniture and new accessories. Bedlinen, The White Company. Throw, Hare & Wilde. Cushions, Kate Forman and Cabbages & Roses.

N O R T H Y O R K S H I R E FA R M C O N V E R S I O N

Bathroom An elegant bateau bath,

Hallway Warm

painted in dusky pink, takes centre stage. The chair was an auction find, now covered in Kate Forman fabric. Bath, taps and rug, all eBay. Mirror, Laura Ashley. Towel, Marks & Spencer.

white walls are a subtle backdrop. Sisal flooring, Calverts Carpets.

Shower room Pale tiles

What I love most about living here…

Bathroom A Frenchstyle console basin adds a dash of glamour. Similar basin from eBay. Wall lights, Hare & Wilde.

give the shower room a fresh look. Metro tiles, Coopers of Stortford. Latch, Richard Ward Joinery.

‘I have never felt so connected to nature. I love seeing the birds, the different seasons, taking long walks and the absolute peace’

Guest bedroom Tucked into the eaves, the granary space has a cosy feel. Bed, Feather & Black. Bedlinen, The White Company. Armchair, Laura Ashley. FEATURE HAZEL DOLAN PHOTOGRAPHS JEREMY PHILLIPS

Country Homes & Interiors

ROOM IDEAS

Be inspired by

Carol’s barn living room Introduce a layer of warmth with this small-scale weave lambswool softie. Parquet patterned throw, 185x140cm, col Gold, £89.95, Bronte by Moon.

Inspired by classic French pieces, this adorable charmer keeps things simple in an antique white finish. Ella table lamp, H55cm, £70, Sweetpea & Willow.

Upcycle original pieces from your home to add unique character. This old barn door makes a striking ‘ wall art’ feature.

Make a statement with this sink-into classic. Padstow two-seater sofa, H89xW175xD96cm, col Linen Stripe Natural, £1,250, Laura Ashley.

Carol’s style secret Cosy up a long space with tactile throws and scatter cushions for layers of subtle interest.

Warm underfoot, this fine-quality timber can also cope with the heavy wear of families and pets. Home Choice engineered European rustic oak flooring, £56.99sq m, UK Flooring Direct.

This eye-catching beauty is decorated using a traditional centuries-old tissue-transfer printing process – impressive! Black Willow fruit bowl, Dia30cm, £75, Burleigh.

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Modern Country Classic Vertical wall radiator Radiating welcome warmth to dry clothes, warm toes and keep our homes toasty, these tall ‘hot boxes’ were a must-have for wealthy Victorians, and are a staple feature in modern country homes. Efficiently cosying

up large areas through convection, today’s slim, cast-iron vertical column conceptions make the best use of limited wall space while looking stylish in their own right, with a hint of the vintage-industrial.

Where to buy...

•Heritage Cast Iron Radiators for a huge range of Farrow & Ball colours. •Soak.com for mirrored options and neutral colours. •Best Heating for an affordable range of options.

Country Homes & Interiors

House The cottage has a fairytale feel enhanced by its idyllic setting. Virginia creeper trails down the faรงade adding colour.

Vintage vision QUITE BY CHANCE, CLAIRE McFADYEN STUMBLED ON HER DREAM HOUSE IN THE COUNTRY AND HAS CREATED A CHARMING INTERIOR, AWASH WITH TIME-WORN FINDS

S U R R E Y C O T TAG E Living room Footstool, DFS. Lantern, TK Maxx. Mirror, Louisa Grace Interiors. Woodburner, Firefox.

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Country Homes & Interiors

Living room Claire has chosen an elegant scheme with a palette of neutrals. Sofa, footstool, DFS. Cushions, Beyond France. Rug, Ikea. Tray table, Habitat.

Snug A log-filled fireplace adds interest. Walls, painted in Inchyra Blue by Farrow & Ball. Armoire, Louisa Grace Interiors. Cabinet, Ardingly International Antiques & Collectors Fair.

I’ve always loved the countryside and adore horses,’ says

AT HOME WITH... Owners Claire McFadyen and her husband Jamie, founders of Louisa Grace Interiors. They live here with daughters Maisy, six, and Mollie, four.

House A Victorian cottage that was formerly kennels for the hunting dogs of a nearby country house. It has three bedrooms. The couple purchased the property in January 2017.

Claire McFadyen. But when she and her husband Jamie were living in their previous home in a small town in Surrey, they had no plans to move anywhere more rural – until fate intervened. ‘Jamie is originally from Wandsworth in London so he’s a city boy,’ explains Claire. ‘We had renovated our house and were quite settled, then my dad emailed me and said he had spotted a house for sale that he thought would suit us. His words were, “This house looks like a belter”.’ Claire and Jamie went to view the house the very next day. ‘We instantly loved the setting – it was at the bottom of a hill in the middle of the countryside. The house itself particularly appealed to me because it looked like something out of a fairytale – the path leading to it wends its way through the garden. I loved the idea of bringing up our daughters Maisy and Mollie here. The downside was that the property was cold, damp and miserable. An elderly couple had lived here and it needed lots of work. But the potential was obvious, so we put in an asking-price offer straight away.’ However, even if their offer was accepted, the McFadyens weren’t sure the sale could go ahead as they needed to sell not only the house they were living in, but also another

Country Homes & Interiors

S U R R E Y C O T TAG E Hallway As well as making a charming tableau, the desk is a neat workstation. Chair, table, Louisa Grace Interiors. Linen cushion, Nkuku. Mirror, Sunbury Antiques Market.

What makes this house a home… ‘Having the woodburners – they make it feel so cosy – and now our daughters want one in their snug too!’

Hallway The flames of a woodburner create a warm welcome. Basket, Nkuku. Candlestick, One World. Glass vase, Mad Lilies. Coal bucket, Garden Trading.

Hallway Accessories are cleverly displayed. Shelf, Ardingly International Antiques & Collectors Fair. Mirror, Sunbury Antiques Market.

What we love most about living here… Conservatory Wooden bowls, Nkuku. Square plates, Villeroy & Boch. Silver champagne bucket, Culinary Concepts. White serving dishes, Le Creuset. Plants, Ikea.

‘Being in the countryside, surrounded by fields, but being so close to London, too’

Conservatory An industrial-style scheme is in contrast with the rural backdrop. Hide, Yarrow Art & Design. Pendant lights, Louisa Grace Interiors. Runner, Beyond France.

S U R R E Y C O T TAG E

Kitchen The tongueand-groove panelling injects country character. Wooden worksurface, Kitchen Worktops Direct. Tongue-and-groove, painted in Skimming Stone by Farrow & Ball.

one that Claire was renting out. When they explained the situation to the vendor, he told them he had already received an offer – but fortunately he accepted theirs. ‘I then had to sell two houses quickly,’ says Claire. ‘Luckily, our house sold 12 days later, after a bidding war, and the rental property a few weeks after that, so everything fell into place.’ As Claire and Jamie had worked on properties previously, they weren’t daunted by the prospect of renovating another and set to work on their new project with relish. The priority was installing new central heating, replumbing and rewiring the house, and then replastering the walls. The chimneys also needed some repair work. It was winter when the purchase went through, and the first hurdle was the boiler breaking down the day after the sale was completed. ‘Our workmen said it was the coldest site they’d ever worked on!’ recalls Claire. And worse was to come. ‘One snowy day while the plumbing work was going on, our electrician was in the house with Jamie, and when the time came to leave they realised they were snowed in!’ The main house renovations have now been done but all the way through Claire kept in mind that she would one day want to have a kitchen extension, as the cottage has a small galley kitchen. And replacing the existing conservatory is

Kitchen White china on open shelves gives a contemporary twist. China, Le Creuset and Villeroy & Boch. Plant pots, Woodcote Green Garden Centre & Nurseries.

Country Homes & Interiors

Mollie’s bedroom

A French-style bed and relaxed linens add natural elegance. Bed, Brissi. Cushions, throw, both The Forest Bailiff. Bedlinen, The White Company. Blind, Ambience Home.

Pretty pinks add a feminine touch. Throw, Zara Home. Cushion, Peony & Sage. Rug, bedlinen, both The White Company. Walls, painted in Dimity by Farrow & Ball.

also still on the to-do list. They have made cosmetic changes to these rooms while they wait for planning permission. ‘The kitchen was painted dark blue so we lightened it up and painted the units in an off-white shade,’ says Claire. The wooden worksurfaces help complete the rustic look. When it came to the rest of the interior, Claire knew exactly what look she wanted. ‘I decided on a modern rustic scheme with lots of vintage pieces to add character,’ she says. Some period features were also added, such as the Victorian slate fire surround in the living room. A neutral backdrop throughout provides a soothing atmosphere, with pops of colour injected via accessories. However, in the snug, Claire went for a darker option and chose a grey-blue paint shade on the walls. ‘We wanted it to be cosy,’ she says. And in the conservatory there are industrial touches, with statement factory-style lighting. With plans afoot for a new extension, the cottage is still a work in progress, but the move to the countryside has provided an enviable lifestyle for the family. ‘We love living here,’ says Claire. ‘We open the curtains in the morning and see the fields and the horses. We have rabbits in the garden and deer come, too. It’s a lovely way of life.’ Louisa Grace Interiors, 07956 650895, louisagrace.co.uk.

Country Homes & Interiors

Bathroom Reclaimed panels create a salvaged feel. Bath panel, Letter B, both Louisa Grace Interiors. Tiles, find similar at Topps Tiles.

FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS PHOTOGRAPHS POLLY ELTES

Main bedroom

ROOM IDEAS

Be inspired by

Claire’s hallway This delightful letter is lovingly crafted from mango wood and finished with a shabby chic, whitewash finish. Wooden letter, col Antique White, H23cm, £9.95, Posh Graffiti.

Accessorise this molten urn silhouette with a chic shade to light up the room. Urn brass lamp base, H37cm, £250; Cotton empire shade, col Black, H26xDia41cm, £37.50, both India Jane.

Treat your floorboards to a vintage-inspired update with a hint of delicate pattern and subtle colour. Victoriana traditional cotton rug, col Gold, W140xL200cm, £270, Laura Ashley.

Create a simple workstation with a small desk and clever storage, utilising the space in your hallway.

Choose this modern neutral with warm light grey undertones for a soothing scheme. Skimming Stone estate emulsion, £45 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball.

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHS POLLY ELTES

Claire’s style secret Welcome visitors in a reception area filled with charming vintage finds and curious focal points, each with a story to be told.

Scribble lists and notes at this woodfinish petite cutie – it’s the perfect fit for smaller spaces. Julina oak desk, H76x W120xD60cm, £599, Out There Interiors.

Modern Country Classic Antiqued mirror glass This wonderfully distressed reaction on classic mirror glass occurs when the silver becomes oxidised, creating a unique patina. Modern techniques like silvering, distressing or chemical application have been

developed to replicate the original effect. Finish styles include mottled, speckled, mercury and azzurro, to name but a few. A stunning focal point with aged appeal, this vintage design statement works in any room.

Where to buy...

•Looking Glass Of Bath for bespoke makes, using 19th century Victorian techniques. •Rough Old Glass for hand silvered antiqued finishes. •Saligo Design for bespoke commissions and mirror tiles.

Country Homes & Interiors

Pared back and pleasing HELEN AND RICHARD SPENCER KNOCKED TOGETHER TWO DARK PERIOD COTTAGES TO CREATE A COUNTRY HOME WITH A CONTEMPORARY FEEL

OX F O R D S H I R E V I L L AG E H O U S E

Exterior The pretty house is 300 years old. Front door painted in Pavilion Gray, Farrow & Ball. Living room

(Left) Opulent fabrics and rich colours add to the luxe feel. The coffee table was made by Richard from a slice of tree trunk. Teal cushions, Marks & Spencer. Sofas, Made.com. Floor tiles, Whichford Pottery.

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Country Homes & Interiors

Living room The contemporary feel is achieved with statement pieces and layered rugs. Gold table, Heal’s. Geometric table, Atkin & Thyme. Tresse rug, Green Decore. Icelandic sheepskin rug, Hide Rugs.

Village life in the Cotswolds definitely suits Helen Spencer

AT HOME WITH... Owners Helen Spencer, owner of fashion boutique Nellie & Dove (nellieanddove.com), and her husband Richard, who runs Spencer Builders. They live here with their children Fred, 17, and twins Bonnie and Poppy, 14, plus Buster the cocker spaniel.

House A 300-year-old property that was originally two separate dwellings. It has five bedrooms and the couple bought it in 1997.

and her husband Richard – so much so that when they moved to their forever home, they not only stayed in the same village, they remained in the same street and literally moved next door. ‘We love the village we live in,’ says Helen. ‘Our location is great for the shops and pubs, yet London is just over an hour’s drive. Richard is from this village and his grandfather used to live along the street. His grandfather was a stonemason and there are lots of memories of him in the village. I used to come to the village, too, as a child because there was an ice cream parlour here. When both cottages next door to where we were living came up for sale, it was too good an opportunity to miss.’ The sale consisted of two separate properties, along with a barn, that had been owned by an old man who lived in one half. ‘Richard remembers watching the Queen’s coronation in the lefthand cottage as it had the only TV in the street!’ Helen and Richard weren’t planning to live in either of the houses. ‘We were originally going to develop the buildings to turn them into three different properties and sell them all, but then I became pregnant with twins and we realised we would need more space, so we decided to renovate the cottages into one property and live there ourselves.’ The couple knew extensive work would need to be done to create their dream home, but fortunately Richard runs a

Country Homes & Interiors

OX F O R D S H I R E V I L L AG E H O U S E

What makes this house a home… ‘The layout around the courtyard creates a homely atmosphere and is great for parties, too!’

Kitchen Helen has created a modern look with clean lines. Texture plays its part with wooden units and log stools, topped with sheepskin covers Helen made herself. Bespoke units and worktops, Chamber Furniture. Flooring, Stone & Wood Tiles.

Dining area A vaulted ceiling and stained-glass window create the wow factor, while vintage cinema chairs add a quirky touch. Table and chairs, Titchmarsh & Goodwin. Cinema seats, The Old Flight House.

What we love most about living here... ‘We have large windows so it is very light, and it’s great being able to see across the courtyard into each room’

OX F O R D S H I R E V I L L AG E H O U S E

Bathroom The neutral scheme features an oversized bath. Bath, Bathrooms International. Tiles, Fired Earth. Walls, painted in Shaded White by Farrow & Ball.

Main bedroom Aquas and greys mix in this elegant space. Quilt, blanket and cushions, Zara Home and Oliver Bonas. Pendant light, Liberty.

building company so was well placed to do the renovation. The family moved in, living in the left-hand property, which was more modern and had central heating. ‘The other side, which is older, had mud floors, really low ceilings and no heating so needed a lot of work doing to it,’ says Helen. The first major structural work tackled was adding a kitchen extension. ‘It was a long rectangular structure originally and we wanted to make it into a U-shape surrounding a courtyard by building on each side,’ says Helen. A green oak-framed dining room extension with vaulted ceiling, plus a utility room, were added to the kitchen. The dividing wall between the two cottages was taken down to create a large central living room. ‘It would have been poky otherwise,’ says Helen, ‘but it took four men a week to take down the thick dividing wall. Richard then used all the stone to build a pool house across the courtyard from the kitchen.’ At the same time, the staircase from the left-hand house was removed and a new one designed to replace the right hand one, located centrally in the joined-up property. The circular oak frame was made in Wales and curved windows were fitted in the wall above to complement it. Next, one of the two front doors was removed and filled in and a pretty porch added to the other, with wisteria now contributing to the picturesque exterior. Two years ago the Spencers installed a new kitchen. ‘The kitchen was quaint and fussy before, so I wanted to move

The curving staircase was made in Wales from oak. Runner, The Carpet & Flooring Company. Copper pendant light, The French House.

Country Homes & Interiors

OX F O R D S H I R E V I L L AG E H O U S E

Pool house The A-framed space is a beautiful place for swimming all year round. Wicker chair, Wyevale Garden Centres.

Courtyard The U-shaped house surrounds a pretty courtyard. Garden furniture, Posh Garden Furniture.

Country Homes & Interiors

O N O U R D O O R S T E P. . . Visit… ‘The historic house and gardens at Blenheim Palace (01993 810530, blenheimpalace.com) near Woodstock, the birthplace and family home of Sir Winston Churchill. It is good for walks and roller skating.’ Shop at… ‘Eagles Fine Food (01869 338500, eaglesfinefood. co.uk), a fabulous butcher’s and deli in Deddington – it is known locally as the Harrods of Deddington.’ Go for a meal at… ‘The Falkland Arms (01608 683653, falklandarms. co.uk) in Great Tew. It serves the most delicious food and supports local farmers and growers – and Richard and I met there!’

FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS PHOTOGRAPHS POLLY ELTES

forward and create something more contemporary,’ says Helen. They chose a design from Chamber Furniture. ‘They were absolutely amazing and a pleasure to deal with, and they paid great attention to detail.’ More recently, Helen has redecorated the house throughout. ‘Originally when we renovated the house, the decor was quite French in style, but as time went on we wanted to change it. I wanted everything clean and simple so that it was easy to look after.’ In keeping with the contemporary, pared-back feel of the kitchen, the interior has a modern country look with a hint of Scandi. ‘I love simple pieces and lots of texture and layering – I’ve used different textured rugs in the living room, for example,’ says Helen. ‘I like the house to look cosy and welcoming.’ Although the house is old, it now features plenty of mod cons, such as underfloor heating and a Rako lighting system, which make it ideal for 21st-century modern country living. ‘The house involved a lot of hard work, but it’s great to come home and relax here,’ says Helen. ‘I love the U-shape with the courtyard in the centre – I can be in the kitchen and see the kids in the swimming pool or see through to the living room. ‘The house is so light and airy – it’s deceptive from the front as it has the appearance of a period cottage, but it looks like a different building from the back. I just love being at home.’ Chamber Furniture, 01959 532553, chamberfurniture.co.uk.

ROOM IDEAS

Be inspired by

Helen’s bedroom

Pretty up your bedside with this delicate white faux flower arrangement. Large allium in ceramic pot, H42cm, £19.50, Marks & Spencer.

Get lost in this alluring landscape, created using raw pigments. No Man’s Land framed print, H42xW54cm, £90, by Andrew Lansley at King & McGaw.

Paint your walls in a cool white, with just the slightest hint of grey, for a minimal look with cleansing appeal. Blackened emulsion, £45 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball.

Create a cosy cocoon-like look with layered textured fabrics such as velvet and mohair.

Layer the bed with an opulent throw in a soft spectrum of calming greens. M192 mohair throw, 142x 100cm, £75.95, Avoca.

Helen’s style secret Take inspiration from natural elements such as air and water to create a serene space in a soothing palette of aquas and greys.

Snuggle down in the epitome of simple elegance – this Scandiinspired design. Hendrik king-size bed with headboard cushions in Dove Grey Smart Velvet, H103xW161x L235cm, £1,020, Sofa.com.

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Modern Country Classic Bubble glass pendant Add warmth, drama and mesmerising artistry from above with a spectacular feature pendant in a mix of smooth and mottled glass, and opaque and translucent finishes. These clustered, globe designs exude

exquisite style when unlit and ambient warmth when switched on. Pick one ready-made, or commission a bespoke design to perfectly complement existing decor and colour schemes, acting as a striking focal point.

Where to buy…

•Curiousa & Curiousa for stunning British-made, jewel-coloured creations. •Rothschild & Bickers for made-to-order items using refined glass-blowing skills. •Houzz for modern styles.

Country Homes & Interiors

S U S S E X C OAC H H O U S E

Exterior The Hampsonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home is a former coach house, built in the early 19th century and converted into a residential home in the Sixties

Elegant evolution OVER TIME, LULU HAMPSONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DECOR CHOICES AND CAREFULLY SELECTED FINDS RESULTED IN A RELAXED FAMILY HOME WITH AN ORGANIC AND LUSH FEEL TO IT

Country Homes & Interiors

Kitchen-diner Lulu has combined industrial-style lighting with softer touches, to create the perfect spot for entertaining. Beyond is the informal snug. Cabinetry, Tom Howley. Composite flagstone flooring, similar at Farmhouse Flagstones. Chairs, One World.

Creating

AT HOME WITH... Owners Interior designer Lulu Hampson and her husband moved into the house in 1996; they have four grown-up daughters.

House A former Victorian coach house with seven bedrooms, to which the Hampsons have added an extension.

a welcoming home for family and friends, as well as for herself and her husband, is paramount to interior designer Lulu Hampson. ‘I wanted to make our home as comfortable as possible for people to come over and have a lovely time with us,’ she says. ‘We love sharing food, enjoying drinks and relaxing with others.’ To ensure her West Sussex home of 22 years looks its best for visitors, Lulu, who established AMH Designs 30 years ago, keeps on top of the decor. ‘I’m about to tackle my bedroom and hallway again. With walls I stick to the neutral shades – as I often tell my clients, you can give a room its distinct personality with soft furnishings much more easily if you have a simple backdrop.’ Art is another important element in Lulu’s schemes, and she feels this should be the talking point of a space, rather than the colour of the walls. ‘I have such respect for artists who have the confidence to put their work out there. If you travel, or shop around online, you’ll see you don’t have to spend a huge amount to get an original piece. Having said that, some works are very much worth more of a financial investment.’ When she and her husband first viewed their former Victorian coach house, they appreciated its solid bones, high ceilings and good-sized rooms. ‘We could see that

Country Homes & Interiors

S U S S E X C OAC H H O U S E Kitchen Sheepskins and fabric-upholstered chairs add an extra welcoming aspect to this space. Dining table, bench, both Barker & Stonehouse. Sheepskins, Oakapple Trading.

What makes this house a home... â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Memories. Our daughters grew up here and the eldest is getting married here next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Hallway The entrance is spacious yet inviting. Panelling painted in Mouse’s Back, walls painted in Bone, both by Farrow & Ball.

Living room Art is the key to Lulu’s schemes – she uses it to inspire the colours of her interiors. ‘Den’ painting, Geoffrey Johnson.

What we love most about living here... ‘This house encourages us to keep busy, whether we’re planning in the garden or working on new room ideas’

Family bathroom This traditional Alfie, the family dog, enjoying the garden, which houses a gypsy caravan.

room has been given a modern feel with a contemporary freestanding roll-top bath. Bath, Bathstore. Basin unit, Fired Earth. Walls painted in Slaked Lime, Little Greene.

S U S S E X C OAC H H O U S E Main bedroom Quirky lines create interesting effects with light and shade. Bed, And So To Bed. Cushions on bed, The White Company.

ON OUR D O O R S T E P. . .

FEATURE NAOMI JONES PHOTOGRAPHS ROBERT SANDERSON

Visit… ‘We’re lucky to live not too far from Goodwood (01243 755055, goodwood.com), which hosts motorsport and horse racing events throughout the year. We especially love The Goodwood Revival (7-9 September 2018), an annual event that brings back the glamour of driving in the past.’

Shop at… ‘I’ve picked up quite a few bits from One Forty (01483 272627, oneforty.co.uk) in Cranleigh, Surrey. It’s a lovely family store selling items for the home, garden and wardrobe.’ Go for a meal at… ‘Milk Churn (01403 823980, bookhams.com) is a café at Bookham Harrison Farms near Rudgwick that’s a big hit with children. It serves fantastic shakes and snacks that showcase its award-winning cheeses, including a wonderful macaroni cheese.’

this size and style of house would allow us to entertain with ease,’ says Lulu. ‘But having been converted in the Sixties, our new home had been left in a time warp.’ Despite having two young daughters at the time, the couple were determined to renovate the house within the first couple of years. Along with updating all the essentials, such as the plumbing, electrics and decor in the original parts of the house, they also constructed a two-storey extension on the site of an old garage. This gave them two additional bedrooms above a generous snug just beyond the kitchen, so creating a large open-plan expanse, with full-width bi-fold doors that open on to a new courtyard. ‘It was ideal when the girls were young – I could keep an eye on them while I was cooking,’ says Lulu. ‘And it’s still a very sociable area, which suits the kind of informal get-togethers we love hosting. ‘Our house has evolved so much over the years,’ she says, ‘from the family home full of toys and clutter, to a more grown-up entertaining space. We didn’t consider leaving – I think it’s far better to work with the home you love and adapt it to suit your changing needs, rather than going through all the stress of moving. Your home has the power to really lift your mood, and I firmly believe that if you look after it, it will look after you.’ Country Homes & Interiors

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ROOM IDEAS

Be inspired by

Lulu’s kitchen-diner Hang this Scandi inspiration over your dining table for a striking statement. Digbeth pendant light, H25xDia26cm, col Carbon-Steel, £50, Garden Trading.

Display a decorative selection of artwork sourced on your travels. With their rustic farmhouse looks, these textured tiles are our cream-of-the-crop pick for country homes and cottage kitchens. Noce tumbled travertine tiles, £31sq m, Floors of Stone.

Treat dinner guests to a cosy perch by laying a gorgeously soft runner on your kitchen bench. Yeti rug, L93x W54cm, col Grey, £85, Celtic & Co.

Whether hosting a relaxed weekend brunch or special occasion dinner party, this storage-savvy team of cuties promises to impress. Always Entertaining The Blue Edit nesting bowls, largest Dia24cm, £50 for 4, Denby. Lovingly constructed from reclaimed British pine, this unique piece is a sustainable choice. Georgian dining table, 300x100cm, £3,775, Timothy Oulton at Barker and Stonehouse.

Lulu’s style secret Create a sense of occasion at informal gatherings with pretty floral arrangements in glass jars.

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Modern Country Classic Five-door range cooker The heart of every dream country kitchen, a homely range oven can’t be beaten when it comes to nostalgia. Just the thing for enthusiastic cooks with large flocks, the new five-oven designs feature roasting, baking,

simmering, slow-cooking and warming ovens. So you can enjoy the classic good looks and ambient warmth of a range, alongside the mod-cons and automatic programming options of an electric cooker.

Where to buy…

•Aga for a range of bright and breezy colours. •Everhot for Britishmanufactured designs and energy-efficient running. •Rangemaster for a mix of traditional and modern styles.

Country Homes & Interiors

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SUNSHINE state of mind!

Bring a ‘let’s linger longer’ feel to your home this summer by taking inspiration from the slow-paced pleasures of the holiday season. This sophisticated look draws together lush patterns from the cutting garden in sun-drenched shades of peach and terracotta. Designs feature potager prints of full-bloom florals, ripe fruits matched with simple stitch repeats, handcrafted textiles and warm wood and rusted finishes.

Country Homes & Interiors

SEASONAL LOOKS

CREATE RELAXED GARDEN TABLES Use faded linens featuring garden blooms to dress the table. Team with mismatched chairs and ﬂoral crockery for an informal lunch with a vintage twist. Hang lanterns to complete the look. See page 67 for details.

SEASONAL LOOKS

POTTER WITH PRETTY ACCESSORIES Make the most of the warmer days outside with easy-to-carry home and fashion ďŹ nds. A swish shopper, summery shawl or blanket and decorative cushion are quick ways to add country style. See page 67 for details.

Country Homes & Interiors

STYLE UP A SUMMERY SEATING AREA Up the comfort factor in your outside space with stylish soft furnishings. Pretty bunting and colourful cushions dress up plain walls and benches, while a ﬂoral curtain makes for an inviting backdrop. See page 67 for details.

FASHION A FABULOUS DOOR CURTAIN Create impact at a back door with a beautiful bloom-based curtain panel. A painted work table in a shaded area is the perfect spot to catch up with garden planning. See page 67 for details.

SEASONAL LOOKS

ADD A LITTLE LOVE TO A KITCHEN WINDOW Frame a favourite view from the kitchen sink with a bespoke blind featuring pretty ﬂoral scatters. Choose a sunshine shade to brighten up kitchen chores. See page 67 for details.

Country Homes & Interiors

SEASONAL LOOKS

DRESS WALLS WITH SUMMER FLORALS Go for a painterly wallpaper inspired by the traditional country cutting garden. Flowery ceramics and a candle covered in garden wildlife sit pretty on a rustic sideboard. See page 67 for details.

Country Homes & Interiors

HEAD A BED WITH DREAMY FABRIC An upholstered headboard is an easy way to bring pattern to a room and creates a statement backdrop for decorative cushions. Choose modern country repeats and charming patterns for a relaxed scheme. See page 67 for details.

Âť

SEASONAL LOOKS

All the details

PRODUCTS AND PRICES Pages 58-59

* SUNSHINE STATE OF MIND Blind, Meadow Scene, col Golden Ochre, £70, Victoria & Rebecca.

CREATE RELAXED DINING TABLES (In tree) Tear drop tea light holders, £19.95 for six, Dee Puddy Interiors. Hanging brass sky lanterns, £24 each, Rowen & Wren. Folding chair, from selection, Ikea. Similar stool and table, Appley Hoare Antiques. Tablecloth in Hedgerow, col Linen, £49.50m, Voyage Decoration. Cushion in Perdio, col Barragan Pink, £59m, Korla Home. Dylan Crossbody

Pages 60-61

POTTER WITH PRETTY ACCESSORIES St Mawes teak stool, £140, Garden Trading. Peony cushion cover, from £42, Damson & Slate. Jute bag, £45, Rockett St George. Stripe throw, £45, French Connection. Proserpine Magenta throw, £225, Designers Guild. Sneeboer rake, £68, Rowen & Wren. Similar pots, watering can, fork and lantern, from a selection, Appley Hoare Antiques. Poppy heads, from a selection, Norpar.

STYLE UP A SUMMERY SEATING AREA Curtain in Floral Posy FASHION A FABULOUS DOOR CURTAIN Curtain in Wild Garden, £56m,

FEATURE/ART DIRECTION SARA BIRD STYLING ANNA MALHOMME DE LA ROCHE STYLING ASSISTANT CHARLOTTE MURRAY PHOTOGRAPHS MAX ATTENBOROUGH

Pages 62-63

Pages 64-65

Damson & Slate. Potting bench, £54.99, Forest Garden; painted in Lead Grey wood paint, £18 for 750ml, Thorndown. Provence rug, £79, Luma. Seagrass Zigzag basket, £31, Amara. Havana multicoloured woven stripe throw, £20, Sainsbury’s Home. Similar shoes, £39, Jigsaw. Similar colander, from a selection, Garden Trading. Delphi Tote basket (on wall), £39, Bohemia Design. Dried ﬂowers, from a selection, Norpar. Wooden Garden plaque, £12, Sainsbury’s Home. (On bench) Crackle-glazed apothecary vase, £28; slate labels, £1 each, both Modern Country Style Interiors. Gardeners Gubbins pots, £23.95 for set with nine pots, The Worm That Turned. Concrete bird pot, £9, The Contemporary Home. French table water bottle, £4.95, Rex International. Harvest calendar, £14.95, The Worm That Turned. Crate with rope handles, £18, Scumble Goosie; painted in Sedge Green wood paint, £18 for 750ml, Thorndown. Datia mug, £12.95, Nkuku. Farm

DRESS WALLS WITH SUMMER FLORALS Walls, papered in Edenmuir, col Cinnamon, £31m, Voyage Decoration. Lali pot, as before. Vintage bottle, £15.95 for three, Dee Puddy Interiors. Larue vase, £22, Anthropologie. Bluebell & Wood Anemone scented candle, £18; greeting cards, £2.50 each, Beefayre. Glass butterﬂy dish, £4.50, Gisela Graham. Datia bowl, £14.95, Nkuku.

HEAD A BED WITH DREAMY FABRIC Headboard, £210, The Dormy House; covered in Catalina, col Cinnamon,

basket, £46, Bohemia Designs. Seagrass basket, col Black/Nature, £31, Amara. Bohemian Traveller throw, £20, Sainsbury’s Home. Vintage green plates, from a selection, Tobias and the Angel. Green tumbler, £5.95, Dee Puddy Interiors. Floral bowl, £14, Anthropologie. Barni terracotta honey pot, £6, Rowen & Wren. Floral Sweet Pea jug, £19.50, Gisela Graham. Leather strap bread board, £38, Rowen & Wren. Vintage French wire basket, £12; natural napkins, £14.95 for two, both Dee Puddy Interiors. Magdia Peony Silver Pink jug vase, £22, Rockett St George. Datia mug, £12.95, Nkuku.

Light, £66m, Abigail Bury. Plantation teak bench, £1,050, Nordic House. Cushions (from left): 1 Floral Posy Light, £43; 2 Chrysanthemum, £43, both Abigail Bury. 3 Knitted loop, £45, French Connection. Woven Palo Alto throw, £118, Anthropologie. (On ﬂoor) Macrame cushion, £76, Rockett St George. Cushion in Lluvia, col Orange, £59m, Korla Home. Pink tiled rug, £125, French Connection. Water hyacinth tray, £53 for two, Amara. Copper mug, £12, Rowen & Wren. Pipiry pitcher, £32, Anthropologie. Datia bowl, £14.95, Nkuku. Autumn bunting, £14 a string, Peony and Thistle at Notonhighstreet.com.

crate, £15.99, T&G Woodware. Crate, from a selection, Garden Trading. Fork, trowel, watering can, all Sainsbury’s Home. Similar stool, Appley Hoare Antiques. Zig Zag cushion, £43, Abigail Bury. Books, stylist’s own.

ADD A LITTLE LOVE TO A KITCHEN WINDOW Blind in Meadow Scene, col Golden Ochre, £70, Victoria & Rebecca. Dried ﬂowers, from a selection, Norpar. Small Farmhouse bread board, £11.99, T&G Woodware. String dispenser, £9, Modern Country Style Interiors. Red string, £3, Re. Red pocket pruner, £10.95, The Worm That Turned. Terracotta pots; small terracotta Lali pot, from £6 each, all Rowen & Wren. Vegetable brush, £11, Burford. Floral mug, £12, Anthropologie. Board, £12.95, Nkuku. Linen basket, £14.95, Rowen & Wren. Tea towel in Kelston, col Cinnamon, £32.50, Voyage Decoration. (On windowsill) Butterﬂy jug, £14.95, Rex International. Willy’s apple cider vinegar, £7, Burford. Vintage green bottle, £15.95 for three, Dee Puddy Interiors. Board, £9.95, Nkuku. Lali pot, as before. Book and card, stylist’s own.

from £34.50m, Iliv. Shanxi stool, £95, Lombok. Mini Gaston desk light, £65, Loaf. Spring Garden & Birds jug, £21, The Contemporary Home. Floral card, £2.50, Beefayre. Framed botanical leaf print, £95 for two assorted, Modern Country Style Interiors. Acanthus Indigo pillowcases, £22 each, Designers Guild. Clarence double duvet, £80; pillowcases, £20 each, Sophie Conran. Mirrored Butterﬂies Parchment cushion by John Derian, £95, Designers Guild. Bouquet Dark notebook, £19, Abigail Bury. Cotton pom-pom blanket, col Mustard, £145, Rockett St George.

Country Homes & Interiors

T H I N G S T H AT M A K E U S G O O O H !

Oven gloves Pop your door wedge pies and harvest roasties in and out of the Aga with an animated herd of farmyard beasties great and small...

Hob covers (from left): Hare Aga cover, £30 for set of two assorted designs, Clare Brownlow Pheasant Feather Art. Hen house hob cover, £32 for a pair, Izzi Rainey. Cows kitchen gauntlet, £16, Sophie Allport. Oven gloves (from left): Badger print oven glove, £24, by Sarah Drew at Elsie & Fleur. Dorrit oven gloves, £14.95, Joules. Highland cow oven gloves, £28, Izzi Rainey. Croft garlic tea towel, £12 for pack of two assorted designs, John Lewis. Enamel coffee pot and jug, similar from Falcon Enamelware. Wooden board, spoons and utensil jar, similar from T&G Woodware. Mug, similar from Denby.

Country Homes & Interiors

Linen aprons Jazz up your ‘kitchen wardrobe’ with a scrumptious capsule collection of slubby linen utilityware featuring deep pockets, button-strap details and cross-over backs.

Country Homes & Interiors

Aprons (hanging from cupboard): Galley grade apron, col Red Stripe, £16.95, Joules. Linen apron, col Blush, £37, Also Home. (Hanging from peg rail, from left): Linen cross-over apron, col Royal Blue, £59, Toast. Brittany stripe apron, col Cream/Natural, £25.99, LinenMe. Linen apron, col Lime, £37, Also Home. Parisian Blue linen half apron, £38, The Linen Works. Striped linen-blend apron, col Beige/Grey, £17.99, H&M Home. Natural washed linen luxury apron, £48, Linen Tales. Twine, stylist’s own.

NEXT MONTH CUSHIONS

FEATURE & STYLING HOLLY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHS DAN DUCHARS

T H I N G S T H AT M A K E U S G O O O H !

C O U N T RY T R E N D

Let’s talk...

MONOCHROME THE SWITCH-ON Artur crackle-glaze table lamp, H28xDia17cm, col Stone, £115; Zig-Zag shade, H20xDia30cm, col Black, £60, both Pooky.

You just can’t beat its timeless appeal. Monochrome means ‘one colour’ and refers to black and white, greyscale, or combinations of tones of a single colour. Perpetually re-imagined across fashion and interiors, with its power to suit any style, traditional or contemporary, this season sees the black and white palette softened across country schemes through a pared-back and rustic-Scandi approach to styling. Simplicity is key, with relaxed geometrics and organic silhouettes, tactile weaves and knits, and mood-enhancing ombré wallscapes that make a beautiful statement without being urban and harsh.

THE DINING MUST-HAVES Dansu serving plate, £20; side plate, £10; dip bowl, £9; tea towel, £10; napkin, £8, all Murmur.

LOVE THIS LOOK? THEN TRY… @ Warming up a monochromatic scheme THE SCATTERS Stanley Stripe cushion, 50x30cm, £38; Floraison cushion, 50cm sq, £55; both col Soot on Natural, Pillo.

THE FEATURE RUG

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS BACKGROUND: JOEL WALLPAPER COL WHITE/CREME/GOLD, £65 A ROLL, SANDBERG.

Monochrome rug, 175x 195cm, £1,150, Felt.

with natural accents – a pale timber floor and wooden furniture legs instantly add character and honest appeal. @ Adding another dimension of interest with pretty patterns on cushions, throws and rugs, or even with jigsaw-effect floor and wall tiles – stripes aren’t mandatory any more! @ Experimenting with contrast, scale and symmetry – think of your space in domino terms and balance light and dark pieces accordingly.

THE SEATING Twickenham snuggler, H87xW107xD92cm, col Harley Check Charcoal, £1,350, Laura Ashley.

NEXT MONTH AUTUMN TRENDS SPECIAL

THE TIMEPIECE Italian Roman numeral wall clock, Dia53cm, £85, Newgate Clocks

THE KITCHEN STATEMENT Glazed porcelain cuban tile collection, 22.3x22.3x1cm, £49.99 per m2, Gemini Tiles.

Country Homes & Interiors

M Y K I N D O F C O U N T RY

‘OUR SECLUDED WOODLAND RETREATS ARE HAVENS OF PEACE AND LUXURY’ Bryony Hancock, StarBed Hideaways

ryony Hancock and her husband Bertie’s bed and breakfast, Cider House, is on the National Trust Buckland Abbey Estate on Dartmoor. The couple have renovated the 13th-century property, set in beautiful gardens managed by the Trust, which they share with their children Bella, seven, and Oliver, four. In 2017, the couple realised a long-held ambition with the creation of StarBed Hideaways: two shepherd’s huts nestled in secluded copses on the Estate. We headed to Dartmoor to meet Bryony and her family – and discover the delights of sleeping under the stars… HOW DID YOU COME TO LIVE IN SUCH A BEAUTIFUL PLACE? Bertie and I had childhoods that revolved around the West Country and always knew this was where we wanted to settle. We were both working in education, but loved the idea of offering B&B hospitality and after a long search, in 2013 we came across Cider House. It was available on a long-term tenancy from the National Trust, and as soon as we walked on to the idyllic Estate, we knew it was the one for us. We embarked on a renovation – just a few days before Oliver was born! – and opened for business eight months later. 72

Country Homes & Interiors

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR THE STARBED HIDEAWAYS VENTURE? Previously, Bertie was a safari guide tasked with setting up tented camps in the Maasai Mara, and was keen to establish a stylish way of camping under the stars in the UK, which I thought sounded wonderful, too! Holidays are precious and every element of our business model has always centred on offering a completely unique experience. HOW DID YOU START BRINGING YOUR VISION TO LIFE? We’d always loved the secluded nooks at the top of the hill on the Estate, and thought how wonderful it would be for guests to immerse themselves in nature up there… but with the values and luxury of Cider House. We spent a long time considering all sorts of possibilities – from luxury tents and cabins to shepherd’s huts – but in the end we approached Blackdown Shepherd Huts based in Somerset with our blueprint to develop two bespoke retreats. WERE THERE ANY PLANNING CHALLENGES? It took nine months to get the project approved as we were building on historic land, but the practicalities demanded a lot of thought, too. The actual sites for both

A hamper of goodies, including biscuits, is prepared for guests.

Each Hideaway rests on cast-iron wheels and has oak cladding. Shown here is Halcyon.

Halcyon’s glass ceiling above the bed offers amazing night-sky views.

An abundance of produce in Bryony’s vegetable garden provides salad and more.

The StarBed Hideways are tucked amid the trees at the very top of the hill.

This handmade basin unit is ﬁnished with smart Kashmir White granite.

Pretty cottage ﬂowers are chosen by Bryony to give the StarBed Hideaways a burst of colour.

Guests – and provisions! – are transported up to the StarBed Hideaways.

In Halcyon, the roll-top bath from Royce Morgan is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Stiffkey Blue.

Each Hideaway has a handcrafted oak kitchen made by Blackdown Shepherd Huts. This one, in Aurora, is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Light Blue.

The Hideaways are actually two huts that have been joined. This one is Aurora.

I couldn’t live without...

‘NUMEROUS LISTS! I WRITE DOWN EVERYTHING ON COLOUR-CODED POST-IT NOTES, WHICH HELP TO KEEP ME FEELING SLIGHTLY MORE ORGANISED!’

The Cider House decor was overseen by interior designer Holly Keeling who also worked on the StarBed Hideaways.

Nearby Buckland Abbey, once home to Sir Francis Drake, dates back to the 13th century.

Country Homes & Interiors

Bryony and Bertie with Bella, seven, and Oliver, four, plus Gulliver the springer spaniel.

M Y K I N D O F C O U N T RY

Hideaways, which are 200 yards apart, are in two secluded copses and getting basic utilities installed, such as central heating, electricity and water, took a lot of planning. A friend of ours is a marine engineer and came up with very clever solutions. DESCRIBE THE HIDEAWAYS FOR US… We planned the identical layout of both to ensure a sense of flow. The footprint is formed by two huts joined together. The interior is open-plan inside, apart from the ‘loo with a view’, and it’s flooded with light because of the double doors and windows, the floor-to-ceiling glass wall panels installed where the two huts link, and not least, the dramatic curved glass ceiling above the bed. WHAT ABOUT THE DECOR? Each retreat has a handcrafted oak kitchen with a butler sink, cream wood-burning stove, generous up-lit roll-top bath and a limewashed king-size oak bed. Our interior designer friend Holly Keeling helped us with the decor, and we love her distinctive style, which instantly creates the wow factor.

FEATURE SHARON PARSONS PHOTOGRAPHS RICHARD GADSBY

HOW ARE YOUR GUESTS MADE TO FEEL AT HOME? There’s everything you’d expect in a luxury hotel, from fluffy towels and lovely toiletries to hot-water bottles and candles, but it’s practical, too. For instance, while the woodburner is really atmospheric, we didn’t want our guests to get back after a chilly day and have to wait for it to get going, so central heating was an essential. ARE THE HIDEAWAYS FULLY SELF CATERING? Absolutely! The galley kitchen has an oven, hob and a fridge and is stocked with tea, coffee and condiments. However, we don’t expect guests to slave over a hot stove. We have an honesty larder where guests can pick up supplies, and we can provide homemade dishes, ready to be heated up. And each StarBed has a Cobb barbecue. WHAT MAKES THE HIDEAWAYS SO SPECIAL? The fact that each one is completely private: guests are truly immersed in nature, and that is an amazing experience. We’ve positioned the decks outside to take in the stunning views and catch the morning sun, while at night, it’s

B RYO N Y ’S C O U N T RY V I B E What’s your favourite time of day? I love the early mornings when there is dew on the grass, but equally, that hour when the sun goes down is magical. What is your go-to late summer recipe? Apple and blackberry crumble, with ingredients picked from our hedgerows. What makes September so special? The quality of light combined with nature’s colours as they’re just about to turn. It feels calm after the height of summer… and the sea is warmer to swim in, too!

wonderful to light the firepit and appreciate the absolute peace – and, of course, the stars! WHAT’S NEXT WHEN IT COMES TO PLOTTING AND PLANNING? We’ve just bought what is currently a shed by the sea, and are planning to transform it… it will be magical and we can’t wait to get started! WHERE DO YOU ALWAYS TELL VISITORS TO GO? Not far away is the lovely market town of Tavistock, and of course there’s Dartmoor National Park, and the nearby beaches. To be honest, though, most of our guests are content to explore the 13th-century Abbey which was once the home of Sir Francis Drake, along with the beautiful gardens and the Estate. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL PLACE TO SHOP? Tavistock has a fabulous pannier market with over 60 different stalls and a farmers’ market every Saturday. I always make time to stop at Country Cheeses in Tiverton, which has the most incredible selection of local and national cheeses. WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO GO WHEN YOU HAVE SOME FREE TIME? There are so many wonderful places in this area, it’s hard to choose, but we especially love heading to Bantham beach towards the end of the day. We collect the children after school and go for a swim and a barbecue: we usually have the place to ourselves and it’s wonderful. ☎ StarBed Hideaways, 01822 259062, starbedhideaways.co.uk.

NEXT MONTH ROMY FRASER OF NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES

Country Homes & Interiors

The countr y decorator

SUMMER PLACE SETTINGS FROM BOTANICALS TO BLEACHED WOODS, STONEWASHED COTTONS AND SMART STRIPES, HERE’S HOW TO MAKE TABLES LOOK LOVELY

1 Evoke the holiday feeling and take your

M E D I T E R RA N E A N M O M E N T

Similar washed linen napkin, col Dusky Green, £3.99, H&M Home.

inspiration from the colours and textures of the Mediterranean coast, with a table setting that combines dusky sea greens, brilliant whites, bleached woods and pebble tones. Knot a pretty napkin and place on top of a wooden platter that’s perfect for serving up antipasti, then position on top of a dinner plate. Continue the Mediterranean theme by tucking each name card under a fresh fig that guests can eat with their appetiser.

Similar napkin, Bobbi, £26 for four, Anthropologie.

DESIGN SECRETS

2 Create a relaxed look that’s perfect for laidback M AT E R I A L M AT T E R S

Similar cabbage dinner plate, £45 for 4, Oka.

entertaining by introducing texture and joyful colour. A woven raffia placemat is hardwearing and practical, and instantly injects a holiday feel. Opt for a circular design to mirror the shape of the plate and choose one with an outer band of colour for extra definition. Team with stonewashed napkins tied with leather string for added texture.

3 Follow the trend for cabbageware with leafB E AU T I F U L B O TA N I C S

green china. Intersperse it with white dinnerware – preferably with a leaf pattern to continue the botanical theme – to keep the look light, fresh and summery. Introduce a pretty touch with foliagepatterned glassware, then team with a crisp white linen napkin. Add an authentic finishing touch with a freshly picked fern leaf on the side plate.

S M A RT S T R I P E S

4 ‘For summer we’ve taken a much-loved

icon – our beautiful white Artisan stoneware collection – and updated it with a chic new grey glaze,’ says Chrissie Rucker, founder of The White Company. The tableware pairs perfectly with the new striped napkins and a white tablecloth. For a special touch, finish the settings with napkins folded into cutlery pouches.

Plate, £12; bowl, £12; napkins, £25 for four; placemat, £16 for two, all The White Company.

Country Homes & Interiors

Linea dinnerware, from £6; grey Junipa Ella napkin, from £15; Gray & Willow Alta cutlery set, £45, all House of Fraser.

Similar paper bags, £2.50 for 10, Party Ark.

5 Serve up a taste of summer and create a crafted

SET THE SCENE

feel that sets the scene for the feast to come. Use a rustic kraft paper bag with a pretty polka dot design to store guests’ napkins, as well as a trio of breadsticks for them to snack on. Then whet their appetites with a summer menu written on kraft paper – attach it to the polka dot bag with a wooden peg for a charming, homespun look.

6 Be inspired by a coastal palette and the texture

of cool linens. ‘The look and feel of a life beside the sea provides our team with endless inspiration,’ says Lois Vincent, home designer at House of Fraser. ‘This season, texture and colour are wonderfully restful. Look out for weathered and raw finishes, too.’ Add a lemon to each setting – the aroma will get guests in a summer holiday mindset.

7 Platter, £68; plate, £16; side plate, £12; bowl, £12, all Anthropologie at John Lewis.

Country Homes & Interiors

F I E S TA F E E L

Choose textured stoneware to create the perfect outdoor place setting and team with a softly scented foliage sprig to bring nature to the forefront. ‘There is nothing better than eating alfresco on a warm summer’s day,’ says Nicola Hattersley, table top buyer at John Lewis. ‘The soft blue and turquoise hues of this tableware work perfectly for a casual outdoor setting.’

NEXT MONTH MURALS

FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS PHOTOGRAPHS (1, 2, 3, 5) TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

SA LT -WA S H E D H U E S

DESIGN SECRETS

M I X A N D M AT C H

8 Combine stripes in various colours

and proportions with denims for a relaxed country feel. ‘Add a little greenery where you can to the table when you eat outside,’ says Kristina Lindhe, CEO and creative director at Lexington. ‘Herbs are perfect to put on the table, both for decoration and for guests to add extra flavour to their food or drinks. Finish the setting with straw napkin rings to complement the greenery of the fresh herbs.’

Dinner plate, £25; napkins, £10 each; cutlery, £15 a piece; napkin ring, £8; wine glasses, £16 each; tumbler, £12; tablecloth, £79, all Lexington.

LU X U RY R I V E R C RU I S E S

The Douro, Porto & Salamanca

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland

Departures up to November 2018 and April to November 2019. Eight days from only £1,299pp. Price includes: Guided tour of Porto with visit to Port Wine cellars Scenic cruising through the Douro Valley Enjoy a full day excursion to Salamanca with guided tour and Tour of the medieval village of Castelo Flamenco show Rodrigo Guided tour of Mateus Palace and gardens Enjoy dinner at a typical Portuguese quinta Visit to Lamego and its Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies church All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your day of departure, including welcome cocktails and dinner, plus the Captain’s Dinner Return flights from a selection of regional airports Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, all with river views Services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and tour manager

Departures up to October 2018 and April to October 2019. Eight days from only £1,299pp. Price includes: Explore medieval Koblenz Visit to the town of Rüdesheim Cruise through the spectacular Rhine An evening in Speyer Guided tour of Strasbourg Gorge Visit to the old walled town of Breisach Tour of the beautiful Black Forest and lakeside town of Titisee See the Jungfrau and the Eiger, Interlaken and the lakeside town of Lucerne All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your day of departure, plus the Captain’s Dinner Return flights from a selection of regional airports or standard class seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras International Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, all with river view Services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and tour manager

Budapest to The Black Sea

Burgundy, River Rhône & Provence

Departures from April to September 2019. Fifteen days from only £2,499pp. Price includes: See Kalocsa cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace and Paprika Museum Guided tours of historic Pecs, Bucharest, Novi Sad, Belgrade and Budapest Take a scenic drive into the ‘Puszta’ and watch a performance by some of the regions most skilled horsemen Cruise through the Iron Gates Gorge and pass through the Djerdap locks Visits to Pleven, Lepenski Vir and Veliko Tarnovo, the village of Arbanassi and its ancient Church of the Nativity Visit Constanta on the Black Sea Return flights from a selection of regional airports Fourteen nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, all with river view All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your day of departure (except one lunch), including welcome cocktails and dinner, plus the Captain’s Dinner Services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and tour manager

Departures up to October 2018 and April to October 2019. Eight days from only £1,199pp. Price includes: Visit to Beaune, centre of the Burgundy wine region and wine tasting Cruise the spectacular Rhône valley Guided tour of Lyon, second city of France and its gastronomic capital Visit to charming Vienne Tour of the astonishing Ardèche Gorges Guided tour of Arles home of Vincent Van Gogh Visit to the Pont du Gard Tour of medieval Avignon and the Pope’s Palace All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your day of departure, including welcome cocktails and dinner, plus the Captain’s Dinner Return flights from a selection of regional airports or standard class seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras International Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, all with river view Services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and tour manager

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To book or request a brochure, call 01283 523454 or visit cohriviera.co.uk Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd. ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Country Homes & Interiors, published by TI Media Ltd. Prices correct at time of print.

BACKGROUND PANTHER MEDIA GMBH / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Dreamy

master bedrooms TAKE YOUR SLEEPING QUARTERS TO NEXT-LEVEL LUXURY WITH WALK-IN WARDROBES, SUMPTUOUS SHOWERS AND COSY PLACES TO CURL UP IN. WE REVEAL FIVE-STAR DESIGN IDEAS WITH CLASSIC COUNTRY-STYLE CREDENTIALS Â»

Country Homes & Interiors

Bedspread in Contessa Paisley Moon, £255m; blind in Mali Acacia, £113m, De Le Cuona. Laurel mirror, £1,668, Porta Romana. Console table, £1,591, Chelsea Textiles. Design by Salvesen Graham.

CH&I

LOVES

Similar round oak Scandi mirror, £150, John Lewis

Walk this way ’If you have limited space, but like the idea of a walk-in wardrobe, then a walk-through wardrobe is a great alternative and a clever way of utilising the room you have,’ says Nicole Salvesen, founder of Salvesen Graham. ‘Using mirrored wardrobe doors will make the room feel larger, provide great light and also enable you to see yourself from all angles when deciding on your outfit!’ Fitting pocket doors to the bedroom will also save space and prevent the wardrobe doors from clashing. 82

Country Homes & Interiors

BEDROOM SPECIAL

Similar Newlands bedroom furniture in Porcelain Nature, £6,000, Daval Furniture.

Dress and make up A walk-in vanity area is the last word in luxury. Maximise the opportunity to pamper and preen by choosing a beautiful dressing table with open shelving to display family photos and pretty ceramics. ‘Allow as much space as possible around your dressing table so that you can sit in comfort, without feeling crowded,’ advises Simon Bodsworth, managing director, Daval. ‘Strategically placed lighting at eye-level will make all the difference when applying make-up. Also consider flexible LED strip lights under shelves and cornicing to provide soft mood lighting in the evening.’

Country Homes & Interiors

BEDROOM SPECIAL

Similar bed, Brooklyn oak four poster, £920, Turnbull & Thomas. Wool rug, £157sq m, Crucial Trading. Design by Jill Stein Interiors and Cornish Interiors.

Classic looks When it comes to decorating your main bedroom, avoid clichéd themes that will date quickly. Instead, start with a paredback natural palette and build layers of personality with artwork and accessories. The bedroom in this beach-front property, designed by Jill Stein Interiors and Cornish Interiors, channels coastal chic without a nautical stripe in sight. The contemporary four-poster bed offers clean lines, while coral motif fabrics and prints by local artists add bursts of colour.

Go open plan A similar open-plan bedroom, dressing room and shower room designed by Cave Interiors would cost around £25,000.

Country Homes & Interiors

Master bedroom suites that incorporate sleeping, dressing and bathing facilities in one interconnected space are de rigueur in hotel suites. To recreate this five-star experience, opt for an open-plan shower room with walk-through dressing room. ‘Going open plan will help with light flow but do maintain a sense of privacy,’ says Georgina Cave, interior designer and director of Cave Interiors. ‘In this case we created a vanity unit against a dividing wall that discreetly hides the WC.’

Get to work If you’re blessed with a spacious bedroom, make it work harder by incorporating additional functions that take it beyond sleeping and dressing. ‘Before we start developing the aesthetic, we always discuss the owners’ lifestyle and needs, to build up a picture of how the room can be used,’ explains Gemma Holsgrove, associate designer, Sims Hilditch. The large proportions and wonderful natural light in this master bedroom easily accommodates a quiet office area that’s perfect for catching up with correspondence undisturbed. A drop-down desk means paperwork can be shut away when it’s time to unwind.

Secretaire, £3,852, Chelsea Textiles. Cotswold herringbone throw, £120, Neptune. Emperors Garden Oriental Tree wallpaper, £98 for a 10m roll, GP&J Baker. Design by Sims Hilditch.

Room to relax If you have enough space in your bedroom, a comfortable sofa will help to create a more multi-functional scheme. ‘Aim for a calming palette with the occasional element of detail,’ suggests interior designer Stephanie Dunning of Dunning & Everard. ‘Here, the antique side chair, cushions and decorative round table provide interest as well as a sense of serenity that makes it a place to escape to.’

A similar bedroom by Dunning & Everard would cost around £16,300. Large Pasteur lamps, £1,434 each, Porta Romana.

Country Homes & Interiors

BEDROOM SPECIAL

Hidden away A well-designed wardrobe interior is paramount when planning any bedroom, but even more so if the room is shared. ‘Start by working out what type of storage is required. Large open hanging rails and spacious drawers should take care of the bulk of clothing but also look at integrated laundry baskets, tie racks and shoe carousels to achieve the ultimate in well-thought-out storage,’ says Cari Bateman, senior designer at Neville Johnson. ‘To achieve timeless country style on the outside, go for a mix of natural wood and glass.’

The Traditional Oak bedroom range by Neville Johnson starts from £3,600.

Country Homes & Interiors

BEDROOM SPECIAL

8 Bath, £3,040, Victoria & Albert.

In the zone ‘Large bedrooms can actually feel a little cavernous and unfriendly. Breaking up the space into distinct areas can prove cosier and more inviting,’ says John Evans, director of John Evans Design. Here, a dressing area behind the headboard helps to utilise the full length of the room, bringing the bed and bath closer to the garden views. ‘Stealing bedroom space to create his-and-her bathrooms or dressing rooms is a big trend at the moment,’ adds John.

Bathing belle An elegant bath at the foot of the bed can prove incredibly soothing. ‘We recommend speaking to your builder or plumber first about the technicalities,’ says Jonathan Carter, Marketing Director, Victoria & Albert. ‘Extraction is key, and choosing a bath with a void in the base to accommodate the waste, helps avoid some of the issues associated with flooring.’ Also keep electrical sockets away from the bath, and don’t forget to provide a place for the shampoo while you’re in the tub. 88

Country Homes & Interiors

NEXT MONTH PANTRIES

FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHS (JOHN EVANS DESIGN) BILLY BOLTON; (CORNISH INTERIORS) MARK ASHBEE/SIMON ESCAPES SIMONESCAPES.COM; (ROSELIND WILSON DESIGN) RICHARD WAITE; (DUNNING & EVERARD) DAVID PARMITER; (SIMS HILDITCH) POLLY ELTES; (CAVE INTERIORS) LUCA PIFFARETTI

Bedroom by John Evans Design. Usk Bateau cast-iron bath, £5,460; Mull Classic bath taps and H-stand, £2,664; all Drummonds.

Similar bespoke wardrobes in ash veneer would cost around £34,000, including the ladder; light pendant, £1,470, all Roselind Wilson Design.

Take it to the top Removing the bedroom ceiling and using the space right up to the eaves is a good option. ‘This dressing area that sits alongside the master bedroom achieves maximum storage by taking fitted joinery into the roof apex,’ explains Roselind Wilson, owner and creative director of Roselind Wilson Design. ‘Vertical and horizontal inlays and antique brass handles make the wardrobes feel part of the architecture, while the library-style ladder is super useful.’

reasons to love LARDERS

GET ORGANISED WITH OUR ROUND-UP OF PANTRY UNITS, SMART ON THE OUTSIDE, AND OH-SO CLEVER STORAGE SOLUTIONS WITHIN

Country Homes & Interiors

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Striking storage

This smart cookie includes a wine rack for your favourite tipples, handy door storage for baking trays or cereal and a lower crate that’ll keep root veg cool, dry and away from sunlight. Westcote Blue narrow larder with oak crate, H186.5xW74.5xD59.5cm, £799, The Cotswold Company.

M O D E R N C O U N T RY C L A S S I C S

Patterns and prints

With cubbyholes galore for foodstuffs and bottles, this raw and authentic individual moves easily on its castors. Farmers solid mango wood larder, H183xW98xD50cm, £1,369, Maisons du Monde.

Farmhouse feel

Vintage-style bronze knobs and shutter-effect doors ooze charm on this beached timber larder, handmade from reclaimed fir. Super Sucre larder, H185xW108 xD50cm, £1,145, Loaf.

Pared-back simplicity

Shaker-influenced with a seasonal palette update and a world of adjustable storage. Suffolk bi-fold larder painted in Old Rose, H216xW135 xD56cm, £4,725 (quartz worktop £440), Neptune.

Seamless fit

Timeless quality

Maintain a tidy kitchen with this tall and mighty hero, which features individual drawer labels for neat fanatics, a marble counter and a light that turns on as the doors are opened – genius! Croft Collection Montrose larder unit, H207xW120xD60cm, £2,500, John Lewis.

Made using traditional craftsmanship, this piece is so versatile – there’s even a blackboard inside to jot down your shopping list! Milton oak pantry, H183xW125xD65cm, £2,000, Laura Ashley.

Earthy muse

Keep your chutney jars stacked up all season long with this functional piece of high-end design in a colourful finish. New England double larder, H212xW100xD45cm, col Kiln Brick Red, £1,241, Mudd & Co.

Open-plan guest

Give crockery and much more a wonderful home in this sturdy style icon, complete with contrasting oak interior. Eskdale larder unit, H190xW100xD57cm, col Linen, £999, Barker and Stonehouse.

Country chic

Crafted with natural oak tops and finished with a low-sheen lacquer for added durability, this timeless addition will complement any rustic kitchen. Padstow larder, H209xW127.5xD64cm, col Putty, £1,799, Marks & Spencer.

Country Homes & Interiors

Discover feel-good

FLOORING UNLOCK THE SECRETS OF PATTERN AND TREAD SOFTLY ON CARPET. HERE’S A ROLL-OUT OF THE LATEST TEMPTING DESIGNS CHOICES ARE NO LONGER LIMITED TO SUBDUED PLAINS OR STRIKING PATTERNS. ‘Patterned carpet

is having a revival and we are looking towards brighter shades of pale, with more pretty pastels and gelato colours,’ says Lorna Haigh, creative and marketing director, Alternative Flooring. ‘Pink is still very popular. Our Capello Shell Coral is a way to bring a bit of a blush to floors.’ For plains in country colours, consider the seven new colourways in Ulster Carpets’ York Wilton. Inspired by natural elements, the range of soft greys to blues includes the evocatively named Orkney and Shetland. TEXTURE IS NEVER FAR FROM COUNTRY DECORATORS’ THOUGHTS and Brintons’ new

Perpetual Textures range, influenced by chenille, corded and tweed fabrics, takes a modern approach to nostalgic prints, and comes in subtle, discreet colours. CARPETS ARE PRODUCED IN DIFFERENT WAYS.

Traditional loom weaving produces Axminster and Wilton carpets, while low-loop Brussels and Jacquard carpets are also woven. Tufted carpet, made by punching yarn into a woven backing before applying a backing fabric, is the alternative and cheaper method. TWIST-PILE CARPETS ARE HARDWEARING AND COARSE-TEXTURED. Smooth velvet appears luxurious,

although it does show marks more readily. Saxony carpet’s deep pile is prone to flattening, while berber-style loop piles are tough and resilient; do be aware that pets’ claws may snag them. ALL-WOOL CARPETS ARE A GREAT CHOICE. Wool is

warm, soft, environmentally friendly and naturally springy. Nylon is often added to increase durability. 92

Country Homes & Interiors

Malvern Pure Wool carpet, £46sq m, Sisal & Seagrass.

ROOM ELEMENTS

Patch 8995 carpet, 75% polyamide/15% PE/10% cotton, £85sq m, Haute Couture Collection, Louis De Poortere.

2 High style

Only natural

‘The colours of this lively striped design, based on natural shades of sheep wool, are also available as plain carpet, so that a busy hallway can lead effortlessly onto co-ordinating carpet in an adjoining living room or bedroom,’ says Guy Gibbon, director, Sisal & Seagrass. ‘Our Pure Wool collection is made without any dyes, chemicals or pesticides. The wool is sourced from farms within 100 miles of the factory in the Cumbrian countryside, giving the carpet a very low carbon footprint.’

Innovative ways with yarn and weave join forces for a flatweave carpet with a new look. ‘This durable cotton/ polyamide carpet uses a glossy yarn with a subtle shimmer to emphasise key areas of the design,’ says Alan Russell, sales director, Louis De Poortere. ‘There are six unique looks to choose from, each one an intricate pattern designed for wall-to-wall colour. They’re produced using the Jacquard flatweave method of manufacture, which is the hallmark of exceptional quality.’

DESIGN TIP ENSURE A SEAMLESS DOORWAY TRANSITION FROM CARPET TO HARD FLOORING BY FITTING A TRIM IN A STYLE TO SUIT YOUR HOME. STAIRRODS UK (01207 791176; STAIRRODS.CO.UK) MAKES TRIMS IN BRASS, BRONZE, CHROME, PEWTER AND POLISHED NICKEL FINISHES.

Country Homes & Interiors

Columbus Mosaic Floral carpet, 100% polypropylene, £30sq m, Carpetright.

Country Homes & Interiors

3 Gentle geometry

A stylised flower adds softness to this repeat design. ‘It creates an impact without being overtly flowery,’ says Jemma Dayman, buyer, Carpetright. ‘Carpets that feature florals in a geometric pattern are eye-catching and can add a formal note while remaining stylishly understated. Teaming this muted flooring with accessories and furnishings in similar subtle shades will tie the look together and ensure it remains on trend for years to come.’

ROOM ELEMENTS

3 OF THE BEST...

Cordless vacuums

JUST THE THING FOR A QUICK CLEAN, AND NO CORD TO TRIP YOU UP The most powerful suction of any cord-free machine, with a motor spinning 2,000 times a second and a clever ‘point and shoot’ feature to cleanly empty the bin. Cyclone V10, from £400, Dyson.

It will clean for up to 60 minutes and if you run out of charge, the battery can be quickly exchanged for one from another Bosch appliance. Unlimited Premium White cordless vacuum cleaner, 18V, BCS122GB, £450, Bosch.

Capello Shell Coral carpet, 80% wool/20% nylon, £149sq m, Liberty Fabrics Quirky B range, Alternative Flooring.

4 Restful shade

‘We wanted to bring Liberty fabrics to floors as carpets for the first time,’ says Lorna Haigh, creative and marketing director, Alternative Flooring. ‘Inspired by The Secret Garden, written by Frances Hodgson Burnett in 1911, Capello Shell in this pastel pink-coral shade is a very relaxing pattern to have in the bedroom. It is one of four famous Liberty prints we have woven on state-of-the-art Axminster looms in Wilton; supporting British design was a key factor in launching these patterns.’

This nifty cleaner converts to a handheld model to reach awkward corners. A Smart Control informs how much power is left. Blade 32V cordless vacuum cleaner, TBT3V1T1, £220, Vax.

5 On repeat

Isochrone carpet, 80% wool/20% nylon, £60sq m, Perpetual Textures range, Brintons.

‘We’ve called this carpet Isochrone – the term refers to equal intervals of time – and we used this idea as our inspiration for an interlocking key pattern that adds depth and interest to the floor,’ says Jodie Hatton, creative designer, Brintons. ‘Grey is a popular colour at the moment as it is a great companion to other neutral shades yet also has the power to balance out bold accent colours or work with this season’s on-trend pastel tones.’

Country Homes & Interiors

ROOM ELEMENTS

Pebble effect

Taking its cue from the shades of pebbles picked up on the beach or spotted in rockpools on a breezy day, this carpet has an understated pattern with a hint of coastal design. More subtle than a rigid geometric pattern, it shifts from pale to dark. ‘The tonal pattern is ideal for creating an elegant entrance, and would lift any room,’ says Gary Bridge, design director, Axminster Carpets. ‘Made from 100% wool, it has a luxurious feel underfoot.’

DESIGN TIP FIND ADVICE ON CHOOSING CARPET AND UNDERLAY, FIBRES AND STYLES, AND LOCAL RETAILERS AT THE CARPET FOUNDATION (01562 755568; Rockpooling carpet in Pebble, 100% wool, £88sq m, Hazy Days collection, Axminster Carpets.

There’s something inherently pleasing about the repetitive rhythm of this carpet. ‘It offers an interesting weave, which provides a contemporary edge to a classic design,’ says Emma Hopkins, marketing manager, Crucial Trading. ‘In a unique blend of wool and strong, hardwearing sisal, the flooring combines softness with resilience, so it is ideal for highertraffic areas and is particularly suitable for country living.’

MEMBERS FOLLOW A CODE OF PRACTICE TO PROTECT CONSUMERS.

Sisool Twine Blend carpet, 70% wool/20% sisal/ 10% jute, £120sq m, Crucial Trading.

FEATURE CAROLINE RODRIGUES

7 Beautifully balanced

CARPETFOUNDATION.COM);

A subtly patterned look is achieved with the weave of the carpet, which produces tonal variation with its highlights and shadow. 96

Country Homes & Interiors

NEXT MONTH DOOR FURNITURE

HOME TECH

quality

AIR PURIFIERS BREATHE EASY AT HOME WITH OUR PICK OF THE BEST APPLIANCES DESIGNED TO CREATE A HEALTHIER ENVIRONMENT

1Best for…

Falmec Bellaria, £850, falmec.co.uk

MULTIPURPOSE PURIFICATION

Pure Cool Link Tower, £499.99, Dyson This impressive appliance (H101.8x W19.6x D19.6cm) can cool huge open-plan rooms as well as purify the air. A built-in sensor monitors air quality and sends you alerts via the smartphone app, so you know when you need to turn it on, and when you do, a large HEPA filter eliminates 99.95% of harmful airborne particles, while a carbon filter gets rid of odours and toxins. The Quietmark approved fan is almost silent and while extremely effective, it won’t send your paperwork flying like a traditional desk fan.

2 Best for…

Allergies affect 44% of British adults, and even country-dwellers can have indoor air-quality issues. Ventilate your home to lower carbon dioxide levels, limit humidity and reduce mould growth. Regular cleaning will reduce dust particles and, for a deep

clean, a hi-tech air purifier can make a big difference. Check the model has enough power to clean a large room and look for high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which capture ultra-fine particles. Look for the quietest (dB) model to use at night.

DID YOU KNOW? STUDIES SHOW THAT MANY AIR FRESHENERS CONTAIN PHTHALATES, WHICH CAN AGGRAVATE ASTHMA, DISRUPT KIDS’ HORMONE FUNCTION AND EVEN INTERFERE WITH REPRODUCTIVE DEVELOPMENT.* 98

Country Homes & Interiors

3 Best for…

GREAT VALUE CLEANING

Pure Air 300, £279.96, Vax If you’re looking for a budget air purifier, this elegant cylindrical design (H76xD32xW32cm) can purify a whopping 120sq m, eliminating 99.97% of allergens. It’s especially good at dealing with smoke and pollen, and while not the smallest of designs available, it boasts five speeds, and an extra-quiet sleep mode. Despite its low price, this model also has Smart Sensors that continually monitor the air quality then adjust the filtration speed as and when you need it.

NEXT MONTH CLEVER KETTLES

FEATURE CHRIS HASLAM * HTTPS://WWW.RCPLONDON.AC.UK/PROJECTS/ OUTPUTS/EVERY-BREATH-WE-TAKE-LIFELONG-IMPACT-AIR-POLLUTION

AUTOMATIC FILTRATION

Blueair Sense+, £459, Blueair.com This stylish air purifier (49.2x47x17cm) is suitable for rooms up to 18sq m and will remove 99% of allergens, especially smoke, dust and pollen. It’s whisper quiet and connects to your wi-fi for easy remote control, but if you buy the Blueair Aware indoor air-quality monitor (£209), the two devices can work together, adjusting the fan speed and purification rates depending on levels of VOC, particulate matter, CO2 and temperature.

CHOSEN BY US FOR YOU Ledbury tiles, £34.95sq m

Tusk Geo wall tiles, £39.95sq m; Light Oak ﬂoor tiles, £44.95sq m

SAVE 15% AT

Walls and Floors ACHIEVE FANTASTIC FLOORS AND WONDERFUL WALLS WITH THIS EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT ON THE GORGEOUS RANGE OF TILES AT WALLS AND FLOORS

eading tile specialists Walls and Floors is offering Country Homes & Interiors readers 15% off its range of tiles. Established in 1987, Walls and Floors has grown to become one of the UK’s most trusted tile specialists. With a collection of 6,000 stylish designs, it has everything you need to achieve your dream scheme. With designs now available that tie in with the latest interior design trends, tiles need no longer be limited to kitchens or bathrooms. Now, they can be used to transform spaces throughout your home and garden. Whether you’re introducing encaustic effect pattern

tiles into your hall, luxurious marble designs into your bathroom, or rustic country metro styles in the kitchen, Walls and Floors has the perfect option for your project. To get a closer look at a particular tile, you can order a full size sample, which will be refunded when you place a full order. Full orders over £99 come with fast free delivery.

r How to claim 15% discount: Visit wallsandfloors.co.uk and enter code COUNTRY15 at the checkout, present this page in store, or quote code when you order over the phone by calling 01536 314730.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Offer is valid from 2 August until 31 December 2018. 15% off is valid on full price Walls & Floors products. Offer excludes star buys, clearance and Outlet products. Easy returns on unopened boxes will be refunded at the discounted price paid. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.

Country Homes & Interiors

WORD OF MOUTH

COUNTRY GOINGS ON

The Temperate House at Kew Gardens IN THIS NEW SERIES, WE SEEK OUT UNIQUE EVENTS AND LAUNCHES, AND MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THEM

valuable plants – some date back to when the structure was built. A lot of the work was about bringing 21st century technology inside, increasing light and ventilation and creating an automatic way for the windows to open in response to the temperature. HOW WERE THE PLANTS AFFECTED BY THE PROJECT? The process of dealing with the plants was incredibly stressful. A big question was whether to leave some plants in situ or to take them out. A few palms and cycads were left in during the project and while some survived, some didn’t. There’s a risk in lifting these plants and there’s also a risk with leaving them in, so we propagated as much as possible to mitigate the risk of losing plants. There’s a cycad in particular called Encephalartos woodii, which was brought over from Southern Africa in 1899 and is now extinct in the wild. We weren’t able to propagate this plant, but we successfully lifted it, and it’s now back in the building.

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THIS PROJECT? I have an archaeology degree, and then I studied at Kew itself for a diploma in horticulture, so the Temperate House was a unique marriage of my two passions. It was the second of the great glasshouses designed by Decimus Burton, following the Palm House. Building began in 1859, and it opened in 1863. WHAT DID YOUR JOB INVOLVE? At Kew everyone is very specialist and I was the link between the heritage and horticulture teams. It was such a unique project – we’d set the design brief right at the start, with a survey listing the parts needing to be repaired. But the reality was, when we began stripping paint and looking at the building in detail, there was about an extra third of additional work that needed to be done.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE TEMPERATE HOUSE? Now that it’s open again, the most amazing place to stand is on the walkway that goes around the top of the centre block – it’s so enormous, you could hold the entire Palm House in there. Up there, you look down on the landscape and really get a sense of the scale of it. In the summer, since the doors and windows are open, birds and animals come in and between them and the trickling streams, there’s a natural soundscape and it becomes a natural experience in its own way.

WHAT DID YOU FIND MOST EXCITING ABOUT THE RESTORATION? What I find incredibly interesting about the Temperate House is that it’s part of the history of Kew, but it’s still a working building. It houses

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond TW9 3AE, 020 8332 5655, kew.org. 100

Country Homes & Interiors

FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT PHOTOGRAPHS JEFF EDEN RBG KEW; GARETH GARDENER, RBG KEW

he Temperate House at Kew Gardens, the largest surviving Victorian glasshouse, has recently reopened after five years of restoration. We headed to the Royal Botanic Gardens to speak with the Project Co-ordinator Georgina Darroch to find out more about this unique enterprise...

Spiral stairs lead to the walkway above.

‘IT NEEDED TO BE NOT ONLY A HISTORICAL MONUMENT, BUT ALSO A PRACTICAL SPACE TO HOUSE AND GROW RARE PLANTS’ The rooftop walkway looks over the lush centre block.

The Temperate House was the second of the great glasshouses at Kew designed by Decimus Burton.

A 155-year-old cycad was carefully moved back into the Temperate House.

The main water feature creates a natural soundscape.

Yew buttresses stand behind densely planted borders featuring many autumn-ďŹ&#x201A;owering varieties on the south side of Upper Tan House.

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Country Homes & Interiors

HEREFORDSHIRE GARDEN

Border lines CAROLINE AND JAMES WEYMOUTH HAVE BLURRED THE BOUNDARIES OF THEIR COLOURFUL GARDEN SO IT BLENDS SEAMLESSLY INTO ITS PASTORAL SETTING

A gravel path runs between borders overﬂowing with plants, including Hesperantha coccinea ‘Major’, asters, hydrangeas, Eupatorium purpureum and Japanese anemones.

AT HOME WITH... Owners Caroline and James Weymouth live here with their two dogs, Merlin the Cairn terrier and Archie the cocker spaniel.

House Stone- and brick-built house with barn dating to 1600. Garden features Informal south-facing country garden with densely planted terraces, a formal vegetable garden, wildﬂower meadow and brook.

the end of a narrow track in Stansbatch, near the Welsh border in Herefordshire, stands Upper Tan House, home to Caroline and James Weymouth, their two dogs Merlin and Archie and a garden that blends seamlessly into its pastoral setting beneath wooded Wapley Hill Iron Age fort. Since it was built in around 1600, the handsome stone house with attached barn has been a tannery, malt house and even a temperance hall before becoming a farmhouse, and by the time the couple viewed it on a February day in 1996, it was a building badly in need of help. ‘Caroline saw the potential,’ says James, who was concerned at the amount of work needed on the house, though the garden and surrounding land fitted the bill exactly. ‘We wanted to make a garden, and this was south-facing, the right size and had a brook running through it so there was plenty of scope,’ says Caroline. ‘We moved here from London and had always gardened in cities before so we had to learn how to garden in a landscape,’ says Caroline. Fortunately, we own some of the adjoining land so we can control it to a degree.’ The garden was largely a blank slate when they arrived, though as it had been used to grow vegetables and cut flowers over decades, perhaps centuries, they inherited a deep, fertile topsoil from repeated applications of manure. Gradually, Caroline formed the idea of terracing the south-facing slope in front of the house. ‘I liked the idea of having a profusion of plants tumbling down the slope so that at certain angles you can’t even see the paths.’ Over five years the couple worked their way around the house laying out borders, paths, lawns and a naturalistic pond until it had evolved to its present form and extended its southern boundary to include the sloping meadow

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HEREFORDSHIRE GARDEN

A roofed seat beside the banks of the Stansbatch brook.

Hesperantha coccinea ‘Major’ injects a splash of strong colour.

Begonia grandis subsp. evansiana and Gladiolus murielae in pots on the terrace.

What we love most about this garden… ‘The changes that the different seasons bring. You never quite know what you’re going to get next’

The Stansbatch brook is fringed with ferns and Darmera peltata.

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The herb garden beside the greenhouse is planted with sage, rosemary, thyme and chives.

on the opposite side of the Stansbatch brook, nowadays host to a spectacular display of wild orchids in summer. Towards the edges of the garden, areas of transition between garden and countryside, Caroline chooses plants carefully, favouring those with a natural feel like hellebores, ferns and persicarias rather than delphiniums or dahlias. A few wild plants are allowed to encroach on the lawn, too, another way of meshing the garden into its environment and an echo of the tussocky meadow beyond the brook. Steel estate fencing that has been allowed to rust to a natural look lightly traces the edge of the garden so that it seems to flow in and out of its surroundings. One of the downsides of having a garden so open to its rural setting is the occasional incursion of cattle, sheep and even the local hunt. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Weeds invade because thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no solid barrier. We work hard to keep them out of the main borders, but nearer the edge of the garden we might allow some to stay, especially if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re pretty like red campion, for instance,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; explains Caroline. The couple have planted hundreds of trees on the 20 acres that surround the garden, including a small orchard of apples on the north side of the house that features old local varieties such as Stoke Edith Pippin and Doctor Hares. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We chose varieties that would be ready for eating over a long period, so in most years we can each eat one of our own apples a day until June.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Directly outside the kitchen door, a wide gravelled terrace hosts an elegant arrangement of predominantly green and silver foliage plants in containers, including Melianthus major, ancient conifer Wollemia nobilis and striped Phormium â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Yellow Waveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Big yew

Âť

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Modern Country Classic

Succulents Enjoy the striking shapes, textures and colours in a potted display. Ĺ&#x2DC; 6XFFXOHQWV VWRUH ZDWHU LQ WKHLU OHDYHV 6HPSHUYLYXPV DQG VHGXPV are hardy whereas aeoniums, agaves and echeverias are tender so have to be over-wintered inside. Ĺ&#x2DC; &RQWDLQHUV QHHG GUDLQDJH KROHV as succulents will not tolerate waterlogging. Try bowls, vintage biscuit tins or even colanders. Ĺ&#x2DC; 8VH D JULWW\ IUHH GUDLQLQJ compost, and top dress with a mulch of horticultural grit to keep the collar of the plant dry. Ĺ&#x2DC; 6XFFXOHQWV GR EHVW LQ D VXQQ\ spot. Repot into fresh compost every year. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need feeding, just water sparingly through the growing season. Ĺ&#x2DC; )RU YDULHW\ PL[ URVHWWH IRUPLQJ succulents like blue-green Echeveria elegans with tree forms such as Crassula ovata.

HEREFORDSHIRE GARDEN The decorative vegetable garden features gravel paths, clipped box and produce including climbing beans, kale, sweetcorn, salad leaves, squashes and leeks.

What makes this garden so special... ‘It’s in an idyllic corner of Herefordshire and we try to blend the garden into the magic of its setting with careful plant choices’

A clipped hornbeam stands on a lawn surrounded by beds of autumn-ﬂowering plants, including asters and hydrangeas.

buttresses edge the terrace, giving a sense of enclosure while allowing views through to the wider garden. Caroline feels that some clipped forms are needed, even in such a natural setting, to ‘anchor the house into the garden’. From the lawn, 18 feet below the terrace, plants appear piled on top of each other in mounds of purple, yellow, red and violet, in a glorious celebration of the season. Towering perennials, including wine-red Eupatorium maculatum (Atropurpureum Group) ‘Riesenschirm’ and golden-yellow Rudbeckia laciniata ‘Herbstsonne’ flower above bold clumps of Michaelmas daisies, such as compact Aster × frikartii ‘Wunder von Stäfa’ and longflowering Symphyotrichum ‘Primrose Path’. ‘I think autumn light has a clarity about it that can take strong, punchy colours,’ says Caroline. ‘I particularly love the red Hesperantha coccinea which came from our London garden and likes the conditions here so much that it’s spread and spread.’ The formal vegetable garden beside the restored barn is James’ domain, an orderly arrangement of raised beds with clipped box spheres at their corners. Because the garden sits in a frost pocket, the growing season is short so James prioritises varieties that are hard to come by in shops and things that benefit from being eaten as soon as possible after picking. In this idyllic corner of Herefordshire, the couple have proved that if city dwellers are willing to be patient and learn from a rural environment, they can become skilful country gardeners. Upper Tan House, Stansbatch, Leominster HR6 9LJ. Visits by appointment; visit uppertanhouse.com. 108

Country Homes & Interiors

ON OUR D O O R S T E P. . . Visit... ‘Westonbury Mill Water Gardens, Pembridge (01544 388650, westonburymill watergardens.com). Full of Richard Pim’s amazing follies, this garden makes you laugh, as well as being full of good planting, plus you can get a nice lunch and a cup of tea there.’

Shop at... ‘Kington, a small market town with a high street that still boasts distinctive independent shops, including The Grapevine, a greengrocer, ﬁshmonger and game supplier rolled into one; and Number 25 Delicatessen, which has a wonderful cheese counter, sausages, salamis and wholefoods, too.’ Go for a meal at.... ‘The Stagg (01544 230221, thestagg.co.uk) at Titley. It is a dining pub with rooms serving very good locally sourced food.

HEREFORDSHIRE GARDEN

Picks for autumn 1 Tall cultivar Eupatorium maculatum (Atropurpureum Group) ‘Riesenschirm’ can reach up to 2.5m. 2 Leaves with toothed edges make Melianthus major a statement plant. 3 Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’ has daisy-like ﬂowers. 4 The African succulent Cotyledon orbiculata has red-rimmed leaves. 5 The crimson berries of Sorbus vilmorinii fade to near white over time. 6 Dahlia ‘David Howard’ has stunning double apricot-orange ﬂowers. 7 Symphyotrichum ‘Little Carlow’ is covered in tiny violet-blue daisies.

FEATURE AND PHOTOGRAPHS CAROLE DRAKE

8 Hesperantha coccinea ‘Major’ is a vigorous clump-forming perennial.

NEXT MONTH A TERRACED SUFFOLK GARDEN

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EXCLUSIVE The World’s First Cherry Bush! Pick Bags-Full of Incredibly Sweet, Juicy Fruit…

Without Reaching Or Effort – Even On A Patio!

NEW CHERRY BUSH

‘PORTHOS’

JUST

£19

.99 +P&P

LIMITED STOCK

A brand new way of growing cherries, revolutionising commercial crops – and now available to gardeners for the ﬁrst time!

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The ﬁrst ever “cherry bush” – ‘Porthos’ – forms a neat clump of fruiting branches right from the base of the stem – making picking your crops incredibly easy! The cherries have fabulous, incredibly sweet ﬂavour and you’ll pick up to 5kg (11lbs) per season once your tree has established – so you’ll save a small fortune over the life of your tree! ‘Porthos’ is 100% self-fertile so you won’t need a second tree to pollinate it, and of course boasts iconic cherry blossom that will bring your garden to life with colour and fragrance in early spring. It is very easy to grow and completely hardy – perfect for any small garden or even a patio pot! Supplied as a 50-70cm tall plant in a 3L pot. Eventual height 1.5-2m.

NEW & EXCLUSIVE to YouGarden customers! The world’s ﬁrst cherry bush – pick your fruit with ease! Delicious, super-sweet fruit – up to 5kg (11lbs) per year once established! Compact – perfect for a small garden or patio! Stock is strictly limited… ORDER NOW! NEW & EXCLUSIVE Cherry Bush ‘Porthos’ 50-70cm Tall Plant Plant in a 3L Pot Just £19.99 LIMITED STOCK - ORDER NOW!

•

EXTRA BONUS OFFER Grow your own spuds for the Christmas dinner table! Complete kit includes 3 different varieties of seed potato, 3 heavy duty, re-usable Grow Pots for growing in and a 1kg pack of potato fertiliser so all you need to do is plant and water.

TOTALLY WINTER HARDY

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Complete Patio Potato Kit SAVE £10.00! 6 ‘Turbo Tubers’ each £14.99 of 3 seed potato varieties 3 Heavy Duty 30L Pots and 1Kg Potato Fertiliser.

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DON’T FORGET: Deduct 10% (10p in every £1) if you joined the YouGarden Club: *We’ll automatically renew your membership every year, so you can keep saving - AND the price will NEVER go up... GUARANTEED! Full details at YouGarden.com/Club. Orders dispatched within 7 days. Delivery to UK only and a £6.00 surcharge will apply to the following postcode areas: AB, BT, DD8-11, GY, HS, IM, IV, JE, KA27-28, KW, PA20-80, PH19-50, TR21-25 & ZE. Offer subject to availability and in the event that this offer is oversubscribed, we reserve the right to send suitable substitutes. Images show mature plants. See website for full product details and T&Cs. © YouGarden Limited 2018. [ ] Yes, I’d like to sign-up to the FREE YouGarden Newsletter. [ ] Please tick here if you would prefer not to receive offers other than from us.

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TIME135

Make Life Lovely

FASHION, WELLBEING, ECO, PETS AND OTHER NICE THINGS

* Hydrangea Bird shirt, £8.99; trousers, £34.99, H&M.

ARRANGE ARTFULLY With more than a million shelfie images on Instagram, the decorating trend of artfully stylish arrangements of collectables is a social media phenomenon. In Shelfie – Clutterclearing Ideas for Stylish Shelf Art (£12.99, Mitchell Beazley), Martha Roberts shows how to source, sort and organise belongings for every room alongside inspiring photographs. We love this wire shelf display.

Delight in dahlias It’s dahlia time! Celebrate their beauty with Dahlias – Beautiful Varieties for Home and Garden by Naomi Slade (£25, Pavilion Books) with photography by Georgianna Lane, which looks at more than 65 types.

VINTAGE LOOK

* *

On the hunt for a statement piece for your wardrobe? Then you’ll love this exciting new collaboration, which sees archival prints from GP&J Baker being used in a clothing range at H&M.

ECO SPA BEAUTY Pinks Boutique is an award-winning eco luxe skincare spa product range handmade in the UK. Founded by Kirstie Sheriff and her husband Luke, the range came about through a combination of her spa and beauty therapy experience and his sports knowledge as a professional rugby player. The organic collection includes face, body, manicure, pedicure and waxing products. We love the Anti Ageing Serum, £39.50 for 30ml, which is packed full of natural plant extracts and antioxidant-rich oils, including rosehip.

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HAPPY THOUGHTS AND IDEAS

3 REASONS TO LOVE…

Beautifully curated stationery

1 LET SOMEONE KNOW YOU ARE THINKING OF THEM. Everyone loves receiving a card or letter through the post – it’s so much more thoughtful than an email. 2 IT CAN BE PERSONALISED for that extra special touch. 3 YOUR DRAWER WILL ALWAYS CONTAIN beautifully illustrated cards and paper – no last-minute trips to the supermarket.

Display flowers Make the most of late summer days in the garden by gathering blooms to create pretty posies. Show them off to their best advantage with these gorgeous Lumley stem vases, £14 each, from Rowen & Wren.

HoneyTree runs a monthly subscription club that provides a treat through the letterbox every month with illustrated stationery boxes. A Stationery Lovers subscription for three, six or 12 months starts at £10.50 a month and a Greetings Card subscription for three or six months starts at £7.50 a month.

Top tumblers Melamine just doesn’t suit sometimes – instead, why not picnic with East African Trading Company’s sustainable tumblers, which are handmade from upcycled horn, £20 each.

Name it! Invest in a beautifully crafted dog bed that’s built to stand the test of time with this stunning solid oak design, from £275 at The Oak & Rope Company – it can even be personalised with your pet’s name. A leg option enables it to be raised off the ground so that your pooch can be kept out of cold draughts and it’s available in five sizes to accommodate every type of dog.

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HAPPY THOUGHTS AND IDEAS

STRAP IT ON TAKE LUNCH... at Barnsley House

Solve the problem of having your phone on you while keeping your hands free with the Happy-Nes cross-body strap, £48, Soda Shop. The design is inspired by tropical islands and includes a ring that sticks to the phone so you can clip and go.

This year marks the centenary of the birth of English country house garden designer, lecturer and writer Rosemary Verey. Her Cotswolds home, the Grade II-listed Barnsley House, now a boutique hotel, is marking the occasion with a seasonal two-course lunch and garden tour for £39 on 6 September. For details, visit barnsleyhouse.com.

BUY BRITISH

John Julian Made from porcelain and stoneware, John Julian’s kitchenware, serveware and tableware is known for its paredback design with a classical influence. Handcrafted by sculptor, designer and ceramicist Julian Sainsbury and his team in Wiltshire using traditional techniques, the pieces are beautiful and durable. Classical cake stand, from £120.

* 3 OF THE BEST…

Water bottles

QUENCH YOUR THIRST WITH A REFILLABLE THAT LOOKS GREAT, TOO!

Liberty print

Enjoy your favourite beverage in iconic style with a Liberty archive floral print bottle from S’well. The doublewalled insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for 12 hours. The Liberty Floral bottle in Betsy Ann, £42 for 0.5L, Amara.

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Minimalist design

Convenience is key with the Memobottle, with a flat profile that fits neatly into your bag. Available in A5, A6, A7 and Slim sizes, from £19.95 at Stone Gift.

Multitasking

Made of BPA-free plastic, Dopper’s clever design means that the bottle can be used to drink on the go or be converted into a jug and cup. £12.50 for 450ml, Brand Academy Store at Trouva.

FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS

OUT AND ABOUT

There are en-suite baths or showers in all rooms, and children and canine family members are welcome.

A thatched roof sits atop a cosy bar, trendy dining room and 12 sumptuous boutique bedrooms.

A TOP SPOT TO EXPLORE THE JURASSIC COAST

The Castle Inn

FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT

ESCAPE TO THIS DORSET BOUTIQUE PUB HOTEL WHERE HISTORY MEETS RUSTIC LUXURY Amid the rolling countryside of the Isle of Purbeck, Dorset, you’ll find this recently restored 16th-century pub, The Castle Inn. Re-opened in April this year, this sweet pub with rooms is just a stroll from some of the gems of the Jurassic coastline, including Lulworth Cove. LOVE THE STYLE The restoration of the inn has been a triumphant exercise in preserving heritage while injecting contemporary cool. The traditional thatched roof, exposed wooden beams and original fireplaces combine with rainfall showers, modern artwork and vibrant Farrow & Ball-painted walls. The 12 bedrooms were individually designed, with each named after a local landmark, like Dungy Head and Mupe Bay. They

are stocked with treats, are all en suite and half are dog-friendly. INDULGE IN THE PUB With a kitchen headed up by Ashley Walcott (who previously worked at Heston Blumenthal’s restaurant, The Fat Duck), every dish centres on fresh, seasonal produce, with an emphasis on provenance – the local suppliers of the ingredients are listed on the menu, and as much as possible is sourced from within 30 miles of the inn. Although the market menu changes daily, the modern interpretations of pub classics are particular favourites – think Dorset crab cakes with seaweed ketchup, or pork chops with black pudding mash. Breakfast is equally creative, including almond milk quinoa

porridge and a roasted butternut squash dish with honey and seeds. SOAK UP THE HISTORY The sun-trap terrace and vibrant gardens over the Isle of Purbeck are lovely spots for a sundowner, but the nearby walks are the best way to get to know this scenic part of the world. Explore Lulworth Castle, set within a 1,000-acre deer park, or step back in time at nearby Tyneham Village, which was evacuated in 1943 during the Second World War and has been left as a ghost town ever since. HOW MUCH? From £75 a night with breakfast, based on two sharing. The Castle Inn, Main Road, West Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5RN, 01929 400311, castleinn-lulworth.co.uk.

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Celebrate with a

CHAMPAGNE WEEKEND IF YOU LOVE BUBBLES AND HAVE A SPECIAL OCCASION TO RAISE A GLASS TO, WHY NOT JOIN OUR SPARKLING NEW GETAWAY TO FRANCE’S WONDERFUL CHAMPAGNE REGION?

ho doesn’t enjoy celebrating with a glass of fizz? Here at Country Homes & Interiors we love raising a glass, which is why we’re launching a fabulous new champagne-tasting mini-break. It’s the perfect way to mark a significant birthday, anniversary, or indeed any special event. So why not join other Country Homes & Interiors readers on this exclusive holiday in Reims and celebrate with us while finding out which champagne is your favourite! We’ve joined forces with wine tour specialists Arblaster & Clarke to offer you this special three-day break next spring, one of the most

exciting times to visit the region – the sun shines, the grapes start to grow and the beautiful wildflowers are in full bloom. It’s also perfectly timed for all those summer celebrations. We’ve organised some wonderful exclusive events for Country Homes & Interiors readers, too, including a unique dinner held in the vaulted medieval Palais du Tau, a private party organised by the fabulous champagne house Taittinger in its headquarters in the centre of Reims, and a behind-the-scenes visit to one of the region’s best vineyards. Plus, there is a wonderful farewell lunch at the Champagne Vilmart Château. You’ll also get the chance to buy some fantastic discounted champagne so you can continue your special celebration back at home.

& INTERIORS

T RAVE L

Visit magnificent Reims cathedral.

Exclusive experience

The Vilmart vineyard near Reims.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Travel from London by private coach via either Eurotunnel or ferry (depending on availability). Two nights’ bed and champagne breakfast accommodation in a four-star hotel in Reims. Exclusive Country Homes & Interiors experience: champagne-ﬁlled private dinner at the Palais du Tau. Tutored champagne tasting by Arblaster & Clarke expert. Exclusive Country Homes & Interiors experience: private champagne party at Taittinger’s Demeure des Comtes de Champagne in Reims. Exclusive Country Homes & Interiors experience: visit to one of the region’s famous vineyards. Exclusive Country Homes & Interiors experience: gourmet lunch at the Champagne Vilmart Château. The chance to buy superb discounted wines. Local transport by coach – so you can drink as much as you like!

Your sparkling itinerary DAY ONE: WELCOME TO CHAMPAGNE

PHOTOGRAPH SHUTTERSTOCK

You’ll depart for France this morning on one of our private coaches via either Eurotunnel or ferry (depending on availability) to Champagne. Upon your arrival in Reims, you’ll check into your four-star hotel in the centre of the city where you will stay for the next two nights. Exclusive Country Homes & Interiors experience: Enjoy a surprise champagne tasting on arrival followed by a fabulous group dinner.

DAY TWO: PRIVATE PARTY AT TAITTINGER

This morning, after an indulgent champagne breakfast, you’ll take a walk to the famous champagne house, Taittinger, for a tour of the iconic chalk cellars, parts of which occupy fourthcentury Roman stone quarries. Exclusive Country Homes & Interiors

No shortage of champagne here!

experience: For lunch, Taittinger will host a private party for you. You’ll be able to sip on some of its finest champagnes, while enjoying canapés and more. This evening is free for you to have a well-deserved rest!

DAY THREE: SPECIAL VINEYARD TOUR & GOURMET FAREWELL LUNCH

Enjoy another champagne breakfast on our final day. Exclusive Country Homes & Interiors experience: You’ll be taken for a special behind-the-scenes visit to see one of the growers supplying the top champagne houses. You will also be able to find out how they produce the grapes that are used in the unique ‘méthode champenoise’. Finally, as a farewell celebration, you’ll enjoy a lunch in the Vilmart Champagne Château to toast the end of your trip and the new friends you’ve made along the way.

* *

THE DATES

21-23 April 2019

THE PRICE From £875pp*

*From price based on two sharing, subject to availability. Single supplement applies. Deposit: £100. Dates and itinerary details may be subject to change. This trip is ATOL-protected and our travel partner Arblaster & Clarke is ABTOT-bonded. For full T&Cs visit: countryhomes.tripsmiths.com/champagneCHI.

HOW TO BOOK

Call 020 3131 2624 and quote reference TS-CHAMPAGNE Or book online at countryhomes. tripsmiths.com/champagneCHI.

OUR PARTNERS

Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours offers high-quality escorted tours to almost 30 countries; arblasterandclarke.com.

Tripsmiths is the pioneering travel company that delivers exclusive travel experiences to customers; tripsmiths.com.

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Fruity and flowery

CAKES AND TARTS Henrietta Inman spent her childhood in Suffolk eating home-grown fruits and free-range eggs. Her appreciation for fresh foods has never left her. Here she shares her favourite summer recipes

Polenta cake

GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD

Flower cake Â»

GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD

POLENTA CAKE

FLOWER CAKE

A bit like an Eton Mess but in cake form, this is one big and beautiful showstopper of a cake. Serve it in late summer when raspberries are at their sweet peak.

This cake makes the fragrance of elderflowers sing. Finish with edible flowers or petals if you can, such as roses, cornflowers, primroses, marigolds and pansies.

SERVES 12–14

SERVES 10

Unsalted butter, to grease 90g quick-cook polenta 90g brown rice flour 60g desiccated coconut 240g golden caster sugar 1½ tsp baking powder Finely grated zest of 3 unwaxed lemons, plus 1 tbsp juice Pinch of sea salt flakes 375g kefir, buttermilk or natural yogurt 135g virgin coconut oil, melted 3 eggs, lightly beaten 675g fresh raspberries, plus extra to serve 350g double cream 350g Greek-style yogurt, the thickest you can find 3 tbsp golden icing sugar

170g unsalted butter, softened, plus more to grease 170g white spelt flour 2 tsp baking powder 140g golden caster sugar 120ml elderflower cordial 3 eggs 350g double cream 125g rose petal jelly or strawberry jam Edible flowers or petals, to decorate

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/Fan 160°C/Gas 4.

Grease the sides and bases of 3 x 20cm loosebottomed cake tins. Line with greaseproof paper. 2 In a bowl, whisk together the polenta, flour, coconut, sugar, baking powder, zest of 2 lemons and salt. In a second bowl, combine the kefir, yogurt or buttermilk with the coconut oil and eggs. Then mix the wet ingredients into the dry. Finally, gently fold in 375g of the raspberries, trying to keep them whole. 3 Divide the mix between the 3 tins, about 500g in each. Use a palette knife or the back of a spoon to smooth out the top. Bake for 15 minutes, rotate the tins and bake for a further 10-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Leave to cool. 4 Whip the cream to soft peaks. Fold in the yogurt, remaining lemon zest, lemon juice and icing sugar. Fold in the rest of the raspberries. 5 Stack the cakes on top of each other, with a thick layer of cream on top of each one. Decorate with any remaining raspberries. Any leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/Fan 160°C/Gas 4.

Grease a 20cm loose-bottomed cake tin and line with greaseproof paper. Whisk together the flour and baking powder. 2 In a separate bowl, cream the butter, sugar and 30ml of the cordial until light and fluffy. Mix in 1 egg, then one-third of the flour. Then alternate between mixing eggs and flour until you’ve run out. Mix until the batter is smooth. 3 Turn the batter out into the prepared tin and bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating the cake halfway through, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. 4 Remove the cake from the oven, pierce it all over with a skewer, then pour over 60ml of the cordial. Leave to cool on a wire rack. 5 Whip the cream to soft peaks and fold in the remaining elderflower cordial. 6 Once the cake has cooled, cut it in half horizontally, then fill with the rose petal jelly and half the cream. Top the cake with the remaining cream and decorate with edible flowers, if you like. Any leftover cake will keep in the fridge for about 5 days. Let it return to room temperature before serving.

Fig and lemon tartlets Âť

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GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD

FIG AND LEMON TARTLETS

APRICOT AND BERRY CROSTATA

The delicate ﬂavours of lemon verbena and ﬁgs are complemented perfectly by this light-tasting pastry.

A proper crostata – with its pretty lattice top, oozing with fruits encased in crumbly pastry – is a real joy.

MAKES 8

SERVES 8-10

60g crème fraîche 120ml lemon juice, plus finely grated zest of 1½ unwaxed lemons 140g golden caster sugar 70g honey 10g dried lemon verbena leaves 155g soft unsalted butter, plus extra to grease 250g white spelt flour, plus extra to dust 50g ground almonds ½ tsp sea salt flakes 190g firm unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes 4 eggs, plus 3 egg yolks 50g jumbo oats Greek-style yogurt, to serve Figs and honeycomb, to decorate

190g unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes, plus extra to grease 250g white spelt ﬂour, plus extra to dust 50g ground almonds ½ tsp sea salt ﬂakes 70g golden caster sugar 2½ tsp dried lavender, roughly chopped Finely grated zest of 1 unwaxed lemon 1 egg, plus 1 egg yolk 8–10 apricots (approx 400g), cut into 1cm slices 300g apricot jam 300g raspberries

the pastry, combine the flour, almonds, salt, sugar, lavender and half the zest. Mix in the butter, then add the egg. Weigh out 300g of the pastry for the base. Chill the remaining pastry. 2 Put the base pastry between two sheets of lightly floured greaseproof paper and roll out to 3mm thick. Lift off the top piece of paper, roll the pastry around the rolling pin, then unroll it over the tin, pushing it into the edges. Chill for 30 minutes. Roll the remaining pastry into a 3-4mm thick circle and chill. 3 Preheat the oven to 180°C/Fan 160°C/Gas 4. Line the pastry shell with baking paper and baking beans. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove the beans and bake for another 10 minutes. 4 Brush the baked shell with egg yolk and dry in the oven for 1-2 minutes. Combine the rest of the zest, apricots and jam in a bowl. Lightly mix in the raspberries, then spoon into the shell. 5 Cut the remaining pastry into 1cm-wide strips, and make a lattice over the top. Brush a little egg yolk over the lattice and bake the crostata for 30 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Leave to cool for 30 minutes, then remove from the tin and serve with cream. Any leftovers will keep for 5 days in the fridge.

Recipes are from The Natural Baker (£20, Jacqui Small).

NEXT MONTH COOKING WITH BEER

PHOTOGRAPHS PHILIPPA LANGLEY

1 In a pan, bring the crème fraîche, lemon juice, half the sugar and the honey to a simmer. Once the sugar has dissolved, turn off the heat and stir in the verbena and zest of 1 lemon. Cover and leave to infuse for 30-60 minutes. 2 Grease 8 x 10cm-wide, 2cm-deep tartlet tins. Mix together the flour, almonds, salt and remaining sugar and lemon zest in a mixer to make the pastry. Add the cubes of butter and mix to crumbs. Mix in 1 egg. Form into a ball, wrap in cling film and chill for 30 minutes. 3 Toast the oats and divide between the tins. 4 Lightly flour a sheet of greaseproof paper, place the pastry on top, sprinkle with flour, then roll out under another sheet of paper to 3mm thick. Cut out 8 circles and press them into the tins. Chill for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 180°C/Fan 160°C/Gas 4. 5 Strain the lemon mix through a sieve. Return to the heat and bring to a boil. Beat the rest of the eggs and all but one of the yolks, and stir into the lemon syrup over a low heat, until thickened. Strain and leave to cool to 37°C. Blitz in the butter and chill. 6 Put a circle of greaseproof paper and baking beans in each shell, and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the beans and paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown. Leave to cool, then remove from the tins. Brush with the last egg yolk and bake for a few minutes to dry out. 7 Fill each shell with some of the curd and top with yogurt, half a fig and some honeycomb.

1 Grease a 23cm loose-bottomed tart tin. For

Apricot and berry crostata

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P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E

Enjoy the best of British summer berries IS THERE ANYTHING NICER THAN AFTERNOON TEA IN THE GARDEN? WILLIAM’S CONSERVE WILL ADD THE PERFECT FINISHING TOUCH

STRAWBERRY SCONES WITH PIMM’S CREAM Combine your favourite William’s Conserve with the quintessential British Summer Cup in this recipe... MAKES 10 300g plain ﬂour 1 tbsp baking powder 50g chilled butter, cubed 50g caster sugar 3 tbsp William’s British Strawberry Conserve 100ml milk, plus 1 tsp extra

To serve 3 tbsp Pimm’s The Original No 1 Cup 150ml double cream William’s British Strawberry Conserve Fresh strawberries Mint

ith summer in full swing, there’s nothing we love more than enjoying its delicious seasonal fruits, and new William’s Conserves are giving us just that. Celebrating great British taste, these new premium conserves are lovingly produced in Histon, Cambridgeshire following a recipe created by grocer William Pickles Hartley in 1871. Times have changed, but this fruity range is crafted with care using only four simple ingredients and specially selected, British-grown fruit. These uniquely scrummy 124

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conserves are a definite must-have on any breakfast table or at afternoon tea, as well as being a special finishing touch for all your summer baking.

Try William’s Strawberry, Raspberry and Blackcurrant Conserve for £2.80 each at Sainsbury’s, Asda and Ocado.

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C/Gas 6. Lightly grease two baking trays. 2 Sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl. Add the butter and rub into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar. 3 Whisk the William’s British Strawberry Conserve into the milk, then gently stir into the dry ingredients to form a soft dough. 4 Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about 3cm thick. Cut into as many rounds as possible with a fluted 4cm cutter and place on the prepared baking trays. Brush the top of the scones with milk and bake for 20 minutes until risen and golden. Cool on a wire rack. 5 To serve, whip the Pimm’s and cream together until it forms soft peaks. Split the scones and serve with William’s British Strawberry Conserve, a dollop of flavoured cream, fresh strawberries and mint.

C O U N T RY K I T C H E N F O C U S

ABOVE AND BEYOND IT MAY HAVE TURNED INTO A MARATHON RENOVATION, BUT LESIA SCHOLEY'S PERSONALITY-FILLED KITCHEN CATERS FOR SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST COOKING

PROJECT PROFILE

The island unit forms a natural divide between the main cooking and washing-up areas, and the rest of the room.

Owners Lesia and Michael Scholey, who live here with their teenage son and daughter.

attached garage, along with a full kitchen refurbishment. Kitchen size 9.4x4.2m

House A ﬁve-bedroom, detached Edwardian home in Surrey.

Designer Alex Main, director,

Project A dilapidated garage was removed to make space for two new boot rooms and an

The Main Company.

Cabinetry Bespoke traditional in-frame kitchen, painted in Little Greene’s Grey Moss 234, by The Main Company.

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The contemporary coffee machine and steam oven are separate from the classic main kitchen.

We called

it the “while we’re at it” project,’ says Lesia Scholey, about the major kitchen renovation that had been an idea for nearly a decade before she and husband Mike finally bit the bullet. ‘We always said we’d replace the kitchen when we tackled the decaying detached garage and boiler room just outside the kitchen. I wanted to link this ground floor space but I knew it would mean demolishing the existing outbuildings, as well as rebuilding part of the kitchen. Once the couple started work, things snowballed. ‘We ended up doing a lot more to the rest of the house than we’d planned. But we never lost sight of the fact that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and it’s the area where I concentrated my attention,’ adds Lesia. Architect friend Yarema Ronish of Richard Morton Architects had taken on the house renovation and helped Lesia create the extensive kitchen plans. The new design took into account the family’s love of entertaining on a grand scale. ‘Last year we invited 75 people for Thanksgiving, though I had to do it in two hits,’ says Lesia, who likes to cook using produce from 126

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Beautiful handcrafted French doors allow instant garden access.

Mike’s well-tended vegetable garden and allotment. When the time finally came to start on the kitchen, designer-maker Alex Main came highly recommended to the couple. ‘I wanted someone who would build to our plans but who was also highly enthusiastic and creative,’ Lesia explains. ‘Alex is willing to make bold suggestions but also understands tradition.’ With Mike’s three older children popping back home from university, as well as Lesia’s family visiting from America, the Scholeys’ new kitchen layout was all about managing traffic flow. ‘The sink run and range cooker are protected by the island, so you can cook without people trying to squeeze past, says Lesia. ‘But the fridge is in an open space, easily accessible to all.’ For the design style, Lesia had a rustic yet elegant look in mind. ‘I chose the cabinets and range cooker for their heritage feel,’ she says. ‘The exposed brickwork also speaks to the history of the house, while giving it a more modern edge. The wood shelving, art and ceramics reflect our characters – it is truly our own unique, personal space.’

C O U N T RY K I T C H E N F O C U S

CH&I

LOVES

Lesia chose the Lacanche range cooker for its high-capacity ovens.

Double bowl Belfast sink, £654, Shaws of Darwen.

‘I am a strong believer in living in a space first. You need to find out what is wrong before you can fix it’ Sofa The brickwork was discovered during the build and soon became a feature in the overall design.

Window seat Sink Boot room Cooker

Sink

oven

fridge

Island

The layout

The main kitchen is centred on the island unit, which helps keep guests away from the cooking and prep areas when Lesia is in full ﬂow. New French doors connect the dining area with the garden, and the garage is now linked directly to the kitchen, via a boot room on one side and a utility/cloakroom on the other.

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design solutions TO INSPIRE YOU

The crackle-glaze splashback tiles were a bargain ﬁnd from Tile Mountain.

S TAT E M E N T H O O D

The beautiful aged brass cooker hood is a custom design by The Main Company that enhances the room’s original high ceiling by drawing the eye upwards. The pillars below are actually brick slips, painstakingly matched to the original brickwork – a happy discovery halfway through the build. ‘When the hood arrived we had to get a structural engineer in to help us make sure it stays put,’ says Lesia.

C O U N T RY K I T C H E N F O C U S

M U LT I P U R P O S E BOOT ROOMS

The addition of connected boot rooms, one at the front of the house and one at the back, each with a door leading outside, has transformed life for the Scholeys. The previously shoe-strewn hallway is now a tidy space to welcome guests, thanks to the family storage area in the front boot room. This rear boot room, meanwhile, also functions as a back-up kitchen, with extra storage, sink and dishwasher.

OPEN ISLAND

‘I wanted an island that didn’t look too heavy, so I designed this with open sections,’ says Lesia. ‘Alex made it to my drawing and added great finishing touches, like stained oak contrasts and the beading on the drawers.’ At one end are drawers with cutlery and linens for the table, and the other, nearest the range cooker, has drawers for storing utensils. ‘The baskets are decorative but also great for stashing awkwardly shaped items,’ adds Lesia.

The side nearest the sink is out of sight so Lesia uses it to store her bigger items, without worrying how neat they look.

The storage in the spacious boot room helps keep the house clutter free.

The details CABINETRY Bespoke traditional in-frame kitchen, prices from £25,000, The Main Company, painted in Little Greene’s Grey Moss 234 ﬂat oil eggshell.

FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHS SEAN KNOTT

SURFACES Victoria Falls Quartzite worktops, sourced by Levantina, £715sq m, from The Main Company. Craquele Grey ceramic splashback tiles, £29.99sq m, Tile Mountain. Geneva Provence Limestone ﬂooring, from £146.40sq m, Mandarin Stone. Walls painted in Ash White vinyl matt emulsion, £30 for 2.5L, Dulux Heritage.

APPLIANCES Savigny 110cm range cooker in Frangipane, from £6,410, Lacanche. Coffee machine, £2,650; steam oven, £3,650; integrated fridge, £5,650; warming drawer, £825; all

from Gaggenau’s 400 Series. Bespoke hood in aged brass, incorporating Gaggenau built-in extraction, £5,250, The Main Company. iQ300 60cm fully integrated dishwasher, £549, Siemens.

SINKS & TAPS Polaris 3-in-1 boiling tap, £829, Perrin & Rowe. Double-bowl Belfast sink, £654, Shaws of Darwen.

ACCESSORIES Beck shelving unit in mango wood and iron, £399, Swoon, has the same look. Industrial glass parasol pendant lights, £100 each; Weathered oak bar stools, £180 each, all Cox & Cox. Geneva teak dining table and Milan chairs, £2,650, No. 44 Furniture. Similar baskets, from £10 each, The Basket Company. Similar Moroccan tagine, £35, Maroque.

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M Y C O U N T RY B U S I N E S S

‘I MAKE JUICE AND CIDER FROM HERITAGE FRUITS WITH RARE AND WONDERFUL FLAVOURS’ Fruit farmer and juice maker, Helen Brent-Smith

hen Helen Brent-Smith was a teenager, it fell to her parents to take over the running of a dairy farm that had been in their family since the 1700s, so they moved to Gloucestershire. ‘It wasn’t your average teen life,’ says Helen. ‘While most of my friends were out dating boys, I was trudging through mud and driving tractors!’ Helen loved the farm’s nesting owls in spring, and its frosted fields in winter, but never imagined she might one day be a farmer herself. Instead, after university, Helen moved to London with partner Dave Kaspar, and started a career as a clinical psychologist. But the work, involving patients with complex needs, was draining, and after only a few years, the couple became disillusioned with London life. At this time, in an unused corner of the family farm, next to an old orchard planted by Helen’s great aunt in 1912, a cottage came up for rent. So they decided to return to Gloucestershire. ‘We made the move one bitterly cold winter,’ says Helen. ‘The house was dark and dank. The bathroom was so glacial you 130

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had to keep your coat on!’ Dave, a languages teacher, found work at a local school and Helen commuted to London two days a week. Then, in the autumn of 1991, the orchard produced a bumper crop – there were baskets of apples everywhere, far more than the couple could use or sell. So they borrowed some old pressing equipment and had a go at making their own juices. Working the crusher by hand was arduous, but the final product was a revelation. ‘It was a world away from the commercially manufactured stuff,’ says Helen. ‘We were crushing old varieties – ‘Newton Wonder’, ‘Annie Elizabeth’ and ‘King of the Pippins’. This, we discovered, made all the difference. The drink was rounded, golden, each blend with its own character.’ When the unwieldy crusher broke, they took out a small loan to invest in more machinery. Over the next few years, Helen and Dave began selling the juice under their Day’s Cottage brand at shops and cafés. They also immersed themselves in a new-found passion for fruit trees. At the outset, there were just six varieties of apples on the farm. Today it is home to more than 200 specimens of

The autumn harvest is a busy time of year for Helen. Country Homes & Interiors

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What I love most... ‘THE RHYTHM OF THE YEAR – FROM HARVEST SEASON IN AUTUMN, TO TREE PRUNING AND COLLECTING WOOD FOR OUR WASSAIL BONFIRE CELEBRATIONS IN THE WINTER’

pear, apple and plum. Helen cannot pinpoint one favourite: ‘In late August, a ‘Discovery’, eaten straight from the tree, is hard to beat,’ she says. ‘And in September, I love a ‘Sunset’. Come mid-October, ‘Ashmead’s Kernel’ – bred in Gloucester in 1700 – is wonderful, and ‘Cambridge Queening’ is best for tarte Tatin…’ Although not certified organic, their crops are unsprayed. ‘Commercial apples are one of the most chemically saturated crops because they are very prone to disease and pests,’ says Helen. ‘But our trees and pastures are entirely free from chemicals. Growing so many varieties helps – if one type fails, others will thrive.’ It hasn’t all been idyllic summer scenes straight out of the pages of Cider with Rosie,

Harvesting season is in full swing at Day’s Cottage.

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however. With a growing family, as well as a developing business, there was plenty of hard slog. In early 2000, the couple borrowed further in order to take on seasonal staff and produce more stock. Now they could set their sights on farmers’ markets. By this time they had two small sons, Tomas and Josef. ‘At one point we were doing three markets a week,’ Helen says. ‘We’d return home late on a Friday, tired children in tow, to unload and reload for the next day’s early start.’ The intense harvesting period, from late summer into autumn, is a furious round of climbing ladders into tree tops and loading apples onto pallets. Juicing itself involves crushing and pressing the fruit, then bottling for pasteurisation – all demanding physical work. But in late summer the gnarled trees, wild flowers beneath them, cast a spell that boosts motivation. ‘When you’re picking apples with buzzards wheeling above and woodpeckers drumming in the boughs, it’s exhilarating,’ says Helen. It’s some 25 years since the business was established, and it’s now producing about 25,000 bottles a year. The couple decided not to go any larger, preferring to keep distribution on a relatively local scale. Instead, they diversified, producing perry and cider, adding a nursery to propagate unusual fruit tree varieties, and offering workshops in rural orchard skills. They also undertake consultancy work on orchards. The business has always been about a lot more than simply turning a profit. Helen is proud that they work in partnership with the land, earning a living and providing employment, but also enriching its diversity. They have received awards for their preservation work with orchards, which creates important habitats for rare wildlife, such as hole-nesting birds and endangered insects. ‘It took me many years to stop thinking of myself as a psychologist,’ says Helen. ‘Now I feel like a farmer at heart.’ Day’s Cottage, 01452 813602, dayscottage.co.uk.

M Y C O U N T RY B U S I N E S S The juicing all takes place on the farm.

The couple sell up to 15 varieties of drinks at a time.

The apples are washed and crushed in this machine.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Every barrel of cider and perry tastes different,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; says Helen.

They display 100 varieties of heritage apples for National Apple Day.

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Chickens forage freely among the fruit orchards.

@ ON OUR D O O R S T E P. . . Visit… ‘Gloucester Cathedral (01452 528095, gloucestercathedral. org.uk). It’s packed with glorious historical and architectural treasures. Or, go for a walk on Haresfield Beacon to admire the views over the Severn Vale.’ Shop at... ‘Made in Stroud (01453 840265, madeinstroud.org), for exquisite local arts and crafts.’

Go for a meal at... ‘Stroud Brewery (01453 887122, stroudbrewery.co.uk) just outside Stroud, for simple, wood-fired pizzas and excellent local organic beers (or to try our cider!).’

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M Y C O U N T RY B U S I N E S S

Small business advice

HOW TO SELL AT FARMERS’ MARKETS Follow our guide to turn passion for your artisan product into profit

It was joining a farmers’ market

FEATURE SOPHIE GALE PHOTOGRAPHS CAMILLA REYNOLDS

that really took Helen and Dave’s business to the next level. Turnover doubled in the space of just a few years. ‘The biggest factor was that customers could sample the product,’ says Helen. ‘Most people only knew the over-sweet supermarket juice, but at the market we were able to show them the real thing.’ So what is the secret to setting up a stall that buzzes with customers? Two experts in the field, Matt Day, markets and estates services officer at Bristol market, where Helen and Dave first began selling in 1998, and Kardien Gerbrands, market manager at the couple’s local market in Stroud, share their advice… Be an early bird. Most farmers’ market traders arrive to market by 8am, so learn to love being up with the lark. Also, be sure to put your name down on waiting lists as soon as possible, because many markets are oversubscribed. And with good reason: Bristol has up to 10,000 visitors pass through its Wednesday morning market and Stroud draws crowds of up to 20,000 across three days. Get up to speed on food legislation. For perishable goods, food.gov.uk is the best place to start. You will need to arrange an inspection with

Environmental Health to make sure your premises for baking, cooking or butchering comply with all guidelines. Put ﬁnancial protections in place. Public liability insurance is a must. If your jewellery cuts a customer or your hot pies burn someone, you don’t want to have to pay out. Choose cover of at least £5 million. But don’t panic at the large sums; you should be able to secure this basic level for about £100 a year. The National Market Trader Federation (nmtf.co.uk) has information on these matters and the membership fee includes zero-excess liability cover. Pay your way. A stall will set you back about £30 to £40 per day. But there can be discounts to be had for regular commitment or smaller traders, so don’t be afraid to argue your case. According to Kardien, the charge is a small outlay considering the breadth of exposure it buys. ‘Compared with other forms of advertising, a market stall is a snip!’ Think carefully about branding. They say a good product will sell itself, but some sellers feel it’s important to catch the buyer’s eye with a snazzy label. Matt’s advice is to do your research. ‘Visit as many farmers’ markets as possible in for

inspiration from the best of what you see, and avoid what’s not working.’ Be eye-catching. You may want to ‘dress’ yourself as well as your stall. Branded clothing can be effective and leaﬂets are important to ensure customers whose interest has been piqued can take away contact details. Back this up with a great website and social media presence. ‘Remember,’ says Matt, ‘you only have a cursory glance in which to catch a customer’s attention.’ Stay the course. Don’t abandon ship too easily. It takes about three months to establish yourself and start seeing customers return. ‘If the product is good, you will get there,’ says Kardien. Don’t do it for the money. Traders’ passion for what they produce plays well with customers at the stall side, and is a main driver of success. So be gregarious, engage with customers, and show off your specialist knowledge. ‘None of our traders do it for the money – you have to do it for the love of it,’ says Kardien.’ Bristol market, 0117 922 4014, bristol.gov.uk/stnicholasmarkets; Stroud market, 01453 758060, fresh-n-local.co.uk.

The one lesson I have learnt...

‘FOR US, DIVERSIFYING PROVED MORE IMPORTANT THAN SCALING UP PRODUCTION – OUR INTEREST DEEPENED AND WORK BECAME MORE INSPIRING. WHAT WAS A JOB, BECAME A PASSION’ NEXT MONTH WILD FLORIST LAYLA ROBINSON

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LACANCHE 01202 733011 lacanche.co.uk LAURA ASHLEY 0333 200 8009 lauraashley.com LE CREUSET 0800 373792 lecreuset.co.uk LEWIS & WOOD 01453 878517 lewisandwood.co.uk LIBERTY 020 7734 1234 liberty.co.uk LINENME 020 8133 3853 linenme.com LINEN TALES linentales.com LITTLE GREENE 0845 880 5855 littlegreene.com LOAF 0845 468 0698 loaf.com LOMBOK 020 7736 5171 lombok.co.uk LOOKING GLASS OF BATH 01225 461969 lookingglassofbath.co.uk LOTTIE DAY 01603 728992 madebylottieday.com LOUIS DE POORTERE 00 32 56 393386 louisdepoortere.com LOUISA GRACE INTERIORS 07956 650895 louisagrace.co.uk LUMA 020 8748 2264 lumadirect.com

MAD LILIES 01737 356404 madlilies.co.uk MADE.COM 0344 257 1888 made.com MAISONS DU MONDE 0808 234 2172 maisonsdumonde.com MANDARIN STONE 01600 715444 mandarinstone.com MARKS & SPENCER 0333 014 8000 marksandspencer.com MAROQUE 01449 723133 maroque.co.uk MODERN COUNTRY STYLE INTERIORS 0333 880 2458 moderncountrystyleinteriors.co.uk MOON 01943 884713 moons.co.uk MORSO 01788 554410 morso.co.uk MURMUR 0333 200 7331 murmur.co.uk

NATIONAL TRUST SHOP 0300 123 2025 shop.nationaltrust.org.uk NEPTUNE 01793 427300 neptune.com NEVILLE JOHNSON 0161 873 8333 nevillejohnson.co.uk NEWGATE CLOCKS 01691 679994 newgateclocks.com NKUKU 0333 240 0155 nkuku.com NO44 01932 865505 no44.furniture NORDIC HOUSE 01872 223220 nordichouse.co.uk NORPAR BARNS 01277 374968 norpar.co.uk NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET. COM 020 3318 5115 Notonthehighstreet.com

OAKAPPLE TRADING COMPANY 01798 342576 oakappletrading.com OLIVER BONAS 020 8974 0110 oliverbonas.com ONE WORLD 020 8974 2211 one.world

OUT THERE INTERIORS 020 8099 7443 outthereinteriors.com PENNY MORRISON 01547 560460 pennymorrison.com PENTREATH & HALL 020 7430 2526 pentreath-hall.co.uk PEONY & SAGE 01289 388650 peonyandsage.com PERCH & PARROW 020 8629 1166 perchandparrow.com PERRIN & ROWE 01708 526361 perrinandrowe.com PIGLET 07729 735729 pigletinbed.com PILLO 020 8888 7319 pillolondon.com PINKS BOUTIQUE 01332 204804 pinksboutique.com POOKY LIGHTING 020 7351 3003 pooky.com PORTA ROMANA 01420 23005 portaromana.co.uk POSH GARDEN FURNITURE 0121 742 1754 poshgardenfurnitureuk.com POSH GRAFFITI 01949 850245 poshgrafﬁti.com

RANGEMASTER 0800 804 6261 rangemaster.co.uk REX LONDON 020 8746 2473 rexlondon.com RICHARD WARD JOINERY 01751 431895 ROCKETT ST GEORGE 01444 253391 rockettstgeorge.co.uk ROSEHIP & WILD 07917 735730 rosehipandwild.com ROSELIND WILSON DESIGN 020 3371 1779 roselindwilsondesign.com ROTHSCHILD & BICKERS 01992 677292 rothschildbickers.com ROUGH OLD GLASS 0845 548 8586 rougholdglass.co.uk ROWEN & WREN 01276 451077 rowenandwren.co.uk

SAINSBURY’S HOME 0800 636262 sainsburyshome.co.uk SALIGO DESIGN 020 7100 4333 saligodesign.com SALVESEN GRAHAM 020 7967 7777 salvesengraham.com

SCUMBLE GOOSIE 01453 731305 scumblegoosie.co.uk SHAWS OF DARWEN 01254 775111 shawsofdarwen.com SIEMENS 0344 892 8999 siemens-home.co.uk SIMS HILDITCH 01249 783087 simshilditch.com SISAL & SEAGRASS 020 8558 0887 sisalandseagrass.co.uk SODA SHOP soda.shop SOFA.COM 0345 400 2222 sofa.com SOFTER + WILD 07903 686347 softerandwild.com SOPHIE ALLPORT 01778 560256 sophieallport.com SOPHIE CONRAN 020 7603 1522 sophieconran.com STAIRRODS UK 01207 591176 stairrods.co.uk STONE & WOOD TILES 01608 690090 cdstiles.com STONE GIFT stonegift.com SUMMER HARVEST OILS 01764 683288 summerharvestoils.co.uk SUNBURY ANTIQUES MARKET 01932 230946 sunburyantiques.com SWEETPEA & WILLOW 0345 257 2627 sweetpeaandwillow.com SWOON 020 3319 6332 swooneditions.com T&G WOODWARE 01275 841841 tg-woodware.com THE BASKET COMPANY 01202 422600 thebasketcompany.com THE CARPET & FLOORING COMPANY 01295 261100 THE CONTEMPORARY HOME 0845 130 8229 tch.net THE COTSWOLD COMPANY 0333 200 1725 cotswoldco.com THE CURIOUS DEPARTMENT thecuriousdepartment.com THE DORMY HOUSE 01264 365808 thedormyhouse.com THE FOREST BAILIFF 020 8947 5115 forestbailiff.co.uk THE FRENCH HOUSE 020 7371 7573 thefrenchhouse.co.uk THE LINEN WORKS 020 3744 1020 thelinenworks.co.uk

THE MAIN COMPANY 01423 330451 maincompany.com THE OAK & ROPE COMPANY 01227 469413 theoakandropecompany.co.uk THE OLD FLIGHT HOUSE 01869 343441 theoldﬂighthouse.co.uk THE ORIGINAL CHAIR COMPANY 01753 551600 theoriginalchaircompany.co.uk THE WHITE COMPANY 020 3758 9222 thewhitecompany.com THE WORM THAT TURNED 0345 605 2505 worm.co.uk THORNBACK & PEEL 020 7831 2878 thornbackandpeel.co.uk THORNDOWN 0800 023 5654 thorndown.co.uk TILE MOUNTAIN 01782 223822 tilemountain.co.uk TITCHMARSH & GOODWIN 01473 252158 titchmarsh-goodwin.co.uk TK MAXX 01923 473561 tkmaxx.com TOAST 0333 400 5200 toa.st/uk TOBIAS AND THE ANGEL 020 8878 8902 tobiasandtheangel.com TOM HOWLEY 0161 848 1200 tomhowley.co.uk TOPPS TILES 0800 783 6262 toppstiles.co.uk TROUVA.COM 020 7193 6444 Trouva.com TURNBULL & THOMAS 01642 309640 turnbullandthomas.co.uk UK FLOORING DIRECT 02476 012840 ukﬂooringdirect.co.uk

VAX 0330 026 8455 vax.co.uk VICTORIA & ALBERT 020 7351 4378 vandabaths.com VICTORIA & REBECCA 0116 403 0110 victoria-rebecca.co.uk VILLEROY & BOCH 020 8871 0011 villeroy-boch.co.uk VOYAGE DECORATION 0141 641 1700 voyagedecoration.com

WALLPAPER DIRECT 01323 430886 wallpaperdirect.com WHICHFORD POTTERY 01608 684416 whichfordpottery.com WOODCOTE GREEN GARDEN CENTRE & NURSERIES 020 8647 6838 woodcotegreen.com WYEVALE GARDEN CENTRES 0344 272 3000 wyevalegardencentres.co.uk

YARROW ART & DESIGN 07860 580424 yaad.co.uk YONDER LIVING yonderliving.com

ZARA HOME 0800 026 0091 zarahome.com ZED & CO 01892 782991 zedandco.co.uk

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M Y F AV O U R I T E V I E W

‘Henry Moore’s The Arch is calming and thought-provoking’ Kelly Hoppen, designer

become a firm fixture on my route. The Roman travertine arch is six metres high and is an incredible piece of sculptural art in the most gorgeous setting. It’s so fantastically positioned – from one side you can see right through it across the Serpentine to Kensington Palace in the distance. From the other side, you’re looking at a wonderful expanse of greenery, with just a hint of the city peeping through the top of the trees. This really is a little portion of the countryside in the heart of central London and it is just so serene and idyllic.

Running is a fantastic way for me to clear my head, so I’ll often be in Kensington Gardens by myself, and always early in the morning as I find that it’s the perfect start to my day. Being somewhere with an inspiring view is such a good motivator for the day ahead. The Arch was taken away for a lengthy restoration, and was only returned to the gardens a few years ago. As much as I enjoy it when I’m alone, I also adore walking here with my family, so being able to admire the sculpture and surrounding views with my daughter, Tash, my grandson, Rudy, and my partner, John, is just as lovely.

The wonderful thing about being out in Kensington Gardens is that it can look 146

Country Homes & Interiors

incredible in any weather, crisp in spring with the newly budding ﬂowers, or in autumn with gorgeous russet leaves all around. But I much prefer the view there when there’s a clear sky and the sun is shining. For me, this sculpture is so enigmatic, and the way it plays with light is incredible. It looks quite different every time I see it, depending on the weather or position of the sun. In midsummer, the arch really just comes alive in the sun because of the unique shadows it creates... although that is dependent on the British weather, of course!

There is nothing quite like the countryside and woodlands, it’s so verdant and peaceful. What I love about Britain is that you can drive half an hour outside of a busy city and find yourself surrounded by the most gorgeous woodlands and natural parklands. I’m particularly inspired by my surroundings, and few things have quite as much of an effect on me as being outdoors. My daughter, son-in-law and grandson live outside of London, and we have a house in the countryside, so I’m fortunate to spend my (limited!) spare time making the most of the outdoors. See Kelly Hoppen’s range of furniture and homewares at kellyhoppen.com. Kelly has also designed a collection of furniture for Resource Decor at SONDER Living (sonderliving.com).

FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT PHOTOGRAPH (MAIN) GRUFFYDD THOMAS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

I ﬁrst came across Henry Moore’s sculpture The Arch during a morning run in London’s Kensington Gardens, and I’ve found myself drawn to it ever since – it’s

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