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HOW TO DRESS WINDOWS REDESIGN A BEDROOM ELEGANT FIREPLACES THE COMFIEST ARMCHAIRS
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“TWO ALPACAS CHANGED MY LIFE!”
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❖ RENOVATED MINER’S COTTAGE ❖ NEW-BUILD BARN ❖ STUNNING LAKESIDE RETREAT ❖ VICTORIAN RESTORATION PROJECT
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THE HOME OF
modern country October 2020
INTERIORS & INSPIRATION 14 OCTOBER Things that make us happy 19 DESIGN NEWS What’s new in interiors this month 74 MAKE A HOUSE A HOME Pretty up your windows with these picture-perfect ideas 81 • NATURE’S PALETTE Choose colours inspired by autumn 88 KILIM PATTERNS Timeless geometric weaves that will lift a neutral room scheme 94 • MASTER BEDROOM IDEAS Turn your space into a sanctuary 102 • CHOOSE THE BEST… Armchairs to snuggle up in 106 • ROOM ELEMENTS Fabulous fireplaces 111 KITCHEN PROJECT A clever statement dining island
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116 RENOVATION GUIDE Upgrade your front door
COUNTRY HOMES
134 HOME TECH The best stand mixers
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20 • AUSTRALIAN COTTAGE A mindful renovation of a former miner’s cottage was the start of something special
137 • ON THE COVER
32 • WILTSHIRE NEW BUILD BARN Adding an adjoining barn to their cottage has given this couple plenty of room to host family and friends 44 • BUCKINGHAMSHIRE COTTAGE Sometimes stripping the décor back is the best way to make a house feel like a home 54 • ONTARIO NEW BUILD These owners proved that new properties can have just as much character as old ones PLUS GET-THE-LOOK IDEAS FOR EVERY HOME
94 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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81
GARDENS 121 IN A COUNTRY GARDEN Bird feeders and insect houses 122 DUE SOUTH This sunny Kent garden is teeming with wildlife
JUST FOR YOU
32 SEASONAL FOOD 135 IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN Our latest pantry additions
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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS CHRISTMAS SHOW Get into the festive spirit and pick up some unique gifts at this year’s must-visit show
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137 EVERYDAY EASY PERSIAN Spice up your weekday repertoire with these simple recipes
44 • ON THE COVER
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LIFESTYLE 65 RURAL HOTSPOT Get to know the castle town of Arundel in Sussex 66 • MY COUNTRY BUSINESS How a couple of alpacas completely changed Lou Archer’s life 93
LOCAL HERO Two neighbours came together with a creative idea to make great use of an old red phone box
130 LIVE LIFE WELL Happy thoughts and ideas for fashion, eco, wellbeing and more 133 COUNTRY PASSION Tabitha enjoys the calming effect horse riding has on her 150 MY FAVOURITE VIEW TV presenter Jenny Powell shares her favourite Peak District spot Subscribe to Country Homes & Interiors today from only £32.99! T&Cs apply. See page 72 for details.
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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
Country Homes & Interiors 0951-3019 is published monthly by Future Publishing Limited, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP, England. Distributed by MarketForce (UK), 3rd Floor, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP (020 3787 9001). Covers printed at Walstead Peterborough and text at Walstead Bicester Limited in the UK. We are committed to only using magazine paper which is derived from responsibly managed, certified forestry and chlorine-free manufacture. The paper in this magazine was sourced and produced from sustainable managed forests, conforming to strict environmental and socioeconomic standards. The manufacturing paper mill holds full FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification and accreditation. All contents © 2020 Future Publishing Limited or published under licence. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any way without the prior written permission of the publisher. Future Publishing Limited (company number 2008885) is registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All information contained in this publication is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Future cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. You are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this publication. Apps and websites mentioned in this publication are not under our control. We are not responsible for their contents or any other changes or updates to them. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with the companies mentioned herein. If you submit material to us, you warrant that you own the material and/or have the necessary rights/ permissions to supply the material and you automatically grant Future and its licensees a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in any/all issues and/or editions of publications, in any format published worldwide and on associated websites, social media channels and associated products. Any material you submit is sent at your own risk and, although every care is taken, neither Future nor its employees, agents, subcontractors or licensees shall be liable for loss or damage. We assume all unsolicited material is for publication unless otherwise stated, and reserve the right to edit, amend, adapt all submissions.
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wallpaperdirect.com designerpaint.com Make your home your own
Green A collection of authentic National Trust colours including original shades from the homes of Winston Churchill, George Bernard Shaw and Beatrix Potter. Available now. littlegreene.com 0161 230 0880
Order your free colourcard, or find your nearest stockist at littlegreene.com Colour Consultancy service available nationwide
The mood of the moment:
(BACKGROUND) TRIBES HORIZONTAL STRIPE FABRIC IN EARTH, £56M, JULIA BRENDEL
MELLOW MEMORIES Being a burner rather than a tanner, summer has never been my season and I’m always relieved when the autumn fogs and earthy smells begin. It has been a season tinged with sadness after my dad found out he was dying in autumn 2017 and the damp weather and drifts of leaves became associated with that time. But eventually the happy memories return to the mix and now they remind me of walks with him and our springer, Ziggy, when I was a teenager, plodding along in Dr Martens, picking up conkers and scanning the wet undergrowth for the dog, who would burst out, soaked and coated with burrs (which Dad would patiently tease out later), and with legs so shaky Dad would have to lift her into the car. Wishing you all the happy memories and present joys of autumn…
Vanessa x
P.S. Have you found us on Instagram, yet? Follow @countryhomesmag to get a sneak peek at beautiful homes and the inside track on interiors-industry news, events and people. No influencers, just a gentle slice of idyllic country life to give you a little escapism every dayÉ
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SA TIC VE K E £2 TS O ON N EN SA TR LE Y NO PR W IC E*
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CHRISTMAS SHOW 2020 Our festive fair will be back at Stonor Park near Henley-on-Thames 26-29 NOVEMBER
Timed tickets 10am-1pm and 1pm-4pm
THE BEST BOUTIQUE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS SHOW SAFE, FRIENDLY AND FULL OF SEASONAL SPIRIT!
*DISCOUNTED TICKET PRICES VALID UNTIL MONDAY 23 NOVEMBER 2020. PAY £10 INSTEAD OF £12 WHEN USING CODE EV286 AT CHECKOUT. ADDITIONAL COST FOR STONOR HOUSE TICKETS. TIMED TICKETS WILL BE SOLD ONLINE; CHOOSE 10AM-1PM OR 1PM-4PM
W
e’re thrilled to be back at Stonor Park for our annual Country Homes & Interiors Christmas Show – an unmissable festive fair featuring our favourite makers and artisan brands. BUY ALL YOUR GIFTS With so many stands to browse, you can blitz your Christmas gift list. Find presents and accessories, fashion and beauty buys, home decor, kids’ toys, men’s must-haves and much more. Plus, gourmet food and drink products. FEEL SAFE & SECURE We’re following expert guidance to keep our Christmas Show safe for visitors, with advance ticket sales, timed entrance to the event, a one-way route through our marquees and other safety measures in place. See ichfevents.co.uk/ countryhomeschristmas for details. EXPLORE OUR STAND Visit our stunning room set, full of inspiring decor ideas to recreate in your own home. With thanks to our partners Charnwood and Sanderson. VISIT STONOR HOUSE You can combine shopping at the Christmas Show with a visit to Stonor House, decorated for a Romantic Christmas.
DON’T MISS OUT!
Go to ichfevents.co. uk/countryhomes christmas; use code EV286 to save £2 on entry
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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Halloween harvest suppers accompanied by ambient lighting and crisp country air. For a similar table, try Neptune. Cox & Cox sells similar dining chairs. For similar tableware and glassware, try Rowen & Wren. Nordic Nest’s outdoor lamps, are a good match
Things that make us happy...
OCTOBER
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C O U N T R Y D AY S
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4 1 Dancing shadows and light patterns illuminating the garden on starry nights. Floor standing Dalia lantern, £83.75, The Norfolk Bay Company 2 Striking preserved flower arrangements with exotic, jewel-toned combinations for an on-trend alternative. Barocco preserved flowers bouquet, £49, Shida 3 A sustainable centrepiece to display on the wall or dining table. Seagrass deco leaf, £20, Chickidee 4 Frothy hot chocolate in a quirky vessel. Inka stoneware mug in Caramel, £16.95, Rose & Grey
Bolstering the boot room with strong and sturdy wooden helpers. Wellie boot stand, £90; Wellie boot jack, £50; Polka paws large pet bowl, £29.95, all Emma Bridgewater
Pretty florals flourishing between get-warm layers. Aurelie dress, £79.95; Oakland coat in Marine Navy, £169, both Joules
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8 7 5 Bold, mono geometrics leading the way on stand-out flatweaves. Rug, £125, Next Home 6 Introducing authentic texture and earthy hues with shapely baked clay characters. Small antique terracotta earthenware pot, £195, Cooling & Cooling 7 Rescuing ice-block tootsies with gorgeously fluffy, handmade slip-ons! Lambswool and sheepskin slippers in Grey Check, £55, Catherine Tough 8 Getting the log pile chopped and stacked for the hibernating season ahead. Loop log ring, £150, Morso COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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Spicing things up in the kitchen with an adventure through rich grains. Seagrass storage baskets, £35 each; circle wooden wine rack, £45; chopping boards and platters, from £40 each; patterned pots, from £25 each, all Amara
9 A vintage tabletop addition featuring etched detailing and an aged brass patina. Antique glass decanter, £270, Ceraudo 10 Tactile silhouettes transforming statement lighting in natural materials. Thaker large bamboo easy-fit light shade, £75, Habitat 11 Channel allotment vibes with charming vegetableinspired glazeware. Small onion plate 2, £45, Rosamund Coady 12 Foraging for seasonal delights in orchards of hedgerows and forests. Arurog basket, £129, Bloomingville
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16 15 13 Reflecting style savvy with streamlined curves and smooth finishes. Oak round mirror, £495, John Lewis & Partners 14 Warming up with a graphic pattern on a beautifully soft, Yorkshire weave. Dash blanket in Pearl Grey, £225, Anna-Lisa Smith 15 Unwinding the senses with vibrant blackcurrant, tuberose and aquatic sea moss scents. Swell sunset incense cones, £26, Dor & Tan 16 New season living space updates with a flurry of unique, artisan designs. Sei print cushion cover, £55, Toast 16
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
Welcoming guests with a rustic bench (and a fourlegged-friend greeting!) Malay bench, £365; cane shelf, £85; seagrass leaf doormat, £32; velvet cushions, £35 each, all Graham and Green.
C O U N T R Y D AY S
Things that make us happy...
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHS EMMA LEE/TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
GRATEFUL GATHERINGS – BE ❝ THAT AROUND A FIREPIT, DINING TABLE OR PUMPKIN PATCH ❞
Cosying up with favourite souls in a cocoon of enduring materials. Striped cotton flannel bedding, from £32; checked cotton flannel bedding, from £32; Logo cotton twill pillow cover in White, £49; checked boucle throw, £159, all Lexington
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The Beauty of Bespoke
Smart Blinds for Luxury light control
Book a consultation: 0800 688 8118 or visit thomas-sanderson.co.uk
NEW & INTERESTING
DESIGN NEWS Paint from Cox & Cox
Padukka curtains, from £45; cushion, £25; Lintu cushion, £20, all Scion x Next Home
This season, a fresh lick of paint comes in a carefully considered palette from perennial homeware brand, Cox & Cox. Spanning 16 soothing shades including essential neutrals, definitive greys, timeless blues and trend-led statement hues, the collection uses earth pigments for effortless application and coverage. The range is virtually solvent- and odour-free, making it kind to you, your family and the environment. Available in both matt emulsion and eggshell finishes, from £50 for 2.5ltr.
ZOE DOES FRAGRANCES Echoing the essence of her signature fabric collections, Zoe Glencross’ latest offerings travel from cloth to flame (literally!). Beautifully presented in a honeycomb keepsake box, the luxurious soy wax candles make a gorgeously scented home addition or gift for a loved one. Prices start at £35 for a single wick, rising to £75 for a triple wick.
Everhot goes miniature
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS
Cosy-up all manner of nooks from shepherd’s huts to glamping pods with Everhot’s petite but thermopunching room heater. The striking cast iron design even includes a full temperature-controlled cooking oven and top simmer plate. Electric stove in Mustard Yellow, £995, Everhot.
SCION LIVING AT NEXT HOME Presenting Scandi-inspired designs and fresh ideas for modern living in zesty combinations, lifestyle favourites Next Home and Scion have partnered to launch an exclusive capsule collection of trend-led homeware and fashion pieces. Cheerful highlights include statement window dressings, rugs, cushions, contemporary wall art and lighting, as well as two playful nursery collections. Available exclusively at next.co.uk and in selected stores.
Sam Wilson on our walls Display advocates and wildlife enthusiasts alike will be chirpy to hear that illustrator and designer Sam Wilson is launching four new wall hangings to brighten up our hallways and beyond this autumn. The pieces feature a medley of British countryside characters – we adore the Badger and Crow wall hanging (right), £85, Sam Wilson. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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HEART & SOUL
The mindful renovation of a former miner’s cottage by Sandy McKinley and Rob Roy sparked a love for the home they created – and each other
A U S T R A L I A N C O T TA G E
Living room Pops of green add freshness to the neutral scheme. Reupholstered sofa, The Upholstery House. Rug, The Rug Collection. Coffee table, Provincial Home Living
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THE PROPERTY IS MORE THAN JUST ❝ FOUR WALLS – IT HAS SOUL, PURPOSE AND MEANING AND RESETS THE NATURAL RHYTHM FOR EVERYONE WHO STAYS
❞
Dining area The open-plan space allows key pieces to take centre stage. Portrait print, Pascal Amblard. For a comparable dining table, try Gilli Hanna Antiques. Chairs, sourced by Belle Hemming from Inside Story
A U S T R A L I A N C O T TA G E
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ature is working its magic in rural Trentham, Australia, assisted by the nurturing touch of Sandy McKinley and Rob Roy, the creative force behind Acre of Roses. Their plot includes a former miner’s cottage, artfully transformed into a wellness retreat, a sustainable micro flower farm planted by the couple, and a venue for workshops and weddings. ‘I grew up on the coast surrounded by land, sea and flowers,’ says Sandy. ‘My late father was an aviation designer for Air New Zealand and our home was always alive with neighbours, friends and international colleagues. I wanted to replicate that energy and harboured a desire to create a rural guest retreat.’ For 20 years, Sandy’s work took a different path, until in 2007 she found the cottage and swapped a marketing career for country life – making the move from Melbourne to Trentham. ‘I wanted to step back, live more mindfully and realise my long-held dreams,’ she says. Although wild and rambling, the plot resonated good vibes and with the help of local master builder Rob Roy, a specialist in period properties, work began. Two bedrooms were knocked together, creating a more capacious space; the elevations of a dated 1970s extension were raised to incorporate a main bedroom and bathroom; a boot room was built and original pine floors insulated and restored. What started as a platonic friendship between Sandy and Rob slowly developed alongside the renovation and last year the couple married. ‘We became soul mates – it has made the renovation even more special,’ says Sandy. ‘I worked with the inspirational Belle Hemming from Inside Story to develop the “Hamptons-meets-country” interior, choosing hero pieces such as the Fornasetti wallpaper and Jessica Zoob handmade fabric cushions.’ Throughout, a palette of off-whites, soft greens, grey and stone are accented with brighter pops of mustard. ‘I wanted it to feel luxurious, yet effortless and relaxed. Belle united colours, textiles and antiques, including my favourite hutch dresser that I bought 30 years ago.’ Rob also has a keen eye for salvaged pieces and transforms dilapidated finds into statement features, including the Victorian miner’s front door – recycled, scrubbed and lacquered – and the patina-rich, antique floorboards that morphed into a striking headboard. The insulated indoor/outdoor movie theatre room was also built by Rob. ‘It is everyone’s favourite spot. In colder months, you can hop between this and the cedarwood hot tub, which uses therapeutic, natural mineral salts and rainwater.’ When the opportunity arose to purchase 1500 David Austin perfumed rose plants from a local merchant, the couple could not resist. Planted in the paddock behind the house, the roses, along with seasonal cut flowers and herbs, are used regularly for events and weddings, hosted on the land. Acre of Roses has become synonymous with wellbeing. ‘You can remain totally reclusive, or immerse yourself in floral and forest therapy workshops, yoga classes and artist retreats here. We feel like the custodians of something very special, it has changed our lives and we never take it for granted.’
AT HOM E WI T H Owners Sandy McKinley and Rob Roy live here with Keegan, their Irish soft-coated wheaten terrier. They run their business Acre of Roses (acreofroses.com. au, @acreofroses on Instagram) – a wellness retreat, flower farm and wedding/workshop venue – from here.
House A timber-framed, single-storey miner’s cottage, built in 1860.
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Kitchen A floor-to-ceiling chalkboard is a fun and practical edition. Pendant, Milk & Honey Vintage
A U S T R A L I A N C O T TA G E
Dining room Original period details, such as the Baltic Pine floors, add to the character. Similar chandelier, Brownrigg
Boot room Built by Rob, this practical space was a new addition during the renovation.
Dining room Home-grown roses complement the mustard yellow of the window seat. Similar clock, Newgate World.
Hallway The house is filled with wonderfully unique pieces. Similar basket, edit58
Garden Sandy and Rob’s land is full of delights.
Dining room Open shelving adds to the cosy cottage vibe. Ceramics, Provincial Home Living
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A U S T R A L I A N C O T TA G E
Bedroom Floaty curtains add a romantic feel. Throw, Bemboka. Bed linen, Cultiver
Bedroom Statement wallpaper takes centre stage. Wallpaper, Riflesso by Fornasetti at Cole & Son
Bathroom An antique roll-top is framed by special pieces. Mirror, Sibella Court
Acre of Roses The roses grown on the land are used at events and weddings held on site.
Bedroom Rob created this striking headboard from salvaged floorboards. Similar pendant light, Holloways of Ludlow
Theatre room This space can be enjoyed year round. Wicker chairs, Early Settler
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Bathroom Striking walls provide a dramatic backdrop for the cast-iron bath. Walls in Domino, Dulux. Basins, Early Settler
THE HAMPTONS-MEETS-COUNTRY ❝ DECOR HAS A PALETTE OF OFF-WHITES, SOFT GREENS, GREY AND STONE❞
A U S T R A L I A N C O T TA G E
Veranda
ON OUR D OOR STEP Visit… ‘RedBeard Historic Bakery (redbeardbakery.com.au) in Trentham. They have one of the few working traditional Scotch ovens and their fermented sourdough bread is delicious.’ Shop at… ’Atelier Chocolat (atelierchocolat.com.au). Laetitia Hoffmann is a traditional French chocolatier who hand makes divine chocolates and cakes.’
Go for a meal at… ‘Annie Smithers, Du Fermier (anniesmithers.com.au) for gorgeous, seasonal meals made with produce from Annie’s farm.’
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WORDS ALI HEATH STYLING BELLE HEMMING PHOTOGRAPHS MARNIE HAWSON
A hanging chair creates a carefree escape to relax and read. Hanging chair, HK Living. Wicker stool, Early Settler
A different perspective Some furniture is made for the here and now. Some is built to stand the test of time. At Neptune, we believe that the best can do both. Because good design never gets old.
Book an appointment to chat to one of our friendly designers – on us. neptune.com
GET THE LOOK
Be inspired by SANDY’S KITCHEN Line up crunchy cereal, grains and salad toppers in appealing shapes. Belmont medium glass jar, £39, Neptune
CH&I
MODERN Country CLASSIC
Timeless designs relish a modern update with LED technology. Butler pendant light in Matt Black, £79.20, Jim Lawrence
Display plates with pride in a distressed painted unit. Lyon range wall mounted plate rack in Cream, £92.95, Melody Maison
Its rhythmic texture is handwoven from elevated loops of jute. Salaya rug in Ivory, £129, Urbanara
Wake-up with a baristaworthy buzz and over 100 customised configurations! Madame coffee machine, €2,800, La Scala
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS
Sandy’s style tip...
KEEP COUNTER SPACE CLUTTER-FREE AND FOOD PREP READY WITH WALL-HUNG AND BUILT-IN STORAGE AND DISPLAY SOLUTIONS
Organise your daily ‘life’ menu from am matcha to pm yoga. Coffee shop sixmagnet sliding blackboard, £219, Maisons du Monde
Fill a basket with blushing blooms for a pretty flourish. Faux rose stem in Pale Pink, £12, Oka
This clean glazed ceramic makes washing-up more bubble than trouble. Ellis countertop basin, £89.99, Mode at Victoria Plum
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SIMPLE PLEASURE Having renovated their cottage, Joanna and Simon Binder built an adjoining barn for family and friends to stay in, decorating it with a stylish, Scandi feel
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W I LT S H I R E N E W B U I L D B A R N
Exterior The English country garden that Joanna and Simon restored is in bloom from February until November. Barn architecture, Mackenzie Wheeler. Barn constructed by English Oak Buildings
Living room Joanna and Simon felt smaller window panes would be more in keeping with the main house. Walls in Dimity, Farrow & Ball. Carter coffee table; cushions, all Neptune
J AT HOME WITH Owners Joanna Binder is the managing director of interior design firm Sims Hilditch and her husband Simon works in the restaurant business. Their main house is a worker’s cottage built in the early 19th century where they live with their red setter Lily.
House A two bedroom barn extension built in 2018.
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oanna and Simon Binder are known in their circle of friends as fantastic hosts. For Simon, who works in the restaurant business, and Joanna, who is the managing director of interior design firm Sims Hilditch, cooking and entertaining comes naturally. In 2010, the couple, who had enjoyed many weekends in the countryside around Bath, moved permanently to a cottage in a Wiltshire village. After renovating the cottage, building the new barn extension was the game changer that allowed them to cater for all their friends and extended family who come to visit. The barn replaces some old stables and is connected to the kitchen in the cottage via a brick-built corridor that has become a walk-through pantry with wine fridges and a bar. ‘Renovating the house took up all of our budget so we put the barn on hold and completed it just two years ago,’ says Joanna. ‘We used the same architect as for the house, Mackenzie Wheeler, and had already been granted planning permission with the renovation of the cottage. The intention was that it would be more of a self-contained unit family members could use when they came to stay. We also wanted it to be a living space we could use for entertaining. When people are staying we can close the door and >
W I LT S H I R E N E W B U I L D B A R N
Dining area Steel chairs and a pendant light give an updated industrial twist to the traditional scheme. The screed floor has become shiny through use creating its own patina. Tolix-style metal chairs, Cult Furniture
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W I LT S H I R E N E W B U I L D B A R N
WE DIDN’T CONDITION THE OAK ❝SO IT HAS TAKEN ON AN AGED,
SILVERED LOOK THAT RESEMBLES THE FARM BUILDINGS IT REPLACED
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Dining area
The lightweight construction of the steel staircase ensures there is a free-flowing openness to the space. Table, Carl Hansen & Son at Nest. Console table, Habitat
Bathroom
Bedroom
The pale wood veneer matches the kitchen island, bringing a cohesive look. Metro tiles with black grouting are low maintenance. Taps and shower head, Axor Starck at CP Hart
A Juliet balcony takes advantage of the view down the valley. Both flooring and ceiling reflect the long axis of the barn. Lansdown chair, Lloyd Loom. Ludde sheepskin, Ikea
Exterior The front garden was previously all gravel but Joanna and Simon laid a lawn and have planted fruit trees
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leave them to it, and when it’s just us, we tend to spread into the barn, using it every day.’ The barn took about a year to build and watching it was quite exciting. ‘The framework was erected first, so for a long time we had the oak structure and then the wood surround was added afterwards,’ says Joanna. The build was not without its complications. ‘We had issues with the drainage and had to dig up the garden. For the underfloor heating, we had to run the cables through the garden but we didn’t dig the trenches deep enough so had to dig up the garden yet another time, which was pretty stressful. We were in a rush as we wanted to get the barn built in time for Christmas,’ Joanna explains. A week before the family were due to arrive the barn was finished. ‘There was a point where it was starting to cost as much as the house had cost and it seemed ridiculous. But seeing it all come to life at Christmas was just wonderful. All the fires were lit and we had a big Christmas tree with lots of children running around. We had Christmas lunch in the barn cooking for 12, then on Boxing Day we put together two trestle tables and had 25 for lunch. Three days later Simon’s family came to stay and we did the whole thing again.’ The English oak frame gives the barn much of its charm with two bedrooms tucked into the rafters. ‘We >
W I LT S H I R E N E W B U I L D B A R N
Bedroom Joanna combines crisp white sheets and woven throws with cushions in fleece and velvet for textural detail. Bed linen, The White Company
WHOLE LOOK AND FEEL IS SLIGHTLY SCANDI, ❝ THE WHICH IS OUR PREFERRED INTERIOR STYLE ❞
W I LT S H I R E N E W B U I L D B A R N
Bedroom
ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit ... ’Dyrham Park (nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park), a 17th-century house, garden and deer park. It has beautiful gardens, scenery and art, so there’s something for everyone.’ Shop at ... ‘Marshfield Country Stores (marshfieldcountrystores. com). Run by two sisters, they know all their customers and offer everything from grocery essentials to homemade cakes, oven-ready meals and freshly-made sandwiches. All with a smile and a friendly chat.’
Go for a meal at ... ‘The Vine Tree at Norton (thevinetree.co.uk). It’s a privately owned, traditional, friendly pub with local produce that changes daily and has a great wine list’
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wanted to keep the bedrooms simple and clean, with a hotel-like feel. We added texture with sheepskin rugs and made the beds cosy with plenty of cushions. In the larger bedroom, you can watch the moon setting through the skylight.’ The downstairs is one large room containing a dining and kitchen area and, slightly stepped down, the sitting area featuring deep sofas, a log burner and far-reaching views of the valley. ‘The whole look and feel is slightly Scandinavian, which is our preferred interior style. The first time the family came to stay we had only a few pieces of essential furniture and we’ve added more pieces over time. We haven’t yet hung any art, but I’m planning to put an art shelf up above the kitchen island so that we can change the pictures on display every so often.’ Being surrounded by so many trees makes autumn at the Binders’ home a seasonal highlight. ‘The changing colour of the leaves down in the valley is sensational. There are so many beautiful woodland walks around here and it’s wonderful to come back to roaring fires. It’s also lovely to walk through the village when the brook is at its peak and really rushing by.’ As settled country dwellers, the Binders will be welcoming their city friends to their bolthole for many more dinners to come.
FEATURE JULIET BENNING PHOTOGRAPHS ADAM CARTER
Both guest rooms have benches at the foot of the bed, convenient for dressing. Minimal furnishings keep the mood relaxed and laid back. Reclaimed bench, Nkuku
HOLLOWAYS CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY LIVING
ENCHANTING LIVING AND DINING FURNITURE Holloways, Lower Court, Suckley,Worcestershire, WR6 5DE www.holloways.co.uk
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO FIND YOUR NEAREST STOCKIST PLEASE VISIT WWW.TETRAD.CO.UK
GET THE LOOK
Be inspired by JOANNA’S BEDROOM Introduce sumptuous luxury with a rare breed sheepskin. Gotlands rug in Grey, £275, Celtic & Co
Natural materials give everyday storage a look of rustic charm. Stripe basket, £26, Sweetpea & Willow
Defrost cold toes with a cosy treat for feet! Ladies’ mule sheepskin slippers in Chestnut, £29.99, Jacobs & Dalton
Organise your seasonal wardrobe with Scandi-style simplicity. Bamboo clothes rail with shelf, £150, House by John Lewis & Partners
CH&I
MODERN Country CLASSIC
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS
This unique design celebrates grainy details for an authentic look. Distressed cross leg bedside table, £325, Cox & Cox
Opt for contemporary farmhouse style with a chalky finish. Spacia flooring in White Ash, from £40sq m, Amtico
Banish chills with traditional weaves, subtle patterns and tactile textures. Fishbone wool blanket in Navy Blue, £52, James & May
JoannaÕs style tip...
A SIMPLE BEDSTEAD NESTLES COMFORTABLY INTO THE EAVES, MAKING AN UNCONVENTIONAL SPACE FUNCTIONAL AND WELCOMING
Hunker-down nights should always involve a scattering of super-softies. Cotton velvet cushion in Charcoal, £30, Cotswold Co
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ORIGINAL STYLE Naomi Stuart has stripped back layers of decoration to enhance the period beauty of her Victorian cottage 44
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B U C K I N G H A M S H I R E C O T TA G E
Kitchen A curved breakfast bar creates space for eating and working, as well as giving the room a sense of flow. Absolute Blanc Quartz Glace worktops and matt white units, Neil’s Kitchens & Interiors. Walls, Empire Grey by Zoffany at Style Library
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Kitchen Beyond the minimalist kitchen, the dining room provides contrast as it is full of beautifully restored wood. Stools, Cox & Cox. Clock, and cushions, John Lewis & Partners
S
AT HOME WITH Owners Naomi Stuart and her partner Richard Fetherston bought the cottage in 2013. They run Snowbility (snowbility.co.uk), providing snow sports coaching to people with additional needs and mental health challenges. They live here with Radley the dog, and cats Jasper and Poppy. House Two-bedroom Victorian cottage in a conservation area.
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even years ago, when they realised their new romance had turned into something more serious, Naomi Stuart and her partner Richard Fetherston felt it was time to swap their two separate houses in two different Hertfordshire towns for a home they would choose, renovate and decorate together. After viewing 45 properties, the couple finally gave this quaint Victorian cottage in a peaceful Buckinghamshire village due consideration. ‘It was a little further away from our business in Hemel Hempstead than we would have liked,’ says Naomi, a marketing and PR manager, ‘which is why we initially discounted it. But with options running out and the sale of my previous house near completion we thought we should take a look. ‘When we saw the cottage, our reservations disappeared,’ she continues. ‘The potential to reveal the original beauty in the building once we peeled back the many layers of decoration was undeniable; and as outdoorsy people, we could both imagine how our new life together would be enriched with the countryside right on our doorstep.’ Naomi recorded their renovation story on Instagram (@grove_cottage_). Having moved into the cottage just before Christmas 2013, the initial phase of work took place in the early months of the following year, and included attending to some potential woodworm in a few of the beams and a >
B U C K I N G H A M S H I R E C O T TA G E
IS AN IMPORTANT FEATURE OF ❝THEWOOD COTTAGE. WE REMOVED THE DARK STAIN FROM THE BEAMS BY HAND TO RESTORE THEIR ORIGINAL COLOUR
❞
Dining room Household bleach was used to bring back the original charm of the old table and chairs. French farmhouse table, The Old Flight House. Antique mirror, French Antique Warehouse
THE DOORS WEREN’T MADE FOR ❝OUR BIG SOFAS BUT BUYING NEW ONES ADDED TO THE EXCITEMENT OF OUR FIRST HOME TOGETHER
❞
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B U C K I N G H A M S H I R E C O T TA G E
Living room Naomi had to think carefully about the scale of the furniture. Two-seater sofa in Soft Grey velvet, Distinctive Chesterfields. Antique armchair, Antique French Chair and Sofa Co; reupholstered in Ditsy Blue cotton, from Peter John Interiors. Foot stool, Willow & Hall. Antique cast-iron fire surround, Barn Fireplaces
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Bathroom
Bedroom
Naomi has dressed the neutral scheme with pretty vintage finds. Bath suite, Villeroy & Boch. For a similar zinc milk churn, try eBay
The centrepiece of the scheme is the French antique style bed. Bed, M&S. French mannequin, Ardingly Antiques Fair. Carpet, Allfloors
Bedroom This little niche makes a handy spot for furniture. Chest of drawers, Swoon. Distressed mirror, The Old Flight House. Vintage books, Reclectic. Carpet, Allfloors
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slight damp problem in the living room. ‘At the same time, we swapped the modern white radiators for a traditional cast iron design,’ explains Naomi, ‘and added electricity and sturdy boarding to the loft so we would have some much-needed extra storage space; combining two homes into one is tricky enough at the best of times, but especially so in a two-bedroom cottage – and we soon realised its quirky door sizes and tight spaces were not designed to accommodate our large sofas and long furniture, but having to source new pieces just added to the excitement of buying my first home with Richard.’ The couple were also keen to bring out the best in all the original doors, floorboards and beams, wood being one of the most important features of this charming home. It was pretty hard going, though, as Naomi explains: ‘Over the years they had all been stained dark, but as we wanted to restore their original colour while retaining the signs of wear and age, rather than using a sander – which would have obliterated them – we carefully removed the stain by hand, using paint remover, a scraper and wire wool, after which we treated everything with Danish oil to protect the wood.’ Phase two of the renovation took place from 2017 to 2019. ‘By this point we had lived in the cottage for a few years and figured out how we use the space,’ says Naomi. ‘Only then did we feel able to properly plan the >
B U C K I N G H A M S H I R E C O T TA G E
Living room An armchair by the fire provides a cosy spot to sit when the weather is chilly. Antique armchair, Antique French Chair and Sofa Co; reupholstered in Ditsy Blue cotton, from Peter John Interiors
WE STRIPPED AWAY WALLPAPER AND TRANSFORMED ❝THE INTERIOR WITH A FRENCH-INSPIRED SCHEME ❞
Main bedroom As there is asymmetry in the beams, Naomi felt there was a need for symmetry with the bed, side tables and lamps. Upholstered and buttoned bed, Feather & Black
B U C K I N G H A M S H I R E C O T TA G E
ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit ... ‘Waddesdon Manor (waddesdon.org.uk). This National Trust property is home to the amazing Rothschild Collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative art. The grounds are beautiful and are home to fantastic events throughout the year.’ Shop at ... ‘Parrott Brothers Farm Shop and Butchers (parrottbros.co.uk) and PE Mead & Sons Farm Shop & Tea Room (pemeadandsons.co.uk) provide homemade goods and locally sourced meats and produce.’ Go for a meal at ... ‘Five Elms (fiveelmsweedon.com). We love this intimate 400-year-old thatched inn offering delicious home-cooked English food.’
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changes to fit in with our lifestyle; and as this is a conservation area we had given ourselves time to obtain the necessary permissions for some of the work – such as adding French doors to replace the window in the kitchen, and building a double-dormer in the main bedroom to allow for a small en suite wet room upstairs.’ So, three years ago, with all the paperwork finally in place and a couple of trusty tradespeople ready to help them here and there, the pair rolled up their sleeves once more to strip back layer upon layer of wallpaper, carpet, tiles and crazy paving. ‘It’s amazing how much came out of this little cottage,’ says Naomi, who, with Richard, has transformed the interior with a subtle French-inspired scheme, ‘not least the huge fireplaces in the living room and dining room, and some invasive weeds and fungi outside. But we are delighted with how it looks now, and not one day goes by that I don’t feel grateful for our home and this incredible location. A picturesque walk can start as soon as we step out the front door; plus, we have barn owls and deer in the fields at the back, plenty of red kites to spot, daily visits from woodpeckers to our bird feeders, and geese fly over the cottage every morning and evening; and there’s something so lovely about the sound of horses’ hooves trotting by every day. Now, more than ever, this place is a real sanctuary.’
FEATURE NAOMI JONES PHOTOGRAPHS BRENT DARBY
The surrounding Buckinghamshire countryside is perfect for taking Radley for a walk
GET THE LOOK
Be inspired by NAOMI’S DINING ROOM Shine the light on your table with an industrial accent. Denman wall light, £34, Soho Lighting at Elesi
Comfy up seating for lounge-atleisure brunches. Country ticking seat pad in Suffolk Grey, £15.99, Walton & Co
Enhance the natural light with the epitome of French elegance. Jeanne mirror, £274, Maisons du Monde Dress your tabletop with flowers that last a lifetime. Country garden bouquet (artificial), £105, Wyld Home
NaomiÕs style tip...
Frame your garden view with a classic polka dot pattern. The Littletons fabric in Indigo, £86m, Cloth & Clover
INCORPORATE ANTIQUE FINDS IN WORN, WARM WOODS TO ADD AUTHENTIC CHARM TO A MODERN EXTENSION
A striking mountainscape transports the imagination far and away. A long way down boxed canvas, £950, Nel Whatmore
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS
CH&I Keep things rosy and cosy with an elegant grate. Nottage cast-iron fireplace (hearth not included), £482, Cast Fireplaces
Space for the whole family to gather. Ash refectory dining table, £799, Grosvenor Furniture
MODERN Country CLASSIC
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Kitchen White shiplap cladding injects a breezy, coastal vibe while rough wooden beams make the house appear much older. Work surfaces, Caesarstone. Industry stools, Maisons du Monde, would work here
O N TA R I O N E W B U I L D
LAKESIDE RETREAT Lynne and John Raimondi built their stunning home to make the most of the waterside views, using reclaimed beams and local stone to enhance the rustic feel
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Kitchen
Entrance
Black cabinets with steel strapping and a stainless steel counter bring an industrial feel. The Rocky wall lamp, Holloways of Ludlow, is similar
A covered porch provides shelter for visitors. The herringbone brickwork gives the garden an older, historical feel
L
AT HOME WITH... Owners Lynne and John Raimondi. John runs Meridian Design Build (meridianinc.ca) constructing bespoke lakeside homes. They have two daughters, Olivia, 14 and Sofia, 11 and a yellow labrador called Crosby.
House A four-bedroom, lakeside house in Innisfil, Ontario, Canada, built in 2016. The couple moved in 2017.
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ynne and John Raimondi didn’t have far to go to find their dream plot. Three minutes from their previous family home, a plot came up for sale that was too tempting to resist. ‘We had spent five years building our old home, but this was a much bigger plot with more privacy, positioned in a bay of the lake,’ says Lynne. Lake Simcoe provides much of the focus of family life and the couple were able to exploit their new position by building a dock from which they could sunbathe, and where their watersports boat is moored. ‘We try to get out on the lake wakeboarding and tubing as much as we can,’ says Lynne. Once the four-acre plot had been purchased, John, whose company Meridian Design Build constructs lakeside homes, was in his element. The couple were keen not just to create a replica of the traditional homes of the area, but to summon the mood of a farmhouse with an unexpected industrial twist. This scheme is most obvious in the ‘great room’, which combines kitchen, dining and living rooms. For the living area, a woodburning fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out toward the lake were non-negotiables. ‘I was not prepared to compromise on those,’ Lynne says. Rustic beams were sourced from a 125-year-old barn, and local stone has been used to add texture to the fireplace. The couple commissioned interior designer Lidia Van Zyl to help them strike the perfect balance between >
O N TA R I O N E W B U I L D
WE WANTED AN AUTHENTIC ❝ FARMHOUSE LOOK SO WE CHOSE OLD STONE AND TIMBER FOR THE BUILD ❞
Dining area Lynne and John designed the great room as a space that can accommodate a crowd when needed. The J42 wood armchairs, by Hay at Made In Design would work here COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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Hallway A pale unpainted wooden table marries beautifully with the textural accents of the woven rug and wicker basket. Walls in Cloud White, Benjamin Moore
modern functionality and a sense of the home being authentically rooted in its landscape. ‘The main room manages to feel cosy despite the glass wall, and makes sitting by the fire feel all the more warming when you get such wild views. In autumn, we get a lot of windy days with high waves breaking on the lake and the house, which faces west and is perfect for watching sunsets, is surrounded by the striking colour of the changing leaves. It’s my favourite season,’ Lynne enthuses. With family and hosting at the heart of the Raimondis’ lifestyle, the kitchen informed much of the palette of the entire ground floor. ‘The stove was the catalyst. We designed all the elements of the kitchen and its colours around it,’ says Lynne. Black industrial pendant lights, cabinetry, stools and chairs anchor the look, bringing contrast to the warm, rustic quality of the wood. ‘We can seat 14 guests at the dinner table and there’s also the screened porch where we can accommodate another six, and six on the patio too,’ says Lynne. A huge Caesarstone worktop offers a sociable space on which to prepare food and chat over drinks. The metallic trim on the stove and cabinets hints at an ever so slightly ‘steampunk’ vibe in a highly original take on a country kitchen. Another practical space for an active young family is the mud room, where a remnant from Lynne and John’s high school days makes an appearance. ‘The lockers > 58
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O N TA R I O N E W B U I L D
Living room Casual, sand-toned sofas and a pair of leather chairs are inviting and wellsuited to the dimensions of the space. Sallisaw wagon wheel chandelier, Wayfair, is similar. Albany sofas from SofaSofa are a match
Mud room A practical herringbone tile floor is a robust solution to this high-traffic space. Try Industriel metal wardrobe 180, from Tikamoon for a similar look
ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit… ‘There are amazing beaches all along the Lake Simcoe waterfront and plenty of great walking trails. Innisfil Beach Park is a great location for picnics, dog walks and swimming. Kempenfelt Bay leading into Barrie is a good spot for ice fishing.’
Shop at… ‘Harbour Home Interiors (harbourhomeinteriors.com) is a lovely shop for the home with plenty of gift ideas, gorgeous linens and accessories. Similarly, Halliday House & Co in nearby Cookstown (hallidayhouseandco.com) has beautiful homeware and flowers.’
Go for a meal at… ‘The lakeside resort Friday Harbour (fridayharbour.com). It has a series of restaurants, all with tasty food and waterside tables.’
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were reclaimed from our school, where we met. They were a bright blue, so we painted them to match the slate floor,’ Lynne says. ‘And there’s four of them, so we each have one.’ Four large cast-iron hooks add easy functionality. ‘The kids can grab their school bags, or their hockey or soccer bags and just head out,’ she adds. ‘We don’t have to store those things in other rooms.’ An antique church pew and chalkboard chime in with the vintage school house look. Upstairs, the bedrooms continue the simple country style with wrought iron black bed frames and white walls, the natural materials of seagrass and rattan bringing textural interest. ‘I placed two queen beds in our only guest room, so we can get a whole family in there and we are intending to expand upwards into the loft space to create more guest rooms soon,’ says Lynne. The Raimondis always host Thanksgiving, which in Canada lands on the second Monday in October. ‘I love creating table settings, with my inspiration coming from the changing seasons,’ says Lynne. A raw linen table runner and woven raffia place mats inject texture while cut glass brings sparkle. The black candles and pumpkins tie in with the wider themes in the house. With the family spending much of the day outside, once it gets cold, the house beckons them back in with the promise of cosy fireside evenings. Interiors by Lidia van Zyl Design, lvzdesign.com
O N TA R I O N E W B U I L D
Bedroom A wrought iron bed, summery striped cotton blanket and seagrass rug bring a cottage feel to this crisp scheme. The Oliver bed, Feather & Black is a match. Marno jute rug, Maisons du Monde would work here
FEATURE JULIET BENNING PHOTOGRAPHS GAP INTERIORS/ROBIN STUBBERT
BEDROOMS ARE DECORATED ❝INTHE SIMPLE COUNTRY STYLE, WITH IRON BEDS AND JUTE RUGS ❞
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GET THE LOOK
Be inspired by LYNNE’S LIVING ROOM CH&I
MODERN Country CLASSIC
Open up any space with a framed lightbouncer above the fireplace. Elderton wall accent mirror, £138.49, Mercury Row at Wayfair
Crown a vintage-rustic style scheme with a suspended ring design. Chevalier 12-pendant light, £199.79, Gallery Direct at House of Isabella Create an extra cosy ambience with glowing clusters of candlelight. Lantern candle holder, £80, John Lewis & Partners
Modern-industrial style with a touch-itto-believe-it design. Slate stone wall-effect wallpaper, £92 a roll, Today Interiors at Lime Lace
LynneÕs style tip...
CHOOSE STATEMENT LIGHTING AND A FOCAL POINT FEATURE WALL TO GIVE A HIGH-CEILING SPACE PERSONALITY AND INVITING APPEAL
The looped weave gives a delightfully soft finish. Ravi wool rug in Natural White, £569, Urbanara
Display assorted decorative gourds for a stylish Halloween. Serafina pumpkin in Black/Gold, £18, Lene Bjerre at Nordic Nest 62
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Generous proportions mix drawing room elegance with luxurious lounging. Isla four-seater sofa in Pumice House Basket Weave, £1,880, Sofa.com
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS
Complement neutral seating with subtle, embroidered pattern pops. Geotile cushion, £120, Niki Jones
Sorry, this seat’s taken. Customise your sofa – 50 styles and 50 fabrics online at swooneditions.com
Sutton three-seater from £1,499 Available in 28 fabrics
Furniture for the home obsessed swooneditions.com 020 3319 6332
It’s time to make a change
for good
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Visit energyforchange.com to kickstart your change today.
RURAL HOTSPOT
LET’S MOVE TO
Arundel
A MARKET TOWN SUFFUSED WITH HISTORY AND SET AGAINST A FAIRYTALE BACKDROP
FEATURE SOPHIE GALE. PHOTOGRAPHS ROB COLE PHOTOGRAPHY/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; ARUN DISTRICT COUNCIL. EVENTS CORRECT AT TIME OF WRITING, PEGASUS PROPERTIES ESTATE AGENTS
A
rundel Castle was built to stand guard over the River Arun in 1067 by Roger de Montgomery, a kinsman of William the Conqueror. How surprised he might have been to see that, down the centuries, his simple fortress in West Sussex evolved into a turreted, fairytale-like structure, overlooking a genteel market town, with a tea room on every corner. There are just 3,500 residents – or ‘mullets’ as the natives are known locally after fish in the Arun – in this compact town, yet it is also home to a magnificent French Gothic cathedral. IN THE ESTATE AGENT’S WINDOW There are, says Peter Robson of Pegasus Properties, ‘few chimney pots in the old town’ – industry speak for not much availability. The brick and flint houses in this quarter are very highly sought after. ‘A fourbedroom detached home could cost £750,000, though there is much fluctuation between streets,’ Peter says. The beauty of Arundel is that its architecture has been well preserved, but a consequence is no new developments since the 1980s. More affordable houses can be found beyond Maltravers Street. BUTCHERS, BAKERS & COFFEE MAKERS There’s plenty to keep the weekly shopping basket
Arundel view in autumn; charming shops encourage happy browsing
topped up at Pallant delicatessen and Arundel Butchers. But the town’s speciality is antiques, with a princely provision of collectables clustered around the High Street and Tarrant Street. Round off a day’s bargain hunting at Arundel Brewery – blueberry Berliner Weisse and apple crumble IPA give a flavour of the latest craft offerings. COUNTRY LIFE & CULTURE This historic hotspot is home to a largely older demographic – a third of the population is over 60 – and there is a rich array of arts and music to match. Of international renown, The Hanover Band gives beautiful baroque concerts. From the sublime, to the frivolous, the annual Arundel street festival and the
Pumpkin Festival in October at nearby Slindon are great fun. SCHOOLS Two primaries in Arundel proper – St Philip’s Catholic School and Arundel Church of England School, both rated ‘good’. For secondaries, Bishop Luffa (Chichester) and St Philip Howard (Barnham) are ‘outstanding’. GET AROUND London is 90 minutes’ drive away, or similar by direct train to Victoria Station. Gatwick Airport is less than an hour. Bucketloads of seaside towns are within easy reach via the A27, so too is Chichester. IN THE AREA Swanbourne Lake is an idyllic spot to idle away an hour, or follow walking trails out to the dramatic South Downs.
Dream homes in Arundel
SET IN STONE
LOOKING SHARP
GREEN AND PLEASANT
In the heart of Arundel, this beautifully presented twobed flint cottage at 41 King Street has a rear garden and balcony with views to the coast, all for £550,000.
This handsome 1880 property at 42 Maltravers Street has bags of space for £695,000, with three double bedrooms, three receptions and a garden.
High ceilings and period features abound at Flat One, Tower House on London Road, which also has parking and a garage. The price is £750,000. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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MY COUNTRY BUSINESS
❝Two pregnant alpacas
turned me into a country girl and changed my life ❞ LOU ARCHER, SMALLHOLDER AND FERTILISER PRODUCER
W
hen Lou Archer moved to Shropshire with her family 10 years ago, she was not a country girl. Lou and her husband Paul were keen to be closer to his business and give their children Antonia and Warwick a rural lifestyle. Some 14 miles from the market town of Ludlow, high on the Shropshire Hills, they found The Larches, a Victorian house with a slight nod to the Gothic. ‘The property was engulfed in foliage, but as we are The Archers and the property is called The Larches, it seemed to be fate,’ says Lou. ‘Relocating from a small, modern Oxfordshire cottage, to a lofty, 1000ft above sea level, rural 15-acre smallholding, was definitely life changing. Our friends all thought we’d gone potty.’ With Paul at work, Lou and the children started learning about country life. Their fields were overgrown and the hedges out of control. One day, returning from school drop-off, overdressed in heels and a jacket – pretty much all her wardrobe comprised at that time – Lou spotted a farmer on her lane, cutting hedges. ‘I hobbled down the bumpy lane, waving my arms, keen to ask him to cut our hedges, too. I must have 66
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looked like such a townie,’ she says. But this chance meeting was a turning point. The farmer suggested Lou borrow some cows to graze the land and set about introducing her to other locals. ‘The day the herd of cows stampeded onto the land was pretty terrifying, but they soon got the fields under control,’ she says. Once the paddocks were manageable, the hedges under control and the fences mended, Lou began to learn more and, over time, welcomed rescue cats, rare breed chickens and sheep to the growing smallholding. All was good – and then her husband did something unexpected. ‘One Sunday, Paul arrived at The Larches with a trailer containing two pregnant alpacas. A gift for the family, he said! He then immediately left to work in Italy for a period. Other than some guidance from the previous owners, I had no clue how to look after them. I wasn’t amused,’ says Lou. ‘After the initial shock, I signed up for a British Alpaca Society Husbandry course. The more I learnt, the more I adored them (and him). The children and I used to sit in the paddock, reading our books, leaning against their backs as they cushed (sat). We got to know them really >
Lou spends hours talking to her herd and getting to know their personalities
What I love most...
ALPACA SOCKS AND INSOLES ARE A MUST FOR ❝ COUNTRY FOLK AS THEY KEEP YOUR FEET WARM IN WINTER AND COOL IN SUMMER, THANKS TO THE UNIQUE PROPERTY OF THE FLEECE
❞
well and they got to know us, too.’ Lou soon discovered what her alpacas needed: careful feeding, checking several times a day, their paddocks maintained and, according to her vet, the fields needed to be poo picked every day, to keep the alpacas healthy and free of worms. As a keen gardener, Lou discovered that this cold manure would not scorch plants, so she used it to nourish the garden soil. The results were amazing, and friends and family began asking for bags of the magical alpaca poo. The idea of selling Lou’s Poo, Dried Alpaca Fertiliser was born, and Lou set
As well as the alpacas, Lou has free-range hens
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about investigating the logistics of setting up her new business venture. Over time, having landed prestigious wholesale clients, Lou felt sufficiently buoyed to launch her product at Glee, an international horticultural trade show, held in Birmingham, where retail buyers amass to source gardening stock and discover new brands. It was a brave move for a fledgling business. Fortunately, Lou’s Poo caught the attention of several buyers and she also met Mark Macdonald of Todd’s Botanics Nursery in Essex. Mark saw potential in this dried, unscented, slow-release feed and, after successfully trialling it at his nursery, invited Lou to bring the product to the Great Pavilion at Chelsea Flower Show in 2016. It is thanks to Mark that Lou has been introduced to many other specialist growers and attended most of the RHS shows since then. However, the story doesn’t end there. Alpacas are a domesticated animal, bred for their exquisite fleece, which must be sheared once a year for welfare, to keep them cool. Using this fleece, Lou works with other ethical British businesses to make and sell other alpaca products. Most notable are her luxurious, organic duvets, pillows and mattress toppers. Alpaca fibre is also used to make throws, scarves, socks and gorgeous alpaca-felted fleece insoles, a great foil for sweaty feet. ‘Alpaca socks keep your feet warm in winter and cool in summer,’ says Lou. Since those first two pregnant alpacas arrived on her doorstep, Lou has bred a herd of almost 30 registered animals and is affectionately known in the horticulture world as ‘Mrs Poo’. Her heels are all long gone, replaced now by sturdy wellingtons and you’d struggle to find more of a country girl than Lou. She has successfully turned an unexpected – and originally, unwanted – gift, into a flourishing rural business. To find our more, go to thearchersatthelarches.com
MY COUNTRY BUSINESS
The young ones are particularly curious
Lou insists that doing your own accounts and marketing helps bring success
A ride-on mower is essential as grass needs to be kept short for alpacas
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ON OUR DOORSTEP… Visit… ’Catherton Common Nature Reserve (shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk), which is close to my home and a great way to enjoy wild and wonderful Shropshire.’ Shop at… ‘The Plant Centre (ludlowplantcentre.co.uk) just outside Ludlow has an exciting selection of tempting gardening goodies.’ Go for a meal at…
The garden at The Larches is wild and romantic in style
‘Ludlow Farmshop (ludlowfarmshop.co.uk) stocks a wide range of local produce. I love nothing more than a picnic in a field with a hamper of local meats and treats. Alternatively, I often enjoy lunch or afternoon tea in the Ludlow Kitchen Café, which is just adjacent to the Farmshop.
MY COUNTRY BUSINESS
HOW TO START AN ALPACA FARM BECOME AN EXPERT IN YOUR FIELD TO ENSURE SUCCESS
FEATURE TAMSIN WESTHORPE PHOTOGRAPHS MANOS CHATZIKONSTANTIS
Lou Archer started her alpaca farm after unexpectedly receiving the gift of two pregnant alpacas from her husband. She now sells alpaca products and more from an online store and via wholesale. Creating an online business so intrinsically linked to her home has allowed her to work and yet still be there for her family. ‘Keeping livestock is full on and means that you can’t just go away for the weekend on a whim. This is more than just a new career – it’s a complete change of lifestyle,’ warns Lou. ‘You need adequate land – enough to rotate animals and give the paddocks a rest and you’ll need to maintain that land.’ Lou shares her advice... DO YOUR RESEARCH Make sure you get advice from those who are credible and experienced in this area. Join the British Alpaca Society (bas-uk.com) – they promote and ensure the wellbeing of these amazing animals. The welfare of your animals must be a priority. With animals of any kind come unexpected vets’ bills and you’ll
need to pay experienced shearers. If you plan on breeding alpacas, being confident in birthing is essential. You can’t always expect a vet to be on hand, so you need to be the farmer. It’s essential that you go on a husbandry course and, if possible, spend some time helping on an alpaca farm to gain hands-on experience. DO IT YOURSELF The only way that a business such as this can work, is if you are hands-on. Don’t be tempted to outsource jobs until you have learned how to do them yourself first. Learn to put up your own fences, maintain your land, perform medical procedures on your animals, do your own accounts and find out how to update your own website. Being able to make quick changes to your website, without calling in a designer, is very rewarding and could save you money. TELL EVERYONE WHAT YOU ARE DOING Being a smallholder can be a lonely lifestyle, but you have to be prepared to communicate. If your
business is remote or predominantly online, then social media, attending events, networking and being able to sell yourself and your product is essential. Marketing a rural business is difficult as you have no passing traffic. Enlist all the influencers you can. If you are silent, you won’t have a chance. LOOK AFTER YOUR CASH Lack of funds is debilitating for a little business. For this reason, I think that, as a start-up business, tackling all the tasks yourself is essential. Don’t pay someone to do a job you could reasonably do yourself. Grow your business slowly and keep a very close eye on the cash flow. Growing too quickly is a huge risk. BE A FOUNTAIN OF KNOWLEDGE When specialising in rearing one animal, such as an alpaca, you need to be able to answer all your customers’ questions. Research the history of alpacas, their breeding, medical conditions and learn to understand their temperament. Know your animals and people will trust your products.
The one lesson I have learnt... TO BE PATIENT AND TAKE THE LONG VIEW... ❝ NOTHING SUSTAINABLE IS ACHIEVED OVERNIGHT, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE BREEDING LIVESTOCK ❞ COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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❝Enjoy fascinating stories
from inspiring country people, plus new decorating and interiors ideas and delightful real homes with this affordable treat, for you or another country-lover
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MAKE A HOUSE A HOME
Create picture-perfect
WINDOW DRESSINGS Add layers of interest or frame a pretty view with these inspirational ideas Woodland Snow II window film, from ÂŁ90 for 0.5sq m, Nic Miller Collection Surface View
FINISHING TOUCHES Curtain trimmings are
TAKE A FROSTY VIEW With its decorative patterns and frosted effect, window film is a great way to create the impression of etched glass at a fraction of the cost, with the added benefit of providing privacy while letting in natural light. Surface View offers designs in bespoke sizes, with either a clear background (which maintains the clarity of the glass) or frosted. This subtle woodland design creates a country feel, whatever the view outside your window. 74
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
an easy way to refresh existing curtains or to create a bespoke look. The simple addition of a contrasting trim makes fabrics appear even more luxurious. It’s especially effective on plains; have a bit of fun with on-trend pom-poms in contrasting shades or opt for tasselled edges or an embroidered border for a classic feel.
DOUBLE DUTY Dressing a window with a curtain and blind is practical as well as decorative. It stops windows from looking bare when the curtains are open as well as providing control over how much light comes in. Curtains in an elegant heritage print will suit a period home; if it’s a busy pattern like this archive William Morris print, choose plain blinds, then add a colour-coordinating pom-pom trim at the bottom.
William Morris Compton Blue made-to-measure curtains, from ÂŁ44.50, Blinds 2Go
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OUR EXPERT SAYS…
MAKE SMALL ❝ WINDOWS LOOK BIGGER BY EXTENDING A CURTAIN POLE FURTHER OUT THAN THE USUAL 10CM
❞
TARA KING, STYLE CONTENT EDITOR
T HI NK P R ACTI CAL LY Bypassing bulky curtains in favour of a space-saving window treatment is particularly effective in rooms where you’d like to keep areas clear. The clean lines of a classic roller blind are ideal above sinks. As well as being a perennial country favourite, vertical stripes elongate, making them a great pattern choice for smaller windows.
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Blind fabric, Scandi Stripe, £60m, Vanessa Arbuthnott
MAKE A HOUSE A HOME
DRESS FOR THE SEASONS
Paris Rose ready-made curtains, £115, Cabbages & Roses
For a window treatment that fits the bill all year round, consider lining a bold floral with a classic check, plaid or stripe. Opt for a simple heading that can be threaded onto a pole; this will ensure the curtain is easily reversible, allowing you to change the look with the seasons. CURTAIN CALL How you hang your curtains can make as big an impact as the dressing itself. Do you want the effect to be formal or relaxed? It’s all in the heading…
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1. Cartridge curtain 2. Goblet curtain 3. Pencil pleats 4. Tab top 5. Eyelet 6. Triple pencil pleats
From left to right, Kishi curtain in Lagoon V3409/02, £45m; Ara curtain in Nordic V3415/01, £64m; Meris curtain in Lagoon V3411/02, £40m, all Villa Nova
SH EE R MAGI C From lightweight voiles to loose-weave linens, light, airy fabrics are ideal for creating a relaxed vibe. Consider a two or three track glider system to enable you to hang different colours, patterns and textures for a stunning effect. You can rearrange layers to maximise light during the day and obscure it at night. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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MAKE A HOUSE A HOME
GO FOR SHUTTER CHIC A modern alternative to the traditional net curtain is a smart set of shutters, which allows you to control light and privacy while giving a streamlined feel. They also don’t harbour as much dust as fabric, which is something to think about if you’re an allergy sufferer. Tier-on-tier designs feature top and bottom panels that can be used separately, making them a great solution for overlooked rooms.
Gunrid curtains, £25 for a pair, Ikea
PURE AN D S I MPLE Made from 100% recycled polyester and treated with a special coating that breaks down common indoor air pollutants (think chemicals from cleaning products and pet odours), these genius curtains from Ikea stealthily purify the air of the room in which they’re hung. They’re activated by both outdoor and indoor light, meaning you’ll be breathing cleaner air all year round. They’re self-cleaning, too – bonus!
Shutters from £168sq m, California Shutters
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1. Croft rope tieback, £20, John Lewis & Partners 2. Queen bee tieback, £32, Anthropologie 3. Brick double tassel tieback, £88.95, VV Rouleaux
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FEATURE TARA KING PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
3 O F TH E BE ST C U RTAIN H O LDB ACKS
Emma linen fabric in Sage ÂŁ58m, Neptune
HAV E A BRI GHT O UT LO O K If you want to maximise the light in darker rooms, tailored fabric blinds are the way to go as curtains can make a space feel darker, even when drawn back. Blackout linings are a good idea as this ensures the fabric doesn’t look overly yellow when the light shines through. If the window frames a countryside view, complement it with a pretty foliage or leafy print.
Top drawer. Shop our full range of over 1,000 designs online at swooneditions.com
Halle chest of drawers ÂŁ699 Edition limited to 12
Furniture for the home obsessed swooneditions.com 020 3319 6332
SEASONAL DECOR
NATURE’S
palette
Take inspiration from nature’s paint card – the ultimate range of colour-matched hues and chromatic counterpoints – to put together the perfect country décor scheme COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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A BLAZE OF FOLIAGE & FLOWERS Virginia creeper and dahlias put on a show. For a similar folding garden chair, try Lovingly Made. Enamel teapot, £15, Newbury Vintage Fair. Pink and Green plaid blanket, Frome Sunday Antiques Market
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SEASONAL DECOR
RECREATE AUTUMN’S FIERY GLOW Deep, rich reds and the berry tones of autumn sit beautifully with warm florals and pretty pastels.
Love this look? Then try... Rhodera active emulsion, £47 for 2.5ltr, Sanderson
Theatre Red intelligent matt emulsion, £51.50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene
Apricot Froth V700 premium walls & ceilings, £29 for 2.5ltr, Valspar
Dance Fever matt emulsion, £29 for 2.5ltr, Crown
Spruce Things Up supreme matt emulsion, £49.99 for 2.5ltr, Dowsing and Reynolds
Floral fabric from Mabel’s Five & Dime
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SEASONAL DECOR
PUMPKIN BRIGHTS & DARK NIGHTS A newer palette of neutrals emerge with warm terracotta and shades of dark brown that sit with cool greys.
Love this look? Then try... Chocolate Colour intelligent matt emulsion, £51.50, Little Greene
Damson Dusk matt emulsion, £18 for 2.5ltr, Dulux
Owl’s Lick active emulsion, £47 for 2.5ltr, Sanderson
English Yellow wall paint, £41.95 for 2.5ltr, Annie Sloan
Shepherd’s Delight pure matt, £47 for 2.5ltr, Fenwick & Tilbrook
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A SEAT AT THE HARVEST TABLE Dark chocolate walls are spiced up with bold yellow table linen. Make a dried flower bouquet or garland to decorate a chair with helichrysum bracteatum ‘Salmon Rose’, £1.95 for 250 seeds, Sarah Raven
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GET SET FOR THE SEASON Turn your hall into a staging post for autumn foraging and hearty hikes. Flower print bag, from a selection at The Linen Garden. Jumper, ÂŁ25, M&S. Pink and Green plaid blanket, Frome Sunday Antiques Market
SEASONAL DECOR
HAZY DAWNS & GOLDEN SUNSETS Muted ochre and pops of bold orange elevate a neutral scheme, adding a layer of warmth.
Love this look? Then try... Tilton Yellow chalk paint, £21.95 for 1ltr, Annie Sloan
Nigerian Sands matt emulsion, £18 for 2.5ltr, Dulux
Chocolate Brown V700 premium walls & ceilings, £29 for 2.5ltr, Valspar
Kissing Gate clay paint, £45 for 2.5ltr, Earthborn
FEATURE & STYLING JO RIGG PHOTOGRAPHS SUSSIE BELL
Heat intelligent matt emulsion, £51.50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene
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CH&I loves... KILIM PATTERNS Geometric designs inspired by ancient Persian motifs bring depth and dynamism to a neutral backdrop
Opulent full-length drapes fuse ikat motifs with vivacious brights. Curtains in Niyali, £59m; sofa in Baroda, £59m; cushions in Meru, £49m; Niyali, £59m; Siam Diamond, £59m; Kelim, £89m, all from the Caspian collection, Sanderson at Style Library
SHOPPING TREND
MAKE IT COUNTRYÉ
Place this woven textile seat in the hall, beneath a window or at the foot-end of a bed to add instant look-and-touch appeal. Wooden long bench with iron legs in Cream, £340, Ian Snow
Tapestry-inspired geometrics have an organic, textural simplicity that suits a country home. Now the designs have travelled beyond rugs to upholstery, tableware and more. For a twist on the traditional earthy palette of rich reds and spicy turmeric, statement diamonds and octagonal shapes have been reworked in pretty pastels and modern monochromes.
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1 FAN Hang on a wall for 3D effect. Izmir bolga fan, £28, Lola & Mawu
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2 MU GS Choose chunky, grounded ceramics. Etched patterned mugs, £12.50 each, A New Tribe
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3 CU S HIO N Hard-wearing but soft bohemian accent. Jovita geo handloom kilim cushion, £42, Good Weave at Shopkeeper 4 A RMC HA IR Sustainable, artisan-crafted Aztec design. Odum armchair in Blue and Natural, £995, Nkuku 5 THR OW Embroidered with fine arabesques. Dafi throw in Neige Charcoal, £255, Caravane
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SHOPPING TREND
OUR EXPERT SAYSÉ
TAKE A LESS-IS-MORE, ❝ SCANDI APPROACH AND
START WITH AN UNCLUTTERED FOUNDATION TO LET THE COLOURFUL, GEO DESIGNS REALLY POP
❞
HOLLY PHILLIPS, STYLE CONTENT EDITOR
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Display as wall art or dress bare floors with a vibrant accent piece. Neptune chenille rug, £125; medium poppy field rug in Mint, £125, both French Connection Home
6 WA L L H A N G I N G Introduce natural materials to walls. Kilbo hemp wall hanging in Triangle Print, £120, Rose & Grey 7 CLUTC H B AG Handcrafted using recycled Berber textiles. Vintage textile clutch bag in Lavender, £60, Larusi 8 LA MP S H A D E Make a cosy corner glow. Mazia embellished lampshade, from £78, Anthropologie 9 PL ACE M ATS Make your salad blush. Kaya woven bamboo place mats in Crimson, £36 for four, Kalinko
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FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS
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Create an inviting look in the boudoir with an oversized feature headboard, upholstered in a tactile fabric. Prescott headboard in Indus Cloud, £59sq m; Berber Desert wallpaper, £70 a roll, both Andrew Martin
The Woodland Double sided stove
Mendip Stoves Ltd
01934 750 500
www.mendipstoves.co.uk
& INTERIORS
CHRISTMAS SHOW 2020 26-29 NOVEMBER 2020 Stonor Park, near Henley-on-Thames BUY TICKETS TODAY AND SAVE £2*
PLUS Take a tour of the house for £5
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT TIMED TICKETS: SHOP FROM 10AM–1PM OR 1PM–4PM* DO ALL YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING – MORE THAN 100 STANDS ■ Gifts & accessories ■ Fashion & beauty ■ Home decor ■ Kids’ toys ■ Men’s gifts & more
VISIT ICHFEVENTS.CO.UK/COUNTRYHOMESCHRISTMAS OR CALL 01425 277988 AND USE CODE EV286 AT CHECKOUT TERMS & CONDITIONS Discounted ticket prices valid until Monday 23 November 2020. Offer is a saving of £2 on the on the door price, you pay £10 instead of £12 when using code EV286 at checkout. *Timed tickets will be sold online for either 10am–1pm or 1pm–4pm.
LOCAL HERO
The phone box opening day; Marion and Alison; The stained glass exhibition
❝We turned our
local phone box into a gallery
❝
FEATURE SOPHIE GALE. PHOTOGRAPHS GALLERY ON THE GREEN
Marion Armstrong and her neighbour transformed a redundant BT kiosk into a thriving art space in their village It’s amazing how much interest the slim red phone box on our green in Upper Settle has sparked. We are on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, yet our visitor book has comments from travellers from as far afield as Sweden and New Zealand, enthusing about the delight of this unusual find. Curiosity is piqued, and when they open the door they find themselves inside probably the smallest art gallery in the world! My good friend Alison Marshall and I set up the gallery in 2009. We have lived opposite one another on the green for some years. As town councillors (alongside our jobs – Alison as a business development manager at Leeds University, and me as a semi-retired general manager at the Settle to Carlisle Railway Company), we learnt BT was selling the decommissioned box for just £1 under its ‘Adopt a Kiosk’ scheme. When Alison suggested turning it into an art gallery, colleagues on the council rubbished the idea. But local people made their feelings clear that the iconic structure must be saved.
Quite a bit of elbow grease was required, with a new lick of paint using the original red, and window panes scrubbed. It rather showed up the pillar box next to it, so that got a fresh coat too! We decided to create a mosaic on the floor, which I worked on with my late mother. Lots of locals came to the opening and we asked them to do ‘works of art’ on postcards. Word got out and we were interviewed on BBC Breakfast, helping us attract artists. One volunteer is a retired curator from the media museum in Bradford and he facilitated an exhibition by Brian May, featuring a set of very early 3D photographs on the theme of a ‘Lost Village’. It stirred great excitement, especially for Queen fans! Many successes stand out since. Photographic artist Fleur Olby staged a beautiful selection of flower images, replacing the mosaic floor with artificial grass and white hyacinths. The scent filled the box and hit as soon as you opened the door. An amazing Canadian photographer, Jim des Rivieres, created a display
called The Magnificent Moths. And every winter we have a Twelve Days of Christmas-inspired piece from Settle flagmakers with wall panels that give a stained-glass effect. A lot of head scratching goes into helping artists create their desired backdrops – nails and screws are not an option, so often magnets are involved. Problem-solving is part of the fun. We receive a few hundred pounds in council funding and won £1,000 in a BT competition for most innovative use of a phone box. But with around 10 volunteers as well as donations we’re fairly self-sufficient. We are now slowly handing over to a new generation of curators, and I can’t wait to see the results. Four more phone boxes have been rescued in the village, for use as a listening gallery and for a defibrillator among other things. I think we can say that keeping the box turned out to be a good call. Go to galleryonthegreen.org.uk. To adopt a kiosk, go to business. bt.com/campaigns/communities/ adopt-a-kiosk COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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Carnival wallpaper, £95m, Christopher Farr Cloth. Albertine Egyptian cotton bed linen, £120 for a double duvet cover; Arthur footstool, from £450, both Neptune. A similar master bedroom by Sims Hilditch starts from £34,000
Wake up to
WONDERFUL GIVE YOUR BIGGEST BEDROOM THE FEELGOOD FACTOR WITH SUMPTUOUS BED LINEN, GORGEOUS WALLPAPERS AND THE ULTIMATE IN STYLISH STORAGE
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MASTER BEDROOM IDEAS
A NEW FLAME A bedroom is a place of sanctuary, a restful space in which to unwind and escape the daily grind. ‘A master bedroom should embody all these qualities, but it should also be clearly recognisable as the “master” suite through its elegant and sophisticated design features,’ says Emma SimsHilditch, founder and creative director of Sims Hilditch. ‘Installing a fireplace is a lovely way to do this and creates a warm and inviting aesthetic.’
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BOLD BOUDOIR When it comes to decorating, it’s worth remembering you only have yourself (and your partner) to please. It’s the perfect opportunity to go to town on more daring schemes than you might consider downstairs. Rebecca Craig, head of design at Sanderson, recommends mixing colours and cultural styles to achieve a playful yet opulent bedroom that’s unique to you. ‘From chinoiseries to Uzbek and from Indian to English country house, be brave and combine exotic influences with a fluid versatility,’ she says.
Curtains in Indra Flower, £59m; wallpaper in Cantaloupe, £79 a roll; headboard in Meru, £49m; bed valance in Parity, £29m; cushions in Omega, £29m; and Indra Flower, £59m, all Sanderson at Style Library
MASTER BEDROOM IDEAS
Vivianna bath, £1,480, Indigenous. Robertson desk lamp, £577, Arteriors. CH24 Wishbone chair, £874, Olson & Baker. Design services start at around £8,000, Champalimaud Design
BATHE IN BEAUTY Adding an en suite to your master bedroom can boost the value of your property by at least 5%, according to a survey by Direct Line. While you can steal space from the bedroom to create a small shower room, knocking through to an unused guest room will provide the generous footprint required for a luxurious en suite. ‘Install double doors to really maximise the feeling of spaciousness inside your bathroom,’ says Anna Beeber, partner at Champalimaud Design. ‘Left swung open, they can make the bedroom feel bigger.’
SWEET DREAMS It’s worth investing in the best bed you can afford for a good night’s sleep. Go for the biggest that will comfortably fit into the space and top with a decent mattress. ‘Our sleeping patterns are entirely unique, and different firmness ratings suit different types of sleepers. Side sleepers usually prefer a medium/soft rating, while a back sleeper would opt for a firmer rating,’ explains Angela Moran, product strategy director at Silentnight. ‘Look for brands that offer a comfort guarantee – at least 60 nights – so you can find the right mattress for you.’
Eco Comfort Breathe Pocket 200 mattress, from £599 for a double, Silentnight
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MASTER BEDROOM IDEAS
Bedspreads in Ditto Clay, and Lazza Cameo, both £22m; cushions (from front to back) in Ditto Slate, Lazza Cameo, Amala Cameo, and Ditto Slate, all £22m, all Levande collection at ILIV
PATTERN PERFECTION Nothing says sumptuous like a generous bed piled high with cushions and throws, and they are easy to change with the seasons. ‘Start with three fabrics – the key is to vary the pattern scale. Pick a large-scale pattern as your main one; the second should be half its scale, like a large floral paired with a plaid or geometric,’ says Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV. ‘The third can be similar to either of the first two but using matching colours. When mixing two or three patterns, consider breaking them up with plains.’
CHARACTER QUIRKS
Portafino made-tomeasure bedroom furniture in Dusk Grey, from £3,250, My Fitted Bedroom
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Original, quirky features are a huge part of what makes country homes so special. ‘Master bedrooms are often blessed with a central chimney breast. Such features add character but can present a challenge when it comes to freestanding furniture,’ says Megan Baker, head of design at My Fitted Bedroom. ‘Fitted furniture makes the most of the available storage space and can also deal with any uneven flooring or wall issues. We recommend doors that reach the full height of the room for a neat and uniform look.’
GRAND DESIGNS For a master bedroom with all the ceremony and grandeur of a boutique hotel, you’ll need a bed with impact. ‘I’ve always loved adding a bit of drama to bedrooms and that is exactly what a four-poster bed can do,’ says Sue Jones, co-founder and creative director of Oka. ‘Whether you are creating a modern scheme or something more classic, a four-poster will work its magic.’ Four-posters go best with high ceilings, and are a great way to achieve a cosier atmosphere in double-height rooms.
Zamindar four-poster king-size bed with mattress, £4,750; Flavian oak and stone side table, £1,195; Durbar chest of drawers, £1,895, all Oka
SIDE PIECE If you have the space, think beyond the conventional narrow bedside cabinet. ‘The perfect design will provide plenty of storage so you can keep the surface uncluttered but also have everything at your fingertips,’ says Henry Tovey, furniture designer at Neptune. ‘A bedside light will provide soft illumination for reading but also work as a focal point and add height to your scheme.’ If space is tight, a bedside table on legs or a wall-mounted design will leave more floor visible, creating the illusion of extra space.
Chawton six-drawer cabinet in Ink, £1,497; Brompton brass lamp, £140; Tussock sheepskin rug, £125, all Neptune
MASTER BEDROOM IDEAS
Traditional oak fitted bedroom furniture, from £3,600, Neville Johnson
FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHS (BATHE IN BEAUTY) EMILY ANDREWS, (SIDE PIECE) BENJAMIN EDWARDS, (BOLD BOUDOIR) ANDY GORE
THE PERFECT FIT There’s no such thing as too much wardrobe space but furniture-heavy bedrooms can quickly feel oppressive. ‘Consider including glazed units in bespoke fitted furniture to add another layer of interest to the design,’ says Simon Tcherniak, senior furniture designer at Neville Johnson. ‘Glazed doors allow wardrobes to appear more balanced and less of an expansive mass within a room. The glass-fronted furniture will maximise the flow of light while offering an eye-catching feature that is unique to your home.’
BREATH OF FRESH AIR Bring nature into your bedroom with a balcony. ‘An oak framed balcony can be entirely self-supporting and fits well in rural settings,’ says Ed Brechtmann, project development manager at Border Oak. ‘Depending on your budget, they can be built with enough space for sun loungers and planters. We’ve even installed a bath on a balcony! However, a more modest Juliette balcony, which has no outside space, can still have a huge impact – making the most of a view and bringing light into the room, for minimal disruption and cost.’
Self-supporting green oak balconies including oak mullions and handrails start from £6,000, as part of a new-build oak framed house by Border Oak
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CONTEMPORARY CLASSIC
Choose the best…
Crafted with solid oak arms that cradle its sumptuous upholstery, this elegant design exudes charm and simplicity, making it the perfect accent. Choose between light and dark frame finishes and a selection of striking velvets and textured plains. Marlia chair in N312 fabric and clear matt finish, from £795, Ercol
ARMCHAIR TO RELAX IN
SINK INTO THE WELCOMING ARMS AND SQUISHY SOFTNESS OF A SHAPELY SEAT. FROM SWEEPING CURVES TO POISED HIGH-BACKS, THERE’S A SIT-BACK-AND-RELAX PARTNER FOR ALL
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FURNITURE BUYER’S GUIDE
ECLECTIC FLAIR
Bursting at the seams with distinctive style, yet in a mono colour palette, this deconstructed chair makes a subtle but mighty statement. Louis deconstructed chair in Bogolanfini linen, £1,520, Mind The Gap
LIBRARY CHIC
With its softly scrolled arms, elegant turned solid wood legs and neat proportions, this deep-buttoned piece captures timeless Chesterfield grace. A supportive fixed seat provides the optimum perch for an afternoon’s reading. Sylvan chair in House Velvet Paprika, from £467, Sofa Workshop
CONTRAST EXISTING ❝ FURNITURE WITH A DESIGN FULL OF PERSONALITY IN A BOLD COBALT BLUE, SPICED ORANGE OR FOREST GREEN SHADE
❞
RETRO RELAX
Inspired by 1960s New York, but made on British soil, this relaxed champ brings old-school corduroy up to date by introducing the cosiness of beautifully soft velvet. Diggidy armchair in Indian Blue clever cord, £1,095, Loaf
DECO DESIRE
Handmade in Britain by craftsmen using innovative comfort technology, this shapely icon is inspired by the Art Deco period, with a modern twist. Enjoy its fine detailing for a super-smart look that doesn’t compromise on wind-down luxury. Hoxton armchair in Bexley Seaspray, £1,038, Parker Knoll
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FURNITURE BUYER’S GUIDE
LUXURIOUS TOUCH
Embrace rich colour and opulent texture with this swish looker. With its subtle mid-century modern undertones, it brings enduring style to any scheme. Canterbury armchair, from £1,310, Sweetpea & Willow
SCROLLED REVIVER
After a tiring day, you can’t beat sinking into the reassuring embrace of a familiar favourite. This traditional lovely is ready and waiting with its high back and studded details. Haslemere armchair in Turmeric textured velvet, £1,568, Sofas & Stuff
MODERN MUSE
Melt into the deep seat of this ultra-comfortable, fully supportive, laid-back piece. With a retro nod, its tactile finish and earthy tones are the stuff of slow-living, afternoon daydreams… Aldona leather armchair in Caramel, £725, Perch & Parrow
INVEST IN PERFORMANCE FABRICS FOR ❝ A LUXURIOUS AESTHETIC THAT’S FULLY FUNCTIONAL AND HARD-WEARING, TOO❞ BESPOKE OPTION
Complement your existing furniture with a versatile, contemporary design that can be tailored to taste. This sumptuous character is available in a variety of colour and leg options. Egerton armchair in Dirty Orange velvet, £2,400, Tailored by Oka
Channel an air of country house grandeur with this luscious little lady. Choose plush fabric all over or mix it up with a pattern around the sides. Ursula accent chair in Honeycreeper/Print Gigo mix, £699, Sofology
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FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS
FEMME LUXURY
COMPETITION
Win a Contura wood-burning stove
WORTH £2,525!
EUROPE’S LEADING WOOD-BURNING STOVE MANUFACTURER, CONTURA, IS OFFERING TWO LUCKY READERS THE CHANCE TO WIN A STOVE
D
esigned and assembled in Markaryd, Sweden, Contura wood-burning stoves are known for their timeless design, efficiency and high quality. The Contura 310G has a bold white finish with a cast-aluminium top and works equally well in traditional, rustic properties, and modern and contemporary homes. This stove can be installed into an existing fireplace or used as a standalone feature. The generous glass front offers an optimum view of the flames, perfect for meditative evenings spent in front of the fire. Plus, measuring H85xW75xD37.5cm
and with a heat output of 7kW, it can heat large rooms with ease. The lucky winners will also receive a lower storage drawer, tall log storage compartment and an outside air supply kit. The outdoor inlet kit can be connected to the outdoor air, ensuring that the firebox receives cool, oxygen-rich fresh air for a more efficient burn and better combustion. Crucially, the 310G is DEFRA Clean Air Act Exempt, meaning that it is approved for installation in Smoke Controlled Areas. It is also certified Ecodesign-Ready, and scores A within the Energy Class
category. A wood burner reduces particulate emissions by up to 90% compared to a traditional open fireplace. Not only that, but the superior design of the Contura 310G heat chamber means greater efficiency – two logs will burn for up to an hour in the stove, compared to only 15 minutes on an open fire, and while 80% of the heat generated by an open fire escapes up the chimney, 80% of the heat generated by a wood-burning stove is radiated into the room. ■ Enter today for your chance to win at comps.idealhome.co.uk
TERMS & CONDITIONS Prize excludes installation/labour costs, delivery costs, logs, cost of flue/chimney and any additional features. Contura will deliver the stove to kerbside, driveway or garage on a flat, sound surface. Contura will not deliver (or carry) stove into resident’s property. The winner is responsible for installation of stove. No refunds, exchanges or returns unless product is damaged. Closing date for entry is 31 October. The winner will be drawn at random by Country Homes & Interiors. The winner will be informed by via email/phone within 7 days of competition closing. The winner agrees to the use of his/her name in any publicity material. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. If the winner does not accept the prize within 14 days of being notified of winning, the winner’s prize will be forfeited, and Country Homes & Interiors shall be entitled to select another winner. No cash alternative to the prize will be offered. The prize is not transferable. The prize is subject to availability and Contura reserves the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice. Full terms and conditions are available online at comps.idealhome.co.uk
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Fabulous FIREPLACES WHETHER RESTORING AN ORIGINAL OR MAKING SOMETHING NEW, CREATE WARM APPEAL WITH A FIERY FOCAL POINT – WE’RE BURNING UP OVER THESE CHARACTERFUL DESIGNS… Cuban Black block tile, £49.99sq m, CTD Tiles
OLD AND NEW Give a period fireplace a contemporary makeover by painting the surround in the same shade as the walls and skirting and introducing bold pattern. ‘Here, an oversized geometric hearth brings a traditional fireplace into the 21st century without sacrificing its vintage charm,’ says Amanda Telford, marketing manager at CTD Tiles. ‘Be sure to choose heat resistant tiles durable enough to protect your floor from any damage – porcelain or glazed ceramic are good examples.’ 106
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ROOM ELEMENTS
RESTORATION PROJECT If you’re lucky enough to have an original fireplace, consider restoring rather than replacing. ‘If it’s covered, pull away plasterboard to see what you’re working with – we’ve come across rare Minton tiles and exquisite marble before now,’ says Owen Pacey, restoration specialist and founder of Renaissance London. ‘If you decide to replace, it’s worth contacting an antique fireplace specialist; many offer a part-exchange on the fireplace you’re removing if it’s in good condition.’
Polished cast iron Belgrave surround with Royal insert and granite hearth, £1,350, Carron
MAKE HISTORY Cast iron fireplaces have spanned centuries, but choose one in keeping with your home for an authentic look. Ornate florals were common in Victorian homes, while Edwardians preferred straight, slim lines. Designs tend to be largest for the ground floor of the house, where entertaining would happen, and smallest at the top where servants’ quarters would have been.
Jefferson fireplace surround, £425, Next Home
FOR SAFETY, IT’S BEST TO ❝ HAVE YOUR CHIMNEY SWEPT
AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR. FIND A SWEEP AT HETAS.CO.UK TARA KING, STYLE CONTENT EDITOR
❞
DOWN TO THE WOODS From polished mahogany to rustic oak beams, wooden fire surrounds are the perfect fit for modern country homes. Off-the-shelf designs are often specified for use with electric stoves or fires only, but you can still pair with a woodburning stove as long as there’s a reasonable gap – check with your manufacturer. Woodeffect tiles are a stylish alternative otherwise. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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ONE OF A KIND Marble makes for a beautiful fireplace as it’s completely natural, which means that each surround is unique. ‘It’s also extremely durable, easy to clean and carves well, so intricate bespoke patterns and edgings can be created,’ says Paul Chesney, managing director at Chesneys. It pairs beautifully with both polished and unfinished woods and stone hues, so it wouldn’t look out of place in a rustic country home. Scarpa surround in Lilac marble, from £1,434, Chesneys
3 OF T HE B E ST FIREGUARDS
FEATURE TARA KING
Combine form and function with these smart designs
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1. Flourish fireguard, £155, Oka 2. Bretforton firescreen, £50, Garden Trading 3. Thoros fireguard, £129, Made COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
ROOM ELEMENTS
Need to know...
❝
THERE IS NO WRONG PICK WHEN CHOOSING A FIRE SURROUND, OTHER THAN TO ENSURE IT IS AN ITEM OF BEAUTY THAT COMPLEMENTS A ROOM MIKE JOHNSON, ENGLISH FIREPLACES
❞
Buying fireplaces ■ A FIREPLACE IS USUALLY MADE UP of three
components: the surround, the hearth on which it sits and the insert, which is usually decorative. All-in-one designs are available or you can buy separately from a specialist to create a customised look. ■ CONSIDER MATERIALS Reproduction
surrounds come in a host of styles and can be made of marble, stone, cast iron or wood. Marble and stone are suitable for most fire types, while cast iron creates period style. ■ SIZE MATTERS Generally, fireplaces come in
1520mm and 1370mm widths, but do vary as there is no such thing as a standard size chimney breast. Choose a size that balances with the proportions of your room. ■ REFINE YOUR REQUIREMENTS Do you want
a fireplace as a decorative feature or as a real fire? If it’s the latter, choose a reputable supplier who can advise on suitability and safety. ‘Before investing, get your chimney swept and contact your local council for details on what you can and cannot burn in your area,’ says Eve Richens, sales executive, Chesneys.
Avalon 4 double sided/single depth stove, from £1,399, Hunter Stoves
BROAD APPEAL Originally used for cooking as well as heating, large open fireplaces, or inglenooks, are a mainstay of the country cottage. Designs usually feature stone or brick, often with a timber lintel and a brick hearth. Stay in keeping with tradition with a trip to local reclamation yards for materials or, for a contemporary take, contrast slate grey tiles and a sleek woodburning stove with natural wood.
TWO FACED Popular in open-plan rooms, double-sided fireplaces can be used to zone different areas without losing the sense of space or sociability. They’re usually double depth so produce enough heat to warm adjoining rooms. ‘Double-sided stoves are often controllable from one side only, so make sure the controls are in the room you’ll use the most,’ says Paul Grimes, managing director, Hunter Stoves. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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HOMESANDGARDENS.COM ■
Inspiring spaces
■
Beautif ul product
■
Fa s c i n a t i ng p e ople
K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT The curved shape of the banquette and dining table is echoed in the design of the rounded cabinetry corners
PROJECT PROFILE Owners Helen and Nathan
Curve APPEAL
A STATEMENT DINING ISLAND AND FRESH APPROACH TO COLOUR BRING CHARACTER AND WARMTH TO THIS ENLARGED FARMHOUSE KITCHEN
Clarke live here with their two teenage daughters and French bulldog, Hunter.
House An early Victorian five-bedroom farmhouse in Lincolnshire.
Project Enlargement of existing kitchen and a new design, plus utility-boot room. Kitchen size 6x6m Designer Maria-Elianna Constantinou, Krantz Designs.
Cabinetry Charles Yorke Edwardian bespoke kitchen by Krantz Designs in Farrow & Ball Purbeck Stone and Railings. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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A large butler sink is practical for a household in the country for washing homegrown vegetables and cutting flowers
A
The room was extended to the right of the ceiling beam, creating space to accommodate the new island
fter a farm sale, Helen and Nathan Clarke found themselves with a little time on their hands. Time enough, they felt, to tackle the renovation of the Lincolnshire farmhouse they had inherited from Helen’s grandparents and lived in since they were first married in 2002. ‘The kitchen was stained from a water leak and the cabinets were starting to look very tired,’ says Helen. ‘I’d hankered after a traditional painted kitchen for years, because I felt it would perfectly suit the period style and countryside setting of the house, so this was my chance.’ The couple decided to widen the room by stealing some space from an under-used corridor, moving an internal wall in the process. They visited kitchen suppliers to select the new design, getting as far as placing a small early-stage deposit on cabinetry from a nationwide supplier. Then they found themselves in Lincoln and wandered into the Krantz Designs showroom. ‘The Krantz name kept coming up when we asked our friends for recommendations and as soon as 112
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we stepped over the threshold, we could see why,’ says Helen. They met designer Maria-Elianna Constantinou and quickly established a good rapport. ‘We were impressed by the bespoke nature of the kitchens and the fact that anything was possible,’ Helen adds. Rather than running furniture in a U-shape around the walls, Maria-Elianna’s design introduced a focal point island with an integrated dining table, ideal for family meals. ‘This instantly created a heart to the room,’ says Helen, who also worked with Maria-Elianna to create extra bead detail to enhance the timeless appeal of the cabinetry and to design custom storage arrangements specifically suited to the way she likes to cook. So inspired were Helen and Nathan by the success of the kitchen, they also commissioned Krantz Designs to create a new utility-boot room, then set about further renovations throughout the property. ‘For years, we had felt frustrated at being unable to fulfil the potential of the house,’ says Helen. ‘The kitchen has re-ignited our love for our home and been a hugely satisfying project.’
K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT
Spice drawers are cleverly concealed within the mantel legs
STORAGE ❝ CUSTOM WAS DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO SUIT THE WAY HELEN LIKES TO COOK ❞
DINING TABLE
ISLAND
OVEN
On one wall there was space to include a large breakfast cupboard, styled to look like a dresser
THE LAYOUT At its heart, the square kitchen has an island with sink and prep space, complete with dining area with curved banquette seating and table suited to a family of four. The Everhot cooker is framed by a faux chimney breast with bespoke mantel, flanked by storage, while a symmetrical breakfast cupboard and pantry with integrated fridge and freezer complete the design. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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A touch of contrast colour comes from the pretty fabric used for the blinds and cushions, and to cover the backs of the tub chairs
CURVE APPEAL
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CLEVER DESIGN SOLUTIONS
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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ISLAND DINING AREA
The size and square shape of the room made it tricky to include both a large island and a separate dining table with sufficient circulation space around the furniture. ‘By merging the two together, there is room for the family to eat together in comfort,’ explains Maria-Elianna. ‘Helen and Nathan wanted to avoid a long row of bar stools, so the curved banquette seating and bespoke circular dining table make a more sociable design as the family can see each other to chat.’
K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT
2
COLOUR AND FINISH
‘I wanted a contrasting colour for the island, as I was keen to avoid a sea of muted shades,’ says Helen, who chose a soft black with blue undertones to stand out against the gentle grey of the wall cabinetry. The furniture is factory spray-painted for a sleeker sheen than hand-painted, bringing the farmhouse kitchen look up to date. ‘The walnut table and chairs introduce richer tones and texture, while brass handles and taps create period character and warmth,’ says Maria-Elianna. ‘Pretty floral fabric adds a further level of harmony to the look.’
3
CHIMNEY BREAST
To introduce character to the room, it now includes a faux chimney breast, built to house the large Everhot cooker. ‘The mantel is designed as another key feature of the room, specially engraved with the name of the house as a personal touch,’ says Maria-Elianna. ‘It also serves to conceal the built-in extraction unit.’ The mantel legs include handy pull-out storage for spices, condiments and oils, while the glass splashback reflects light and enhances the spacious feel of the room. Helen chose an energy efficient Everhot range cooker, which runs off two 13amp plugs, to replace an oil-fired Aga
The deep black-blue of the island contrasts with the soft grey of the wall cabinetry and polished quartz worktops
THE DETAILS CABINETRY Charles Yorke Edwardian bespoke kitchen, from £35,000, Krantz Designs, in Purbeck Stone and Railings estate eggshell, £64 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
SURFACES Ludlow Royal Collection quartz worktops, around £5,500; glass splashback backpainted in Farrow & Ball Purbeck Stone, around £360, both Krantz Designs. North Cape Flags Sand porcelain floor tiles, 80x80cm, £89sq m, Studio Ceramics.
APPLIANCES 150i range cooker in Graphite, from £10,325, Everhot. Cache built-in extractor, 800mm, £881, Westin. K37272 iD integrated fridge, £1,599; FNS 37402i integrated freezer, £2,149; G 4263 Vi fully integrated dishwasher, £899, all Miele.
SINKS & TAPS Pro3 Classic Fusion Square all in one tap, £1,350, Quooker. Iron/Tones 6625 undermounted cast iron sink in White, £1,202, Kohler.
FEATURE AMELIA THORPE PHOTOGRAPHS PAUL CRAIG
ACCESSORIES Bespoke solid American Black Walnut dining table, £2,500, Krantz Designs. Bespoke chairs in Swaffer Whitworth 04 linen, £49m; Bespoke banquette cushion in Sunbury Design Nappa Bluefin faux leather, £27m; blinds and scatter cushions made by Crowther & Sons, supplied by Krantz Designs. Walcot glass pendant lights in antiqued brass, £163 each, Jim Lawrence.
UTILITY-BOOT ROOM CABINETRY Charles Yorke Edwardian bespoke cabinetry, from £10,000, Krantz Designs, in Toad intelligent eggshell, £66 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Butler 800 sink, £583, Shaws of Darwen.
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R E N O V AT I O N G U I D E Dense timbers such as oak and larch are a great fit for country properties
All you need to know A NEW FRONT DOOR
MAKE A GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION WITH A STYLISH AND SECURE DESIGN THAT ENHANCES THE KERB APPEAL OF YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY WHAT DO I NEED TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A NEW DOOR? The most common deciding factors are thermal efficiency and durability, but do bear in mind that style details can also have a beneficial effect on your home. If your hallway is dark, for example, it makes sense to choose a door with windowpanes that bring much-needed light into the space. Or, if you have large windows, you might want to think about a solid door for extra privacy. 116
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WHAT MATERIALS CAN I CHOOSE FROM? Timber is a great fit for country properties. Oak, iroko, larch and cedar are all popular for their dense grains but, unlike other materials, wood can be prone to warping so regular maintenance is required. In general, you can expect to pay around £250 for a veneered timber door bought off the shelf, but bespoke solid wood designs can easily exceed £2,000 depending
on the quality and specification. Composite doors made with glass reinforced plastic (GRP) come in
stylish wood-look designs – choose a solid core construction over ‘hollow’ polystyrene. While not as authentic as real timber, composite has all the benefits of modern technology, so requires less maintenance. It can be tough on the purse strings, however, due to its superior build structure, with a standard door starting from around £1,250.
Door furniture adds personality, Mortice doorknob in bronze, £252, Beardmore
Eggshell Blue suits country style. Celestial Blue exterior eggshell, £71.50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene
Freshen heavy heritage doors with a pale paint shade
Aluminium offers a stylish,
architectural look, paired with great thermal performance, strength and durability, making it a popular choice for modern country homes. ‘For one of our premium designs with a guarantee of up to 20 years, you’d expect to pay from £1,800,’ says Victoria Brocklesby, chief operations officer at Origin. UPVC is the budget-friendly choice and is available in both coloured and wood-effect finishes. Despite its thicker frame, it lacks strength when compared to other materials, which can be an issue when it comes to security. Whatever material you decide on, bear in mind any additional costs, such as door furniture (hinges, door handles) delivery, disposal of your old door and VAT. Installation of doors with side windows and panels tends to cost more, too.
WHAT ARE MY STYLE OPTIONS? Choosing a door design that’s sympathetic to your property is the best way to achieve that allimportant kerb appeal. It’s worth doing your research to achieve an authentic feel as small details can make a difference. For instance, late Georgian homes added fanlights, while those earlier in the period tended to be solid wood. ‘In some cases, mixing old and new can work well,’ says Ryan Schofield, managing director at Thames Valley Window Company. ‘An aluminium door can look incredibly eye-catching on an older property, particularly if it’s been modernised elsewhere as well. ‘However, it is important to think about re-sale value, as most people in the market for a country home will be looking for traditional features and a front door is the first thing they’ll notice.’ Don’t forget door
furniture. Beardmore and Willow & Stone are treasure troves of fancy ironmongery in various finishes. WHAT COLOURS WORK BEST WITH COUNTRY PROPERTIES? ‘Most country homes in the UK feature white and stone-based tones on their exterior,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene. ‘Warm neutrals and soft shades of blue and green are the perfect complement, although if you want your front door to stand out, darker colours provide a strong contrast. For brick houses, bold green is a great choice – it pairs really well with warm red tones.’ I WANT TO INCORPORATE GLAZING – WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW? Positioning is important. For panes at eye-level or below, frosted or > COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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R E N O V AT I O N G U I D E
CLOCKWISE, FROM LEFT Composite doors are available in stylish wood-look finishes; matching the glazing pattern in your doors and windows makes for a smart façade; Bevington style entrance door with bespoke stained glass toplight in Harewood Grey, price on request, Timber Windows
ARE THERE ANY REGULATIONS I NEED TO BE AWARE OF? In 2002, building regulations were put in place for external doors to help reduce energy consumption, so certain standards are required when it comes to thermal efficiency and security. If you’re buying new, these are likely to have already been met (ask your supplier for proof of compliance) but if you’re replacing with a second-hand door, for example, you’ll need to prove it complies with current regulations. A reputable installer will be able to provide you with a certificate or you can apply for one from your council. 118
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SHOULD I RESTORE AN ORIGINAL DOOR RATHER THAN REPLACE IT? A period property tends to lose some of its character without an authentic front door, so if you are lucky enough to have an original in good condition, do your best to preserve it. If you live in a listed building or a conservation area, restoration might be your only option – always check with your local council. Luckily, there are plenty of companies that specialise in sympathetic restoration services, from basic cleaning, painting and weather treatments to a full refurbishment. CAN I BUY OFF THE SHELF? There are options available, but it isn’t recommended, particularly for older properties. It restricts you to standard external door sizes, which can prove problematic in older country homes with charming yet
Sourcebook
complex installation requirements, such as uneven walls or unusually large doorways. A bespoke door is the more expensive option but offers the opportunity to choose the exact design and achieve the perfect fit. WHAT ABOUT SECURITY? ‘Check that the front door is equipped with a multipoint locking system, heavy-duty hinges, a high-quality cylinder and handles,’ says Victoria Brocklesby. ‘If you’re buying new, check that the door is PAS 24:2016 compliant and accredited with the police-approved Secured by Design standard for extra peace of mind.’
Our pick of front door suppliers
For a traditional timber finish Westbury Windows & Joinery 01245 326510 westburyjoinery.com n For sleek aluminium designs Origin 0808 168 5816 origin-global.com n For a range of period and modern designs Thames Valley Windows 0800 181698 tvwindows.com
FEATURE TARA KING PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
painted panels work well, allowing light in while retaining privacy. Choose toughened or laminated glass for added security. ‘I would recommend that homeowners include multiple glazed sections where possible to boost the kerb appeal of their property,’ says James Upton, managing director, Westbury Windows & Joinery. ‘Using both fanlights [a semi-circular panel installed above the door] and sidelights will create an eye-catching entrance and help to flood the space behind with natural light.’
Beautifully crafted
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The one-stop edit of the best modern style inspiration and design ideas Enhance the value and beauty of your home with natural timber windows and doors from sustainable sources. Constructed from engineered timber slow grown in cold climates, their strength, stability and beauty are guaranteed. Please do get in touch to receive expert advice and to see how beautfiul timber windows and doors really can enhance the value & beauty of your home. AMERSHAM BIRMINGHAM (HARBORNE) BLANDFORD BOURNEMOUTH BRISTOL (CLIFTON) BURY ST EDMUNDS CATERHAM CARDIFF CARMARTHEN CHANNEL ISLANDS CHELTENHAM CIRENCESTER COLCHESTER DENBIGH
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IN A COUNTRY GARDEN
AMPHIBIAN HIDEOUT Wildlife World Frogilo ceramic frog and toad home, £15.54, Amazon
SNACK ATTACK Acorn bird feeder with 200g nuts, £14, National Trust Shop MIXED MATERIALS Natural bug hotel, £16, A Twist of Somerset
HIDING PLACE Squirrel’s drey, £23, Manufactum HOME SWEET HOME Tawny owl box, £99.95, Garden Nature
Welcoming
RETREATS FOR WILDLIFE IDEAL ROOSTING Vincent pro bat box, £67.20, Keen Gardener BEE&B Beepot concrete planter and bee house in Natural White, £49, Green & Blue
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS
Did you know? SAFE NEST Hedgehog pot, £23.99, Crocus
HEDGEHOGS ARE LACTOSE INTOLERANT SO NEVER LEAVE THEM A BOWL OF MILK. INSTEAD, PROVIDE FRESH WATER IN A SHALLOW DISH
HONEYCOMB BUZZ Shetland wild bee house in pine, £25, Garden Trading
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KENT GARDEN
DUE SOUTH
It’s little wonder that the Dobsons decided on a plethora of outdoor platforms in order to bask fully in the delights of their south facing Kent garden
The middle deck edged in autumn borders of Pennisetum, Miscanthus, catmint, Salvias, Verbena bonariensis, globe thistles, Persicaria, hardy geraniums and sedums
An arch is cut into an old yew hedge, framing a view of the Cornus kousa (dogwood) beyond
W AT HOM E WIT H… Owners Steven and Calista Dobson.
House Malling Well House, an award-winning modern design built in the 1970s in Plaxtol, Kent.
Features A two-acre modern garden on a hillside, with outdoor decks, autumn borders of grasses and perennials; vegetable area, orchard and an arboretum.
Soil Clay Aspect Due south
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hen blessed with long-established trees, their presence ensures that even a neglected garden retains the distinction of linking the past with the present and future, as their canopies broaden and shadows lengthen with the passage of time. It was, without doubt, the sight of magnificent trees set against an open rural landscape of hills, spinneys and valleys that instantly attracted Steven and Calista Dobson to their Kent home. ‘We felt really fortunate to inherit such a variety of beautiful, mature trees that were planted by the original owners who built the house,’ recalls Calista. By the time the couple had walked round the garden, they had fallen in love with the place, drawn as much by the light-filled modern interior of the house as the splendid array of trees. ‘They make the property feel incredibly private, even though we are actually in the centre of a village,’ explains Calista. However, while the previous owners had put a lot of effort into modernising and extending the house, the garden had become very overgrown. The greatest challenge was the slope which created a large difference in height between the house and its surroundings, while the existing narrow decks blocked views of the garden from indoors. In addition, there was no planting near the house, just mostly lawn, so it seemed to Calista and Steven that they were looking down on the garden from above, as opposed to feeling immersed in it. They were also keen to create an outdoor space to enjoy all year round, an aspect greatly influenced by Calista who was brought up in Canberra and subsequently lived in Sydney. ‘The lifestyle in Australia is outdoors focused, and there is a constant flow from indoors to outdoors, in which patios, pergolas and barbecues feel >
KENT GARDEN
IT’S PRIVATE, ❝QUIET AND
PEACEFUL. WE LOVE WILDLIFE AND OUR GARDEN IS FULL OF BIRDS, BEES, NEWTS, FROGS, AND TOADS TO NAME A FEW
❞
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A view from the lowest deck to the highest, seen over autumn borders of flowering perennials and ornamental grasses
CH&I lovesÉ SLOPING GARDENS
like an extension of the house,’ she points out. ‘We both like contemporary design and really wanted to recreate that feeling of connection between interior and outdoor living here.’ They consulted garden designer, Nic Howard, who instantly grasped the design issues. He pointed out that the existing narrow decks didn’t balance the strong lines of the house and, from below, could almost be mistaken for slim shadows. His design mirrors the lines and shape of the house by pushing out the deck to create really large areas, with lighting to bring them alive at night. Nic also suggested planting hugely generous borders which, being so deep, are visible from indoors, and flank a sunken terrace on the lowest level, a lovely place to sit enveloped by the planting. He recommended planting four trees in the lower and middle terraces, choosing Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’, ornamental pears, which are transformed by night lighting into elegant silhouettes. Now, the decks are used throughout the winter, being protected and enjoying a full day’s sun. As an added bonus, the composite decking warms up nicely and does not become slippery. Nowadays, while different species of conifers and a single Wellingtonia provide a constant evergreen backdrop, each season brings something different. Spring opens with unfurling foliage on deciduous trees, starting with the willows in the valley, and then birches, beeches, Persian ironwood, red-leaved maples and a flowering foxglove tree. As blossom scatters, tulips are followed by alliums and peonies. By now, the ornamental grasses have awakened, accompanied by a succession of perennials lasting well > 126
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
The house sits high on the plot and when Calista and Steven first moved in, the garden felt very removed, whereas they were keen to feel a connection with the outdoors from both inside the house, and as soon as they went out onto the deck. • Steep banks and slopes always pose a challenge for gardeners, and planting them is a great solution, explains designer Nic Howard. ‘Planting can absorb a level change and is not only softer to look at than terraces created from hard landscaping materials, but is also much more cost effective.’ • Using plants also has the advantage that the roots reach down, binding the ground and preventing soil erosion. • Once established, planting helps to ‘ground’ a house, bridging the gap between building and garden, making it sit more comfortably with its surroundings. • ‘We also use naturalistic planting to soften level changes in a garden, especially if it is near the boundary,’ points out Nic. ‘It’s low maintenance, increases wildlife and blurs the transition between the boundary and surrounding landscape.’
KENT GARDEN
❝ We really wanted to create a connection between interior and outdoor living here
❞
Four Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’ ornamental pear trees are planted in the lowest seating terrace, which is edged in autumn borders of herbaceous flowering plants and ornamental grasses
View from the highest deck over the autumn borders, lawn and to countryside beyond
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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
ON OUR DOORSTEPÉ Visit… ‘Great Comp Garden, Platt, Kent, home to Dyson’s Nurseries, a salvia specialist with a wonderful range of salvias. (greatcompgarden.co.uk).’
Go for a meal at… ‘The Papermakers Arms, Plaxtol, Kent is a friendly country pub using seasonal and local produce to create great food. (papermakersarms.com).’ Shop at… ‘Wood Cottage Nursery, Nettlestead Green, Kent, is an independent family-run business with a wide variety of plants. (woodcottagenursery.com).’
FEATURE AND PHOTOGRAPHS NICOLA STOCKEN
into autumn. ‘All winter the border stands tall, and the grasses look amazing frosted, while many birds come to eat the seeds.’ Calista added Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ to the original borders which flower continually for more than six months. These salvias are paired with Mexican feather grass, Stipa tenuissima ‘Ponytails’. Another favourite of the couple is globe thistle, Echinops ritro ‘Veitch’s Blue’, a prickly but easy-going perennial with striking blue flowers that attracts bees and butterflies. However, Penstemons — she grows ‘Garnet’ and ‘Dark Towers’ — have proved to be rather demanding. ‘I specifically requested them and Nic did warn me that they can be temperamental, but I love them, so insisted,’ says Calista. Interspersed among the flowering plants are ornamental grasses —various stipas and miscanthus, as well as Panicum virgatum ‘Squaw’, Sesleria autumnalis and Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Cassian’, a dwarf fountain grass that forms a striking clump beside the sunken deck. The grasses add an informal, calming look, with many of the larger ones lingering throughout the winter, adding structure and interest. Becoming acquainted with so many plants has proved a steep learning curve and, although Calista always researches carefully, there is, she insists, no substitute for actual hands-on gardening. ‘Books are a useful guide, but it is only when you grow a plant that you really discover the soil it prefers, and how much water it needs.’ However, she is no slave to her garden and while mulching thickly in spring, her grip on weeds eases in step with the advancing year. ‘I try to keep on top of weeds until about the end of June when I run out of steam. After that, I largely let the garden be, and enjoy it.’
KENT GARDEN
1
2
3
Calista’s favourite blooms
1 Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’, an evergreen with spires of blue flowers.
2 Salvia microphylla ‘Cerro Potosi’, baby sage, bears magenta-pink tubular flowers. 3 Salvia ‘Amistad’, sage, a striking perennial with aromatic foliage. 4 Dahlia ‘Bayou’, a purple-pink flower with green foliage at the base. 5 Zinnia elegans ‘Benary’s Giant Purple’, a half hardy annual originating from Mexico. 6 Helenium ‘Moerheim Beauty’, a tall perennial also known as sneezeweed. 7 Persicaria amplexicaulis ‘High Society’, has masses of pink flower spikes. 4
6
8 Echinops ritro ‘Veitch’s Blue’, globe thistle, a prickly perennial loved by bees.
7
5
8
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Live Life Well
HEALTH, HAPPINESS, FASHION, TRAVEL, PETS, PASTIMES AND OTHER THINGS TO MAKE LIFE LOVELY
THINGS TO SEE, PICK AND DO Pick… sloes, in season mid-Oct to early Nov. Collect after the first frost or freeze overnight to soften their skins. Follow… Ashridge Estate’s Autumn Colour Trail to see Hertfordshire’s trees in full colour (nationaltrust.org.uk).
As the nights draw in, fill your home with scents of the season. Firewood Fig candle, £12.99, H&M Home
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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
Celebrate… the written word at Cheltenham’s Literature Festival, 2-11 Oct (cheltenhamfestivals.com).
FEATURE TARA KING
Learn… the art of loom weaving at a one-day workshop in Bristol, 28 Sept, £130 (thebristolartisan.com).
LIVE LIFE WELL
SLEEP WELL Making early nights twice as nice, British brand Piglet has added to its pyjama collection with a variety of comfortable new nightwear styles, from cute cami sets to stylish shirts and dresses, all made from 100% natural linen. They can be personalised, too. White linen night dress, £59, Piglet
LISTEN UP Looking for new headphones? House of Marley manufactures some of the most eco-friendly designs on the market. Its recently launched Smile Jamaica Wireless 2 set, £29.99, features FSC certified wooden ear buds and colourful braided cables made from recycled water bottles. The packaging is 100% recyclable, too.
Positive thoughts Mastering the art of mindfulness is something we could all benefit from and listening to the Untangle podcasts is a great place to start. You’ll hear inspirational stories of how people have used meditation to change their lives as well as interviews with experts in the field. Topics include how to live life to the full and retraining your brain to boost happy chemicals.
Zero to hero New beauty brand Milly & Sissy are revolutionising the way we wash with a zero-waste line of ‘just add water’ handwash, shampoo and body crème. Made from natural, ethically-sourced ingredients, the products arrive as powder in compostable paper sachets to be mixed at home and dispensed into reusable bottles. Scents include fresh apple and cherry blossom, prices start at £5.50.
TIMELESS COLLECTION Dutch entrepreneurs Bieke van Orten and Thijs Verhoeven have launched a range of watches with the faces left blank to inspire wearers to live in the moment. Latest designs include a limited edition mesh gold strap, £59.95, The Watch Now. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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LIVE LIFE WELL
3 of the best…
3 STEPS TO…
eco-friendly home working CHOOSE THE RIGHT WRITING MATERIALS Bypass plastic pens for pencils, a refillable fountain pen or pens made from recycled materials, such as r-Rubbish recycled paper pen, £4 for 10, remarkable.co.uk DITCH SCREEN WIPES They generally head to landfill, where they take 100 years to disintegrate. Instead, wipe down with an equal-parts solution of distilled water and white vinegar.
hand sanitisers Made from natural ingredients
BOTA NICAL BEAUTY This non-sticky spray is made in Cornwall and contains sanitising essential oils including lemongrass, lavendin and tea tree – it smells amazing, too. £6.75 for 50ml, Made for Life Organics
GO PAPER FREE Upload a free scanning app and cut down on printing by scanning your signature and have it stored ready to add to documents.
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NATU R E NU RTU RE As well as antibacterial tea tree, this award-winning spray includes sweet orange essential oil, known for its antiinflammatory properties, to soothe sore hands. £16 for 50ml, Haoma
LITTER PICK
SELF CARE
Did you know more than two million tonnes of cat litter ends up in UK landfill every year? Reduce your kitty’s impact by switching to Natusan’s all-natural version. Made from PEFC-certified recycled wood materials, it’s biodegradable, compostable and chemical free. From £12.99 for a 7ltr bag.
Kit out your first aid box with PATCH plasters, £7 for a box of 25, made from 100% organic bamboo fibre. The hypoallergenic strips (perfect for those with sensitive skin) have been enriched with aloe vera to sooth cuts, blisters and abrasions the natural way.
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
FEATURE TARA KING
Desk light in brass and Black, £168, Pooky
REF ILLAB LE OPTI ON Certified by the Soil Association, this refillable spray cleans and nourishes hands simultaneously thanks to a blend of Hebridean seaweed extract, calming lavender and juniper. £14.50 for 170ml, Ishga
LIVE LIFE WELL
Horse riding has a calming influence on Tabitha
MY COUNTRY PASSION
Horse riding FEATURE TARA KING PHOTOGRAPH ALEXIS KNIGHT
Hairdresser Tabitha James-Kraan grew up riding horses, but it wasn’t until she stopped that she realised the calming effect it had on her life I can still remember the first time that I fell in love with horse riding. I was 11 years old, sitting on my pony, when I felt a deep connection with him. I quickly realised that structured lessons weren’t for me. I learned through natural instinct instead – falling off a few times certainly taught me what not to do! My priority was to build a relationship with the animals and take my cues from them.
There was a huge period of my life where I stopped riding altogether. I can now see that the relationship I had with them as a child completed me. I didn’t realise that’s what was missing until I had horses in my life again. Five years ago, I started taking my son to riding lessons. It reignited my passion and I decided to buy two horses so we could ride together. They live at an organic farm close to where we live in the
Cotswolds. The surroundings are truly beautiful. Jack is an ex-racehorse that I’ve taken in; Dora is a traditional Irish Cob. It’s not just the physical act of riding that gives me headspace, its so much more than that. Being around my horses has such a calming effect on my mood. I see it as a form of meditation. I love to go out early in the mornings, and just sit with them in the meadow. I really believe that they can see into our world and, through their eyes, we see into theirs. If I’m feeling stressed they can pick it up straight away; they won’t let me near them unless I’m fully present in the moment – a good incentive to put my phone away and just relax. Time with my horses is everything in terms of achieving a perfect work/ life balance. As well as allowing time for mindfulness in nature, it offers other positives: fitness (it’s great for toning), social and leadership skills, to name just a few. They’re completely dependent on me, so come rain or shine, I’m out there caring for them. It’s so rewarding. If formal riding lessons aren’t for you, don’t be put off – I’d recommend looking into natural horsemanship. They’re such wonderful animals. Start by building a relationship with them and the rest will naturally follow. My horses challenge me and help me grow every day, I couldn’t imagine my life without them now.
Discover more...
Try your hand at natural horsemanship techniques by taking part in a taster day on a farm in rural Sussex. Sign up at whisperingequus.co.uk COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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HOME TECH
Buy the best...
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BEST FOR PRO-BAKING
Kenwood Titanium Chef Patissier XL, £749.99, John Lewis & Partners With its built-in scales, touch screen design and powerful Quiet Mark certified 1400W motor, Kenwood’s latest mixer is a powerhouse of a machine ideal for keen bakers. As well as featuring six easy preset functions, the ingenious heated element on the base will gently prove dough, soften butter or melt chocolate. Storage is made all the easier thanks to the 5ltr and 7ltr bowls that neatly nest together, saving you space on the kitchen worktop.
BEST FOR ICONIC STYLE
■ MULTI-FUNCTION ATTACHMENTS Any stand mixer worth its salt will come with three standard attachments – a whisk, a beater and a dough hook. If you’re investing in a pricier model, it’s definitely worth looking for one that you can add more attachments to so that you can expand its use, as well as eliminating the need for buying separate different appliances or gadgets. ■ SIZE MATTERS If you’re feeding a family of three or four, you won’t need to worry too much about bowl capacity, but for larger families or batch bakers, the larger the bowl, the better. The average size is around 4ltrs, but some mixers conveniently come with a choice of two sizes. 134
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
BEST FOR EVERYDAY USE
The Bakery Boss in Brushed Aluminium, £399.95, Sage Slightly more affordable than the go-to mixer brands, the LED display, 12-speed settings and 1200W motor make this model well worth the spend. Its planetary mixing action ensures every last bit of the contents are whipped up by the attachments and it comes with both a 4.7ltr glass bowl and 3.8ltr stainless steel bowl for the ultimate in convenience.
FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI
■ MANUAL VS DIGITAL While some models feature traditional, rotary-operated functionality, others have digital presets and even LED displays. While the benefits of digital displays include a variety of settings, as well as handy timers to prevent over-mixing, others may argue that these are unnecessary distractions and would prefer to rely on intuition. Which you opt for is really down to your personal preference.
5KSM185PS 4.8ltr Artisan tilt-head stand mixer in Kyoto Glow, £599, KitchenAid Making possibly more appearances on GBBO than Prue Leith, no stand mixer round-up is complete without KitchenAid’s Artisan mixer. This iconic beauty has a 300W direct drive motor and comes with two bowls – 4.8ltr and 3ltr. There is a wide array of attachments available to go with it that will transform the mixer into a range of different appliances, from a food processor or sausage stuffer to various pasta makers and juicers.
IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN
COOKS’ NOTES
Gin o’clock Hepple is an award-winning gin co-created by food writer and chef Val Warner and drink guru Nick Strangeway. It’s known as a ‘slow gin’ as it takes seven times longer to make than your usual gin and uses three processes to get the perfect flavour. Distilled in the moors of Northumbria, it is the only gin to use the unripe juniper berries that grow nearby. Don’t just take our word for it, Prince Charles likes it, too! Hepple Gin, £36, 70cl, hepplespirits.com.
REALLY WILD KITCHENS Who doesn’t love to have a good nose around someone else’s kitchen? Wild Kitchen gives an insight into the culinary ‘wild side’ of cooks, chefs and bloggers, from forest foragers to urban herb growers, and brings you a selection of beautiful recipes using seasonal ingredients. Wild Kitchen: Nature-Loving Chefs at Home by Claire Bingham (£25, Thames & Hudson).
FEATURE SAMUEL GOLDSMITH
FRESH FROM THE FIELD Locals have been enjoying Penbedw lamb for years, but this family-run farm in Wales delivers its meat across the UK. The farm offers different boxes, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a family celebration – from the Penbedw Special (£100 for half a lamb, feeding 10-12) to the Sunday Roast and BBQ Boxes (both £55, containing quarter of a lamb, feeding six). The packaging is also biodegradeable. Visit penbedwlamb.com.
Totally handmade For when you don’t want the fuss of an electric blender, this Kilner 1ltr sauce press jar set is just the job. Simply fill the hopper and turn the handle to create a homemade sauce. A truly liberating experience and perfect for using up your tomatoes to make a passata or creating a fresh apple sauce. £43, viners.co.uk COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD
CHARGRILLED SAFFRON SQUID WITH CHILLI & CHARRED LEMONS
Everyday easy
PERSIAN
BRING YOUR TABLE TO LIFE WITH THIS SELECTION OF OUR FAVOURITE RECIPES FROM SABRINA GHAYOUR’S LATEST BOOK, SIMPLY COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD
CHARGRILLED SAFFRON SQUID WITH CHILLI & CHARRED LEMONS Chargrilled squid always reminds me of summer holidays in the Mediterranean. Every time I cook it, I wonder why I don’t make it more often, as there is nothing fiddly involved. The crispy garlic, charred chilli and the juice from the lemons in this recipe turn this dish into something truly spectacular and packed full of flavour.
LAMB, CUMIN, CORIANDER & CHILLI KEBABS My local Pakistani restaurant has always made the most insanely delicious lamb kebabs, and while this recipe is very different, it is inspired by their fiery and aromatic creation, and I have simplified it to suit home cooking using a griddle pan on the hob. These are a delicious delight and perfect with a little cooling yogurt on the side.
MAKES 6 SERVES 4
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Vegetable oil, for frying 4 garlic cloves, thinly
2 lemons, halved 2 long red chillies
500g minced lamb (20% fat) 1 onion, minced in a
sliced
50g rocket leaves
food processor
Maldon sea salt flakes
8 frozen squid tubes (about 400g total
Olive oil, for drizzling Maldon sea salt flakes
and drained of any liquid, or very finely
and freshly ground black pepper
weight), defrosted 2 pinches of saffron
and black pepper
chopped 4 fat garlic cloves,
Pul biber chilli flakes, to garnish
threads
minced 50g fresh coriander,
To serve Rice or flatbreads
1 Line a plate with a double layer of kitchen paper. Pour vegetable oil into a small saucepan to a depth of about 1cm. Add the garlic slices and fry over a medium-low heat for a few minutes until lightly golden (avoid browning as they will taste bitter). Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the paper-lined plate to drain. 2 Using a sharp knife, cut down one side of each squid tube and open it out flat on the chopping board with the outside facing up. Score the outside flesh gently in diagonal lines about 1cm apart, first in one direction and then in the opposite direction, to create a diamond pattern. Cut in half so that you get two pieces from each squid body. Place all the squid pieces in a small bowl or food bag, crumble in the saffron and rub it into the squid. Cover the bowl with clingfilm or seal the bag and leave to marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hr. 3 Heat a non-stick griddle pan over a high heat. Once hot, chargrill the squid for 2-3 mins on each side, then remove from the pan and transfer to a plate. Add the chillies and lemons (cut side down) to the griddle and cook, turning the chillies frequently until charred all over. Arrange the rocket on plates with the chargrilled squid pieces, then thinly slice the charred chillies and sprinkle over. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Top with the fried garlic slices and serve with the charred lemon halves.
finely chopped
Greek or natural yogurt
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
1tbsp cumin seeds 1-2tsp chilli flakes, to taste
1 Put all the main ingredients into a large mixing bowl and, using your hands, work them together really well, pummelling the meat mixture for several minutes into a smooth paste so everything is well combined. 2 Divide the mixture into 6 portions and form each portion into a sausage shape, then thread on to 6 metal or wooden skewers. Roll each sausage on a chopping board to elongate to about 12cm long. 3 Preheat a non-stick griddle pan over a high heat. Once hot, cook the kebabs for about 8-10 mins, turning them halfway through the cooking time, until nicely browned on both sides and cooked through. 4 Sprinkle with pul biber and serve with rice or flatbreads and Greek or natural yogurt. TIP Alternatively, cook these kebabs in the oven at its highest fan setting for 12 mins, or until cooked through and just starting to brown.
LAMB, CUMIN, CORIANDER & CHILLI KEBABS
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD
RED KIDNEY BEAN AND SWEET POTATO STEW WITH YOGURT & HOT MINT OIL The yogurt in this vegetarian stew is a perfect, cooling contrast, and the hot mint oil – a very Persian addition we call nana daagh – finishes the dish incredibly well. You can serve this with rice or bread, and leftovers make an excellent brunch dish with poached eggs.
SERVES 4-6
PEAR, CHICKPEA & GREEN LEAF SALAD WITH MAPLE HARISSA DRESSING I love using fresh fruit in salads, and the intense sweetness of pears means they can stand up to much bolder flavours like blue cheese and, most valuable to me, chilli and spice. This is a great combination and the addition of chickpeas makes it ever so much more than a salad. The maple syrup and harissa work like magic to dress the ingredients, and I promise you, this is a wonderful addition to any table.
SERVES 4-6 50g rocket leaves 50g watercress 2 pears, halved, cored and thinly sliced 400g can chickpeas,
For the dressing 1 generous tbsp maple syrup 1tbsp olive oil Juice of ½ lemon 1tsp rose harissa
drained and rinsed Handful of sunflower seeds, to garnish
Generous amount of Maldon sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper
1 Arrange the rocket leaves and watercress, pear slices and chickpeas in a large shallow bowl or on a large platter. 2 Mix all the dressing ingredients together in a jug or small bowl, then pour over the salad. 3 Sprinkle with the sunflower seeds to garnish and serve immediately.
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Vegetable oil, for frying 1 large onion, diced 4 fat garlic cloves, thinly
peeled and cut into
sliced
beans, drained
2tsp cumin seeds 1tsp ground cinnamon
1 small packet (30g) of flat leaf parsley, chopped
1tsp ground turmeric 1tsp chilli flakes
1tbsp dried mint 150g Greek yogurt
690g passata 500g sweet potato,
Maldon sea salt flakes and black pepper
1cm chunks 400g can red kidney
1 Place a large saucepan over a medium heat and pour in enough oil to coat the base of the pan. Add the onion and cook for a few mins until it begins to turn translucent, then add the garlic, stirring to ensure it doesn’t burn. Continue cooking until both have softened, without browning. Add the spices and coat the onion mixture in them, then cook, stirring, for a minute or so. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the passata. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered, for about 25 mins. 2 Stir the sweet potato into the stew and cook for a further 20 minutes or so until the sweet potato is tender, then add the beans and most of the parsley and heat through. 3 Place a separate pan over a medium heat, add the dried mint and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat the mint for a few minutes, without letting it burn. Remove the pan from the heat. 4 Transfer the stew to bowls, add dollops of the yogurt around the dish and sprinkle over the remaining parsley, then pour over the hot mint oil and serve immediately.
RED KIDNEY BEAN AND SWEET POTATO STEW WITH YOGURT & HOT MINT OIL
BARBERRY FOOL If you’re in need of a foolproof, super-quick dessert, then this is the one. While Persians never use barberries in desserts, I am an experimenter and one who likes to get the best from the ingredients I buy. Barberries have a wonderfully sour nature that makes them incredibly versatile in cooking, marinades, butter compounds and even drinks‌ so why not in a dessert?
SERVES 6 50g dried barberries, plus extra to decorate 4tbsp boiling water 600ml double cream 6tbsp icing sugar
4tbsp Greek yogurt Handful of pistachio slivers (or very roughly chopped whole nuts), to decorate
1 Put the barberries into a heatproof mixing bowl, pour over the boiling water and leave to soak for a few minutes. 2 Transfer the barberries and their soaking liquid to a blender and blitz to a paste. 3 Using an electric hand whisk, whip the cream with the icing sugar in a large mixing bowl until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in the barberry paste and Greek yogurt. 4 Serve in individual glasses, and decorate with a few extra barberries and the pistachios.
GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD
‘I DON’T HAVE RULES IN MY KITCHEN’ WE CAUGHT UP WITH AWARD-WINNING FOOD WRITER AND CHEF SABRINA GHAYOUR TO FIND OUT ABOUT HER NEW BOOK, SIMPLY, AND TO DISCUSS HER APPROACH TO COOKING AND WHY SHE SWAPPED LONDON FOR YORKSHIRE
FEATURE SAMUEL GOLDSMITH INTERVIEW JESSICA RANSOM PHOTOGRAPHS KRIS KIRKHAM
What kind of cook are you? ‘I’ve never been somebody to sweat the small stuff when it comes to cooking. I just go with the flow and I don’t have rules in my kitchen. I hate when we are told “what should be” because it is so limiting. It is about providing inspiration rather than a recipe that you cannot deviate from.’ Do you like to be very organised in your kitchen? ‘I’m a crammer – you open the cupboard and you’ve got to duck half the time because you don’t know what is going to come flying out at you…’ What do you eat and cook with most? ‘[I] swing from Vietnam to Mexico to Peru to Persia [and] England – you’ve got to keep it interesting. Most of my inspiration now comes from travel. The same ingredients tend to get recycled. We’ve all bought books where they have said go and get ground extract of pigeons tits or something like that, you stick it in the cupboard then five years later you’re like “I paid six quid for that. What the hell am going to use that in?”’
Do you have any foodie indulgences? ‘My cravings are entirely mood driven. Unfortunately, once I get a craving, nothing will stop me from wanting to eat that. I can be incredibly indulgent when I’m cooking for myself and think, “Stuff it, I’m going to get a whole lobster and make lobster spaghetti for myself.” I can move from caviar to Monster Munch in one swift cut. I never let anything tell me what I should or shouldn’t eat. If I’m in the mood to eat light, or have cookies and crisps, then I ride that wave until the feeling expires. That’s what balance is and that is probably why I’m more healthy in my forties than probably I’ve ever been in my life.’ You moved to Yorkshire last year, how has it changed your lifestyle? ‘I came to eat in a restaurant called the Black Swan and just fell in love with the area; North Yorkshire is just beautiful. I live in a village with just a post box and a bus stop. The house is nothing complicated but the garden is spectacular; it’s just under an acre and every
fruit tree known to man exists here. I never even had a window box growing up. Now I’m making apple sauce and drying lavender.’ What can we expect from Simply? ‘People might think that Simply is my simplified version of food but no – because how do you pare back simplicity itself? Simply was just a way of summing up my food. I never wanted to be the poster child for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine; I did want to share these recipes and my ridiculously simple way to make them. My style is bold. I like it to be easy, accessible, no-fuss, big delivery flavour wise, mostly low cost and low skill... So it is just Simply Sabrina.’
• Simply: Easy Everyday Dishes by Sabrina Ghayour (£26, Mitchell Beazley) Photographs Kris Kirkham
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ABOUT the HOUSE Products and services designed to enhance your living space
BESPOKE BLINDS FOR STYLISH LIVING Control the temperature and ambience of your home with these stunning bespoke blinds. Provide valuable shade and insulation, and help reduce glare to create a relaxing environment. Perfect for conservatories, orangeries, gables, roof lanterns and bi-folding doors, with remote control options and smart device integration. Contact Conservatory Blinds Limited for your free brochure or quotation, and save up to 25% off the most popular blinds. Call 0800 071 8888 or visit www.conservatoryblinds.co.uk/offers
SIT BACK AND RELAX ON THIS RECLINING STEAMER CHAIR A beautiful reclining hardwood Steamer Chair with foldable and totally removable footrest to transform from a lounger into a chair instantly. Stained, oiled and gently rubbed down by hand, the finish is a delight and matches our furniture range. The luxury cushion pictured is an available extra at £49.99 (RRP £69.99) Steamer Chair £129.99 (RRP £189.99) whilst stocks last. To order please visit www.plant-theatre.co.uk. The Steamer unfolds straight from the box. Includes free UK mainland delivery.
EVERY GARDEN DESERVES A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN ROOM
SAVE £100 ON THIS STUNNING OUTDOOR CORNER SOFA SET
With prices starting from as little as £7,788, redefining your living or working space has never been easier.
The Chesterton sofa and matching tempered glass-topped coffee table are perfect for entertaining outdoors. Offering seating for five, with chunky seat, back and side cushions. Covers are removable so they can be hand washed to deal with stubborn stains. Maintenance-free construction of thick polyrattan this superb set can even be left out all-year round.
Contact us for a copy of our catalogue or a FREE no obligation consultation. Telephone: 0800 242 5559 Website: smartgardenoffices.co.uk
Was £599, now £499 when you quote M7SEP20 a saving of £100! Visit outandout.com or call 02037 728 752 by 01.10.20. Delivery Excluded
Leading British garden room manufacturer SMART offer 7 unique ranges, in over 60 sizes along with a wide choice of optional extras and upgrades, enabling you to create an amazing space to work, rest or play.
IS YOUR CONSERVATORY TOO HOT IN SUMMER AND TOO COLD IN WINTER?
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This fast and efficient solution will transform your conservatory into a cool comfortable living space. Exclusive to Conservatory Insulations, the UK market leaders, and comprising technology developed by NASA for the Apollo programme, the Conservaheat layered foil quilt system is suitable for roofs of all styles and will insulate your conservatory for a fraction of the cost of a new tiled roof. A proven energy-saving product - liable to only 5% VAT - your new conservatory insulation will allow you to relax in comfort. Readers receive an exclusive 25% discount. For a free site survey, visit conservatoryinsulations.com or call 0800 180 4000 and quote promo-code CH920.
HOME WORKING DESK- £30 OFF The Vola is a perfect contemporary home office solution that allows you to create an organised and productive workspace. The desk's L-shaped design optimises space by fitting neatly into a corner or against a wall. Measuring W.135 x H.79.5 x D.69.5cm, its shelf and lower cubby cube are perfect for storing all your office essentials. Normally £139, now £109. To get your £30 discount use code M7SEP20A at outandout.com or call 02037 728 752 by 01.10.20. Delivery Excluded.
See all our listings at about-the-house.co.uk. To advertise please contact Michael on 020 7843 6958 or email michaelguest@about-the-house.co.uk
For all our product listings, visit about-the-house.co.uk DAVID BOWIE MUSIC ICON TEA TOWEL
STUNNING ART STUDIOS
If you crave a light and airy space to spend many creative hours without any distractions, 365 days a year, then you need to invest in a garden studio. Leading British garden room manufacturer SMART offer 7 unique ranges, in over 60 sizes along with a wide choice of optional extras and upgrades. With prices starting from as little as £7,944, creating your perfect art studio has never been easier. Contact us for a copy of our catalogue or a FREE no obligation consultation. Telephone: 0800 242 5559 Website: smartgardenoffices.co.uk
BOTANICAL GIFT BOX A perfectly selected range of gifts for those who love plants in their home and spending time in the garden. Box includes: Beebomb - wild flower seed pellets, Planter pot - ideal for a succulent, Veggie patch seeds, Patterned hanging pot, Jute garden string, Sarah Edmonds bold bird badges x2 Items individually wrapped RRP £40 - £5 OFF with code BOX5 Some contents may vary on colour/style according to stock availability. More boxes to send to loved ones to show your thinking of them are available online at www.gingerzebra.shop
This bright and bold statement tea towel will make drying up all the more fun. This is just one in a range we have available – Amy Winehouse, Freddie Mercury and George Michael are few more we have in stock. The colours are vibrant and the art work is strong and eye catching. Designed and made in England on 100% cotton, they make ideal gifts for those hard to buy for friends and look great in the kitchen as a set. Only £13.00 + postage. These and more unique gifts available online at www. gingerzebra.shop where you can find special gifts for friends and family.
ENTERTAIN AT HOME WITH A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN ROOM
Staying in is the new going out, and what better way to do that than with your very own garden room. Leading British garden room manufacturer SMART offer 7 unique ranges, in over 60 sizes with a wide choice of optional extras and upgrades. With prices from as little as £7,944, creating your perfect space has never been easier.
Contact us for a copy of our catalogue or a FREE no obligation consultation. Telephone: 0800 242 5559 Website: smartgardenoffices.co.uk
TITS MUG – SARAH EDMONDS A fun ceramic mug featuring 8 hand drawn birds, so you can learn a bit too whilst enjoying a brew. It comes packaged in a bright custom printed box, making it the ideal gift for nature and pun-loving friends.
STUNNING GARDEN OFFICES
Working from home has never been easier. By investing in your very own garden office, you will save on time, money and stress whilst creating a better work life balance. Crafted, manufactured and professionally installed in the UK, SMART offers a wide choice of styles, sizes and optional extras. Prices start from as little as £7,944. Contact us for a copy of our catalogue or a FREE no obligation consultation. Telephone: 0800 242 5559 Website: smartgardenoffices.co.uk
We have a variety products in this range, coasters, tea towels and tote bags with Peckers & Boobies to name a few. Have a look online to see them all. Produced in the UK. 100% dishwasher and microwave safe. Only £13.75 + postage. These and more unique gifts available online at www. gingerzebra.shop where you can find special gifts for friends and family.
About the House and the companies shown in this advertisement feature are wholly independent of Country Homes & Interiors Magazine. Care has been taken to establish that the advertisers are legitimate. It is recommended that you carry out your own checks before making a purchase. When making a purchase we recommend payment by credit card.
M A R K E T P L AC E Furniture
Great British Sofas
Sofas from £299 . Handmade in UK . Over 60 models to choose from . No risk 21 day money-back trial . 5 year hardwood frame guarantee . Delivered direct from our factory
30% off Summer Sale now on For a brochure call 01495 244226 or visit www.sofasofa.co.uk SofaS and Sofa BedS
GREAT BRITISH HANDMADE LEATHER SOFAS DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER
Flooring
01509 234000- www.floorsofstone.com enquiries@floorsofstone.com
was £1659 Sale price £1249
Call now for a brochure or visit
01443 771222 www.thomaslloyd.com To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@ti-media.com
M A R K E T P L AC E Kitchens
AN ALBION BATH
Apollo bath - 2 sizes manufactured
TAKES A LITTLE LONGER
THE ELECTRIC RANGE
MODERN EFFICIENCY, CLASSIC GOOD LOOKS. Stay warmer in an Albion bath as our Iso Enamel material will keep your water hotter for longer and at less than half the weight of cast iron, an Albion bath is easier to locate and install. With a range of free standing baths from 1200mm 2000mm long, we’ve got all sizes of bathroom covered. Made by hand in our Essex factory, all Albion baths are manufactured to order so in both ways, an Albion bath takes a little longer.
NOW AVAILABLE IN MARINE BLUE
With six widths available and a choice of great colours we’re confident we have just the right EVERHOT for you.
Request your brochure of our range of over 50 free standing bath tubs, taps and sanitaryware items.
01255 831605 01453 890018 www.everhot.co.uk
albionbathco.com
ALBION BAT H C O M PA N Y HAND MADE IN ENGLAND
To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@ti-media.com
M A R K E T P L AC E Verandas
Beds & Bedding
ALUMINIUM PERGOLAS WITH ROTATING LOUVRE TECHNOLOGY GEGE HUAN R
Aluminium Pergolas
ROTATING LOUVRE TECHNOLOGY
GET UP TO
25%
24 MONTHS INTEREST FREE CREDIT AVAILABLE*
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For a FREE brochure or no obligation design consultation CALL US TODAY ON
0800 825 0534 or visit us online at www.nationwideltd.co.uk
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HOME INNOVATIONS
*Credit is subject to status and affordability. Representative Example: Cash price £4,500.00, 30% deposit of £1,350.00, amount of credit £3,150.00, annual rate of interest 0% p.a fixed, 0% APR Representative, 24 monthly repayments of £131.25, total amount payable £4,500.00 (including deposit).
Air Conditioning
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Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co.
Country Homes & Interiors Please contact Charlotte Beckett at charlotte.beckett@futurenet.com or 07813 031023
Hand made in Norfolk. Guaranteed to last a lifetime.
A family company.Where all our beds are lovingly hand crafted, on the Royal Sandringham Estate and come guaranteed to last a lifetime.
01485 542516 view our full range at
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Work with us to accelerate a cure Brain tumours affect more than 11,000 people every year and survival rates are among the lowest of all cancers. We need your support to help us get closer to defeating brain tumours. Text DEFEAT5 to donate £5, please help us to find a cure.
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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS PA R T N E R S H I P
ABSTRACT APPROACH SOURCE STRIKING ARTWORK BY PAINTER AND SCULPTOR JEFF MUHS ONLINE AT RUNWAY GALLERY
American artist Jeff Muhs is one of the sought-after artists featured on Runway Gallery, an online showcase of contemporary art. His innovative, abstract style shines through in oil paintings and concrete sculptures. Here, he shares his passion for nature and explains how it influences his work.
FEATURE TARA KING PHOTOGRAPH TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
I grew up in the Hamptons, surrounded by natural beauty. My father was a hunting and fishing guide, so I was out on the water with him as a young child from sunrise to sunset. I’ve always been passionate about drawing and painting, so it seemed natural for me to study at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan where I learnt the traditional techniques of oil painting. I moved back afterwards and have lived and worked here ever since. I think of my paintings as a reflection in a puddle. To me, each piece is a landscape, nature’s beauty distilled and rearranged into its most basic forms – light, colour and space. There are beautiful things within nature that you might not
Finely Twisted Linen, Jeff Muhs at Runway Gallery
Capsheaf, Jeff Muhs at Runway Gallery
the tension is released. It can take anything from twenty minutes to a month to make a painting. Most of the time is just spent looking – observing what’s beautiful about it and how to enhance that. I consider art as an investment in your quality of life. Few things exist solely but for the pleasure of experiencing it, so seek out pieces that resonate with you. I think that large, visually dynamic works benefit from being isolated in their own space, but there’s something beautiful about the poetry of grouping non-related works, too.
notice until someone points them out to you – that’s what I’m trying to do though my paintings. Some people say they look a bit like stone or marble. Oil on canvas is my main medium, but I’ve always been a sculptor. I learnt the art of wood sculpting as a child from my father, but it wasn’t until I built my first house that I discovered concrete as a medium. I became fascinated by it and have been experimenting ever since. Unlike my paintings, my sculptures are driven primarily by process and form; I love discovering new ways to create interesting shapes.
Buy stylish, affordable artwork from Jeff Muhs and other artists at runway-gallery.com
NEXT MON T H Urban-living and nature collide in perfect harmony for London-based artist Evi Antonio. We join her as she shares her love of capturing the emerging and unexpected beauty found around the city streets.
I make a lot of my own tools, from brushes to easels. I spend a lot of time visualising and planning the work I’m about to undertake, winding myself like a spring until COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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M Y FA V O U R I T E V I E W
Jenny loves to surprise friends with the view on drives through the valley
MY FAVOURITE VIEW...
Winnats Pass, Derbyshire About 30 years ago, after I’d moved up north for a job with the BBC, I was out for a drive across the Peak District and came across Winnats Pass in Derbyshire. It’s the most stunning
limestone valley and I never expected to discover something so awe-inspiring. The view itself is unexpected; you’re riding high on the top of the Peaks and all of a sudden there’s a huge dip and this vast valley opens up. You literally drive down the wedge of the valley – you’re almost enveloped by the sides of the hills and have to crane your neck up to see what it is you’re driving through. I love taking people there and not warning them about what they’re about to see and it just takes everyone’s breath away. Not long after I found Winnats Pass, my parents were looking for a place 150
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
to retire, and they settled in the beautiful village of Castleton, which the Pass is the gateway into. They moved into a little cottage from the 1600s and my mum got a job in the local shop selling Blue John’s stone, a mineral only found in that area – it’s quite a twee life really, and I love it! As lovely as the area is, it’s also quite spooky. The Pass itself is full of ghost stories and legends, and there are creepy caverns and caves which potholers explore. The name ‘Winnats Pass’ comes from ‘wind gate’, and it certainly is! Because it’s so narrow, all the wind gets trapped in the valley and the howling wind hits you as you head into Castleton. It’s one of those views that uplifts you, but in a more unusual way. Beauty doesn’t always have to be pretty flowers and sunshine; I sometimes
find the dark, dramatic, imposing landscapes the most invigorating. When it comes to landscapes like the Peak District I find a reassurance in how constant they are and that they’re not affected by anything that’s going on – those places will always be the same. Recently I’ve found a lot of comfort in this wonderful poem The Peace of Wild Things by Wendell Berry, which is about the fear of the unknown getting you down and how getting out into nature and having a walk can be incredibly reassuring. I’ve been sending it to everyone feeling overwhelmed this year and hope it helps them as much as it does me. Check out Jenny’s podcast Hot Mess Mums Club. Book tickets for her live interview series An Experience With, at anexperiencewith.com
FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT PHOTOGRAPHS (JENNY) OWEN JAMES VINCENT, (WINNATS PASS) MICHAEL BARROW/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO
The dramatic dip in the valley of Winnats Pass never fails to take TV presenter Jenny Powell’s breath away as she drives through the Peak District
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