Yael279 by El loco1919

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EST. 1920

BRITAIN’S BESTSELLING HOMES MAGAZINE

New projects for every budget BEST BUYS FOR A QUICK BEDROOM UPDATE Squeeze in a work space with style How to make a SMALL BATHROOM FEEL BIGGER Turn your spare room into a home gym

REAL-LIFE READ

I swapped houses “with my parents – and back again”

DR KITCH

◆ Supersized galley

◆ Modern rear extension ◆ Basement conversion

◆ French country idyll ◆ Colourful high-rise ﬂat ◆ Smart townhouse ◆ Eco bungalow renovation ◆ Boho new-build

US $9.99 AUS $9.99 NZ $12

Beautiful homes

£4.40

FEBRUARY 2019 Recall: 29/01/19

EDITOR’S LETTER

Welcome Vanessa STYLING SALLY DENNING PHOTOGRAPH POLLY WREFORD

Vanessa Richmond, Editor

The eagle-eyed among you will notice that we’ve made some changes to the magazine. Don’t panic! It’s still stuffed with all the inspiring real homes and easy update ideas you love, we’ve just made a few tweaks so it’ll be even harder to resist buying every month! I hope you’ll dip into our new real-people stories: on page 33, Sophie describes her experience of swapping homes with her parents, then switching back nine years later; married couple Noel and Claire take opposite sides in the debate, ‘Are books, CDs and DVDs just clutter?’ (page 63), and Susy shows us her private sanctum – a genuine Romany caravan at the bottom of her garden – in our backpage feature. Plus, if you’re planning a holiday, check out our new travel roundup on page 150 before you book!

FEBRUARY 2019

February 2019

What’s new 9 You deserve...

…a pretty cushion

10 How to add wow!

Fabulous finishing touches

12 Need to know

What’s hot this month

14 The shortlist

Velvet accents to add an ‘ooh…’

15 Ideal Vs Great Deal

Polished copper pieces

16 The shortlist

Sub-£50 room refreshers from the Ideal Home range at Very

17 Global glamour

Refresh your bedroom with the Ideal Home range at Very

Real homes 20 ‘We reinvented this house to suit us’

42 ‘This old French house needed love’

64 ‘We let this house’s style speak for itself’

86 ‘Bright colours make us happy!’

Style & decor 36 The new way to do Modern country

57 Pure & simple

Mood setting schemes

97 40 easy style updates

Smart tricks and clever buys

77 Work-life balance

Home office solutions

FEBRUARY 2019

140

Before & after 108 ‘This used to be our dark, dingy basement’

114 ‘We supersized a tiny galley kitchen’

120 ‘We painted it black but it feels bigger’

126 ‘We’ve given our Sixties bungalow a modern makeover’

130 ‘Our extension connects us to the garden’

Simple solutions 132 Genius problem solvers

for a smooth running life Clever finds and the latest home innovations

CONTENTS

108

64 135 Make a smarter cup of tea App-controlled kettles

Sail away on a cruise to the world’s most scenic spots

Regulars

into a gym All the hi-tech workout kit you need to get fitter at home

33 In my experience

‘I swapped house with my parents – twice’

Throw a posh pancake party

43%

Are books, CDs and DVDs just clutter?

140 Food with friends

Visit facebook. com/ideal home.co.uk

UP TO

63 The big question

Simple pleasures

The ultimate Welsh rarebit

SAVE

5 Editor’s letter

137 Turn your spare room

149 What’s for dinner?

To ﬁnd all the stockists in this issue, turn to page 160

150 Ideal Home travel

136 Save money on streaming with a sharing bundle Get the best value deal

120

138 Subscribe to Ideal Home 162 A space of my own

Enter writer Susy McPhee’s gypsy caravan hideaway

See our latest snaps @idealhomeuk

Be inspired at pinterest.com/ idealhomemag

Subscribe! A subscription makes a great gift or a lovely treat for yourself from just £22.99, saving 53%! Call 0330 333 1113 and quote the code NDS8 or visit idealhome.co.uk/NDS8

FEBRUARY 2019

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WHAT’S NEW

IN FEBRUARY

You deserve… a pretty cushion

FEATURE HOLLY WALSH

Simple pleasures are the most effective medication on grey February days, so we prescribe a healthy dose of happy colour and pattern to bring cheer to your sofa and a smile to your face. So, swap those tired cushions for something altogether more bright and beautiful!

WHERE TO BUY Allium scatter cushions in Coast, Sand Dune and Meadow, from £40 each, Sofa.com

FEBRUARY 2019

AHEAD OF THE CURVE Bolo hanging planter, £30, Hurn & Hurn

ABSRACT ADDITION Mirage leaf cushion, £59, Ferm Living

WALL WONDER Spectrum wall clock, £40, Habitat

CLASSIC REFORMATION Around candle holder, £75, Ferm Living WE’RE HOOKED Daniel Savage set of three wall hooks, £15, Dunelm

HOW TO ADD

wow! LEG WORK Dutchbone arabica coffee table, £79, Houseology

URBAN ECLECTIC Valli sideboard, £725; Maxiemus clock, £220; Marble and gold tray, £145; Matt black table lamp, £140; Flamengo vases, from £89 each, all Barker & Stonehouse

Go on, pick something you love – because every room needs a magic ingredient that takes it from finished to fabulous

TRAY CHIC Collector’s House tray, £30, John Lewis & Partners

SIMPLE SILHOUETTE Teapot, £25, Debenhams

FEBRUARY 2019

GREEN SCENE Juniper rug, from £65, Next Home

MODERN RETRO Nicoletti Novita Swing armchair, £895, Furniture Village

WHAT’S NEW SHAPE SHIFTING Damascios Poster 2, £35, 50x70cm, La Redoute

BOLD COLOUR BLOCKING Zania modular sofa in Dulux Think Palette, from £1,995, DFS

AMBER HUE Carafe, £8.99; tumbler, £2.99, both H&M Home

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING

POPPING PIECE Nyx ﬂoor lamp, £190, Habitat

UPLIFTING STYLE Raised spherical vase, £35, Amara

EMBRACE CURVES Enamel trays, £14 for two, Debenhams

MATERIAL MASH-UP Finn coffee table, £299, Made.com

FEBRUARY 2019

Bali double duvet set, £75, French Connection Home

NEED TO

know

We’ve been shamelessly snooping around the shops, so you don’t miss a single thing that matters...

PAINT EFFECTS – THEY’RE BACK! Changing Rooms circa 1998 may have given paint effects a bad name but could the Suede paint from Crown revive their reputation? The textured emulsion range has been around for a while but the refreshed muted palette means you can cheat a cool concrete effect or cover a wall with imperfections without learning how to rag roll. £21.50 for 2.5L, Crown.

IDEAL

Head’s up! French Connection’s doing bedlinen

The homeware collection from French Connection had us hooked from the beginning with its refined industrial furniture, tough luxe lighting and boho-chic textiles. So it’s no surprise then, that we’re loving its debut bedlinen range. The four options are all about grown-up global style, and with paredback palettes and subtle designs, they are perfect for layering with coloured sheets or for tying together a neutral room.

GREAT DEAL

BECAUSE EVEN SMALL APPLIANCES CAN BE SCANDI

A MINIMALIST’S DREAM Stelton Emma kettle, £139, Cloudberry Living

FEBRUARY 2019

SLEEK DESIGN Nordic kettle in grey, £49.99, Swan

SURPRISE IN STORE!

REMOVABLE WALLPAPER AT DUNELM Other than a few independents on Etsy, retailers haven’t bought into the idea of removable tile and wallpaper designs – until now. Dunelm’s range of removables not only enables renters to personalise their space, but they provide a quick refresh solution for homeowners, too.

WHAT’S NEW Cuddler sofa in purple velvet, £1,199, DFS

Thurloe sofa, £2,999, Sofa Workshop

FLORAL SOFAS ARE HAVING A MOMENT Ikea’s brought one out, so they’re officially a thing, with maximalism – the interiors buzzword of the moment – paving the way for their return. Sofa Workshop is also on board, with a little help from the V&A and its expertise in historical, timeless, pattern design. We love the eccentric country manor vibe of the new Thurloe.

Velvet – it’s here to stay

New research from DFS says that sales of its velvet-covered sofas and chairs went up threefold between 2017 and 2018. Maybe that’s because 50 per cent of us are preferring to stay in on Friday and Saturday nights rather than go out. Whether it’s because we have tighter budgets or just love our home comforts, we’re also entertaining more at home. The theory goes that we’re choosing velvet in a bid to recreate the look of posh bars. The Skinny locker, £199, Mustard Made

WE KEEP SEEING...

TEDDY BEAR TEXTURE It’s the shearling effect that’s adding extra aaah factor HUGGABLE DESIGN Teddy cushion, £22, Debenhams

SNUGGLY HEADREST Cushion cover, £19.99, H&M Home

IDEAL HOME

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING

loves

Stylish lockers

Practical but beautiful storage solutions are always a hot topic for us, so when we saw these lockers from fledgling company Mustard Made, we had to share. Thanks to the sophisticated colour options, they won’t feel like they belong in a kid’s room (although they would be perfect in one, too!). The website is full of inspirational shots that prove they can be worked into pretty much any style, and any room.

COSY CLADE Teddy Blanca ottoman, from £575, Meli Meli Home range, Att Pynta

LUXE LOUNGER Fox accent chair and footstool, £1,495, Habitat

FEBRUARY 2019

WHAT’S NEW

BEDROOM BESTIE Heather lounge chair in purple, £169, Cult Furniture

SOFA SAVIOUR No 124 cushion in teal, £55, Design Project range, John Lewis & Partners

CONTEMPORARY COOL Metal and velvet six hook coat rack, £32.39, Maisons du Monde

THE SHORTLIST

Velvet accents

LUXURIOUS LOUNGING Jaipur throw in magenta, £140, Christy range, Amara

FEBRUARY 2019

TO GIVE YOUR ROOM SOME OOH

TREAT YOUR FEET Sofia footstool in ochre velvet, £495, Soho Home

MAKE A STATEMENT Ero velvet tassel table lamp, £65, Oliver Bonas

CLASSIC DESIGN Whitney velvet armchair in blue, £249.99, Argos

FEATURE HOLLY WALSH

INVESTMENT PIECE Eleonora sapphire blue velvet chest of drawers, £1,150, Graham and Green

WHAT’S NEW

Ideal Vs Great Deal Nothing brings a room to life like a touch of polished copper, so take your pick from these modern-luxe lookalikes SMART TIMEPIECE Newgate Chrysler wall clock, £115, Black by Design

HIGH SHINE Stanley large pendant, £499, Original BTC

LEATHER LOOK T coated cushion cover copper, £26.46, Wayfair

MERCURY GLASS Braxton copper glass base table lamp, £79.99, Very

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

SLEEP SMART Alana double bed copper, £399, Made.com

BOUNCE LIGHT Alana round copper mirror, £119, Made.com

INDUSTRIAL CHIC Cavo stool, £159, Distinctify

TIMELESS DESIGN Newgate Master Edwards wall clock, £60, Amara

FACTORY FEEL Bilbao 1 pendant copper, £96, Dar Lighting

SOFT TOUCH Velvet cushion cover with piping, £19.99, Zara Home

MATT CONTRAST Sienna grey copper touch table lamp, £10, Homebase

MODERN SHAPE Strand metal bed frame in black/matt copper, £249, Bensons for Beds

SIMPLE STYLE Medium round mirror with copper frame, £33, Ian Snow RAW MATERIALS Hairpin metal bar stool, £69, Cult Furniture FEBRUARY 2019

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

SHIMMER AND SHINE Iridescent wine glasses, £29.99 for four, Ideal Home range, Very

BE-JEWEL A BEDROOM Alexa pendant, £49.99, Ideal Home range, Very

UPGRADE THE SOFA Florence matt satin cushion, £15, Ideal Home range, Very

THE SHORTLIST

Little treats

FOR LESS THAN

INJECT SOME GEO CHIC Aria table lamp, £26.99, Ideal Home range, Very

Glam up your space with buys from the Ideal Home range at Very.co.uk

BIJOU BEAUTY Glam side table, £49, Ideal Home range, Very

LAYER ON THE LUXE 100% Egyptian cotton Oxford pillowcases, £19 for two, Ideal Home range, Very

SMARTEN UP THE TABLE Matt gold cutlery, £29.99 for a 16-piece set, Ideal Home range, Very

A SUMPTUOUS CHOICE Super soft zero twist towels, from £8, Ideal Home range, Very

FEBRUARY 2019

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING

£50

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE Textured cotton duvet cover, from £69, Ideal Home range, Very

BEDROOM REFRESH

Global glamour

COLOUR PALETTE

FEATURE HOLLY WALSH

Ready to ring the changes? Update a neutral bedroom with super-chic lighting, touches of copper and tile-pattern accessories

5 6

1 Aztec tassel cushion, £17.99, Ideal Home range, Very 2 Hexagonal wall mirror, £99.99, Ideal Home range, Very 3 Folding side table in black/walnut, £39, Ideal Home range, Very 4 Scratch bronze vases, £32.99 for two, Ideal Home range, Very 5 Harmony double bed frame, £359, Ideal Home range, Very 6 Double tapered cone table lamp, £39.99, Ideal Home range, Very 7 Kamina flat weave rug, from £29.99, Ideal Home range, Very 8 Bailey pendant lightshade, £24.99, Ideal Home range, Very FEBRUARY 2019

Stylist’s Note ‘Pippa’s seating area has high ceilings and lots of windows, so the dark blue/green isn’t overwhelming’ Nicky Phillips, Decorating Editor

Love

PIPPA’S STYLE? Turn to page 31 to shop the look

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

‘We reinvented this house to suit us’ The Jamesons transformed a boxy, modern brick house, extended it and completely replanned the internal layout to create spaces that fit their family’s lifestyle

Open-plan space This seating area is part of a large living, dining and kitchen space. ‘Getting an open-plan layout to work can be tricky, but once I had the sofa facing the ﬁreplace and the rug down, it started to come together,’ says Pippa. BUY THE KEY PIECES S101 fire, £2,800, MorsǾ. Overdyed vintage rug, £350, Unique Rug Store

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

Welcome to my home their daughters, ElsieMay, 10, and Amber, eight.

THE PROPERTY

A four-bed detached modern home in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire.

THE VALUE Bought for Pippa Jameson, an interiors stylist (pippajamesoninteriors. co.uk) lives here with her husband Stuart Edwards who runs a digital marketing agency, and

P Take a quick tour... KITCHEN

DINING ROOM

LIVING ROOM

PLAY ROOM

PORCH

GROUND FLOOR

BEDROOM

BED ROOM DRESSING ROOM

BEDROOM

FIRST FLOOR

FEBRUARY 2019

£500,000 in September 2012. Now worth £1million.

“

It wasn’t our perfect home, but we knew we could make it really special

”

ippa Jameson and her husband Stuart were not the only ones to spot the potential of a neat, detached, red-brick house, tucked away in a quiet, no-through-road. ‘The location was brilliant, and there was space to extend at the side, and it had a gorgeous back garden,’ says Pippa. ‘Other buyers clearly thought the same, as it went to sealed bids, and amazingly, we got lucky.’ The house had been well maintained, so the family moved in straightaway. They lived with the dated kitchen and bathroom and wall-to-wall peach decor for five years, coming to understand how the family lived and moved around within it. ‘We learned that we love being together, so an open-plan layout would suit us,’ says Pippa. ‘We needed more living space and more natural light, as well as a fourth bedroom and en suite upstairs.’ To achieve this, the ground floor was extended and the kitchen, dining room and living room knocked into one space with big windows and skylights set into a high, vaulted ceiling. A second extension was built over the garage, which was also converted into a playroom. At the same time, the red-brick exterior was given a makeover with nearly black render. ‘It was important that the house worked for now, but could adapt as the girls grow up,’ says Pippa. ‘We turned the garage into a playroom, which is selfcontained so they can enjoy some independence, but later it’ll become a teen den where they can hang out with their friends. We also made sure that the new master suite is tucked away from their bedrooms and bathroom, so that everyone can have privacy when they’re older. We’re proud of the home we’ve created and it’s everything we hoped it would be.’

Dark green backdrop ‘I chose Farrow & Ball’s Inchyra Blue, which is a super-dark blue-green, in the seating area. It’s so rich and inviting, and we loved to see how our artwork pings out against it.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Artwork from a selection at Jameson Art Gallery. Vintage floor lamp, £700, 1st Dibs. Try Vinterior for a similar sideboard, from £450.

IDEAL HOME

loves

Vintage sideboards Can be picked up cheaply at auctions (Pippa got hers for £40) to give a corner characterful storage

REAL HOME

“

The space felt vast and overwhelming, but the key to making it work was creating ‘zones’ to make it feel calm and ordered

”

Stylist’s Note ‘A corner sofa is a great way to section oﬀ a seating area in an open-plan space’ Michela Colling, Style Editor

FEBRUARY 2019

Three zones in one ‘I used colour to distinguish the diﬀerent areas. I’ve gone for paler shades around the dining table and kitchen to boost light and give them a more functional, active feel.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES The Dallas sofa, £999, Made.com is similar. Cushions, from Ferm Living and H&M Home. Cineline dining table, £4,000, Ligne Roset

FEBRUARY 2019

Stylist’s Note ‘Pippa’s kitchen blends into her big, open-plan space thanks to its paredback style and colour’ Ruth Corbett, Houses Editor

Clutter-free kitchen ‘In an open-plan layout, you have to think about what can be seen from elsewhere in the space, so we planned the kitchen with that in mind. As we cook a lot, I factored in plenty of storage for equipment and ingredients,’ says Pippa. BUY THE KEY PIECES Roma units, complete kitchens from £7,500, Masterclass Kitchens. CRL quartz worktops, from £250sq m, Rock and Co. KCV9BE cooker hood, £1,130, Smeg

Light, bright hallway ‘I designed the kitchen so that when we’re relaxing or at the table, we’re looking at lovely display shelves’

FEBRUARY 2019

A porch was built onto the front of the house and the old front door was replaced with glass panels that let light ﬂow into the hallway. BUY THE KEY PIECES Majestic Woodland oak light grey laminate flooring, £36.49sq m, Quick-Step. Amesbury console, £109.99, Wayfair. Polished Pebble emulsion, £16 for 2.5L, Dulux

REAL HOME Chunky shelves in unfinished wood add warm colour to the cool, grey kitchen

A cluster of succulents add soft, fresh colour to the space

“

Waiting such a long time before we started extending the house paid off. We were able to think it through carefully and we got the layout right

”

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME Stylist’s Note ‘Pippa’s pale grey walls and carpet mean she can change her feature wall to almost any colour’ Nicky Phillips, Decorating Editor

‘We use the Shaker-style pegs in the vanity area all the time’

Calm colour mix for a sleep space ‘The wall of deep, dark green makes the area around the bed feel restful and calm, but it doesn’t overwhelm the wall. We used a pale grey on the other walls which feels more

energising and frames the green view from the window.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Studio Green modern emulsion, £45 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball. Reclaimed scaffold plank desk, £120, eBay

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

“

Don’t be afraid of dark colour! We nearly kept the open-plan space all white, it was so clean, bright and airy, but as soon as the green went on in the seating area, it made the whole space seem more manageable

FEBRUARY 2019

”

Shelves made from old scaffolding planks add raw texture to the bathroom

Upcycled vanity unit ‘It would have been easier to buy a new washstand, but I like having something unconventional,’ says Pippa. ‘This was an old gin cabinet I found in a charity shop and painted.’

FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY, VANESSA RICHMOND PHOTOGRAPHS AND STYLING COLIN POOLE PLANS AGENCY SERVICE

BUY THE KEY PIECES Seto countertop basins, £69.97 each, Bathroom Takeaway. Flat matt white wall tiles, £38.30sq m; Wicker Charcoal floor tiles, £34sq m, both British Ceramic Tile

Monochrome and green scheme ‘I wanted the same look and feel to run through the whole house, so it all seems connected,’ says Pippa. ‘The bathroom’s painted in the same green as our bedroom and I’ve used similar ﬂoor tiles in the hallway.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Yang freestanding bath, £469.97; Nairn freestanding mixer tap, £149.97, both Bathroom Takeaway

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

Make it work for you PIPPA’S STYLE: ECLECTIC CONTEMPORARY Combining streamlined furniture and lighting with quirky artwork and touches of pattern makes for a creative mix

FAUX FABULOUS Faux potted Boston fern, £31.50, Audenza

GREEN GODDESS Ellison diamond hatch occasional chair, £804, Artisanti

GREAT DEAL

IDEAL

ABSTRACT DESIGN Misty Waters framed print, £110, Natasha Barnes range, John Lewis & Partners

LIGHT WORK RV Astley Aklam table lamp in black, £132, Houseology

LEAFY GREEN Palm leaves cushion, £31.95, Hurn & Hurn

FEATURE HOLLY WALSH

FEELING SHEEPISH Carys stool in ivory, £215, Baa Stool FLOOR FILLER Vintage rug, £520, Houseology

COLOUR RIOT Abstract 222 framed print, from £18, Abstract House

FAKE IT Faux fern house plant, £8, Argos

SITTING PRETTY Dark green velvet chair, £179.99, HomeSense

SHINE ON Galatea black table light, £54.99, My Furniture

JUNGLE FEVER Botanical jungle cushion, £13, Albert & Moo

FLUFFY FRIEND Vilma stool in white faux fur, £69.74, Maisons du Monde GET GROUNDED Modern persian faded rug, £80, River Island

FEBRUARY 2019

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IN MY EXPERIENCE

‘I swapped house with my parents – twice’ After Sophie Sear’s family more than doubled in size, she engineered a house-swap with her parents who were considering downsizing – but things didn’t quite turn out as expected…

After the first move, Harvey joined the brood

ophie Sear, 50, shares her three-bedroom, 19th-century cottage in Downe, near Bromley, London, with her husband Mark, 57, and sons Adam, 20, and Oliver, 13. Eldest son Daniel, 22, is at university. When it felt like they were outgrowing their home in 2006, the family swapped houses with Sophie’s parents, Nina and Vinnie, moving into their much larger, semi-detached, Thirties house a few miles away in Hayes. ‘It was my idea to swap houses. Mark and I married in 2005, and our son Oliver was born shortly afterwards. Mark’s two children from his previous marriage, James and Emily, were in their early teens and stayed with us every other weekend. In a relatively short space of time, I’d gone from being a single parent with two sons to a family of five, sometimes seven! And, as much as I still loved the cottage, it just wasn’t big enough for our needs. ‘Meanwhile, Mum and Dad were toying with the idea of downsizing and selling the suburban house I’d grown up in. It occurred to me that their home had everything we needed. Like our cottage, it has three bedrooms and two reception rooms – but they’re much larger, so everyone could have their own space. We could fit a sofa bed in the dining room to turn it into a guest room when necessary, for example. In contrast to our tiny garden, Mum and Dad had a huge, kid-friendly one, as well as a garage and parking spaces. And, although Hayes is only a 15-minute drive from our village, it’s much better connected with shops and travel links. Mark could easily commute into London

Nina and Vinnie’s three-bed semi in Hayes, Bromley

for work, and Daniel and Adam would be able to walk to school. ‘Mum saw the logic in the idea straightaway, but Dad took some persuading. In fact, he almost changed his mind after everything was sorted. I’m an only child, and I have no doubt that the main reason they agreed was out of love for us and the kids. But they loved the cottage, and it made sense for them to trial living somewhere smaller before selling up. We also agreed that if they did decide to sell, Mark and I would have first refusal on the house. It was a “try before you buy” idea. ‘We made the move just before Christmas 2006. We hired a van, and tried to keep things as simple as possible. Mark and I had the same bed as Mum and Dad, for instance, so we only swapped mattresses and linen – but we did take our own dining furniture and appliances with us. At first, we kept the decor the same, but

Sophie’s cottage in nearby Downe, Kent

Nina and Vinnie had considered downsizing

FEBRUARY 2019

IN MY EXPERIENCE

Sophie’s mum, Nina, swapped her lovely garden for a paved plot

the needs of a retired couple are very different from those of a growing family. It soon became clear that certain things needed to change. ‘We replaced the dark brown carpet, which had been in the living rooms and hallway since the Eighties, with laminate flooring. Mark and I both have demanding jobs – I’m a primary school head teacher and he’s a project manager – so neither of us had time to vacuum every day! And with three boys running around, the old stair carpet became ripped and loose, so I eventually pulled it up. ‘Dad was never impressed with the changes we made. When I redecorated the dining room, I chose a statement silver-patterned wallpaper. He said he preferred the magnolia woodchip that was there before. We also had a new bathroom installed and I chose sand-coloured tiles and a contemporary shower and bath – not what my parents would have chosen,

“

within six weeks. Now in his eighties, he wanted to be nearer the shops and services again before the coming winter. There’s only one bus an hour out of the village, so it can feel remote, and because the cottage is wooden, it’s less energy-efficient and trickier to heat. It just wasn’t the right place for them to live any more. Of course, I understood, but I also felt devastated. Leaving Hayes, where we’d built so many happy memories – it felt like a relationship break-up. Then, life threw us another curveball when Mark’s company announced they were closing its London office and he’d have to start working from home full-time. We also now had two very lively dogs! ‘We initially moved back to Downe thinking it would be a temporary measure until we bought somewhere more suitable. What I hadn’t banked on, though, is that I’d fall in love with the house all over again – and, thankfully, Mark did, too. So despite the fact that it’s too small, we’ve made it work for us. Daniel’s now studying for a doctorate at university, but when he comes home for the holidays, he sleeps on a pull-out bed in Adam’s room. James and Emily are both in their twenties and have their own homes. The dining room doubles as Mark’s office. We had to sacrifice a sofa so he could shut the door and fit a desk in there, but I drew the line at filing cabinets! It works well, although it can get a bit chaotic during the school holidays when we’re crammed into the living room. ‘We’ve done quite a bit to the house in the three years since we moved back. We’ve fitted a new kitchen, redecorated downstairs, had the garden redesigned and even bought a new front door. We’ll start on upstairs next – as soon as we find the time. I suppose we could afford to buy somewhere bigger, but we don’t feel the need any more. This is where we’re meant to be. Mum and Dad are staying put in Hayes, and haven’t changed a thing since they moved back. It would be a lot of expense and effort for them, but I also suspect Dad’s secretly grown to like that statement wallpaper!’

When I redecorated the dining room, I chose a statement wallpaper. Dad said he preferred the magnolia woodchip that was there before

Vinnie wasn’t that keen on Sophie’s choice of decor

FEBRUARY 2019

”

FEATURE JANE MURPHY

At the cottage, flowerpots replaced flower beds

but I was focusing on building a family home for the future, thinking we’d eventually buy the house. ‘For the first few years, Mum and Dad enjoyed life in our cottage, and made friends in the village. They didn’t really change or update anything, which meant some of the decor began to look tired and worn, which upset me a little when I popped round. I was particularly worried about the amount of books Dad had upstairs – scared that the dining room ceiling would collapse! And I also felt guilty because Mum, who’d always been a keen gardener, was now trying to grow all her veg in pots on the patio – while her old vegetable patch and flower beds in Hayes were looking rather neglected. ‘After nearly nine years, Dad suddenly announced he wanted to move back to their old house –

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THE NEW WAY TO DO

Modern country A blend of honest materials and handcrafted pieces with smart painted navy and charcoal finishes creates laid-back luxury

Use fabrics in deeper colours With deep blue and charcoal creating a strong visual statement, keep the rest of the room simple by layering cushions, rugs and curtains in tactile and woven fabrics to provide pattern. WHERE TO BUY Tortona chaise sofa, £2,799; alpaca throw, £195; Burdock lamp, £120, all John Lewis & Partners

FEBRUARY 2019

STYLE & DECOR HOMESPUN CRAFTS Rattan storage baskets are everywhere, but artisan techniques such as felting are emerging. Southwold bowls, £25 for set of two, Garden Trading

Show your metal Metallic legs bring a modern update to painted furniture. A white powdercoated frame is a softer blend with a pale wood top. WHERE TO BUY Trafalgar dining table, £1,690; bench, £330; both Rust Collections

STYLIST’S NOTE

“

Mix country materials white marble, leather and linen – with modern finishes like terrazzo and concrete

MICHELA COLLING, STYLE EDITOR

”

ADD ARTISAN CERAMICS Go for glazed stoneware ceramics in earthy tones. Emiko large tray, £75; stoneware crockery, from £10 for a cereal bowl, all Murmur

GLASS GLOW Seeded wood tea light holder, £9.50, Marks & Spencer

SUBTLE PRINT Chalk linen cotton blend bedlinen, from £22 for a standard Oxford pillowcase, Soak & Sleep

RUSTIC REFINED Vara small lamp and shade, £150, Also Home

KITCHEN UPDATE Drury Lane cafetière, £18, Sainsbury’s Home

FEBRUARY 2019

ADD BLACK ACCENTS The classic carver chair and table trestles have been given an upgrade with a matt black and charcoal finish.

Choose checks and stripes Pile on timeless checks and stripes in brushed cotton and jersey. Subtle pattern in tonal greys and soft fabrics creates a cosy hideaway. WHERE TO BUY Check bedspread, £69; Ridley bed set, £29.50; striped jersey bed set, £39.50, all Marks & Spencer

Workshop desk, £550; carver chair, £195; Bermondsey lamp, £100; Farringdon file storage, £40; Soho pendant, £30, all Garden Trading

STYLIST’S NOTE

“

Trade in the traditional country tones of cream, duck-egg blue and apple green for dark navy, charcoal, fresh white and blush tints

MICHELA COLLING, STYLE EDITOR

”

NATURAL SELECTION Kelston peg rail, £30, Garden Trading

GORGEOUS GLAZE Reactive vase, £7, Next Home FINE FRAMEWORK Hoxton cuddler, £749, DFS

FEBRUARY 2019

STYLE & DECOR

OVERSIZED STITCH Chunky handknit throw, £65, Soak & Sleep

MATERIAL MIX Lilleby coffee table, £299, Swoon

ENAMEL UPDATE Gold flecked enamel bowl, £25, French Connection Home

Update with modern pattern Pick key accent cushions featuring oversized, painterly designs, rather than small or busy prints. WHERE TO BUY Iona weave cushion, £40; Mini weave cushion, £30; Lyle cushion, £40; Lorn bench, £550, all Croft collection, John Lewis & Partners

Add a greypainted piece This traditional farmhouse style provides comfort while the blue-grey paint gives it a fresh look for a light, neutral space. WHERE TO BUY Banbury grey six-drawer chest, £699, The Cotswold Company

STYLE & DECOR PUT PATTERN ON THE FLOOR Swap stone or tiles for a modern geo floor – a soft matt effect or cement won’t jar in a rustic space.

Choose raw, grainy wood Embrace the natural beauty of wood by choosing pieces of furniture with exposed knots and lines. Layer on crumpled linen and a waffle throw to finish the laid-back look. WHERE TO BUY Chamonix bed, £1,095, Rust Collections

Samantha tiles, £32.85sq m, British Ceramic Tile

STYLIST’S NOTE

“

Craving pattern? Mix in modern, large-scale painterly florals or abstract prints in washed pastels, fine stripes or block-printed geometrics

”

REACTIVE GLAZE Maja mugs, £35 for six, Cox & Cox

GIVE WAY TO GLAMOUR A pastel palette and sleek tables mixed with an elegant sofa add a luxe contrast to a rustic interior.

Bumpster sofa in Rose Quartz velvet, £1,945, Loaf

INDUSTRIAL TWIST Zinc stool, £145, French Connection Home

RAW MATERIALS Terrazzo cheese board, £18, French Connection Home

FEBRUARY 2019

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING

MICHELA COLLING, STYLE EDITOR

‘This old French house needed love’ Angele Vuillet and Patrice Coeytaux renovated an abandoned French property from top to bottom, injecting a modern, rustic vibe

The end result ‘It was in such a sad state when we found it,’ says Angele, ‘with no electricity or heating, a collapsing roof and rattling windows. We put our hearts and souls into the project, taking inspiration from the past and preserving its original features where we could.’

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

FEBRUARY 2019

Welcome to my home THE PROPERTY

A four-bedroom detached house in Lovagny, near Annecy, France. To find out more about staying at the house visit entrelesmurs.com.

Angele Vuillet, an architect and interior designer, lives here with her partner and business associate, Patrice Coeytaux, also an architect.

Take a quick tour...

LIVING ROOM

OFFICE

KITCHEN

GROUND FLOOR

BEDROOM

FIRST FLOOR

FEBRUARY 2019

“

It was important to us that the house felt cosy and relaxed, so guests would feel at home here. I think we’ve pulled it off!

”

et in the dip of a valley, barely visible to passersby and with just the sound of birds singing and a river flowing below, it’s easy to see why Angele and her partner Patrice fell for this house near Annecy in France. But its idyllic location and size were pretty much the only things the property had going for it. Its dilapidated condition would have sent most people running, but it was exactly the challenge Angele wanted. The house dates back to 1894 and is typical of many properties in the region, with a stucco exterior, tiled roof and shuttered windows. ‘You can still see a faint inscription “café - restaurant - lunches - dinners” on the facade,’ says Angele. Which is apt as the couple’s plan was to turn the property into a bed and breakfast. ‘We’ve taken inspiration from its past life,’ says Angele. After replacing the windows, fixing the roof and installing electricity, heating and insulation, the couple set to work on the interior. ‘The ground floor had lots of small rooms with little natural light, so the interior walls were taken down to open up the space, creating one large kitchen, dining and living area. It’s now flooded with light and feels much more spacious,’ says Angele. Upstairs, they created three guest bedroom suites as well as their own bedroom and en-suite bathroom. Wooden floorboards have been painted white to give the upstairs layout a sense of flow, with tiling in the en suites. Angele has opted for a neutral backdrop of off-white walls, washed wooden floorboards and undressed windows, adding colour with furniture and furnishings. A mix of retro, industrial and rustic country pieces, from mid-century finds sourced online to salvaged furniture revamped with paint, all sit comfortably together. ‘I like to follow trends, but I’m not particularly adventurous nor avant-garde,’ she says. ‘My natural style seems to be more low key and timeless.’

REAL HOME

IDEAL HOME

loves

Traditional peg rails So useful for stylishly corralling clothes, bags, umbrellas, baskets full of gloves, dog leads…

Hallway ‘The layout of the hallway is the only thing not to have changed in the house, although it’s been redecorated,’ says Angele. ‘The sideboard was already here, we repainted it and swapped the handles.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES For similar, try the Chichester sideboard, £1,340, Neptune

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

COMPACT BURNER Slots neatly into the corner of the room

Love

ANGELE’S STYLE? Turn to page 55 to shop the look

Living room This room showcases Angele’s style, which is a blend of vintage and new, raw rustic and polished mid-century pieces. ‘I’ve taken a mix-and-match approach in all the rooms as I’m not keen on an overly co-ordinated look,’ she says. BUY THE KEY PIECES For similar rug, try the Massa, £349, Swoon. The Morten three-seater sofa, £1,199, Heal’s is similar

Hallway Angele chose encaustic ﬂoor tiles and a vintage coat rack to echo the house’s original period details, but mixed in modern touches, like the ombré-painted iconic Ercol bench. The traditional dark-wood stairs were painted white to keep the hall bright and fresh

FEBRUARY 2019

BUY THE KEY PIECES The Victorian Centro Viena decor tiles, £23.99sq m, Tile Mountain are similar. Ercol Originals ombré love seat, £900, Heal’s

“

I love to see how treasured things from different places can resonate together

”

Living room Vintage lacquered shelving is used to display favourite objects. ‘It’s important to surround yourself with things that have emotional value, evoke good memories or make you feel happy,’ says Angele. BUY THE KEY PIECES String wall shelf, £122, Scandinavian Design Centre is similar

FEBRUARY 2019

CROCHET PENDANT Prettifies a functional workspace

Home office An old, repainted dining table gives the couple’s shared oﬃce a friendlier feel than desks, and mismatched chairs boost the informal eﬀect. BUY THE KEY PIECES For similar lampshade, try the large crochet shade, £19.99, Julsparadise at Etsy. For similar metal chair, try the pink Tolix chair, £169.56, Sklum

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

FISH-SCALE SHAPE TILES Makes white tiling more interesting

Kitchen-diner The kitchen is in the same, openplan space as the living area, at the opposite end, with the dining table forming a visual divide. The units were made to measure to ﬁt the space, with simple grey lacquered doors and a white Corian worktop.

A utility-style wall lamp casts task light onto the sink

BUY THE KEY PIECES Syren natural linen tiles, £80.91sq m, Topps Tiles are similar. Smeg FAB30RF fridge freezer, £1,399, John Lewis & Partners

Dining area ‘I wanted to create a quirky look with the mix of opaline pendant lights above the dining table,’ says Angele. ‘Guests love to sit under them! I vary the light sources in each room to create a warm atmosphere.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES The Old School opal glass light, £120, Trouva is similar. For similar dining table, try the Drio, £750, Habitat FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

HANGING RAIL Doesn’t cramp a small bedroom like a closed wardrobe does

A vintage map adds some character and gentle colour

Main bedroom This room is a mixture of simplicity and glamour. Unfussy furniture, painted ﬂoorboards and naturally crumpled bed linens give it a relaxed, modern-country feel, while mid-century side tables and lowhanging brass pendants add a touch of boutique-hotel chic. BUY THE KEY PIECES Collect pendant light, £134, Ferm Living at Nest. The Rebecca oak clothes rack, £450, Perch & Parrow is similar

En-suite bathroom The unusual washbasin stand is inspired by the classic Eames DSW ‘Eiﬀel’ chair with its tapered wooden legs and steel framework. BUY THE KEY PIECES Ray wash stand, from €1,494, Ex.T. The Alana copper mirrors, £119 each, Made.com are similar

FEBRUARY 2019

Guest bedroom Each bedroom is white with diﬀerent colour accents and quirky wall art behind the bed. A group of sunburst mirrors make a feature here. BUY THE KEY PIECES The Nogu sunburst mirror, £52, La Redoute is similar. The All Things Furniture Co sells similar lattice headboards, £119

“

I like clean spaces brought to life with lovely fabrics, interesting wall art and decorative tiles

”

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

PAINTED BAND Gives a white room subtle warmth and interest

Guest bedroom

Vintage kids’ furniture looks cute and can take hard knocks

The plain walls and ﬂoor lets Angele showcase unusual pieces of furniture like the bamboo cabinet and looped cane headboard without overdoing it in this small room. BUY THE KEY PIECES The Colette rattan headboard, £115, Tikamoon is similar. For a similar wall hanging, try the Navanita macrame wall hanging, £65, La Redoute. The knitted stool, £555, Clippings is similar

Guest bunkroom The children’s room leads oﬀ the main bedroom through an arch, with concealed sliding doors that pull across to separate the spaces. Colourful accessories brighten the children’s room

FEBRUARY 2019

BUY THE KEY PIECES The Oliver Furniture bunk bed, £1,680, Cuckooland is similar. For a similar side table, try the Polar bear, £105.99, Wayfair.

FEATURE ANNE CATHERINE SCOFFONI, LISA FAZZANI, VANESSA RICHMOND PHOTOGRAPHS ANNE CATHERINE SCOFFONI PLANS AGENCY SERVICE

Wire pendants add style to the enclosed verandah seating area

Exterior The couple restored the property’s original wooden shutters. Outside, an old wooden chest has been repurposed as a surface for potting and displaying plants. BUY THE KEY PIECES For similar shutter colour, try Garden Shades in Sage, £26.45 for 2.5L, Cuprinol

Outdoor living room The covered verandah extends their living space, with this comfortable sitting and dining area. ‘It’s a house where you can live in and out when the warm weather arrives,’ says Angele. BUY THE KEY PIECES Cuzco outdoor sofa, £419, Maisons du Monde. For similar outdoor rug, try the Pat11 patio rug, from £29, Modern Rugs

One of the pretty foot bridges in Annecy’s old town

Lake Annecy is Europe’s cleanest lake

Love the location ANNECY, AUVERGNERHÔNE-ALPES, FRANCE The Vuillets’ place is near Annecy in south-east France, with its beautiful lake and Alpine views on the doorstep

Nestled between lake and mountains

WHERE TO STAY Entre Les Murs (entrelesmurs.com), the Vuillet’s B&B, €80 a night per room or Le Boutik Hotel (leboutikhotel.com), from €87 a night per room

FEBRUARY 2019

The lake is the perfect spot for water sports

PHOTOGRAPHS ALAMY

HOW TO GET THERE Fly to Geneva with EasyJet or BA from £40, from many UK cities. Or take the scenic route by train to Annecy, via Paris and Lyon, from £62 with loco2.com. THE LOCAL AREA Between lake and mountains, the sunny eastern shores are most popular. You could buy a studio for £160,000, a one-bed flat for £350,000, or pay £950,000+ for a lakeside family house. WHAT TO SEE & DO It’s very outdoorsy, with rock climbing, paragliding and boating aplenty. You can ski in the winter, swim in the lake all summer and everyone cycles.

REAL HOME

Make it work for you ANGELE’S STYLE: RELAXED MID-CENTURY Mixing retro with rustic creates an easy-going style

GREAT DEAL

IDEAL

VINTAGE DESIGN Framed Small Parrots print, 40x30cm, £49, Graham and Green

NATURE STUDY Plakat Vogel framed poster, from £14.95, Juniqe

SIXTIES CLASSIC Santa & Cole Cestita table light, £288, Rume

THE RIGHT ANGLES Lucas armchair, £699, West Elm

IN THE FRAME Poise table light, £129, Dwell

LUXE LAYERING Olive velvet cushion, £50, Cox & Cox

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING

GLAM EDGE Brass vase, £25, John Lewis & Partners

TACTILE FINISH Olive linen cushion, £35, Trouva

CURVE APPEAL Leola armchair, £449, Swoon

SHINING ACCENT Stoneware gold glazed vase, £14, Att Pynta

ABSTRACT PATTERN Padma Berber style rug, £199, 120x180cm, La Redoute

SOFTEN THE SPACE Noble Aztec rug, £84.99, 120x170cm, Carpetright

MINIMALIST MIX Wayampi TV cabinet, £574, Maisons du Monde

SIMPLE AND SLEEK Luther large media unit, £349, Made.com FEBRUARY 2019

" ""

STYLE & DECOR

Pure & simple Take your home back to basics with soft white schemes that set the mood for calm and considered living

Peat stoneware mug, £58 for two; mini taper candles, £9 for 10, both Rowen & Wren. Lille vase, £75; white feather kai, £65; Unna vase, £12, all Design Vintage. Velvet ribbon spool, £18.95, Pale & Interesting.

FEBRUARY 2019

STYLE & DECOR THIS PAGE Kerala chest of drawers, £615; concrete lamp, £79, both Barker & Stonehouse. Nordic Sand bowl, £11, Raft. Riviera pitcher, £48, So Just Shop. Cherry blossom plaster cast, £120; vintage-style preserving jar, £12.50; notebook, £34.95; velvet ribbon spool, £18.95, all Pale & Interesting.

PLASTER RELIEF Subtle, textural and colour free to blend in easily

Wow moment Making a statement doesn’t have to mean shouty colour, ornate pieces or fierce shapes. The interesting finish and details on this simple piece are enough to make it a focal-point hero

FEBRUARY 2019

Stylist’s Note A mixed palette of whites, greys, creams and taupes can look bland, so add touches of black here and there, along with natural colour from fresh or fake foliage

“

NICKY PHILLIPS, DECORATING EDITOR

”

THIS PAGE Walls painted in Stone I pure flat emulsion, £48.50 for 2.5L, Paint and Paper Library. Snowdrop armchair in Seashell basket weave, £690, Sofa.com. Adya footstool, £130, Lombok. Balance coffee table, £299, Content by Terrence Conran at John Lewis. Braid rug, £450, Habitat. ON CONSOLE Stone etched lamp, £120, Barker & Stonehouse. Floral framed artwork, £30, Design Vintage. Oak-framed Yarrow print, £69, One Must Dash at Notonthehighstreet. com. ON MANTEL Apothecary jar, £23.95, Pale & Interesting. Fennel bowl, £16.50; pom-pom lace spool, £8 for 10m; mirror, £220, all Petersham Nurseries. ON CHAIR Andas throw, £98, Also Home. Yeti rug in ivory, £90, Celtic & Co. Linen cushion, £55, Pale & Interesting ON FOOTSTOOL Canvas journal, £26.95, Pale & Interesting. Nordic plate, £10, Raft. Chestnut mug, £30, Barton Croft. ON SIDE TABLE Provencal pot, £29.95, Pale & Interesting. Bowl, £16.50, Petersham Nurseries.

FEBRUARY 2019

THIS PAGE Izzy sofa in Canvas pure Belgian linen, £1,940, Sofa.com. Kalmar woven cushion, £79; Andas cushion, £35, both Also Home. Raw antique linen cushion, £55, Pale & Interesting. Chunky cable throw, £450, Celtic & Co. Kerala coffee table, £219, Barker & Stonehouse. ON COFFEE TABLE Glass jar, £35, Petersham Nurseries. Nordic Sand salad bowl, £62, Raft.

Stylist’s Note The key to a smart but relaxed look is structure – with a simple, square sofa, you can freely mix accessories in lots of shapes and finishes

“

NICKY PHILLIPS, DECORATING EDITOR

”

STYLE & DECOR

Layered look

FEATURE SARITA SHARMA, VANESSA RICHMOND STYLING SARITA SHARMA PHOTOGRAPHS DOMINIC BLACKMORE

Stick to natural textures – cosy sheepskin, wool and linen rugs, cushions and throws – in a range of warm neutrals, mixing plains, checks and stripes

DISTRESSED WOOD Its imperfection adds rustic character THIS PAGE Simple mango stool, £135, Design Vintage. Yeti rug in ivory, £90; pure wool undyed herringbone throw, £125, both Celtic & Co. Taylor throw, £60, Habitat. Bowl, £16.50; pom-pom lace spool, £8 for 10m, Petersham Nurseries. Braid rug, £450, Habitat.

FEBRUARY 2019

THE BIG QUESTION

Are books, CDs and DVDs just clutter? Are you clinging on to all those favourite ﬁlms and precious paperbacks, or have you embraced digital and reclaimed all that shelf space?

Yes

FEATURE JANE MURPHY PHOTOGRAPH ALAMY

“

No “

There’s something very freeing about having a clear, clutter-free space

It's important to ﬁll your home with things that inspire you

Noel Mellor, 41, lives with his wife Claire and their two children, Charlie, five and Rosa, one, in a Sixties semi in Marple, Greater Manchester. He is head of content at Manchester Metropolitan University and a massive film buff. ‘I’ve always been obsessed with film and have even written a book about the Eighties home video explosion. So it probably comes as a surprise to some that I don’t have a single DVD or video at home. The thing is, why would I? Nowadays, I don’t have to physically own a film to be able to watch it – I can just download or stream it. I’m the same with books – I’m an avid reader, but I use a tablet or e-reader. When I was writing my book, I amassed hundreds of old VHS tapes as part of my research. And, as soon as I’d finished, I took great pleasure in getting rid of them all. Doing that frees the mind, because living with clutter just weighs you down. Meanwhile, Claire’s books are taking over the house. I think she lives under the illusion that she’s going to have time to sit down and read them all. But the truth is, she’s far too busy, so they just sit there, gathering dust. I’ve also learnt that the more stuff you have on shelves, the more the kids can get hold of to chuck around! I’ve managed to lay claim to some wall space, though, where I’ve put up a couple of favourite film posters. Having a movie print on the wall expresses my personality and passions in a far more effective – and tidier – way than shelves full of DVDs. It feels more personal and curated.’

Claire Mellor, 33, is Noel's wife. She works in marketing and admits that shelf space is at a premium in their busy family home. ‘I do admit that I buy far more books than I have time to read. But that’s not the only reason I buy them. I like having them around to inspire me, and being able to dip in and out of them. I also love the look, feel and design of books. Some of them are absolutely beautiful, so they add to the decor and atmosphere of our home. Our bookcases are full to bursting, and I’m having to get a bit creative in the way I display them – although I still think they look fairly tidy. I’ve also got an ‘in progress’ pile of books next to the bed, which drives Noel mad. I did try an e-reader once, but hated it. I’m much happier carrying a hardback around. After all, we spend enough time staring at screens. I think it’s healthy for the kids to be surrounded by books. I’ve got a lot of cookbooks and Charlie loves looking through them and pointing at the pictures he likes. So it’s helping him to learn about food, too. I really enjoy having a nose through other people’s books, music and DVDs when I go to their homes. It’s a great conversation-starter and helps you get to know one another better. I have to be honest: if I went to someone’s house and they didn’t have any bookshelves, just minimalist decor, I’d think they must be really boring.’

”

“

I love the look, feel and design of books. Some of them are absolutely beautiful. I think they add to the decor and atmosphere

”

FEBRUARY 2019

‘We let this house’s style speak for itself’ Blown away by its natural assets, Gemma and James Bates did up their Victorian townhouse with a careful touch, while letting their own style shine

Love GEMMA’S STYLE?

Turn to page 75 to shop the look

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

Living room ‘I wanted this to be a space to relax and unwind in, but I also wanted it to feel special,’ says Gemma. ‘We struck that balance with muted colours and sophisticated furniture. We recently reworked the scheme by using accent hues from the artwork over the sofa.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Mireia Izquierdo painting, £350, Artfinder. Ashingdon sofa, from £1,039, Marks & Spencer, is similar

TOUCH OF BRASS Gives a simple, neutral colour scheme polish

FEBRUARY 2019

Welcome to my home THE PROPERTY

A five-bedroom, semi-detached Victorian townhouse in Nottingham.

THE VALUE Bought

in 2014 for £380,000. Now worth £500,000.

Gemma Bates, a stayat-home mum, lives here with her husband James, an osteopath, and their three-yearold daughter, Millie.

Take a quick tour... UTILITY

KITCHEN

LIVING ROOM

PLAYROOM

GROUND FLOOR BEDROOM

BEDROOM

FIRST FLOOR BEDROOM

DRESSING ROOM

BEDROOM

SECOND FLOOR

FEBRUARY 2019

“

With its space, high ceilings and elegant features, we simply fell in love with this property

”

emma and James Bates bought their ‘forever’ home four years ago, in a conservation area a stone’s throw from the centre of Nottingham. Keen to start a family and aware they would soon outgrow their existing home, they had started looking locally. When they found this house they couldn’t believe their luck. ‘Structurally, no work was needed and it had lots of original features,’ says Gemma. The house had been rented as a shared house, but hadn’t been divided into flats, so it had retained its original layout, and had been neutrally decorated and carpeted throughout. ‘It’s handy to start with a blank canvas,’ says Gemma. ‘But it’s surprising how intimidating a sea of magnolia can be. I was so in awe of the property and its potential, that I made some really safe and uninteresting decorating choices in the beginning. Over time, though, I’ve gained confidence and my style has naturally evolved. The house itself, its age and character, and my wanting to be sympathetic to its style, have all hugely influenced my decisions. I’ve kept the palette simple and classic, but have introduced modern patterns and textures.’ Soon after moving in, the couple redesigned the kitchen. ‘It’s the most important room in the house. It’s our hub, the centre of activity, especially since we had Millie,’ says Gemma. ‘It was a real learning curve refurbishing it. Compromise is the key to developing a space that ticks all the boxes. We wanted to maximise practicality while keeping a strong aesthetic. It’s now a place we love to spend time in. It’s so bright and spacious, we’re never in a hurry to leave it! My home is my pride and joy. I get such satisfaction from creating spaces I find beautiful, interesting and comfortable.’

REAL HOME

Living room ‘I’ve tried to embrace the age and character of our period home by keeping the tone simple, to allow the beauty of the house to speak for itself, while making a statement with art and patterned wallpaper. BUY THE KEY PIECES Parterre wallpaper, £85 a roll, Cole & Son. Josephine mirror, £320, Brissi. Prints, from £2.95 each, Desenio

ORNATE MIRROR In plain white, it doesn’t look over the top

FEBRUARY 2019

Kitchen-diner The original kitchen had terracotta ﬂoor tiles and shabby wooden cabinets. ‘The transformation has been huge!’ says Gemma. ‘It’s had the biggest impact for us. With a white ﬂoor, walls and units, it’s a really bright and open space now. It’s light even on the gloomiest of days.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Maywell kitchen, £10,000, Kesseler. Classic deluxe dual fuel range, £1,800, Rangemaster

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

WORKTOP OVERHANG Turns an island into a breakfast bar

“

The island is so important. We bought comfy bar stools and everything is in easy reach. It’s a great place to hang out

”

FEBRUARY 2019

Landing ‘I love the impact and height this wallpaper creates,’ says Gemma. ‘It can be totally liberating to step out of your comfort zone and take a risk!’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Octagon contemporary geometric wallpaper, £28 a roll, Your 4 Walls. Float magazine rack, £50, J-me. For a similar display cabinet, try the Provence bookcase, £739, Swagger

IDEAL HOME

loves

Tile patterns One of the few patterns that never dates. Stick to monochrome and you can switch accent colours over time

REAL HOME

Guest bedroom ‘I love a black and white scheme in a bedroom as it reminds me of elegant Parisian hotels. So I was keen to incorporate this look into this room, adding gold accents,’ says Gemma. BUY THE KEY PIECES Wall painted in Penny Black, £20 for 2.5L, Crown. Blind made in St James Stripe, £37.38m, Clarke & Clarke

HANDY HATSTAND Useful for clothes when there’s no room for a wardrobe

FEBRUARY 2019

WHITE PICTURE RAIL Adds a fresh accent to dark grey walls

Main bedroom ‘I wanted to be quite bold with the colours in the main bedroom,’ says Gemma. ‘And the size and proportions of the room really celebrate it.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Walls painted in City Life matt emulsion, £20 for 2.5L, Crown. Jayne metal bed frame, £299, John Lewis & Partners

Millie’s bedroom ‘I love the simplicity of Millie’s room,’ says Gemma. ‘We decided to go for a wallpaper that’s not trend-based. Because it’s white with a pretty motif, it has a classic look that Millie will still like as she gets older.’

BUY THE KEY PIECES Portraits wallpaper, £60 a roll, Hibou Home at Notonthehighstreet.com. White clothes rail, £39, JoJo Maman Bébé. Sweetheart dressing up rail, £100, Great Little Trading Co, is similar. Adum rug in light brownpink, from £40, Ikea, is a match

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

“

Try wallpaper and you’ll never look back! All of my wallpaper choices have had a real impact on how I feel about a space. And it’s so easy to draw on colours in the pattern when choosing accessories for the room

”

FEATURE MARISHA TAYLOR, VANESSA RICHMOND STYLING MARISHA TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHS JAMES FRENCH PLANS AGENCY SERVICE

REAL HOME

STATEMENT POT STAND Turns a house plant into a focal point

Hallway & cloakroom ‘I didn’t want the decor to compete with the original Minton tile ﬂoor, which we had professionally cleaned – so I kept it simple,’ says Gemma. BUY THE KEY PIECES Try Dorset Marron tiles, £26.49sq m, Wickes. Palm Jungle wallpaper, £85 a roll, Designer Wallpapers

FEBRUARY 2019

2XW RI WRWDO SURWHLQ Å&#x2013;3URGXFHG LQ D IDFWRU\ WKDW KDQGOHV ZKHDW

! !

REAL HOME

Make it work for you GEMMA’S STYLE: ELEGANT GEOMETRICS MY GO-TO STORES… MADE.COM Sleek design paired with functionality, and pieces with gorgeous ﬁnishes.

Delicate neutrals and blush pink combine with angular metallic furnishings for a contemporary living area Warm metallic accents lend a luxurious feel to this sweet scheme

O TROUVA Offers a wide coverage of fabulous smaller businesses. My go-to for gorgeous home accessories.

BLOWSY BLOOMS Pink peonies in glass bowl, £65, Sweetpea & Willow

O OLIVER

BONAS So beautifully consistent with their effortlessly stylish homewares.

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH JAMES FRENCH

LUXE VELVET Geo circles blush cushion, £14.99, Very

CONCENTRIC CIRCLES Madison nesting side tables, £149, Cult Furniture

TOUCH OF METALLIC Sweep ﬂoor lamp in matt grey and copper, £99, Made.com

DECO DESIGN Circles candlestick, £10, Matalan

BUTTON BACK Truffle large sofa in Thatch house linen, £1,645, Loaf SNUGGLE UP Pale pink herringbone weave cotton throw, £27, Ian Snow

STYLIST’S NOTE

“

Mix soft pinks with geo shapes and metallics to prevent the look from becoming overly feminine

”

STEPHANIE DURRANT, SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR

NATURAL SCENT Blomus soft linen candle, £12, Naken Interiors FEBRUARY 2019

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STYLE

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STYLE & DECOR

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SIDE TABLE SOLUTION Easy to squeeze into a kitchendiner or alcove for workingfrom-home days

Use a wire rack and baskets for storage and display

Stylist’s Note ‘A wire rack and baskets works as storage and noticeboard, as well as an alternative to artwork’ Nicky Phillips, Decorating Editor

The sidetable desk is hiding here!

FEBRUARY 2019

STYLE & DECOR

CHARGING STATION Use a slim table for tablets, phones and cable storage

Busy family kitchen-diner Your kitchen is the most chaotic room in the house, so keep the dining table free for meals by squeezing in a dedicated surface for a laptop landing space or a place to charge everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tech without getting in the way of food prep or family dinner time FEBRUARY 2019

FEBRUARY 2019

STYLE & DECOR Stylist’s Note ‘If your only workspace is in a living room, a bureau will blend in beautifully’ Nicky Phillips, Decorating Editor

Hide it all away at the end of the day

HIDEAWAY OFFICE Open for business; shuts at 5pm!

Living and work space Your living room is already working hard as a space for relaxation, entertaining and playtime, so the last thing you need is paperwork littering every surface, too. Choose a calm colour scheme and clever freestanding furniture that hides away all the workday essentials FEBRUARY 2019

Stylist’s Note ‘A simple leaning ladder shelf gives guests a place to make up – and you a work surface’ Nicky Phillips, Decorating Editor

Sofa by day, guest bed by night

FEBRUARY 2019

STYLE & DECOR CHECK YOUR PROFILE A floating desk does double duty as an alcove dressing table

Spare room office space Design a room where guests can rest and you can get creative. With a daybed for deep thinking (or sleeping), simple shelving for doing make-up (or doing business), a space like this can be dual-purpose and stylish. Deep blue walls and a whimsical wallpaper make it calm but so inspiring FEBRUARY 2019

STYLE & DECOR

Busy family kitchen-diner LAPTOP TABLE DETAIL ON OPENER Small clipboard frames, £12 each; wire mesh moodboard, £55; brass binder clips, £5 for 10; wire baskets, from £6.99, all Block Design. Vanity Fair cover postcards, £14.99 for 100, After Noah. Lantlig desk lamp, £30, Ikea. DINING AREA Walls Tea with Florence absolute matt emulsion, £43.50 for 2.5L, Little Greene. Ypperlig table, £150, Ikea. Talia grey spindle back chairs, £95 each; Talia black spindle back chair, £95, all Habitat. Norassen laptop table, £100, Ikea. ON DINING TABLE Table runner made in Danby Buxton 7857/04, £80m, Romo. Signature cast iron round casserole in teal, from £155; Classic pepper mills in teal and marine, £32 each, all Le Creuset. Amera 12 piece dinner service, £120, Habitat. Dove Grey and Parisian Blue napkins, £12 each, The Linen Works. Pollock Blue large bowl, £74; zinc glasses, from £7 each; Classic Portobello tea towel, £8.50; Pollock Blue jug, £52, all Ceramica Blue. ON SHELVES, from top: Gilligan bottle vase, £35, Habitat; Canvas magazine files with leather handles, £16.95 each, The Holding Company; Wooden storage houses, £14 each, Block Design; Bird salt and pepper shakers, £19.99 a pair, Hannah Turner; Oskar A4 document boxes, £14.45 each, The Holding Company; Lotta fruit bowl with ash base, £115, LSA International. ON LAPTOP TABLE Akai DAB radio, £44.99, Very. Sharpener desk tidy, £16.95, All Things Brighton Beautiful at Notonthehighstreet.com. ON WALL IN HALLWAY A Million Miles canvas by Ben Lowe, £375, Loaf. LAPTOP TABLE DETAIL Knotten standing desk, £120, Ikea. Hay AAS32 stool, from £209, Utility Design. Metabi basket, £69 for three, Rose & Grey. ON LAPTOP TABLE A4 storage box, £16.95, Heart & Parcel at Notonthehigh street.com. ON WALL Medium pegboard, £40; small pegboard shelf, £18; peg pack, £15 for 10, all Block Design. ON KITCHEN SHELF, from left: Vintage glass storage jars, £15.54 each, Barn Owl Vintage France at Etsy; Hermano Gato Fig Plant A4 print, £19, Rose & Grey; Amera turquoise bowls, £10 each, Habitat; Hermano Gato Girl with Monstera A4 print, £19, Rose & Grey. ON WORKTOP Amera turquoise dinner plates, £12 each, Habitat. Classic Portabello tea towel, £8.50, Ceramica Blue. Mugs in teal and marine, £15 each, Le Creuset.

FEBRUARY 2019

Living and workspace

Spare room office space

WALLS Half Silver flat emulsion, from £46.50 for 2.5L, Zoffany at Style Library. Bell Twist carpet in Mineral 71482, £39.99sq m, Brintons. Cirrus grey and blue rug, £595, Cox & Cox. Hanson velvet chair, £595, Graham and Green. Slim oak coffee table, £345, Lombok. Large Draper sofa, from £1,499; Grayson bureau, £599, both John Lewis & Partners. ON ARMCHAIR Sheepskin cushion, £45, Debenhams. ON COFFEE TABLE Coupled round tray, £64, Ferm Living at Heal’s. Naomi blue stoneware mugs, £6.50 each, Rose & Grey. Tapered jug, £38, LSA International. Amera bowl, £7, Habitat. Glass Prism vase, £30, Rose & Grey. ON SOFA, from left: Double faux fur sheepskin rug, £30; Shaggy pink cushion, £10, both George Home; cushions made in Ruskin Estuary 7757/20 (front); Ruskin Lavender 7757/40 (back), both £60.50m, Romo; made in Umbra Denim F1244/01, £49m, Clarke & Clarke; made in Lilaea Silks lilac 143216 (front); Lilaea Silks cobalt 143238 (back), both £48m, Harlequin at Style Library; Textured stripe pom pom cushion, £60; Sumptuous single sheepskin rug, £80, Cox & Cox. ON MANTELPIECE Cameron blue dipped stoneware vase, £20; Egito cylinder vase, £25, both Habitat. Porcelain bud vases, £50 for five, Cox & Cox. Idha hurricane lantern, from £29.95, Nkuku. ON WALL October Water acrylic on canvas, £275, Brissi. ON BUREAU Butterfly designer box file, £29, Harris & Jones at Notonthehighstreet.com. Pink leatherette notebook, £9.99, After Noah. For a similar butterfly print, try Etsy. Glitter effect succulent in glass terrarium, £10, George Home. Mingle table lamp, £56, After Noah. ARMOIRE DETAIL Home office armoire in French Grey, from £845, The Dormy House. Popcorn chair in teal, £295, Loaf. ON ARMOIRE, from top: Metabi basket, £69 for three, Rose & Grey; Oskar A4 document boxes, £14.45 each; Canvas magazine files with leather handles, £16.95 each, all The Holding Company; for a similar cobalt blue vase, try Etsy; Hand drawn A4 magnetic closure boxes, £16.95 each, Heart &Parcel at Notonthehighstreet.com; Pink leatherette notebook, as before; Porcelain bud vase, as before; Naomi blue stoneware mug, as before; Hermano Gato Olive Branches A4 print, £19, Rose & Grey; noticeboards covered in Ruskin Estuary, 7757/20, as before.

WALLS Hicks Blue absolute matt emulsion, £43.50 for 2.5L, Little Greene. Silvi Clouds 216602 wallpaper (on chimney breast), £85 a roll, Sanderson at Style Library. Bell Twist carpet in Mineral 71482, £39.99sq m, Brintons. Nordic pom pom rug, £375, Cox & Cox. Blind made in Ruskin Lavender 7757/40, £60.50m, Romo. Hemnes daybed with three drawers, £240; Malfors medium firm mattress, £90 each, both Ikea. Pouco stools in indigo and pink, from £100 each, both Lombok. Tamsin desk shelving, £59, George Home. Grey and white seagrass basket, from £59.95 for three, Graham and Green. Sumptuous single sheepskin rug (folded in basket), £80, Cox & Cox. ON BED Parisian Blue pillowcase, £37.50; Mireille Rose pillowcase, £37.50; Toulon Dove Grey linen flat sheet, from £100; Parisian Blue duvet cover, from £150, all The Linen Works. Soft geometric cushion in Blush, £45, Cox & Cox. For a similar embroidered cushion, try Lewes flea market. Midnight blue velvet quilt throw, from £229, Heal’s. Soft geometric bedspread in Blush, £125, Cox & Cox. Chunky woven throw (in daybed drawer), £18, George Home. ON SHELVES, from top: Sculptural porcelain vase, £42, Ferm Living at Rose & Grey; Little bird, from a selection from the Harmony Copper range, George Home; MW by Matthew Williamson tea light holder, £5, Debenhams; Jaipur designer box file, £29, Harris & Jones at Notonthehighstreet.com; Porcelain bud vases, as before; Nordic storage basket, £16 for two, Debenhams; Canvas magazine files with leather handles, £16.95 each, The Holding Company. BEDROOM DETAIL Ekby Alex shelf with drawers, £35, Ikea. ON SHELF Jaipur blue and butterfly designer box files, £29 each, Harris & Jones at Notonthehighstreet.com. Dispenser from a bathroom set, £7 £10, Debenhams. Pale Grey bud vases, £17.50 for two, Cox & Cox. Small dish from a bathroom set, £7 £10, Debenhams. Hudson desk lamp, £75, Cox & Cox. ON WALL Round oak mirror, £275, Cox & Cox.

FEATURE NICKY PHILLIPS, VANESSA RICHMOND STYLING CAROL WORTLEY-BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHS SIMON WHITMORE

Where to buy

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF

PHOTOGRAPHY SIMON BEVAN

The one-stop edit of the best modern style and design ideas.

BE INSPIRED.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bright colours make us happy!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chris and Michelle Burridge used a no-limits palette to turn their boring, beige inner-city flat into a fun and upbeat place to be

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME Before & after

‘When we moved in, it was a dated, identikit flat designed with no love or style, but we’ve made it sunny, colourful and full of personality’

WALL ART RAD Michelle’s statement vertical heater comes from Geyser

Love

MICHELLE’S STYLE? Turn to page 95 to shop the look

FEBRUARY 2019

Welcome to my home THE PROPERTY A two-bedroom apartment in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.

THE VALUE

Worth around £275,000. Chris Burridge, a selfemployed designer, lives here with his wife Michelle, a full-time mature student and their son George, five.

“

I love the bright space we’ve created here. It might be colourful, but it’s calming and doesn’t feel riotous!

”

“M Take a quick tour...

KITCHEN/ DINING ROOM

ichelle and I didn’t expect to become a two-home-owner family when we moved from London three years ago,’ says Chris. ‘Michelle is originally from Manchester and when we had George we decided to move for cheaper property prices and also to be near her family. We initially bought a house in the outskirts of the city, but with Michelle going back to university full time and me having regular meetings in the centre, we were doing a lot of commuting. We also wanted a long term investment for our pension, so we decided to look for a small apartment in central Manchester that could also act as a city pad. With a combination of money left over from the sale of our London property and some savings, we worked out that we could just afford a twobedroom apartment in the city centre.

BEDROOM LIVING ROOM

BEDROOM

GROUND FLOOR

FEBRUARY 2019

The perfect pad We initially saw loads of places and it took over a year to find the right property. We wanted to take our time and choose an area that would suit us, plus price was a huge factor so we couldn’t afford to get it wrong. This place jumped out at us for its light and views and I liked the room sizes and privacy. However, everything was slightly jaded and badly laid out by previous owners, and it was full of tired, developer fittings. I used to be a set designer, so I have a good eye for design and a sense of spacial planning. I knew immediately that we could make the space work better and it would be easy to update and renovate. Having our

REAL HOME GALLERY WALL White is the perfect backdrop for colourful pictures

GREAT DESIGN for less Love Michelle’s ﬂoor lamp? Try the Arc lamp XL by Paris Prix, £132.49 at Amazon

Quirky calm

‘A home that doesn’t make you feel relaxed is pointless, so we wanted a calm space that would make us smile. We don’t play safe – we want to enjoy our home!’ FEBRUARY 2019

UTENSIL RACK Functional storage doubles as display with this Ferm Living rack

Collect art on a budget Q Update your display regularly to keep it feeling fresh. Hang prints on simple clip hangers or smart clipboards – this makes it a breeze to swap. Q The Affordable Art Fair has a wide selection of budgetfriendly artwork by established artists and rising stars – brilliant for original pieces that no one else will have. Q If you’ve got a decent printer at home, buy printable files on Etsy – it’s a cheap and easy way to create a gallery wall.

FEBRUARY 2019

Good wood

‘The wood-clad wall is my favourite part of the kitchen. It adds warmth and texture to the space’

REAL HOME

True blue

‘The walls, painted in Deep Blue Sea from B&Q’s Colours range, anchor the kitchen’s mixed colour scheme’

GREAT DESIGN for less The base unit is a Maisons du Monde dresser, topped with an oak worktop

“

The riot of colour works so well because it’s been thoughtfully curated rather than thrown together other house meant we didn’t have to live in the property while doing the work. This was both good and bad, because although we had more time to experiment with styles and doing the actual work, we also lost a bit of discipline having no predetermined time constraints, so things took longer than they should have.

Teething troubles We hired a tiler to repair the walls and redo the large floor space. The original living area was zoned by the split tile/carpet effect that developers seem to love. But we wanted to make it all flow into one open-plan space to make the room seem bigger, so we fitted the same tiled flooring throughout. The tiler kept delaying and then after stripping everything out, dumping rubble on the balcony and tiling only about a quarter of the floor

”

he left the job, even leaving his tools behind. We found out later he'd been offered a massive job in a bigger house. Apart from the disappointment, this threw our timings and deliveries into disarray. Luckily, the builder we initially wanted came to the rescue to help finish off the work at the weekends. This came at a greater cost, but the work was really well done so it was worth it. We did the rest of the work ourselves and hired extra labour and a ‘man with a van’ to remove rubbish as required. The rest of the renovation thankfully went much more smoothly.

Saving money Although not to our taste and very outdated, the original kitchen was in good condition, so instead of dumping it and adding to landfill, we decided to save money by selling it on eBay. This then gave us FEBRUARY 2019

GREAT DESIGN for less Create a feature wall for £56.95 with Marimekko’s Aarni wallpaper

Wonder wall

‘The room is so large and light we knew it could take this Marimekko wallpaper without feeling claustrophobic’

Getting it right We spent a lot of time thinking about the decor and researching products, so the project evolved piecemeal to some degree. We looked through some design magazines and blogs as well as well-curated catalogues from upmarket lighting and homeware companies who often have interesting sets that can offer great styling ideas. When we finalised an idea we bought samples and left them in situ day and night, almost auditioning them for the space! We didn’t want to leave anything to chance or make wrong decisions that would cost us money, so we did the

FEBRUARY 2019

same with all the fabrics, paints and wood colours we used. For example, the wooden cladding on the kitchen wall was decided after getting literally dozens of samples to see and feel the texture, sheen and colour of the wood. We knew we needed to get the right tone for it to work exactly how we wanted it to. It wasn't cheap, but there was no point using laminate or wallpaper because it would just look fake.

Finally finished We hired a painter at the end to help finish off the job, so that we could get on and use the space, and it works really well for us as a busy working family. We were initially worried about the affordability of running a second property but because of the way Michelle's timetable has worked out, and the fact that I am freelance, we are able to rent out the property on Airbnb in between our stays, which covers the majority of the costs, so it's been a win-win in the end!

“

a budget to install something we liked. We also wanted to update the shower and replace the light fittings, but we kept everything in the original positions so there was no major electrical work or plumbing needed. I fitted the kitchen and installed the new shower units, which saved a fortune in contractor costs and time.

REAL HOME

Light up

‘Our Miller lights from Made.com give us more space on our bedside tables’

Accent colour

‘We went for a striking MissPrint wallpaper in the guest room and used throws and cushions to pick out the yellow to pull the scheme together’

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

“

Chic store ‘I use the open shelves of this wardrobe to show off my favourite accessories’

Plan really well. Do a spreadsheet of costs and measure everything properly. Don’t leave anything to chance, or you’ll end up paying twice in the long run

”

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

DON’T MISS THE DETAILS...

WORDS AND STYLING LISA MOSES PHOTOGRAPHS COLIN POOLE

Clockwise from top left: This round shelf in the guest room, from Swoon editions, is hung low so it’s easy to reach from the bed; ‘We used this area of the hallway to show oﬀ the prints we’ve collected over the years’; the couple have tucked a work space into the main bedroom; touches of copper, like the hexagonal shelf from Amara, pop against the dark-blue walls in the kitchen.

FEBRUARY 2019

REAL HOME

Make it work for you MICHELLE’S STYLE: ECLECTIC RETRO MY GO-TO STORES… JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS For bedroom wallpapers like our MissPrint and Marimekko ones

Combining bold prints with pops of a vibrant colour, such as sunny yellow, brings a modern space to life To tone down busy patterns, stick to black and white shades

TROUVA It has an eclectic mix of prints and supports small boutiques

GEYSER To ﬁnd unique radiators that are sleek and stylish, yet functional

SPACE SAVER Hebden wall light, £44.99, Dowsing & Reynolds

A DASH OF DETAIL Hatch bottle vase, £30, Kelly Hoppen

WAKE UP WALLS A Thousand Birds framed poster, from £14.95, Juniqe

STYLIST’S NOTE

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING PHOTOGRAPH COLIN POOLE

“

UPDATE WITH ACCENTS Beehive armchair throw, £39, The British Blanket Company

If you don’t want to go full on feature wall, use the wallpaper as a tall headboard panel to frame the bed

”

MICHELA COLLING, STYLE EDITOR

GRAPHIC WEAVE Riley cushion, £12, Dunelm. Mura cushion, £50, Habitat PLAYFUL DESIGN Black triangles jute carpet, £59, Ferm Living

SPLASH ON SUNSHINE Tolix style low stool, £45, Cult Furniture FEBRUARY 2019

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40 Easy style updates

STYLE & DECOR

From best buys and clever tricks to mini decor projects… here’s our roundup of the simplest, quickest ways to make your bedroom more beautiful now

Paint a band of colour

Use masking tape and a spirit level to create a horizontal line about two ﬁfths of the way up your wall, all around the room. Using a sunny, uplifting shade, paint from the ﬂoor to the tape, leaving the rest of the wall and the ceiling the same colour, to create the illusion of space.

FEBRUARY 2019

HANG HEAVIER CURTAINS Not only will thick curtains block draughts and insulate the room, they’ll stop early sun creeping in at the weekend.

TIDY UP YOUR DRESSING TABLE

Clear away random clutter that’s been gathering on your dressing table and make sure everything has a dedicated spot. Have a pot for make-up brushes, boxes for toiletries and mini drawers for jewellery so you can keep everything tidy.

Decorate with pinks

Bring pale powder pink into your bedroom for a barely there layer of warm colour. A touch of matt grey or concrete tones will create a cool contrast to this versatile neutral shade, while industrial or mid-century accessories will stop the look becoming too girly.

Put up a bedside cube

Hang a small shelf or cube by your bed instead of having the usual table or cabinet. This will create a roomier feel, plus an area for storage on the ﬂoor underneath. Try adding a wall-mounted light too so that you can display accessories as well as your alarm clock.

FEBRUARY 2019

Small black alarm clock, £5, Primark

EMBRACE A TECH-FREE ROOM Create a peaceful haven by leaving your smart phone and other fancy gadgets downstairs, and opting for a traditional-style alarm clock.

STYLE & DECOR

MAKE A STYLE STATEMENT

It’s your room, your rules so let your personality shine by picking some statement pieces of furniture. This exotic-style bedside table has enough storage for your essentials, but plenty of colour and pattern to add pizzazz to a neglected sleep space.

Neela bone inlay two-drawer chest, £329, Myakka

Squeeze in a vanity table

If you’ve no space for a dressing table, but you still want a fancy make-up station, go for a slim and smart console table instead. Choose one with handy drawers and complete the look by hanging a mirror above.

REPEAT A SINGLE MOTIF Keep the decorative elements of a small room pared back by using a single motif, such as a heart, for artwork and accessories. Use it in varying scales for a cohesive look. Noble Aztec rug, from £48.99, Carpetright

Lay a cosy rug

Warm up wooden ﬂoors with a thick and cosy rug. Either go for a super-sized option to sit under your bed with plenty of extra on each side, or place it at the end or one side of your bed. It will also help to insulate sound and stop chilly draughts.

Make use of awkward space

A bed tucked under the eaves becomes a snug retreat for guests. Open shelves are the perfect spot for decorative objects, creating a homely feel, while a built-in drawer underneath is ideal for storing bedding and blankets.

SAVE SPACE WITH WALL LIGHTS Choose wall lights to free up your bedside table. Go for a low-wattage bulb and ask your electrician to put them on a separate circuit so that you can control them from the bed.

100

FEBRUARY 2019

Austin metal wall light, ÂŁ30, Matalan

STYLE & DECOR

Get clever with storage

A traditional-style coat stand has a tiny footprint and makes for a great place to hang up what you want to wear the next day. Alternatively, use it to store all your bags, scarves and hats so that they are easy to see and pair with your outﬁt.

UPCYCLE A WOODEN CRATE

Turn a crate into a nifty bedside table. Paint the inside for a fresh look, or leave it plain for a rustic vibe. Stand it on its side and ﬁll with books, adding a lamp and alarm clock on top.

TACKLE SMALL ITEMS WITH BASKETS

Use boxes, baskets, bins and trays to keep clutter at bay. Roll up throws and pop them in baskets, arrange make-up and toiletries on a tray and store shoes in boxes.

Pashmina matt emulsion, £14 for 2.5L; Copper metallic emulsion, £19 for 1.25L, Crown

GET CREATIVE WITH PAINT

Rather than cover an entire wall, why not stencil metallic paint in stripes, squares or circles onto a neutral base for added areas of drama.

INVEST IN A LUXE CHAIR Splash out on a modern armchair or chaise for opulent lounging. Choose one that complements your scheme and that’s perfect for both putting on shoes and relaxing with a book and a pot of tea. FEBRUARY 2019

101

ZONE YOUR SPACE WITH A SCREEN

Create a little dressing corner in your room with a screen or use it to hide piles of laundry and other clutter. This way, your bedroom will remain a calm space to unwind in. Whitewash wooden screen, ÂŁ229, Myakka

Turn a chest yellow

Give an old chest of drawers new life by painting it bright yellow. Sand off any paint or varnish and use a good primer. Finish with wax or a clear matt varnish.

ADD MIRRORS TO A WARDROBE It might seem like a dated idea, but if wall space is lacking, the wardrobe door is the perfect place for a full-length mirror.

Layer up cushions

Create a bed that just screams comfy by arranging cushions and throws in different colours, sizes and textures. Even if your bedlinen is past its best, a few inexpensive cushions will lift the look and become a space to relax in.

102

FEBRUARY 2019

STYLE & DECOR

SWAP OVER SHADES

Give your bedroom a quick update by replacing faded bedside lamp shades with something a little more bright and beautiful. Take a look at Pooky’s mix and match shades and bases and choose one to go with your scheme. Aurora table lamp with pink pattern cotton lampshade, £135, Pooky

IMPROVE THE AIR WITH PLANTS

Freshen the air in your bedroom with indoor plants such as aloe vera and peace lily. They ﬁlter out harmful compounds, resulting in a healthier environment.

Clerkenwell solid wood hanging rail, £265; Clerkenwell standing mirror and hanger, £210, both Soak & Sleep.

Try an ombre wallpaper

Dare to be a little braver in your bedroom and choose a wall-to-wall statement wallpaper. An ombre effect is a great way of adding colour without it being too overpowering and allows you to introduce different shades.

Sheepskin rug, £65, Oliver Bonas

TREAT FEET TO A COSY START Add warmth with a sheepskin rug laid by the bed ready for toes to sink into each morning. Or drape one over a stool for a luxe dressing table seat.

Create a dressing space

Add a hanging rail to a spare room and transform it into your very own dressing area. A full-length mirror ensures the ultimate walk-in-wardrobe effect.

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Try a touch of fresh mint

If you love simple white walls, go one step further with this pale green shade. It has an amazing power to brighten gloomy rooms or cool down sunny, south-facing ones.

SEE YOURSELF FROM ALL ANGLES

Hang this mirror on the wall over a chest of drawers or mantel and the folding sides will give you a view of yourself from all angles.

Aged zinc folding wall mirror, £145, The Farthing

UPDATE HANDLES AND KNOBS Give bedside tables, drawers and wardrobes a new look by replacing handles with smart leather, gorgeous glass or posh brass options. Try Ikea, Graham & Green or John Lewis for great designs.

GO FOR SLIM STORAGE

A tall and skinny chest of drawers is a great option for storing underwear and socks; it doubles up as a standing dressing table too. Pop a small vanity mirror on top and you have a slimline make-up station that could squeeze into any space.

St Ives natural oak and light grey painted ﬁve-drawer tallboy, £374, Oak Furniture Land

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SQUEEZE IN A LADDER SHELF

Rather than clutter a small room with bulky storage, go for open ladder shelving instead. It makes a great place for displaying jewellery, accessories and keepsakes.

STYLE & DECOR Willow king size ottoman bed in Candy, £1, 375, Button & Sprung.

34 Store more under the bed

With pneumatic gas-lift arms to easily raise the mattress from the base, an ottoman bed is the perfect solution for storage woes. Extra bedding, shoes or even Christmas decorations can all be safely stowed out of sight.

CHOOSE HIDDEN STORAGE

For a headboard with neat storage, cover an MDF board with black gloss Fablon (stickyback plastic) or paint. Screw picture ledges to the back, attach to wall and stow bits and bobs.

CHEAT HOTEL-CHIC STYLE

Make your bed look like one in a hotel by arranging pillows on their edges. Start with large cushions, then pillows and ﬁnish oﬀ with an accent cushion or two.

Put up a picture shelf

In lieu of a traditional rail, a picture shelf should sit one sixth of the way down from the ceiling, but not so high that you can’t see what’s on display. Paint or paper below it, but leave the shelf and the wall above the same colour as the ceiling.

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STYLE & DECOR

Put up a full-width shelf

Instead of a picture above your bed, hang a ﬂoating shelf across the full width of the wall. Position it high enough so that you won’t hit your head when sitting up in bed and arrange favourite plants and photos.

UPDATE BEDLINEN

Changing an old bed set for something new is a speedy way to give your room fresh appeal. If you already have pattern on your walls, go for something simple and chic for a restful mood.

Luxe bedding bundle in rose, from £99, Bedfolk

Modern double headboard, £329; Rico single pendant light, £39.50; triangle textured double bed set, £59, all Marks & Spencer

GET CLEVER WITH STORAGE

Build a storage headboard by stacking Ikea’s Trones shoe cabinets and ﬁxing to the wall. Great for spare bedding, pyjamas, books and out-of-season clothes.

ADD AN EXTRA WARDROBE

Forget stuﬃng jeans and jumpers into bursting drawers – instead, invest in an extra wardrobe to store your clothes properly. A free-standing design means it’s easy to move if you want to, and this mango wood beauty from Myakka also has a matching bed frame, bedside table and chest of drawers so you can update the rest of your furniture at the same time.

Heera storage wardrobe, £949, Myakka

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FEATURE HOLLY WALSH PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

DESIGN YOUR OWN HEADBOARD For an alternative to an upholstered headboard, hang two cushions from a curtain pole above the bed. Sew your own or use ready-made seat pads with ribbon ties.

Original Art & Limited Edition Prints

RUNWAY GALLERY w w w . r u n w a y - g a l l e r y. c o m / i d e a l h o m e in association with

Pictured: Flamingo Flowers by Alexandra Gallagher, limited edition print, ÂŁ250

‘This used to be our dark, dingy basement’ The Roebucks opened up their neglected basement to create a lovely, bright kitchen-diner and living area

Love JACQUI’S STYLE?

Turn to page 113 to shop the look

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KITCHEN PROJECT

BEFORE

Welcome to my home Jacqui Roebuck lives here with her husband, Ian.

THE PROPERTY

A five-bed, detached Victorian house in Hastings, East Sussex.

WHAT IT COST MARBLE WORKTOP A cool contrast to the chunky wood worktops elsewhere ‘The basement was a selfcontained annexe. It was damp and shabby, but we knew it would make an amazing kitchen and living space connected to the garden. We removed walls, replaced the windows and added glass doors to fill it with light,’ says Jacqui. Hemsley units, from £301, DIY Kitchens. Carrara marble worktop, £576sq m, Margrasil. Prime oak worktop, £675 for 3.5m, Worktop Express

Units.....................£5,000 Worktops.............£3,468 Sink and tap............£842 Appliances............£3,311 Furniture...............£1,904 Paint.........................£100 Tiles......................£2,885 Doors and window................£4,500 Lighting...................£370 TOTAL...............£22,380

“

Our favourite thing about the room is how much light it gets. It was so dark before, but now it feels so open and spacious

”

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KITCHEN PROJECT

HOW JACQUI AND IAN DID IT ‘We started work as soon as we could get builders and structural surveyors on board. I drew all the plans myself, which was pretty stressful and we hit some problems when our surveyor said we needed a column where we wanted the island. But, luckily, our builder worked with him to find larger steels, which meant we could do without it. Designing the kitchen area entailed a lot of measuring and graph paper.

IDEAL HOME

loves

Vintage dining furniture Beautiful, worn wood that gives a newly renovated space a lived-in, characterful look

PARQUET-LOOK TILES More hard-wearing and easier to clean than real wood

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FEBRUARY 2019

I’m a keen cook and I wanted a large island with cupboards on both sides. We already had most of the furniture and I spent a lot of time researching products to keep costs down. It took six months to do the work and the building costs were around £35,000. We love this space and spend most of our time here. It’s perfect for entertaining family and friends, especially when we throw the doors open in the summer.’

BELOW The couple mixed second-hand wooden furniture with a new sofa in the dining and seating area opposite the kitchen. ‘A home is more interesting when you mix old and new,’ says Jacqui. ‘Vintage treasures have given this space colour and personality.’ For a similar dining table, try Selling Antiques. Navy Style brass chairs, £79 each, Cult Furniture. Ariana sofa in Ochre Velvet, from £695, Made.com

FEATURE KATE HILL, VANESSA RICHMOND STYLING KATE HILL PHOTOGRAPHS LIZZIE ORME

ABOVE Open shelves add storage and an opportunity for display in an awkward corner. Brass wall brackets give them a traditional touch. Solid oak oiled floating shelves, £18 each, eBay. Brass brackets, £22.95 for two, Ruby Roost

FLUTED FRONT Adds an authentic country aesthetic

LEFT Jacqui and Ian chose a stainless-steel range oven to provide lots of cooking space and bring a modern country feel to the kitchen. Elise 110 cooker, £2,184, Rangemaster. Mini metro tiles, £33.78sq m, Tons of Tiles. Bloomingville gold utensils are similar, from £13 each, Trouva

ABOVE Pink painted walls give a fresh, pretty and modern contrast to the deep green, traditionalstyle Shaker cabinets. Butler sink 800mm, £523, Shaws of Darwen. Walls in Pink Halo kitchen and bathroom paint, £28 for 2.5L, Valspar at B&Q

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

“

Attention to detail is key to the final look. Taking time to source individual elements, like the brass handles, and finding decorative pieces gave this room its personality

”

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AWARD-WINNING LUXURY RIVER CRUISES IN EUROPE ON THE RHINE, DANUBE, MOSELLE, MAIN, RHÔNE, DOURO, SEINE, SAÔNE OR DUTCH WATERWAYS Riviera Travel’s award-winning river cruises include everything you need for an exceptional experience. Cruise Europe’s most beautiful waterways aboard the ﬁnest ships, featuring superb dining on board and spacious suites and cabins – many with a French balcony for unrivalled views. Choose from 14 fascinating river cruises that take you to the iconic highlights as well as lesser-known gems. CRUISE INCLUDES: O

Spacious and beautifully appointed suites or cabins with hotel-style beds, en suite bathrooms and river views

Exceptional cuisine with full board throughout

Extensive and fully inclusive touring programmes

Return ﬂights from a choice of regional airports or standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras

Return rail connections on selected dates and cruises from over 50 regional stations (supplements may apply)

The services of our experienced cruise director and tour manager

Cruise Destination

Departure Dates

Duration

Price from pp

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland

April to October 2019

8 days

£1,449

Rhine & Moselle

May to October 2019

8 days

£1,499

Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg

April to October 2019

8 days

£1,399

The Blue Danube - Vienna, Budapest & Salzburg

April to October 2019

8 days

£1,299

Cruise the Heart of Europe - from the Rhine to the Danube, Vienna & Budapest

April to October 2019

15 days

£1,899

Burgundy, River Rhône & Provence

April to October 2019

8 days

£1,299

Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbﬁelds

April 2019

8 days

£1,399

Amsterdam, Kinderdijk & the Dutch Bulbﬁelds

April 2019

5 days

£1,049

The Seine, Paris & Normandy

June to October 2019

8 days

£1,499

The Douro, Porto & Salamanca

April to November 2019

8 days

£1,399

Budapest to The Black Sea – Gems of Eastern Europe

April to September 2019

15 days

£2,799

Medieval Germany

May to October 2019

8 days

£1,499

The Danube’s Imperial Cities & Yuletide Markets

December 2019

6 days

£649

Enchanting Rhine & Yuletide Markets

December 2019

5 days

£499

CALL 01283 744319 TO BOOK OR FOR A FREE BROCHURE, OR VISIT IDERIVIERA.CO.UK TERMS & CONDITIONS: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Ideal Home, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of print.

KITCHEN PROJECT

Make it work for you JACQUI’S STYLE: GILT-EDGED

Sleek fixtures and fittings in ceramic, glass and polished metals will make a classic kitchen shine

5 4 WHERE TO BUY 1 LIGHT House Doctor light, £119, Hurn & Hurn 2 MIRROR Kempton wall mirror, £245, Loaf

FEATURE LISA FAZZANI

3 STOOL Kane bar stool in gold, £182.99, Wayfair

6 COOKER Elise 110 range cooker in stainless steel, £2,184, Rangemaster

7 FLOOR TILES Cerused wood-effect chevron tiles, £49.95sq m, Walls and Floors

4 PLANT Artificial fern, £8, Argos

8 SINK Original Bowland sink in white, £612, Shaws of Darwen

5 TOASTER Dualit NewGen toaster in brass, £149.50, John Lewis & Partners

9 TAP Nyvattnet mixer tap in polished brass-colour, £90, Ikea

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‘We supersized a tiny galley kitchen’ Having a skinny kitchen and a huge dining room next door didn’t make sense, so the Steens knocked them into one big space

IDEAL HOME

loves

Parquet-effect flooring The herringbone pattern and subtle colour variations in the wood give a neutral room warmth and texture

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KITCHEN PROJECT

BEFORE PICTURE ROW Visually connects the separate kitchen and dining areas of the room

Welcome to my home Louise Steen lives here with her husband, James, and their sons Charlie, 21, and Billy, 16, and daughter Daisy, 15.

THE PROPERTY A five-bedroom Edwardian semi in southwest London.

WHAT IT COST

‘The tiny galley kitchen was cramped and its flat roof made it feel oppressive,’ says Louise. As well as knocking through, the couple swapped the roof for a pitched one in the kitchen area, with a skylight to brighten the space. Herringbone fumed oak flooring, £47.99sq m, Jordan’s Wood Flooring. Lejongap curtains, £30, Ikea

Units....................£15,400 Worktops and splashback..........£4,800 Appliances..........£2,579 Flooring................£1,920 Lighting...................£296 Paint..........................£291 Blind..........................£175 Glass.......................£328 TOTAL...............£25,789

“

Making it one space has changed the way we live. It’s where everyone congregates!

”

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HOW LOUISE AND JAMES DID IT ‘We’ve been here for 14 years and the kitchen and dining area never really worked! It was tough to have more than one person in the kitchen at a time and it was always dark. Plus, the only access to the garden was a small door. Last year, we couldn’t stand it any longer, so we got Giles Sequeira of Empire Build in and he suggested pitching the roof at the kitchen end and adding a large roof lantern to

bring in more light. We also blocked in the old garden door and replaced the dining room window with lovely French doors. It was a major upheaval, as we couldn’t use the back of the house at all for 14 weeks, and the building work and kitchen fitting cost £46,000. We chose painted units for an unfussy modern-country look, in soft blue to add colour and personality. They look like they’ve always been there!’

Love LOUISE’S STYLE?

Turn to page 119 to shop the look

COMPOSITE TOP Gives the look and feel of marble with the durability of quartz

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FEBRUARY 2019

BELOW ‘Taking down the wall between the kitchen and dining room meant we could have a breakfast bar, which has become the place everyone wants to sit. They perch on the stools while James or I cook, which we both love,’ says Louise. ‘The breakfast bar also shields the dining area from the business end of the space.’ Statuario Nuvo 30mm worktop and splashback, £800sq m, Caesarstone. Vintage lab stools, £40 each, eBay

KITCHEN PROJECT

FEATURE STEPHANIE SMITH, VANESSA RICHMOND PHOTOGRAPHS DAVID GILES

BESPOKE DOORS A more traditional choice for period homes that won’t date like bifolds

ABOVE ‘A larder was on my fantasy list, but there wasn’t room, so this is the next best thing – a unit with shelves and drawers hidden away behind doors,’ says Louise. Larder, £1,800, Empire Build; painted in Bone China Blue intelligent eggshell, £62 for 2.5L, Little Greene

ABOVE ‘We’ve created a ton of storage with built-in cupboards along the back wall, with a ledge that can be used as a seat.’ Handmade doors, £2,750, Empire Build. Tablecloth, £28.50, Only Oilcloths. Volfgang chairs, £70 each, Ikea, are similar

RIGHT ‘Having the units hand made was nowhere near as expensive as we’d thought and meant we could choose the size and colour, and get exactly the right amount of storage.’ Bespoke kitchen, £9,000, Ellerton at Home range, Empire Build

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

“

Spend where it makes a difference. If we’d kept the f lat roof, it wouldn’t have been such a successful project. Pitching the roof has transformed that end of the room

”

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EST. 1920

Â®

NEW RANGE OF FURNITURE, LIGHTING & ACCESSORIES now available at

V E R Y. C O . U K

REAL HOME

Make it work for you LOUISE’S CHOICE: A BESPOKE KITCHEN Can’t find an off-the-peg kitchen that suits? Take a tailor-made approach and go for a custom design If you’re after a one-of-a-kind kitchen, then going bespoke is the perfect solution. Designed specifically with you and your space in mind, you get to choose every detail, from the size and positioning of the units to the type of island, the colour scheme and the worktops, for a completely unique finish.

Where do I start? Do your research first, so you know what you want before contacting any kitchen companies. Look at magazines, kitchen brochures, showrooms and online (Pinterest and Instagram are great sources of inspiration) and put together a mood board of what you like, ready to show a designer.

FEATURE LISA FAZZANI *KBSA – KITCHEN, BATHROOM, BEDROOM SPECIALISTS ASSOCIATION *IKBBI – INSTITUTE OF KITCHEN, BEDROOM AND BATHROOM INSTALLERS

Who should I use? Always choose an established company with a reputation for hand-crafted joinery. There’s nothing better than a personal recommendation, but it’s also worth speaking to local companies who provide a bespoke service, checking their online reviews. You can also ask to visit past projects to check the quality of the work.

How much input will I have? Finding a designer that you’ve got a rapport with can make all the difference. After talking through

your requirements, measuring up and advising on what’s achievable, they’ll put together a detailed brief and draw up a plan. Be clear about what you want and ask questions – the more input you have at the design stage, the better.

A bespoke design is tailored to your unique needs

What can I expect to pay? Prices vary considerably. A bespoke kitchen can cost anything from £18,000 to upwards of £50,000. Always have a plan of how much you want to spend and be upfront about it, and get a written quote (not an estimate) as this is the final price you’ll pay and should include a detailed timeline.

What if there’s a problem? Keep all paperwork just in case. Choosing trades accredited by TrustMark, the KBSA or the IKBBI can help resolve issues, as you can approach them directly for a dispute resolution. Also avoid paying the full balance before completion and pay by credit card if you can, for extra protection.

BEST FOR…

“

A bespoke kitchen will be built around how you want it to work, rather than you having to adapt your ideas to match what is available off-the-shelf SAM HART, DESIGNER, ROUNDHOUSE

”

IDEAL HOME LOVES… COLOURFUL BESPOKE KITCHENS

GO GREEN Keep it traditional with panelled doors in a smart bottle green. Arbor bespoke kitchen, from £18,000, Harvey Jones

INTO THE BLUE Team classic blue and white for a timeless look. Bespoke kitchen, from £35,000, Martin Moore

TOUCH OF PINK Go for sleek, flush front doors in a chic charcoal and blush combo. Bespoke kitchen, from £25,000, Life Kitchens

ONLINE ADVICE Trustmark.org.uk is a government endorsed site where you can find useful tips and advice as well as a directory of registered tradespeople. SEMI-BESPOKE For a less pricey alternative to totally custom designs, look at kitchen companies who can tailor existing ranges, such as Neptune. COLOUR If you’re nit-picking over the perfect shade for a painted kitchen, browse Farrow & Ball’s often-used paint range for online colour inspiration.

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‘We painted it black, but it feels bigger’ Jess Hurrell turned to the dark side to transform a dated bathroom – complete with built-in fish tank – into an open, luxurious space

PAINTED RAD Jess painted the old chrome design with eggshell

Swapping the brick-walled shower enclosure for simple glass panels and knocking out some storage and boxing-in has opened up the space. The white bath and marble tiles bounce light around the room. Bespoke glass shower screen, £200, for similar try Mirrors and Glass UK. Walls and ceiling painted in Off-Black modern emulsion, £45 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball

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BATHROOM PROJECT

BEFORE

MATCHING CEILING Smooths out the awkward angles of a sloping roof

Welcome to my home Jess Hurrell lives here with her husband David and children Rafferty, six and Nellie, three. Jess blogs at goldisaneutral.com.

THE PROPERTY A four-bedroom Victorian terrace in southeast London.

WHAT IT COST

Love

JESS’S STYLE? Turn to page 125 to shop the look

Bath and basin.....£2,715 Shower head, valve and screen.............£1,106 Taps.......................£1,599 Joinery.....................£700 Marble tops..........£1,200 Vanity unit doors...£1,149 Tiles and paint....£2,030 TOTAL..........£10,798.90

“

The kids love filling the bath all the way to the top and diving in!

”

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HOW JESS DID IT ‘The old bathroom was a beige, masculine space with heavy brown cupboards and an empty tropical fish tank set into the chimney breast. We lived with it for nearly three years while we saved up. I wanted a scheme with glamour and elegance but, as this is a family bathroom, it had to be functional, too. We stuck to the existing layout, hoping that using the same plumbing would save money, but when the old bath came out, we found that the pipes were running along the walls rather than between the floor joists. They had to be re-routed, which was tricky and time-consuming. It was worth it though – the bathtub is the centrepiece that pulls everything together. Installation took about three months and cost about £5,000. I’m so proud of the result – it’s probably my favourite room in the entire house.’ The couple replaced the fish tank in the chimney breast with a mantelpiece bought on eBay. Artificial plants, from £20 each, Hello Flora

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A birch-ply cabinet was built into the space and brass-clad doors added, ‘The brass dulls down and shows finger marks and splashes, but I’m not too precious about it,’ says Jess. ‘I prefer an aged patina.’ Cupboard, £250; doors, £1,149, both Custom Fronts. Bespoke satin brass finish three-hole basin tap, £706.92, Perrin and Rowe

ROUND MIRROR Softens all the straight lines and right angles in a room

IDEAL HOME

loves

Art Deco-style wall lights Matt brass is perfect for giving a bathroom simple glamour. Jess found her lights on eBay for £75 each

BATHROOM PROJECT

FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY PHOTOGRAPHS AND STYLING COLIN POOLE

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

“

People were quite sceptical about the black walls and ceiling, but it looks great, and disguises the slanting angles. I’m glad I trusted my instincts and stuck to my plan

”

ABOVE The roll-top bath is a nod to the house’s Victorian history. ‘We gained a lot more room by replacing the boxed-in bath with a freestanding one,’ says Jess. ‘It meant we could fit in a larger shower, too.’ York bath, £2,295, Victoria and Albert. Bespoke Satin Brass finish three-hole bath tap, £892.20, Perrin & Rowe. Black Pradena floor tiles, £147sq m, Bert and May

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FULLY ESCORTED TOURS

Experience some of the world’s best destinations with these amazing tours

JAPAN – LAND OF THE RISING SUN

SOUTH AFRICA

13 DAYS FROM £3,299PP DEPARTURES FROM MARCH TO NOVEMBER 2019

16 DAYS FROM ONLY £2,199PP | 18 DAYS FROM £4,099PP DEPARTURES FEBRUARY TO NOVEMBER 2019

PRICE INCLUDES O See the famous sights of Tokyo O Enjoy astonishing views of Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi and the hot spring, mountain spa resort of Hakone O Travel at 189 mph on the incomparable high speed bullet trains O Reflect on the horrors of war at Hiroshima’s Peace Park and museum O Explore Kyoto on a guided tour O Guided tour of Nara, Japan’s first capital with its huge bronze Buddha O Opportunity to learn origami, flower arranging or Japanese cooking O Return flights from the UK, plus all hotel transfers. Premium economy upgrades available at a supplement O Hand picked accommodation rated four stars, including all local taxes, with breakfast and three meals included O The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

PRICES INCLUDE Guided tour of the Zulu War battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift O Full day guided safari in Kruger National Park O Stay in the Western Cape’s Winelands, enjoying a cellar tour and tasting O Stay three nights in cosmopolitan Cape Town O Explore the Cape of Good Hope and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens O Visit Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum O Gaze at the awe inspiring Blyde River canyon O Visit Hermanus for on shore whale watching, dependent on season O Take an internal flight to the stunning Garden Route O Return flights from the UK, plus all hotel transfers O Stay in four star and three star hotels with daily breakfast, two lunches and three dinners O The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout O

GRAND TOUR OF CHINA

INDIA

16 DAYS INCLUDING YANGTZE CRUISE FROM £2,599PP DEPARTURES FROM MARCH TO OCTOBER 2019

11 DAYS FROM £1,489PP | 15 DAYS FROM £1,969PP DEPARTURES FROM MARCH TO NOVEMBER 2019

PRICES INCLUDE O Visit the astonishing Great Wall of China O Discover the world famous Terracotta Army O Tour of the Panda Breeding & Research Centre with a local guide O Marvel at the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace in Beijing O See the man made wonder of the Longshen Rice Terraces O Enjoy a full board, ﬁve star Yangtze River Cruise O City tour of Shanghai O Guided tour of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City O Travel from Shanghai to Beijing on a 186mph high speed train O Cruise the world famous Li River and visit the riverside town of Yangshuo O Return ﬂights from the UK, plus all hotel transfers O Hand picked accommodation rated four stars, with breakfast plus 14 meals, which include a Peking duck banquet O The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout O Departures exclusively for solo travellers also available

PRICES INCLUDE O A wonderful tour of northern India’s ‘Golden Triangle’ O See the breathtaking Taj Mahal bathed in soft morning light O Panoramic city tours of both Old and New Delhi O Enjoy a guided tour of the deserted Moghul city of Fatehpur Sikri O Driving safari in Ranthambore National Park O Guided city tour of Jaipur, capital of the desert kingdom of Rajasthan O Marvel at the extraordinary location and beauty of Amber Fort, home of one of India’s most powerful maharajas O Stay in an original Rajasthani fort, converted into a Heritage Hotel O Return ﬂights from the UK, plus all hotel transfers. Premium economy upgrades available at a supplement O Hand picked accommodation rated three to ﬁve stars, including all local taxes, with breakfast and seven meals included O The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

CALL 01283 744319 TO BOOK OR FOR A FREE BROCHURE, OR VISIT IDERIVIERA.CO.UK Prices are based on two people sharing and are correct at time of print. Single supplements may apply. This holiday is operated by and subject to booking conditions of Riviera Travel, ABTA V4744 ATOL 3430 protected. Subject to availability. Additional entrance costs may apply. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. For further information please write to Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP.

REAL HOME

Make it work for you JESS’S STYLE: LUXE ELEMENTS

Statement tiles, lush faux foliage and touches of gleaming gold are a sure-fire recipe for elegance in a bathroom

1 2

3 4 5

IDEAL

ADD A LITTLE GLITZ WITH A STATEMENT SHOWERHEAD £492

FEATURE KATRINA HARPER-LEWIS

GREAT DEAL

GOLDEN GLIMMER

300mm Chessleton shower rose in brass, £492, Drummonds

£299

BRONZED TOUCH

MPRO 300mm shower head in brushed brass, £299, Crosswater

WHERE TO BUY 1 Artificial trailing fern, £16.50, Audenza 2 Body Line art poster, from £6.95; frame, from £8.95, both Desenio 3 Salix planter with stand, £49 for two, Made.com 4 Scintilla black star pattern tiles, £29.95sq m, Walls and Floors 5 Two-bulb wall sconce in raw brass, £68.71, Illuminate Vintage 6 BC Designs Bampton freestanding bath, £2,034.98, Drench FEBRUARY 2019

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BEFORE & AFTER

‘We’ve given our Sixties bungalow a modern makeover’ Alastair and Sally Campbell transformed this property inside and out, filling it with light and giving it a raft of eco features that make it really economical to run

Extending, new windows and fresh white render has given the exterior of the property a contemporary, Japaneseinspired style. Inside, the space has been reconfigured

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B E FOR E

IDEAL HOME

loves

Frameless glazing It has a beautiful, minimalist look, and helps blur the lines between the interior and exterior

The long, low, Modernist-style bungalow had a warren of small rooms inside

Welcome to our home Alastair Campbell lives here with his wife, Sally. THE PROPERTY A four-bed Sixties bungalow in Edinburgh. THE VALUE Bought for £687,000 in 2013. Now worth around £1.25million. WHAT IT COST Preliminaries, building work and materials........£116,100 Roofing, woodwork and windows..............£184,310 Electrics, plumbing and heating..................£41,429 Flooring, finishes and decoration..............£17,237 Specialist insulation and render............£35,255 Prime cost and provisional sums.....................£32,005 Heat pump...........£20,000 Solar panels...........£8,000 TOTAL............£454,336

“

Every window in the house has a different view

”

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Take a quick tour... GARAGE

BEDROOM BEDROOM

BEDROOM

KITCHEN

LIVING ROOM

STUDY

GROUND FLOOR

hen Sally and Alastair Campbell purchased a Sixties bungalow in 2013, their first thought was: ‘How much of this can we knock down?’ The long, low house – a one-off design commissioned by the previous owners – had some obvious shortcomings, particularly its warren of small rooms with low ceilings and a big, space-wasting loft above. MAKING PLANS The couple found Edinburgh-based

FEATURE CAROLINE EDNIE PHOTOGRAPHS DAVID BARBOUR PLANS AGENCY SERVICE

Konishi Gaffney Architects, who fulfilled all of their requirements and had experience in environmental and sustainable building. Although planning permission to build a new two-storey house was already in place, they decided to go down a different route: ‘We explored the idea of demolishing and rebuilding, but the house was well-built and had been very well kept,’ says Sally. ‘So, we decided to keep the existing building, but extend and change it. What we liked about it is that it actually felt quite Japanese. It was low lying, with low eaves and black timber detailing.’ REORGANISING THE SPACE Internally, the

transformation was dramatic. The original rectangular bungalow was changed into a T-shaped plan, with a pitched roof over the garage, which connects to the building via a corridor open to the garden at one side. An extension with two further bedrooms and a bathroom is at the far end of the T. The star of the show, though, is at the centre of the property: ‘We ended up knocking out the middle of the house to create some height in the kitchen, dining and living area,’ says Sally. Bespoke laminated timber ceiling trusses add even more drama to the space. ‘The design is excellent,’ says Alastair. ‘Everything is on the same level, so it’s a very easy house to live in. After all, we’re not getting any younger!’

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The middle part of the bungalow is this double-height, openplan kitchen-diner and living space, with a wood-burning stove at its centre

BEFORE & AFTER

Contemporary, wraparound windows flood the bungalow with light

5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT…

External insulation cladding Kieran Gaffney of Konishi Gaffney Architects has the facts

1 Sliding Shoji screens, instead of internal doors, give flexible closed or openplan spaces

High, horizontal windows preserve privacy when required, without the need for blinds

WHAT WE’VE LEARNED

IT MAKES AN OLD BUILDING MORE ECO A 180mm insulation panel cladding system is an ideal alternative to demolishing a building that is structurally sound. It updates the fabric of the house in an eco-friendly and sustainable way.

IT SAVES SPACE The system means that you don’t have to eat up any space internally with insulation.

“

Your house can actually make you money! We sought help from a Renewables Consultant at East Coast Eco Systems, and we now produce more electricity than we need for ourselves, so the house is a net contributor to the grid

”

IT RETAINS HEAT BRILLIANTLY There are no cold bridges in external insulation and heat is stored inside the house.

IT’S TEMPERATURE REGULATING When you insulate from the inside, the building can get hot and cold quickly, whereas external insulation helps maintain an even temperature.

IT HAS A SLICK FINISH The panels give the exterior a contemporary, minimalist look.

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‘Our extension connects us to the garden’ A stylish single-storey kitchen-diner extension has transformed Pete and Linda Cronin’s Sixties house

AFTER

BE FOR E

Garden access was only possible through the uPVC conservatory

ete Cronin and his wife, Linda, moved here from their listed property to create a more contemporary, open-plan home. ‘We wanted a larger garden, a garage and plenty of light,’ explains Pete. ‘The previous owners built this house in the Sixties and didn’t make any tweaks in the years that followed.’ A CHANGE OF PLAN

‘The downstairs definitely needed a rethink,’ says Pete. ‘The kitchen was disconnected from the dining room and the garden could only be reached by walking through the conservatory, which was either freezing or roasting.’ EXPERT HELP

Pete and Linda approached Granit Architects (granit.co.uk) to design a modern, single-storey extension, which would increase their kitchen space while creating a better connection to the garden. ‘Granit suggested Siberian larch cladding and a bright, open space,’ says Pete. A SMOOTH BUILD

‘We sold the old conservatory on eBay. Our new extension was built using steel and timber, then clad in the larch with shadow gaps. It’s a beautiful contrast to the brick, and the space is cleverly designed to give us everything we asked for.’

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FEBRUARY 2019

Aluminium bifold doors now connect the living room with the garden

Welcome to my home THE PROPERTY A detached threebedroom Sixties house in Surrey.

THE VALUE

Pete Cronin, a sales and marketing director, lives here with his wife, Linda, a digital content manager.

Bought for £925,000 in 2013; now worth around £1.3 million.

WHAT IT COST

Architect fees.................£25,000 Building work, plumbing and materials.........£80,000

Glazing.............£13,000 Kitchen and utility.................£20,000 Electrics and white goods...............£12,000 TOTAL............£150,000

now have “theWeopen-plan

layout we wanted, as well as fantastic views of the garden – and it only took five months!

”

BEFORE & AFTER

Larch cladding is favoured for its durability, and looks stylish, too

Handle-less drawers and Silestone worktops keep the new space looking streamlined

5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT…

Flat roofs Ceramic tiles from Mandarin Stone cover up the underﬂoor heating system

Robert Wilson, from Granit, shares his know-how

THEY’RE GREAT FOR EXTENSIONS Flat roofs are popular for new extensions as they look sleek, avoid blocking the view from upper windows and can easily be inset with rooﬂights.

THEY NEED EARLY PLANNING Like with all roofs, the design will need to be planned early on by an expert who understands building regulations, to ensure efficient design.

FEATURE DEBBIE JEFFERY PHOTOGRAPHS ANDREW BEASLEY

YOU CAN PLANT THEM Planted roofs can provide a variety of colour throughout the year. Plus, their soundprooﬁng and insulation properties make them a practical choice.

WHAT WE’VE LEARNED

“

Bigger isn’t always better. We’d originally planned to extend across the entire rear of the house, but by scaling back we were able to reduce costs and improve the layout

”

METAL IS ANOTHER OPTION In addition to the more conventional felt or fibreglass finishes, metal roofing, such as zinc and copper, is a contemporary option, which comes in flexible sheet form – ideal for flat roofs.

THEY NEED EXPERT INSTALLATION A poorly constructed ﬂat roof can leak, but using an experienced company, which offers a long warranty, should ensure your roof lasts for many years.

FEBRUARY 2019

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Genius problem solvers

FOR A SMOOTH-RUNNING LIFE Our pick of the latest home innovations, solutions and stuff you never knew you needed… ASSISTED LIVING

Make getting in and out easier with an up-and-down bed The Mode bed has a split base so you can move each side separately. Raise one to help you get in or out, level them to the same height, and even select a massage function to soothe aches and pains. It can be controlled by a remote or an app and has LED lights to help you find your way in the dark. Mode bed frame in light grey, £2,399 for a double, Mode

CHARGE UP YOUR TECH… ANYWHERE

SMART-TECH TABLE This sleek side table packs in two USB ports, as well as a Qi wireless charger and Bluetooth speakers.

San Francisco USB lamp table, £374, Wooden Furniture Store

LAMP CHARGER There’s a teeny USB port hidden in the base. Industrial task table lamp with USB, £99, West Elm

Manage home admin with your phone Online home management website Hoppy will help you keep track of bills, important household documents and even help you book tradespeople. Subscribe for free SLEEP TECH

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FEBRUARY 2019

USB ports on either side of this bed frame, make overnight charging easy.

Bergamo bed frame with USB, from £349, Bensons for Beds

Get cold filtered water on tap

Fall asleep faster The Soundasleep pillow has a built-in speaker, so you can listen to music or audio books in bed, all controlled via an app. You can also play mindfulness tracks, from waves to white noise, to help you drift off. It will even nudge you if you snore!

BED WITH USB

Soundasleep pillow, £50, Soundasleep

Brita’s Flow pitcher holds a hefty 8.2L of water and can sit in the fridge or on the side. It uses Maxtra+ filter cartridges, available from major retailers. Fill&Enjoy Flow, £52.50, Brita

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS 3 ALARMS EVERY HOME SHOULD HAVE

Squeeze in storage under a sloping ceiling

3 1 BURST PIPES & FLOODS Grohe Sense Guard smart water controller, £399.95, Victorian Plumbing 2 SMOKE & FIRE Smart smoke alarm, £89.99, Netatmo 3 CARBON MONOXIDE FireAngel CO-9X, £21.99, Screwfix

Take the mess out of hot glue

Possibly the dinkiest wardrobe in the world, this combination wardrobe in Chantilly White is perfect for under the stairs or in a loft room. Measuring just 130cm in height, it features five drawers and either a hanging rail or removable shelves for flexible storage you can change as your needs do. Combination wardrobe, £499, The Cotswold Company

Bosch’s new Gluey is a hot glue pen that sits in your hand like a big marker and sticks pretty much anything. Each one comes with rechargeable batteries, a USB charger and 20 glue sticks (clear, coloured and glitter) for £29.99.

Calm down baby’s bedtime Subscribe to the Moshi Twilight Sleep Stories app for soothing stories and sounds, from £5.99 a month Blast cold spots with a stylish space heater Dyson’s hot-and-cool fan will give you your money’s worth, all year round. It provides heat in winter and cool air in summer, while purifying the air, too. Hot+Cool purifying heater, £549.99, Dyson

Keep open bottles of wine for longer

FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI

Try the simplest smart-lighting option If you’re baffled by the smart-lighting systems out there, start small with a simple bulb. Lifx has a range to choose from, varying from bright whites to colour-changing options. We love the Mini Day & Dusk range, which switches on in the morning with soft whites, changes to brighter whites in the day, then returns to softer tones in the evening before dimming and switching off at bedtime. They’re compatible with Google Assistant, Apple Home Kit, Amazon Alexa and Microsoft Cortana. Mini Day & Dusk, from £27.99, Lifx

Sorry Shiraz fans, Corovin has created a gadget that means you no longer ‘have’ to finish the bottle. The Model Two delivers wine out through a small needle injected through the cork. Harmless argon gas fills the space, ensuring the wine doesn’t oxidise. Corovin Model Two, £249, Amazon

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FULLY ESCORTED EUROPEAN TOURS Experience some of the world’s best destinations with these amazing tours

CLASSICAL SPAIN SEVILLE, CÓRDOBA & GRANADA

POMPEII, CAPRI & THE BAY OF NAPLES

SEVEN DAYS FROM £499PP DEPARTURES FROM MARCH TO NOVEMBER 2019

EIGHT DAYS FROM £699PP DEPARTURES FROM APRIL TO NOVEMBER 2019

PRICES INCLUDE O Visit to medieval Ronda, one of Spain’s most spectacularly situated cities O Visit Granada’s stunning Alhambra, one of Europe’s most romantic palace fortresses O Guided tour of Seville and spend an evening sampling delicious tapas O Visit to Córdoba with a guided tour of the Mezquita probably the most beautiful mosque ever constructed entrance included O Return ﬂights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers O Six nights in three star superior and four star accommodation, with breakfast O The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

PRICES INCLUDE O Discover the ancient Roman town of Herculaneum with a local guide O Delve deeper into the mysteries of Pompeii on a guided tour and visit the Naples Archaeological Museum O Take a full day tour of the breath taking Amalﬁ coast O Spend the day visiting the stunning island of Capri O Enjoy a walking orientation tour of Sorrento O Return ﬂights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers O Seven nights in a choice of conveniently located accommodation rated three to four star superior, plus breakfast and dinner (stays at the Hotel Mediterraneo are on a bed and breakfast basis) O The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

SPAIN’S BASQUE COUNTRY, LA RIOJA & BURGOS

HIDDEN ITALY: PADOVA, VICENZA & MANTOVA

EIGHT DAYS FROM ONLY £899PP DEPARTURES FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER 2019

SIX DAYS FROM £599PP DEPARTURES FROM MARCH TO NOVEMBER 2019

PRICE INCLUDES O Enjoy a guided tour of beautiful Bayonne O Ascend to the peak of La Rhune mountain by vintage cog railway O Walking tour of Burgos and explore its outstanding Gothic cathedral O Tour one of Rioja’s most revered vineyards and enjoy a tasting O Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao O Tour of Pamplona, capital of the Basque based Kingdom of Navarra O Explore Santillana del Mar, a picture postcard medieval town O Discover San Sebastián, an alluring coastal beauty O Sample delicious pintxos at a traditional bar in San Sebastián O Marvel at the prehistoric cave paintings of UNESCO listed Altamira O Return ﬂights from a selection of regional airports, with hotel transfers O Seven nights in four star accommodation with breakfast and one dinner O The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

PRICES INCLUDE O Stay in medieval Castelfranco with fantastic views of the walled old town O Experience extraordinary Vicenza, both ancient and modern O Visit atmospheric, lakeside Mantova O Stroll through the beautiful gardens of Sigurtà Park O See the enchanting riverside town of Bassano del Grappa O Tour Villa Sandi, the palatial headquarters of a renowned Prosecco producer, and its underground cellars and enjoy a tasting afterwards O Cruise on the Brenta Canal and see the Venetian villas of the elite O Visit ancient Padova with its astonishing array of architectural styles O Return ﬂights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers O Five nights in centrally located four star accommodation, plus breakfast O The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS Best all-rounder Sage The Smart Kettle, £89, AO.com Sage products are sturdy and built to last and this kettle is no exception. It features five temperature settings (80°C to 100°C in 5° increments), each tailored to a specific drink, taking the guesswork out of making a really good cuppa. THE BEST BIT A see-through lid and side panels, plus a lengthy power cord and a removable limescale filter, all increase the kettle’s practicality.

Best for temperature specific cuppas

Make a smarter cup of tea

FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI, CHRIS HASLAM PHOTOGRAPH TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

With an app-controlled design you can use your phone to switch the kettle on from your bed, so the water’s already boiled by the time you’ve made it downstairs. This is our pick of the best smart – and super-clever – hi-tech kettles

Smeg kettle, £159.95, Smeg The ideal choice for anyone who brews more than just builder’s tea, Smeg’s latest retro design boils at seven temperatures. Built from stainless steel with a soft opening lid, it comes in eight colourways. THE BEST BIT There’s a colour option for every kitchen style.

Best for rapid boiling Signature Collection Multi-Temp jug kettle, £85, Cuisinart Thanks to its 3kW concealed element, this designer brushed stainless steel kettle boils water in a flash. Plus, you can adjust the temperature between 85-100°C. THE BEST BIT It has a cordless base, and a three-year guarantee.

Best for smart homes

Best for smart features

Smarter iKettle, £99.99, Smarter The original app-controlled kettle (iOS and Android, requires wi-fi) now comes with even more smart features including voice control, so you can just ask it to boil, while the smartphone app lets you control the temperature of the water.

Appkettle, £129.99, Andrew James Unlike most other app-controlled appliances, you can actually control the Appkettle from your smartphone using 3G and 4G when you’re out of the house – handy if you’re late home and thirsty! Plus, it senses the water level so it’ll never boil dry.

THE BEST BIT The baby formula mode is perfect for new parents.

THE BEST BIT The keep-warm function prevents wastage. FEBRUARY 2019

135

other adult and create up to four accounts for the kids (online shopping not included!)

Can you also share music streaming?

Save money on streaming with a sharing bundle We’re in love with on-demand video, music streaming and satellite TV but as costs soon mount up, here’s the lowdown on better-value deals that the whole family can benefit from We’re a household of Netflix addicts. Can sharing save us money? In the past, you could have a music or video streaming service on multiple devices, but only one could be used at once. Today the likes of Netflix has created bundle deals and sharing packages for partners, families and flatmates. It’s all perfectly legal and nobody will get kicked out mid-episode because someone else wants to watch. Your basic Netflix (Netflix.com) account (£5.99 per month) allows you to have up to five individual profiles on the same account, but you’ll need to upgrade to £7.99 per month to have it downloaded onto two devices (TV, phone or tablet). For £9.99 you can watch and download on four screens at a time – just £30 each per year.

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What about Amazon? Amazon Prime (amazon.co.uk) costs £79 per year (or £7.99 per month) and gives you access to free Amazon delivery, the Kindle online book library and Amazon Prime Instant Video for TV and film. You can also create a ‘household’ account which allows you to share benefits with one

So, sharing really is caring... where else can we save? All the main mobile networks offer a family sharing plan that can save money, especially if you’re paying the kids’ bills and want to keep on top of data use. BT Mobile (bt.com) has a 12-month SIM-only plan that belongs to the main account holder. Onto that, you can add up to four 30-day plans, all paid for on a single bill at as much as half the cost of the main account. O2 (O2.co.uk) has a similar bundle where up to 10 devices can be linked to one account.

I'm a bookworm, not a watcher though… Amazon Kindle and Nook (nookshop. co.uk) e-readers allow you to lend a title to a friend for a period of time. Audible.co.uk (also owned by Amazon) subscribers can send books to friends to download for free, even if they don't have a membership.

“

According to broadband choices.co.uk, to stop your wi-fi feeling the strain three or four people in a household should look for speeds of 35Mb and above, while five or more need from 67Mb GINEVRA BENEDETTI, ASSOCIATE EDITOR

”

FEATURE CHRIS HASLAM PHOTOGRAPH ONOKY PHOTO NONSTOP/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Choose a family package to keep everyone happy

Spotify Family (spotify.co.uk) is one of the best deals for music lovers: pay just £14.99 and enjoy five individual accounts (you have to be registered at the same address, but don’t have to live together). So instead of £9.99 each it’s less than £3 a month! Tidal (tidal.com), Deezer (deezer.com) and Apple Music (apple. com) offer similar ‘family’ deals that can save you a small fortune.

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS C hic rowing machine

EXPERT TIP

Classic Water Rower, £1,199, WaterRower (available for hire, from £11.49 per week, Row Hire Natural Fitness) Now something of a design classic (having appeared on Netflix’s House of Cards) this rowing machine (H57x W51xL209cm) is handcrafted from solid American Black Walnut and the water paddle keeps your strokes super smooth – just like on water. THE BEST BIT Stored upright, the Water Rower takes up no more space than a dining chair.

Prefer to try before you buy? Hiring equipment can make more sense if you’re not sure your good habits will stick. Try momentum hire.com or hirefitness.co.uk

High-impact cross trainer ProForm Cardio HIIT Elliptical Cross Trainer, £799, Decathlon This hybrid cross trainer combines step climbing and boxing workouts in a compact spare-room-friendly size (H132xW74xL170cm), has Bluetooth speakers, 32 workout programmes, heart rate monitors built in the grips and a 7” display. THE BEST BIT Download the iFit workout app to your tablet and exercise anywhere in the world via Google Maps.

Techy treadmill

Turn your spare room into a gym

FEATURE CHRIS HASLAM *BANANA MOON 2017

“

A recent survey revealed that we waste a staggering £558m a year on unused gym memberships. If this sounds all too familiar, skip the queues, get off the sofa and invest that cash in the latest hi-tech home gym equipment. We’ve chosen the best new designs that make getting fitter fun, whether you watch box sets as you cycle, use virtual personal trainers or compete with friends via connected apps

”

CHRIS HASLAM, TECH JOURNALIST

TechnoGym MyRun, £3,250, TechnoGym This gorgeous, minimalist design (L176xW76xH126cm) has the same running area as a gym treadmill but takes up considerably less space, while still offering all the features you need – including almost silent operation even at top speed (12.4mph!) and an app that lets you customise your training sessions. THE BEST BIT The MyRun app can select songs from your own playlists that are perfectly suited to the rhythm of your run!

Super spin bike BH Fitness SB Series SB2.6 H9173 Indoor Studio Bike, £399, John Lewis & Partners Dim the lights, turn up the music and get pedalling on this great value spin bike (H119xW52xL104cm). The 22kg flywheel is just like the models at the gym, plus built-in heart rate monitoring and LCD display show you just how hard you’re working. THE BEST BIT An adjustable seat means it will fit anyone perfectly, so no excuses!

Vibration plate Personal Power Plate, £1,295, Power Plate Small enough to stash under the bed (W70xL47.5xD15.7cm),

this vibration plate contracts your muscles as you exercise or stretch, meaning you don’t have to work out for as long to get the full benefit. Getting it right takes practice, but it could be a game changer if you’re short on time. THE BEST BIT You can do a complete, full-body workout including stretching, balancing, core and strength-building in just 15 minutes. FEBRUARY 2019

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FOOD WITH FRIENDS

Throw a posh pancake party Whip up a batch of basic batter, then take Shrove Tuesday to the next level with these simple but delicious topping ideasâ&#x20AC;¦

Ham & cheese See page 146 for recipe

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FEBRUARY 2019

SIMPLE PLEASURES

Fajita-style pancake See page 146 for recipe

Basic pancake batter Takes 20min Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 100g plain ďŹ&#x201A;our 2 eggs 300ml milk sunďŹ&#x201A;ower oil, for frying

in enough mixture to thinly cover the base, tilting the pan to encourage the batter to the edges.

1 Put the flour in a mixing

3 Cook for 30sec until the base

bowl. Whisk in the eggs and milk to a smooth batter, the consistency of double cream.

2 Heat 1tsp sunflower oil in

a 15cm non-stick pan. Pour

of the pancake is firm. Then flip over and cook for 20-30sec more.

4 Transfer the pancake to

a plate and keep warm while you make the rest.

FEBRUARY 2019

141

SIMPLE PLEASURES

IDEAL HOME TIP Make this dish meatfree by swapping the beef mince for soya or mushroom ‘mince’

Mexican mince pancakes See page 146 for recipe

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FEBRUARY 2019

Spinach & ricotta pancakes Takes 30min Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 quantity of pancake batter (see page 141) 500g frozen spinach 1 garlic clove, crushed 250g ricotta cheese pinch of nutmeg Cherry tomatoes on the vine 4tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated

1 Cook the pancakes according

to the basic recipe. Preheat the oven to 220Â°C/Fan 200Â°C/Gas 7.

2 Put the spinach and garlic

in a bowl and microwave on high for 3min, or until defrosted. Put the spinach in a sieve and squeeze out all of the liquid.

3 Return the spinach to the

bowl, season generously, then stir in the ricotta cheese and nutmeg. Spoon some of the mixture down the centre of each

pancake. Fold in the other two sides to enclose the filling.

4 Line a baking tin with

greaseproof paper. Carefully transfer the pancakes to the baking tin, along with the tomatoes. Sprinkle over the Parmesan. Bake for 15min, or until the filling is hot and the pancakes are golden. FEBRUARY 2019

143

Snickers, cream & maple syrup See page 146 for recipe

Cassis berries & crème fraîche See page 146 for recipe

Disaronno orange See page 146 for recipe

Cookies & cream See page 146 for recipe

Mojito See page 146 for recipe

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FEBRUARY 2019

SIMPLE PLEASURES

Nutella caramel pancake cake Takes 45min Serves 10 INGREDIENTS 750g self-raising ﬂour 1.2ltr skimmed milk 3 large eggs Sunﬂower oil, for frying 600ml light double cream 1tbsp vanilla extract 1tbsp golden caster sugar 397g tin caramel 200g Nutella or chocolate spread 25g pecan halves 25g marshmallows, halved

1 Put the flour, milk and eggs

into a processor. Blitz until smooth. Then, heat 2tsp sunflower oil in a shallow, non-stick 20cm frying pan. Pour

4 Lay one of the pancakes on

in enough batter to cover the base, tilting it to encourage the batter to the edges. Cook for 2min, or until bubbles appear and the base firms up.

2 Flip the pancake and cook for

1-2min, until firm. Transfer to a plate and keep warm. Cook the rest of the pancakes, stacking them between sheets of baking paper so they don’t stick together.

3 Whip the cream, vanilla

and sugar to soft peaks.

a serving plate. Spread over some of the caramel, top with another pancake, cover with chocolate spread, and repeat. Layer a fifth pancake on top, and spread over some of the cream. Continue layering pancakes, alternating between chocolate spread and caramel. Finish with a generous smothering of cream, leftover caramel and the pecans and marshmallows. Then, use a blowtorch to gently toast the marshmallows, if you like.

IDEAL HOME TIP Give this dessert a banoffee twist by adding thin slices of diagonally cut banana in between each pancake layer

FEBRUARY 2019

145

SIMPLE PLEASURES

Takes 20min Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 quantity of pancake batter (see page 141) 8 slices smoked ham 8tbsp grated Emmental cheese 1tbsp fresh chives, chopped

1 Cook the pancakes on one

side, turn (or toss), and top with a couple of slices of the ham, 2tbsp of grated cheese and a few chives. Cook until the base is firm. Slide the pancake out of the pan, fold in half to serve. Heat more oil in the pan and repeat to make three more pancakes.

Fajita-style pancake Takes 20min Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 quantity of pancake batter (see page 141) 400g cooked Piri-Piri chicken mini ﬁllets 1 red pepper, deseeded and cut into strips 400g multipack Tex-Mex dips 50g rocket

1 Follow the basic recipe to cook the pancakes.

2 Pan-fry the chicken in

a non-stick pan for about 7min, to warm through, turning as needed.

Mexican mince pancakes Takes 35min, plus cooling Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 quantity of pancake batter (see page 141) 1tbsp sunﬂower oil 500g lean beef mince 1 onion, diced 1tsp ground coriander 1tsp ground cumin ½tsp crushed chillies 400g tin chopped tomatoes 100g frozen soya beans 100g frozen sweetcorn 1tbsp tomato ketchup 2tbsp chopped fresh coriander TO SERVE 100g mature Cheddar Handful of baby plum tomatoes ¼ cucumber, chopped Handful of tortilla chips

FEBRUARY 2019

according to the basic recipe. Stack them, with a sheet of baking paper between each. Cover with a clean, dry tea towel.

2 Heat a large frying pan,

add the oil, mince and onion. Brown for a few minutes, then season and add the spices and tomatoes.

3 Simmer for 15min.

Stir in the soya beans and sweetcorn, then add the ketchup, along with 4tbsp water, and simmer for 10min. Stir in the coriander.

3 To serve, fill the pancakes 4 Heat the grill to medium-

with chicken, peppers, dips and rocket, and fold over.

146

1 Cook the pancakes

high. Lay the pancakes on the work surface and divide the mince between them. Roll them up and pack tightly in a flameproof dish. Sprinkle over the Cheddar and put under the grill for about 10min, until the cheese turns golden. Serve with salad and tortilla chips.

Cassis berries & crème fraîche Put 4tbsp raspberry jam into a pan with 4tbsp cassis and 300g frozen berries. Heat until the berries are defrosted and just warmed through. Serve on top of pancakes with a few dollops of crème fraîche.

Mojito Heat 75g golden caster sugar with the grated rind and juice of 3 limes. Splash in 3tbsp rum and 2tsp thickening granules. Heat until thickened and smooth. Add 1tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves. Serve drizzled over pancakes.

Cookies & cream Heat 150ml double cream in a pan, then add 200g chocolate pieces and 1tbsp golden syrup. Stir until melted and smooth. Top pancakes with cookies and cream ice cream, crumbled Oreo biscuits and the warm chocolate sauce.

Disaronno orange Put 75g golden caster sugar and the grated rind and juice of 2 oranges into a pan over a medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Splash in 3tbsp Disaronno and 2tsp thickening granules. Heat until smooth. Drizzle the syrup over the pancakes and serve with a dollop of orange curd and Greek yogurt.

Snickers, cream & maple syrup Scatter chunks of Snickers, a drizzle of maple syrup and a slathering of squirty cream over pancakes.

FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

Ham & cheese

IDEAL HOME PARTNERSHIP

MAKE YOUR MARK WITH ART Rich colour and exuberant design combine in artist Alexandra Gallagher’s prints, available at the new online Runway Gallery

art of the Runway Gallery family, artist Alexandra Gallagher produces paintings, street art and murals from her studio in Blackburn, Lancashire. Her current work, Birds with Birds, is a series of sophisticated and surreal pieces she has been working on over the past two years. Tell us about your artistic background. I started out working as a portrait artist, but I felt my work had become stale. About 10 years ago, I just started messing around with different things. I had small children by then — my daughter was only about two or three – and I began taking photographs of her, then creating collages out of them. How would you describe the way your creative process works? I never plan a piece of work – for some reason, when I do that, it doesn’t work! First I create the artwork digitally, using Photoshop. I use loads of cut-out images — my photographs and different vintage images — and because I can mix them up quickly on screen, it means I’m able to keep up with the ideas in my head. I’ll try a bit of this, a bit of that, and all of a sudden, it starts to tell a story. Next, I’ll take that rough Photoshop image, square it up onto the canvas, and draw it out. If it’s a mixed-media piece, I’ll have certain elements of the image printed, and then I’ll paint in all the rest. Normally, I work with oil paints for that step. Where do you look for inspiration? I’m inspired by female experiences – what it’s like to be a woman in Western society, the pressures, life stories –

Who has particularly inﬂuenced you? I’m constantly looking at art and I absorb everything I can. I have various artists I absolutely love, but Jenny Saville would be my standout inﬂuence. She makes very empowering pieces and I like how they are so in-your-face about the female form.

Flamingo Flowers limited edition print, £250, by Alexandra Gallagher

whether good or bad. My own history features, but I’m not one of those artists who puts their whole life story out there – I don’t want to be defined by that. When did the Birds with Birds series begin? It started just over two years ago when I was asked to create a wedding present for a friend. I made this piece for him and, in the end, it all seemed to click, and I decided I wanted to explore it further. Do trends influence you? I’m inspired by what’s new in fashion and design, and most definitely by interiors. I naturally absorb it all. What’s your go-to colour palette? I love and adore colour, but I don’t tend to choose garish primary colours. My work’s a bit more subtle and subdued – more classical than poppy.

How do people react to your work? I’ve received emails from people when something of mine has really spoken to them. I love having that connection with people, and to know my work has resonated like that. Alexandra Gallagher’s work is available to purchase from runway-gallery.com

CLICK & CURATE…

Owning a piece of art is as easy as clicking a button with the new online Runway Gallery. Showcasing exciting, contemporary art from 14 celebrated artists, this digital platform gives you the chance to snap up affordable, inspirational prints and artworks for your home. Visit runway-gallery.com

NEXT MONTH

Duma Arantes lives and works in her native Lisbon. Her work depicts glamorous female forms mostly the face yet never shows the entire ﬁgure, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue.

SIMPLE PLEASURES

WHAT’S FOR DINNER?

The ultimate Welsh rarebit

This month’s chilly evenings call for something comforting and quick like this posh cheese on toast

TAKES 10min SERVES 4 100ml Guinness 3tbsp double cream 300g Caerphilly or Cheddar cheese, grated 2 medium egg yolks 1tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1tsp English mustard 4 chunky slices of sourdough bread 1 garlic clove, halved

FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI RECIPE AND PHOTOGRAPH TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

1 Heat the Guinness in a

saucepan until reduced by about half. Stir in the cream, cheese, egg yolks, Worcestershire sauce and mustard, and heat gently until the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and thick.

2 Toast the bread on both sides

under a grill and rub with the cut sides of the garlic clove.

3 Spoon the cheese sauce on top

and return to the grill for a further 5min, until bubbling and golden.

FEBRUARY 2019

149

Sail away in 2019…

If you’re one of the nearly two million Brits planning to take a cruise this year, take a look at these top picks…

ruises are surging in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. Setting sail gives you a sense of freedom, and allows you to see the world in style, hassle-free. Part of the appeal is the huge variety of destinations to choose from. While

the most popular choices continue to be the Caribbean for winter sun, the Mediterranean for year-round appeal and the Norwegian fjords for their majestic beauty, a cruise holiday can also take you as far away as Japan or the Arctic. River cruises are also showing a phenomenal rise in bookings. The

Rhine, Seine, Danube and Portugal’s ‘River of Gold’ are enduringly popular, but travellers are also looking east, to destinations like the Ganges in India. Of course, you can go for all-out luxury if that’s what you’re after, but because many cruises are all-inclusive, they actually offer fantastic value for money. This is making them a popular option for multi-generational family trips, with some ships now offering family apartments or staterooms, plus activity clubs to keep children busy. In fact, cruises are now in such demand that 20 new ocean ships were launched this year. It might be just the time to set sail…

NEED TO KNOW First-time cruiser? These are the things experienced sailors never forget, for the best-ever holiday at sea…

Popular excursions sell out fast Luckily, most operators allow you to book day trips before you travel, so if there’s something you fancy, be sure to book ahead to dodge the long queues and avoid missing out.

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FEBRUARY 2019

It’s easy to get lost on a big ship! Use the first few hours on-board to explore the ship and get your bearings. Locate the restaurants, spa and fitness centre, so you don’t arrive late for any of your bookings.

Traditional ships have a dress code There’s an etiquette to cruising that you’ll either love or hate. Check what the rules are in the eateries – most have a ‘no shorts or swimwear’ rule and might require cocktail attire on formal nights.

SIMPLE PLEASURES Set sail for the sun and lots of new experiences this year

For the frazzled... INDULGE IN A SPA CRUISE Refresh your mind, revive your soul and get more active on the latest cruise experiences. If you’re a dedicated spa lover, try Viking Ocean. While most cruise lines charge extra for a spa pass, its Scandi-style facilities are free, so you can wallow in its rejuvenating Enjoy five-star pampering aboard the Viking Star

thalassotherapy pool and steam sauna as much as you like. When it comes to luxury, the Celebrity Edge ship by Celebrity Cruises should be top of your wish list. It features a rooftop garden and split-level apartments with private plunge pools, for a new standard of utter luxury at sea. Or, if you’d rather not be tied to any particular package, choose a bespoke break with MSC Cruises. Its Wellness Experience is dedicated to health and fitness, while the Aurea Experience offers a dedicated spa package and flexible dining. ‘We’re giving guests the first completely personalised, 360° wellness experience at sea,’ says Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises CEO.

For foodies... INDULGE IN FINE DINING Skip the waiting list for the hottest restaurant in town and instead, book your spot with P&O. Its cruises have a long association with celebrity chefs, such as Michelinstarred Atul Kochhar. Sample his superb Indian restaurant, Sindhu, and enjoy a meal for just £20 on P&O’s flagship, Britannia. On a handful of cruises, legendary chef Marco Pierre White even offers masterclasses in the ship’s high-tech cookery school. A week exploring the Norwegian fjords with Marco on board costs from £899pp and departs from Southampton on 17 June. You’ll also find plenty to tantalise your taste buds on Holland America ships, where you can eat your way around the world as you travel it. Plus, you can get hands-on in the kitchen. And, if you love baking, join national treasure Mary Berry on Emerald Waterways this winter. Festive Delights of the Danube, from £1,795pp.

BOOK IT P&O: 0344 338 8003, pocruises.com. Holland America: 0344 3388605, hollandamerica.com. Emerald Waterways: 0808 250 8352, emeraldwaterways.co.uk Watch cookery demos aboard Holland America

BOOK IT Viking Ocean: 0800 458 690, vikingcruises.co.uk. Celebrity Cruises: 0845 163 9463, celebrity cruises.co.uk. MSC Cruises: 020 3426 3010, msccruises.co.uk FEBRUARY 2019

151

SIMPLE PLEASURES

For thrill seekers... SAIL TO THE MIDDLE EAST Indulge your inner explorer on an experience-led cruise. P&O Cruises have based a ship in the Middle East for the first time, and will sail five 10-night cruises between January and April this year, departing from Dubai. The trips aboard Oceana start at £899pp for an inside cabin. Excursions include everything from a desert safari, where you can go camel riding and sand-boarding, followed by a barbecue dinner and belly dancing performance around the campfire. You could even take flight in a seaplane over Abu Dhabi. Alternatively, turn the heat right down and embark on an epic

Enjoy the sights of Dubai with P&O Cruises

expedition to Antarctica. Explore the coldest, driest and highest continent on the planet with a voyage from South America to Antarctica with Hurtigruten. Join a Christmas adventure this December and see in the New Year a little differently. Prices start at £4,654pp.

Soak up the sun and stunning skylines

BOOK IT P&O: 0344 338 8003, pocruises.com. Hurtigruten: 020 3131 5839, hurtigruten.co.uk

Cruise the old-fashioned way on a tall ship

Which season is best to sail?

For a complete break... JUMP ON BOARD A TALL SHIP If you want to start your holiday more leisurely than you would dealing with baggage allowances and long security queues at an airport, try a no-fly cruise that departs from the UK. Set sail from Southampton and you can choose from a range of must-see destinations. You can even head as far afield as the exotic Caribbean islands for a slice of blissful, sunsoaked luxury. Cunard offers a 26-night cruise to the Caribbean via New York, departing and

152

FEBRUARY 2019

returning from Southampton, with prices starting at £3,789pp. But if your idea of relaxation is doing something completely different, hop on board a tall-ship cruise. Riviera Travel offers a 13-night itinerary travelling from Venice to Rome on The Royal Clipper. Prices start at £2,999pp.

BOOK IT Cunard: 0344 338 8648, cunard.co.uk. Riviera Travel: 01283 742348, riviera.co.uk

X SPRING Greece, Italy, Spain and Croatia are ideal spring destinations, with the fresh air and pleasant temperatures making it comfortable to stroll around the ancient sites. X SUMMER Once the snow has melted, the Norwegian fjords look particularly beautiful. Explore villages by the waterside, or hike up Pulpit Rock, 604m above Lysefjord, for great views. X AUTUMN Enjoy the fall in Canada and New England, or choose an Italian escape taking in the beautiful cities of Venice, Rome and Florence. X WINTER Tired of the cold? Head for the Caribbean, UAE or the Canary Islands to get reunited with the sun.

PHOTOGRAPHS ALAMY

Sleep in style on the Royal Clipper

Worldwide Adventures selected for you!

Kenya Grand Safari – Stay at Treetops

India – Tigers & The Taj Mahal

9 days from £2,299pp Flying from an airport near you, Departs February 2019 – November 2020 Enjoy unforgettable close-up encounters with wildlife, the wonders of the forested highlands and the plains of the Maasai Mara.

Tour highlights t Enjoy three game drives in the Samburu National Reserve

t t t t

Stay in Treetops game lodge

Fully escorted by experienced drivers and friendly safari guides

Seven nights’ accommodation in full-board game lodges, breakfast, lunch in Nairobi, plus one night on the aircraft, return flights and transfers

Lake Nakuru National Park Visit to a Maasai village Travel by safari minibuses

10 days from £1,199pp Flying from an airport near you, Departs January 2019 – November 2020 Explore northern India’s greatest cities in this perfect introduction to one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.

Tour highlights t Discover Old and New Delhi t t Visit Amber Fort t t See the ‘Palace of the Winds’ t Go in search of Ranthambhore’s t tigers on two included safaris t See Chand Baori stepwell t Stay in the resort of Vanaashrya t Enjoy a guided tour of Agra

Take a visit to the incomparable Taj Mahal Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager Eight nights’ half-board hotel accommodation with six lunches, plus one night on the aircraft, return flights and transfers

Elvis Presley’s Memphis New Orleans & Nashville

Five-Star Alaska Cruise & the Canadian Rockies

9 days from £1,399pp Flying from an airport near you, Departs February 2019 – December 2020

16 days from £2,999pp Flying from an airport near you, Departs May 2019 – September 2019

Journey through America’s musical heartland, from the birthplace of jazz and the cradle of rock ‘n’ roll, to the capital of Country Music.

Enjoy an unforgettable tour and cruise showcasing some of North America’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

Tour highlights t Explore Montgomery and Tupelo t t Journey through the sleepy countryside of Alabama t t Take in the exhilarating ‘French Quarter’ t t Spend two nights at the Guest

Tour highlights t A seven-night cruise on board

HouseTM at Graceland, right next to Elvis’ famous mansion

Call 0330

Discover Nashville, world capital of Country Music Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager Seven nights’ room-only touring hotel accommodation, plus one night on the aircraft, return flights and transfers

160 7885 quoting IDH

a five-star Holland America line on a full-board basis exploring UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay, the Inside Passage and visits to Juneau, remote Skagway and colourful Ketchikan Explore Banff and Vancouver

t t t

Enjoy a tour on the Icefields Parkway stopping in Jasper Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager Seven nights’ hotel accommodation, one night on the aircraft, return flights and transfers

or visit idh.newmarketholidays.co.uk

These holidays are operated by, and your resulting contract will be with, Newmarket Holidays Ltd. ABTA V7812. ATOL PROTECTED 2325 a company wholly independent of Ideal Home published by TI Media Limited. Price is based on two people sharing a twin room. Single supplement applies. Prices correct at time of going to print. Please check online for latest prices and availability.

14 Gold + 9 Silver + 3 Bronze

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Abstract House abstracthouse.com Affordable Art Fair 020 8246 4848 affordableartfair.com After Noah 020 7359 4281 afternoah.com Albert & Moo 07789 768265 albertandmoo.com Also Home 01483 608611 alsohome.com Amara 0800 587 7645 amara.com Amazon amazon.co.uk Andrew James andrewjamesworldwide.com Ao.com 0344 324 9222 Appkettle myappkettle.com Argos 0345 640 2020 argos.co.uk Artﬁnder 0800 133 7434 artﬁnder.com Artisanti 0345 259 1410 artisanti.com Att Pynta attpynta.com Audenza 0116 298 6393 audenza.com B&Q 0333 014 3098 diy.com Baa Stool 01824 790882 baastool.co.uk Barker and Stonehouse 0333 920 1119 barkerandstonehouse.co.uk Barton Croft bartoncroft.com Bathroom Takeaway 0333 305 8200 bathroomtakeaway.co.uk Bedfolk bedfolk.com Bensons for Beds 0330 124 1100 bensonsforbeds.co.uk Bert & May 020 3744 0776 bertandmay.com Black by Design 01889 502716 black-by-design.co.uk Block 01503 230003 blockdesign.co.uk Bosch 0344 892 8979 bosch-home.co.uk Brintons 0800 505055 brintons.co.uk Brissi 020 7229 2323 brissi.com Brita brita.co.uk British Ceramic Tile 01626 834774 britishceramictile.com Button & Sprung 03333 201801 buttonandsprung.com Caesarstone 01706 863600 caesarstone.co.uk Carpetright 0330 333 3444 carpetright.co.uk Celtic & Co 0844 557 8877 celticandco.com Ceramica Blue 020 7727 0288 ceramicablue.co.uk Clarke & Clarke 01706 242010 clarke-clarke.com Clippings 020 3808 9449 clippings.com Cole & Son 020 8442 8844 cole-and-son.com

Cox & Cox 0330 333 2123 coxandcox.co.uk Crosswater 0345 873 8840 crosswater.co.uk Crown 0330 024 0281 crownpaints.co.uk Cuckooland 01305 231231 cuckooland.com Cuisinart 0870 240 6902 cuisinart.co.uk Cult Furniture 020 8185 6960 cultfurniture.com Cuprinol 0333 222 7171 cuprinol.co.uk Custom Fronts 01273 809 492 customfronts.co.uk Dar Lighting 01295 672200 darlighting.co.uk Debenhams 0344 800 8877 debenhams.com Decathlon 020 7394 2000 decathlon.co.uk Desenio 0046 8120 58700 desenio.co.uk Design Vintage 01243 573852 designvintage.co.uk Designer Wallpapers 0800 043 4798 designerwallpapers.co.uk DFS 0808 271 6297 dfs.co.uk Distinctify 020 3198 7218 distinctify.com DIY Kitchens diy-kitchens.com Dowsing & Reynolds 0113 819 9985 dowsingandreynolds.com Drench drench.co.uk Drummonds 020 7376 4499 drummonds-uk.com Dulux 0333 222 7171 dulux.co.uk Dunelm 0345 165 6565 dunelm.com Dwell 0845 675 9090 dwell.co.uk Dyson 0800 298 0298 dyson.co.uk East Coast Eco Systems 0800 690 6977 eastcoastecosystems.co.uk eBay ebay.co.uk Empire Build 020 8150 9567 empire-build.co.uk Entre Les Murs entrelesmurs.com Etsy etsy.com Ex.T ex-t.com Farrow & Ball 01202 876141 farrow-ball.com Ferm Living fermliving.com 1stdibs 1stdibs.com Frank Key 0115 9208 208 frank-key.co.uk French Connection Home 0333 400 3285 frenchconnection.com Furniture Village 0800 804 8879 furniturevillage.co.uk Garden Trading 01993 845559 gardentrading.co.uk George Home 0800 952 0101 george.com

E F

Geyser.co.uk 01204 695387 Graham and Green 01225 418200 grahamandgreen.co.uk Granit Architects granit.co.uk Great Little Trading Company 0844 848 6000 gltc.co.uk H&M Home 0344 736 9000 hm.com Habitat 0344 499 4686 habitat.co.uk Hannah Turner Ceramics 0117 942 1761 hannahturner.co.uk Harlequin 020 3457 5862 stylelibrary.com/harlequin Harvey Jones 0800 389 6938 harveyjones.com Heal’s 0333 212 1915 heals.com Hello Flora 07974 199 146 helloflora.co.uk Homebase 0345 077 8888 homebase.co.uk HomeSense 01923 473561 homesense.com Hoppy hoppy.co.uk Houseology 0330 363 0330 houseology.com Hurn & Hurn 01603 559 250 hurnandhurn.com Ian Snow 01271 858649 iansnow.com Ikea 020 3645 0000 ikea.co.uk Illuminate Vintage illuminatevintage.com Jameson Art Gallery 00 33 6386 40693 J-me 020 7928 8828 j-me.com John Lewis & Partners 0345 604 9049 johnlewis.com JoJo Maman Bebe 0871 423 5656 jojomamanbebe.co.uk Jordan’s Woodfloor Warehouse jordanwoodfloors.co.uk Juniqe 033 0777 1297 juniqe.co.uk Kelly Hoppen 020 3701 9333 kellyhoppen.com Kesseler kesseler.co.uk Konishi Gaffney Architects 0131 555 4939 konishigaffney.com La Redoute 0800 096 6888 laredoute.co.uk Le Boutik Hotel leboutikhotel.com Le Creuset 0800 373792 lecreuset.co.uk Lewes Flea Market 01273 480328 flea-markets.co.uk Life Kitchens 020 3972 0150 life-kitchens.co.uk Lifx uk.lifx.com Ligne Roset 020 7323 1248 ligne-roset.co.uk Little Greene 0845 880 5855 littlegreene.com Loaf 0345 468 0697 loaf.com Lombok 020 7736 5171 lombok.co.uk LSA International 01932 789721 lsa-international.com

Made.com 0344 257 1888 Maisons du Monde 0808 234 2172 maisonsdumonde.com Mandarin Stone 01600 715444 mandarinstone.com Margrasil 01403 710485 margrasil.co.uk Marimekko 020 7486 6454 marimekko.com Mark Smith Glazing 0131 669 9898 marksmithglazing.com Marks & Spencer 0333 014 8000 marksandspencer.com Martin Moore 0845 180 0015 martinmoore.com Masterclass Kitchens 01443 449499 masterclasskitchens.co.uk Matalan 0333 004 4444 matalan.co.uk Meli Meli Home melimelihome.se Mirrors and Glass UK . mirrorsandglass.co.uk/shop MissPrint 01277 350581 missprint.co.uk Mode 0844 463 8034 mode.co.uk Modern Rugs 01388 663738 modern-rugs.co.uk Moshi Twilight makebedtimeadream.com Murmur 0333 200 7331 murmur.co.uk Mustard Made mustardmade.co.uk My Furniture 0800 092 1636 my-furniture.com Myakka 0345 460 3122 myakka.co.uk Naken Interiors 01986 781663 naken.co.uk Neptune 01793 427300 neptune.com Nest.co.uk 0114 243 3000 Netatmo netatmo.com Next Home 0333 777 8000 next.co.uk Nkuku 0333 240 0155 nkuku.com notonthehighstreet.com 020 3318 5115 Nubie 01825 724160 nubie.co.uk Oak Furniture Land 0800 440 2254 oakfurnitureland.co.uk Oliver Bonas 020 8974 0110 oliverbonas.com Only Oilcloths 01772 790017 onlyoilcloths.co.uk Original BTC 020 7351 2130 originalbtc.com Paint & Paper Library 0845 880 5844 paintandpaperlibrary.com Pale & Interesting 01797 344077 paleandinteresting.com Perch & Parrow 020 8629 1166 perchandparrow.com

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STOCKISTS

EDITORIAL

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Q R

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BE CANDLE SAFE Enjoy the special touch that candles add to your home; but take care to use them safely: Always place lit candles well away from foliage, furniture, curtains and soft furnishings, and always out of draughts ● Keep candles out of reach of children and pets ● Never leave a burning candle unattended ● Keep candles away from hair and clothing ● Always place candles upright in suitable holders that can’t easily fall over ● Always be sure that candles are properly extinguished

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Vanessa Richmond 020 3148 7335 GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR Georgia Hibberdine 020 3148 7342 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Heather Young 020 3148 7326 HOMES CONTENT TEAM EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Rhoda Parry 020 3148 7180 COMMERCIAL EDITORIAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Jane Akers 020 3148 7313 ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ginevra Benedetti 020 3148 7347 GROUP CHIEF SUB-EDITOR/PRODUCTION EDITOR Sarah Farley 020 3148 7189 DECORATING EDITOR Nicky Phillips 020 3148 7346 STYLE EDITOR Michela Colling 020 3148 7355 HOUSES EDITOR Ruth Corbett 020 3148 7330 SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR Stephanie Durrant 020 3148 6218 FEATURES EDITOR Holly Walsh 020 3148 7353 HEAD OF SUBS OPERATIONS Maxine Clarke 020 3148 7136 HUB CHIEF SUB-EDITOR Amy Hodge 020 3148 7118 DEPUTY CHIEF SUB-EDITOR Jennie Filer SUB-EDITOR Chloe Hay HEAD OF ART OPERATIONS Alison Walter 020 3148 7113 DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR Emma Jackson 020 3148 7338 SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Bennewitz 020 3148 7343 GENERAL ENQUIRIES Sally Dominic 020 3148 7154

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FEBRUARY 2019

161

A SPACE OF MY OWN

‘My caravan is where I can escape & dream’

Susy’s grandson loves it here

When she needs time and space alone to think – or play dens with her grandson – writer Susy McPhee escapes to her personal hideaway in the garden

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FEBRUARY 2019

For Susy, the gypsy caravan is a place to play and let her imagination run wild

I leave my phone in the house when I “ come down here, and spend time watching the hares and listening to the birds ”

escape and dream. I leave my phone back up at the house and think about where the plot of my latest book is going. Outside the window, I can watch hares in the fields and listen to the birds. Inside, it’s as if my characters are here with me. It’s also a wonderful place to spend time with my four-year-old grandson,

Conan. He fell in love with the caravan the first time he saw it and we play imaginary games here every time he visits. Life wouldn’t be the same without my gypsy caravan. It would be missing a sense of magic. Here, more than anywhere else, it feels like anything can happen.’

FEATURE ANDRÉA CHILDS PHOTOGRAPHS TOBY CRAWFORD

usy, 58, lives in Crieﬀ, near Perth, with her husband Iain and their 18-year-old foster son, Ronan. The couple also have three grown-up daughters, who have now left home. ‘Having a gypsy caravan in the garden is so bonkers! I only have to climb inside to feel like my imagination could take me anywhere. It’s the authenticity of the caravan that initially appealed to me – it’s as if its stories are painted on the wood and woven into the fabric. I bought it on eBay in 2017 for £2,600 and before that it had been lived in by generations of travellers. We drove to Gloucestershire to collect it, hauling it home to Scotland on a trailer. We had to get permission to tow it across two fields, then take down the fence to get it into our garden. I don’t think it will ever move again, but it’s bringing a lot of pleasure in its retirement. The caravan needed a little love, but I wanted to keep it a bit rustic, so I’ve replaced the fabric that lines the inside, kept the bench seating and put in a wood-burning stove. It has a bed that opens up and we did a bit of carpentry to turn it into a small double. Iain and I slept here on our wedding anniversary. We have a studio where I write, so the caravan is simply a place to

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