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L I V E

T H E

L I F E . . . L O V E

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& INTERIORS

Spring feeling Fresh & easy décor ideas, from blush pink rooms to welcoming hallways & trusty kitchen tables LIVING THE GOOD LIFE

READER HOME AWARDS SEE INSIDE THE WINNING HOUSES

Celebrating EASTER

GORGEOUS CRAFTS TO MAKE & GIVE ENTERTAIN FRIENDS WITH A SPECIAL MENU PLUS PAULA SUTTON’S FAMILY EASTER EGG HUNT

NEW SECTION: SPECIAL THINGS TO SEE, SHARE & DO EVERY DAY

Home in the

COUNTRY

Y COLOURFUL FARMHOUSE Y COSY FLINT COTTAGE Y MINDFUL MODERN HOME Y ECO CABIN ON THE MOORS

THE HOME OF

modern country April 2022

INTERIORS & INSPIRATION 10 APRIL Things that make us happy 15 • MAKE A NOTE What to see, share, do and enjoy every day 19 DESIGNER OF THE MONTH Ceramicist Emma Alington 66 • ROOM SERVICE The influence of country house hotels on interiors 72 • PRETTY IN PINK Subtle, warm and earthy shades 78 STYLE EDIT Occasional chairs 80 • ROOM ELEMENTS Smart and practical hallway storage ideas 88 • BUYING GUIDE Sturdy kitchen tables for the heart of the home 90 • MAKE A HOUSE A HOME Exquisite Easter craft ideas for spring-time decorative touches 96 DRESS TO IMPRESS Practical and beautiful window blinds 101 THE COUNTRY DECORATOR Emma Sims Hilditch on bringing character to a modern space

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105 KITCHEN PROJECT Striking colour and elegant proportions

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COUNTRY HOMES 24 • LANCASHIRE NEW BUILD Relaxed Scandi-style architecture, natural materials and mindful design have created a serene home that’s good for the soul

110 RENOVATE & REPAIR Building a self-contained annexe

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34 • PEAK DISTRICT FARMHOUSE Bold and inspiring colour gives the renovated interiors of this artist’s 17th-century country abode vibrant personality

• ON THE COVER

44 • WILTSHIRE VILLAGE HOUSE A unique and historic home has been remodelled to create relaxed spaces filled with vintage finds, perfect for 21st-century family life 52 • CORNISH CABIN This retreat on the edge of Bodmin Moor is both cosy and eco-friendly, and offers a warm welcome to visitors

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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52

luxurious rustic retreats nestled in the Norfolk countryside 146

A DAY IN THE COUNTRY WITH... musician Jack Savoretti and artist Jemma Powell

GARDENS 131 LATE SPRING BULBS Fill your garden, pots and patio with vibrantly coloured blooms that will take you into summer

118 SEASONAL FOOD 122 • LUNCH WITH FRIENDS Celebrate Easter with Katie and Giancarlo Caldesi’s rustic feast, with classic roasted chicken and delectable mini pavlovas

LIFESTYLE

122 • ON THE COVER

SUBSCRIBE T O D AY

60

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS Lino printer Kiran Ravilious is inspired by both East and West to create exquisite botanical designs for textiles and stationery

116 IN THE COUNTRY WITH Clodagh McKenna shares stories about life at her sustainable Hampshire property

121 COUNTRY HARVEST Inspiration from nature’s larder 128 SOW GROW SHOW What to plant and do in the garden this month 141 MY COUNTRY PASSION Designer Claire Holland shares her passion for pressing flowers, and the artwork she creates 138 4

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

PRETTY PERGOLAS Create a shady bower covered by scented climbers with one of these elegant garden features

JUST FOR YOU 70

SUBSCRIBE TO COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS Discover our latest offers and never miss an issue

21 • THE JOYFUL HOME Paula Sutton on Easter traditions and rituals in her home

118 KEEPING CHICKENS How to care for a happy flock and enjoy fresh eggs every day

Subscribe to Country Homes & Interiors today from only £37.50! T&Cs apply.

See page 70 for details.

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A WEEKEND AWAY AT... Settle,

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EDITOR’S LETTER

S

eeing inside the homes we feature, and the care and love the owners have put into them, is always a highlight of my job. But this month is even more special, as we’re featuring the Winners and Runners-up from our Reader Home Awards. The size and age of each property is very different, and they’re decorated in a Why not make one of our spring craft ideas for Easter?

variety of styles, but they are all quintessentially country homes, full of warmth, character and charm. Head on over to take a look, from page 23.

If you’re inspired to refresh your own interiors, we have lots of ideas to help you get started. Think about a subtle and luminous shade of pink for a room revamp (page 72), discover what it takes to create a stylish and practical hallway (page 80) and find out how blinds can transform your interiors (page 96). And if you’re looking for a smaller decorative project, our beautiful Easter crafts can be made in an afternoon (page 90).

Happy Easter!

Andréa x This month I’m... chocolate hunting!

Nibbling at the Ocean egg and raising funds for Ocean Giants charity, chococo.co.uk

Indulging in Fiasconaro x Dolce & Gabbana’s Colomba cake, souschef.co.uk

Enjoying hand-crafted gems from the Chocolatiers Collection box, art-chocolat.com

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Things that make us happy...

APRIL

Enjoying a therapeutic afternoon of flower arranging with seasonal favourites fresh from the garden.

Pre-lit evergreen wreath, £45; whitewashed rattan tray, £20; Parham ceramic vase, £35; Geranium leaf collection handwash, £16; hand lotion, £18; cross-back linen apron, £55, all The White Company

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

C O U N T R Y D AY S

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Our picks for you 1 Scattering seats with infectious energy! The Hemingway cushion in Yellow, £95, Evie & Skye 2 Hand-painted deliveries from the Easter Bunny.

Cluckington Palace personalised wooden eggs, from £19.99, The Dartmoor Artist 3 Cheerful pattern pops with artisanal ceramics. Olivia fruit bowl, £78, Ibbi Direct 4 A restorative brew with added sunshine.

Let in the Sun mug, £22, Emma Bridgewater 5 Welcoming friendly chirpers. Birdhouse, £30, Cox & Cox 6 Decorating walls with fluttering pretties.

Origami cloud of butterflies kit, £14.95, Cambridge Imprint 7 Indulging in a slice of squidge factor post Easter lunch feasting! Podge love seat in Mellow Yellow clever laundered linen, £1,445, Loaf 8 Causing waves of excitement at dinner time.

Wave napkin, £58 for four, Sarah.K

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C O U N T R Y D AY S

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Our picks for you 9 Whimsical, woven silhouettes for playful spring interiors. Large scalloped rattan lampshade, £150, Maison Maison Design 10 Relaxing with wafting scents evocative of blooming sun-dappled meadows. Lemongrass soy candle, £15, Vegan Bunny 11 Getting crafty making a dried flower wreath to welcome guests.

DIY BloomRing in Green, £18.95, BloomPost 12 Hand-thrown stoneware for the ultimate Easter eggs and soldiers brunch. Egg cups, £28 for two, Rebecca Williams 13 Nature interpreted in statement-making, modern forms. Eferi print in Ochre, £295 a pair, Oka 14 Sharing the joy of the season with charming characters and delicious treats. A Taste of Easter hamper, £55, Bettys 15 Layering up geometrics in Scandi-boho style.

Diamond twill throw in Yellow, £30, Fy!

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FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

COUNTRY HIGHLIGHTS

Make a note

SPECIAL THINGS TO SEE, SHARE, DO AND ENJOY EVERY DAY

Create an Easter table centrepiece by filling a basket with a clutch of real eggs such as duck, hen, quail and Bluebell Araucana eggs, and surround with bud vases of freshly picked foliage

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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COUNTRY HIGHLIGHTS

KEEP CALM AND DRINK TEA In a bid to combat food waste and encourage mindful moments, Jessica Nester founded Tea in the Moment – a unique tea brand that uses the discarded shells of cacao beans to create a tasty range of sugar and caffeine-free infusions. ‘The name represents the need to pause, reflect and bring yourself back to the present,’ she says. There are seven flavours, including mint, rose and chai, £6.99 per 50g box of loose-leaf tea.

CHOOSE A CHIC DOG BED Sustainable brand Settle has created a range of interiorinspired designs for pooches that are as cool as they are comfy. Removable covers allow for easy updating, with the added practicality of being machine-washable for fresh ‘sheets’ every time. We ORYH WKH ŴHFNHG SDWWHUQ RQ Terrazzo, from £124 for small, settlebeds.com.

Did you know

OVER 7 MILLION MATTRESSES ARE SENT TO LANDFILL EVERY YEAR? BUTTON & SPRUNG HAS LAUNCHED A NEW COLLECTION WITH 100% NATURAL FILLINGS, DESIGNED TO BE FULLY RECYCLABLE AT THE END OF THEIR LIFE. AND THEY’RE SUPER-COMFY, TOO.

SEW EASY Enjoy the calming effect of embroidery and create something beautiful with a EHJLQQHU IULHQGO\ NLW from The Artist’s Lab (all supplies included). We love WKH QHZ ŴRUDO designs, from £22, WKHDUWLVWVODE FR XN

LOUNGE IN LOVELINESS Sleepy Doe specialises in organic sleepwear collections for women and children. From pyjamas and leggings to babygrows and bedding, each piece features beautiful hand-drawn prints in soft shades and is made from soft organic cotton to help you sleep well – and look good while doing so.

Match with your little ones in Dancing Floral PJs, available in both adult (£60) and child (£32) sizes, and baby sleepsuits (£24), too, sleepydoe.com.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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CREATE BESPOKE FURNITURE Annie Sloan has launched a beautiful collection of botanical-inspired découpage papers in collaboration with the Royal Horticultural Society. ‘My aim was to create an easy way for everyone – beginner or expert – to transform their interiors into works of art,’ the designer says. With that in mind, all the hard work has been done for you; decorative flowers and wildlife in harmonious colours are ready to be cut out, arranged and stuck onto walls or furniture for a Bloomsbury-inspired aesthetic, £11.95 for two large sheets, anniesloan.com.

SAVE THE BEES We all know how important bees are, so if you see one struggling, give it a helping hand with the innovative Revival Kit from Beevive. The keychain holds a refillable bottle of specially formulated sugar syrup; a few sips will soon have them buzzing.

From £10.99, beevive.com.

CONSIDER A FLOWERING FUTURE If earning a living from growing flowers is your dream, sign up to this workshop hosted by florist and eco flower farmer, Georgia Newbery.

Includes a tour of her Somerset farm, as well as strategies, advice and tips.

26 April from 10am-3pm, £250 with lunch, commonfarmflowers.com.

TAKE POSITIVE STEPS From fresh air and fitness to socialising and screen breaks, there’s no doubt that walking outdoors is good for us. In Mindful Walking (£7.99, CICO Books), author Alice Peck explains how to take it one step further – both literally and figuratively. With easy meditations, plus ideas and inspiration on how to take a more mindful approach to walking, she shows how this simple act can be truly life changing.

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Special delivery SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS AND REDUCE PLASTIC WASTE BY HAVING FRESH MILK (AS WELL AS OTHER GROCERY STAPLES) DELIVERED DIRECT TO YOUR DOOR BY THE MODERN MILKMAN. MANAGE ORDERS EASILY ON THE APP OR WEBSITE UP TO 8PM THE NIGHT BEFORE DELIVERY, THEMODERNMILKMAN.CO.UK.

COUNTRY HIGHLIGHTS

FEATURE TARA KING PHOTOGRAPHS (OPENING SHOT) FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

Designer of the month

Emma Alington

The ceramics designer shares her creative process for producing handmade pieces that are both beautiful and functional

E

mma Alington has been creating beautiful, hand-thrown ceramics since 2013. Once an old Scout hut, her Berkshire studio’s rustic walls are covered with inspirational imagery, ‘like an ever-changing mood board’.

Following fashion’s foray with scallop patterns, her new collection features decorative ric-rac trims.

Talk us through the design process. ‘I’m a 3D thinker, so everything takes shape on the potter’s wheel. My ideas for new forms typically come from things that I love and use around my home already. Once I’ve created a shape, I then ensure it ticks all the functionality boxes before having plaster moulds made, followed by initial slip casts. Batches are made in bone china at the factory in Stoke- on-Trent, then sent to us at the studio to decorate.

I love experimenting with different clays and glazes.’

Tell us a little bit about your new Black Scallop collection. ‘I wanted something a little bolder than my Dots and Stripes range. The pattern was created using ink and a brush on paper, so it has a lovely freehand feel. It’s important to me to keep a slight ripple in each ceramic shape as a nod to the hand-thrown process, so the two tie in beautifully together.’

What’s your design ethos? ‘Beauty and function combined with quality craftsmanship. There’s a growing scene of British-made ceramics and it’s exciting to be a part of it –- it’s important to keep the heritage alive.’

Sum up your style in three words.

‘Timeless, tactile and elegant.‘ COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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C O U N T R Y D AY S

PAULA SUTTON

The joyful home EASTER BRINGS TRADITIONS, RITUALS AND LOTS AND LOTS OF CHOCOLATE TO PAULA’S HOME

s with many things in life, there were two sides to the coin when it came to celebrating Easter during my youth. There was the strict convent school side, where nuns would guide my moral learning towards the strictest of the season’s sensibilities – in short, making sure that it didn’t begin and end with thoughts of cakes, feasting and the giving of chocolate eggs.

A

The fun part happened at home – with the gravitas of cakes, feasting and the giving of chocolate eggs!

These days my Easter celebrations at Hill House are a mixture of ceremony and celebration. There’s the joy of being among family and friends, and a feeling of gratitude for the imminent onset of spring and the burgeoning beauty that comes with this time of year.

PHOTOGRAPHS HILL HOUSE VINTAGE

Easter marks the point at which I begin to consider eating outside – tentatively so, as it’s often a period marked by a complex mix of weather fronts. I remember arriving at my parents-in-law one Easter weekend in the midst of a sudden and unexpected heatwave. We woke up VJG PGZV FC[ VQ UGG NCTIG ƃCMGU QH UPQY FGUEGPFKPI HTQO clear blue skies and settling heavily on the East Sussex countryside. Easter weather is rather like a pick and mix – you never know what you’re going to get.

I cannot help but be drawn to traditions at Easter.

Wrapped up in my love of home, our traditions are repeated year in, year out, and have often been passed down, perhaps readjusted to accommodate changing times and altered tastes. It starts with the making of my Easter wreath, using items gathered and foraged from around my garden. The ‘children’ all still expect their eggs to be deposited outside their bedrooms by the Easter Bunny – the only difference being that the cocoa content has increased with age!

We are sticklers for a roast leg of lamb, cooked in red wine with a liberal sprinkling of fresh rosemary and garlic from the garden, cloves from my parents in the Caribbean, and honey from a local farm shop. Perfectly roasted potatoes are my husband’s speciality (although he conveniently HQTIGVU YJQ VCWIJV JKO VJG ƃWHƂPI VGEJPKSWG 6JG CKO KU HQT ƃWHH[ CPF ETWPEJ[ CV VJG UCOG VKOG CPF EQXGTGF KP OKPV

Paula loves to embrace the traditions of Easter

LGNN[ OG OKPV sauce (everyone QPG GNUG CPF ITCX[ Honey-glazed carrots and seasonal veg are a natural accompaniment, as is a table adorned with vases of daffodils and tulips, or aged pots of crocus and hyacinth.

Baking favourite seasonal recipes

My seasonal baking goes into overdrive at Easter. I bake a traditional Simnel cake topped with its 11 balls of marzipan.

Then there are cupcakes slathered in XCPKNNC DWVVGTETGCO ƂPKUJGF YKVJ C EJQEQNCVG PGUV ƂNNGF with a handful of mini pastel-coloured chocolate eggs.

Games are essential. I have written riddles for an Easter egg hunt in the garden since the children were little.

Often with their cousins of a similar age, they have hunted through booby traps and red herrings, arranged artfully around the garden, in pursuit of hidden chocolate eggs. It’s a delight that these traditions stay with us, and I imagine that my children will do the same things with their own children. For there lies the comfort of tradition and ritual.

They are ever present, yet revised, renewed and reborn over time, which is a particularly poignant thought at Easter.

NEXT MONTH

X Paula shares her love of vintage furniture X Follow her on Instagram @hillhousevintage COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

21

CH&I READER HOME AWARDS 2021

Meet our winners!

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED OUR READER HOME AWARDS. AFTER LOOKING THROUGH A HOST OF INSPIRING IMAGES, WE’RE THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE OUR WINNERS. CONGRATULATIONS!

WINNER BEST NEW-BUILD HOME

WINNER BEST RURAL RENOVATION

WOOD AND STONE THREE-BEDROOM LANCASHIRE HOME

PEAK DISTRICT FARMHOUSE, DATING BACK TO 1660

BUILT BY LISA AND DAVID WALLACE

OWNERS NELLIE AND ANDY SHEPHERD

‘We loved the calm, Scandi-inspired design of the house, and how the couple’s passions are brought to life in its architecture, from Lisa’s reiki room to the windows built by carpenter David.’

Andréa Childs, Editor

‘We loved the holistic way Nellie approached her farmhouse renovation, where colour, artworks, original features and even the views through the windows all play their part.’

Karen Darlow, Houses Editor

RUNNER-UP BEST NEW-BUILD HOME

RUNNER-UP BEST RURAL RENOVATION

SUSTAINABLE ONE-BEDROOM CABIN IN CORNWALL

HISTORIC WILTSHIRE VILLAGE HOUSE

BUILT BY SUE AND STEVE OSMOND

OWNERS SAM DASCOMBE AND JEREMY FLINDALL

‘The holiday cabin may be new, but Sue Osmond has ensured it looks as though it’s been part of the landscape for years. We love the way she’s used salvaged materials from an old summerhouse and barn to add character to the new space.’

Vivienne Ayers, Houses Editor

‘Sam and Jeremy fully met the challenge of turning a higgledy-piggledy period property, with parts built in the 16th, 17th and 20th centuries, into a cohesive and cosy family home. Just beautiful.’

Andréa Childs, Editor

CH&I WINNER BEST NEWBUILD HOME 2021

HEALING SPACE Combining mindfulness ideas and natural materials, this country house, built by Lisa and David Wallace, exudes beauty, calm and serenity 24

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

LANCASHIRE NEW BUILD

Kitchen Open-plan living and bringing the outside in were important to Lisa when designing the kitchen. The kitchen was handmade by David. Cabinets and end wall painted in Grey Moss by Little Greene. Lights above island, Nkuku. Wooden chandelier, Wolf Home

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Hallway This space has a serene and calm feel. Lisa chose the colour because she wanted the house to resemble the shades of the pebbles on a beach. Walls painted in French Grey, Little Greene.

Ceiling light, Vaunt

LANCASHIRE NEW BUILD

I

t was always our dream to design a house ourselves and build it from the ground up,’ says Lisa Wallace of the beautiful home she and husband David have constructed.

For Lisa, it was important to create a calm and unique home that centred around family life, with a work space nearby to give a good work-life balance in her job as a reiki practitioner.

Lisa and David had searched for years for land so that they could fulfil their dream. Eventually in 2019, the perfect plot with planning permission came up for sale down a nearby rural lane and Lisa and David were keen to buy it. They hadn’t sold their house and there were complications and setbacks around the purchase, but eventually it was theirs. They changed the planning application to add a third bedroom and when that was granted in September 2019, it was full steam ahead for the project.

Builders created the breeze block shell of the house and crystals were put in the foundations before the concrete was poured to create the best energy. Lisa wanted to create a home that brought the outside in as much as possible so natural materials were used for wellbeing, including raw wood, while large wrap-around bifold doors open onto beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

David’s skills as a carpenter meant he was able to do a lot of the work, including making the windows, building the stairs and creating the kitchen cabinets, while Lisa and her cousin Angela painted the house from top to bottom. David also installed the solar panels on the roof. ‘I’d have an idea, we’d sketch it out and David made it,’ says Lisa.

The family lived in a rented property while the build took place, but they were finally able to move into the house in September 2020. ‘The kitchen wasn’t ready so we used the boot room instead because it had a sink,’ says Lisa. ‘We had to make do with a slow cooker and a sandwich maker!’

When it came to the interior Lisa was keen to use earthy shades. ‘If you walk along a beach, the pebbles are all different colours and the shades blend, and I wanted a similar feel. I wanted to make the house flow so that it was good for our wellbeing.’ The house celebrates natural materials in their rawness. ‘Everything is as natural as it could be,’ says Lisa. ‘The stone floor tiles are matt – nothing is shiny apart from the door handles.’ Wooden sleepers were used in the hallway for steps.

The open-plan kitchen is undoubtedly the heart of the home and one of Lisa’s favourite rooms. It is designed as the perfect entertaining space, as David and Lisa are great cooks. Large doors overlook views to bring the outside world inside, while the cabinetry is painted in a greeny grey. Lisa has used lots of natural materials including wooden chandeliers, while wooden pinnacles make an eye-catching display in the corner.

The family are thrilled with their dream home. ‘We love living here,’ says Lisa. ‘There are no street lights and it’s very peaceful.

We love the calmness and stillness.’

AT HOM E WIT H Owners Lisa Wallace is a reiki practitioner and her husband David is a carpenter. They live here with their sons Louis, 19, and Sebastian, 16, plus poodle Poppy and pomapoo Ralph.

House New build finished in September 2020 with three bedrooms.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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I WANTED TO MAKE THE HOUSE ` FLOW SO THAT IT WAS GOOD FOR OUR WELLBEING. EVERYTHING IS AS NATURAL AS IT COULD BE

a

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

LANCASHIRE NEW BUILD

Kitchen ‘We wanted to be a family together – it’s great that the children can sit while we’re cooking,’ says Lisa. The island bench breakfast bar was made out of tulipwood. White wooden chairs were resprayed and re-covered by Lisa. Wicker pendant light, Vaunt

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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LANCASHIRE NEW BUILD

Kitchen Light pours into the room from the large windows. Cabinets and end wall painted in Grey Moss by Little Greene. Wooden pinnacles, Rumpus in the Park. Grey pot (left), Homesense. Floor tiles, Roccia Hallway Influences from Lisa and David’s time in Spain can be seen in the metal pendant lights. Ceiling lights, Vaunt Exterior The exterior has a mix of wooden cladding and pebble dashing as Lisa wanted it to be as natural as possible.

Utility A cosy rug injects warmth into this neutral scheme. Cabinets, made by David and painted in Cornforth White by Farrow & Ball

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Kitchen seating area The woodburner creates a cosy corner. Woodburner, Greymetal.

Coffee table, came from Spain.

Outdoor faux rattan chairs and sofa, bought in Spain. Mustard cushions, Daisy Clough

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Main bedroom Lisa has chosen a calming palette to create a serene feel. Bed, Loaf.

Throw, Vaunt. Side tables; Blue Grey pendant lights, Homesense.

End of bed table, Swifts. Rugs, Vaunt. Grey wall painted in Manor House Gray by Farrow & Ball

ON OUR D O OR ST EP Visit... ‘Wyresdale Park (wyresdalepark.co.uk) at Scorton.

We love the Applestore cafe, which serves homemade food, and there are lots of gift shops. You can also walk to Nicky Nook, which has views over Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland Fells.’

Shop at… ‘Honeywells farmshop (honeywellfarmshop. com) sells fresh local meat and produce.’

Go for a meal at… ‘The Inn at Whitewell (innatwhitewell.com) near Clitheroe is renowned. It’s great for special occasions and serves delicious local food.’

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LANCASHIRE NEW BUILD

Bathroom Lisa has created a minimalist scheme with concrete effect tiles, while a wooden washstand injects warmth.

Washstand, Tikamoon. Concrete effect floor and wall tiles, Roccia.

Mirrors, Laura Ashley. Shower, Victoria Plum.

Upstairs landing Rooflights ensure the space is light and airy. The cabinet is from Lisa’s brother and she painted it in chalk paint. Mirror, The Range

Lisa’s workroom Lisa’s calming workroom opens onto the garden.

Louis’ room

FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS PHOTOGRAPHS JEREMY PHILLIPS

Pops of blue add vibrant touches.

The rug came from Turkey. David made the wardrobe.

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Exterior Nellie’s farmhouse was carefully restored over several years

TAKING THE LONG VIEW For artist Nellie Shepherd, the landscapes outside her renovated farmhouse are just as important as the colourful scene inside 34

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

P E A K D I S T R I C T FA R M H O U S E

CH&I WINNER BEST RURAL RENOVATION 2021

Living room Nellie uses plants, flowers, and art as part of her décor, and says lighting is important in creating atmosphere.

Wall lights, Industville

AT HOME WITH Owners Artist Nellie Shepherd and husband Andy, a physicist at Oxford University, bought the property in 2017. Nellie runs an art school (bullcloughartschool.com) from the house. The couple have pet sheep Dave and Hope, alpacas Teddy and Maggie, cockerpoos Benji and Bonnie, golden retrievers Betsy and Blossom, and British shorthair cats Charlie and George.

House The oldest parts of the former farmhouse date back to 1660, but it has been extended and altered over the years. The home is set in seven acres of land in the Peak District National Park and has seven bedrooms and three reception rooms.

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L

ooking for a canvas to paint the next chapter of her life on, location was everything when Nellie Shepherd began house hunting. Her ideal property would not only be home to herself and husband Andy, but would also be in a beautiful setting with views to inspire the students at the art school she runs.

After a seven-year search she found the perfect place – a 17th-century farmhouse of rose pink sandstone with limestone mullioned windows. With a barn and several acres of farmland, there was room for the art school, and the vistas of the Peak District National Park are eminently paintable.

‘People say it’s in the middle of nowhere, but I say it’s in the middle of everywhere,’ says Nellie. ‘It’s easy to get here from all over the country.’ The more obvious artists’ landscapes of the Cotswolds and Cornwall were initially in the mix but Nellie soon realised it would be too costly to develop properties there. ‘This house was well priced. We got a lot of home for our money, and I found myself drawn to it. It was magical.’

She may have found a special and affordable property, but there was more to its restoration than Nellie bargained for. ‘I’ve done a few renovations before and I knew it would be a challenge. I just hadn’t realised how bad it was,’ she says. Nothing had been done to the property for years, apart from a heavy- >

P E A K D I S T R I C T FA R M H O U S E

Artists’ kitchen Nellie keeps this second kitchen to cook for her students. She designed the floating storage and had it made by a local blacksmith.

Bespoke cabinets, Trevor Wood

I WANTED THE HOUSE TO HAVE PERSONALITY. THE KITCHEN IS `INSPIRED

BY PICTURES OF ACTRESS DIANE KEATON'S HOME a Kitchen An old butchers’ block provides welcome extra display space by the back door. Landscape painting, Richard Kitson

Hallway A palette of restful blues frames the view through the glazed front door.

Staircase painted in Aquamarine Deep, Little Greene. Front door painted in Dix Blue, Farrow & Ball

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Conservatory Nellie had some of the rotten timbers and glass replaced in the 1980s conservatory.

The window seat conceals storage and was made by carpenter Richard Keyes.

Woodwork painted in Invisible Green, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint

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Artists’ kitchen

P E A K D I S T R I C T FA R M H O U S E

One of the stone walls was left exposed to give a sense of the building’s origins.

Bonnie perches on a green bench seat, @poodle_ retro. Velvet cushion, Courthouse Interiors. Rug, Birdie Fortescue. Teapot still life, Gill Gathercole

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Garden There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the views. Table and chairs, Garden Trading

Bedroom/dressing room Soft pastel shades create a restful, romantic look with the original fireplace providing a central focus. Vintage tailor’s dummy and painting above fireplace, Locally Leek. Mirror, Garden Trading 40

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

handed makeover in the 1990s, when the beams were painted with thick black paint and many of the home’s original features were lost or covered up.

The house isn’t listed but still Nellie felt a weighty sense of responsibility for its renovation. ‘I was passionate about restoring it and bringing it back to how it should be,’ she says. She waited a year for heritage builder Andrew Preston to take it on, by which time so many problems had become apparent that she was regretting buying it.

The roof had to be removed and all the ceilings came down as most of the rafters were rotten, and every single lintel needed to be replaced. The house isn’t on mains water so a borehole was drilled and filter systems introduced.

Andrew examined every corner of the farmhouse. ‘He told me it had to be taken back to the brick and done properly, and he sourced salvaged rafters, beams and stones for the window sills to keep the character of the building,’ says Nellie. A local carpenter made replacement doors and windows to match the originals in a 1960s photo of the house.

The renovations couldn’t be rushed and it was four years before Nellie and husband Andy vacated their renovation HQ – a one-bedroom apartment in the barn.

‘I wanted the house to have personality and still feel higgledy piggledy. Andrew understood that and >

P E A K D I S T R I C T FA R M H O U S E

Bedroom Taking advantage of every inch of the roof height, a modern fourposter bed shares the limelight with the original beams. Bed, The White Company. Lamp, Lara Grace Interiors. Bedside tables, The White Company. Round rug, Benuta. Pink bedside runners Cuckoo Home COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Loft bedroom

Original stone walls have been left exposed at either end of the space, with a wet room style shower in the corner. Bath, taps, and shower fittings, mirror and heated towel rail, all Inside Out

Perfectly positioned to enjoy the full height of the loft space. Bed, Time4sleep. Fringed ceiling and bedside lamps, Anthropologie.

Wire bedside tables, Made. Textured rug, Loaf

created beautifully rounded lime plaster walls. He is a true craftsman and his passion for the house renewed my enthusiasm for it,’ says Nellie.

He and Nellie didn’t always see eye to eye, however.

The heritage builder advised flagstones downstairs, but Nellie chose porcelain tiles, which she says look like stone to the untrained eye and are easier to maintain than real stone. ‘Houses have to evolve and suit the way we live today,’ she says, ‘but you need to get the bone structure right, so the beams, roof and lime plaster all had to come first.’

Her former role as a party designer helped when planning the interiors, although the pace of building work frustrated her at times. ‘I used to create elaborate sets and build Venice – or even Rome – in a day, so it drove me mad how slow it was,’ she says. Good lighting was a priority, and Nellie designed her own for the two kitchens, spaces that were inspired by photos of actress Diane Keaton’s kitchen.

‘I like the boho-country look,’ says Nellie, who uses colour, paintings, flowers and lamps to decorate the rooms. ‘I try to edit and tell myself sometimes less is more, but I like to be brave with colour,’ she adds.

‘A house is a living thing and I’m forever changing things, inside and out. I don’t think it will ever be finished but we are so grateful to live here. Our time here started out as a nightmare but now it’s a dream.’

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FEATURE KAREN DARLOW PHOTOGRAPHS JEREMY PHILLIPS

En suite

P E A K D I S T R I C T FA R M H O U S E

ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit…’Chatsworth House (chatsworth.org) has over 30 rooms to explore. It also houses the Devonshire Collections, one of Europe’s most significant art collections, encompassing Old Masters to contemporary ceramics and artefacts from Ancient Egypt to modern sculpture.’

Shop at …’The Totally Locally Leek Sunday Supplement market is held on the first Sunday of every month (except January). It is an award-winning market with up to 80 stalls featuring handmade artisan products and local food.’

Go for a meal at… ‘Callow Hall (wildhive.uk), where lunch offers a fabulous immune-boosting superfood salad. Spring dining on the terrace is a treat, in the bright and airy Garden Room overlooking the valley, and sometimes I book a private dining room.’

Garden Lunch al fresco with an eclectic mix of chairs and folding tables set for the students at Nellie’s art school, with views of the landscape they paint. French antique wire double seater, Odeon Antiques in Leek

CH&I RUNNER UP BEST RURAL RENOVATION 2021

THREE IN ONE The contrasting parts of Sam Dascombe and Jeremy Flindall’s unique house have been united to create a fabulous 21st-century family home

W I LT S H I R E V I L L A G E H O U S E

Kitchen Sam chose a deep grey-green for the cabinets and added pale marble tops to emphasise the light. An eye-catching, oversized wall clock creates a focal point.

Walls in Grey Moss, Little Greene.

R7 150cm White Aga, Aga Rangemaster. The Battersby by Newgate is a similar wall clock

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Kitchen The large butler’s sink and dishwashers are sited at the far end of the kitchen, leaving the central area free for entertaining. Similar cabinets, Limehouse kitchen furniture, Neptune

Exterior The Georgian façade of the house gives no clue to the various ages of its different parts. Door and windows painted in Grey Moss, Little Greene

O AT HOME WITH Owners Sam Dascombe, a psychotherapist, her husband Jeremy Flindall, an investment specialist, and children, Oliver, 22, Anna, 20, and Daisy, 11. Jeremy’s children Will and Emily visit often. The couple bought the property in 2017.

House Six-bed village house, parts dating from the 16th century.

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n the outside, Sam Dascombe and Jeremy Flindall’s home appears to be a square, double-fronted Georgian house. Inside, however, the airy reception hall narrows into a cosy, low-beamed snug, then opens up to a spacious, open-plan, brick-and-flint kitchen-diner. This old property has clearly undergone many changes.

‘We think the snug in the middle is 16th century,’ says Sam. Apparently the front of the house burned down and was rebuilt in the 1700s, hence the Georgian design there. The kitchen at the back was a singlestorey brick barn that was added about 100 years ago, and converted into living space by the previous owner.’

It was this striking, split-level room that sold the property to Sam and Jeremy, who had been searching for their first home together. They were hoping to buy a characterful older house, but with five children between them, a family-friendly layout and bedrooms for everyone were the priorities. The house ticked all their boxes, although they knew from the outset that they would need to make some changes.

‘We loved the heart-of-the-village location as we can walk everywhere, but the interior was dated,’ says Sam. ‘There were old-fashioned fireplaces, a dark inner hall and cold, tiled floors. The kitchen was lovely but very small, and the living space could be better arranged.’

Within months of moving in, Sam and Jeremy had >

W I LT S H I R E V I L L A G E H O U S E

Kitchen Sam teamed her antique dining table with space-maximising bench seating. The pendant lighting was salvaged from a Cornish warehouse. Antique table, Youlls Antiques. Metal pendant lights, Any Old Lights

W I LT S H I R E V I L L A G E H O U S E

Entrance hall Remodelling has opened up the space. Will’s dramatic artwork hangs to one side of the living room entrance.

Walls and woodwork in Revere Pewter, Benjamin Moore. Bench, Ercol

Entrance hall An old gas fire was replaced by a log store with reclaimed brick details; bespoke bookcases fitted on either side give a homely atmosphere. Similar stool, Narwana, Nkuku 48

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

embarked on a renovation programme. Intending to create a large, light reception area, they started by having the inner hall knocked through, a task they expected to be straightforward.

‘Unfortunately it turned into a long and complicated job involving new ceilings and steel supports,’ says Sam. ‘Work was going on in bathrooms and bedrooms at around the same time, and at one point, upstairs was out of bounds, and we were sleeping on mattresses downstairs. It was hard going, but so exciting as well.’

The most ambitious change is towards the back of the property, where the oldest and newest parts of the house meet. The small, low-ceilinged snug originally contained a kitchen, but Sam and Jeremy immediately realised it would work better as a seating area, with a new kitchen-diner in the roomy barn beyond.

‘We’d always visualised a large, inviting living and dining space, where all seven of us could be together and eat as a family around a big table,’ says Sam. ‘Sadly, the existing kitchen just didn’t work for us, but we sold everything to a newly married couple who couldn’t have been more pleased with it.’

Sam and Jeremy planned their new kitchen-diningliving area together. They embraced the split-level layout, with L-shaped sofas forming the snug at one end, and the kitchen sink at the other. In the centre of the room, the rustic brick walls, Aga and refectory-style >

Snug Moody grey-green walls and warm oak flooring link the snug and kitchen-diner. Piled with cushions, the L-shaped sofa creates a cosy, familyfriendly corner. Walls in Grey Moss, Little Greene. Similar mirror, Oban, Oka

WE KNEW WE’D BE HANGING A LOT OF ARTWORK, SO ` I STEERED AWAY FROM STRONG COLOURS AND PATTERNS a Detail This striking painting was a junk-shop find.

Sam brought the green pottery back as a memento from Thailand

Snug Filling the back wall, Jeremy’s two large framed toucan prints, which he bought many years ago, bring colour and a fun touch to the space. Similar corner sofa is Stella, Sofa.com

W I LT S H I R E V I L L A G E H O U S E

Emily’s bedroom Warm taupe shades lift the white background. Striped cushions bring a vibrant splash of colour. Antik Green throw, Wattle & Daub. Similar headboard, George, Neptune

I WANTED A CALM, HOMELY INTERIOR THAT FEELS RELAXED, `SO NO ONE WORRIES ABOUT DOGS OR MUDDY BOOTS a

Bathroom The room was completely ravamped, with a chest of drawers adapted to make an elegant washstand. Chest of drawers, Susie Watson Designs.

Tiles, Marlborough Tiles

Main bedroom Linen curtains frame the view.

Sam’s treasured antique chair inspired her choice of a rattanstyle bed to coordinate. Curtain fabric, Cabbages & Roses.

Juliet bed, And So To Bed

FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY PHOTOGRAPHS COLIN POOLE

Sam walking Hebe the German shorthaired pointer

dining table bring a welcoming vibe. Although the design came together readily, it was a challenge to pin down the warm, grey-green colour palette.

‘We started with neutrals, which were too pale and bland,’ says Sam. ‘Then we tried deep greys, but it felt like a nightclub! It’s such a large space to decorate, so it was frustrating having to rethink, but we got there.’

The symmetrical design of the front section of the house prompted a soft, classic look for the large hall, separate living room and upstairs bedrooms. Sam picked the same versatile mid-tone for most walls and ceilings too, for a tranquil, seamless effect that helps draw the different parts of the house together.

‘I wanted a calm, homely interior that feels relaxed, so no one worries about dogs or muddy boots,’ she says. ‘The hall and living room aren’t massively light, and I’ve used a gentle putty shade all through. We knew we’d be hanging a lot of artwork, so I steered away from strong colours and patterns.’

Sam and Jeremy’s unique home lends itself to a busy family life, and as the children have grown up it has adapted easily to large or small gatherings.

‘We have quiet spaces and we can all be together, or do our own thing, in the kitchen-dining area,’ says Sam. ‘Jeremy and I would love to move nearer to the coast one day, but wherever we end up, I think we’d be hard pushed to find a house that suits us so well.’

ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit... ‘Stourhead (nationaltrust. org.uk/stourhead), a lovely 18th-century landscaped park, owned by the National Trust, with beautiful lakeside walks and classical temples.’

Shop at… ‘Cobbs (cobbsfarmshops.co.uk), a great place for locally-sourced, high-quality produce. The meat comes from a few miles down the road and there’s a fabulous fishmonger too.’

Go for a meal at... ‘Bunce’s (buncesbakehouse.co.uk) is a must for brunch or lunch – lovely wholesome food made with quality ingredients and the staff are so welcoming and friendly.’

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Exterior The cabin nestles in the landscape and is surrounded by its own small garden, which includes a wildflower patch and hefty Cornish granite stones unearthed during the build. Cabin built by North Coast Cabins. Teak garden furniture and parasols, Cyan.

Picnic basket, The Willow Basket

CORNISH CABIN

CH&I RUNNER UP BEST NEWBUILD HOME 2021

MAGIC OF THE MOOR

Having fallen in love with the moorland, Sue and Steve Osmond built a cabin, so friends can share their corner of Cornwall

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CORNISH CABIN

Living area Quiet colours and tactile finishes combine to create a tranquil, comfortable space.

Sofa, Julian Foye. Contura wood burner, Kernow Fires.

Footstool, Loaf. Lamp, Made. Hide rug, Rural Urban

A

AT HOME WITH Owners Sue Osmond, regional manager of a rural membership organisation (cla.org.uk), and her husband Steve, a retired Royal Navy engineer. The couple bought the property in 2011.

House One-bedroom timberclad cabin with a slate roof.

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fter many years of holidaying in North Cornwall, Sue and Steve Osmond felt the time was right to make a permanent move to the area. The couple sold their Dorset home and took a holiday cottage near Bodmin Moor, while they searched for a place to put down roots.

‘We wanted a rural spot, with a bit of space, and within striking distance of Polzeath Beach, which is one of our favourites,’ says Sue. ‘While we were out on the moor one day, we noticed this remote farmhouse up a track, and incredibly, it was for sale. The views were just spectacular, and we simply fell in love with it.’

The two-bedroom, 200-year-old property sat on a plot with a large barn and a dilapidated summer house.

Sue and Steve spent their first few years renovating the farmhouse, and settling into life on the moor.

‘We’re isolated here, which might not suit everyone, but we love the peace and quiet,’ says Sue. ‘Although our nearest neighbour is a mile away, there’s a real sense of community, too. People look out for each other, and there’s always someone you can call on.’

Five years on, their attention turned to the summer house, sited below the main house and overlooking open moorland. They decided to replace it with a new, sustainable building of a similar size, to provide extra accommodation for friends and family, and also to >

Living area The contemporary, ecofriendly wood burner sits on a locally-sourced Cornish slate plinth, and is sufficient to heat the cabin. Contura wood burner, Kernow Fires.

Slate plinth, Allen Valley Slates

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Kitchen Understated, handleless units help to give a sleek, uncluttered look in a limited space. Clerkenwell kitchen units, Howdens.

Bar stool, VonHaus

I CHOSE NATURAL ` MATERIALS – OAK FOR THE FLOORS AND DOORS, SLATE IN THE BATHROOM, AND GRANITE IN THE KITCHEN

a

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CORNISH CABIN

Dining area The farmhouse-style table easily seats four, and the mix of bench and chairs makes good use of the space. Table and bench, Rural Urban. Lamp, Made

generate some income through holiday letting. They approached a local contractor specialising in bespoke wooden cabins, and after a two-year application process, secured planning permission for a singlestorey, larch-clad building with a slate roof.

‘It was important to us that the cabin blended into the surroundings,’ says Sue. ‘It had to look like part of the landscape, as if it had always been there.’

Construction took seven months. In line with their sustainability aims, water comes to the timber-framed cabin from a borehole rather than the mains supply, and a wood burner provides the heating.

‘I wanted everything to be as eco-friendly as possible, so the cabin is well insulated, and even our hot tub is wood fired,’ says Sue. ‘I chose natural materials too, wherever possible, like oak for the floors and doors, slate in the bathroom, and granite in the kitchen.’

Steve took on the task of planning the cabin’s layout.

‘A boot room at the entrance was essential,’ he says.

‘Here, everyone needs somewhere to take off boots and wet clothes; we’ve put the washer-dryer there too.’

The main living space is open-plan. At one end there are inviting sofas, a wood burner, and French windows that maximise sunlight and emphasise the sweeping outlook to the south and east. Their green-painted frames tone seamlessly with the moorland beyond, >

Garden The Japanese-inspired wooden hot tub incorporates two comfy seats and is completely wood fired, so it’s eco-friendly.

Ofuro hot tub, Kernow Springs

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CORNISH CABIN

Bathroom

The bed is positioned to face the window and the moor. Floral cushions, Celina Digby. Pink cushions and throw, bedspread, bedside lights, all Made

ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit... ‘Harlyn Bay. This beautiful, sweeping beach near Padstow is a great all-year-round place to walk dogs and watch the surfers.’

Shop at... ‘Boscastle Farmshop (boscastlefarmshop.co.uk). This fantastic farmshop and restaurant sells pies, quiches, soups and cakes made on site, and beautiful beef from their own Ruby Red herd.’

Go for a meal at… ‘The Old Inn at St Breward (theoldinnandrestaurant.co.uk). This is Cornwall’s highest inn, where they serve a great range of home-cooked meals and possibly the county’s best Sunday roast.’

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Clever design allows for a statement bath looking out at the beautiful views and separate, walk-in shower. Tiles, Topps Tiles

bringing the views closer. ‘You can watch the weather moving across the moor and surrounding countryside,’ says Sue. ‘We have a telescope too, for stargazing, and spotting birds and wildlife.’

The neat corner kitchen is at the other end of the room, with the dining area close by. Beyond the boot room is a tranquil double bedroom with en suite.

When it came to decorating and furnishing the interior, Sue looked to the moor for her inspiration. ‘I started with plain white walls, but soon changed them to a pale grey, which is softer and easier on the eye,’ she says. ‘The greens, pinks and blues are the mellow, natural tones you’ll see outside all the time.’

The couple have also recycled where they could.

They turned roof beams from the original summer house into open shelves for the kitchen, and the industrial-style metal pendant lights were salvaged from the old barn on the property. ‘We just cleaned them up and had them rewired,’ says Sue. ‘They add character, which makes a difference in a new building.’

‘A little bit of the moor gets into your heart over time,’ says Sue. ‘Lots of people come to Cornwall and never visit this part, but we’re always delighted to let people see what we have here.’

Smugglers is available to rent from Boutique Retreats, boutique-retreats.co.uk

FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY PHOTOGRAPHS COLIN POOLE

Bedroom

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

`My designs blend influences from both East and Westa KIRAN RAVILIOUS, PATTERN DESIGNER & LINO PRINTER

K

iran Ravilious’ top-floor studio, nestled under the eaves of a screen-printing factory on the corner of a quiet street in Leicestershire, looks out over the urban rooftops – far removed from the lush greenery of tropical plants that surrounded her as a child growing up in Singapore, and which inspired many of her earliest designs.

‘I would often go to the Botanical Gardens and doodle for hours, and I used to love drawing trees as a child – you get such huge ones over there. But having lived in England for more than 15 years, you can see the influence of British plants in my work now.

And the colours, which aren’t as bright here – they are more muted,’ Kiran explains.

Her repeat designs for wallpapers and fabrics, worked up from her initial hand-carved lino prints, feature leaf forms and abstract shapes, derived from her medley of Eastern and Western influences – from exotic ferns to the leaf of the majestic oak. ‘I like to be quite spontaneous; I don’t have a lot of sketchbooks.

Instead, ideas come to me and I’ll start drawing directly onto lino, then carve them out and print onto linen,’ Kiran explains. ‘That’s

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what I like about handprinting: it is so instant, and I can see straight away how a design looks on fabric. Sometimes I will print just one or two motifs on my press, then transfer them to the computer and start playing with scale and colours.’

Kiran updates her designs for each season – the feminine and subtle lilacs and pinks of a recent spring/summer collection contrasting with the reds and russets of autumn. ‘I have gone back to my roots a little for some of my designs,’ she explains, ‘drawing on Indian culture and folk art influences and incorporating elements from these.’

Alongside the fabrics and wallpapers, her designs are produced in a range of products, including serving trays, linen cushions, napkins, tea towels, stationery and lampshades, sold via her website and independent stockists.

Kiran demonstrated her creative side from a young age and was encouraged by her parents to follow her passion – her father, an officer in the Navy, was also artistic and would regularly spend time drawing with her and her brother. ‘I got into fine arts when I was in art college, but my parents were unsure about me taking that path as they knew it is so hard >

Kiran works on a new pattern surrounded by homeware and accessories featuring her range of designs

What I love most...

MORNINGS IN MY STUDIO, WHEN I AM ABLE `TOQUIET SIT AND THINK OF NEW DESIGNS AND IDEASa to make a living from being an artist, so I studied graphic design instead,’ she explains.

After completing her degree, Kiran moved to London and quickly met her future husband, Ben. ‘We had a real connection; he is a creative thinker and appreciates what I do because he comes from a very artistic family,’ she explains.

Ben’s grandfather was the British painter, illustrator and wood-engraver Eric Ravilious, known for his charming watercolours depicting the scenic countryside of the South East.

It was following the birth of her first daughter, Jill, now 12, that Kiran felt inspired to create her own block-print designs. There is a strong heritage of wood-block printing in

After hand printing the lino-cut design onto linen, Kiran will transfer it to the computer, where she will play around with colour and scale

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Asian culture, but she admits that perhaps, subliminally, she was also influenced by the wood carvings of Eric and his wife, the artist and engraver Tirzah Garwood.

‘It’s hard not to be inspired by them.

Sometimes it can be quite daunting because of the surname – everyone knows the name Eric Ravilious – but I’m not his descendant. I try to do my own thing and have my own distinctive style,’ she explains.

‘I had done some lino carving at art college, but there were a lot of failed experiments at first – such as using the wrong water-based inks, which would wash off; I learned through trial and error,’ she adds, wryly. ‘I started off doing single image prints and creating big blocks, but after a while realised I needed to diversify and develop repeat patterns.’

It took a few years for Kiran to perfect her first repeat designs for fabric and wallpapers, working from a shed studio in her garden after the birth of her second daughter, Nina, now aged nine. Her first collection was launched in 2013, and was soon spotted by Heal’s, and the store commissioned her to produce a bespoke design. ‘It can take a while to fully develop a design. Even though the initial idea might be spontaneous, you have to put a lot of yourself and your energy into finalising it; weeks of work getting the right shapes that align with each other for the repeat patterns,’ Kiran explains. ‘It involves a lot of juggling things around, and it’s only when I look back that I realise how much work has gone into each design.’

She chose to have her products digitally printed ‘because it is more environmentally friendly than screen printing. The quality of digital printing has improved so much in recent years, too, making it more accessible to young designers,’ she adds. While she would like to expand her products to include a range of wool blankets in the future,‘I want to keep it small,’ Kiran explains. ‘I prefer a gradual and organic growth, moving at my own pace.’

For more information about Kiran’s designs, visit kiranravilious.com

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

These handmade lampshades are made to order in her range of fabrics

The interior of Stoneywell, a nearby Arts and Crafts house is a source of inspiration for Kiran

Kiran spends time perfecting repeat patterns for fabric prints

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ON MY DOORSTEP Visit... ‘Stoneywell (nationaltrust. org.uk/stoneywell), a fascinating small Arts and Crafts house in Charnwood Forest, Leicestershire. It was designed

by Ernest Gimson for his brother, and the National Trust have acquired it, along with its contents. I love going there to admire the architecture of the house and the furniture. The grounds are also beautiful.’

Shop at... ‘Bagel & Griff (bagelandgriff.com), home and lifestyle store in Market Harborough.

Owner Helene handpicks the items from all over the world, and also sources locally made and designed items.’

Go for a meal at... ‘Kuru Kuru Sushi (kuru-kuru-sushi.com) in Leicester. I love sushi, not just for how they taste but how beautiful they look.

Kuru Kuru is a quaint place, quite like the little eateries in Japan. The chef makes everything fresh to order.‘

Stoneywell is a favourite place for Kiran to visit

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

SMALL BUSINESS ADVICE

HOW TO CREATE ADDITIONAL STREAMS OF INCOME

FEATURE (MAIN STORY) RACHEL CROW; (SMALL BUSINESS ADVICE) JANET MCMEEKIN PHOTOGRAPHS JEREMY PHILLIPS (STONEYWELL AND WINDOW SEAT) NATIONAL TRUST/JAMES DOBSON

ENSURE YOUR CREATIVE TALENT IS REAPING FINANCIAL REWARDS

Potter Keith Brymer Jones believes there is plenty of scope for small businesses to capitalise on their creativity by diversifying into additional income streams – and there’s never been a better time to do so.

Keith is a judge on several television shows, including The Great Pottery Throw Down. He is also head of design at MAKE International, a company passionate about collaborating with inspiring designers, including Kiran Ravilious, to create practical, high-quality and stylish products, such as homeware, cookware and stationery.

CONNECT WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS ‘For makers keen to diversify, there are many opportunities to take a design and make it work harder, for example, mugs, tableware and cookware,’ explains Keith.

‘In such a competitive market, it’s essential that your products have a solid backstory, reflecting your own talents and personality.

‘You also need to articulate your message well, and have eye-catching branding in place to ensure your individuality and passion come across loud and clear, setting you apart from the crowd to get your products

noticed. If you can make that connection with the buyer, you are on to a winner.’

GAIN FEEDBACK BEFORE LAUNCHING Keith recommends making sure there is actually demand for the product you want to sell. Once this has been established, the next step is identifying which designs are most suitable for selling on a larger scale, from both a practical and aesthetic point of view.

‘Test the waters initially on social media platforms to gain valuable feedback, and then either build a website, or hone your existing one, to create an effective shop front for your brand,’ he adds. ‘I’ve found Wix to be excellent for building websites.’

Keith says other online platforms worth considering are Facebook Marketplace, Etsy and notonthehighstreet.com.

FIND A PRODUCT PARTNER ‘If business is booming, you could explore partnering with a recommended local supplier,’ Keith suggests. ‘If that’s really taking off, you may wish to approach a larger supplier who can sell to a wider audience and even overseas.’

After launching her business, Kiran began gradually translating her vibrant

wallpaper and fabric designs into homeware and stationery, starting with cards and wrapping paper, and branching into gift boxes, trays, tea towels, and a variety of other products.

MAINTAIN CREATIVITY ‘I did a lot of research and found good partners who understood my desire to expand slowly while keeping my business unique and personal,’ Kiran explains. ‘It’s been an interesting learning curve. I am thrilled to have been approached by MAKE International and very excited about this new opportunity.’

Keith adds: ‘For designers like Kiran, diversifying means that their work is being sold while they devote time to the creative process. These days, there are numerous online platforms available.

‘Admittedly, most success stories don’t just happen overnight, so do be prepared for a slow burn. If you have a great product that really catches on, your confidence and enthusiasm will be contagious and, who knows what may be round the corner.’

Keith Brymer Jones’s autobiography, Boy in a China Shop: Life, Clay and Everything is available now (£20, Hodder & Stoughton)

The one lesson I ’ve learnt...

TRY NOT TO DO EVERYTHING YOURSELF! `GETTING HELP CAN BE A REVELATIONa COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Room service A NEW COLLECTION OF COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS IS INFLUENCING OUR OWN INTERIORS. WE MEET THE DESIGNERS ENCOURAGING US TO TAKE THEIR IDEAS BACK HOME WITH US

Do try this at home: rich colour and pattern in the bar at The Pig at Harlyn Bay

COUNTRY HOUSE STYLE

Wood-clad walls feature in The Pig at Harlyn Bay, Cornwall

T

here was a time when country house hotels were a humbler proposition. Often family run, they provided their guests with simple pleasures: newspapers by the fire, good food, a comfortable bed in a grand setting. They were homely and definitely not setting the style zeitgeist as they do today.

Their shift to modernity didn’t happen overnight, but gained momentum when the doors opened to Babington House about 20 years ago. A Georgian property near Frome in Somerset, Babington ushered in a sense of cool. In came the leather club chairs, velvets and ikat prints – influencing the way so many of us decorate today – and exciting interiors became a prerequisite to success. ‘English country houses, even smart ones, were rarely buzzy or glamorous, and they’ve had to reinvent themselves,’ says Fiona Duncan, hotel expert for Telegraph Travel. As the market for weekend breaks expanded and the clientele became younger, the experience had to change to match.

Fast-forward two decades and the scene is unrecognisable. Gone are the mahogany-panelled temples to

chintz, with a new breed of sleek lifestyle destinations taking their place. New ventures over the past few years have moved the look on – greens, teals and geometrics now abound. This has influenced decorating as a whole, as hotel guests take the trends back home.

‘When we refurbished Babington House we created different atmospheres depending on the building, and to give each room a personality,’ explains Severine Lammoglia, lead designer. ‘For the main house we wanted to pay tribute to the Georgian architecture and create a cosy, layered interior.

We used different traditional English fabrics and lots of trims! This is in contrast to the stable rooms, which are more pared back and rustic.’

To see what the next big interiors looks are going to be, notes can be taken from any of the recent major openings. At The Newt, a hotel and horticultural centre outside Bruton in Somerset, modern shapes contrast alluringly with period features. ‘I’ve always loved old houses, but prefer contemporary furniture – the tension between the old and new excites me,’ says Karen Roos, the hotel’s >

The exterior of The Pig hotel near Bath

STRONG ` COLOURS ARE A SIGNATURE OF THE PIG AND GIVE GUESTS CONFIDENCE TO TRY THEM AT HOME

a

JUDY HUTSON, FOUNDER THE PIG HOTELS

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67

Love green?

The Newt’s Hadspen House hotel did it first…

Bare brick and floral wallpaper at Babington House, Somerset

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

owner and designer. ‘My inspiration was the beautiful manor house and working outbuildings, such as the stables, coach house and laundry.’

The much admired drawing room at Hadspen House, the main building on The Newt’s estate, perfectly showcases Karen’s skill for blending the old with the innovative.

Contemporary velvet tub chairs and modern taxidermy rendered in patchwork fabric sit alongside lofty portraits of former owners. The scheme is tied together with a fresh celadon green, not an uncommon colour to see in the countryside, and used over all woodwork and panelling here to striking effect.

‘I invariably end up with a few green rooms,’ says Karen. ‘It helps to hold together old and new furniture, and perhaps links everything back to nature.’ Reflecting the trend towards indoor-outdoor living, the house’s courtyard has been covered over with glass, creating a solarium dining space peppered with potted

COUNTRY HOUSE STYLE

Oil paintings, brass and a big tub: bathroom envy at The Pig in The South Downs Hadspen House at The Newt in Somerset

FEATURE PATRICK HAMILTON COURTNEY AND ANDRÉA CHILDS

COUNTRY ` HOUSE STYLE APPEALS TO ME. IT COMBINES WARMTH AND GRANDEUR IN A UNIQUE, ALLURING WAY

a

KAREN ROOS, OWNER AND DESIGNER OF THE NEWT

trees and plants, which practically named itself The Botanical Rooms.

Karen notes that country house style has become less grand, eschewing gilt inlay heirlooms in favour of a look linked to rooms traditionally hidden from view. ‘I like the interiors of films such as Gosford Park and The Portrait of a Lady, but I tend to prefer the downstairs, where the spaces are functional, timeless and unfussy.’

It’s a sentiment with which Judy Hutson, founder of The Pig hotels – or rather, restaurants with rooms – agrees. ‘Country hotel style takes many different forms but for us at The Pig, it is always about comfort and relaxation,’ she explains. ‘It should never feel too precious or contrived, yet maintain a feeling of somewhere special.

‘We see ourselves as having a very “lived in” look, rather like a home that has evolved over time. We love texture and strong colours that create the ambience that have become our signature. We try not to be too “shiny”, preferring the rusty

and reclaimed look rather than something too perfect. And I always try to bring the gardens inside.’

This distinctive, eclectic style has won legions of design fans across the eight The Pig properties, with guests keen to replicate the look in their own homes. ‘I receive constant requests for information,’ Judy says.

‘Many questions are about colour – seeing them used at the hotels gives people more confidence to try them in their own homes.’

The new country house hotels are also keen to foster local talent, commissioning work from local makers, craftspeople and artists to bring their interiors to life. ‘It fits with our philosophy of trying to support UK craftsmanship,’ explains Judy.

The march continues. This month, The Newt is sponsoring the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for the first time, bringing an emphasis on native flowers and naturalistic planting – a theme that stems from its own style and ethos. Babington House, where it all began, is set to move the style barometer once again after its latest refurbishment.

But ultimately this is a look about comfort and joy – neither of which ever stops being a trend.

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Pretty

IN PINK

Combine blossom pink and petal inspired hues to add a luminous quality to your home this spring

EVERYDAY EASY A ‘barely there’ pink is the perfect shade to create a welcoming living space, where warm white furnishings nestle easily against blush walls.

For similar paint, try Frosting vinyl matt from the Albany Ideal Home Emotions of Colour collection, £36.55 for 2.5ltr, Albany Paints. Isaac sofa, from £1,065, Sofa.com.

Carter coffee table, from £625, Neptune

D E C O R AT I N G

Maleeka rattan easy fit pendant, £40; Maddox trestle dining table, £449; large slim sideboard, £249; scalloped edge plates, from £3; pom-pom trim placemats, £4.50 for two; Capiz tea light holders, £6 each, all Dunelm

SUBTLE ACCENTS Adopt a light touch for dining décor, using decorative details such as glassware, place settings and cushions to bring shell-inspired hues to the table.

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D E C O R AT I N G

For a similar kitchen, try British Standard, from £535 for a single cupboard. For similar paint, try Tiny Dancer interior eggshell, £64 for 2.5ltr, Fenwick & Tilbrook Tray, from £20, Selfridges. Pots and beakers, from a selection at Heal’s

Aldwych dressing table painted in Old Rose, £640; Milo stool, from £250, both Neptune

Soft touch WHETHER YOU’RE ` LAYERING PINK SHADES, OR GOING ALL THE WAY WITH PINK WALLS, THE WARMING TONES CREATE A SOFT AND TRANQUIL FEEL

a

CHARLIE MARSHALL, LOAF FOUNDER 74

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

EARTHY PINKS Pale tints of terracotta and plaster give pink an earthier edge, which adds depth and warmth to a room.

Bare wood, plum and green make for natural partners.

Pink Peppercorn matt emulsion, £42 for 2.5ltr; Wycombe dining table, £1,830; Miller dining chairs in Chloe Fig, £415 each, all Neptune

Walls painted in Frosting vinyl matt from the Albany Ideal Home Emotions of Colour collection, £36.55 for 2.5ltr, Albany Paints

GENTLE LAYERS Made for dreamy nights, delicate marshmallow shades inspire a relaxed and peaceful mood, with snug bed styling created from layered pastel linens.

D E C O R AT I N G

FLATTERING TONES

FEATURE SARA BIRD PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

A warm pink shade will give an inner glow to dressing rooms. It’s feel-good, too, as the rosy tone warms the complexion and brings a healthy, happy vibe to the space.

For a designer look, try bespoke furniture fitters Neville Johnson. Or use Malm drawers, £70, Ikea, painted in Pink Slip, intelligent satinwood, £79.50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene

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SHOPPING

STYLE EDIT

Occasional chairs SIT PRETTY WITH ONE OF THESE SNUG SEATS

Mid-century mood with velvet seat. Arkin in Moss Green, £249, Dunelm. Pale blue linen with turned legs. Audrey, £1,080, Neptune.

Smart stripes and liquorice sticks. Mitzi, £449, Atkin and Thyme

Wicker wings. Emmeline velvet, £499, Atkin & Thyme. Button back. Betty in Marina, £440, Sofa.com.

Softest blush. Marlia, £950, Ercol

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FEATURE ALICE HUMPHRYS

Vintage-look spindle back. Burbler, £675, Loaf. Laid back lounging. Eichholtz Greta in Cambon Black, £940, Sweetpea and Willow.

Sweet curves. Edmund, £1,470, Country House Furniture Collection by Country Homes & Interiors x John Sankey

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

Chic and modern, Isola features posy-style flowers on a rusted-gold background, from £105 for a double duvet set

Carrie features pretty meadow flowers scattered over a pastel base, from £105 for a double duvet set

SPRING REFRESH One of our favourite ways to mark the change of seasons is to invest in beautiful bedlinen and give our bedrooms a vibrant new look

FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI

B

edlinen designs inspired by nature perfectly encapsulate a fresh spring feel. And MM Linen, a New Zealand brand with a British heart, offers a wide range of unique bedding and co-ordinating soft furnishings in a whole host of florals. ‘I work with artists from around the world to create original designs, including homegrown UK talent,’ says Kerry Jackson, founder and creative director. ‘These artworks are reproduced on bedlinen, bringing breathtaking original designs to life.’

This season, three new bedding designs have been added to the collection: Isola, Carrie and Valencia.

Each features florals, from delicate to dramatic, on 220 thread count cotton sateen. And for when you want an

extra layer, there’s also a range of co-ordinating bed covers in quilted linen, velvet or knit finishes.

As well as bedding, MM Linen’s designs extend to feather-filled scatter cushions and fully lined, ready-made curtains. The curtains come in three sumptuous printed velvets – Fiori, Florian and Arlette – plus two textured cottons, Camellia and Aubrey. They all feature eyelet headings and come in two width options and four drop options, ensuring the perfect fit.

MM Linen has sustainability at its heart, too. With Scope 3 carbon neutral status, its entire collection is packaged without plastic to reduce landfill. So if you’re looking to freshen up your bedroom, you’ll certainly be inspired by the range at MM Linen.

Valencia, a dramatic and romantic flurry of large painterly blooms, from £105 for a double duvet set

For more information Visit uk.mmlinen.com to shop the whole range of bedlinen sets, bedspreads, curtains and luxury cushions

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CLEVER LINK Fitting a bank of built-in cabinets along a hallway provides ample storage while seamlessly linking the spaces together. ‘If built-in joinery can be incorporated into the design, then consider using the space under the stairs or creating a run of cabinets along one wall. Not only will this provide storage, but it will keep everything organised and out of sight,’ says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director, Kelling Designs.

Make an

ENTRANCE

KEEP YOUR HALLWAY CLUTTER-FREE WITH THESE PRACTICAL STORAGE IDEAS, FROM BESPOKE FITTED JOINERY TO FLEXIBLE FREESTANDING PIECES

Try Neville Johnson for cabinetry. Grey salon tiles, £145sq m, Bert & May

H A L L W AY I D E A S

Find an expert joiner at The British Woodworking Federation Group, bwf.org.uk

TRANSFORM ALCOVES Made-to-measure joinery is ideal for awkward spaces. ‘With good-quality fitted storage, a hallway can essentially be transformed into an extra room, such as a home office with hidden desk space and built-in bookshelves and filing,’ says Jamie Godfrey, senior designer at Neville Johnson. ‘A statement library wall can also be incorporated into this space.’

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H A L L W AY I D E A S

TALL ORDER Make the most of high ceilings by introducing floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that can be fitted around the architecture of your space.

They can also be fitted with sliding ladders to access the top areas. ‘It is amazing how much storage you gain by going high up the wall, and if you make it no deeper than it needs to be your room will still feel spacious, without having to take over spare rooms,’ says Simon Tcherniak, senior designer at Neville Johnson.

Floor-to-ceiling built-in storage by Gwyn Dowell with carpentry painted in Oval Room Blue estate eggshell, £70 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

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SPICK AND SPAN Whether in a hallway or a landing area, enclosing the space under the stairs to create a cupboard is a simple way to create extra storage space for cleaning essentials. An industrial-style trolley is also handy for keeping cleaning products and tools in one place. To get the most out of every inch of space don’t forget the back of the door can be used to hang mops and brooms, too.

Try the Industrial metal trolley, £349, Greige. Buy traditional housekeeping brushes and tools at Labour & Wait

HIDDEN SPACES Repurpose a redundant area under the stairs to create concealed, multifunctional spaces. They can provide ample cupboard storage for boots and coats and could even double as a downstairs cloakroom if you have the room. Consider making the most of alcoves, too, by fitting them with a ledge to create a useful spot to change footwear.

Cushion upholstered in Quantock linen, £150m, Fermoie

H A L L W AY I D E A S

VERY VERSATILE If space is at a premium, a bench chest topped with a cushion provides a place for storage, but also acts a handy perch for putting on shoes. ‘Having a place to sit – a bench or chair, whatever the available space allows – signposts the functionality of a hallway and makes life easier when pulling off shoes and wellies. Adding a pillow or two makes it cosy,’ says Carole Annett at Neptune.

Henley wide storage box with cushion in Clara Natural fabric, £140, Neptune

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H A L L W AY I D E A S

Notgrove wooden console table, £380, Garden Trading

As a hallway staple, a console table offers surface space for items such as table lamps, letter racks, keys and memo pads, but it can also be used to display decorative items and plants to welcome guests as part of a styled display. Opting for a design with open shelves beneath is a great way to create extra storage in a hall, while keeping the space feeling airy and spacious. Use baskets to contain everything from everyday items like keys and wallets to slippers, to stop it from becoming a haven for clutter. Include a single chair for popping shoes on or off.

INTO THE GROOVE

For a similar paint colour, try Sapling Eggshell No.17, £68 for 2.5ltr, Earthborn

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For a seamless look, consider adding built-in cabinetry that’s flush with wall panelling.

Tongue-and-groove panelling finished in a soft sage shade is guaranteed to bring a classic country feel. ‘Fittings might include hidden cupboards, storage benches and adjustable shoe racks. The result is ample storage which helps to avoid a cluttered home environment,’ says Louise Wicksteed, design director for Sims Hilditch interior design. ‘For instance, a hidden door under the stairs might be designed in tongue and groove to blend well into the wall.’

FEATURE PIPPA BLENKINSOP PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

SLIM FIT

STYLE EDIT

Trusty kitchen tables FOR EVERYDAY SUPPERS AND STYLISH ENTERTAINING

Smooth circle in raw oak. Round Hambledon, £750, Garden Trading. Painted legs update the traditional farmhouse table. Painswick in Storm Grey, from £275, The Cotswold Company

Industrial look zinc top. Hancock, £705, Barker and Stonehouse.

Extendable oak with X-base. Noranda, £1,195, Perch and Parrow

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FEATURE ALICE HUMPHREYS

Subtle luxe with a brass frame and mango wood top. Danali, £995, Nkuku.

Made-to-order craftsmanship. The Peg Leg, from £2,350, DeVol

SHOPPING

Wycombe dining table, from £1,270, Neptune

CRAFTS FOR EASTER Delicate eggs and dried flowers come together in beautiful arrangements to decorate your home at this special time

EASTER TREE An Easter tree adds a seasonal touch. Cover papier mâché eggs with a paint wash. Coat the base in PVA glue and dip into a cup of eco glitter, tapping off any excess.

Glue small feathers and dried flowers as additional decoration and leave to dry. Hang and display the finished eggs on gathered twigs cut to fit a vase or jug.

Papier mâché eggs, from a selection, Hobbycraft. Jug, stylist’s own. Candlesticks, £7.50 each; candles, £6.90 for 10; beaker, £12, all The Danes. Napkin, £22 for two, Nordic House

Tip USE ECOFRIENDLY GLITTER WHICH WILL COMPOST AFTER USE

MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

EASTER EGG CIRCLET Make a simple yet beautiful floral feature with eggshells arranged in a circular shape – ideal for a centrepiece.

STEP 1 Blow the contents of duck eggs out and keep for later, then wash and dry the eggs. Break the tops of the eggs away using a pair of scissors to make miniature vases.

STEP 2 Using a circular template or freehand, line the eggs up on white tack to create a wreath shape.

STEP 3 Snip flowers and foliage down to a suitable height then add to the

vases. Use dried or woody varieties to hold their shape or keep fresh for longer. As an extra detail, and to hide the white tack, wrap a little raffia around the base of the eggshells.

Dried flowers, from a selection, Dowsing & Reynolds. Marble board, from a selection, Homesense. Plates, from £11 each; wooden bowl, £29.95 for three, all Nordic House.

Candleholders, £12 each, The Danes. Cutlery and tablecloth, from a selection, Rowen & Wren

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MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

EASTER BASKET Transform a simple basket with this stylish hack combining preserved and dried flowers and a ribbon bow. Thread a length of florist wire around the front edge of the basket, then tie off the ends.

Push the flowers under the wire, hiding the stems. Finish off with a length of ribbon tied under the flowers in a bow.

Insvep baskets, £4 for set of two, Ikea. Flowers, from a selection, Dowsing & Reynolds. Tea light holders, £14.95 set of three, tea lights, £7.50 for 20; wooden bowl, £29.95 set of three, all Nordic House.

Ribbon, from a selection; ceramic beaker, £12, both The Danes

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Moss and nest from florist suppliers. Ceramic eggs, from a selection, Hobbycraft. Tissue papers, from a selection, Etsy.

Dome, £41.99, Talking Tables.

Candlesticks, £7.50 each; candles, £6.90 for 10; bird tags, from a selection, all The Danes.

DOME DISPLAY Create keepsake eggs and display them under glass. To make the eggs, cut out tissue paper shapes.

Using découpage glue, stick and paint the glue under and over the tissue and attach to ceramic eggs.

Leave to dry to one side. To arrange, line the base of the dome with moss, then place a preformed nest on top. Nestle the eggs and some dried flowers in the nest and place the dome on top.

Tip CUT FLOWER PICTURES FROM PRE-PRINTED NAPKINS FOR EASE

Tip PUT THE WREATH ON A TABLE AND FILL WITH PILLAR CANDLES FOR A SIMPLE DISPLAY

Grapevine wreath, from florists. Dried flowers, from a selection, Dowsing & Reynolds. Ribbon and string, from a selection, The Danes.

Cloth, from a selection, Rowen & Wren

MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

SPRING WREATH Create an everlasting wreath from grapevine, preserved flowers and eggs. You could cover the entire circle or leave some bare for a contemporary look STEP 3 Working around the wreath, push flowers into the wreath wire, then add the painted eggs and single flower heads, using a hot glue gun to secure.

FEATURE AND STYLING SARA BIRD PHOTOGRAPHS DAN DUCHARS

STEP 1 Prepare quails eggs by blowing the contents out, washing and drying, then painting with a thin paint wash (paint diluted with water). We chose a blend of nude and pastel shades.

Leave to one side to dry.

STEP 2 Taking a prepared grapevine wreath, twist threads of string around the wreath then tie the ends to secure.

How to make blown eggs Take a needle and make a small hole at the top of the egg, and a slightly larger one at the base. Cover the holes with your fingers and shake the egg to scramble, then blow the contents out. If you don’t want to do this with your mouth, insert a paper straw into the top hole and blow. Collect the egg in a bowl for use later.

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SEAMLESS STYLE If you’re looking for blinds for a large window, consider hanging a series of Roman blinds outside the frame and flush beside each other – this will achieve a seamless look while giving control over the light levels of individual bays. Choosing a small repeat design in a neutral shade will help the space appear larger.

Solstice in Pebble

by Prestigious Textiles, £28.81m at Jane Clayton

DRESS TO IMPRESS

BRING NEW LIFE TO YOUR WINDOWS WITH A BEAUTIFUL BLIND IN A STATEMENT FABRIC OR PRACTICAL DESIGN 96

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

BLIND IDEAS

2 Blind in Ozone Ruby printed linen, £205m; bordered with Alto Lemon linen, £150m, both Christopher Farr Cloth

1 The Metropolitan Snow and Parchment wooden blind, from £25.85, Blinds 2go

3 Trim for Roman blinds, £900, Samuel and Sons.

Fabric for Roman blind, £777.60, Romo

1 LET THE LIGHT IN Venetian blinds are a great choice for bathrooms, as they have adjustable slats, also known as louvres, which allow you to control light levels and privacy. ‘Wood Impression Venetian blinds offer water resistance suitable to a bathroom environment,’ says Leah Aspinall, head of creative at Blinds 2go. ‘Alternatively, roller blinds with polyester or polyester mix fabric are resistant to damp and humidity and are easy to wipe clean, making them a practical choice.’

2 FEATURE PRINTS A Roman blind in an eye-catching fabric is a brilliant way to create a

focal point within a room where the space for wall art may be limited.

No matter how large your window, a colourful geometric fabric will liven up a neutral corner.

4 Blind in Woodblock linen in 02 Forest, £124m, Madeaux

in a heavy weave enables the light to be completely blocked out during the evening and at night, creating a restful environment,’ says Louise Wicksteed, design director for Sims Hilditch interior design.

3 VERY VERSATILE For window treatments that give privacy without having to sacrifice light levels, sheer blinds are a good solution. For increased control over light levels, pair with a Roman blind in a heavier fabric. ‘For bay windows we often use a combination of blinds and curtains. Sheer blinds are a great choice as they allow a certain amount of light into the room. The addition of curtains or Roman blinds

4 ALL THE FRILLS Making a feature of a bathroom window with a fabric blind is a brilliant way to inject personality. ‘Bathrooms often feel cold. Adding a large-scale floral fabric ruched to create a London blind with a contrast or striped trim adds a touch of whimsy, creating a considered and joyful interior,’ says Richard Smith, founder and creative director at Madeaux.

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5 Curtains in Mauritius Fire Coral fabric, £49m; for a similar blind fabric try Hector in Russet, both Sanderson

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BLIND IDEAS

5 DOUBLE UP Pairing blinds with curtains gives flexibility over light levels while providing an extra layer of insulation, but they can also create a beautiful feature in a pared-back scheme. Combining curtains in a beautiful botanical design with plain Roman blinds in a contrasting shade is a fun and cheerful way to bring colour, pattern and warmth to entertaining spaces such as dining or living rooms.

6 PRINTS CHARMING If you love print why not inject a double dose of it by using the same design on blinds and walls?

Bathrooms with grand proportions are great spaces for using decorative prints as the designs are really allowed to shine, while making the space feel more cosy. ‘Bathrooms are a great place to create a sense of drama so be brave and use the same pattern on all the walls and on blinds or curtains.

Whether you are going for a classic or an ultra-modern look, there is a wide choice of designs to suit all styles,’ says Lee Clarke, director at Warner House.

6 Blinds in Les Pecheurs linen mix fabric, £55m, Warner House

NEED TO KNOW… BLINDS

FEATURE PIPPA BLENKINSOP

HOW DO I MEASURE UP?

‘Use a steel tape measure or laser measuring device, as cloth tape measures can bend. Measure in three places for both the width and the drop, and always use the smallest measurements,’ says Oliver Hudson, director at Blinds by Post

SHOULD BLINDS FIT INSIDE OR OUTSIDE THE WINDOW FRAME?

‘It will depend on whether your window has a recess and what obstructions there are, such as handles and window fittings,’ explains Leah Aspinall, head of creative at Blinds 2go.

ROMAN OR ROLLER BLINDS? ‘If the fabric or

WHICH BLINDS OFFER GOOD INSULATION?

pattern is a key part of your scheme, Roman blinds are the best option. Roller blinds are a perfect choice if you are looking to maximise daylight and make smaller windows look taller,’ says Harry Cole, founder of Loom & Last.

‘The lining you pick will really help to insulate the home. There are fantastic thermal blackout linings available for curtains, Roman blinds and roller blinds,’ says Leah Aspinall, head of creative at Blinds 2go.

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EMMA SIMS HILDITCH

Adding more character WANT TO BRING PERSONALITY TO A RENOVATION OR CONTEMPORARY HOME? HERE’S HOW TO GET A LIVED-IN LOOK THAT OOZES CHARM Antique or vintage furniture and carefully chosen accessories will add character to a room

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LOOK FOR ONE-OFF ` PIECES AT ANTIQUES FAIRS OR REPURPOSE EXISTING FURNITURE FROM ANOTHER ROOM AND BRING ITS PERSONAL HISTORY TO YOUR NEWLY DECORATED SPACE

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PINPOINT YOUR PERSONAL STYLE 1PG QH VJG RNGCUWTGU QH JCXKPI C DNCPM ECPXCU VQ FGEQTCVG KU VJCV KVoU CP QRRQTVWPKV[ VQ TGƂPG CPF TGEQPUKFGT [QWT UV[NG CPF EQPUKFGT YJCV EQOHQTV CPF EJCTCEVGT OGCPU VQ [QW /CP[ QH QWT EKV[ NKXKPI ENKGPVU URGEKƂECNN[ CUM VJCV VJGKT JQOG TGƃGEVU C EQWPVT[ NQQM YJGVJGT KVoU C HCTOJQWUG MKVEJGP QT EQU[ NQWPIG EQORNGVG YKVJ YQQF DWTPGT +VoU GPVKTGN[ WR VQ [QW VQ FGEKFG QP [QWT EJQUGP CGUVJGVKE CPF JQY [QW YCPV VQ NC[GT KV KPVQ [QWT RTQRGTV[ CREATE FLOW WITH FURNISHINGS 1PEG EQPUVTWEVKQP QH VJG PGY JQWUG QT GZVGPUKQP KU EQORNGVGF QWT FGUKIPGTU HQEWU QP JKIJ SWCNKV[ > COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Emma suggests using salvaged wood boards on walls and ceilings to soften a new extension

Don’t overlook the floor when decorating – stone or timber flooring will transform a blank space

Gather finishes, wallpaper and fabric samples on a table and juggle colours and textures until you find the blend you love

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Use colour and furnishings to inject a space with soul

FEATURE ANDREA CHILDS

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K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

The large island includes a wet zone and prep surface on one side, with storage on the other, plus an overhang for bar stools

PROJECT PROFILE Owners A couple with

Organised & ACCESSIBLE BOLD COLOUR AND ELEGANTLY PROPORTIONED FURNITURE CREATE IMPACT IN THIS NEWLY EXTENDED OPEN-PLAN KITCHEN SCHEME

young children

House A post-war five-bedroom house in Nottinghamshire

Project A kitchen reconfiguration and extension Kitchen size 6.5x4m Designer Krantz Designs, headed by managing director Jamie Krantz

Cabinetry Wollaton Shaker bespoke kitchen in Farrow & Ball’s Black Blue and Blackened, by Krantz Designs COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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A bifold door opens to reveal a breakfast cupboard with built-in microwave and electrical socket for the toaster

The structural pillar in the centre of the room houses the wood-burning stove, its warmth enjoyed from both sides

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et in two acres of mature gardens in the Nottinghamshire countryside, this large Fifties-built house was ideal for family life with young children. Except for one room, as Jamie Krantz of Krantz Designs explains. ‘The kitchen was relatively small and cut off from the dining room, as was typical of the time the house was built,’ he says. ‘Our clients wanted to create a more spacious room with an open-plan design, suitable for cooking, dining, relaxing as a family and socialising with friends.’

Their solution was to remove the internal wall between the old kitchen and dining room, and to extend across the rear of the property to create a much larger and light-filled L-shaped space. The new soft seating and dining area has the kitchen at its heart, with a central log burner built into a structural supporting pillar to radiate warmth throughout the room.

‘Our goal was to design a kitchen with character that sat comfortably in the large space,’ says Jamie.

Choosing in-frame Shaker-style cabinetry with a

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clean-lined design was key to success – its unfussy look creates a contemporary twist on classic furniture, while the deep Black Blue painted finish adds plenty of impact. ‘We introduced a two-toned colour scheme to highlight the range cooker, island and tall cabinetry as focal points, balancing them with sections painted in a soft white with a hint of grey,’ he explains. ‘In a large kitchen like this, it’s important to add some variation for interest – too much of a dark tone would be heavy, too much white would be bland.’

The room is carefully designed to create areas dedicated to specific tasks, from making breakfast to preparing drinks, so that the family can use the space together with ease. The island is the focal point of the room, its 2.8m long size designed to be in proportion to the generous dimensions of the space, and to provide ample prep surface and a hub for morning coffee or an evening glass of wine. ‘It is a room designed for modern family life,’ says Jamie, ‘with a timeless feel that should last for years.’

K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

The Metis tap dispenses filtered drinking water as well as ‘standard’ hot and cold, and has a handy side spray rinse

Stone-effect porcelain floor tiles are stain and scratch resistant, making them easy to maintain

RANGE COOKER

COFFEE MACHINE

LOG BURNER

FRIDGE

ISLAND

FREEZER & WINE COOLER

THE LAYOUT Positioned between the living and dining areas, the kitchen is focussed on a large island including sinks, dishwasher and plenty of work surface, with an area for two bar stools at one end. Behind, the wall run contains a breakfast cupboard, cooking zone and storage, while, at right angles, a section of tall cabinetry includes an integrated fridge, freezer and wine cooler flanking a coffee station.

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Bold Black Blue-painted furniture contrasts with cool white

ORGANISED & ACCESSIBLE

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CLEVER DESIGN SOLUTIONS

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CHIMNEY BREAST

A faux chimney breast adds character to the room, frames the range cooker and conceals the extractor hood. Topped with a clean-lined overmantel, painted to match the wall to lighten its look, the sides include wall niches to keep condiments close to hand. Painting the base units in Black Blue distinguishes the zone from the remaining sections of the wall run and creates a more ‘unfitted’ look, while the mirrored splashback enhances the spacious feel of the room.

K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

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MIXING MATERIALS

While the dark furniture contrasts against the light cabinets for a simple yet effective modern impact, the design is united by the consistent use of polished chrome and nickel detailing, from the pendant lights to the cup handles and knobs, the tap and the trim of the range cooker. Natural textures have been introduced to the scheme with the wooden-topped bar stools, heavy linen blinds and marble-effect quartz work surfaces, designed to create a smart combination that still sits comfortably in a house in the country.

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ALL-IN-ONE DRINKS’ ZONE

It makes sense to house all the kit for making drinks in one zone, so the family can make coffee or reach for a chilled bottle of wine for the adjacent dining table, without getting in the way of the cook. The section of tall cabinetry includes a central built-in coffee machine, next to a built-in wine cooler and freezer for ice. Built-in shelves and racks and a lower cupboard provide storage for coffees, glassware and mugs, while the integrated fridge is within easy reach for milk.

The antiqued mirror splashback adds a touch of subtle glamour, as well as protecting the wall against splashes

THE DETAILS CABINETRY Wollaton Shaker bespoke kitchen, from £40,000, Krantz Designs; in Black Blue and Blackened modern eggshell, both £77 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Bespoke boot room in Black Blue, £4,200, and utility room furniture, £13,200, in Farrow & Ball Plummett; both in Wollaton Shaker, Krantz Designs

SURFACES Royal Collection Ludlow quartz worktops, around £5,000; antique mirror splashback, around £1,200; North Cape Flags White porcelain floor tiles, £108sq m, all Krantz Designs

FEATURE AMELIA THORPE PHOTOGRAPHS PAUL CRAIG

APPLIANCES Similar range cooker, Professional Deluxe 110 Dual Fuel in Slate with Chrome trim, £2,375, Rangemaster.

Cache 800mm extractor, £796, Westin. Similar built-in microwave, MBB1755SEM, £470; KKK884500M built-in coffee machine, £1,999; SKK8182VDC integrated larder fridge, £749; ABE682F1NF integrated under counter freezer, £649; FSK63700P fully integrated dishwasher, £649, all AEG. WC6511 wine cabinet, £1,372, Caple. Evolution 200 S food waste disposer, £480, Insinkerator

SINKS & TAPS Metis 1580 nickel sink mixer with filtered drinking water and rinse, £1,038, Perrin & Rowe. Modultop 19939W ceramic undermounted sinks, £503 each, Kohler

ACCESSORIES The section has a steppedfront coffee cupboard, flanked by fridge, left, and wine cabinet above a freezer, right

Provence rise and fall pendant lights, £149 each, Elstead Lighting. Try the Vice Industrial bar stools, £79.99 each, Atlantic Shopping. Bespoke blinds, Bloomsbury Curtains & Blinds

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R E N O V AT E & R E PA I R

BUILDING AN ANNEXE

ADDING A SELF-CONTAINED LIVING SPACE CAN TRANSFORM YOUR HOME AND THE WAY YOU USE IT. FIND OUT HOW TO ADD AN ANNEXE WITH OUR GUIDE

This three-bedroom annexe was created by converting the milking parlour belonging to an 18th-century farmhouse

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LEFT A cladded-oak framed annexe from Border Oak fits seamlessly with this brick cottage, adding a versatile living space BELOW With its mellow weatherboard facade and grey-green woodwork, this oak-framed barn features a one-bedroom garage annexe

W

ith adult children returning home after university and elderly relatives benefitting from being closer to family, there’s growing interest in annexes that provide additional flexible living space. Building an annexe offers an alternative to moving house and can even add value to your home.

WHAT IS AN ANNEXE? An annexe is a self-contained living space featuring kitchen, bathroom and bedroom, which is part of an existing house. The annexe can be attached to the main property or housed in a converted outbuilding such as a barn or garage. For it to be deemed an annexe, not a separate dwelling, it must only be occupied by one household.

The main difference between an annexe and an extension is usage.

An extension functions as a continuation of the main property while an annexe is an addition that operates independently.

DO YOU NEED AN ARCHITECT? While an architect is not essential, building an annexe is unlikely to be something you can undertake on a DIY-basis. It is highly recommended

to hire an architect or an annexe company to help you with planning and positioning to building and completion. This will ensure that your new addition is safe and legal.

WHAT MATERIALS CAN I USE? ‘Timber is a popular choice as it works well with all sorts of materials and so will suit the majority of houses. It’s also great in terms of sustainability if sourced from a company with an eco procurement policy,’ says Merry Albright, founder at Border Oak. ‘Timber can also offer a variety of looks and so can create either a more traditional or contemporary annexe.’

Alternatively, you can echo the materials used to build the main property, whether that be brick, cladding or stone. If you want to make a clear distinction between the main house and the annexe, then a more modern-looking glass and metal design can have a striking appearance.

Insulation is a key consideration as without the relevant treatment, your annexe cannot be used as a permanent living space.

WHERE CAN I PLACE MY ANNEXE? Planning authorities usually insist on an annexe being close if not attached to the main house. You also need to factor in amenities and services, such as electricity, water and sewerage, as these will also affect your location.

WHAT IS THE BEST SIZE? ‘To obtain planning permission or a Certificate of Lawfulness to build a granny annexe, your Local Planning Authority is likely to look favourably upon what they consider to be a reasonable size annexe for a family member. A size of 12.9x6.09m or smaller is usually ideal,’ says Pete Cossie, managing director of Contemporary Log Living.

HOW CAN I USE AN ANNEXE? An annexe, in its simplest form, is an additional space that you can use in any way you desire. Typically, they are added as an additional COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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and more private living space for extended family members or for frequent guests to stay in.

If you want to use your annexe as permanent accommodation, then you will need planning permission, says Alex Cole, design consultant at Oakwrights, ‘Most councils allow this with clauses that they cannot be sold off as a separate dwelling.’

HOW TO ACCESS AN ANNEXE? Access is a key consideration when building your annexe and one that is inherently tied to purpose. The easiest method is a lockable door through another part of the main house, typically the hallway or kitchen. This makes the annexe feel more like a part of the main home, which can either be a positive or negative depending on its usage.

If you plan to rent out your annexe or want your annexe’s inhabitants to come and go freely, then an external door is a better option. However, this will require independent access to the garden.

A more modern option is a glazed link. This glass walkway connects the main house to an external annexe or extension and is the perfect compromise, making the annexe feel separate while still 112

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having the convenience of being connected to the main property.

CAN I TURN MY GARAGE INTO AN ANNEXE? Yes, although you may need to apply for a ‘change of use’ and will need to ensure that your conversion adheres to building regulations. ‘It would be wise to use an architect when converting a garage or outbuilding into an annexe as they will also be able to ensure that your permissions are correct,’ says Melissa Robinson, architect and director of MW Architects.

CAN I RENT OUT MY ANNEXE? An annexe can quickly pay for itself should you decide to rent it out.

But it is important that you get the relevant planning consent for a rentable space; this will differ depending on your location, so check with your local authority.

DOES AN ANNEXE NEED PLANNING PERMISSION? You do not always need planning permission for an annexe though it is always vital that you check rather than assume. If in doubt, get in touch with your local planning authority. ‘There are several factors

which need to be taken into consideration, including your home, its location, the position of the annexe and the size of the building required. A design company or architect should take into consideration whether the annexe is required to be built under permitted development and will also ensure a design which will suit your needs,’ says Alex Cole.

All annexe additions will need to adhere to building regulations.

DOES AN ANNEXE ADD VALUE? Adding extra living space of any kind will add value to your home.

According to Checkatrade, a self-contained annexe could add up to 20 to 30% to the value of your property. However, you will need to ensure the project cost is less than the value that is added. Converting a garage or an outbuilding is the most affordable way to add an annexe to your home.

Sourcebook

OUR PICK OF ANNEXE & GLAZING PROVIDERS Contemporary Log Living, contemporarylogliving.com Q

Q

Border Oak, borderoak.com

Q

Oakwrights, oakwrights.com

Q

Ion Glass, ionglass.co.uk

FEATURE HOLLY REANEY PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

A modern glass walkway floods the old farmhouse with light and acts as a link between the original property and the new annexe

Built from reclaimed bricks paired with modern glazing, this annexe from MW Architects is full of character

P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E An Oakwrights annexe is the starting point from which you can create a space that’s right for you

Extend your living space WITH AN ANNEXE When you need extra room, a beautiful oak-framed annexe from Oakwrights is the stylish solution

FEATURE JACKY PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS SIMON KENNEDY

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dding an extension to your home is not the only option if you need to create more space – utilising an outdoor spot to build a separate annexe is a great alternative. These popular structures can be located within your garden or grounds to provide a hobby room or art studio, a gym or working-from-home office, or to create accommodation for guests.

We’ve all had to adjust the way we live in recent years. Spending more time at home has opened our eyes to how we can make positive changes there. Whatever it is that will enhance your life – indulging your creativity, more time for exercise or extra entertaining space – an oak-framed

stand-alone annexe by Oakwrights can make it a reality. The design team will take you through step by step, tailoring their templates to suit your taste and requirements. They can also advise you on whether your annexe requires planning permission or if it falls under permitted development rights. From the room plan and external material palette, to the glazing and even the roof, your design consultant will work with you on your chosen layout, the site location and the aesthetic that best suits the architecture of your home.

Whether you want a family den or one-bedroom studio, Oakwrights can help you realise your dream, whatever your budget and lifestyle.

Enhance your home with a stand-alone Oakwrights oak-framed building in your garden

For more information Visit oakwrights.co.uk/annexes or speak to an Oakwrights design consultant on 01432 353353

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P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E Dash of Nutmeg easyclean® matt emulsion, from £25 for 2.5ltr

Teal and Midnight Navy easyclean® matt emulsion, from £25 for 2.5ltr

Crown’s easyclean® paint range will help you retain that ‘just painted’ look for longer

R

epainting your home has the power to totally transform your space, not only breathing new life into your walls but also reinvigorating your furniture, flooring and interior design. While some paint finishes can mark easily or be wiped off when scrubbing away stains, Crown has a better solution with its durable easyclean® range.

Don’t just take our word for it, the easyclean® formulation has been independently tested to be 200 times tougher and more washable than Crown’s standard matt paint, making it the best choice for stain and scrub resistance. What’s more, the easyclean® range has been tested in family homes and has been awarded a ‘Mumsnet Rated’ badge,

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with 98% of Mumsnet users recommending it.

Of course, durability isn’t the only consideration when it comes to paint – the look is essential too. The Crown easyclean® range combines practicality with beauty, offering a stunning array of 49 shades, from soothing and warming neutrals to inky blues and greys, meaning you’ll be able to find the perfect look for your country home. What’s more, Crown’s breatheasy® formulation is also asthma and allergy friendly – ideal for a healthy home.

The benefits aren’t confined to the walls, as this multisurface paint can also be used on metal and woodwork.

Now you can give your home a refresh, knowing that your walls will stay looking good for years to come.

For more information To find your perfect colour, visit crownpaints.co.uk or head to your nearest Crown Decorating Centre, Homebase or leading independent retailers.

FEATURE HOLLY REANY

CLEAN START

Simply Duck Egg and Powdered Clay easyclean® kitchen emulsion with Greaseguard+ technology, from £25 for 2.5ltr

LIFESTYLE

LIVE YOUR BEST

Country Life

PHOTOGRAPH RACHEL WHITING © RYLAND PETERS & SMALL

SUSTAINABILITY Y GARDENS Y RECIPES Y TRAVEL Y PASTIMES

SO GRATEFUL `TOI’MTHE PREVIOUS

Heritage Style: A Fresh New Take on Traditional Design

by Selina Lake (£25, Ryland Peters & Small)

OWNERS WHO PLANTED OUR APPLE TREE. I HANG BUNTING FROM IT IN SPRING

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SELINA LAKE, AUTHOR OF HERITAGE STYLE

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Chick chat: Clodagh with one of her hens

Make Easter nests from foraged twigs

IN THE COUNTRY WITH

Clodagh McKenna A YEAR WITH OUR WONDERFUL GIRLS!

T

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few of the big personalities in the coop!

My morning routine starts with the Girls.

I wake up and pop on my wellies and let them out of the hen house. As I walk closer they can hear me and start to yelp with excitement (well, I hope that’s what the screeching is). Once they are all out and foraging, I gather the eggs (we are getting about nine a day at the moment), bring them back into the house, wash them and cook up a few for breakfast. Then it’s back out to the hens to clean out their house and get them set up for the day. All the hay from the roosting area gets put into our composting pile, and we replace it with fresh hay for the day and night ahead.

Feed and watering cans are cleaned VJGP ƂNNGF CPF TGCF[ HQT VJG FC[ As it’s Easter I’ll be using some of the eggs to decorate my Easter tablescape.

You can see in the pictures how I have styled it and there is a step-by-step so that you can create it too. I hope you have a wonderful Easter!

NEXT MONTH:

X Hive talking as Clodagh shares her experience of keeping bees

Trees shelter the coops

Fresh eggs for breakfast

FEATURE ANDRÉA CHILDS PHOTOGRAPHS CLODAGH MCKENNA

his month marks our one year anniversary with our hens, or as we like to call them – our Girls! I had always dreamed of keeping my own chickens; the idea of having fresh eggs every day and living in a more sustainable way is the focus of our life here at Broadspear. It’s been a steep learning curve ever since they arrived. But it’s like anything, you learn as you go along, ask for advice and quickly get into a routine.

We have 14 hens in total that live in a lovely fenced area, sheltered by cherry trees, just beyond my kitchen window so I can keep an eye on them. There are two wooden coops perched on stone carved mushrooms that they cuddle up in every night. We have four different breeds – Burford Browns, Olives, Old Cotswold Legbars and Dekalb Whites.

The eggs are a mix of beautiful brown, white and olive green.

The Girls have become members of our extended family – I absolutely love them, and each one of them has a unique personality. Tina (the boss and named after Tina Turner for her unique strut), Goldie Hen, Yolko Ono, Saoirse, Henneth Paltrow and Eggy Pop are a

LIFESTYLE

HOW TO SET AN EASTER TABLE 1 To create this Easter tablescape, I used sage green linen for the main tablecloth and added a biscuit-coloured runner down the centre. You can buy linen by the metre in fabric stores. I arranged the runner with bud vases filled with white blossom, white hellebores and peach tulips – flowers that are all now in season.

2 In between the flower vases I placed a mixture of different types of eggs collected from our

Girls. Sage-green candles and candle holders were interspersed between the flowers and eggs.

3 I used white tableware and rustic side plates, plus traditional white napkins.

On top, I laid a beautiful little homemade nest filled with quail’s eggs, which added such a special touch to the settings. To make each nest, I collected around 30 small malleable twigs and shaped them into a nest, using wire to hold them all together.

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Happy chickens are allowed to roam free range

Country lifestyle

KEEPING CHICKENS Find out what’s involved in raising a happy flock of hens and look forward to freshly laid eggs straight from your garden 118

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

LIFESTYLE

F

or many of us, a rural idyll includes contented chickens and fresh eggs daily. But keeping hens is not just the preserve of country dwellers. ‘There are now 1.2 million domestic fowl kept as pets in the UK. During lockdown, our waiting lists were longer than ever, with almost 30,000 hens reserved,’ says Jane Howorth, founder of the British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT). Before you go ahead, check there are no restrictions on keeping poultry in your area.

WHERE SHOULD I SOURCE CHICKENS?

‘We’d encourage everyone to adopt ex-commercial chickens. Every year we save 60,000 hens from slaughter and rehome as family pets,’ explains Jane.

If you do choose to buy your hens, Clare Taylor, The Chicken Whisperer, advises: ‘Some people buy hybrids from a supplier. These are easy “starter chickens”, bred to be hardy, placid and good layers.

Others will be attracted to the pretty plumage and varying sizes of pure breeds; these are usually sourced from specialist breeders.’ She advises that ‘ex-commercial hens can need more care, so might be better suited to a more experienced keeper’.

‘By adopting a hen, you have the power to save their life. They’re such a joy to have around,’ says Jane Howorth of BHWT

Aim for 30sq cm per bird inside their coop

HOW MUCH SPACE IS NEEDED TO KEEP HENS?

‘Start with a minimum of three hens; they’re social creatures and like to flock together. They need space to reduce unhealthy behaviour. Provide a minimum of 30sq cm per bird inside the hen house and 25cm perch space each. Outside, ex-caged birds need a minimum of 1sq m per bird, while ex-free range hens need 2sq m per bird,’ says Jane.

Ensure your space is secure from predators.

Enjoy freshly laid eggs each day

Hens are social so start with a flock of at least three

WHAT FOOD DO THEY NEED?

‘They have specific nutritional needs and there are many good feeds on the market. DEFRA has clear regulations on not feeding them kitchen scraps and animal by-products,’ says Clare. ‘The average hen needs around 100-120g of food a day,’ adds Jane.

FEATURE RACHEL CROW PHOTOGRAPHS BHWT, GETTY IMAGES, LEIGH CLAPP, FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

WHAT EQUIPMENT IS REQUIRED?

‘You need a robust coop, which comes apart for cleaning, plus a run,’ says Clare. You will also need feeders, drinkers, bedding, feed and various nutritional supplements before you start.

A coop should be water-tight, with perches and nest boxes

IS KEEPING CHICKENS TIME CONSUMING?

‘Allow about 15 minutes daily to feed, water and attend to health needs, plus an hour each week for cleaning out, mite-proofing and sanitising the coop, plus quarterly mite and worm treatments,’ says Clare.

Useful Resources X Find information and advice for both new and experienced hen keepers on bhwt.org.uk X The Chicken Whisperer runs beginner and advanced keeping courses, visit claretaylor.com X A Family Guide To Keeping Chickens: *QY VQ EJQQUG CPF ECTG HQT [QWT ƂTUV EJKEMGPU

by Anne Perdeaux (£12.99, Little Brown)

Allow space of at least 2sq m per bird in the run

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IN SEASON

Country Harvest IN SP I R AT I ON FR O M NATU R E’S L AR DE R

PICKINGS Blanch purple sprouting broccoli as you would asparagus – cook it in boiling water for three minutes, then refresh in cold. It should be tender on the outside and still crisp in the middle.

Roast the stalks with a drizzle of olive oil in the oven for a deeper flavour.

FEATURE ANDRÉA CHILDS PHOTOGRAPH GETTY IMAAGES

Zest up with orange or lemon juice, sprinkle with chilli flakes, or toss in sesame oil.

PURPLE SPROUTING BROCCOLI With its shaggy leaves and colourful mop-top florets, purple sprouting broccoli brightens the winter dinner table. Its flavour is sweet and nutty and you can eat it all, from shoot to tip; simply trim the end of the stalk and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Sow from April to June to harvest early the next year; or plant seeds now for an early winter crop.

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Lunch with friends KATIE AND GIANCARLO CALDESI COMBINE HEARTY FLAVOURS AND SIMPLE INGREDIENTS IN A RUSTIC FEAST THAT’S PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING THE EASTER WEEKEND

PROVENCAL-STYLE TART WITH SMOKED SALMON, CREME FRAICHE & CHIVES

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GOOD FOOD

ROAST CHICKEN WITH MUSHROOM & CREAM SAUCE

GOOD FOOD

PROVENCAL-STYLE TART WITH SMOKED SALMON, CREME FRAICHE & CHIVES

ROAST CHICKEN WITH MUSHROOM & CREAM SAUCE SERVES 6

SERVES 4

This makes a delicious pastry that is easy to work with, doesn’t need to be rested and can be topped with a creamy filling and whatever you have in the fridge.

This is very straightforward to make and we love it with sautéed greens. I have given you the recipe for an easy creamy sauce with crème fraîche and mushrooms, or you could serve it instead with a simple gravy.

FOR THE PASTRY 175g ground almonds

FOR THE FILLING 150ml soured cream or

1.8kg chicken 1 head of garlic, halved

FOR THE MUSHROOM & CREAM SAUCE (optional)

25g Parmesan cheese, finely grated

creme fraiche 1 large egg

horizontally A small handful of fresh

500g chestnut mushrooms,

½tsp xanthan gum 1tsp baking powder

150g smoked salmon A small handful of chives,

thyme or 1 heaped tsp dried thyme

halved if large 150ml dry white wine

¼tsp salt

finely sliced

50g butter

150ml chicken stock

30g butter or lard, softened

A large handful of rocket Salt and freshly ground

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

200g crème fraîche

1 egg

black pepper

1 Preheat the oven to 220C/Gas 7 and cut 2 pieces of baking parchment to fit your oven tray.

2 To make the pastry, put all the ingredients into a mixing bowl with 2tbsp water and use a metal spoon to mix them together thoroughly.

Use your hands to bring the mixture into a ball.

3 Transfer the pastry to one of the pieces of baking parchment. Put the other piece over the top and roll out the pastry to form a rectangle measuring about 32x23cm; it will be about 5mm thick. Don’t worry if you need to cut off pieces and replace them to achieve a rectangle.

4 Peel off the top sheet of parchment. Slide the parchment and pastry onto the oven tray. Use the parchment to fold the edges in on themselves to make a 1cm raised border around the outside to trap in the filling.

5 Mix the soured cream and egg together and season with salt and pepper. Pour this mixture into the pastry tart and scatter over strips of the salmon and chives.

6 Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown on the edges and top. Serve hot, warm or at room temperature, topped with the rocket.

1 Preheat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Put the chicken into a roasting tin. Tuck the garlic halves under the chicken and put the thyme into the cavity. Use a knife to spread the butter evenly over the breast. Season all over with ¾ teaspoon of salt and some pepper.

2 Roast for 1 hour, then baste the bird with the cooking juices that have collected in the tin.

3 Add the mushrooms around the edges, if you are making the mushroom and cream sauce, and toss to coat in the fat. Add a little more seasoning over the mushrooms. Continue to cook for a further 30 minutes or until done.

4 Check the chicken is cooked by inserting a temperature probe into the bird in the thickest part. It should be over 80C. If you don’t have one, insert a skewer into the thickest part of the bird, usually above the leg and into the breast.

The juices should run clear and not pink.

5 Remove the tin from the oven and pull out the thyme sprigs from the cavity. Add these to the tin.

6 Put the chicken on a warm dish and lightly cover with foil and a cloth to keep it warm.

Leave it to rest for 20 minutes.

7 Put the tin over a medium heat. Add the white wine and bring to the boil. Scape off the brown bits from the bottom of the tray and squeeze out the garlic. Discard the skins and pick out the thyme stems. Let the wine reduce by half or until the smell of alcohol has turned sweet.

8 To make the mushroom and cream sauce, stir in the stock and crème fraîche. Taste and add seasoning as necessary. Transfer the sauce to a warm serving bowl and serve with the chicken.

SAAG-STYLE KALE & PANEER

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GOOD FOOD

SAAG-STYLE KALE & PANEER

MINI PAVLOVAS

SERVES 4 AS A MAIN OR 6 AS A SIDE

SERVES 8

This is traditionally made with spinach but I experimented recently with some leftover curly kale and it worked brilliantly. Now it is made with whatever I have in the fridge or garden, including cavolo nero, Swiss chard, spinach, sprout tops, spring greens or Savoy cabbage.

500g kale, Swiss chard, spinach, spring greens or

chopped or grated 1 hot green or red chilli,

Our patisserie chef, Stefano Borella, loves a challenge. While he was caramelising a lemon tart using inulin, a powdered insoluble fibre derived from chicory, he wondered about using it for meringues, combined with the sweetness of erythritol, a zero-calorie natural sweetener made from fermented sugar beets. It worked brilliantly and now you can eat meringue with a wonderful flavour and still be sugar free.

cabbage, stems removed and finely chopped

finely chopped, or 1tsp chilli flakes

FOR THE MERINGUES

2tbsp erythritol

2tbsp ghee or 1tbsp butter and 1tbsp olive oil

1tsp cumin seeds 1tsp ground turmeric

50g erythritol 50g inulin powder

or 2tsp honey (optional) FOR THE TOPPING

200g paneer, cut into

120ml double cream

3 egg whites

200ml whipping cream

FOR THE COULIS 200g raspberries

2tsp vanilla extract 400g fresh berries

1tsp vanilla extract

8 small mint leaves

1.5cm or bite-sized cubes Salt and freshly ground 3 fat garlic cloves, finely black pepper

1 Boil the kale or other greens in salted water for 10 minutes or until soft. Drain and set aside.

2 Heat the ghee in a deep frying pan or saucepan over a medium–high heat and fry the paneer on all sides until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the paneer from the pan and set aside.

3 Add the garlic, chilli and spices to the pan with some salt and pepper and fry over a medium heat for 1 minute, making sure that the garlic doesn’t burn.

4 Add the drained kale and the paneer to the pan and stir through for a few minutes until hot.

Add the cream and stir again to heat through.

Taste and adjust the seasoning.

5 Serve straight away or keep and reheat. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

1 Preheat the oven to 110C/Gas ¼. Line a large baking sheet with baking parchment.

2 Make sure your mixing bowl is dry and greasefree. Powder the erythritol in a food processor so it resembles icing sugar. Mix in the inulin.

3 Whisk the egg whites until they have formed an opaque foam with soft peaks. Add the erythritol and inulin mixture 1tbsp at a time.

4 Keep whisking until you have a stiff, glossy foam. Use a metal spoon to shape meringues about 6–8cm wide and 5cm apart on the prepared baking sheet – they should be about 3cm high. Create a dip in the centre for the cream. You can also do this with a piping bag.

5 Bake the meringues for 45–50 minutes until set but still flexible and lightly browned.

Remove them from the oven and leave to cool.

They are best left out and will keep for 4 days.

6 Make the coulis by blending the raspberries, vanilla and the erythritol. Sieve to remove pips.

7 Whip the cream with the vanilla to form soft peaks. Just before serving, spoon the cream over the meringues and top with the fruit and mint leaves. Serve with the coulis on the side.

The Low Carb WeightLoss Cookbook by Katie and Giancarlo Caldesi (£20, Kyle Books)

MINI PAVLOVAS

COOK’S TIP:

MOST OF THE DESSERT CAN `BE MADE AHEAD BUT THE PAVLOVA SHOULD BE ASSEMBLED JUST BEFORE SERVING

a

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The April garden...

Sow Grow Show WHAT TO PLANT, THIS MONTH’S GREEN-FINGERED TASKS, AND DISPLAYS TO ENJOY. IT’S GARDENING FROM THE GROUND UP

IN BLOOM Forget-me-nots Legend says the Greek god Zeus named all plants, except this starry-eyed flower, which pleaded: ‘forget me not’. It loves moist, well-drained soil in borders or shady spots, where it will self-seed.

Auriculas Traditionally grown in terracotta pots and displayed in a ‘theatre’, these beauties sport a tutu rosette of petals.

Keep in a cool spot.

Ranunculus Rose-like blooms with tissue-thin petals, these are a favourite for bouquets. Plant the corms in autumn, ready for cut flowers in spring.

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GARDENING

PLANT CARE & PRUNING With spring in full swing, there is much to look forward to and do in the gardening schedule. As the ideal conditions for cultivating and sowing arrive, the planting year can get off to a good start. Check for any pests and diseases, keep on top of weeding, continue to divide perennials, prune hydrangeas and pinch out the tips of fuchsias.

1 CLEAN the greenhouse with warm soapy water to let in more sunlight and get rid of any pests and diseases.

3 OF THE BEST

Flowers to sow

FEATURE RACHEL CROW; CONTRIBUTIONS FROM SARAHRAVEN.COM, HAWKSTONEHALL.CO.UK PHOTOGRAPHS (GRASS SEED) FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM, (EVERGREEN, FORGET-ME-NOTS) ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, (GREENHOUSE, FRUIT TREE) GETTY IMAGES, (KALE) SHUTTERSTOCK/KIKI ANGGRAINI, (CUCUMBER) SHUTTERSTOCK/WEHA, (BEETROOT) STOCK.ADOBE.COM/SCHANKZ, (FLOWERS TO SOW) SARAH RAVEN/JONATHAN BUCKLAND

2 MOVE any evergreen trees and shrubs once all threat of frosts has passed and if the ground is not waterlogged.

Continue to sow hardy annuals outdoors, as well as native wildflowers and sweet peas at the base of supports. ‘Any under-cover sowing is now the job to be done,’ explains plantswoman Sarah Raven, who recommends some of her favourites to sow under cover in April for fantastic cut flowers this summer and autumn.

3 FEED fruit trees and bushes with a slow-release fertiliser around their base of the plants to boost the new season’s fruit crops.

ZINNIA ELEGANS have a long picking season, and spectacular, huge flowers with an excellent vase life.

The ‘Giant Dahlia Mix’ (above) is a wonderful blend of oranges, reds, pinks and yellows. We sow zinnias under cover in guttering around mid April, to avoid root disturbances when planting out. Harden off seedlings before planting out after the spring frosts. Pinch out the tips as you plant to encourage more flowers. They will flower from July until October.

4 SOW new grass seed on prepared soil to reinvigorate your lawn; keep the ground moist while the seeds germinate.

IN THE VEGETABLE PATCH Mr Mitford, kitchen gardener at Hawkstone Hall, shares what to plant this month

BABY KALE is one of the easiest brassica to grow.

Sow in nutrient-rich soil in seed beds and water well – they should start producing baby greens in a few weeks. Try sowing seeds wellspaced in large pots.

BEETROOT is always a winner and if planted now will be ready to enjoy in the summer.

Sow in loose, fertile soil, spreading the sowing over a number of weeks to prolong the period of harvest.

CUCUMBER should be planted once the soil has warmed, and many tend to ripen near autumn, so planting now will produce ample fruits.

They thrive in warmer environments so will do well in the greenhouse.

TITHONIA ROTUNDIFOLIA ‘Torch’ is one of my favourite summer and autumn flowers, with luxurious, orange flowers for autumn picking.

Sow the seeds of these plants, known as Mexican sunflowers, under cover now and plant them out in May to July. They like lots of sun and grow tall, so may need staking. They will flower four months after sowing, between July to September.

XEROCHRYSUM BRACTEATUM ‘Salmon Rose’ is a mix of every tone of coffee, peach and salmon. The whole strawflower brigade looks good dried through the year. Sow seed thinly indoors, pressing gently onto the surface of compost and keep moist. Once seedlings emerge (within one to two weeks), pot on and move to a cooler position before planting out in May to June, after the last frosts, for flowers from July to October.

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GARDEN IDEAS

Alliums and tulips make a beautiful display in spring

LATE-SPRING BULBS Making the transition between spring and summer, these jewel-box delights will fill your garden with an explosion of colour

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Mix varieties of tulips for a wonderful effect

3 SPRI NG GAR DENS TO VISIT KNIGHTSHAYES Tiverton, Devon EX16 7RQ. The 19th-century formal and woodland gardens boast one of the most varied plant collections in the country, nationaltrust.org.uk.

PASHLEY MANOR GARDENS Ticehurst, East Sussex TN5 7HE. Enjoy the marvellous spring tulip festival display in late April/early May from nearly 50,000 bulbs, pashleymanorgardens.com.

RHS GARDEN WISLEY Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB. See swathes of bulbs planted around blossoming cherry trees, rhs.org.uk.

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here is a wonderful choice of late-flowering spring bulbs that will carry the floral display in your garden into the colourful days of summer. Whether plugging the gaps in herbaceous borders left by their early flowering cousins, or planted in pots to enliven patios and courtyards, these late bloomers are a joy to behold.

‘Alliums make an amazing late-spring display in shades from cerise, purple through to white,’ says Jess Evans, head gardener at Knighthayes in Devon. ‘Erythroniums, or dog’s tooth violets, are one of the loveliest bulbs to naturalise in your garden and there are many different species of Fritillaria that can be grown.’

Many bulbs will naturalise in turf, coming back year after year, while ‘tulips, daffodils and most other bulbs do well in containers planted to one and a half times their depth’, advises Guy Barter, chief horticulturist at RHS Garden Wisley.

Plant spring bulbs between October to February, ‘but get them in before they start to shoot,’ advises Greg Ovenden, head gardener at Pashley Manor Gardens. ‘Store bulbs in a cool dark place until you are ready to plant them.’

If planting tulips in beds, ‘make sure the soil is well forked over, and plant them at a trowel’s depth, or a bit deeper if you intend to leave them in for more than one season. Mulch the beds after planting, but before they start showing new growth,’ adds Greg.

All your hard work will be repaid in spades when your garden is a sea of colour for months on end.

GARDEN IDEAS

1

2

3

Bulb bonanza 1 ‘Crocus like full sun so suit rockeries, raised beds and pots,’ says Guy. 2 ‘Crown Imperial likes a herbaceous border with good sun,’ says Jess.

3 Alliums go well in a mixed herbaceous border. Jess suggests ‘Purple Sensation’.

FEATURE RACHEL CROW PHOTOGRAPHS (OPENING IMAGE, ALLIUM, DAFFODIL) LEIGH CLAPP, (TULIPS OPPOSITE, CROCUS, LILIES) GETTY IMAGES, (CROWN IMPERIAL) NATIONAL TRUST/LAURENCE PERRY, (DOG’S TOOTH VIOLET) NATIONAL TRUST/RAY DALE, (SNAKE’S HEAD) NATIONAL TRUST/JOHN MILLAR, (TULIP) KATE WILSON

4 Daffodils (narcissus) bring the brightest and longest spring colour.

5 ‘Dog’s tooth violets (erythroniums) enjoy a soil rich in organic humus,’ says Jess.

6 Lilies (lilium) do very well in pots of rich peat-free potting compost.

7 ‘For late-season colour try Tulipa ‘Menton’, which turns from pink to salmon orange,’ advises Greg.

4

8 ‘Snake’s head fritillary (Fritillaria meleagris) naturalise in grassy areas and woodland-style gardens,’ says Jess.

5

6

7

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PRETTY PERGOLAS Add shade, privacy and a beautiful feature to your garden with a thoughtfully designed pergola

This oak structure, covered by climbing roses, was created by designer Jo Thompson and leads to a secluded place to sit and relax

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GARDEN IDEAS

A

private enclosure, a frame for rambling roses, a secret spot in the shade – there are many reasons to place a pergola in your garden. Perhaps you want it to shelter an eating area, provide vertical interest, frame a pathway or create structure.

Whatever the function is, there’s a shape, size and style of pergola to suit your garden. ‘A pergola needs to have a purpose. Usually it is to lead you somewhere, forming a focal point, or creating a sense of division by adding a layer in the garden that isn’t a solid boundary,’ explains garden designer Jo Thompson.

‘It should be integral to the layout of the garden, instead of an afterthought. Carefully considering views to and from a pergola is key to enabling it to feel connected to the space,’ adds Harriet Farlam of Farlam and Chandler.

The placement of a pergola is key, ‘so that it does not block the flow of the garden. It also needs to be proportionally correct so that it does not over-dominate the space’, explains garden designer Fi Boyle.

There are many options for materials and finish, but these need to tie in and ‘fit with the character and personality of the individual garden’, adds Harriet Farlam.

Used over a dining area, pergolas can create a feeling of privacy and separation

SHADE & SHELTER As our summers get hotter, a pergola is the perfect way to create a semi-shaded area in a sunny garden, but it can also provide shelter in the evening. ‘The overhead canopy, whether this is covered in climbing plants or a simple timber slatted surface, can offer a buffer from the wind and protection from rain. It should be well located with good circulation if it is to be used all year,’ suggests Harriet Farlam. ‘A wisteria could be grown up one of the uprights and trained over the top, which will create dappled shade. Or for more consistent shade, sail-type screens can be attached to the underside of the roof,’ adds Fi Boyle. >

‘Where you place your pergola is key. It should be a destination, with a purpose,’ says garden designer Fi Boyle

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PLANTING

A swing bench in a quiet corner of this country garden is shaded by a pergola by Ali Paterson Garden Design

This project by David Loy combines a traditional garden with a contemporary steel pergola, softened by vibrant perennials

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In a more traditional setting, adorn a pergola with climbing plants for additional screening and a natural aesthetic. ‘Training wires up the posts can help twining plants establish quickly. If you’re planting in paving, make sure that the climbers have plenty of space to root into,’ explains John Wyer, CEO of garden design company Bowles & Wyer. Supporting wires may need to be considered for both the horizontals and verticals.

For plants, ‘wisteria is robust and long lived with scented blossom; Akebia quinata, or chocolate vine, has scented purple flowers; or try the perennials Humulus lupulus ‘Aureus’ (golden hop) or the flame nasturtium Tropaeolum speciosum,’ suggests John Wyer.

‘In the long term, many climbing plants can get very big,’ says Barry Chambers of Garden Design Guru.

Consider less vigorous varieties so there is less need for pruning in the future. ‘A deciduous climber, such as Jasmine officinale, will also allow a lot more light through in winter, which may be preferable,’ he adds.

MATERIALS A pergola might be an elegant thin metal frame or a characterful oak structure. ‘Most traditional pergolas are constructed from wood with the horizontals having shaped ends that extend beyond the frame. A more modern look can be achieved by squaring up the ends and corners, or the pergola could be constructed out of metal to give it a clean, modern feel. Corten steel will develop a beautiful deep-orange rusty patina, or powder-coated or painted metal will create a more slick finish,’ suggests Fi Boyle.

‘If you are using timber posts, it is best to use a steel shoe, otherwise the post may rot at soil level. For an Arts and Crafts look, try using brick columns with timber beams,’ recommends John Wyer.

CREATING ZONES The use of pergolas to demarcate different parts of the garden is numerous. ‘They can be positioned

GARDEN IDEAS

to create a transition from a patio area to the lawn,’ suggests architect and garden designer Ali Paterson. It can provide a view through to the garden beyond, while creating a feeling of privacy and separation over a dining area. ‘Hanging a simple outdoor pendant from the pergola will bring light and extend the use of the space into the evening,’ suggests Harriet Farlam.

As structures, pergolas can create a sense of division ‘but without creating a blunt delineation of the space’, says Jo Thompson. They can also link the house with the garden. ‘Sometimes the wall of a building can look a little stark or severe, but a pergola helps ground it,’ explains John Wyer.

‘Climbers needs their “feet in the shade, head in the sun”,’ says John Wyer

Choose a colour that will blend in beautifully with your planting scheme

FEATURE RACHEL CROW PHOTOGRAPHS (BLUE WOOD PERGOLA) LEIGH CLAPP, (SWING) WALTER DIRKS, (FI BOYLE PERGOLA) HEATHER EDWARDS, (CHECK TABLECLOTH) JODY STEWARD

VERTICAL INTEREST Pergolas undeniably bring height and character. ‘The style of the garden will dictate the most appropriate form and whether you want to set it within planting. In a modern space with a clean, minimal feel, surrounding it with planting may not be so appropriate,’ says Fi Boyle. ‘Often we plant trees around a pergola to help anchor it to the garden. A row of pleached trees or a tree positioned either side will bring a softness to the structure,’ says Harriet Farlam.

SIZE OF STRUCTURE ‘When including a pergola in your garden design, the size of it is important. Make sure it won’t overwhelm the garden but that it will also be large enough to be practical,’ advises John Wyer.

A common mistake is to make a pergola too narrow and too low.

‘The size and dimensions of the uprights and overall frame will need to be considered carefully as these really alter the feel of it,’ explains Fi Boyle.

Take into account, too, the additional space required by planting. ‘One should anticipate the bulk of mature climbers, whether this be a rambling rose or winter jasmine, which might need two to three feet clearance underneath,’ explains Ali Paterson.

OUR EXPERT SAYS...

A PERGOLA SHOULD ` BE CONNECTED WITH AND INTEGRAL TO THE SPACE a HARRIET FARLAM, GARDEN DESIGNER

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One of three retired railway carriages, each with their own deck and firepit

A weekend at

Settle

LUXURIOUS RUSTIC STAYS NESTLED IN REMOTE NORFOLK PARKLAND

The rustic retired goods carriages have been lovingly restored

Settle, Larling Road, Shropham, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 1EA. Tents from £95; carriages from £250; cabin from £300, all per night for two, settlenorfolk.co.uk 138

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FEATURE SHARON PARSONS PHOTOGRAPHS INDIA HOBSON

S

ettle is a word defined in the dictionary as becoming quiet and calm; relaxed and comfortable; finding a place to be. Such descriptive terms were carefully considered when Jo and John Morfoot began creating their unique venture which offers guests an opportunity to slow down, unwind and reset.

The idea for such a tranquil haven came to the couple several years ago, combining their love of nature and the great outdoors with an appreciation for a simple, honest aesthetic. Settle lies within 30 acres of parkland in Breckland in south Norfolk, an area steeped in ancient history. It was also here, nearly 50 years ago, that a young John and his father – who’d bought the land with a friend at auction – planted 50 species of trees, established a wildlife meadow and dug a small lake to accompany a larger one (John has since created a third).

Today, this is the perfect haven for guests to experience true slow living, staying in characterful accommodation.

The Cabin is a timber-clad lakeside retreat combining natural materials with mid-century furnishings, a crackling wood burner and a show-stopping stone egg bath. Then there are three retired railway goods carriages providing the cosiest of stays – each has a wood fire, bijou kitchen, bathroom, and deck complete with firepit. Finally, stargazers will love the Canvas Camp which comprises two luxury safari tents boasting vintage furnishings, a super-comfy double bed and electricity. A communal outdoor kitchen and shower block is close by.

Jo and John have collaborated with local food producers and artisans to provide everything from the delicious hampers that await guests on arrival to the premium crafted items found in all the accommodation, some of which is available to buy in the charming little shop on site.

Far from the crowds and everyday demands, this unique rural enclave promises to work its soothing magic.

TRAVEL

Settle’s cabins, carriages and tents are set in 30 acres of private parkland, with its own lake

While you’re there...

WYKEN VINEYARD

WYMONDHAM

This characterful Suffolk farm is home to an awardwinning vineyard; the acclaimed Leaping Hare restaurant; a pizza café; delightful country store and a bountiful Saturday farmers’ market, wykenvineyards.co.uk.

From the old market square to the magnificent abbey, this south Norfolk town is brimming with history. Today, an array of lovely shops, restaurants and traditional pubs make it a great place to visit, explorenorfolkuk.co.uk.

KNETTISHALL HEATH NATURE RESERVE This ancient heathland extends to over 430 acres.

With six trails around the reserve, expect to see wild ponies and grazing cattle, along with a wealth of plants and birds, suffolkwildlifetrust.org.

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C O U N T R Y D AY S

Using a book is an easy way to press flowers

Pressed flowers make beautiful gift tags

MY COUNTRY PASSION

Flower pressing FEATURE TARA KING *ONLY PICK FLOWERS THAT ARE NOT ENDANGERED, PRIVATELY OWNED OR IN PUBLIC PARKS. VISIT GARDENINGETC.COM FOR MORE DETAILS

Designer and shop owner Claire Holland’s childhood love of nature and flower pressing has become a lifelong passion, one that’s now instilled in her children too Flower pressing holds so many childhood memories for me. I grew up in a remote part of the Scottish Borders, and my tiny village school would hold a flower pressing competition every summer. I took it very seriously! My home was surrounded by fields filled with wildflowers; I’d spend hours searching and I can still remember the excitement I felt when I discovered them. I often relive that feeling when I’m searching for flowers now; it’s very comforting.

Simply being outdoors has such a positive impact on my wellbeing.

I never get bored of marvelling at what nature creates, and flowers are one of its most beautiful manifestations. When my children were younger, they’d bring me fistfuls of buttercups, forget-me-nots and meadowsweets when we went

out on country walks. Not wanting to discard them, I began putting them in books to preserve them. Now, the books in my workroom are filled with countless specimens.

Spring is a gift for those who wish to start experimenting with flower pressing. Tête-à-tête daffodils, snowdrops, fritillaries, forget-menots and geums all work particularly well. Don’t forget leaves either, and bluebells too – these have special meaning for me as my husband proposed to me in a bluebell forest.

I picked some at the time to press and still have them to this day.

It’s always best to press flowers (particularly wild ones) as soon as you’ve picked them – the fresher the better*. I take a small notebook out and about with me, so I can press them on the go, then I transfer them to a larger book when I get home. I

put blotting paper either side of the flowers to avoid damaging the pages and leave them for at least two weeks before opening them up again. It’s such a wonderful surprise to see how they’ve turned out. Make sure you remember which books you’ve used though – I’ve lost count of the times I’ve forgotten and had to pull each one off the shelf!

A few years ago, I created a pressed flower artwork to hang up on my bathroom wall, and I’ve continued making them since then.

I’d encourage anyone to give it a try; it’s so much fun experimenting, and the results are so satisfying.

Find out more...

Discover Claire’s beautiful artworks as well as more tips on how to press flowers at paperthinmoon.com

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C O U N T R Y D AY S

A DAY IN THE COUNTRY WITH...

Jack Savoretti & Jemma Powell MUSICIAN JACK AND ARTIST JEMMA BRING CREATIVITY, COLOUR – AND NONNA’S PESTO – TO FAMILY LIFE IN THE COTSWOLDS

I love to wake up before the madness of family life kicks in.

The light is incredible as the sun rises so I love to paint at this time.

It’s very peaceful and a great time to get creative. My studio is next to the kitchen and I love to paint among the hustle and bustle of family NKHG s QHVGP VJGTGoU PQ EJQKEG + ƂPF when there is lots of noise and the kids are running about, my paintings TGƃGEV VJKU YKVJ NQVU QH DTKIJV EQNQWTU and strong energetic brush strokes.

When I’m calmer in the morning, my work tends to become more peaceful looking.

Jack’s recording studio and grand piano is in the sitting room at the other end of the house. This makes our creative spaces somewhat the bookends of our home. Writing, painting and music is all part of our daily routine, and the kids naturally join in – we never force them, but if they want to, the option is there.

We often go out for breakfast.

There’s a wonderful cafe in our village called Quince and Clover, which is run by friends and is a lovely 146

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

place to go at the weekend. They do delicious coffee and breakfast, and I can take time to update my Instagram @powell.jemma.art as VJCVoU JQY C NQV QH EQNNGEVQTU ƂPF O[ work. Next door there is Sweetpeas QH )TGCV 6GY ƃQYGT UJQR YJGTG + DW[ ƃQYGTU VQ RCKPV (NQTCN FGUKIPGT Willow Crossley is also a friend and is local; I love painting her creations.

Lunch is a good Sunday roast. Or Jack will make a favourite pesto recipe that comes from his nonna. Having friends over for lunch or dinner is our absolute favourite thing to do. There’s nothing better than a full house, with lots of food and plenty of good wine.

We’ll go for a stroll in the afternoon. Walking is something we enjoy as a family all year round but it also gives me a chance to absorb the landscape and colours and gather ideas in my mind for paintings. The area around Great Tew has incredible walks with some stunning views – and we love a drink in the village pub, the (CNMNCPF #TOU YJGP YG CTG FQPG A hot salt bath and a gin and tonic is the perfect way to end the day. Jack partnered up with the OCMGTU QH 2QTVQƂPQ &T[ )KP YJKEJ KU OCFG KP 2QTVQƂPQ VJG KPURKTKPI Italian village where he spent summers as a child. I like it with lots of ice and a good tonic.

See Jemma’s work at Cricket Fine Art gallery, London; she has a solo show this autumn. Find Jack’s Portofino Gin at drinkspirited.co.uk

FEATURE ANDREA CHILDS PHOTOGRAPHS ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, GETTY IMAGES

We love being at home. Jack travels a lot for work so when he’s back here in the UK, our home near Chipping Norton in the Cotswolds is our favourite place to be together as a family. Our perfect day in the country is spent with our three children, Connie, Winter and Celeste, and our three dogs, Maggie, Milou and Peggy. We’d probably have close friends and extended family with us, too.

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