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MORE INSPIRATIONAL HOMES THAN ANY OTHER MAGAZINE

AUGUST 2019

HOMES LIGHT AND BRIGHT Airy houses oozing summer style

Blue-sky spaces for seasonal entertaining

INSPIRED DECORATING

Beautiful colour schemes to love EYE FOR DESIGN

An intriguing conversion in Derbyshire

August 2019

128 town

country

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n at u r e ’ s b o u n t y This converted

former schoolhouse in Sweden is enveloped in a calming verdant setting t r e a s u r e t r o v e Mementos of happy times spent in foreign lands fill a Fifties family home in Oxfordshire s i m p l e p l e a s u r e s Pale, pastel and pared-back were the design watchwords for a Victorian villa in Suffolk s e c o n d s i g h t Despite their initial misgivings, a repeat viewing convinced one couple that a tired Fifties house in Warwickshire was the home for them

36 53 58

cover story

r u r a l p u r s u i t Seeking a country

retreat, one owner found not only a bucolic Berkshire home, but two acres of woodland, too p r e s e r v i n g t h e p a s t The historic features of this Worcestershire barn won its owners over at first sight the heart of the home

Colour, character and sociable spaces transformed a cottage in Cork c h a n g e o f s c e n e A design studio in Derbyshire has been reimagined as a base for its owners, who also run their own independent cinema on the ground floor

This light-filled kit house in Sweden was a passion project for its owner (page 104).

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25bh | c o nte nt s

14 82 96 124

c r e at i v e t h i n k i n g How a 17th-century

stone farmhouse in Warwickshire has evolved to suit generations of family living h o m e t o s tay This Georgian manor house in Berkshire convinced one family to up sticks to the country c o n v e r t e d i n c o l o u r A vibrant mix of art and furniture fills this 200-year-old barn in Yorkshire

city 24 42 49

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f a m i ly f av o u r i t e How one interior designer

in need of a home for her young brood seized the chance to renovate a run-down Victorian terrace n at u r a l b e a u t y An eco-friendly ethos sets the tone in a historic Copenhagen townhouse t h e r i g h t m o v e This elegant Georgian apartment in Glasgow convinced its owner to relocate s c a n d i n av i a n b l e n d Nordic design touches are perfectly at home in a Victorian semi in London s m a l l i s b e a u t i f u l A sensitive restoration means this bijou townhouse in Winchester is big on style i n f o r a s u r p r i s e Although a sudden move and a taxing renovation of a London period terrace wasn’t on this family’s agenda, they jumped in feet first

c oa s ta l 28 70 78 100

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o n t h e r i g h t p at h A For Sale sign seen on a walk

led two house-hunters to a Cornish barn ripe for renovation o n a m i s s i o n t o m o d e r n i s e These owners wasted no time updating their Victorian villa in Brighton a n e w t i d e This striking new build beside the River Dart occupies the site of a cherished former family home i s l a n d a d v e n t u r e The natural textures of this Ibiza barn echo its idyllic mountaintop location sum m er m ag ic One owner fulfilled a cherished dream of building a holiday home on a Swedish archipelago s e a s i d e e s c a p e A Victorian terrace in East Sussex proved irresistible to a pair looking to leave urban life behind making wav es These design-conscious owners demolished a rickety cottage and built a modern family home in a stunning clifftop setting in Cornwall o u t wa r d b o u n d A modernist extension to this Eighties home in Australia beautifully suits outdoor living

r e g u l a r f e at u r e s 110 123 134 142 4 | 2 5 b h au g us t 2019

t r av e l o f f e r Luxury European river cruises t r av e l o f f e r Exquisite escorted tours w h e r e t o b u y Find stockists listed in this issue here r o o m e n v y The scheme that’s inspired us this month

SUMMER SALE NOW EXTENDED HANDMADE IN THE UK SHOWROOMS NATIONWIDE Request a free brochure harveyjones.com

25bh | e d ito r ’s le t te r 25 bEAuTIFuL

HomeS ediTorial

welcome The mood of the moment is powerful and positive. In interiors, anyway.

Colour and pattern have come to the fore, giving rise to confident interiors that have a strong look. I am thrilled about this step change. While I still love neutral, calm spaces, it is great to see well-designed off-beat homes in the mix. As I have said before, at 25BH we firmly believe in showing you variety – as long as they are real homes with passionate owners. We love imaginative projects, such as lighting designer Esther Patterson’s conversion in Derbyshire that’s full of eclecticism and vintage finds (page 58), as much as gorgeously simple Scandinavian-style houses, such as our dreamy cover story (page 104). With a light, bright vibe, this truly is an idyllic retreat. From this issue, we have carved up the edit of houses differently. Rather than labelling them stylistically, we are signposting the location: town, country, city or coastal. I hope this context offers a more useful steer as to what to expect. Let us know what you think! sarah spiTeri, ediTorial direCTor

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ediTorial direCTor SARAH SPITERI executive editor Kate French group Creative director Emma Williams group Chief sub editor Anne Esden Commercial editorial operations director Jane Akers homes Content Team editorial director Rhoda Parry Commissioning/interiors editor Fiona Mace head of art operations Alison Walter art editors Melanie Brown and Paula Jardine senior designer Christina McQuillan designer Charlotte Holland with thanks to Lara Evans and Rebecca Halverson head of subs operations Maxine Clarke hub Chief sub editor Jennifer Spaeth senior sub editor Marian McNamara

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fa m i ly u n i t Two former farm workers’ houses have been combined to create a spacious, colourful home

a light touch Vibrant hues and Scandinavian touches have refreshed this London period terrace

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Right now at Schmidt, enjoy our dizzy deals on our most beautiful models of kitchens, wardrobes and appliances. Offers as breathtaking as our creation for the extreme mountaineer Kenton Cool.Whether you live in a house, an apartment or on a mountainside, come in store or visit www.homedesign.schmidt

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EXTERIOR Boston ivy climbing over the front of the house creates a charming faÇade

nature’s bounty An old schoolhouse enabled artist Gunnel Sahlin to create a nourishing environment in which to live and work FEATURE Karen Jensen-Jones | PHOTOGRAPHy Johan sellén/living inside

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GARDEN Gunnel transformed the former gravel playground into a beautiful garden full of colour and creativity

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W home truths

THE PROPERTY An 1890s former schoolhouse L O C AT I O N Sörmland, Sweden R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, studio, two bedrooms, two bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 1998 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before moving here, we lived in an apartment in Stockholm,’ says Gunnel.

hen designer and artist Gunnel Sahlin and her partner Håkan viewed a former schoolhouse in Sörmland, just an hour’s drive away from Stockholm, she instantly felt drawn to the history and provenance of the building and, in particular, the light-filled school hall.

‘What could be more suitable for an artist than a house where you can feel the creativity in the building and benefit from the most incredible light from such enormous windows,’ explains Gunnel, who specialises in glass design. ‘The old school hall, with its nine magnificent windows, is everything you could possibly wish for in a studio, and the two handmade tables in the middle of the room provide ample space for my various projects. It’s such a nourishing environment to work in.’

Gunnel originally intended to buy the property as a summer house, but it ended up

being her main home where she has lived and worked for two decades. ‘The building needed very little structural improvement because it had been well-maintained over the years, with the original floors, doors and windows still in place,’ says Gunnel. ‘I’ve tried to be sensitive to the history of it with my renovations and colour palette.’

Colour is something that inspires Gunnel not only in her work but also in her home, and she has been particularly creative with her use of it in the kitchen. ‘I found an old bench in the school hall when I first moved here and it had such an unusual blue patina that I wanted to repeat it in the house,’ she recalls. ‘I mixed two shades of blue together and they created a beautiful hue that I never tire of. I painted the Ikea units myself, and after many years I still love the colour and wouldn’t want to change it.’

While renovating the school house, Gunnel was determined to retain as many

f a v o u r i t e f e a t u r e ‘The nine big windows in my studio are beautiful in their own right and I have amazing light to work in regardless of the weather’ StUDiO Undressed windows allow this nature-inspired scheme to blend well with the garden beyond.

Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn cushion cover, from £48, Made By U Design at Etsy. Take a look at the Type 75 floor lamp, £225, Heal’s. See the galvanised Tolix stool, £175.75, Tolix Shop

tow n | 25bh SittinG ROOM ‘i love to collect items from auctions and markets,’ says Gunnel.

Rug, from a selection, Gunnel Sahlin Design at Galleri Glas

h A L LWAY Simple storage makes good use of this area.

Try the Small Water Hyacinth square baskets, £20 each, Duck Barn Interiors

DininG ROOM Gunnel’s glassware designs lend subtle sophistication.

Glasswork by Gunnel Sahlin Design at Galleri Glas. Regolit paper lampshade, £1.75, Ikea

kitchen ‘i mixed diferent paint shades to create my own unique hue,’ says Gunnel.

Units in Oval Room Blue mixed with Light Blue estate eggshell, both £62 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball

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25bh | tow n B at H r O O m Original school furniture has been stylishly repurposed. black-and-white tiles, ÂŁ19.95sq m, walls and Floors

GarDeN rOOm the busy couple enjoy spending lazy afternoons in this secluded spot whenever they can

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

of the existing features as possible and not spoil any of the building’s endearing charm.

‘The only big change was to divide the hallway in half and build a bathroom where there once was a corridor where the children would hang their coats and eat lunch, but everything else is original,’ says Gunnel.

‘In Sweden, we’re eager to renovate but I’m always keen to try and preserve the past, which stems from visiting London when I was 16 years old, where I enjoyed looking at lots of beautiful old buildings,’ recalls Gunnel. ‘I also appreciate contemporary architecture, but I think it’s important to sensitively restore and respect the old and not be tempted to rip everything out. For instance, I love how the floorboards in our house are so worn that there are little bumps in the floor – it’s the smallest detail but it’s what I really enjoy. And being faithful to

the soul of the house is what creates such a harmonious atmosphere.’

During the renovations, Gunnel discovered no less than 12 layers of wallpaper, and under that a layer of plaster on the solid timber walls. ‘It was such a revelation to see the different layers of old paper peeling off the wall and it inspired me to take my time and allow the house to gently evolve,’ she says. ‘I felt there was no rush and it’s still a work in progress after all these years.’

Surrounding the house is the beautiful garden, which Gunnel crafted from what used to be the children’s playground. ‘I’m not keen on house maintenance as it isn’t as much fun as design and renovating, so my focus has moved to the outdoors,’ she laughs. ‘We love spending summer outside enjoying the views of the countryside, while still only being a short distance from the city.’

d e s i g n a d v i c e ‘Be faithful to the soul of your house and create harmony throughout – it’s important not to work against what is naturally already there’ master BeDrOOm each carefully chosen piece is steeped in history. try ebay for a vintage dentist chair like this one, around £240

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25bh | c o u ntry hallway

An old dresser base is the perfect spot for displaying Melissa’s collectables, including an antique papier-mâché horse.

Blind fabric, eckington, £120m, nicholas herbert

RURAL pURsUit With her heart set on leaving the city, Melissa Jones took on more than she’d bargained for when she fell for a beautiful but run down Georgian house Feature Stephanie Smith | PhotograPhy Colin poole

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home truths

the ProPerty Detached Georgian house L o C at I o N Berkshire r o o M S hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen-diner, utility room, cloakroom, six bedrooms, five bathrooms P u r C h a S e D July 2006 PreVIouS ProPerty ‘We lived in a Victorian house in london,’ says melissa.

kitchen

Melissa chose a relaxed modern-rustic look for this space, commissioning a local cabinetmaker to create the painted Shaker-style design. oak barstools, £160 each, l interiors. letter m, £15, tK maxx

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ollowing her dream of living in the countryside, Melissa Jones was convinced there had been a typing error on the estate agent details about the amount of land that came with the Georgian house she’d fallen in love with. ‘It said 60 acres, but I thought they meant six, so we drove out to see it, only to discover that it was correct,’ she says. ‘And the property included two areas of ancient woodland that would need specialist care.’

But Melissa and her partner, Jeremy Hewlett, weren’t deterred.

‘This was 13 years ago and we had two small children: Harry, now 16 | 2 5 b h AU G US T 2019

18, and Ottilie, now 16, and we wanted to bring our family up in the country. We’re all horse-mad, so we were looking for somewhere with enough space for stables.’

Originally a farmhouse built in 1825, the property stands on a hill in Berkshire with views for miles across the Kennet valley.

The couple soon realised that the house would need extensive renovation, a project that would take them many years. ‘It’s been a labour of love, restoring and extending the house, and learning how to look after the land, which hadn’t been managed for decades,’ says

c o u ntry | 25bh

SITTInG rOOM

In this older part of the house, soft colours and choice antiques create an inviting mood.

Sofas and coffee table, Christopher Coates Walker at The Antique French Chair Company

Melissa. ‘We’re only custodians really, and it’s important that the woodlands can be enjoyed by future generations.’

Having moved into the house in 2006, the couple took their time before embarking on any big changes to the interior. ‘There was only one bathroom upstairs, and the small kitchen was on the north side of the house. It was very dated, with dark colours everywhere,’ Melissa says. But, with the imminent birth of their youngest son Bear, now 12, the couple left any major building projects for several years, completing essential work only. ‘We

were surprised that the house wasn’t listed, but this worked in our favour as there are fewer restrictions,’ says Melissa.

The couple decided that the best option was a two-storey extension, which didn’t spoil the original façade, and the plans went through in 2013 without any problems. ‘This new addition has taken us from one bathroom to five, and from four bedrooms to six, so everyone has their own bedroom and we have two guest rooms.’

Downstairs, the new large open-plan kitchen is a light-filled space overlooking the garden and woods. Melissa hosts dinner 2 5 b h AU G US T 2019 | 17

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DESIGN TIP

‘Trust your instincts. The most important thing in a house is atmosphere.

Create a happy and welcoming vibe so that everyone loves coming to your home for you and not what’s in it’ GUeST BedrooM

‘This room is filled with the subtle shades of pink and grey that I love,’ says Melissa.

For a similar throw, try the Alpaca in grey, £140, John Lewis & Partners. the metal sconce was found at Newbury Antiques and Collectors Fair

MaIN BedrooM

‘I’m a fan of mixing old and new and so I’ve teamed our vintage French Aubusson rug with a smart new bed and the modern roll-top bath in my en suite, which is my sanctuary,’ says Melissa. the Skye upholstered king-size bed frame in topaz beige, £699, Croft Collection at John Lewis & Partners, has this look

parties and runs her business @thepopupkitchen1 here. ‘I’ve turned my passion for cooking, which was a hobby, into a catering business for private events,’ she says.

Part of the new extension remained a shell for nearly a year after it was built, but the couple slowly put the whole look together, using inherited objects, auction and saleroom finds, and a few new pieces.

They took care to find furniture that had the right proportions.

‘We have some large rooms, like the new kitchen where we wanted a huge table as we love entertaining. But other rooms in the old part of the house, such as the sitting room and the dining room, are 18 | 2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019

on a smaller scale, so we wanted to make sure these spaces are inviting and welcoming,’ says Melissa. She aimed for a lived-in, always-been-there look, with plenty of natural materials, such as wood, wool and stone. ‘I absolutely don’t do contemporary style and bright colours. I like muted soft colours: greys, blues and pinks.’

When it came to the extensive grounds, a management plan was put in place for the ancient woodlands and they’ve been thinned and coppiced over the last six years. ‘This has dramatically increased the light, and encouraged wildlife,’ says Melissa. ‘It’s like Springwatch from the kitchen windows.’ fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

TRE A SURE TROVE Georgia and James Broome have revived their once-neglected home by filling it with mementos from years living overseas FEATURE JANE CRITTENDEN | PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES FRENCH | STYLInG MARISHA TAYLOR

DINING AREA Kitchen cupboards were used to make the sideboard, which doubles as a desk.

Metod wall units, from £19; Veddinge grey doors, £13 each, all Ikea.

London Bus Blinds & Signs sells framed bus blinds, from £345

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eorgia and James Broome took design cues from a collection of varied and exciting times they had enjoyed while living in Brixton, Dubai and Toronto, plus Georgia’s childhood in the South of France, when they finally settled in their first family home in Oxfordshire. ‘I couldn’t wait to decorate and properly unpack all our belongings we’d collected over time,’ says Georgia, a furniture upcycler and interiors blogger at homemadeproductions.co.uk.

The couple bought the property a few years ago after finding a bilingual school for their

children, Olivia, seven, and Charlotte, five, who are fluent in French. At first, Georgia wasn’t interested in viewing this house, put off by a questionable loft conversion and side extension that didn’t meet building regulations. ‘By then we’d had offers rejected on six other properties and this place was the last on the shelf, so to speak,’ says Georgia. ‘It had been empty for two years and was in a poor state, but I was completely taken by the Fifties parquet floor.’

Space was another deciding factor, with the loft big enough to create an office for James, who works in software development. As was

home truths GARDEN Georgia designed the deck and pergola herself, inspired by outdoor living in their Canadian home.

Tolix-style metal side chairs, £59 each; Tolix-style metal stools, £45 each, both Cult Furniture

THE PROPERTY Fifties semi-detached house L O C AT I O n Oxfordshire R O O M S Sitting room, kitchen-diner, office, cloakroom, playroom, three bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2016 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before moving here, we were renting a semi-detached house in Toronto, Canada,’ says Georgia.

DESIGN TIP ‘Try to find interesting ways to reuse or upcycle pieces and you’ll end up with something completely unique’

SITTING ROOM Bursts of red complement the parquet flooring and introduce warmth. the Inventors red eiffel armchair, £67.99, only home, is similar. try h&M home’s velvet cushion cover in Dark blue, £6.99

tow n | 25bh GUEST BEDROOM A wardrobe is hidden behind a decorative wall, which also acts as a pretty headboard. boråstapeter wonderland hanna werning Vildtuta wallpaper in Midnight, £59 a roll, wallpaperdirect

GIRLS’ BEDROOM The elephant wall decoration came from a French flea market.

For a babar print, £12.99, see bvdbDesign on etsy. Mosslanda shelf, £9, Ikea

the chance to reconfigure the layout to suit their lifestyle, including adding an en-suite bathroom and creating a playroom for the girls.

Work got underway soon after the couple bought the house – with strict instructions to the builders to preserve the original parquet floor. Energy efficiency was a priority, and the property was remodelled with extra insulation, triple-glazed windows and A+ rated appliances.

Georgia picked a colour scheme of warm beige and grey with bright accents on walls, furniture and art. ‘The Blue was inspired by a collection of china and glass I inherited from grandparents,’ she says. ‘We already had the blue dining chairs, and painting our bedroom walls in a navy hue added warmth.’

An ethical approach to design led Georgia to buy end-of-line tiles, and use the kitchen worktop cut-offs for the pantry shelves and a small tabletop. She also experimented with upcycling craft projects, like making hanging plant holders using yarn from T-shirts, and now shares this know-how on her blog, where she also sells pre-loved furniture.

Most of the couple’s belongings have moved with them, marking the stepping stones of their life experiences. A framed London bus blind notes the routes Georgia and James used to travel, and framed old French school posters are a nod to Georgia’s childhood in France. The dining table and bed are from Dubai. ‘I like that our belongings tell a story,’ says Georgia.

The garden, finished last year, was the last project, and when the bifold doors are open Georgia says it is like the place doubles in size.

‘This was the house no one wanted and we’re proud of what we’ve achieved,’ she says. ‘It’s lovely to give our things a new lease of life and finally live somewhere that feels like home.’ fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

MASTER BEDROOM A group of artworks, including a drawing by Georgia’s dad, creates an interesting display.

Painted Lady 22 print, £75, Jessica harrison

2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019 | 23

sITTING ROOM Georgie chose to use muted tones throughout the interior to inspire a calm and relaxing atmosphere. try the Beatnik sofa in natural Linen Smoke, price on request, timothy oulton.

Bespoke artwork, Paul treasure Paintings. marble top side table is similar, ÂŁ249, Dwell

FA M I LY FAV O U R I T E A tired Victorian terrace proved an irresistible challenge for interior designer Georgie Scott, who needed a new home for her young brood FEATURE Karen JenSen-JoneS | PHOTOGRAPHY nIcK SmIth

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home truths

THE PROPERTY Victorian terraced house L O C AT I O N South London R O O M S hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, study, playroom, four bedrooms, (two en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2013 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We rented a flat nearby before moving here,’ says Georgie.

EXTERIOR This view from the garden shows the scope of the rear extension.

Sliding glass doors, price on application, IQ Glass

W

ith her heart set on living in familyfriendly Battersea, Georgie Scott had struggled to find a new home with a good-sized garden in such a central location – until she saw this Victorian terrace. ‘The most striking thing about this property was its sunny garden,’ says Georgie. ‘Most homes my husband Nick and I had viewed had tiny rear gardens, so it was such a joy to find a 40ft south-facing garden.’

The tired terrace was in need of a total refurbishment. ‘We changed everything,’ says Georgie. ‘We dug down the whole length of the house and added an extension on every level at the rear. At one point, there were no floors or walls, and the house was just a façade.’ Unperturbed by the work, Georgie was confident that her detailed plans and determination

would triumph. ‘It took nine months of planning,’ she says, ‘and most of that time was spent on agreeing the party walls. The excavation took us about a year. There were unexpected complications, such as the high water table, which delayed work further.’

With plans in place, the rooms began taking shape and Georgie’s vision of a light-filled kitchen-diner soon became a reality. ‘I had a clear idea of how I wanted the kitchen to look’ she says. ‘I wanted sliding doors with large windows to make the most of the garden, and soft grey warm wood-veneer units with a lighter island. The living room, just off the kitchen, is quite dark, and I wanted to give the kitchen a lighter atmosphere.

I chose tranquil colours to flow through both spaces so they naturally merge without an obvious join. I don’t like vivid hues, as I wanted to

create a calm, relaxed environment in contrast to the busy city outside.’

Despite the complex redesign, Georgie’s mantra is to keep things simple. ‘My ethos is that function comes first and style second. First and foremost, this is a home and it has to work well for our children, Ava, four, and Alex, 18 months. My dream sofa would be white but that’s not possible with a family, so I have a dark, hardwearing sofa I’ve lightened up with cushions. It’s all about compromise.’

After three years of work and attention to detail, Georgie and her family are reaping the rewards of this stylish house and its central location.

‘The garden is what makes this house feel like a home,’ says Georgie. ‘I feel lucky to live so near the city centre and yet we have our own garden and the park on our doorstep. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.’

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KITCHEN-DINER The chandelier is one of Georgie’s favourite pieces and was a surprise gift from her employer, Louise Bradley Interiors. thea chandelier, £7,950, Louise bradley. Cabinets, price on request, Motivo Casa. the helen dining chairs are a match, price on application, Paul Case Furniture.

Kilner jars, from £3.25 each, Amazon. bud vases have this look, £6 each, the white Company. the round rattan serving tray with handles is a match, £52, Kalinko

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H A L LWAY Antique lanterns adorn the round marble corner table. the square brass lantern is similar, £95, Nordic Mood

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AV A’ S B E D R O O M Animal prints, a hot-air balloon and neutral patchwork add fun.

Prints, £19 each, the Animal Print Shop

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LANDING A glass balustrade has a modern look.

Dulux white Mist is a comparable wall colour, £16 for 2.5L, b&Q

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GUEST BEDROOM Light cream and grey furnishings create a harmonious palette. try the St Ives lamps, £250 each, the white Company

8

B AT H R O O M The practical and stylish lines embody Georgie’s signature look. bespoke sink unit, Duravit

9

STUDY This space provides views over the London rooftops.

Similar bespoke desk, Meridiani

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

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KITCHEN

Original roof beams and natural wood add warmth and character to this former industrial space.

Metod units with ringhult doors, from ÂŁ135 each, ikea. nostalgia enamel dome pendant lights, ÂŁ45 each, nook London

28 | 2 5 b H au g uS T 2019

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On the right path A unexpected sign pointed designers Poppy Treffry and Justin Duance in the welcome direction of a striking and individual home FEATURE Sara Bird | PHOTOgRAPHY dan duCHarS/THe COnTenTed neST

home truths THE PROPERTY Converted barn L O C AT I O N Cornwall R O O M S Hallway, living area/ kitchen-diner, mezzanine area, snug, utility room, larder, cloakroom, three bedrooms (one en suite), two bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 2014 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before moving here, we lived in a two-bedroom terraced house in Penzance,’ says Poppy.

2 5 b H au g uS T 2019 | 29

W

HALLWAY

Old school lockers provide storage space for shoes.

The vintage upcycled industrial large sideboard, £699, VF Verty Furniture, has a similar feel.

Bekväm step stool, £13, Ikea

DINING AREA

Justin made the table from leftover scaffold boards.

Try the Reclaimed wood plank trestle dining table, from £1,100, Home Barn. For a similar spindle chair, try the Talia, £95, Habitat

hen Poppy Treffry and Justine Duance decided to move, it was the call of the surf that lured them.

The couple had been living in Penzance in Cornwall but looking out for properties in a nearby village for three years. Anything that caught their eye was usually above their budget. But a chance sighting on a coastal path walk led to an unexpected purchase.

‘It was a simple handpainted sign that read “barn for sale”,’ says Poppy. ‘When we tracked down the farmer owner and arranged to meet, it turned out to be his tractor shed.’

In fact, the last thing the couple had been looking for was a project. ‘We wanted a house that didn’t really need work to be done on it, but this was just too good to turn down,’ says Poppy. Luckily, help was at hand. Her father trained as a surveyor and builder and used to specialise in barn conversions, so he got right behind the renovation.

The project also required the trust and patience of the farmer who allowed the

favourite shop ‘I love quite a few but I am going with Illustrated Living in Truro, which is a fabulous interiors store’ couple to do all the preliminary drawings and planning application before they had even exchanged contracts. ‘It was quite risky,’ explains Poppy. ‘We put in a lot of work and investment over a period of about a year, but he was very understanding and we trusted him not to sell to anyone else.’ One of the big draws was the location – a peaceful and beautiful spot close to the beach. And from the start, the pair could see what this tractor shed could become. ‘At that first viewing, we walked around saying “bedrooms here, the bathroom there…”,’ says Poppy. ‘I’ve still got some of our sketches from that time and it’s pretty much how it turned out.’

The couple worked on the design together with Poppy’s father advising. ‘We weren’t allowed to knock down any walls and, in many ways, those constraints were a blessing.

If we’d had carte blanche we would have needed an architect but, instead, we could just focus on getting the best from the available space,’ she says. They found inspiration on websites including Pinterest, and from architects such as Rural Design who build with industrial elements in the Scottish Isles.

‘We looked for similar styles and materials as our barn had timber-clad walls and a

c oa s ta l | 25bh

LIVING AREA

The teak spiral staircase was one of Poppy’s best buys. ‘It came from a Sixties house in Shropshire,’ she says.

The Fontanot wooden tread spiral staircase, £879.99, Screwfix, can be painted to match. Try the vintage crate shipping trunk coffee table, £195, Home Barn

2 5 b h au g uS T 2019 | 31

25bh | c oa s ta l

FAVOURITE FEATUR E ‘It has to be the wonderful views. We can see the sea from several of our windows’

MEZZANINE AREA

Poppy added bright cushions from her collection to create a cosy, welcoming feel. oyster Catcher, Fox terrier and Dachshund cushions, all £19.95 each, Poppy treffry. try the Jackson upholstered two-seater sofa, from £599, Cult Furniture

32 | 2 5 b h Au g us t 2019

The stunning location and proximity to the beach were a huge draw for Poppy, Justin and their daughter Biba

BIBA’S BEDROOM

Poppy made the bunting from fabric remnants. buy bunting from the Cotton bunting Company, from £12.

Climb wall kit, from £129, ClimbAwall

BATHROOM

corrugated roof.’ In remodelling the structure, they used reclaimed materials where possible.

The beams needed to support a new and heavier roof, which came from Par Docks and the China Clay Works; some of the internal doors were salvaged from a hotel in Fowey and Justin made the impressive copper front door himself, working with a local coppersmith at The Copper Works Newlyn.

The interior is decorated in a mid-century modern style with touches of vintage and a few pops of colour. ‘I don’t really like lots of exposed stone or exposed wood,’ says Poppy. ‘I like touches of it here and there, and nothing too austere. We were always working towards a particular feel.’

Building from a shell has allowed them to install plenty of eco features. The heating and hot water are supplied by an air-source heat pump, there are solar panels and a ventilation system that recycles the air through the whole house, warming it in the process.

With the property now complete, Poppy remarks on how surprisingly straightforward and smooth a process it has been. ‘It did take quite a long time and it was a bit surreal when we first moved in as it felt like such a big space to begin with, but now we’re properly settled.’ fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

Weathered timber and a seascape painting set the scene in this relaxed space.

Painting by rosalind eastman. white base tiles, £4 each, welbeck tiles

2 5 b h Au g us t 2019 | 33

P R E S E RVI N G T H E PA S T

A wealth of original features keeps the character and charm of Bernie Rix’s converted barn alive FEATURE CAssIE PRyCE | PHOTOGRAPHY DAvID GILEs

36 | 2 5 b H AU G Us T 2019

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home truths THE PROPERTY Converted barn, built circa 1850 L O C AT I O N Worcestershire R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, study, cloakroom, four bedrooms (one en suite), one bathroom P U R C H A S E D July 2016 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘A townhouse nearby – we wanted to stay local’, says Bernie.

Sitting room Bernie focused this space around the stone fireplace. ‘the L-shaped sofas make it a cosy place to unwind in the evenings,’ she says.

Ashbourne corner sofa in Gifford Duck Egg, £2,800, Laura Ashley, has this look. Bespoke Roman blinds, from £180, Rix Interiors

2 5 b H AU G Us T 2019 | 37

25bh | c o u ntry

d e c o r a t i n g t i p ‘Use different types of lighting, from pendants to wall lights, to highlight features’

O

riginal stone walls, wooden beams and an inglenook fireplace all contribute to the rustic charm that led Bernie Rix and her husband Dave to fall head over heels for this characterful family home.

‘Before we’d even stepped inside, the beautiful features had won us over’, recalls Bernie. ‘The gable end windows, the waney-edge cladding and Blue Lias stone gave the barn that rural appeal we were looking for; something very different to the townhouse we were living in.’

Originally built around 1850, the barn had been converted into a dwelling in the early Seventies. The previous owners had 38 | 2 5 b h AU G US T 2019

renovated since then, but when Bernie and Dave moved in, in 2016, it was time for an update. ‘Luckily for us, the work carried out had been done to a very high standard using good-quality materials, including solid-oak flooring and a handmade kitchen with a flagstone floor,’ says Bernie.

As well as cosmetic updates, work needed to be done on the electrics and woodworm in the loft. The overgrown garden was another project in itself, with Bernie and Dave working on it at weekends.

The country-style kitchen was one of the main draws of the property. ‘Although it’s about 20 years old, the quality is fantastic and we love the Shaker style of the

cabinetry,’ says Bernie. ‘We repainted the units and added a bespoke island as a focal point.’ Plus, the open flow of the kitchen, dining and sitting room also makes a great space for the family’s Labradors, Odie and Rolo, who have free rein of the downstairs.

With no structural changes needed, Bernie was able to put her stamp on the interior not long after they moved in. ‘The previous decor was fairly neutral, which meant it was easy to look past the existing schemes and visualise what to do with each space,’ she says. ‘As our previous home was modern and the furniture we owned just wouldn’t sit right in a property of this age, we bought several pieces at Bonds Lifestyle,

Dining room Upholstered chairs and a hide rug balance the textures of the beams and exposed stone walls.

Try the Arundel dining table, £1,585, Neptune. Cowhide rug, £189, Cowshed Interiors SiTTing room Double doors link this space with the dining room, creating an optional open-plan feel.

Brookby window mirror, £325; Brookby glass-fronted buffet, £325, both One.World KiTchen Bernie embraced the country look with a wooden island and farmhouse-style accessories.

Bespoke kitchen, from £15,000, Jeremy Penman. Island, from £699, Parker Howley & Co

2 5 b h AU G US T 2019 | 39

25bh | c o u ntry

f a v o u r i t e f e a t u r e ‘The rustic exposed stonework – it’s a reminder of the barn’s history’ MAIN bedrooM Layers of soft furnishings give this room a luxurious feel. taupe velvet bedspread, £194.50, Maisons du Monde, has this look. Lille armchair, £479, Swoon, covered by rix Interiors e N - s u I t e b At h r o o M bernie chose wood-effect porcelain floor tiles to blend with the barn’s rustic features.

Copper bath, £1,842, Prices Paving & tile. blendart Dark floor tiles, £70.06sq m, Al Murad tiles AMY’s bedrooM Vintage tin tile-effect wallpaper makes a striking feature. try the toulouse white single bedstead, £329, Dunelm. reclaimed tin Ceiling wallpaper, £45 roll, Freemans

a local antiques and interiors emporium.’

Adding colour through soft furnishings has brought each room to life and Bernie has paid particular attention to the window dressings. ‘I run a soft furnishings business called Rix Interiors (@rixinteriors), so I have made all of the curtains, blinds and most of the cushions myself.’

With the dark wooden beams in nearly every room, Bernie has kept the walls light in colour to maintain an open feel. ‘I chose 40 | 2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019

Farrow & Ball’s Skimming Stone for most of the interior walls, as it has a warm tone to it and creates a lovely contrast.’

Preserving the charm of the original barn was a priority for Bernie, so she has cleverly mixed traditional style with more modern touches. ‘Living in a historic property doesn’t mean you have to be restricted in your decorating choices,’ she says. ‘While I’ve given a nod to the original building, I’ve still made it our own and

brought it up to date with splashes of colour and personal touches.’

With two grown-up children, Amy and Joe, and Bernie’s granddaughter, Ottilie, often staying, along with extended family, Bernie has made sure the whole space works for everyone. ‘Being able to spill over from the dining room into the cosy sitting room is perfect for entertaining large groups, particularly in winter when we can all gather round the log burner.’ fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

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natural beauty

Marie Engberg’s home reflects her belief that sustainable design and timeless interiors go hand in hand FEATURE EMMA J PAGE | PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTINA KAYSER O./LIVING INSIDE

c it y | 25bh SITTING ROOM A striking chair adds a splash of Marie’s favourite colour to this clean but characterful space. Most of the other furnishings are sustainably produced or vintage.

Masaya Lounge Chair in Midnight Blue, €980, Yume.

Bowl coffee table by Mater, £491, Nunido. Ceramic vase by Danish potter Ejnar Petersen.

Frida rug, £149, Made.com, has a similar feel

2 5 b H Au G uS T 2019 | 43

home truths THE PROPERTY Townhouse, built in 1886 L O C AT I O N Copenhagen R O O M S Hallway, living area/ kitchen-diner, office, cloakroom, playroom, three bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2014 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before, we rented a property in central Copenhagen,’ says Marie.

SITTING ROOM Marie’s schemes are carefully curated yet welcoming. ‘I like to give items room to breathe,’ she says. The painting was brought home from a trip to Beijing’s art district.

Small Bowl table by Mater, £299, Heal’s. Recreate this look with the Swan Neck round wall light in brass, £89, Industville

44 | 2 5 b H Au g uS T 2019

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DINING AREA ‘I love the way that the pendant adds drama,’ says Marie of her flea-market find that illuminates the table.

Selection of dining chairs from Fritz Hansen, FDB Møbler and Wehlers. Accent dining table in lacquered oak

by Mater, £1,180, Nunido

INSPIRATION ‘Sustainability has become a thread that I navigate by, but it’s not necessarily the first thing you think of when you step inside our home’ 2 5 b H Au g uS T 2019 | 45

25bh | c it y

D

anish-born Marie Engberg is not a woman to do things by halves. Her belief in caring for the planet, both socially and via the design world, has resulted in a diverse career that has seen her work for several interiors brands and, leading up to 2012, on Barack Obama’s re-election campaign.

When Marie and her husband Niels Grove Jensen decided to return home from America to start a family, which now includes Wilfred, five, and Nora, three, they found a characterful townhouse in a vibrant district of Copenhagen. ‘Humleby is a small village where workers from the Carlsberg brewery once lived,’ says Marie.

‘Built in 1886 by architect Frederik Bøttger, the house is a fantastic piece of history in itself – everything is crooked and the rooms have soul.’

The property perfectly harmonises with Marie’s latest venture, sustainable design store Yume, which she opened with Anja Holm in 2017. ‘Personal and eclectic with a Scandinavian edge’ is how Marie describes their style, but her new home needed a gentle renovation before she could make her mark on it.

Spread over four levels, the interior was outdated and lacked a sense of flow.

‘We wanted every floor to function well on its own, while contributing to the overall feel of the house,’ says Marie. So the numerous hallways and stairs were reworked, the top floor was tweaked to accommodate a master suite and dressing room, and the first floor – where the children’s bedrooms are – was simplified.

‘Our priority was to enhance the period details by introducing colour and texture,’ explains Marie. Some of their standout sustainable pieces include the vibrant royal blue and navy Masaya Lounge Chair in the sitting room. ‘It packs a punch and I love that the concept behind it is as much about reforestation as it is about furniture making. Even our plates are made from recycled yogurt pots, which prove that something considered to be rubbish can be turned into practical, beautiful items.’

Once Marie leaves her busy store, her favourite pastime is relaxing at home on the porch, petting the neighbour’s dog, or enjoying drinks in the garden with friends. ‘The neighbourhood is thriving,’ she says, ‘and it gives us endless inspiration when it comes to preserving the past and creating an eco-friendly future.’

46 | 2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019

KITCHEN ‘I like how the L-shaped layout creates a subtle delineation in this open-plan area,’ says Marie. units, price on request, CPh Square

OFFICE This simple setting is used for both work and relaxation.

Masaya Lounge Chair in barley Leather, €1,055, yume

MASTER BEDROOM The couple turned the top floor into a chic loft suite.

Stripe wallpaper by Arte, £129.54 a roll, Jane Clayton

H A L LWAY White walls and wide planks give the feeling of space. take a look at the game swing arm lamp by house Doctor, £125.99, wayfair

CLOAKROOM Wallpaper adds a fun element to an otherwise functional spot.

Jungle beige wallpaper by PaperMint, €96 a roll, yume

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

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c it y | 25bh

The righT move Relocating from Ireland to Scotland has given Claire Johnston the perfect opportunity to create a new home and business venture in one Feature Karen Wilson | PhotograPhy Katie lee

LIVING ROOM

The bay window makes a cosy reading nook. imola chair in Petrol leeds fabric, £1,889, BoConcept. try the Bul standard floor lamp by ligne roset, £776, Heal’s

2 5 b h au g us t 2019 | 49

LIVING ROOM

‘This subtle shade of grey feels warmer than plain white would have,’ says Claire.

Walls in Pavilion Gray, £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball. Pink Air armchair by Broste Copenhagen, £675, I Am Nomad

H HALLWAY

The daybed is a luxurious touch, but it’s also the ideal spot for putting on shoes.

Air daybed by Broste Copenhagen, £1,200, I Am Nomad

50 | 2 5 b H AU G US T 2019

ouse-hunting while living in another country can be challenging, as Claire Johnston discovered when she moved from Ireland to Scotland in 2017. Her husband, Alistair, had already returned to his home city of Glasgow for work, while Claire stayed in Dublin. However, unsurprisingly, the couple wanted to be together full time.

‘We’d just finished renovating our beautiful Dublin house, so I was quite sad to leave,’ says Belfast-born Claire, who was able to continue her old job remotely. ‘Alistair and his brother viewed a few properties, then I flew over to see two of them myself.’

One property in particular got Claire excited about moving.

‘It was a three-bedroom ground-floor apartment within a converted period property,’ she says. ‘The lovely big driveway made a good first impression and the porch, too, but it was the period panelling and living room ceiling that really clinched it.’ The building had been split into two flats by a developer and it was a blank canvas with original floors, white walls and fireplaces. This suited Claire, who was planning to launch her business I Am Nomad – a ‘shop-curated home’, where all furniture, accessories and art would be for sale online and at open-house events. ‘I had the idea after visiting an apartment in New York where they did a similar thing,’ she says.

Claire and Alistair have since furnished their home with a mixture of mid-century pieces and modern designs from Denmark

c it y | 25bh KITCHEN

Using wallpaper and throw rugs gives the cook space the feel of a living room.

Tourbillon wallpaper, £101 a roll; walls in Setting Plaster estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L, both Farrow & Ball

home truths

THE PROPERTY Apartment within a detached Georgian house L O C AT I O N Glasgow R O O M S Hallway, living room, kitchen-diner, three bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2017 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before, we lived in a Georgian house in Dublin,’ says Claire.

decor ating tip ‘When I was shopping for paint for the kitchen walls, I took a swatch of the paper we used on a feature wall to find a shade that matched the pink in it’ 2 5 b H AU G US T 2019 | 51

25bh | c it y lesson learnt

‘After painting our bedroom dark, we had to reupholster our bed in a similar shade so it didn’t dominate the room’

MASTER BEDROOM

Gold accents stand out against the striking charcoal walls. walls in railings estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball

BATHROOM

Claire inherited this chic monochrome scheme, but made it her own with a few key accessories. the Kyoto basin is similar, £69.95, Victorian Plumbing

52 | 2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019

and Amsterdam, alongside artwork and Turkish rugs. ‘Mid-century furniture lends itself to so many different styles,’ says Claire. ‘You can mix it with modern, traditional or retro pieces – anything goes.’

In the master bedroom, Claire has created a cocoon-like feel.

‘I’d always wanted to make one room really dark, including all the skirting boards and doors,’ she says. ‘I must have tried six or seven tester pots before getting the right shade. As there’s a large bay window and high ceilings, the room can take it.’

While Claire would love to have had a pantry by the back door, she couldn’t justify changing the developer’s units. Instead she decided a dramatic hand-painted wallpaper would add a touch of individuality. ‘I was worried I might get bored with it, as it’s such a statement,’ she says. ‘But I love it as much today as when it went up.’

Although it has taken her some time to feel settled, Claire has gradually fallen for the charms of Glasgow. ‘In some ways it reminds me of Belfast and I’ve found a talented community of creative people here,’ she says. With two of her open-house events already under her belt, Claire is planning another for August. ‘The only thing that isn’t for sale in my house is a writing bureau in the guest bedroom that belonged to my great grandfather,’ she says. ‘Living in a home where everything is for sale wouldn’t be for everyone, but when I can see that somebody loves something as much as I do, I don’t mind seeing it go to a good home.’ fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

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THE HEART OF THE HOME When Gill Deriu and her husband Sanero bought a cottage in Ireland, they created a characterful family house with the coolest of kitchens FEATURE SARAH WARD | PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES FRENCH | STYLING MARISHA TAYLOR

home truths

T H E P R O P E R T Y Threebedroom cottage, built in 1907 L O C AT I O N Cork R O O M S Sitting room, kitchen-diner, cloakroom, four bedrooms, bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2017 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before moving in here, we were renting a beautiful house on the waterfront,’ says Gill.

KITCHEN This large space was made more intimate by using rugs, pendants and units to zone areas.

Lappljung Ruta rug, £60, Ikea. Brass pendants, €60 each; aqua chairs, €50 each, both Dunnes Stores.

Dorchester table is similar, £249, Loaf

2 5 b H Au G uS T 2019 | 53

SITTInG ROOM ‘I love this John Burningham print, and the washed-out greens, blues, pinks and yellows in it set the tone in here,’ says Gill. rugs, €80 each, ryngs Drapery. green sofa, £999, DFS. geometric print cushion, €7, Primark

f a v o u r i t e r o o m ‘This house is everything we want, but the kitchen is the

W

hen Gill and Sanero Deriu moved to Cork from Sardinia in 2008, they weren’t looking to buy a home. ‘We had been renting a house and had just started searching for another rental property with more space,’ says Gill.

‘But then a friend told us that this house was for sale. It was everything we had been looking for – a detached cottage with a big garden and an interesting layout. We loved it.’

The couple put in an offer, but were dismayed when their mortgage fell through. But Gill was determined not to lose the house. ‘I asked the owner if we could rent the property while our finances came together, and he agreed,’ says Gill. ‘I promised we’d look after it like our own. He kept it

on the market, though, which was stressful as people kept coming to view the house and I thought we’d lose it.’

Eventually Gill and Sanero secured the mortgage they needed and the house was soon theirs. ‘I fell in love with the feel of the place. The front door opens onto the sitting room, and stairs run from there to the upstairs.’

Another selling point was the large garden, which offered plenty of space for the couple’s children, Elia, now 11, Jasper, nine, and Isa, five, to play.

However, the property needed work. Walls were dry-lined upstairs and downstairs to get rid of damp, and outdoor drainage was put in. The couple converted a large bedroom into two smaller rooms, and turned the master en suite into a family bathroom.

‘We redecorated everywhere,’ says Gill,

c o u ntry | 25bh MASTER BEDROOM The geometric cushion and the dusky pinks on the bed pick up the themes from the sitting room downstairs. helmer cabinet, £30; ranarp wall light, £29, both Ikea. Xo cushion, €20, Pottery barn

B AT H R O O M ‘What you do with flooring can really set the tone of the room,’ says Gill.

‘I love the Moorish feel of these tiles.’

Carmona porcelain tiles are similar, £20.80sq m, Victorian Plumbing.

Mirror, €80, Cork glass

best space – it’s large but cosy, and has a really great energy. It’s a fantastic place’

‘and we did most of it ourselves.’ The kitchen needed an overhaul, but mindful of budget, the couple worked with the existing units. Gill replaced the wall cabinets with open shelving.

‘I painted the cupboards, and we put in an oak surface on the island. I also installed pendants – getting lighting right was important to me, as it’s so critical in creating atmosphere.’

The result is a large, contemporary kitchen-diner where the family gather and the couple can entertain. ‘Our kitchen has changed so much since we moved in,’ says Gill. ‘It makes the house feel bigger and gives us so much living space. I loved its light, airy feel from the beginning, but now it has more character and depth.’

Upstairs, tactile fabrics and muted colours help make the bedrooms feel

soothing and peaceful. ‘We’ve kept the bedrooms tranquil by mixing up natural materials,’ says Gill. ‘In our room, there’s a lot of wood and we’ve added texture with natural linen.’

Downstairs, Gill’s eclectic taste and love of colour bring a modern, bohemian edge. ‘It’s definitely more colourful downstairs,’ she says. ‘The fabric, furniture and rugs make the sitting room cosy, but we’ve kept clutter to a minimum.’ And she adds it need not cost a fortune to add personality.

‘I love rummaging in second-hand shops. In fact, I think pre-loved finds add to the charm of a house. Charity shops are brilliant for finding picture frames – and art doesn’t have to be expensive. We’ve framed keepsakes and the children’s artwork – they all bring personality to our home.’

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

2 5 b h au g uS t 2019 | 55

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home truths

THE PROPERTY First-floor apartment in an old malthouse, with the owners’ independent cinema below L O C AT I O N Derbyshire R O O M S Living area/kitchendiner, utility room, office, two bedooms (one en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2012; moved in as a home in 2017 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in a terraced house across the road,’ says Esther.

change of scene An eye for stylish vintage finds helped Esther Patterson turn her former design studio into a colourful and intriguing home FEATURE SARA BIRD | PHOTOGRAPHY DAN DUCHARS/THE CONTENTED NEST

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Living area The large open-plan space has a convivial seating area created by vintage leather and velvet mid-century sofas, dressed in a colourful mix of cushions. a wood-burning stove creates a snug focal point, complete with leather armchair and a mantel displaying vintage finds.

Lush indoor plants link the

interior of the apartment to the terrace outside.

The leather Holly sofa, £2,549, The Lounge Co, is similar. Mid-century sofa is covered in Brubeck velvet; cushions in velvet, all £144m, Blackpop. Silk Ume lanterns, £1,850 each; Acid Drop cluster lights, £5,125, all Curiousa & Curiousa Waffle shelves, £125,Loaf, have a similar vintage look

kitchen Geometric floor tiles define this raised space, with its reclaimed laboratory table island unit. esther chose a Venetian plaster wall finish to highlight her own glass lighting, while a copper cooker hood echoes the warmth of the surrounding wood.

Bowl wall lights, £360 each; Lotus Dine pendant, £1,950, all Curiousa & Curiousa. Smeg Retro

Fridge, £1,100, Appliances Direct.

Hook floor tiles, €150sq m, Marrakech Design DininG AReA A large bespoke table suits the scale of this open-plan space.

Table made to order, Bazar Antiques. The Blake leather chairs, £319, Cult Furniture, have this look.

Cocoon pendants, price on request, Curiousa & Curiousa

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b e s t b u y ‘The large shelving unit works really well in here – it was once used to store thread in an old textile mill’

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riginally bought as a design studio for Esther Patterson’s bespoke lighting company Curiousa & Curiousa, this former malthouse in a Derbyshire village has, in a few years, gone from practical workplace to stylish home. Built in the 1800s, the property has been through various guises, but the unique style of the interior struck a chord with the couple. ‘My husband Paul and I were living across the road, but our studio space in this building gave us lots of options,’ says Esther. ‘Firstly, we had the idea of creating a small

independent cinema, The Northern Lights Cinema. Then we realised that as our company grew, we would need another base for our lighting company, so the seed was sown to create a home for us and our son Gabriel, here above the cinema,’ says Esther.

The couple were confident about making changes to the upstairs apartment. Despite being in a conservation area, the property wasn’t listed so the interior design was open to options.

‘The brick walls and beams were a beautiful feature to showcase,’ says Esther. ‘And we wanted to be able to stand at one end of the 2 5 b h Au g uS T 2019 | 61

f a v o u r i t e f e a t u r e ‘The original beams are majestic and beautiful – they really are the central character of the space’

g a b r i e l’ s b e d r o o m bright bedlinen sings out against textural original brickwork. regal radiator, from £35 a section, Cast Iron radiators

e n - s u i t e b at h r o o m a lively feature wall enhances this light and colourful space.

Mural, printed by rA Smart. Siham floor tiles, £1 each, bert & May

b at h r o o m striking maze-design floor tiles create an illusion of space. goose eye floor tiles, €150sq m, Marrakech Design. Find similar wall lights, £85 each, Cream and Chrome

main bedroom esther’s own mural design, inspired by her old garden, adds more character behind the bed.

Crittall windows, price on request, Cotswold Casements

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building and see all the way through, so decided on glazed walls made from Crittal windows to divide the open-plan space. The glass was sound-proofed and we put up curtains for privacy.’

Keeping the original floor was a priority but, with the cinema below, they needed to consider sound insulation once more. ‘We realised we needed to install new plumbing and electrics, so we raised the floor to allow for all of this,’ explains Esther. ‘And it was beneficial, as the varying levels divide the different areas.’ A pantry was fitted in behind the kitchen to house appliances and more fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

storage. ‘I wanted somewhere I could just stash all the household stuff away,’ says Esther. ‘It is a godsend.’

With a good eye for reclaimed materials and vintage buys, Esther and Paul gave their home a bespoke look, which evolved naturally, enhanced with a selection of their own lighting. ‘I’m not one for finding solutions at the beginning of a project and have it all spot on,’ says Esther. ‘It was like creating a foundation for a home to develop on its own. It has grown as we’ve grown, which is why it feels so comfortable, reflecting exactly what we’re all about.’

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S c a n d i n av i a n ble nd Allison Lindeman and her husband Oeyvind were determined to bring their cosy, minimalist take on Nordic design to their renovation plans FeaTURe SARAH MABER | PHOTOGRaPHY JAMES FRENCH | STYlinG MARISHA TAYLOR

sITTINg Room A colourful artwork stands out against white and grey tones.

Swoon’s Ludwig armchair in Light Grey, £659, is a good alternative

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home truths THe PROPeRTY Five-bedroom Victorian semi l O c aT i O n Southwest London R O O M S Hallway, living area/ kitchen-diner, sitting room, study, utility room, cloakroom, five bedrooms, three bathrooms P U R c H a S e d 2013 PReviOUS PROPeRTY ‘Before moving here, we lived in a smaller terraced house in Wimbledon,’ says Allison.

LIVINg AREA Allison used tiles to replicate an exposed brick wall.

Reclaimed barnstock tiles, £72sq m, Reclaimed Brick-Tile

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ncorporating Scandinavian design into their Victorian semi in southwest London was a priority for American interior designer Allison Lindeman of Saltbox Interiors and her Norwegian husband Oeyvind. They wanted to create a huge, open-plan family living area that still felt ‘hyggelig’ – cosy and welcoming. ‘When we looked at houses, we struggled to find one that fitted the open-plan concept, as properties within our budget tended to have lots of rooms – a front room, dining room and separate kitchen. So we decided to go for a cheaper house that we could change to suit our lifestyle,’ says Allison.

To build their dream living space, the couple knocked four rooms – the dining room, breakfast room, kitchen and conservatory – into one, and created a main living space with different zones.

‘There’s a TV and play area, a sitting area with a fireplace, a dining area and a kitchen,’ says Allison. The result is a light, minimalist and relaxed family space where children Piper, eight, Finn, six, and Kaia, four, can eat and play and where everyone gathers to spend time together.

Allison’s love of Scandinavian design is evident throughout the house. Downstairs, walls are white, and there are plenty of industrial touches in keeping with the Scandi design aesthetic – metal stools, brick tiling, raw wood shelving and a handleless kitchen. Even the floor tiles in the downstairs hallway and bathroom have an industrial edge. ‘They’re ceramic, but

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kItchEN Metal stools introduce an industrial feel.

Try the Tolix-style metal bar stool in Gunmetal, £69, Cult Furniture. &Tradition Mega bulb SR2 pendant lights by Sofie Refer, £129 each, Haus

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h A l lWAY Allison repainted the chest, which was a hand-me-down from her grandmother.

Grey Sheepskin rug in Steel, £45, John Lewis & Partners. Strap mirror by Hay, £125, Haus

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GARDEN timber decking and comfortable seating create a relaxed outdoor space.

The Indiana solid acacia garden armchair, £271, Maisons du Monde, would suit this setting

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lIvING AREA Indoor plants add a refreshing burst of green.

Streamline coffee table in whitewashed mango wood, £399, West Elm. The Toki geometric large wool rug, £279, Made.com, would also work here

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Decor ating advice ‘Keep walls white, light and neutral to create a great space to hang artwork; you can then play off the colours with your choice of soft furnishings’

DINING AREA Allison teamed dark wood flooring with white walls for a Scandi feel.

Smoked wood flooring, £55sq m, The Wood Flooring Shop

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meant to look like cement,’ says Allison.

The clean lines of the living space are softened by cushions and rugs. ‘The risk with this type of design is that it can come across as cold if not done properly,’ says Allison. ‘But good Scandinavian design is layered and varied, using texture and materials to create depth and interest.’

Throughout the house, the couple’s much-loved art collection provides splashes of colour against the monochrome backdrop. Yellow rugs, cushions, throws and chairs throughout the house pull the design scheme together. Upstairs, Allison painted her en-suite bathroom a stunning, deep blue. ‘I am particularly proud of the en suite,’ she says. ‘We converted a bedroom to a bathroom when we redid the house and the room was so large that I experimented more with colour and played off the blue in our bedroom.’

Keeping the interior design practical was a major priority for Allison. ‘A house with small children needs to work for everyone without any stress that things will get ruined,’ she says. ‘Our Ikea dining table also serves as a craft area, painting workshop and glitter palace. The kids can make a mess and draw on the table without worry as it usually wipes clean, but if it doesn’t, I don’t stress. We used wipeable paint throughout the house and had lots of storage built in so we can tidy away all the toys and easily create a grown-up space for relaxing and entertaining in the evening.

It’s the perfect family home.’

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PIPER’S BEDROOM A delicate canopy hung from the ceiling creates a bed fit for a princess. try Ikea’s bryne net, £8. the Candy multicoloured squares rug, from £34.98, Amazon, would work

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GUEST BEDROOM An elegant period fireplace contrasts with the surrounding wall in a modern, rich grey. the buttoned-back upholstered chair in Putty, £195, Pinnacle, is similar

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MASTER EN SUITE Cool marble flooring and deep-blue walls give this the look of a luxurious hotel. bridge hampton marble tiles, £114.95sq m, Fired earth. Portland mirror, £125, the white Company

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GUEST BEDROOM Situated in the roof, this space has a cosy feel. the regency grey velvet bedspread, £250, habitat, is a good alternative. For a similar chest of drawers, try Ikea’s hemnes, £115

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Invest In qualIty art

A

fter moving to London in 1996, soon after finishing her studies, Belinda’s intention was to stay for three months. Instead, she stayed for 21 years. ‘I was instantly drawn to the city’s buzz, its cultural heritage and cosmopolitan feel,’ she says.

Despite her time in the capital, it is France, her home country, that has had the strongest influence on her drawing.

‘I’ve named most of my ladies I draw after French heroines. I can’t pinpoint the exact time when I started to draw, because, for as long I can remember, I was drawing – always drawing – to the exasperation of my parents. I would draw on everything: cereal boxes, books, official documents and letters from school complaining about me always drawing. Then, much later on, I went to study at L’École Supérieure d’Art in Annecy, then the École d’Arts Appliqués in Lyon,’ she says.

The focus of Belinda’s work is, invariably, womankind: glamorous, uncompromising and beautiful.

‘When I visualise the female form, I see a different code of beauty: a wit, a composure, a certain mannerism, a unique imperfection, a smouldering look, a trailblazing attitude. I find these attributes in female characters in literature, in strong cinematic female leads and in historical heroines.’

Her hand-drawn pieces are a fusion of the cultural references she has collected.

She takes inspiration from the Twenties, as well as from Klimt, and she sites Biba’s Barbara Hulanicki as another major influence on her work. ‘My eyes are mainly drawn to the past,’ she confesses.

Owning a piece of art is as easy as clicking a button with new online venture Runway Gallery.

Showcasing contemporary, fashion-focused works from celebrated artists, runway-gallery.com enables you to snap up original prints for your home.

COMING NEXT MONTH Look out for our September issue, where we check out the work of new Runway Gallery member Grazie.

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fRom Left to RiGht: Daphné (Guinness); LayLa; snake Dress after Gucci, aLL BeLinda fRikh at Runway GaLLeRy

Runway Gallery artist Belinda Frikh tells us about her lifelong love of drawing, and explains how her French roots influence her timeless works

home truths THe ProPerTY Semi-detached Victorian villa L o C AT i o n Brighton r o o m s Sitting room, kitchen-diner, snug, utility room, cloakroom, six bedrooms, two bathrooms P U r C H A s e d 2015 PreVioUs ProPerTY ‘Our last house was a Victorian terrace in Brighton that we also modernised,’ says Hannah.

On a mission to modernise

When the Boldings moved into their neglected Victorian villa, they couldn’t wait to start their top-to-toe revamp FeATUre SARAH MABER | PHoToGrAPHY JAMES FRENCH | sTYLinG MARISHA TAYLOR

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c oa s ta l | 25bh SITTING ROOM Stripped floorboards and pale grey walls create a timeless feel.

The Umage Eos feather lampshade, £325, Dowsing & Reynolds, is a match. Thunder grey velvet cushion, £50, Design Vintage

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annah and Jasper Bolding were no strangers to property renovation but it wasn’t until they collected the keys to their new home in Brighton that Hannah realised the enormity of the work that lay ahead. ‘The property was everything we’d been looking for – a double-fronted period house with a good-sized garden – but it was in a horrendous state,’ she says. ‘The kitchen was grimy and old, the windows were mouldy and the bathroom was disgusting – all the woodwork was painted in a bright blue gloss. Our daughter Mya was just five at the time and I thought we’d bitten off more than we could chew.’

With carpets being laid and floors due to be sanded in the next few days, the couple didn’t waste any time. Juggling childcare with

SITTING ROOM Bold grey fabric gives this classic armchair a contemporary twist.

For a similar chair, try the Safavieh Dixie in Grey/ Blue, £399.99, Wayfair.

Kilim vintage rug in Grey, from £299, The French Bedroom Company

friends and family, Hannah and Jasper worked into the small hours to make the property feel more homely. ‘We got the brushes out and got on with it,’ she says. ‘I started by painting over the blue gloss throughout the house with an eggshell white and then I painted the old red kitchen units a soft grey as a stop gap before we had new cabinets fitted. ‘We just made it more easy on the eye – although now, whenever you bash the woodwork any chips reveal bright blue!’

As veteran renovators, Hannah and Jasper, a quantity surveyor, were aware that waiting for planning permission can hold up vital building works, and decided to submit their application for the kitchen extension before the sale was completed. ‘It was a risk, but we were hopeful as we weren’t in a chain,’ says Hannah. Thankfully, 2 5 b H AU G US T 2019 | 71

KITCHeN-DINeR An exposed steel beam adds an industrial edge.

Clerkenwell kitchen in gloss white, price on request, howdens.

Industville’s old Factory pendant in Light Pewter, £59, is a good alternative

d e s i g n t i p ‘If you get bored quickly, steer clear of decorating in bright colours. Keep it safe with neutral walls, then accessorise’

it paid off, and the builders were able to start work on the kitchen extension on schedule, four months after the couple moved in.

‘We took down a wall, extended into the side return to create a utility area, squared off an arch to modernise the space and erected a wall inside made from reclaimed Sussex bricks,’ says Hannah. ‘It all went very smoothly.’ The finished kitchen in white gloss has a contemporary feel, which fits Hannah’s design philosophy. ‘A Shaker-style kitchen might date, but clean lines and neutral colours are timeless,’ she says. ‘The exposed brickwork and worn wood help prevent the white units looking too clinical and sterile.’

Hannah decided to experiment with dark walls in the snug, just off the kitchen, sticking to her neutral design aesthetic but using black paint for a dramatic, luxe effect. ‘I wanted to do something different in this room without committing to the whole house,’ she says. ‘It’s a dark space anyway, with no natural light, so the opulent 72 | 2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019

accessories and black walls work.’ Upstairs, the old bathrooms were ripped out. In fact, the only element of the original master bathroom that Hannah kept was the enamel bath. ‘It was immaculate,’ she says, ‘but everything else needed gutting.’

While the couple didn’t have a strict renovation budget, they tried to make savings where possible. ‘We funded the purchase with equity from our last property, topped up with savings,’ says Hannah, ‘but we did things gradually to keep an eye on figures. We also tried to do what we could ourselves to keep costs down.’

Hannah and Jasper both work, so finding time to decorate wasn’t easy. ‘It’s surprising what you can get done in an hour,’ says Hannah. ‘It never looks as good as a professional painter, but it’s much cheaper. I also painted the fireplace tiles in the sitting room; as soon as I’d done that, the space looked more modern. Little tweaks can make a huge difference, without costing you a fortune.’

c oa s ta l | 25bh gueST BeDROOM Hannah painted this old chest of drawers black.

Chest in railings estate eggshell, £62 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball

B AT H R O O M A monochrome colour scheme was chosen for a smart, classic look. wall in Ammonite estate eggshell, £62 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball. Fabulous wall lights in black, £89 each, rockett St george

M YA’ S R O O M Quirky framed prints and lighting bring character to this space. eyelashes print, from £6.95, Desenio, is similar. the little toadstool night light in red, Love Frankie, would also work here

gARDeN The couple took down a big garage to create this seating area.

For similar furniture, try the Jutlandia Moss table, from £369.99; Jutlandia Varming chairs, £59.99 each, both Jysk

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Simple pleasures Pared-back design and a pretty palette of neutrals and pastels are the hallmarks of Rosemary and Justin Bickers’ serene home FEATURE CIArA ELLIoTT | PHOTOGRAPHY rAChAEL SMITh

dININg room This light-filled space was once the garage, but is now the heart of the home.

For a similar table and benches, try the Fjord rectangle dining table and bench set, £349, Made.com. Double Paris pendant light, £185, Garden Trading. Plant box, £199, Ferm Living

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home truths

T H E P R O P E R T Y Victorian semi-detached villa, built in 1901 L O C AT I O N Suffolk R O O M S hallway, kitchen, dining room, sitting room, family room, cloakroom, cellar, four bedrooms, family bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2013 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before this, we lived in a smaller home nearby,’ says rosemary.

KITCHEN Clever design details, like the curved wall units, and flashes of sunny colours bring character to the room.

Malton Alabaster units, from £50 for a door, Innova at DIY Kitchens. Units in Purbeck Stone estate eggshell, £62 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball

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triking a balance between minimalism and warmth is a tricky task for any homeowner, but add four small children into the mix and you’d be forgiven for giving up on style altogether and heading straight down the ‘practical’ route. This hasn’t been the case for Rosemary and Justin Bickers, who – over the past six years – have turned an unloved doer-upper into a beautiful haven for their family, which includes Alfie, seven, Tom, six, Daisy, four, and Dorothy, six months.

‘We had been searching for the right property for over a year,’ says Rosemary. ‘My late father had been hoping we’d stay close to my family home and he was delighted when we found a house just 10 doors down from it.’

Although the property was in need of a complete overhaul, Rosemary wasn’t fazed.

She had grown up on the road and over the years had been in many of the neighbours’ houses, so had seen how they had been reworked.

It also helped that Justin is an electrical contractor specialising in lighting solutions.

The first room to be tackled was the kitchen.

‘It was really dated,’ says Rosemary. ‘It was going to be a big job, but we had to be practical and do it on a budget and in stages as there was so much more to be done in the house.’ New electrics and plumbing, plus replastering and repainting throughout were also on the to-do list. After careful planning and budgeting, it was decided that phase one would be to extend out at the back and into the side return to get a bigger kitchen and also a cloakroom. The old cabinetry was replaced with pale-grey, Shaker-style units

design advice ‘Before you renovate, live in your house for a while – you’ll better 1

f A M I lY R O O M Rosemary chose a vintage-style floral wallpaper to create a cocooning feel, but the modular sofa keeps the look modern.

Peonies wallpaper, $195 a roll, rifle Paper Co. Camden corner sofa with chaise, from £1,499, John Lewis & Partners. Low Jinx coffee table, £375, Loaf. the Loft floor lamp in white, £146.25, only home, is similar

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KITCHEN The shelving unit is a piece Rosemary upcycled with a lick of paint and the Ercol bench is a place to relax with a cup of tea.

Shelf in Purbeck Stone

estate eggshell, £62 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball. ercol originals loveseat, from £900, heal’s. the Shorty locker in blush, £129, Mustard Made. garland, from a selection, tea and Kate

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D I N I N G RO O M Including a sofa in this space makes it a flexible living area.

The table and benches can be moved against the side wall to make more room when entertaining.

For a similar table and benches, try the Fjord rectangle dining table and bench set, £349, Made.com. the Auburn sofa in black Indigo, £699, west elm, is similar

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that have a clean, crisp look, but also give the room character. Phase two of the downstairs renovation was knocking through to the garage to create a dining space and a family room, both of which are linked to the kitchen through large openings. The dining room also has floor-toceiling glazed doors that lead out to the garden.

One area downstairs that hasn’t received Rosemary and Justin’s magic touch yet is the sitting room. ‘We decided to keep it as a traditional “best room”,’ says Rosemary. ‘We will get around to doing it up in the future, but it hasn’t been a priority so far.’ The children’s rooms and Rosemary and Justin’s own bedroom were phase three and all have been decorated in off-whites with pretty pastel accents for a serene feel. Rosemary also likes to buy original artwork to give each room personality. ‘Styling my home feeds my creativity,’ she says. ‘I also take a lot of inspiration from places we’ve visited or hotels we’ve stayed in. The Swan Hotel, nearby in Southwold, is one I love. And my mum is great with colour and has a good eye, so I’ll often ask for her advice. She’s also a lover of collecting ornaments – just like me!’

And are Rosemary and Justin happy with all they have achieved? ‘Definitely,’ says Rosemary.

‘The family room is my little hygge nest. It’s my favourite area of the house to sit while the children play and I’m feeding the baby. I also love our dining room. It’s where the family comes together to feast and to chat. Luckily, we all love our food. Simplicity and balance is what we wanted to achieve, and I think it’s what makes this home such a happy one.’

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understand how it functions and you’ll also get an idea of where the natural light lies’ 5&6

AlfIE AND TOM’S BEDROOM The bunk bed cleverly doubles as storage to save space in this shared room.

Eye-catching artwork adds personality. bunk bed with drawer stairs, £895, Anderson’s themes and Dreams. whale poster (unframed), £7.95, Desenio. Für Neil Moon Man poster (unframed), £18.50, this Modern Life

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DAISY ’S BEDROOM like all the rooms in the house, this space has a neutral backdrop that can be easily updated with colourful accessories

and artwork that bring an individual touch. the Sophia bed, £81.99, wayfair, is similar. bella bunny garland, £15.30, Piccolo Studio at Minimodel gallery

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MASTER BEDROOM Although pretty pastels are used in Rosemary and Justin’s room, it still has a grown-up feel thanks to the grey buttonback headboard. try the Skye bed in Pewter, £599, Made. com, for a similar look.

No 045 LeD task lamp in Pink, £75, Design Project by John Lewis at John Lewis & Partners.

Cushions, from £25 each, Vanil. Artwork, Anna Mac

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A NEW TIDE

Jane and Mark Green’s decision to build a modern riverside home on the site of a loved family house has proved a big success Feature SHARON PARSONS | PhotograPhy RICHARD GADSBY

dining area Positioning the table beneath the walkway meant that the pendant lights could be easily suspended above.

Try the mini teardrop pendant in Black, £58, Lampsy. Steel-framed table, from £750, Chunky Monkey. Lule carver chairs, £249 for two, Made.com

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home truths living area Jane recently painted the chimney breast a deep teal colour, adding impact to the open-plan atrium.

Wall in Pleat absolute matt emulsion, £45 for 2.5L, Little Greene. Jura Grey honed limestone floor tiles, from £67.14sq m, Mandarin Stone

the ProPerty Contemporary new build L o c at i o n Devon r o o m s Living area/ kitchen-diner, snug, study, utility room, cloakroom, three bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom, plus a one-bedroom apartment B u i Lt 2013 Previous ProPerty ‘Before moving here, we lived in military quarters in London,’ says Jane.

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kitchen the couple had a vast island made, adding a honed granite top for a high-end finish.

Units from Jewson; for a similar design, consider the Paloma, from £3,984 for 12 units. Try the tall Clockhouse stool in Charcoal, £150, Garden Trading

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terrace balconies have been positioned all around the property so that the fabulous river views can be enjoyed at any time of day or evening.

Ikea’s Sjalland chair with armrests in Light Grey/Dark Grey, £55, would suit this space

landing this clever display is made up of Jane’s father’s old raF second World War maps.

The black cormorant is from White Sails gallery in Dartmouth; try the Archipelago high cormorant bird wood carving, £115, Interior Gifts

hen it comes to style, my husband Mark and I are quite traditional,’ says Jane Green as she gazes out of the windows of her home to views of the River Dart in Devon beyond. ‘But having decided to build our own house here, it seemed silly to go for a pastiche of an older style: we decided we would be brave instead.’

It was courageous indeed. Jane’s parents had owned a house on the same site for 35 years, but when they passed away, the couple were faced with a dilemma – to upgrade the tired existing property, or to demolish it to make way for something new. ‘In the end, we decided that starting again was the best way,’ says Jane. ‘We wanted a home that suited our lifestyle now. Our grown-up son and daughter were in agreement, though I must admit, when the demolition team arrived, it wasn’t easy.’

There was excitement, too, though, not least because it meant the couple could instigate some of the design principles they had admired for many years. ‘Mark was in the RAF, which meant we were lucky enough to live in South Africa,’ says Jane. ‘We loved the modern architecture there, with an emphasis on open space, an inside-out quality and plenty of light.’

making plans

The couple engaged local architect Lee Guilfoyle – who had designed a neighbour’s house they admired – and they worked together to bring the vision to life. Once the design was in place, it was submitted for planning permission: a major worry was that the contemporary build would be too visible from both the river and the opposite town of Dartmouth. ‘In the end, it was all fairly straightforward,’ says Jane. ‘And the fact that we were building an energy-efficient house was really supported.’

Once approved, the build began in earnest. The site is on a steep slope, which means the entrance at the back of the house is on the upper level: this leads to a glass-panelled walkway, and three of the bedrooms, including the master suite. The dramatic heart of the house is the atrium. There is also

d e c o r at i n g advice ‘Take time to furnish a new home – we needed to appreciate the scale of this place before buying pieces’ a self-contained flat on the lower floor, which can be used when family visit.

‘Our main criteria was that there should be one big open-plan living area,’ says Jane. ‘I was determined that the kitchen should be very much a part of the overall space.’ The generous footprint was separated into zones, yet still feels comfortable and inviting: the kitchen, for instance, is delineated by an oversized island, while a woodburner set into a large chimney breast provides a strong focal point for the living area. cHallEnging timEs

The build, which took 18 months, was not without its difficulties. ‘At the time, we were living in military quarters in London, which meant we spent almost every weekend driving down to Devon to see what progress was being made,’ says Jane. When Mark’s final military posting came to an end, the couple had no choice but to move into the unfinished house.

‘It was a bit like camping,’ says Jane.

‘The windows were still covered with protective film, so the builders made some holes in it so we could see out!’

Finally, however, the contractors departed, and the couple were left to get to know their new home – and begin to put their stamp on it. ‘I’m glad we waited until we started to live here properly to buy furniture,’ says Jane. ‘It made it so much easier to envisage what would look right.’

In the five years since moving in, the couple have chosen contemporary pieces that combine with much-loved inherited items to create a home that is as individual and welcoming as it is striking. ‘I hope we’ve achieved what my parents did – that is, make a home that will be a memorable and happy place for our family,’ says Jane. ‘That alone has made it all worthwhile.’ fo r sto c k i sts G o To W hEr E To B U y

master bedroom soft blue tones echo the colours of the sky and river outside the window.

Brittany quilt in White Blue, from £180, The White Company. Back wall in London Stone estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball

master en suite stone tiles and a generous basin create a hotel-luxe feel.

Try Tile Giant’s Stoney Sand stone-effect tiles, £28sq m.

Duravit Ketho wall-mounted two-drawer unit with double basin, £563, Nationwide Bathrooms, is a good choice

guest bedroom Pretty floral fabric softens the room’s strong lines.

Curtain and blind fabric, Laura Ashley; for a similar design, look at Josette Duck Egg Blue floral linen mix, £36m. To stay in the apartment below the house, go to lowtidesdartmouth.co.uk

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Creative thinking Artist Annabel Playfair’s 17th-century Cotswold farmhouse has evolved over the passage of time to suit each generation FEATURE HugH St Clair | PhoTogRAPhy andreaS von einSeidel

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c o u ntry | 25bh

home truths ThE PRoPERTy 17th-century stone farmhouse L o c AT i o n Warwickshire R o o m s Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, snug, utility room, garden room, studio, loggia, eight bedrooms, six bathrooms P U R c h A s E d 1995 PREvioUs PRoPERTy ‘We lived in a smaller farmhouse nearby,’ says annabel.

25bh | c o u ntry

KITCHEN-DINER Annabel painted the farm animals above the Aga. The French ceramic rise and fall pendant light, £223, Holloways of Ludlow, would work here. Try the Dorchester kitchen chairs, £240 a pair, The Cotswold Company

O

ver the centuries, as the needs of its occupants have changed, Annabel Playfair’s home has gone through many modifications. Originally a small two-bedroom farmhouse, it was extended in Georgian times and again in the Victorian era. When Annabel arrived with her young son in 1995, the house was a maze of dark rooms and passages, with a jumble of farm buildings outside. And, as Annabel’s family grew with the arrival of triplets, her desire to reconfigure the space began.

‘We wanted to bring in light and a feeling of openness,’ she says.

‘One way was to remove the dark stain from the beams and paint them a pale colour but when we stripped them, we found the original soft grey tone applied some 200 years ago.’ The family were

f a v o u r i t e i t e m ‘The kitchen table from a large country house; we lowered the 84 | 2 5 b h AU G US T 2019

SITTING ROOM The coffee table was made by cutting down an old kitchen table.

Coffee table in Château Grey chalk paint, £19.95 for 1L, Annie Sloan. The Chateau French Grey armchair, £199.99, Chiltern Oak Furniture, is similar

LOGGIA This space was inspired by a visit to a house in France.

fascinated by the house’s history. Upstairs, her children found two pieces of writing on the wall, which Annabel has preserved under glass. One from 1794 reads: ‘We come up here with candles but do not need them a bit’. Another reads: ‘G and R Parkinson, 1914’.

Back in the 21st century, Annabel wanted to add a large family kitchen suitable for entertaining and her starting point was a set of reclaimed pine shutters, now painted pale cream. ‘The shutters determined the size of the window and therefore the feel of the room,’ she explains. And, by extending out into the garden, she was able to create a double-height space.

At this point, Annabel called on her friend, interior designer Rachel Hamel Cooke to help her create a smooth flow between

was an original Georgian work table legs so that we are able to sit at it’ 2 5 b h AU G US T 2019 | 85

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LANDING the rocking horse started the children’s love affair with all things equestrian.

For similar, try Sally’s rocking horses, from £1,500. tulip painting, price on request, Annabel Playfair

H A L LWAY the soft wall colour sets the tone for the rest of the house. table in Paris grey chalk paint, £19.95 for 1L, Annie Sloan

f a v o u r i t e r o o m ‘After a day spent more lovely than heading out to the loggia rooms and easy access to the magnificent garden. ‘We created a garden room, building out from the original back door, focusing around a large 18th-century fireplace,’ says Annabel. Sunlight floods in through the windows on three sides, while armchairs upholstered in red linen and a deep sofa in a natural linen with colourful cushions add warmth and texture to the space.

To create another connection with the garden and make the most of the idyllic setting, a new loggia has been built on to the house. Simple pillars made from local stone support the side open to the garden, while the floor of old bricks came from the barn when it had to be levelled to fit in more stabling. The loggia’s impressive fireplace is made from new stone rendered in limewash, while an

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MAster BeDrOOM this scheme was inspired by the vintage toile curtains. brockhampton Star wallpaper, £91 a roll, Farrow & ball. windowpane throw, £109, bronte by Moon, is similar

B At H r O O M subtle pattern and a refined palette create a restful mood. oyster roses wallpaper, £65m, Kate Forman

painting in my studio, there’s nothing to sit and relax with friends and family’ oak ship’s beam forms the mantel giving it an original period feel. And thanks to the heat from the open fire, Annabel and her family and friends can enjoy sitting out here from early spring right through until late autumn.

The 18th-century cart sheds, which became stables in the early 20th century, now form Annabel’s artist’s studio. Since her children have grown up and left home, she now devotes much of her time to painting local landscapes and still lifes in oil and charcoal. ‘I love painting the nearby scenery, especially the sheep,’ she laughs.

‘I really couldn’t have a more inspiring location.’

Annabel’s exhibition, Colour and Light, runs 8 to 28 September at Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire, fossegallery.com; annabelplayfair.co.uk. fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

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second sight

Despite initially dismissing a tired Fifties house, Sarah and Ken Loveday took another look and saw it could become the spacious family home they needed FEATURE SARAH WARD | PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES FRENCH | STYLING MARISHA TAYLOR

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tow n | 25bh sitting room

‘I don’t have a colour scheme in mind when styling a space – rather, I am guided by a piece of art, or a fabric that I love,’ says Sarah.

Cabinet, £750, Graham and Green.

The striped rug was sourced in India – for similar, try Ikea, from £25

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W home truths The properTy Fifties house L o C AT I o N Warwickshire r o o M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, utility room, design studio, five bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom p U r C h A S e D 2012 preVIoUS properTy ‘We lived in a Victorian terrace in the same town,’ says Sarah.

hen Sarah Loveday and her husband Ken first saw a ‘soulless’ Fifties home in Leamington Spa, they dismissed it out of hand. ‘There wasn’t much I liked about the house – apart from the fact that it offered us the space that we needed,’ says Sarah, a brand designer and interiors stylist. ‘We told the estate agent we weren’t interested and the house soon sold. But then it came back on to the market.’ The estate agent persuaded Sarah to look again.

‘With some reluctance, we realised it was just what we needed,’ she says. ‘It was dull, plain and empty – but offered us plenty of space. Annie, our middle child, was just three weeks old at the time and we were desperate for more room.’

But the family faced an unexpected challenge when they moved in that

KITCHEN

Hi-gloss cabinet fronts were replaced with matt white ones with vintage-look handles.

Cabinet doors, from £53 each, Howdens. Billingsgate clock, £350, Heal’s. Walls in Brilliant White matt emulsion, £20 for 2.5L, Dulux

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almost put a stop to renovation plans.

‘The house was infested with rats,’ says Sarah. ‘It was horrendous. For the first nine months, we weren’t sure if we’d stay because we just couldn’t get rid of them.

They were in the cavity space above the kitchen, the sitting room and the studio – knowing they were there was horrible.

It wasn’t until they were gone that we felt we could start making the house ours.’

The first task was to widen the hallway, which Sarah describes as narrow and out of proportion to the rest of the house. ‘We had plenty of space in the sitting room, so we pushed that wall back.

We also put in a new front door and added a chimney breast to the sitting room, which made a real difference as it gave the room a much-needed focal point.’

Working to a budget, the couple decided to postpone doing a full kitchen

Decor ating advice ‘Mix old and new, stick with what you love and don’t be swayed by high-street trends to achieve a unique look’

dININg ArEA

Sarah sourced the original Fifties chairs online and reupholstered them herself in a blue check.

Chairs, £40 each, eBay. Table, £200, House of Fraser. Garden Trading spindle bar stools in Carbon, £230 each, Cuckooland. Lohal rug, £75, Ikea

25bh | tow n

en SuITe

Sarah and Ken turned the second room in the attic into a large bathroom.

Cole & Son Secret garden wallpaper, £85 a roll, John Lewis & Partners

renovation, instead fitting new Shakerstyle cupboard fronts for a fresh look.

‘We didn’t start the loft until three years – and another baby – later,’ says Sarah. ‘The space was boarded and separated into two rooms joined by a narrow corridor, and there were windows, but nothing else. We did originally plan on putting two bedrooms upstairs but instead we moved a few walls around and turned one of the rooms into a large en suite.’ With the loft conversion finished, the children – Bella, now nine, Annie, seven, and Todd, five, had the space they needed – and Sarah and Ken had their own attic sanctuary to escape to.

Downstairs, the sitting room is full of character and colour, with an eclectic, bohemian mix of vintage prints and artwork, cushions, rugs, antiques and treasures that fill the space with

personality. ‘I adore textiles and antiques,’ says Sarah. ‘I like nothing more than scouring auction houses for pieces and picking up textiles on our travels to fill the house with – it gives it so much soul.’

As the house dates from the Fifties, Sarah has incorporated this era into her aesthetic by sourcing vintage furniture online and reupholstering mid-century chairs in bright fabrics. ‘Colour is such a joyful thing to have in your home,’ she says. ‘But I never want my interiors to feel too garish or contrived so I ground them with natural textures like jute and wood.

‘It’s been seven years since we moved in and it has taken time to get the house to a place where it feels like our home,’ Sarah continues. ‘It’s been a slow process and moving to a more modern house was definitely a compromise, but now we love the space we’ve created here.’

mASTer BeDroom

‘Despite being in the attic, the light in here is incredible,’ says Sarah. rosalie double bed, from £890, Sofa.com. bedside table, £70, rockett St george. house Doctor DK wall light, £98, Arbol house

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fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

c it y | 25bh

SITTING ROOM

With its rich, luxurious feel, this is the most traditionally decorated room in the house.

Malmaison damask wallpaper in Peridot, £85 a roll, Zoffany. interior design by stephanie dunning at dunning & everard

Small is beautiful

Jessie and Allan Sutherland’s period townhouse may be bijou but a sensitive revamp has ensured it is big on style

home truths THE PROPERTY Georgian townhouse L O C AT I O N Winchester R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, two bedrooms (one en suite), dressing room, bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2011 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We were living in a larger house in the countryside,’ says Jessie.

FEATURE Jennifer GouldinG | PHOTOGRAPHY Mel Yates

J

essie Sutherland and her husband Allan were living in the countryside near Winchester when they decided to downsize and move into the centre of the city. ‘We already owned a small pied-à-terre in one of the pretty streets near the cathedral, so we decided to live there full-time,’ says Jessie. ‘We loved the building’s location and quirky architecture, and I liked the feeling

of living in such a history-laden area. The house used to be part of a brewery, but you’d never guess. From the outside it looks like a sweet little flat-fronted Georgian doll’s house.’ Logistically, it seemed like the perfect solution and meant that the couple could downsize without delay.

Shortly after moving in, however, Jessie and Allan became aware of some of the building’s shortcomings. ‘The house was liveable but rather 2 5 b H au G us t 2019 | 93

DINING AREA

bAThROOM

The new layout includes this welcoming space, perfect for entertaining. byron dining chairs, £599 for two, heal’s

Situated in the cellar, this shower room is an invaluable addition, especially when Jessie’s two grown-up sons come to stay.

Joinery in Acqua Viva oil gloss, £34 for 750ml, Paint & Paper Library

hALLWAY

A smart coat rack and shelves help keep the ground floor clutter-free. wool Cord gesso runner, £54.55lin m; thick Stripes border in grey, £24.70lin m, both Alternative Flooring

KITChEN-DINER

Blush-pink walls and gold pendant lights create a glamorous backdrop for cooking.

Larger Percy pendant, £190, Pooky, is a match. walls in Light Peachblossom intelligent matt emulsion, £50 for 2.5L, Little greene

draughty,’ says Jessie. ‘The sitting room faces north and we found it cold and unappealing.’

Another disadvantage was its dimensions.

‘The house is only two rooms deep and it began to feel quite poky.’ The couple agreed it was time for a radical rethink.

Then fate took a hand. ‘I’m really interested in design and I came across a house in a magazine that struck me with its easy elegance,’ says Jessie. ‘I looked up the 94 | 2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019

designer, Stephanie Dunning, and discovered that she lived only 40 minutes’ drive away.

It seemed quite serendipitous.’ Jessie and Allan soon decided to enlist Stephanie’s help to create a beautiful yet practical home.

‘When Stephanie visited, she immediately had ideas and we ended up redoing the house from top to bottom,’ says Jessie. One of the first tasks was to reconfigure the layout, to help make the

house feel larger. The kitchen was an urgent priority. ‘It was badly laid out, which made it hard to cook,’ says Jessie. Stephanie tweaked the space to create a well thought-out arrangement of bespoke cabinets and a central island unit. She also helped the couple re-envision under-utilised spaces elsewhere in the house. ‘When I showed her the cellar, she immediately saw its potential and suggested building a shower

c it y | 25bh EN SUITE

Victorian-style geometric floor tiles add depth and interest to the scheme. woburn ceramic floor tiles, £89.70sq m, Fired earth

MASTER bEDROOM

‘The colour of our bedroom walls is beautiful,’ says Jessie. walls in oval room blue estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball

GUEST bEDROOM

Sloping ceilings give this cosy attic room its special character.

Metal trunks in blush and grey, from £160 for a set, Cox & Cox

DRESSING ROOM

Luxurious toile wallpaper adds the wow factor. odyssey wallpaper, £68m, watts of westminster

and utility room,’ says Jessie. ‘Stephanie also helped us remodel the tiny attic bedroom, making space for proper beds.’

A key feature of the renovation was Stephanie’s sensitive approach to the history of the house. In the newly built shower room, for example, she highlighted the unusual ceiling, a legacy of the former brewery, by cleaning and sealing the original brickwork.

In rooms where the period features had fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

been stripped out, she suggested workable replacements. ‘Unfortunately, the sitting room chimneypiece had been removed by a previous owner, so electric stoves were installed,’ says Jessie. ‘Our dogs love lying down in front of them!’

Another feature of the revamped interior is the clever use of colour. ‘One of the first things I noticed about Stephanie’s work was her fantastic colour schemes,’ says

Jessie. ‘Some of the shades she has used are quite dark, which I thought was rather bold, but they create lovely, intimate spaces.’

Now that the work on the property is finished, Jessie and Allan are very happy with the decisions they took. ‘Stephanie has managed to make the house as comfortable as our big house in the country,’ says Jessie.

‘It feels calm and luxurious but also really joyful, and that is really quite a feat.’

2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019 | 95

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Home to stay Alex and Chris Kinder’s search for green space ended as soon as they drove up to this grand Georgian property FEATURE ANNA TOBIN | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHAEL SMITH

Kitchen

The antiqued mirror splashback reflects the windows, enhancing the feeling of space in this room.

Similar splashback, price on request, Rough Old Glass. Runner duck jug, £13, Sophie Allport

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Kitchen-diner A dated conservatory was knocked down and replaced with this orangery-style extension.

Antique pendants, from a selection, Drew Pritchard.

Blinds in Taza in Flint, £202m, Kerry Joyce at Bear René

home truths

THE PROPERTY Georgian manor house L O C AT I O N Berkshire R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, living room, dining room, kitchen-diner, family room, utility room, two cloakrooms, seven bedrooms (three en suite), two bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 2014 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before, we lived in a Victorian house in south London,’ says Alex.

a

lex and Chris Kinder were surprised to fall in love with this grand country house as soon as they saw it, as they hadn’t been looking for a rural home. ‘We were living in a victorian home in london and all i wanted was more space and greenery,’ says alex. ‘a park or garden square was what we had in mind, but of course we found we would get more for our money if we moved out of the capital.’ the couple focused on berkshire, for ease of commuting into london. ‘We didn’t have a particular style or period of architecture in mind,’ says alex. ‘We initially looked at cottages, but because Chris and i are both quite tall, we quickly realised that their low beams didn’t suit our height! When we walked in here and saw the high ceilings and spacious rooms, it felt right.’ although the house had been well looked after, parts of it were quite tired and not suited to 21st-century family life so

as soon as they had the keys the Kinders began work on it, moving in six months later with their three daughters, maddie, 13, Claudia, 12, and thea, eight. the eighties conservatory was knocked down and replaced with a single-storey kitchen extension that was more in keeping with the property’s architecture. ‘the house is grade ii-listed,’ says alex. ‘oddly, the planners seemed more amenable to us putting up a contemporary glass box – i think because you would see the original architecture through it – but we didn’t want anything too modern. i wanted a kitchen that was more akin to a traditional orangery. it took a little longer than usual to obtain permission, but we got there in the end.’ the rest of the house was made up of several small rooms. downstairs, some internal walls were removed to create a large family room and, upstairs, some small bedrooms were turned

FAVOURITE ROOM ‘The living room is my cherished escape area. We have no TV in there so the children tend to avoid it - which leaves a lovely, calm space for us to read in’ living room

Furniture in bold block shapes lends a modern look to the space.

Julian Chichester Garcon coffee table, £2,049; sofa in de Le Cuona Eskimo Seal velvet, £173m; bespoke Bazaar rug; Villaverde chandelier, £5,500, all Bear René

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into bathrooms, changing a 10-bedroom, two-bathroom property into one with seven bedrooms and five bathrooms. not long before moving to the country, alex gave up her job in marketing to spend more time with the children and she has also relished having the time to be hands on when it came to the design choices for the house. ‘i have a background in art and i really enjoyed getting creative again with the house,’ she says. ‘i wanted a mix of modern and traditional themes. i went through dozens of magazines to create mood boards and i kept referring to these to create a look and feel for each room. starting with the kitchen, i then worked through the rest of the house to make sure that each space flowed naturally into the next.’

When it came to lighting, wallpapers and fabrics, however, alex found the sheer choice overwhelming, so she enlisted the help of nicola oaten at bear rené interior design. ‘nicola is the

maddie’s bedroom

Alex designed her eldest child’s bedroom so it would grow with her.

Barneby Gates All Star wallpaper in Gunmetal, £87 a roll, Bear René

sister-in-law of a friend and i initially consulted with her on lighting,’ says alex. ‘she walked around the house with me and gave me some ideas for joinery, but what she really helped me with was buying. she took me to the design Centre Chelsea Harbour and introduced me to lots of fabric companies i hadn’t known about or would have been too intimidated to have gone into on my own. she helped bring everything together.’

With the interior finished, alex turned her attention to the outside, installing an elegant, mosaic-tiled swimming pool and creating an inviting informal seating area surrounded by a mix of formal and relaxed flower beds. ‘We love it here now,’ she says. ‘i often wander around the house, enjoying the fact that it’s something i’ve created. When people come and stay here, they tease us that it’s like being in a boutique hotel. i suppose it is – but it’s one that we’re lucky enough to call home.’

master bedroom

Upholstered in a restful grey and beautifully dressed, the bed creates the feel of a boutique hotel room.

Bed, price on request, Greer Beds

en suite

A nickel tub sitting on parquet wood-effect tiles is the focal point in this spacious bathroom.

Bateaux bath, from £6,000, Catchpole & Rye

fo r sto c k i sts G o to w hER E to B u y

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Kitchen As the founder of design studio the nieuw, Jurjen was heavily involved in all the renovation work.

Bespoke kitchen, price on request, eginstill amsterdam

home truths P r o P e r t y a 200-year-old barn, which has been redesigned l o C at I o n Ibiza r o o M s Hallway, kitchendiner/living area, two bedrooms, bathroom P u r C h a s e d 2016 PrevIous ProPerty ‘We lived in amsterdam before deciding to move here a few years ago,’ says Jurjen.

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Island adv e nture Relocating from Amsterdam to Ibiza gave Jurjen van Hulzen, his wife Selina and their young family a chance to fully embrace Mediterranean living Feature Marc Heldens | PhotograPhy Verne PHotograPHy

c oa s ta l | 25bh terrAce the oversized, whimsical light adds to the playful feeling of a fiesta. ceiling lamp, €449, ay Illuminate at Ibiza Interiors Dining AreA A fan of design classics, Jurjen sells his favourite pieces in his Amsterdam boutique and online. eames chairs, from €450 each, the Modern living AreA Windows make a more joyful focal point to place chairs around than a tv. outline sofa, from £4,495, Heal’s. safari chair, €975, Ibiza Interiors

H

aving moved to the beautiful island in 2016, Jurjen van Hulzen and Selina Heitman now live on the second highest mountain in Ibiza with their children Mads, eight, Lou, six, and Zeger, four. Their home is close to the village of San Lorenzo, where Jurjen also has his interior design office, Ibiza Interiors. The surroundings are a patchwork of green forest, almond, olive and pine trees, and areas of red arable land, all of which becomes the idyllic view the family get to enjoy from the terrace of the old finca. The finca came with an annexe, which Jurjen decided to renovate for guests.

‘It’s now usable for both living and dining, and there was even enough space to add an extra bedroom and bathroom,’ he says. Soon after the annexe was finished, the family moved to the 200-year-old ‘loft’ located down the hill, which was to become their new home.

‘When I first visited the property I could see that it was a nice place, but the building was rather dilapidated,’ says Jurjen. ‘However, the architect in me always sees opportunities in rundown buildings.’

An interior architect by trade, Jurjen was keen to expand his interiors businesses after the move from Amsterdam, developing properties and selling his designer furniture, carpets, beautiful lighting fixtures and contemporary art on the island. So when it came to deciding on the interior of his own new home, it is no surprise that he chose to furnish it with design classics, such as the Hans Wegner and Eames chairs. Everything was arranged to emphasise the extraordinary views over

design tip ‘Vintage is more than just old or second-hand. It’s about authenticity, original production and meaning in design history’ 2 5 b h au g us t 2019 | 101

25bh | c oa s ta l MasTer b aT h r o o M Make room for two with a floor-mounted tap. bath spout, €2,142, Cocoon. bath, price on request, Not only white MasTer bedrooM Linen sheets are a great choice in hot climates.

Linen bedlinen, from €29.95 for a pillowcase, Dutch home Fabrics Terrace a stylish woven roof provides plenty of shade in the heat of the day. try bamboo screening, from £27.99, Primrose

the valley. Large metal windows and doors provide visibility, light and a connection between the interior and the terrace, while from the kitchen, whoever is cooking enjoys views towards the island’s highest point.

From the outside, the converted white barn looks deceptively like a flat white box. But inside, the warmth of the wooden beamed ceiling and the metal frames in the façade give it plenty of character and make it an inviting, welcoming space. Throughout the interior, Jurjen used different textures for the furniture and materials, creating a curated mix-and-match finish.

The Ibizan atmosphere clearly influenced Jurjen’s work as the traditional architecture and the old landscape merge effortlessly with the more modern, yet classically stylish, ambience inside the converted barn.

‘The archetypal local finca has mostly wooden ceilings, a pine tree, and walls built with boulders and finished with lime plaster and sturdy concrete stable floors,’ says Jurjen. ‘I translated those authentic elements into a more contemporary sphere. For example, the bathroom flooring is made from terracotta plinth-tiles, but laid in a herringbone pattern. But there are also Japanese and Scandinavian influences and the addition of special artworks – in short, it’s a game of contrasts.’

The rustic-industrial tone also has echoes of a New York loft – but with the addition of a sunny terrace and views out to Ibiza Old Town in the distance.

So are the family here to stay? ‘We’re not in a hurry to move,’ says Jurjen. ‘We’ve worked so hard, we’re now trying to live life in the present and just enjoy it!’

last word ‘We love the sense of freedom we have here – the clean air, nature, the international community and the sunny weather’ 102 | 2 5 b h au g us t 2019

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

summer magic Clara Tengbom fulfilled a lifelong dream when she built her own special retreat on an idyllic Swedish island FEATURE Jane Bowles PHOTOGRAPHY Johan sellĂŠn/living inside

c oa s ta l | 25bh

exterior the house is a kit home, but Clara worked with the manufacturers to make a few modifications.

Kit house, from a selection, eBK huse.

Jambi natural woven occasional chairs, ÂŁ195 each, habitat, would also work here. The Pali Balcony parasol, ÂŁ40, B&Q, has this look

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home truths

THE PROPERTY Detached kit house L O C AT I O N An archipelago near Stockholm R O O M S Hallway, living/dining area, kitchen, snug, three bedrooms, bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2016 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘I lived in a city-centre apartment in Stockholm before,’ says Clara.

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c oa s ta l | 25bh Living/ dining area This space needs little decoration as the vaulted ceiling and windows bring character.

Rais Rina woodburning stove, from £2,020, Robeys, has this look. Fritz Hansen Super-Elliptical dining table, £3,491, Love the Sign, is a match. Gio Ponti Superleggera dining chairs, £3,369 for a set of six, Pamono, are similar.

Louis Poulsen PH 5 pendant light, £675, Nest

FAVOURITE ROOM ‘I love the living area for its large windows, which blur boundaries and bring nature into my home’

LiviNg AreA the zebra-print rug adds a fun touch to Clara’s scandi scheme. ‘i bought the chairs at auction,’ she says.

Zebra-print cowhide rug, £390, hide rugs, is similar.

Listerby coffee table, £135, Ikea, has this look. wilma cream and birch wood pendant light, £65, habitat, is a match

C

lara Tengbom had been living and working in the centre of Stockholm for years, but always harboured a secret ambition to own a summer house by the sea. ‘It was a lifelong dream,’ she says. ‘The Swedish archipelago landscape is amazing, all craggy cliffs and pine trees. There are around 25,000 islands, all within an hour’s drive of Stockholm. My parents and brother already owned houses there and I liked the idea of being close to my family.’

Then fate took a hand. ‘I was visiting Denmark on holiday when I saw a Danish kit house I really liked. I instantly fell in love with the simplicity of the design and I especially loved the large windows,’ says Clara. ‘Ironically, I come from a family of architects; my father, Svante, is an architect and I’d always assumed he’d design a house for me one day. So I asked him what he thought. Happily, he saw the potential of the kit house at once. My parents also gave me a plot of land to build the house on, so I decided to take the plunge.’

Clara then arranged to visit the factory of EBK Huse, which manufactures the kit houses in Denmark. ‘I also needed space for my two grown-up sons, Karl and Nils, and was confident that, with a few small tweaks and adjustments, the house would suit our lifestyle perfectly,’ says Clara. ‘My main goal was to create the ideal space for hanging out with family and friends.’

Working closely with her father and the manufacturers, Clara made several modifications to the kit house’s basic

FAVOURITE ITEM ‘I love my extendable dining table because although it appears

1 2

1

DiNiNg AreA the earthy tones of the window frames and a jute rug echo the wooded area outside. riya extra large woven jute rug, £249, Made. com, is comparable

2

KitCHeN White surfaces give Clara’s kitchen a spacious feel.

Voxtorp cabinet doors, £60 each; Säljan laminate worktop, £40 for a 1.86m length, both Ikea, are a match.

Cusko floating shelves, £9 each, b&Q, have this look

3

sNug A blue-and-white scheme ensures this tucked-away room has a timeless look. grey sheepskin, £59, woolroom, is similar. hemnes daybed, £240, Ikea, would work well

4

NiLs’ BeDrOOM using the cladding on the ceiling delivers a smart finish.

Milford bedspread, from £100, the white Company, would complement this scheme. rubin medium lantern, £349, heal’s, is a match

c oa s ta l | 25bh MAster BeDrOOM Natural textures and soft furnishings make Clara’s bedroom a relaxing haven. wilson mirror, £119, Made.com, recreates this look. hambledon raw oak stool, from £100, garden trading, would also work here. Cranbourne duck egg wool throw, £90, Laura Ashley, is similar

design. Several windows in the kitchen were changed and a skylight was installed to maximise the flow of light into the space.

Some of the internal wall partitions were removed and the external roofing was replaced with a metal design. A roof was also installed to the terrace at the front of the house. ‘It means even when the weather is rainy we can still eat outdoors,’ says Clara.

She and her father designed the kitchen and bathroom, too. ‘We wanted the look to be as basic as possible, so we kept it white and simple,’ she says. Since Clara has a demanding job as an executive TV producer in Stockholm, her father agreed to project-manage the build. ‘The manufacturers recommended a firm of contractors and, fortunately, everything went smoothly,’ says Clara. ‘It took about a year from start to finish.’

While the building work was being carried out, Clara spent some time envisioning and planning the decor.

Once again, simplicity was the key. In keeping with classic Scandi design, all the internal walls were painted white, and wood cladding and flooring were used throughout. ‘Since the house was designed in Denmark, I really liked the idea of furnishing it with classic Danish furniture,’ says Clara.

‘I love the designs and I adore the patina of old wood and vintage pieces.’ Many happy hours were spent browsing online and trawling auction websites, waiting for just the right pieces to appear.

Finishing touches were then added,

to seat only four people it can comfortably host a dinner party of up to 20 guests’ with soft, natural textiles, lively blue accents, and splashes of red and black.

Clara feels that her island home is the perfect antidote to her busy life in Stockholm. ‘I try to come here every weekend between May and September,’ she says. ‘I bring my black Labrador, Bosse, and he’s made friends with the bees and chickens I keep here. My mornings are spent gardening – I’m a passionate tomato grower. My family often comes over in the evenings and we cook dinner on the grill outdoors – there can be 15 of us.’

With her summer house now complete, Clara is thrilled with her island oasis.

‘The house has totally surpassed my expectations,’ she says. ‘It’s everything I ever wanted – it really is a dream come true.’ fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

3 4

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AWARD-WINNING LUXURY RIVER CRUISES IN EUROPE Burgundy, the River RhÔne & Provence with Oz Clarke 8 days from £2,199PP From the lush green vineyards of Burgundy to the sun-kissed hills of Provence and the wild ruggedness of the Ardèche gorges to the medieval allure of Avignon – every day is full of fascination.

Departing 30 September 2019

The ship was fantastic as was the food, and the “crew were exceptional. The guided tours in the places we visited were more than interesting with very knowledgeable guides. Mr & Mrs Parsons

”

ItÕs all included in the price  Oz Clarke’s hosted talk, dinner and wine tastings featuring a selection of wines  Tour of superbly preserved, medieval Avignon and the stunning Pope’s Palace  Guided tour of Arles, with its extraordinary Roman remains and home of Vincent Van Gogh  Visit to the Pont du Gard  Tour of the astonishing Ardèche Gorges  Cruise the spectacular Rhône valley

 Visit to charming Vienne  Visit to Beaune, centre of the Burgundy wine region plus a wine tasting  Guided tour of Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital  Return flights from a selection of regional airports or standard class seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras International  Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, all with river view  Services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and concierge

Call 01283 743370 to book or for a free brochure, or visit tbhriviera.co.uk TERMS & CONDITIONS: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are based on two people sharing and are correct at time of print. Single supplements may apply.

Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of 25 Beautiful Homes, published by TI Media Limited.

c oa s ta l | 25bh SITTING ROOM

A mix of vintage and contemporary furnishings adds a modern twist.

Charlie armchair, £449, Swoon. Andalucia Zahara rug, £380, Weaver Green

seaside escape Michelle Kreussel and Wojtek Godzisz left the capital for a home by the coast where they could live and work FEATURE ISOBEL DIAMOND | PHOTOGRAPHY BARBARA BAZSO

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SITTING ROOM

Pink and blue are a theme in Michelle’s display of artwork and make the grouping look cohesive.

Habitat’s walnut wooden tripod floor lamp base, £170, is similar

FAVOURITE ROOM ‘The kitchen is where we hang out

home truths

THE PROPERTY Terraced house, built in 1850 L O C AT I O N East Sussex R O O M S Sitting room, kitchen-diner, breakfast room, studio, four bedrooms, two bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 2013 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in a two-up-two-down in west London,’ says Michelle.

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W

hen Michelle Kreussel and her husband Wojtek Godzisz decided to swap their two-up two-down property in London for a larger home by the sea, they were also seeking a completely new lifestyle. ‘When we walked in, I just knew this was the house for us,’ says Michelle. ‘It had the right flow and proportions and we loved the original features.’ The Victorian terrace, set across five floors, was previously rented out, so it was in a neglected and run-down state. But it retained its period fireplaces and cornicing and the large

wooden double doors dividing the kitchen and sitting room were an appealing feature.

The couple took their time renovating the key rooms, to create a family home for daughters, Penelope, four, and 18-month-old Beatrix. ‘The bones of the house were in good condition but the basement was uninhabitable, with no plumbing or electricity,’ says Michelle. ‘When we saw it, we knew we could turn it into a work area.’

Michelle and Wojtek have given the interior a contemporary style full of character inspired by its seaside setting.

The floorboards were sanded and oiled

c oa s ta l | 25bh

KITCHEN-DINER

Mismatched chairs are teamed with a painted table for a relaxed feel.

Loaf’s Toaster dining table in Vintage White, £895, would look good here.

Rigid units, price on request, Howdens

and socialise with friends’ throughout and traditional shutters were added in the sitting room and master bedroom. ‘Because the rooms are so big, it’s nice to have colour on the walls, so they feel cosy rather than empty,’ says Michelle.

Michelle grew up in South Africa, and after travelling to England on a working holiday 20 years ago, made the UK her permanent home. ‘It can be dark here compared to South Africa,’ she says.

‘Thankfully the house’s large windows and high ceilings bring a sense of space and light.’

The basement has been transformed into two bright creative studios, giving the

BREAKFAST ROOM

Soft green walls create a soothing atmosphere.

Walls in Breakfast Room Green estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball. Fox and cubs cushion, £35, Lush Designs

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MASTER BEDROOM

‘I love the look of raw plaster and this is a similar wall colour,’ says Michelle. walls in Setting Plaster estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball. Jaipur green and Coral cotton dhurrie rug, £195; griselle Indigo blue bedspread, £339, rockett St george

DESIGN advice ‘When I find something I like in an antiques or junk shop, I think carefully about where it will work in the room’ couple a place to work – Michelle, as a designer and maker of children’s accessories, and Wojtek as a musician. ‘Working from home means I can be there with the girls as they grow up, adjusting my day around them, and working while they play,’ explains Michelle, who sells her work through her Etsy shop, The Fox in the Attic.

The creative community of artists and musicians who live around their East Sussex town is another great advantage of being here. ‘I also love the area’s historic houses and distinctive architecture, as well as the 114 | 2 5 b h au g uS t 2019

many interesting events and festivals that take place in the town,’ says Michelle.

The neighbouring areas are packed with antiques and junk shops and many of the period pieces in the house were bought locally. ‘Because our rooms are large, we had a lot of space to fill,’ explains Michelle. ‘You buy things when you find them – that’s how it works.’ The bedroom shared by their daughters is full of visual inspiration, from vintage toys to brightly painted furniture.

‘We wanted a unisex room that was colourful and fun,’ says Michelle. ‘I like

baskets and portable storage. The girls can play during the day, and then we can easily store everything away in the evening.’

In a house this size, there is always potential. ‘I’d love to redo the master bathroom,’ says Michelle. ‘One day I will also get to work on the garden and create a decked area.’ The couple haven’t yet started the attic renovation. ‘Wojtek would like it to be a social space, with a cinema room and a place for the girls to use when they’re older,’ says Michelle. ‘It’s so nice to know we have room to grow as a family.’

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BATHROOM

A pared-back scheme allows the room’s beautiful window and wood flooring to remain the focus. the Duravit DuraSquare freestanding bath, £3,890, CP hart, is a good alternative. Cornflower hammam towel, £45, weaver green

GUEST BEDROOM

Prints hung at a low level look quirky and interesting. try the Laurel green and grey herringbone throw, £60, the british blanket Company

GIRLS’ BEDROOM

Vintage finds add character. the original bed Company’s timolin iron/metal bed frame, £299, is a good alternative

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

2 5 b h au g uS t 2019 | 115

25bh | c it y

KITCHEN-DINER By choosing to simply paint the existing kitchen units, the couple were able to invest more of their budget in their other projects.

Walls in Purbeck stone estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L; cabinets in railings estate eggshell, £62 for 2.5L, both Farrow & ball. sideboard, £530, unto This Last. Wishbone dining chairs, £139 each, Cult Furniture. bolt neon light, £59, bag & bones

In for a surprIse After an out-of-the-blue move and a taxing renovation, Hannah and Jamie Tutton finally have a home they never imagined they would live in feature Abbi Henderson | photography GeorGiA burns

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home truths the property Victorian terrace L o C at I o n southwest London r o o M s sitting room, kitchen-diner, playroom, four bedrooms, two bathrooms p u r C h a s e D 2015 preVIous property ‘We had a Victorian maisonette near here,’ says Hannah.

SITTING ROOM Contrasting paint details lend Hannah and Jamie’s home a unique character. walls in Pavilion gray, mantelpiece in railings, both £46.50 for 2.5L estate emulsion, Farrow & ball

C

omfortable and content in the period maisonette they had spent three years lovingly renovating, Hannah and Jamie Tutton were not looking to relocate. However, with school on the horizon for their daughter, Eula, then three, and another baby on the way, they soon found themselves house hunting. ‘We began by casually browsing properties online and attending viewings to see what we could afford in our area,’ says Hannah.

After seeing several houses, this particular property turned out to be too good an opportunity to miss. ‘The ground floor was so much larger than any other we had viewed and, as it had been empty for a year, there was room to negotiate on the price,’ says Hannah. ‘So we just went for it, and put our maisonette on the market the same week I went into hospital to have Maggie.’

Their maisonette sold within a week, allowing the couple to go ahead with the move and begin renovating their new property.

Although it had ample space and plenty of potential, the interior of the new house left a lot to be desired. ‘It was hard moving from a shiny, renovated home to a dirty and unloved property – especially with a new baby,’ says Hannah. ‘Jamie and I gave the ground floor a quick makeover to make it feel more homely.’ The pair painted everything from the sitting room walls to the kitchen unit doors, then replaced lighting, sockets and switches. ‘We lived with the house half finished for six months until our finances had recovered from the move. It was grotty upstairs for the duration, but it’s funny what you learn to live with and eventually ignore.’

When budget allowed, the real renovation work began from the top down. First was the loft conversion which was in need of a lot of love – not to mention a reconfiguration. ‘We wanted two reasonably sized children’s rooms

up there, plus a shower room they could both access,’ says Hannah.

So, the couple repositioned the entrance to the loft, created a landing and moved the shower room to sit between the two new bedrooms, which now belong to six-year-old Eula and Hannah’s stepson, Cameron, 17.

Six months later, it was the turn of the first floor to get a new aesthetic – or, more accurately, an entire rebuild – removing fireplaces and repositioning a doorway and walls to allow for a larger, more family-friendly bathroom. However, it wasn’t completely straightforward.

‘I remember meeting the builder and structural engineer and being very blasé about moving chimney breasts and walls, completely naive to the mess and total chaos it would cause,’ Hannah says.

‘In the early days of the project, I came up the stairs to check on progress and was shocked that the back half of the house had been completely gutted, held up by metal and supports, and the reality of the renovation really hit me.’ Despite the unexpected mess and a month-long move to a friend’s house for the duration of the build, it mainly went to plan; the only hiccup being that the steels needed to hold up the chimney stacks couldn’t be mounted into the ceiling, and would instead protrude into the rooms. However, Hannah had a simple solution: ‘I decided to make a feature of them, creating a display shelf in the master bedroom and a colourful wall mural in Maggie’s room to make them look intentional,’ she says.

While the renovations are complete, Hannah is considering whether there is still room for improvement on the ground floor.

‘I like to use a space to its full potential,’ she says. ‘We have a slice of side return that was never included in the previous works and I’d like to use it to create a cloakroom and utility room.

We’ll have to wait and see.’

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MASTER BEDROOM ‘Our bedroom is fairly small, so I was keen to optimise the space we do have,’ says Hannah.

Alice ribbed headboard bed, from £1,418, Love your home. rug, £450, edit58

f a v o u r i t e i t e m ‘The piece I love most has to be the vintage Singer sewing machine in the dining area – it was my grandmother’s, so it has sentimental value’

MAGGIE’S BEDROOM ‘I created the mural,’ says Hannah. ‘I drew a design, marked it out in masking tape and then painted it.’ walls in Stone blue and Pink ground estate emulsion, both £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball

B AT H R O O M Hannah chose a fully tiled look in here for a classic look that wouldn’t date.

Metro tiles, £19.50sq m, topps tiles. Cabinet in railings estate eggshell, £62 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019 | 119

Making Wav e s

home truths

the ProPerty Detached new build L o c at i o n Cornwall r o o M s Living area/ kitchen-diner, Tv room, utility room, cloakroom, four bedrooms (all en suite), wet room P u r c h a s e d 2010 Previous ProPerty ‘We live in a house in London during the week,’ says alex.

Alex Michaelis and Susanna Bell demolished a neglected Cornish cottage and built a stunning clifftop villa with fabulous views of the sea Feature Jo Leevers | PhotograPhy PauL Massey

DiNiNG AREA A textured wood table breaks up the harder, more architectural surfaces of the room. rebecca table, £420, Perch & Parrow, is similar. Kura white lampshade, £40, Habitat, is a match. Kartell Masters chair is similar, £173, Heal’s

120 | 2 5 b h auG us T 2019

c oa s ta l | 25bh

liviNG AREA The muted soft grey tones make the whole room feel calm. sofa with scatter cushions, £2,300, Designers Guild.

Cashmere rug, £4,000, Luke Irwin. rais woodburner, £2,400, robeys. elliptical eTr coffee table, £1,830, Charles and ray eames at vitra

KiTCHEN Sleek white cabinetry is a natural fit with the minimalist feel of this space.

Bespoke minimalist kitchen, price on application, Bulthaup. oak flooring, £300sq m, Dinesen

25bh | c oa s ta l

W

hen Alex Michaelis and Susanna Bell were seeking a holiday home in Cornwall, the right location was top of their wish list. So when they viewed a dilapidated house in a dramatic clifftop setting, they were impressed with the stunning coastal vistas and agreed they preferred panoramic views to quaint Cornish cottages.

‘The old house had been empty for years and the walls were basically crumbling slate, held together with layers of paint,’ Alex, an architect, says. ‘If we had started to renovate what was already there, the house would probably have collapsed.’ Knocking it down and rebuilding was the best option, not least because it allowed Alex’s imagination free rein. He promptly set about designing a new building, maintaining the sea’s horizon as the constant focal point.

‘Each room has been designed to make the most of the view,’ he says.

The central open-plan area is a multi-purpose space for living, eating, cooking and socialising. It is fronted and backed by glass, and the sliding doors on the seaward side are kept open as much as possible during the summer months. Slightly removed from this light-filled hub is the ground-floor children’s bunk room – the

couple have seven children between them. On the first floor, all three bedrooms have glass screen windows that open onto the sea.

As one half of architectural duo Michaelis Boyd, Alex is renowned for his signature touches such as porthole windows, organic curves, and circular light wells. ‘There are a few porthole shapes in here,’ he agrees. The house is designed with sustainability in mind, since Alex believes that energy conservation and insulation must be structural features of a building from the outset. The house re-uses existing heat and light, while allowing for ventilation and, thanks to the layout, enjoys maximum natural light. Pristine white walls and sliding screen windows provide a perfect backdrop for a palette of muted greys and coastal blues. Natural textures such as wood and seagrass abound, adding to the relaxing coastal feel.

Now the project is complete, all that remains of the old house is the original rickety wooden gate, together with its previous name, Little Cottage, left as a whimsical introduction to the new building.

‘People expect to come down the path and find a quaint little place,’ says Susanna. ‘And then this amazing building reveals itself. It’s always enjoyable to see how surprised people are.’

MAsTER BEDROOM The full-length sliding glass window provides stunning views of the sea.

Malm bed frame, £210, Ikea. Void steel pendant light, £350, tom Dixon. Franklin bedside table is similar, £250, habitat

WET ROOM Aqua mosaic tiling and limestone flooring have an earth-and-sky look.

Mosaics by bisazza, £213sq m, Majorelle Interiors. Limestone tiling is similar, £39.99sq m, Mandarin Stone

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EXTERIOR This outdoor seating area is designed to let you gaze at the vista, even in rainy weather.

Kingston garden sofa set is similar, £5,099, bridgman

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

reader offers

| 25b h

EUROPEAN ESCORTED TOURS

Fascinating European tours that take you to the iconic highlights as well as lesser-known gems.

CLASSICAL SPAIN - SEVILLE, CÓRDOBA & GRANADA

DUBROVNIK, THE DALMATIAN COAST & MONTENEGRO

Seven days from £599pp

Eight days’ half board from £899pp

Departures up to November 2019 & March to November 2020

Departures up to October 2019

PRICE INCLUDES ● Experience the iconic cathedral, vibrant streets and tranquil parks of beautiful Seville on a tour led by a local guide ● Enjoy the authentic tastes and traditions of tapas on an evening introduction to these delicious Spanish appetisers in Seville ● Explore the mountain fringed city of Granada and visit the outstanding Alhambra Palace ● Visit historic Córdoba and take a guided tour of the Mezquita, probably the world’s most beautiful mosque ● Marvel at the natural drama of Ronda, a city spectacularly situated across a plunging gorge ● Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers ● Six nights in three star superior and four star accommodation, with breakfast ● The services of an experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

PRICE INCLUDES ● Explore Dubrovnik, Byron’s ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ ● Marvel at the rushing waters of the Krka National Park’s dense and dramatic interlocking waterfalls ● Cross the iconic Stari Most bridge, now returned to its former glory in Mostar, once Europe’s border with the Ottoman Empire ● Immerse yourself in the history of Emperor Diocletian’s monumental palace in Split, brought to life by the intimate knowledge of a local guide ● Discover the delights of medieval Trogir, one of Dalmatia’s most alluring old ports ● Soak up the unspoilt splendour of Montenegro through sights in Kotor and Perast, including an amazing island church ● Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers ● Seven nights’ four star hotel accommodation with breakfast and dinner ● The services of an experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

POMPEII, CAPRI & THE BAY OF NAPLES

THE AZORES

Eight days from £699pp

Eight days from £1,099pp

Departures up to November 2019

Departures from September to November 2019

PRICE INCLUDES ● Explore the amazingly preserved Roman town of Herculaneum with an expert local guide ● Take a boat trip to the stunning island of Capri, with the opportunity to visit the Blue Grotto ● Discover the mysteries of Pompeii on a guided tour and visit the Naples Archaeological Museum ● Spend a full day touring the breathtaking Amalfi coast, with a visit to charming hilltop Ravello ● Stay in elegant Sorrento and enjoy a walking tour of this stylish resort ● Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers ● Seven nights in a choice of conveniently located accommodation rated three to four star superior, plus breakfast and dinner (stays at the Hotel Mediterraneo are on a bed and breakfast basis) ● The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

PRICE INCLUDES ● Explore the natural and man made wonders of São Miguel, Faial and Pico ● Marvel at the beautiful crater lakes of Sete Cidades and Furnas ● Be awed by the mighty peak of Pico volcano, the highest point in Portugal ● Experience the otherworldly landscape of Capelinhos and learn about the Azores’ fascinating volcanic origins at its superb museum ● Discover Faial, nicknamed the ‘blue island’ for its profusion of hydrangeas ● Stroll through Terra Nostra, a botanical wonderland, and take a dip in hot springs famed for their healing powers ● Discover the UNESCO listed volcanic vineyards of Pico and visit a wine museum ● Tour the only tea plantation and pineapple greenhouse in Europe ● Return flights from a selection of UK airports, plus all hotel transfers ● Domestic flights and ferry crossings as detailed ● Seven nights in four star accommodation, with breakfast and one dinner ● The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

Call 01283 743370 to book or for a free brochure, or visit tbhriviera.co.uk TERMS & CONDITIONS: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are based on two people sharing and are correct at time of print.

Single supplements may apply. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of 25 Beautiful Homes, published by TI Media Limited.

25bh | c o u ntry

Converted in Colour Tor Vivian’s barn conversion has been brought to life with a mix of vintage, modern and antique furniture – and lots of colourful artwork FEATURE ElizabEth hutton | PHOTOGRAPHY Jody StEwart

LIVING area

Tor’s vibrant artwork gives this traditional space a modern edge.

Man in Hammock painting by andrew hewkin, price on request. libra distressed iron arch window mirror, £209, homelia, is a good alternative

124 | 2 5 b H au G uS t 2019

DINING area A striking pendant light draws the eye upwards to the original roof beams.

Metal globe with crystals chandelier, £746, turnbull & thomas. the Edinburgh dining table, £1,390, neptune, is similar

home truths THE PROPERTY 200-year old converted barn L O C AT I O N yorkshire R O O M S hallway, living area/ kitchen-diner, sitting room, snug, study, utility room, boot room, cloakroom, five bedrooms, four bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 2016 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘we were living in a house nearby before moving here,’ says tor.

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SITTING ROOM

Plenty of cushions create a snug and cosy ambience.

Plain velvet cushion covers, £54 each, oka. try Maisons du Monde’s grey cotton and wool berber rug, £439

HALLWAy

‘I found this peacock in a gallery when I was 21,’ says Tor. wall in Stone blue estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & ball

KITCHEN

A pop art print brings an element of fun to this scheme.

Marilyn silk screen print, price on request, Sunday b Morning. Squiggle vases, £330 each, tyson London

fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

c o u ntry | 25bh

F

ew homeowners can say that they bought their home by accident, but that’s exactly what happened to interior designer Tor Vivian. ‘We hadn’t been planning to move house at all, when I bumped into a friend in a local shop,’ says Tor. ‘My friend told me she was selling her home – a 200-year old converted barn – but hadn’t had much interest, so she suggested I take a look. Out of curiosity, I went to view it with my husband Tom. We fell in love with it, despite the fact that it was badly in need of renovation. It had been rented out for 15 years and didn’t even have a proper kitchen, but it had lots of potential.’

As soon as the purchase was completed, Tor drew up a schedule of building work. ‘When we moved in, we had an issue with the layout,’ she says. ‘There was always going to be one room that people would need to walk through, so I decided to turn it into an open-plan kitchen-diner. Happily, we didn’t need to knock down many walls.’ The couple also converted the garage into a self-contained suite for guests.

With the structural work complete, Tor turned her attention to the decor. ‘It was really easy as I had a lot of art and furniture already, so I designed the barn’s interior around those pieces,’ she says. ‘I worked in the same way I

last wor d ‘If you see a piece of

furniture or painting you love, buy it, even if you’re not sure where it will go.

If you like it, it will work somewhere’

STUDy

This room is connected to George’s bedroom.

‘He never leaves it,’ says Tor. Andrew Martin Library wallpaper in Multicoloured, £143 for two rolls, houseology

DAISy’S BEDROOM

Tor’s daughter helped to design this scheme, which was inspired by LA. barneby gates Marrakech Palm wallpaper in Soft gold, £87 a roll, Jane Clayton & Company

would for a client, creating a budget, mood boards and room plans. I like a mix of vintage, antique and modern pieces. If everything is new, there’s no sense of history and no story.’

The walls were then painted in Tor’s favourite shades, including a striking blue colour for the hallway. ‘Initially, Tom needed convincing,’ says Tor, ‘and I had to paint huge samples onto lining paper to prove it was the way to go. I was going to do it anyway but he agreed after seeing the samples!’

Tor also took inspiration from some of the designs she’s created for her clients over the years. ‘I’ve used some of my favourites here, like the mirrored tiles in the bathroom, for example,’ she says. Tor’s children, Daisy, now 21, and George, 18, were also involved in designing their bedrooms, although Tor took control. ‘My daughter came to the office to work on it,’ says Tor. ‘What she did isn’t what I would have done, but I can’t stamp my ideas on to her because of my profession.’

The barn’s neutral palette is also the perfect backdrop for Tor’s collection of paintings and other artwork. ‘My father was a great art lover, so I got a few hand-me-downs that got me started,’ she says. ‘I go to exhibitions and I can’t leave without buying something. It doesn’t have to be expensive – what I love is finding something that Tom and I both like.’

Although Tor and her family have moved house 12 times in the last eight years, she doesn’t rule out the possibility of moving again. ‘Our next place will definitely still be in this area,’ she says. ‘There is no way my family would move back to London now. We all love it here so much.’

2 5 b h Au g uS t 2019 | 127

living AreA A huge linen sofa defines the seating zone within this open-plan space; the chunky timber coffee table adds all-important texture to the neutral scheme.

The Ghost 16 sofa by Paola Navone for Gervasoni, £6,425, The Conran Shop, is similar

O U T WA R D B O U N D A new extension with a modernist sensibility beautifully connects Alex and Dave Bennett’s home with its outdoor spaces FEATURE RACHEL LEEDHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY LYNDEN FOSS/LIVING INSIDE

128 | 2 5 B H Au G uS T 2019

c oa s ta l | 25bh exterior the pool is in constant use by all the family. An almost invisible gate separates it from the dining area.

Take a look at the Chelsea dining table, £1,645; and benches, £635 each, all Indian Ocean

home truths

T H E P R O P E R T Y Eighties detached house L O c AT i O N Byron Bay, Australia R O O m s Hallway, living area/kitchen-diner, cloakroom, five bedrooms (two en suite), bathroom P U R c H A s E D 2016 PREviOUs PROPERTY ‘Prior to living here we owned a guest house nearby,’ says Alex.

2 5 B H Au G uS T 2019 | 129

kitchen-Diner Simple birch cupboards are elevated with brass handles and worktops in white elba marble.

Feathertop table, from AU $5,390; Dreamweaver pendant light in Natural, AU $890, both Pop & Scott. Halo chairs in American oak, AU $620 each, Something Beginning With. Cane loungers (right), AU $869 each, Worn. Studio woodburner (above right), from ÂŁ1,799, Stovax

130 | 2 5 b h AUg US t 2019

c oa s ta l | 25bh

A

fter selling their guest house in Byron Bay, Alex Bennett and her husband Dave decided it was time to find a place they could really call home. ‘We felt we were ready for a very different project,’ explains Alex, who works as an interior stylist and creative consultant. ‘Our guest house had a Palm Springs aesthetic and our previous properties had been quintessential beach houses, but this time we wanted a family home with a cleaner and more simplified design.’

The property they decided on was an Eighties bungalow in the suburbs of Byron Bay. ‘What I loved about it is that it didn’t feel tied to any particular time or style – it meant we could put our own stamp on it,’ notes Alex, who enlisted the help of award-winning architectural practice Those Architects to come up with the plans to remodel the property. ‘Our brief was to create something very solid, durable and practical with lots of natural light and a big living space incorporating a kitchen,’ Alex remembers. ‘We got all of this plus more!’

The refurbishment, which took almost a year to complete, entailed completely gutting the original building. All of the external walls were kept, but most of the door and window positions were changed, as was the entire internal layout.

Three metres of the rear of the house were chopped off in order to build a new two-storey extension with a modernist design to connect the house with the outdoor spaces.

The couple, who have two young children – Parker is five and Scout is two – visited the site most days. ‘I am very

f a v o u r i t e f e a t u r e ‘I think the biggest surprise is how light the house is. I hadn’t expected it to be so full of natural daylight’

MASTER BEDROOM A partial wall helped to create a dressing area. the hector Medium dome wall light is comparable, £129, original btC. Larusi’s linen flat sheet in Mud, from £132.50, will create a similar effect

132 | 2 5 b h Au g us t 2019

c oa s ta l | 25bh

SCOUT’S BEDROOM Alex found the vintage watercolours on eBay. Caravan crib, from €1,269, Kalon

GUEST BEDROOM Layering neutrals ensures the look is serene but interesting.

Desert #10 photograph, from Au $285, Pampa

obsessive about the details,’ explains Alex, who adds that the build wasn’t without its complications: ‘Renovating rather than rebuilding was more expensive than planned, as there were a lot of unknowns in the quality of the existing structure. We ended up amending some of the details to try to reduce costs along the way,’ she recalls. But Alex is the first to say that all the inconveniences were definitely worth it. ‘We love the house; it strongly reflects our family’s style – pared back with lots of open space and natural light,’ she says. ‘Everything was designed to suit the way we like to live.’

The architecture is clean but by no means clinical, thanks to textural details, such as whitewashed brick walls and natural materials including birch for the kitchen units and white tulip oak for the flooring in the upstairs bedrooms.

Alex has complemented the architecture with furniture, accessories and art in a palette of soft, earthy hues. ‘I think these designs really enhance the warmth of the house,’ she explains of choices such as inviting cane lounge chairs, a raw oak coffee table and a simple dining table whose honeyed tones nicely complement the pale timber of the kitchen.

Perhaps the biggest triumph of the redesign is the way in which the house now opens up to the outdoor spaces, including a grassed area, a small pool and a dining space complete with built-in barbecue. ‘We love sitting out on warm nights for a meal with friends,’ says Alex. ‘The adults can chat while the children run and play on the grass. It’s a fun way to spend an evening.’ fo r sto c k i sts g o to w her e to b u y

En SUiTE The mirrored cabinets provide streamlined storage and increase the sense of space.

For similar flooring, try the bologna terrazzo honed tiles, £77.11sq m, terrazzo tiles

2 5 b h Au g us t 2019 | 133

25bh | s to c k i s t s

where to buy Details of companies featured in the August issue

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Al Murad al-murad.co.uk Alternative Flooring alternativeflooring.com Amara amara.com Amazon amazon.co.uk Anderson’s Themes and Dreams andersonsthemesanddreams.co.uk Andrew Hewkin andrewhewkin.com Anna Mac annamac.com Annabel Playfair annabelplayfair.co.uk Annie Sloan anniesloan.com Appliances Direct appliancesdirect.co.uk Arbol House ovohome.com B&Q diy.com Bag & Bones bagandbones.co.uk Bear René bearrene.com Bert & May bertandmay.com Blackpop blackpop.co.uk BoConcept boconcept.co.uk Bridgman bridgman.co.uk Bronte by Moon brontebymoon.co.uk Bulthaup bulthaup.co.uk Cast Iron Radiators castironradiators.ltd.uk Catchpole & Rye catchpoleandrye.com Chiltern Oak Furniture chilternoakfurniture.co.uk Chunky Monkey chunkymonkeyfurniture.co.uk ClimbAwall climbawall.co.uk Cocoon bycocoon.com Cork Glass corkglass.ie Cowshed Interiors cowshedinteriors.com Cox & Cox coxandcox.co.uk CP Hart cphart.co.uk CPH Square cphsquare.dk Cream and Chrome creamandchrome.co.uk Cuckooland cuckooland.com Cult Furniture cultfurniture.com Curiousa & Curiousa curiousaandcuriousa.co.uk Curtains Made Simple curtainsmadesimple.co.uk Desenio desenio.co.uk Design Vintage designvintage.co.uk Designers Guild designersguild.com DFS dfs.co.uk Dinesen dinesen.com DIY Kitchens diy-kitchens.com Dowsing & Reynolds dowsingandreynolds.com Drew Pritchard drewpritchard.co.uk Duck Barn Interiors duckbarn.co.uk Dulux dulux.co.uk Dunelm dunelm.com Dunnes Stores dunnesstores.com Dunning & Everard dunningandeverard.com Duravit duravit.co.uk Dutch Home Fabrics dutchhomefabrics.com Dwell dwell.co.uk

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eBay ebay.co.uk EBK Huse ebk.dk edit58 edit58.com Eginstill Amsterdam eginstill.com Etsy etsy.com Farrow & Ball farrow-ball.com FDB Mobler fdbmobler.dk Ferm Living fermliving.com Fired Earth firedearth.com Freemans freemans.com Galleri Glas galleriglas.se Garden Trading gardentrading.co.uk Graham and Green grahamandgreen.co.uk Greer Beds greerbeds.co.uk Gunnel Sahlin Design at H&M Home hm.com Habitat habitat.co.uk Haus hauslondon.com Heal’s heals.co.uk Hide Rugs hiderugs.co.uk Holloways of Ludlow hollowaysofludlow.com Home Barn homebarnshop.co.uk Homelia homelia.com House of Fraser houseoffraser.co.uk Houseology houseology.com Howdens howdens.com I Am Nomad iamnomad.co.uk Ibiza Interiors ibizainteriors.com Ikea ikea.co.uk Illustrated Living illustratedliving.co.uk Indian Ocean indian-ocean.co.uk Industville industville.co.uk Interior Gifts interiorgifts.co.uk IQ Glass iqglass.co.uk Jane Clayton & Company janeclayton.co.uk Jeremy Penman Kitchens jeremypenmankitchens.business.site Jessica Harrison jessicaharrison.co.uk Jewson jewsonkitchens.co.uk John Lewis & Partners johnlewis.com Jysk jysk.co.uk Kalinko kalinko.com Kalon kalonstudios.de Kate Forman kateforman.co.uk L Interiors l-interiors.co.uk Lampsy lampsy.com Larusi larusi.com Laura Ashley lauraashley.com Little Greene littlegreene.com Loaf loaf.com London Bus Blinds & Signs londonbusblinds.com Louise Bradley louisebradley.co.uk Love Frankie lovefrankie.com Love the Sign lovethesign.com Love Your Home love-your-home.co.uk Luke Irwin lukeirwin.com Lush Designs lushlampshades.co.uk

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Maisons du Monde maisonsdumonde.com Majorelle Interiors majorelleinteriors.com Mandarin Stone mandarinstone.com Marrakech Design marrakechdesign.se Meridiani meridiani.it Michaelis Boyd michaelisboyd.com Minimodel Gallery minimodelgallery.com Motivo Casa motivocasa.co.uk Mustard Made mustardmade.co.uk Nationwide Bathrooms heritage.nationwidebathrooms.co.uk Neptune neptune.com Nest nest.co.uk Newbury Antiques Fair iacf.co.uk Nicholas Herbert nicholasherbert.com Nook London nooklondon.com Nordic Mood nordicmood.co.uk Not Only White notonlywhite.com Nunido nunido.co.uk Oka oka.com One World one.world Only Home onlyhome.co.uk Original BTC originalbtc.com Paint & Paper Library paintandpaperlibrary.com Pamono pamono.co.uk Pampa pampa.com.au Parker Howley & Co parkerhowleynco.co.uk Paul Case Furniture paulcase.co.uk Paul Treasure Paintings paultreasurepaintings.co.uk Perch & Parrow perchandparrow.com Pinnacle pinnaclehomeinteriors.co.uk Pooky pooky.com Pop & Scott popandscott.com Poppy Treffry poppytreffry.co.uk Pottery Barn potterybarn.com Prices Paving pricespaving.co.uk Primark primark.co.uk Primrose primrose.co.uk Pygmalion Interiors pygmalioninteriors.com RA Smart rasmart.co.uk Reclaimed Brick-Tile reclaimedbrick-tile.com Republic of Fritz Hansen fritzhansen.com Rifle Paper Co riflepaperco.com Rix Interiors instagram.com/rixinteriors Robeys robeys.co.uk Rockett St George rockettstgeorge.co.uk Rosalind Eastman rosalindeastman.com Rough Old Glass rougholdglass.co.uk Rural Design ruraldesign.co.uk Sally’s Rocking Horses sallysrockinghorses.com Saltbox Interiors saltboxinteriors.co.uk Screwfix screwfix.com

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Something Beginning With somethingbeginningwith.com Sophie Allport sophieallport.com Stovax stovax.com Sunday B Morning sundaybmorning.com Swoon swooneditions.com Tea and Kate teaandkate.co.uk Terrazzo Tiles terrazzo-tiles.co.uk The Animal Print Shop theanimalprintshop.com The British Blanket Company thebritishblanketcompany.com The Conran Shop conranshop.co.uk The Copper Works Newlyn thecopperworksnewlyn.com The Cotswold Casement Company cotswold-casements.co.uk The Cotswold Company cotswoldco.com The Cotton Bunting Company cottonbunting.co.uk The French Bedroom Company frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk The Lounge Co theloungeco.com The Modern bythemodern.com The Nieuw thenieuw.com The White Company thewhitecompany.com The Wood Flooring Shop thewoodflooringshop.com This Modern Life thismodernlife.co.uk Tile Giant tilegiant.co.uk Timothy Oulton timothyoulton.com TK Maxx tkmaxx.com Tolix Shop tolix.co.uk Tom Dixon tomdixon.net Tor Interiors torinteriors.com Turnbull & Thomas turnbullandthomas.co.uk Tyson London tyson.london Unto This Last untothislast.co.uk Vanil vanil.co.uk VF Verty Furniture vertyfurniture.co.uk Victorian Plumbing victorianplumbing.co.uk Vitra vitra.co.uk Wallpaperdirect wallpaperdirect.com Walls and Floors wallsandfloors.co.uk Watts of Westminster watts1874.co.uk Wayfair wayfair.co.uk Weaver Green weavergreen.com Wehlers wehlers.com Welbeck Tiles welbeck.com West Elm westelm.co.uk Woolroom thewoolroom.com Worn wornstore.com.au Yume yumecph.com Zoffany stylelibrary.com/zoffany

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Just for You

An advertisement feature bringing you the best value for those special purchases around your home.

To advertise, please call 0207 611 1061 or email sales@canopymedia.co.uk

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All companies listed are wholly independent. We recommend that you carry out your own checks before entering into any agreement. When making any purchases we would recommend that you use a credit card providing protection in the unlikely event of any issues. No part of this page maybe reproduced without the permission of Canopy Media.

Our most innovative support yet: the Casper Hybrid mattress

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Marketplace floor coverings

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25bh | i d e a s to s h a r e Guest rooms from ÂŁ430 a night, hotelesencia.com

Room Envy

T

his month we’ve gone for a sizzling hit of white-hot escapism, courtesy of Hotel Esencia, a boutique bolthole in the Quintana Roo region of Mexico.

Outside, the setting is spectacular: silver-white sand, the palest aquamarine sea, and a background canopy of verdant jungle. The challenge was to create interiors that complement such a paradisiacal landscape. The solution? A daring shade of laboratory white on the floors and walls, paired with ivory ceilings, lends a sense of airiness and keeps the room from looking dull, as can be the case with wood-heavy beach cabanas. Furniture was inspired by the mid-century collection of owner Kevin Wendle.

Crafted in mahogany by local artisans, its dark hue provides pleasing contrast and sits nicely with the custom textiles. Artistic 142 | 2 5 b h auG us t 2019

director Juan Carlos Gutierrez designed the swirling abstract rug, finished in pure wool and traditionally loom-woven and dyed in Oaxaca, while the riotously coloured bed runner took its cue from modernist optical art. The now ubiquitous hotel-suite freestanding tub is an always welcome feature, this one coming from British makers Victoria + Albert Baths (see the Barcelona 3 model for similar). The overall effect is one of contemporary seaside-cool, an idyllic antidote to the now somewhat trad turquoise-and-timber beach villa. Laid-back luxe is the way of life at Esencia; start your day with a yoga class and seasonal fruit plate, move on to a lunch of fish tacos and freshly prepared quesadillas by the sleek adults-only pool, and pop to the Mayaninspired spa for a purifying and tingly lime juice massage.

Feature Patrick Hamilton courtney

Each month we bring you a hotel space that intrigues, inspires and dazzles