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PLAN YOUR DREAM HOME L-SHAPES, GALLEYS, DINERS & ISLANDS: HOW TO DESIGN YOUR KITCHEN PICK THE BEST EXTENSION FOR YOUR PROPERTY BEAUTIFUL BATHS & BOOKCASES

Simple

STORAGE TIPS FOR A CLEAR, CALM SPACE

WARMING RECIPES FOR COSY SUPPERS

Life in the ❖ THATCHED COTTAGE RESTORATION ❖ ECLECTIC BARN CONVERSION ❖ VINTAGE COTSWOLD HIDEAWAY ❖ ANTIQUE-FILLED APARTMENT

THE HOME OF

modern country February 2021

INTERIORS & INSPIRATION 12 FEBRUARY Things that make us happy 17 DESIGN NEWS What’s new in interiors this month 76 GLOWING EMBERS Embrace vivid winter shades 81 A HOME IN HARMONY A refined and simple scheme to sooth the senses 88 • MAKE A HOUSE A HOME Keep your home organised 94 • KITCHEN IDEAS Configure your kitchen space 102 • JOIN THE BOOK CLUB Handsome shelving to swoon over 106 • ROOM ELEMENTS Clever materials for brilliant baths 110 HOME TECH Buy the right home air purifier 111 KITCHEN PROJECT A rich colour scheme and bespoke breakfast table are the stars here

18 COUNTRY HOMES

124 RENOVATION GUIDE Practical info on extensions

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18 • SWEDISH APARTMENT This couple uncovered original features and added vintage pieces to give their home character

128 • ON THE COVER

28 • OXFORDSHIRE COTTAGE A chance encounter led to the renovation of this charming thatched former village Post Office 40 • DUTCH WOODEN CABIN This rustic country home was passed down through the family, with a strong connection to nature 50 • OXFORDSHIRE COTTAGE The success of this Cotswolds conversion persuaded its new owner not to change anything PLUS GET-THE-LOOK IDEAS FOR EVERY HOME

68 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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GARDENS 128

FIRE & FROST Red and gold stems contrast beautifully against frosty snowdrops in this cottage garden

JUST FOR YOU

116

81

59

HOMES SURVEY Take our survey for your chance to win £100-worth of Amazon vouchers

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SUBSCRIBE T O D AY

SEASONAL FOOD 116

• WHOLESOME, HEARTY & HOME-GROWN Satisfying dishes for winter

123

76 • ON THE COVER

IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN Our latest pantry additions

LIFESTYLE 61 RURAL HOTSPOT A few reasons why we’d love to move to Whitby 63 • LOCAL HERO Jane Bowden and her mission to help protect Norfolk’s seals 68

75

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS Imogen Driver explains how she set up her children’s clothing business DESIGNER PROFILE Meet textile designer Maria Sigma

136 LIVE LIFE WELL Happy thoughts and ideas for fashion, eco, wellbeing and more 139 COUNTRY PASSION Tamsin Calidas shares her love of winter sea swimming 141 PLAN A TRIP TO… Osea island, off the coast of Essex 146 MY FAVOURITE VIEW For Cerys Matthews the sight of Mount Everest was unforgettable 6

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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EDITOR’S LETTER

T

PHOTOGRAPH (PORTRAIT) HOLLY STONE; (ST BRIDES) ALAMY MAKE-UP CARA MCDANIEL

here’s a new broom, dusting off the cobwebs feeling to February, which is why I’ve been on a mission to clear my kitchen surfaces and organise my filing (the cupboard under the stairs will have to wait). Of course, the end result of any clearout is more than a tidy space a home that’s arranged just as you want it

(calm, cluttered, or somewhere in between) is a home that makes you feel content and at ease.

If you’re looking for a little motivation, turn to our Everything in its Place feature on page 88.

With all the time we’ve spent within our own four walls recently, you may have decided that more drastic action is needed to help you fall in love with your home again. Whether it’s reconfiguring your kitchen (see page 94), planning an extension (page 124) or plotting a move to a rural hotspot (page 61), we’ve packed our pages with advice and inspiration.

Wishing you a home that’s filled with love and happiness.

Valentine’s Day vibes!

St Brides, where I was married 28 years ago

Andréa x

FILL IN OUR HOMES SURVEY AND YOU COULD WIN £100 OF AMAZON VOUCHERS. GO TO IDEALHOME.CO.UK/ COUNTRYHOMES SURVEY2021

I’m,,, feeling the love Self-gifting with a bag featuring native flora and fauna; it comes with wildflower seeds, too!

Bee Garden clutch, Will Bees Bespoke

My husband and I bought rings like this from a brilliant and sustainable jewellery brand to celebrate our anniversary.

Completedworks

My courtyard garden needs some tender loving care and this book is full of inspiration.

Kinfolk Garden: How to Live with Nature (Artisan) COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

11

Things that make us happy...

FEBRUARY

Looking outwards and upwards to the budding promise of spring.

Chawton double-width sideboard in Olive, £2,884, Neptune

12

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

C O U N T R Y D AY S

2

1

Venturing from fireside to fresh air in ever-fashionable knitwear and denim combos.

Cable cardigan in Green Ochre, £98, Celtic & Co

4 3

1 Giving verdant additions a leg-up in growth spurt heights.

Sydney plant stand, from £70, Anthropologie 2 Crisp, but exceptionally soft, table attire with a wonderfully whimsical feel. Ruffle Irish linen napkin in Olive, £24, Rebecca Udall 3 Recycled new nesting for feathery friends. Barn bird house, £18.95, Jolt 4 Lingering warmth with fizzy and fresh, spicy citrus scents. Wilful tonic candle, £65, 7 Over 7

6

5

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8 Serving up lots of love on Valentine’s Day… Julietta rattan dining table, £199; chair, £135; runner, £22.90; stoneware, from £6.30 a piece, all Bloomingville

5 Traditional block prints elevated with raspberry-coloured flower petals and emerald-hued foliage. Tullio cotton cushion cover, €45, Caravane 6 Adding characterful pattern underfoot with a contemporary heirloom. Katrina rug, £125, French Connection Home 7 Words that make the world of difference.

The stars aligned letterpress Valentine’s card, £3.75, Hunt & Gather 8 Organic shapes and matt textured finishes for the breakfast table. Savona ceramic mug, £8, Habitat

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

13

Beautiful layers of snuggly softness.

British birds special edition lambswool blankets in Robin, Woodpigeon, Kingfisher, Grey Wagtail, Blue Tit, £95 each, The British Blanket Company

10 9

11 12 9 A smart server for elevenses in the home office. Mono cotton rope tray, £35, Knotsy at Room 365 10 Embracing classic designs in petite proportions and new directions.

Type 75 mini table lamp in Black, £99, Anglepoise 11 Scandi style simplicity with a woven and slender iron frame contrast. Wicker bench, £395, Cox & Cox 12 The perfect partner in crime for gin and tonic prep. Mini square board, £17, Rosie Brewer at Reste

13

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16 13 A wilderness pamper journey with freedom to roam fragrances. Kapitel 12 eau de toilette, £45, Skandinavisk at Selfridges 14 Beautifully unique Moroccan tableware with a story to share. Tamegroute small bowls in Yellow, £15 each, We Are Nomads 15 Colourful flourishes and textural touches that last an eternity. Bunnytail dried flowers in Purple, £11.95, Graham and Green 16 Shapely handwoven, decorative additions. Buhera baskets, from £80 each, Hadeda 14

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Delighting in dreamy nights forever with stately proportions and time-celebrated craftsmanship.

Clifton four-poster, £1,550, Cornish Bed Company

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHS (CORNISH BED COMPANY) JOHN DAY PHOTOGRAPHY

15

C O U N T R Y D AY S

Things that make us happy...

ROMANCING THE SEASON ❝ WITH EARLY SUNSETS AND

BIGGER-THE-BETTER JUMPERS

❞

Adding a cute touch with bright sparks of handmade gorgeousness.

Dillie stoneware match striker, £18, Nordic House

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

15

A Staircase Renovation From Neville Johnson Can Really Make an Entrance

*Sale discount applies to orders placed between 10/12/20 and 01/03/21.

Minimum order value ÂŁ2,000 +VAT. Finance is subject to status, terms apply.

The Neville Johnson Sale* means renovating your staircase into an exquisite feature is much easier and less costly than you’d imagine. In just 1-2 days and with no building work, we will transform the heart of your home, and add value to your property with a stunning, handcrafted staircase. All in a style to suit you and your budget.

for our latest brochure

nevillejohnson.co.uk | 0161 873 8333

NEW & INTERESTING

DESIGN NEWS BrintonÕs debut rugs Heritage carpet manufacturer Brintons has rolled out its first rug collection, Agnella, inspired by the natural beauty of wool. Each rug is designed and made by skilled craftspeople using the latest in weaving technology.

Many of the designs leave the loom in undyed woolly glory to celebrate the raw material’s palette and authenticity. Diamond Aiko in Heather, from £163; Noble Altro in Light Grey (right), from £91.

Shop the full collection at brintons.co.uk.

DREAMY NEW BEDS One of our favourite indie companies, Graham and Green, has pulled back the duvet on two gorgeous new bed designs. Choose from the French-style Luna or the brass-studded Alora, both handcrafted from ash wood and lovingly upholstered in a sumptuous luxurious grey velvet or paredback natural linen.

Time to get cosy!

Luna king-size bed in Grey velvet, £995, Graham and Green.

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Tunes for homes with character!

Beloved British audio brand Roberts Radio has unveiled its first Bluetooth speaker, the Beacon, blending retro design with the latest tech for effortless wireless connection. From £149; available at RobertsRadio. com, John Lewis & Partners and Amazon.co.uk.

Curtains in Hollyhocks, £79m; sofa in Helena, £34m; wallpaper in Pinjara Trellis, £59 a roll; floral sofa cushion in Rose & Peony, £65m, all Sanderson at John Lewis & Partners

EXCLUSIVE SANDERSON AT JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS Sanderson is giving a sneak peak of its One Sixty anniversary collection at John Lewis & Partners.

Taking inspiration from fabrics hand-picked by Sanderson’s design experts, there are five new looks to explore: A Celebration of Colour; Romantic Rural; Reworked Retro; Contemporary Country and Crisp Country; see more online or in store.

One to watch: Samantha Rudd Samantha Rudd (the talented designer behind the Sam Wilson brand) has opened an interior lifestyle shop, At Home With The Rudds, in Broadway, the beautiful Cotswold hotspot.

Visit athomewiththerudds.com or pop by in person to take your pick from an eclectic mix of home accessories, antiques and original designs, like Sarah’s new Carousel printed linen, £55m.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

17

LIFE IN THE EAVES

Sam Nixon and her husband Grant Snowden have uncovered the original features of this period apartment and filled it with antiques to create a characterful home

Dining area Sam and Grant bought Wait,

by Anne Siems, online from a New York gallery. The artwork complements the raw timber textures throughout the home.

For similar paint, try School House White, Farrow & Ball

S W E D I S H A PA R T M E N T

Kitchen-diner Tiles and the large island delineate the kitchen space.

Rustic elements and more contemporary industrial touches balance the scheme.

Table, St-Paul Home. Brushed LIX chair, source at Sklum COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

19

Kitchen area The lack of upper cabinets is compensated for by shelves on castors, which have an informal and practical appearance. Vintage shoe trolleys, Metroretro. Smeg fridge, John Lewis & Partners.

Cube Grey porcelain floor tiles, Total Tiles, are similar

S W E D I S H A PA R T M E N T

A

three-month work contract is what originally brought Sam Nixon and her husband Grant Snowden to Malmö, Sweden’s third largest city. Almost 20 years later, the couple, along with their two daughters, are still settled there, having left their globetrotting life behind them.

‘We had travelled from Australia to South America, but we were living in Texas when we decided that we wanted to live in Europe for a while. Then Sam was offered a contract here in Malmö, so our coming here was mostly coincidental,’ says Grant.

The spacious apartment in an 1870s building in the city’s historic Gamla Väster district was a rare find. ‘We were incredibly lucky to get the opportunity to purchase this apartment, split across two floors. The attic was in really bad condition, but we saw it as a fun, challenging project,’ says Sam. ‘We thought the actual building was wonderful and it had a charming cosy patio, too.’ The property was originally two separate apartments and behind layers of poor 1980s updates, the pair noticed old beams, chimneys and exposed brick walls. After a nine-month renovation, they ended up with their dream home in the attic and later sold the apartment on the floor below.

Both Sam and Grant became so obsessed with vintage furniture that for a few years they sold the pieces they couldn’t fit into the apartment in a shop. ‘We are crazy about vintage, natural colours and materials like linen, zinc, wood and brick. I believe that if we are both passionate about an item – whether it is a piece of furniture, a painting or a lamp – then it will work perfectly with the rest of our things. That’s turned out to be true in most situations,’ says Sam. The kitchen, which was previously a bedroom, has been created from scratch. ‘I wanted to use a combination of materials that would give the impression it had been here for many years.

I love leaving the utensils and pots out. It evokes a warm countrykitchen feeling,’ says Sam. Tiles delineate the practical space of the kitchen, with the large central island the ideal place to prepare food. The lack of wall cabinets contributes to the sense of openness while allowing the natural character of the bricks to resonate with the old wooden beams. ‘We had to search for a long time before we were able to find someone who was able to raise the ceiling and expose the beams,’ she says.

‘Sam often rearranges our favourite possessions in different combinations to give each room a new and changing identity.

We have so many pieces of art and vintage furniture that we could never have them all on display at the same time. It can take ages working out the best place for each piece,’ says Grant.

The apartment has plenty of clever storage ideas, too. ‘Practicality is important. In Sweden, we spend so much time indoors that it’s essential for a home not to feel cluttered and to know where everything you need is. We’ve always wanted our home to feel tidy and well organised, even with all our favourite vintage finds and mementoes out on display,’ says Sam. ‘There’s always something going on with plenty of friends dropping by,’ adds Grant. ‘Creating a home with a warm, open and welcoming atmosphere was always the most important thing for us.’

AT HOM E WI T H Owners Sam Nixon, a computer programmer, and her husband Grant Snowden, a former corporate banker, along with their daughters Charlie, 14, and Nora, 10, plus cats Cinnamon, Rosie and Coco.

House A renovated three-bedroom apartment in a 19th-century building, located in the Gamla Väster district of Malmö, Sweden.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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S W E D I S H A PA R T M E N T

Living area Open shelves make a feature of the magazines with an off-centre mirror and plants bringing character to the arrangement. A ladder leads to a play area. Large doorways give the apartment a sense of openness and flow. Source antique leather club chairs, Vinterior.

Industrial Light 5 Shelf bookcase, Woods Furniture, is similar.

Pure white industrial pendant light, Elesi, would work here. The picture wall is made up of memories.

Nora’s bedroom A mosquito net brings a whimsical touch to this scheme where the bed is the star. Source mosquito net canopy, Manufactum. Buy similar angle lamp, Switch Lighting.

Find a comparable antique Swedish folk bed, Pamono

22

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Living area The seating arrangement places a strong emphasis on family connection. The covers of the sofa can be easily taken off and washed. Ghost 12 sofa, Gervasoni, available at Masoni Online. Source vintage 1930s mirror with bevelled edges, Vinterior

S W E D I S H A PA R T M E N T

Main bedroom Rich texture and aged materials create a cosy feel. The distressed paint of an antique cupboard pairs well with the rumpled imperfection of the bedding. Linen bedding, H&M Home. ‘Zettel’z 6’ light by Ingo Maurer, Lights.co.uk. Vintage Singer factory stool, Metroretro

Bathroom

FEATURE KATARINA MATSSON/HOUSE OF PICTURES STYLING HANS BLOMQUIST/ HOUSE OF PICTURES PHOTOGRAPHS ANDREA PAPINI/HOUSE OF PICTURES

A claw-foot bath and off-white tiles create a vintage feel. Source similar bath at Aston Matthews. Wall tiles, Mosa Global Collection. Floor tiles, Mosaic del Sur, Mosaic Factory.

Kensington basin and pedestal, Fired Earth. A sliding oak door chimes in with the exposed beams.

Taylor black metal triple mirror, Maisons du Monde, is similar. High level cistern loo, Twyford Bathrooms

24

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

ON OUR D O OR ST EP Visit… ‘A trip to Falsterbo and Skanör are a must, only half an hour from Malmö. Beautiful beaches, pretty beach huts and charming houses.’

Shop at… ‘Our favourite store in Malmö is Miloii (miloii.se), with a wonderful selection of Danish, Swedish and French clothes, as well as a small, but beautifully curated selection of homeware.’

Go for a meal at… ‘Malmö Saluhall has great restaurants, as well as a bakery, fishmongers, a butcher and a farm shop. Solde Kaffebar (solde.se) has the best coffee in Malmö, with beans roasted at their own roastery in the city.’

Main bedroom Sam left windows free from dressings to allow in as much light as possible. Linen bedding strikes a laid-back, restful note. Linen bedding from H&M Home. ‘Zettel’z 6’ light by Ingo Maurer available at Lights.co.uk. Source similar bedside table at Maisons du Monde. Source antique plan chest at 1stDibs or Vinterior.

GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by SAM’S KITCHEN Shine the light with a piece of British industrial history.

Coolicon the original 1933 in Sky Blue, £200, Loaf

Give floors a contemporary update with a striking geometric twist.

Cubist tiles in Grey, £235.20sq m, Bert & May

Wheel in vintage-meetsindustrial charm with this distressed-effect server.

Botania metal wheeled trolley in Green, £93.50, Maisons du Monde

Pour all the more with this minimalist, Nordic-inspired helper. £28.95, Monday

MODERN Country CLASSIC

Time flies with a tick-tock of mid-century, railway station nostalgia.

Luggage wall clock, £59.95, Newgate at Annabel James

Sam’s style tip...

BLEND INDUSTRIAL AND RUSTIC FARMHOUSE INFLUENCES FOR A RELAXED, LIVED-IN STYLE FULL OF WELCOMING CHARM 26

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Hang grab-andcook essentials within easy lemon squeezy reach.

Rack with six S-hooks in Black, £20.99, lb Laursen at Fine Nordic

Keep chilled goods fresh while revamping a fabulous 50s atmosphere.

Retro fridge 150 gold in Cream, £656.95, Create Ikohs

Study every species in detail in advance of foraging adventures!

Mushroom botanical vintage wall chart, from £3.77, WallBuddy at Etsy.

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

CH&I

Sleep easy with the UK’s most trusted bed brand

Discover solutions for every sleeper at silentnight.co.uk

Find us @silentnightbeds

I ST C ASS

The sensitive restoration of a former village post office has delivered a new life in the country for Bee Osborn

Exterior Bee has spent considerable time restoring the gardens surrounding the pretty thatched cottage. The pleached hornbeam trees from Burford Garden Company add an elegant screen to the garden in the summer months and in winter lend a sculptural appeal

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Living room The low-ceilinged entertaining space has a cosy cottage charm. Walls painted in Sheringham Beach by Fenwick & Tilbrook. Sofas, side tables and pouffes, all Studio Osborn. Mirror, Station Mill

B AT HOME WITH Owners Bee Osborn, an interior designer, lives here with her daughter Lara, 14.

Grown up daughters Tatiana and Hettie visit at weekends.

House A three-bedroom, North Cotswold stone cottage.

Formerly the village post office, it dates back to 1530, with an original barn structure at the back, built in 1700.

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

ee Osborn has carved out a successful career designing beautiful interiors with her award-winning, internationally acclaimed firm, Osborn Interiors. For her, home is a place in which you should feel nurtured and relaxed.

‘Life is hectic and it is important to create personal spaces that enable you to unwind,’ she says.

Located in the Cotswolds, Bee’s thatched stone cottage dates back to the 1530s. Combining classic detailing with a modern country aesthetic, the interior is a beautiful mix of traditional and contemporary: think a chalky palette, original stone walls, panelling, elegantly styled furniture and occasional dark tones, adding a subtle change of pace and drama.

‘I had been looking for an out-of-London rental in 2017 as my youngest daughter was starting school in the Cotswolds. We were living in a townhouse in Battersea and I had hoped to find a bolthole to be near to Lara during the week,’ says Bee. Bee knew the Cotswolds well but despite endless searching, had found nothing suitable or affordable to rent. On a final drive back to London, she stopped to buy a sandwich. ‘Next to the village shop, I spotted a for sale sign in the undergrowth and was immediately drawn to the cottage,’ says Bee. Within 10 minutes, an offer had been accepted and three weeks later the keys >

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

HAS A STORY AND A MEANING – ❝ EVERYTHING FOR ME, THAT’S WHAT MAKES A HOME ❞

Living room The inglenook fireplace with its wood burner creates a welcoming focal point. Wood burner, Clearview Stoves.

Trays, Studio Osborn.

Lanterns, similar at Daylesford. Cushions, all Studio Osborn

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

Kitchen The lofty space, clad in reclaimed wood, provides the perfect frame for the rustic Barn Sawn kitchen, designed by Studio Osborn. Quartz worktops, flooring and wall cladding, Studio Osborn. Range, Everhot. Stools, Neptune.

Island pendant lights, Pinch

Kitchen A collection of artisanal plates, glassware and cannisters have been sourced from Daylesford.

White bowl, Studio Osborn. Tap, Crosswater

Dining area The bespoke oak and resin table, designed by Bee, adds a sense of timeless craftsmanship and is offset by the handmade oversized light from Hadeda, both Studio Osborn. Steel doors, Cotswold Casements

were hers. ‘It reminded me of my childhood home and that resonated,’ she says. Fast forward three years and country life has taken hold – the cottage is now Bee’s main home and her Battersea design team has relocated to a charming three-storey townhouse in nearby Chipping Norton.

The original two-up two-down cottage was tired and in need of renovation, but benefited from a large stone barn at the back of the property where the Post Office delivery horses would have been kept. ‘I stood in the barn, with its leaking corrugated roof and imagined how it could connect to the cottage. I wanted to keep the integrity and authenticity of the original stone walls, yet bring the structure into the 21st century with large steel windows and doors,’ says Bee. The renovation began in earnest in March 2020. With lockdown, Bee and her girls lived in the cottage, with a makeshift kitchen and beds in the living room. Taking just six months to complete, the barn links seamlessly to the cottage via a series of steps down to a stylish bespoke kitchen and up to a family snug area, formerly the original kitchen. Clad in reclaimed wood from an old schoolhouse, the lofty proportions have a timeless beauty that juxtapose sympathetically with the original low beams. ‘The extension has such extraordinary proportions,‘ says Bee. ‘They add a contemporary >

View to snug Distressed distemper walls add a rustic ambience to the kitchen that leads up to the family snug. Built in sofas, upholstery and cushions, all Studio Osborn. Pouffe, The White Company COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

33

Living room The two reception rooms at the front of the cottage provide valuable entertaining space for the family. The juxtaposition of light with dark adds stylish contrast. Wall light, similar at John Lewis & Partners.

Flooring, Studio Osborn

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

I LIKE TO CREATE STATEMENT ART WALLS ❝ WITH COLLECTIONS OF MIRRORS, BASKETS AND HATS – INEXPENSIVE BUT IMPACTFUL ❞

Family room The original time-worn windowsill was built at the exact height for the Post Office horses to step up and have their saddle bags loaded with post. Wall colour, Sea Henge

by Fenwick & Tilbrook. Mirrors, similar at John Lewis & Partners.

Curtains, sofa, chair and cushions, all Studio Osborn

The dramatic, four metre high vaulted space has been whitewashed with Sheringham Beach by Fenwick & Tilbrook. Artwork above the fireplace, sourced by Art Untamed.

Throws, Zara and Helen Moore. Cushions, West Elm

ON OUR DOORSTEP… Visit…’The Burford Antique Centre (burfordantiquecentre.co.uk) located in the stunning Cotswold town of Burford. I adore walking up and down the pretty high street, dipping in and out of the antiques shops and abundant independent stores.’

Shop at… ‘The Oxford Brush Company (oxfordbrushcompany.com) in Burford. They supply artisanal, handcrafted brushes and brooms, which are both functional and beautiful; plus many other household goods.’

Go for a meal at...’The Bell (thebelllangford.com) in Langford is in a modern country setting and a firm favourite for a relaxed pub lunch.

Owned by locals, Peter Creed and Tom Noest, they combine classic British food with wood-fired dishes and great wines.’

36

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Main bedroom The mirrored back wall enables light to bounce around the space. Mirrored wall and headboard, both Studio Osborn.

Lamp, Loaf. Throw, The White Company

elegance and it has become a wonderful space in which to entertain family and friends.’

As part of the renovation, a new downstairs boot room was created that adjoins a utility and shower room via a sliding barn door. Upstairs, it has enabled an en-suite bathroom to link to the main bedroom. Both clad in reclaimed wood, the modern-rustic main suite has added a touch of boutique hotel-style glamour. Storage has been carefully planned and every nook has been used with bespoke cabinetry, furniture and shelving.

Throughout, Bee’s love of art, symmetry and statement collections highlight her passion. ‘Everything has a story and meaning – for me that makes a home,’ says Bee. Despite Bee’s high-profile reputation, her self-funded success is down to hard work and a need to support her family. With a working career that began as a secretary, Bee began renovating houses in her 20s, with a 100 per cent mortgage on a derelict building in Tooting. This was the start of repeated projects and 15 years ago, with her third child having just turned one, she decided to retrain formally as an interior designer with Inchbald School of Design. The rest is history. ‘I believe in dreaming big. If you have both the need and passion, it can lead to great things.’

To find out more visit studio-osborn.com or Instagram @osborninteriors

FEATURE ALI HEATH PHOTOGRAPHS BRENT DARBY

Guest bedroom

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

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Main en-suite Reclaimed wood cladding adds a Scandinavian feel to the luxurious space.

The stainless steel bath was bought second-hand, but can be bought from BC Designs. Tapware, Crosswater. Petrified oak stool, Studio Osborn. Wall lights, Porta Romana

GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by BEE’S BEDROOM CH&I

MODERN Country CLASSIC Add a tactile touch of luxe with a subtle metallic sheen.

Essentials cable knit cushion in Grey/Silver, £35, Amara Opt for airy elegance with a glass and natural shade combination.

Gloucester table lamp, £38, Next Home

Warm the atmosphere while providing a soft pathway underfoot.

Rainbow wool carpet in White, £253, Linie Design at Nordic Nest

Waft a stress-busting breeze of fruity notes and zesty undertones.

Lime, basil and mandarin scented candle, from £20, Roots

Contemporary grains translate into mesmerising graphic patterning on this facade.

Norrebro bedside table, £199, Swoon

Bee’s style tip...

CREATE A BEAUTIFUL YET COMFORT-BOOSTING FOCAL POINT WITH A TAILORED, EXAGGERATED HEADBOARD UPHOLSTERED IN A SOFTTO-TOUCH, EFFORTLESS NEUTRAL. 38

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Drift-off in a waffled web of Italian hotelinspired chic.

Portofino bed linen in White, from £16.20, Dusk

Wake up the decorative details with a stem of pretty petals.

Frosty giant dandelion, £5.99, Sophie Allport

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Channel Scandi style with this distressed and faded design.

Wood panelling wallpaper, £19.99, Albany at Wallpaper Direct

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RH SODY NB U Timeworn accessories, grainy woods and natural materials create a unique ambience in Anneke Herbers’ atmospheric home

Living room Dark coloured chalk paint walls evoke a moodyhued backdrop. A striking statue and artwork draws the eye. For similar floor lamp, try eBay. Tub chair, Wayfair has similar

DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

Living room Linen fabrics, raw wood furniture and woven baskets add textural interest. Sofa, coffee table and accessories, Herbers Lifestyle. Similar global homeware can be sourced from India Jane COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

41

DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

Kitchen-diner Anneke reused old kitchen cabinets in the new space.

Other items were sourced from reclamation yards, local markets and brocante stores, many of them in Bruges.

For similar accessories and units, try The Packhouse, Lassco and Home Barn

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Dining area Anneke has created an eye-catching scheme with dramatic pendant lights positioned above the simple wooden table and chairs. Chairs, Aura Peeperkorn; table and lighting, all Herbers Lifestyle

F

or Anneke Herbers, it was a case of keeping it in the family when it came to the country house she now lives in – it originally belonged to her parents. ‘At first the house was a base for my father and my daughter Marjon to keep and breed horses in the paddocks and stables at the rear of the property,’ she explains. Then in 2000, as her father grew older, he invited Marjon to take over the house, so she could continue working with the horses. Eventually Anneke and her late husband Gerhard also moved in to help and be near the family.

Moving into the house helped Anneke establish her interior style. ’The décor was very different in those days to what it is now,’ she explains. The exterior of the property has a rustic, cabin-like feel about it, yet inside it the walls were decorated with old-fashioned plaster and there were lots of inherited pieces that were tricky to work with. Anneke went back to basics and started afresh, while being mindful of how her parents had lived and used their home.

‘Key to my look is my love of country style,’ says Anneke. ‘I‘m drawn to down-to-earth and unassuming pieces.’ The furniture and accessories she has carefully curated sit harmoniously together in the cabin, set against glorious views of the pastures and paddocks beyond. The look feels authentic to the surroundings, >

AT HOME WITH Owner Anneke Herbers, who runs homeware shop Herbers Lifestyle (herberslifestyle.nl/en), moved into her parents’ family home in 2008.

House Two-bedroom cabin.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

43

Kitchen Anneke kept the original floor and added handmade oak units.

Similar splashback tiles, Topps Tiles. For similar wall paint, try Graphite, Annie Sloan

and the connection with nature can be seen in Anneke’s choice of materials used across the walls, floors and furnishings. The house radiates texture, from chalky tactile paints and hand-plastered finishes on the walls, to warm grainy woods, etched marble details and soft, scrunched linens.

A passion for Belgian interiors also plays a part in the look Anneke has created for her home. ‘I’ve always been an admirer of this classic style,’ she explains.

‘It is a blend of craftsmanship, handsome, oversized furniture and an honest handmade quality.’ The style throughout is both refined and elegant, but effortlessly relaxing and timeworn in equal measures.

Anneke was keen to design sociable yet cosy spaces for friends and family to gather in, and this led to an open-plan design with a carefully co-ordinated, cohesive feel. The same colours and textures are used throughout to help the flow, with different zones divided up by specially chosen furniture. In keeping with Anneke’s style, most are large in scale and instantly delineate the main function of each area.

She has chosen to decorate using a natural palette that‘s inspired by the surrounding landscape and the inherent colours of the materials used to build her home – clay, sun-baked reeds and hewn timber beams.

‘I used the odd tonal trace, like the dark spruce velvet > 44

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

Entertaining space Anneke converted an old garage into a party and entertaining space.

Table and seating, Herbers Lifestyle.

Sheepskins, for similar try Nordic House.

DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

I LOVE BELGIAN STYLE. ❝ IT’S CLASSIC, ELEGANT YET BEAUTIFULLY SIMPLE, TOO❞

Main bedroom The Scandinavian-style scheme incorporates raw woods and a white palette.

For similar bedlinen, try LinenMe. For a similar lamp, try Oka. For similar furniture, Homebarn has a good selection

Washroom The Moroccan tadelakt plaster finish on the lower half of the walls was done

by Anneke. A counter-top basin carved from stone was bought at a brocante store. Wall paint, for similar try Old White, Farrow & Ball. Waffle towel, Nordic House, is comparable

Hallway

FEATURE AND STYLING SARA BIRD/THE CONTENTED NEST PHOTOGRAPHS DAN DUCHARS/THE CONTENTED NEST

Anneke removed the stain and paint from the staircase herself, and kept the original floor tiles. For a similar console, try The Packhouse.

Wall paint, for similar try Chicago Grey, Annie Sloan

and a plaster pink linen fabric on the two living room sofas,’ she says. ’And I love the mossy greenery of understated arrangements of seasonal flowers and foliage, which I’ve placed in pots and planters.’

There is low-key pattern – seen in embroidery details, tiles and antique carving – which evokes a calm and serene feel. Lamps and lighting are kept to a minimum.

And, as is frequently seen in North European homes, candles are dotted throughout the space, lit to add ambience, homeliness and warmth as and when needed.

This home features many unique touches and details, from the mixing of chalk paint colours to the updated and upcycled finds, including a beautiful wrought-iron gate that was personalised by Gerhard.

The house is also filled with artisan-crafted, handmade and imperfect pieces, each with its own story behind how it was made, recycled and created.

‘I hope my home is a successful marriage of authentic styling, natural character and of-the-landscape colours,’ says Anneke. ‘More than just welcoming, I wanted to make a warm and open-hearted home that will age and mellow with grace and poise.’

Taken from Home for the Soul, by Sara Bird and Dan Duchars of the Contented Nest, £19.99, Ryland Peters & Small

ON MY DOORSTEP Visit… ‘The stunning fortress of Bourtange (bourtange.nl).

A village and landscaped gardens are contained within its star-shaped setting. It’s beautiful all year round, but its topiary is especially impressive in the winter months.’

Shop at… ‘Folkingestraat in Groningen. Proclaimed as the best shopping street in the Netherlands, it features specialist shops including vintage wares, gifts and souvenirs.’

Go for a meal at…

‘Hotel Boschhuis (hotelboschhuis.nl), known locally for its delicious seasonal Dutch menus.’

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

47

GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by ANNEKE’S DINING ROOM Simplicity and elegance blend to dazzle effortlessly from above.

Beth chandelier, £99, M&S

This extra-generous paddle is perfect for sharing platters, mezze and canapés.

Lynton large wooden serving board, £67.75, OnlyHome.co.uk

Fill a timelessly classic silhouette with voluminous textures.

Ribbed glass vase in Grey with preserved fluffy reed grass bouquet, £108.99, Dowsing & Reynolds

Choose a soft black for moody moments.

Chalk paint in Graphite, £21.95 for 1ltr, Annie Sloan

CH&I

Wind up the vintage style to dining or bar table heights!

Adjustable height teak dining table, £1,845, Smithers of Stamford

Give bites or objets a decorative stage.

Two-tier appetiser serving dome, £39.99, Artesà at Kitchen Craft

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

AnnekeÕs style tip...

BROODING SHADES CONTRAST WITH EXPOSED FINISHES ON WALLS, UNITED BY A RUSTIC CEILING FOR A RAW AND HONEST AESTHETIC

Drape this softie over a rustic bench for hunker-down appeal.

Auckland luxury faux sheepskin, from £54.99, Asiatic at Rugs Direct

Group differing designs and heights to cast a dramatic glow.

Lotus candle holder, £70, Oka

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

MODERN Country CLASSIC

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Living room Ann has complemented the honey-coloured exposed Cotswold stone walls with the cosy tones of an antique walnut leather sofa and a vintage wooden coffee table. Coffee table, Peppermill Interiors. Sofa and chair, PR Home

VIN

G VIB

Ann Jarvis wanted to buy and renovate a country cottage as a family retreat... but that was before she fell for the existing design of this Cotswold conversion

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

Hallway This practical raw wood cupboard is used for storing household essentials, as well as a tumble dryer

Exterior Ann was surprised to fall for a cottage so different from her usual style

W AT HOME WITH Owners Ann Jarvis, a retired interior decorator, and her husband, Mick, a retired oil executive, live here.

They have three grown-up children and bought the house in 2019.

House A two-bedroom, single-storey cottage, originally a stable, parts of which date back to the 1800s.

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

hen Ann Jarvis decided to look for a weekend retreat in the country for herself and her family, she had definite ideas in mind. ‘I was looking for somewhere I could decorate myself and where I could recycle some of the excess furniture we seemed to have accumulated in our numerous moves,’ she says.

Thanks to the demands of her husband Mick’s job, the couple had spent several years living in various American states before finally settling in Berkshire.

Their search for a second home took them to the gentle hills and honey-stone villages of the Cotswolds, where they pounced on a small stable conversion, called The Skirret (which, depending on your sources, is either the name of an obscure vegetable or an archaic building tool). ‘It was detached and in a super location near Stow-on-the-Wold,’ says Ann. ‘It had also been beautifully transformed by its previous owner.

Although I didn’t intend to buy an “up and running” house, The Skirret was too good to pass up. And as Mick hates decorating mess, he was delighted that there was virtually nothing to do!’

Ann had once worked under the tutelage of ‘Paint Magic’ guru, the late Jocasta Innes, and had developed her own interiors style, which she describes as ‘chintzy‘.

So to buy into a style that’s rustic/vintage, with exposed stone walls, industrial furnishings and muted colours, >

THE PREVIOUS OWNER DID A GREAT JOB TRANSFORMING ❝ THE COTTAGE. THE PAINT COLOURS ARE RICH AND DEEP, AND HE EVEN COMMISSIONED BEAUTIFUL ROMAN BLINDS❞

Living room A restful green feature wall injects colour and ties in with the blind fabric.

The wood-burning stove provides a warming focal point. Wall colour, Harley Green by Little Greene.

Blind fabric, A Leaf Study Linen by John Derian for Designers Guild

Kitchen Reclaimed wood creates a rustic backdrop and tones beautifully with the island unit and cooker hood and, alongside industrial storage and lighting, emphasises the vintage look. Bespoke wall by Nick Hartley at Interior Logistics

could have been quite a culture shock. ‘It wouldn’t have occurred to me to decorate like this,’ Ann agrees, pointing out the reclaimed timber on the kitchen walls and the antique items placed throughout the property.

‘And how long would it have taken for me to accumulate all this?’ she asks, pointing to shelves laden with ancient tins, teapots and other memorabilia.

The collector of all these items, and the originator of the striking décor, is The Skirret’s previous owner, interior designer Paul Hervey of PHI Concepts. ‘I bought the house for my family at weekends,’ he says. ‘It had been used as a grain store and more recently as a farm shop.’ His upgrades included repairs to the roof and Velux windows, a replacement kitchen and shower room, new flooring and total redecoration. ‘It was a sweet looking building that needed to feel loved again,’ he says.

The standout features of the house for Paul were the beautiful stone walls in the living room that inspired him to create a ‘rustic bolthole using moody, mellow paint shades’. When paint specialists Little Greene launched a new palette of old, matt greens, he was delighted ‘because I knew that the living room, with all its stone, could take a strong colour.’ As a result, instead of the usual whitewashed walls you would expect of a country cottage, the décor is understated, with pigment-rich greys and greens > 54

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

Kitchen Continuing the industrialstyle theme, a striking metal pendant light hangs over the island. Find similar at Garden Trading

Corridor The rooms are all linked by a long corridor with the entrance hall on the left, half way down

INTENDED TO BUY AN “UP AND RUNNING” HOUSE, ❝ I HADN’T BUT THE SKIRRET WAS JUST TOO GOOD TO PASS UP ❞

Kitchen Doubling as a bijou diner, the space has an island unit that also works perfectly as a table for two. Kitchen units, the Fairford range

by Howdens. Metal and mango wood kitchen island, Melchior from Maisons du Monde.

Stools, Cult Furniture

O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

Main bedroom

ON OUR DOORSTEP...

Visit … ‘Snowshill Manor (nationaltrust.org.uk) to see the eclectic collection of ephemera belonging to the late Charles Wade, architect and artist. The Arts and Crafts courtyard gardens are beautiful too.’

Shop at … ‘Burford Garden Company (burford.co.uk) is a destination store for plants, home décor and food. You usually find something you didn’t know you needed. Last year I bought an apple picker that works brilliantly.’

Go for a meal at… ‘The Feathered Nest (thefeatherednestinn. co.uk), which is great for special occasions. The views are stunning.

We also love The Milton Hare (themiltonhare.co.uk), which is excellent for fish dishes.’

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

predominating and ceramic wood-effect tiles making a strong statement in the bathroom.

Some of the most intriguing aspects of the cottage are the accessories that Paul has managed to unearth and that bring what he calls a ‘vintage extravaganza’ to the rooms. On the wall behind the wood burner in the living room, for instance, hangs a striking shallow basket traditionally used for collecting apples from the orchard. A pair of distressed white painted dovecotes are reflected in the mirror. A black vintage typewriter complete with ink ribbon sits on the coffee table, as if to inspire a would-be novelist. ‘I like to see detailing in a room,’ he explains, ‘and always aim for a homely feeling. I visit lots of antiques shops in my work where dealers know me and keep back anything interesting for me. When I see something I like, I will buy it because I never know when I might see it again. It means I always have plenty of things to play with!’

‘Paul did a great job transforming the cottage before I bought it,’ says Ann. ‘The paint colours are rich and deep and he even commissioned the beautifully-made Roman blinds. Basically I was made redundant with no curtain-making or decorating to do. The cottage is perfect and, as the work on it has been done, we have downloaded a Cotswold Walk app and now have time to explore more of this gorgeous part of the world.’

To rent The Skirret, visit boutique-retreats.co.uk

FEATURE PAT GARRATT PHOTOGRAPHS TIM IMRIE

A Velux window spills light into the space, which has been designed around botanical and equine themes. Horse poster, PHI Concepts. Throws, Designers Guild

Bathroom An antique cupboard has been upcycled as a pretty washstand. Cupboard, Goose Home and Garden

Bathroom Distressed black floor tiles and ceramic wood-effect wall tiles add drama. Basin and similar shower, Victorian Plumbing. Mercia reclaimed wood effect tiles, Style Ideas Direct, are a match

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING INTERESTING TO CATCH THE ❝EYE. I OFTEN THINK, ‘OH, I DIDN’T NOTICE THAT BEFORE’ ❞

Guest bedroom A simple metal bed is softened with a selection of cushions and cosy throws.

Iron bed, Victorian Dreams.

Cushions from a selection at Designers Guild

GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by ANN’S LIVING ROOM Botanical illustrations make charming soft furnishings.

A Leaf Study linen, £79m, John Derian at Designers Guild s g. r h

Neutral designs take on a textural, modern edge.

Grade rug, from, £1,209, Ligne Pure at Heal’s

using reclaimed rustic character xture galore. offee table on Gas & Air Studios ighstreet.com

Bauhaus meets mid-century on this generously padded, strikingly colourful design.

Retrostar classic line chair, £280, Sternzeit at Bombinate

AnnÕs style tip...

This deep green-blue features in the library of Wimpole Hall.

Harley Green intelligent matt emulsion, £51.50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene

CH&I

MODERN Country CLASSIC

INCORPORATE REJUVENATING TONAL GREENS THROUGHOUT YOUR SCHEME FOR A FEELING OF BEING CONNECTED TO NATURE 58

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Create a cosy, snug-bug atmosphere with exceptionally clean burning.

Bembridge wood burning stove, from £1,279, Charnwood

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Display everlasting beautiful blooms.

Peony artificial country bouquet in vase, £135, John Lewis & Partners

& INTERIORS

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Tell us what you think of the homes in our magazine and you could win £100-worth of Amazon vouchers

We know how much you like to browse the houses we feature in Country Homes & Interiors, but to be sure we’re featuring homes you really love to look at, we’re asking you to fill in a short online survey – and you’ll be entered into a prize draw to win £100-worth of Amazon vouchers when you do.

Tell us more about the types of property you want to see, the design styles that inspire you and the rooms and project ideas you’d like to see more of.

Go online to fill in the survey now at idealhome.co.uk/countryhomessurvey2021 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

59

RURAL HOTSPOT

There’s something magical about this little seaside town

LET’S MOVE TO

Whitby

A WINDSWEPT OUTPOST BRIMMING WITH CHARACTER AND WILD COASTAL WALKS

FEATURE SOPHIE GALE PHOTOGRAPHS PAUL RAYBOULD/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, IAN THRAVES/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, BRIDGFORDS ESTATE AGENTS

W

hitby is pretty. This unspoilt former herring fishing village at the mouth of the River Esk has redroofed cottages to the east, Georgian spa architecture to the west, and a smartly painted 75ft swing bridge connecting the two.

There are lighthouses, lamp posts and bobbing boats, surrounded by the wild North York Moors National Park on three sides, while the North Sea is lapping – or more often crashing – at the harbour walls. But there is also an intriguingly darker seam to explore – quite literally, in the form of jet stone, formed from the fossilised remains of the monkey puzzle tree and mined from the cliffs here. Plus, Whitby is where Bram Stoker set his Gothic novel Dracula.

IN THE ESTATE AGENT’S WINDOW In Whitby, even the property market has its quirks. As estate agent Lindsey Shaw explains: ‘Due to the higgledy-piggledy nature of the cottages in the old town, there is often a “flying freehold” situation – a bedroom in one abode might be directly above the sitting room of another.’ This can cause problems with mortgage lenders unused to that. ‘So you’ll need an agent with good local insight!’ she says. Prices range from £500,000 for a three-bed property

in West Cliff, to £310,000 for a new-build in Bagdale or cheaper terraces in Fishburn.

BUTCHERS, FISHMONGERS & ART With seafood in good supply, it’s no surprise there are excellent wet fish shops, with fresh crab and lobster by the bucket load, and top notch fish and chips, too – Magpie is highly rated by Rick Stein, though locals love Mister Chips. To feed your soul, there are galleries galore.

Jet jewellery shops are also prolific.

COUNTRY LIFE & CULTURE The Edwardian Pannett Park Museum houses curios ranging from a huge fossilised ichthyosaurus to tiny jet carvings – it’s a ‘superb place for a rainy day,’ says one local. The ruins of Whitby Abbey are a wonderfully

atmospheric spot – and predictably popular with Stoker fans, who arrive in their thousands for the town’s Goth Weekend festival in November.

SCHOOLS There are no less than five primaries to serve the 13,000odd population. St Hilda’s, Stakesby Community, West Cliff, Airy Hill and East Whitby Community are all ‘good’. So too is the secondary and sixth form Caedmon College.

GET AROUND A secluded setting is part of Whitby’s charm, yet it’s only half an hour to Scarborough or an hour to York.

IN THE AREA For surfing, head to small sandy beach Sandsend. Or amble the Cinder Track, a 21-mile disused railway route, stopping at the Ravenscar Tearooms.

Dream homes in Whitby

TOP TIP

MOOR PLEASE

VALLEY VIEWS

In Whitby’s sought-after West Cliff is this spacious one-bedroom apartment in a Victorian terrace. There are original features and views to the sea for £139,950.

Dating back to the 17th century, this three-bed stone farmhouse, known as the Hermitage, has views across moorland.

Offers over £525,000.

This contemporary threebed property is set in an elevated position in Briggswath. Renewable tech and energy efficiencies abound for £565,000.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

61

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Seal rescue; Jane Bowden (left) and fellow warden Tony Chapman; an adult grey seal with netting around its neck

LOCAL HERO

❝It’s hard not to

melt at the sight of a seal pup

❝

FEATURE SOPHIE GALE PHOTOGRAPHS DAMIEN STABLER, GEOFF SMITH

Jane Bowden braves all weathers on Norfolk’s beaches to help protect one of the UK’s largest seal colonies Every winter, from November to February, Horsey and Winterton beaches in Norfolk become crowded with seals, who come ashore to give birth, feed and fatten up their pups. It has to be one of the most extraordinary natural phenomenons on earth, and it happens right here in the UK. It’s not unusual to see four or five thousand packed onto the two beaches, attracted by seas rich in sand eels. I have worked as a volunteer warden for charity Friends of Horsey Seals for four years and I am lucky enough to have seen this remarkable sight many times, and it never fails to utterly delight me.

For 25 years I worked as a radio and TV producer for the BBC, including a stint as a war correspondent. On retirement in 2005, I moved to Florida with my husband, a helicopter pilot, where I volunteered to conserve sea turtles.

When we returned to the UK, it was a joy to discover we were not far from another of nature’s wonders – one of the UK’s largest seal colonies. I

jumped at the chance to join the Friends and help the seals thrive.

With their big eyes and soft white fur, pups are so endearing. But despite the winning looks, these are far from cuddly toys; they are wild creatures. They will defend themselves from perceived predators, from dogs to humans. More than that, if people get too close, frightened mothers often flee into the sea, abandoning pups. It’s a dreadful scene when a lone seal approaches any mother it can in the hope of milk – only to be rejected and attacked. We do all we can to prevent this happening.

Every one of these pups is precious but only 50 per cent survive more than one year. With up to 130,000 visitors to the two beaches every year, us wardens – there are 350 of us in total – have our work cut out. A major part of our role is helping everyone understand why we need to leave the animals be. But even at a safe distance, the seals provide an addictive spectacle – I always say it is like watching a soap opera. Sometimes visitors leave me

their email addresses wanting to know how little dramas play out – will a pup find its mum again; will a rescued animal survive?

When an animal is in dire need of help, our RSPCA-trained rescue teams step in, and wardens like me add an extra pair of hands when needed. One rescue I helped with was a seal with a net stuck round its neck and rear flipper. We took it to the RSPCA hospital near Fakenham where a vet removed this and discovered a deep wound where it had tightened as it grew. We carried out about 150 similar rescues last year.

Some days can be upsetting – I have never forgotten the time we lost three pups in one day. But there were about 400 seals when the charity began its work in 2011 and by 2019 there were 2,300 pups alone, and it feels magical to play a part in that. As a former war reporter, some small part of me always has a sense of wanting to defend what is right, and this is well worth fighting for.

To find out more, visit friendsofhorseyseals.co.uk COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

63

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MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

❝We make clothes that remind us of our childhood ❞ DESIGNER AND OWNER IMOGEN DRIVER

ÔT

he idea for our childrenswear business, Little Cotton Clothes, started out as a casual conversation with my sister, Leonie, four years ago,’ recalls Imogen Driver.

‘We were sitting on our mum’s sofa chatting about the lack of lovely, simple children’s clothing available. Neither of us felt taken with what was readily on the market, which we thought was either too “trendy” and throwaway, or terribly expensive.’ The pair found themselves reminiscing about dresses their mother had made for them and their other two sisters as children, and the sweet clothes worn by storybook characters such as Milly-Molly-Mandy and Christopher Robin.

Despite the nostalgic appeal, however, the sisters also recognised that clothes needed to be practical, too. ‘We have five children between us, so we know all about the need to splash in puddles, climb trees and enjoy a little rough and tumble without worrying,’ laughs Imogen. ‘We began to wonder if it might be possible to create a range of affordable clothes in natural fabrics that would reflect childhood in a more traditional way, and would be of

68

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

such good quality that they could be kept and passed on for many years.

‘We really didn’t expect the idea to come to much at all,’ she admits modestly, ‘so we invested only a small sum each to start with.’

Imogen’s career background, however, stood her in great stead. ‘I was a fashion and homeware buyer for major companies for many years, so I have a solid knowledge of the retail business,’ she explains. ‘And while my sister’s working background is very different to mine (Leonie was previously a stonemason and quantity surveyor), her creative instincts, eye for detail and practical skills have proved invaluable.’

Despite living miles apart – Imogen is based in Hampton in London and Leonie’s home is in Worcestershire, where they both grew up – the pair worked closely together to imagine their very first clothing range. ‘We had limited dressmaking experience,’ says Imogen. ‘We drew the basic designs of just six items, made up a pattern for each and sent them to a contact that we had found online – they then graded them to different sizes for us.’

Next came the process of finding manufacturers who could produce the items. ‘Through my >

Imogen works from her light and airy studio at home in Hampton, while her sister Leonie is based in Worcestershire.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

69

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

What we love most...

CUSTOMERS TELL US OUR CLOTHES ARE PASSED ON ❝ AND LOVED ALL OVER AGAIN, LONG AFTER THE ORIGINAL WEARER HAS GROWN TOO BIG FOR THEM! ❞ previous work, I was lucky enough to already have some fantastic contacts in India – people who were able to recommend factories with solid, ethical working practices,’ Imogen explains. ‘They were kind enough to give us a chance by making the tiny numbers of items that we started out ordering. We have continued to build fantastic working relationships with them over the last few years.’

Little Cotton Clothes’ first collection was made using fabrics the sisters sourced themselves and was deliberately small – just 15 items per size for each piece. ‘It was so exciting when the first batch arrived and we saw our

Leonie (left) and Imogen’s business is a family-focused affair

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

little designs had become a reality,’ says Imogen.

‘Then all we had to do was sell them!’

Initially, the brand launched online and relied on Instagram to speak directly to customers.

‘It was all very low-key: we combined professional imagery with photographs we took ourselves,’ says Imogen. ‘To our amazement, our audience grew. I think the simplicity and innocence of the images really appealed, and exactly conveyed what we were all about.

Before long, stockists from the UK and further afield were approaching us, and we now have 70 stockists around the world.’

All this meant, of course, that business had to start moving up a gear – growing the collection while ensuring the business was as streamlined, cost-effective and efficient as possible. ‘We now work with a handful of designers to help us create the florals we are known for,’ explains Imogen. ‘The fabrics are specified by us and sourced by our chosen suppliers, then Leonie works up a technical pack – the essential information our factory needs to correctly produce our clothing.’

Despite the company’s success, it remains very much a family-focused affair. ‘I work from a little studio in the garden every day, so I’m around for my two girls. And Leonie, who is in charge of everything from quality control to overseeing the sample process and managing the warehouse, works with our mum to pack up all the items for despatch.’

These days, the enterprise has a loyal – and sometimes royal – following. ‘A little while ago, we received an order from Kensington Palace for a dress for Princess Charlotte; we just couldn’t believe it,’ reveals Imogen. ‘Then as soon as she appeared wearing it in the press, we were inundated with orders and the design sold out almost immediately!’

Little Cotton Clothes has come a long way from that casual sisterly chat. ‘But our approach is the same,’ says Imogen. ‘We want beautiful, practical clothes that are cherished and passed to other children, or even through generations.’ littlecottonclothes.com

Imogen checks every item in the collection carefully.

Blouse, Womenswear collection, £60

Little Cotton Clothes’ charm is reminiscent of another age.

Dorcas velvet pinafore, £45; Sidonie sailor blouse, £40; tights, £12

Imogen’s garden studio makes it easier to separate work from busy family life

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

71

ON OUR DOORSTEP… Visit… ‘Kew Gardens (kew.org).

Make sure you visit the Marianne North Gallery to discover an amazing story of a brave Victorian woman who travelled solo around the world painting.’

Shop at… ‘Sunbury Antiques Market for vintage and antique treasures (sunburyantiques.com).

I rarely buy anything new and would much prefer to give something old and pre-loved a new home.’

Go for a meal at…

Bushy Park is an excellent destination for a winter walk 72

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FEATURE SHARON PARSONS PHOTOGRAPHS CAROLINE JONES, SOPHIE BARWOOD, ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

‘The King’s Head Teddington (kingsheadteddington.com) is a lovely, cosy gastropub with an open kitchen and seriously good food – an especial treat after a winter walk around Bushy Park.’

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

HOW TO ESTABLISH A SMALL FASHION BUSINESS MAKE YOUR COMPANY STAND OUT FROM THE REST

Imogen Driver and her sister Leonie Taibi have seen Little Cotton Clothes grow steadily since it was founded in 2016. They explain their approach…

BELIEVE IN YOUR PRODUCT ‘We only make clothes we genuinely love,’ says Leonie. ‘Otherwise it’s hard to keep enthusiasm and focus – and you need that in good times and bad. If you love what you do, that authenticity shines through, and that in turn inspires trust and confidence from your customers.’

DO YOUR RESEARCH Finding the best manufacturers and suppliers and building strong, trusted relationships is key to success. ‘If you want your product made close to home, organisations such as Made in Britain (madeinbritain. org) are really helpful,’ says Imogen.

‘Otherwise you may need to secure a buying agent to find the best factories overseas and to guide the production of your items. They will essentially be an extension of your team and are a link to the factory. Obviously, recommendations are ideal, but do your research carefully to ensure they

– and the manufacturers – fit with your principles, ethics and requirements.’

TELL THE STORY Everything from the visuals and style, to the nuances of tone and website design, underpin the message of your brand, so it’s important to get it right. ‘For instance, photographer Sophie Barwood, who took the pictures at my wedding, was the obvious choice to shoot our first collection. Her style is slightly dreamy – a nostalgic feel we want to convey,’ says Imogen. ‘We’ve worked with her ever since.’

GET NOTICED Getting on the radar of stockists and buyers can take time – although social media is a fantastic tool, if it’s used effectively. ‘Otherwise, research stores and outlets you think are a good fit with your brand, and send them a clear outline of what your company is all about, along with professional imagery and essential information,’ says Leonie. But what makes your product stand out from the rest? ‘We’re always looking for something that is a bit different and will spark joy or even jog a memory,’

says Kelly Bray, a childrenswear buyer at Selfridges in London. ‘There are also practical considerations – an item needs to be easy to wear. Of course, we also expect very high quality, and sustainability is incredibly important.’

DO THE BASICS While Imogen and Leonie didn’t invest a great deal financially into their enterprise initially, having a solid business plan right from the start is essential. ‘Keeping on top of finances can be incredibly time-consuming,’ says Imogen. ‘So if you can’t do it properly yourself, be prepared to seek professional help.’

Nevertheless, you need to be astute.

‘Ensure you fully understand the terms and conditions of your suppliers, as well as those of everybody else you deal with,’ says Kelly. ‘Reading the small print carefully can head off future problems.’

REMEMBER YOUR CUSTOMER It’s important to touch base regularly – talk to your customers about what they especially like, or ways to improve both your service and range. Focus groups can also be highly valuable.

The one lesson I’ve learnt...

DON’T TRY TO DO IT ALL YOURSELF; GET HELP ❝ WHERE AND WHEN YOU NEED IT. THE BEST THING I EVER DID WAS EMPLOY A BOOKKEEPER! ❞ COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

73

welcome to the world of

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

DESIGNER PROFILE

Meet Maria Sigma

TEXTILE DESIGNER

Maria takes care to make her environment as eco-friendly as her crafts

With her zero-waste designs and contemporary craftsmanship, Maria Sigma is creating beautiful woven textiles that feel right and relevant for 21st-century life Tell us about your design background. As a child, I used to draw and paint a lot, and I particularly liked to use yarns and textile materials, but I hadn’t tried weaving until my first degree in textile conservation, where I came across different textile making techniques. I then studied textile design and specialised in hand weaving at Chelsea College of Arts. I love weaving because it combines creativity, maths and incredible machinery (the loom).

FEATURE JACKY PARKER PHOTOGRAPH (PORTRAIT) ALUN CALLENDER

Where do you find creative inspiration? Inspiration comes from many different places, it could be a location, a book, a song, a memory, a person, an artwork, a weaving technique, materials and fibres or nature. I grew up in Athens and draw inspiration from my Greek heritage, as well as the British landscape, which I particularly like because of its earthy colours and rich textures.

Many of Maria’s pieces are one-offs

Why is it important for you to produce zero waste with what you create? The textile and fashion industry is one of the largest polluters on the planet. There aren’t many things we as consumers can do to stop it, but as a maker working as part of the industry, I’m trying not to add to the problem. I use natural undyed materials and/or waste yarns, and I consider the environmental impact at every stage of the design and making process, as well as within my daily working environment and studio space.

How would you describe your style? I like to emphasise the raw quality of the materials and textures.

By removing any superfluous elements, my aim is to produce high-quality interior products that are destined to become heirlooms.

What type of yarn do you work with? I love wool because of its ability to transform. Once woven and washed, depending on the temperature and agitation, and on the thickness of the yarn and the weaving patterns, wool can change dramatically – it becomes more textural and fluffy. It’s like it becomes alive. It’s also the only fibre that naturally has so many different colours and shades, which means no dyeing process, less energy and water waste and no toxins.

What’s your favourite piece?

My Hestia : Andros wall hanging, because of its technical elements and symbolism. It’s a one-of-a-kind

piece, handwoven with two woollen warps and a natural undyed linen/ jute/cotton weft, in a plain weave creating a circular tube format, which has been reversed inside-out and horizontally-vertically. It’s inspired by the Greek landscape and trousseaux pieces of my heritage (handcrocheted laces and handwoven bed-coverings) and it combines the Cycladic minimalism with the purity of the natural fibres that were traditionally used in the past.

Sum up your style in three words.

Minimal, natural and earthy.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

75

SHOPPING TREND

CH&I loves…

GLOWING EMBERS Recreate the drama of charcoal and flames with a hot take on country colours

Drape an effortless layer of tactile luxury on seating with accessories in fading tones.

Carbon dawn dip-dye throw, £65; cushion, £32; corduroy cushion, £32; seagrass basket, £42; ladder, £95; Aztec rug, £125, all French Connection Home

Create a bedroom sanctuary with calming ombre effects.

Marlowe jersey double quilt, £178; pillowcases, £68 for two; square pillowcases, £48 each, all Anthropologie

MAKE IT COUNTRYÉ Stoke up the hibernating warmth with dramatic contrasts of black and gold – think coals and flame, or even butter on toast. We’re talking vivid winter sun shades infused with burnished metallics and charcoal embers to deliver smouldering richness to any nest. Take the look lighter or darker, depending on lighting and silhouettes.

1 3

4

1 PO UF F E Rest and relax with your feet up. Faux leather pouffe in Bronze, £125, Raj Tent Club 2 D ECA NTER Pour your favourite tipple from a design made from recycled glass.

Mila decanter in Burnt Amber, £39.95, Nkuku

2

3 LAN TERN Pop in a tea light and enjoy the soft glow.

Brass finish candle lantern, £24, Curious Egg

5 6

4 A PR ON Blend into the room scheme with hardwearing contrast colours.

Linen workwear apron in Burnt Sienna, £65, Toast 5 F LO WER S Decorate with golden grasses. Faux Seterea flowers in Rich Orange wrapped in Paper, £15, Rockett St George 6 S OFA Snuggle up on a retro silhouette. Dylan fourseater sofa in Eton Cord Honey, from £2,595, Rose & Grey

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

77

SHOPPING TREND

Combine sustainability and style with a stack of recycled cotton lovelies.

Woven throws in Honey/ Black, Ecru and Honey, £32 each, Rose & Grey

Mix a medley of vases in mottled metallics and dipped glaze finishes. Lounge stool, £229; cushion, £49.90; vases, from a selection, all Bloomingville

OUR EXPERT SAYSÉ

BRAVE, CHARRED ❝TONES STRIKE A

SOPHISTICATED CONTRAST WHEN USED AGAINST YELLOWS AND ORANGES

❞

7

HOLLY PHILLIPS, STYLE CONTENT EDITOR

7 P ENDA NT Especially eye-catching when two or three are grouped together. Dexter ceiling pendant in Burnished Copper, £49, Atkin & Thyme

8

8 MU G Reactive glaze meets rustic texture. Ombre Black to Brown mug, £10, The Forest & Co

10 CU S HIO N Bring in a little abstract pattern. Saltaire cushion in Orange Red, £115, Wicklewood

10 9 78

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

9 TRAY Use this hammered design to serve or display. Antiqued Brass tray, £75, Ella James

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Frost and fade proof, therefore will w ng withstand harsh winters and scorching summ summers. eptualised to run seamle to out through a bi-fold door installat ly on patios, nd Ideal externally pa balconies and roof terraces rnally for kitchens, conservatori s d ing areas.

strength | beauty | resilience

SEASONAL DECOR

A home in

HARMONY Create a haven to ease the soul and soothe the senses, with beauty, grace and a refined but simple touch

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

81

TABLE TALK Make a cosy corner for winter dining with a circular table drawn up near a fire. An upholstered bench makes for comfortable seating, while the round rug claims the space in an open-plan setting.

SEASONAL DECOR

A warm glow ADOPT THE MOODBOOSTING SCANDI HABIT OF LIGHTING A CANDLE, MORNING, NOON OR NIGHT. CHOOSE NATURAL SCENTS FOR GENTLE STRESS RELEASE COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

83

WARM & COSY Reinvent the traditional fireside scene with a contemporary stove framed by a view, rather than a mantel. With soft drapes, squishy upholstery and a comfy pouffe, the look is a new take on country style.

SEASONAL DECOR

Refined rustic THE LOOK IS ELEGANT YET EASY. MARRY SOFT LINENS AND SUBTLE TEXTURE WITH NEAT LINES, BARE BRICK AND STEAM-BENT WOOD IN A GENTLE, NATUREINSPIRED PALETTE COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

85

SEASONAL DECOR

DREAM CATCHER Combine toasty shades and natural fabrics for dreamy slumber moments. Warming earth and spice shades pep up subtler coloured linens, with a signature cushion adding a touch of pattern.

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

SEASONAL DECOR

ALL THE DETAILS, PRODUCTS & PRICES A HOME IN HARMONY

PAGE 81

Back board painted in Valspar Norwegian Wood L10BW18D gloss finish, £21 for 1ltr, B&Q. Walls painted in Strong White estate emulsion No.2001, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball.

Organic granola, £5.99; organic whole wheat bran flakes, £2.99; Band White salad bowl, £29 each; Band White dinner plates, £18 each; White and Green enamel mugs, £9 each; bowl, £10; teapot, £29; organic cranberry & orange split oats, £4.99; Henry storage jar, £22; organic self-raising wholemeal flour, £1.99; anti-bacterial hand rub, £10; White & Natural check napkin, £10, all Daylesford. Lotta container with natural

TABLE TALK

PAGES 82-83

Fjord oak dining table, £475; Fjord oak dining chairs, £450 for pair; Mads Petite sofa in Soft Grey, £995; Agna rug, £175; Black spoons, £80 for set, all Cox & Cox. Urchin pendant light in Ash, £175, Tom Raffield.

Impression Cream breakfast bowls, £120 for 12-piece dinner set, Denby Pottery.

Bayswater vase, £44; Wentworth throw in Rose Hip, £170, both Neptune. Linen

FEATURE AND ART DIRECTION SARA BIRD STYLING SELINA LAKE STYLE ASSISTANTS SARAH PRALL AND BELLA DUNNE PHOTOGRAPHS DAN DUCHARS

WARM & COSY

PAGES 84-85

Rye three-seater sofa in Essentials Plain Taupe, £1,717, Sofas & Stuff. Curry light linen cushion, £42; Kata Nude cushion, £57, both Folk Interiors. Umber pure wool Dansko throw, £95, Loom & Last. Georgette round footstool in Flax pure Belgian linen, £750; Beaumont rug in Grey Marl, large, £699, both Sofa.com. Wycombe armchair, £480, Neptune. Mustard chevron throw, £55, Cox & Cox. Sideboard, £900, Design Vintage.

Mustard Roman-style vase, £24, Rockett St George. Elm Burr bud vase, £50; Elm moon plate, £60, both Ash & Plumb. Tortoiseshell tealight holder, for similar try Folk Interiors.

DREAM CATCHER

PAGE 86

Wall painted in Strong White estate emulsion No.2001, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Black metal Oliver bed frame, £445 for double, Feather & Black. Angle stool in natural oiled oak & natural bend leather by Form & Refine, £278, Skandium. Handcrafted sycamore bloom vase, £120, Ash & Plumb. Pillow mist, £14.95, Yellow Gorse. Orchy table lamp with natural jute shade, £135, Pooky. Framed

wood lids, £27 for small; £45 for large; Amber tumblers, £24 for two, all LSA. Gertrud bamboo cups, £19 for six; oak salt and pepper grinders, £79, all Folk Interiors.

Premium raw oak honey, £2.89, Maters & Co. Hazel terracotta roasting pot, £35, Kagu.

Handmade stoneware butter dish, £34, Rowen & Wren. Ash arc wood bowl, £40, Ash & Plumb. Mustard stoneware dinner plates, £15 each; side plates, £9 each; Ochre footed bowl, £14, all Rockett St George. Board, £33; mini egg holder, £8, both Bruun. Raw linen bread bag, £14, Pophams Home. Bread and pastries from a selection, Pophams Bakery.

Turned wood dish, £50, Nafisi Studio

cushion, £37, Folk Interiors. Amber grooved glass carafe, £30; amber grooved glass tumblers, £50 for six, Raj Tent Club. Pophams tea cup and saucer by Jess Ros, £25 each, Pophams Home. Amber tealight holder, £3.75, Sainsbury’s Home. Shutters, from a selection, Woody’s Shutters. Home for the Soul book by Sara Bird & Dan Duchars, £19.99, Ryland Peters & Small

Short wide candle holder by Andrea Roman, £28; latte cup by Jess Jos, £16.50, both Pophams Home. Cabbage mini stone bowl, £10.50, Daylesford. Curtain made from Ruskin by Morris & Co in Manilla, 236873, £59 m, Style Library. Similar dipped basket, £20, Cox & Cox

REFINED RUSTIC

Black log-storage basket, £120; Roda Mustard stoneware side plate, £12, both Rockett St George. Dillie stoneware match striker, £18, Nordic House. Natural rapeseed aromatherapy candle, £16.95, Yellow Gorse.

Mustard chevron throw, £55, Cox & Cox

botanical print, £275 for four, Cox & Cox. Oatmeal linen pillowcases, £36 per pair; square pillowcase, £38 per pair; kingsize duvet cover, £170; Cream linen crinkle throw, £120; Mustard linen pillowcase, £38 for pair, all Piglet in Bed. Brique Linen Marais throw, £140, Loom & Last. Autumn Green linen cushion cover, £37, Folk Interiors. Scallop stripe cushion in Sage, £70, Tori Murphy

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MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

Chilson console table, £160; square basket, from £45; Farringdon hook rail, £35; Holkham umbrella stand, £40, all Garden Trading

CURATE CORRIDOR CLUTTER To keep the flow through a hallway, go for an open console with shelves or drawers over chunky furniture pieces. Use the shelves to store blankets and scarves, using baskets to hide shoes.

Giving everything a home makes it easy for everyone in the family to tidy up. Coat hooks are ideal for jackets you use every day, but try not to overcrowd the hooks, and edit the selection seasonally.

Everything in its

PLACE

Create a sense of ease and order with simple storage tips that keep your home organised and your mind clear 88

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

C UPB OA RD BU DD IE S Hanging storage shelf, £3.50, Wilko. Variera shelf insert, £3, Ikea. Laundry capsules container, £15.99, Zara Home

Box files in Aurora Charcoal and Aurora Silver/Gold, £34.50 each, The Dormy House. Small box trays, £28 each; similar rectangular box trays, £68 each; laundry baskets, £180 each, all the Ashcroft range at Neptune. Cream tags, £1 for 10, Hobbycraft

THE ART OF FOLDING Start by organising linens and towels by category. Bundle bedding sets when they are put away, either by tying them together with string or ribbon or storing the set inside one of the corresponding pillowcases.

For small towels, flannels and additional pillowcases, stack them on their thinnest end, stored in labelled baskets rather than piles, making it easy to pull the basket out without disturbing everything else.

MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

Hanging seagrass basket, £12.50, Cox & Cox

G AT HE R BI T S A N D BOBS Designate jars and boxes or add a hanging basket to hooks in the hallway to store spare change, pens, batteries – all those miscellaneous items that end up cluttering surfaces or drawers.

Kallax unit, £25; Drona boxes, £3 each; drawer inserts, £17; Kvarnvik box set, £15, all Ikea

DIVIDE AND CONQUER Maximise hanging space in a wardrobe

USEF UL AN D BEAUT IFU L

by using skinny hangers for shirts and removing bulky items, such as jeans, to store folded on shelves instead. Ensure long items are hung at one side to free up space for a small shelving unit or drawers. Use these spaces to organise

Natural rattan three-tier storage stand, £225, Ella James. Aqua Nova Lubin storage basket, £15, Amara. Elizabeth jar, £35, Hunter & Co. Vintage-style numbered bottles, £12 for five, Rockett St George

smaller items, such as rolled T-shirts and scarves, or to stack shoes and sandals, adding boxes for jewellery or belts.

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Suffolk shelf, ÂŁ195, Neptune

STAT EM E N T S HELVI N G Be brave and paint not just the shelves a dark colour, but behind them, too. To style them, group similar items together to create vignettes, ensuring there’s a variety of shapes and sizes, leaving space around them so the eye rests on the display. To keep shelving uncluttered, maximise space inside cupboards by using under-shelf baskets, stacking shelf inserts or racks for pans, lids or baking trays.

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MAKE A HOUSE A HOME Solna bar trolley, £375, Nordic House

TRE AT THE SE NSES Iris Hantverk cedar balls, £5, Arket.

Morris & Co scented drawer liners, £10 for five, Heathcote & Ivory. Scented oval, £45, Diptyque

CALM AND COLLECTED

Audley storage jars, from £8 each, Garden Trading

F LE XI B L E PI ECES A trolley can be a flexible friend, and the thin frame and minimalist design makes it perfect for small spaces. When not in use, create a display with your bottles and glasses, adding a plant, vase, lamp or candle. It will work in the kitchen as an over-flow piece, in the bathroom for stacked towels and toiletry bottles, and in an office or hallway.

3 OF THE BEST SHOE STORAGE OPTIONS

3

1

2 1. Extendable stackable shoe rack, £22.99, Lakeland 2. Like It shoe holders, £6 for two, John Lewis & Partners 3. Skubb shoe boxes, £7 for four, Ikea 92

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FEATURE MICHELA COLLING PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

Decanting frequently used items into matching jars will create a uniform look. Try to use up what you have before buying new to avoid too many bottles cluttering up the bath or shower ledge.

Have a clear out of the bathroom cupboard, too.

Elfa rack, £95, A Place For Everything

S PACE SAV E R In utility spaces, bathrooms or even teenager’s bedrooms, the back of the door can be prime storage space. And because you can easily see what you have, you’ll be more inclined to use it up and not over-buy. This easy-to-reach storage is ideal for items that are in constant use, such as washing detergents and tea towels, while less-used cleaning items can be stored away.

OUR EXPERT SAYS…

HAVING AN ❝ ORGANISED HOME WILL REDUCE TIME SPENT CLEANING AND ALLOW YOU TO ENJOY YOUR SURROUNDINGS MORE

❞

VICKY SILVERTHORN, PROFESSIONAL ORGANISER, YOUNEEDAVICKY.COM

Clever ways to

CONFIGURE YOUR KITCHEN SPACE TIME FOR A NEW LAYOUT? USE EXPERT DESIGN TRICKS TO MEET YOUR NEEDS AND MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR FLOOR SPACE

KITCHEN IDEAS

GET IN THE ZONE When planning your kitchen layout, one key aspect is to consider how you want to use the kitchen and where you want items to be stored. Naturally, heavy pots and pans should be kept in lower cabinets, and within easy reach of your oven and hob. Likewise, mugs should never be too far away from your kettle. In this open-plan scheme, the dining table is in the same space as the kitchen, so the addition of a tall dresser provides storage for crockery and cutlery, to make laying the table quick and easy.

Bespoke kitchen, from ÂŁ35,000, Martin Moore COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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PUT IN A PANTRY

Bespoke Shakerstyle kitchen, from ÂŁ30,000 including appliances, worktops and installation, Sustainable Kitchens

A pantry or larder separate from the rest of your kitchen can help keep things clear and tidy, as it is an ideal space to keep store cupboard staples and baking equipment. In this barn conversion project, the ceilings were low and natural light was limited, so a walk-in pantry was designed with internal windows and under-counter cabinets only, so that it could feel bright and connected to the rest of the kitchen. Automatic lighting makes it extra bright inside.

KITCHEN IDEAS

Simply Burbidge Finsbury kitchen in Seal Grey, from £7,500, Burbidge

LEAN INTO AN L-SHAPE Most L-shaped kitchens are fitted on to adjacent walls of a room, creating a practical corner design. They provide plenty of work surface as well as storage, though be mindful of where the two runs of cabinetry meet – the addition of pull-out drawers or an internal carousel will help to avoid wasting useful storage space. Consider keeping wall cabinets to one side of an L-shaped layout, opting for open shelving on the other so as not to make the room feel overcrowded. If space allows, you could add a dining table.

FIT RIGHT IN You are likely to inherit some unusual nooks in older country properties, so taking a flexible approach to your kitchen design may be necessary. Look for alcoves and recesses that you can build storage into and toss out the idea of a conventional fixed layout.

Add single runs of cabinetry where they fit best in the space you have to work with, incorporating your appliances in between.

To add to this flexible approach, go for a free-standing island design – units on legs open up the amount of floor space on show and can be moved around if needed, too.

The Hartford collection in Willow, from £20,000, Tom Howley

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KITCHEN IDEAS

Kitchen, from £25,000, Life Kitchens

BUILD BANQUETTE SEATING You can fit more seating into the available space when it is built into the design of your kitchen, as in this smart L-shaped layout with banquette seating. The fitted, upholstered benches not only provide storage beneath, but are a clever way to hide any unsightly wires or pipework. ‘These are a necessary evil that may have to be boxed in to be concealed,’ says Daniela Condo, designer at Life Kitchens. ‘See if services can be re-routed inside bulkheads, voids or under the plinth of the kitchen.’

MAKE A STAND

The Sebastian Cox kitchen, from £15,000, deVOL

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Often found in rustic-style homes, freestanding furniture offers a more flexible approach to kitchen design. It’s a relaxed look, enabling you to add single runs of cabinets around the kitchen to create your ideal layout, incorporating your appliances in between. This mix-and-match method works particularly well in older, country-style properties where the room may be unusually shaped. Paired with complementary wallhung cabinets, a run of wooden free-standing cabinets will provide ample storage in a small kitchen, as seen in this example by deVOL.

GATHER AROUND THE KITCHEN TABLE A kitchen-diner layout is ideal for busy family households, where both the cooking and dining zones sit within the same design. ‘When planning a kitchen, take inspiration from the existing features in the room, such as doors, thoroughfares and windows,’ says Sally Hinks, kitchen designer at Harvey Jones.

‘Looking at these elements will help you site the table in the best possible position.’

The Original kitchen, from £20,000, Harvey Jones

GO WITH THE FLOW

Bespoke kitchen, from £40,000, Naked Kitchens

‘Always walk through the plan in your mind to ensure it flows well and works efficiently, making sure that you can easily and fully access appliances so there are no pinch points,’ says Jayne Everett, creative director at Naked Kitchens. ‘If you go for an island, make sure there’s enough space around it to pass through and open cabinets,’ she adds. It’s the well-planned, seamless flow around the U-shaped layout and the double-ended island that makes this kitchen design work well.

KITCHEN IDEAS

Bespoke kitchen, from £40,000, Humphrey Munson

UTILISE THE U-SHAPE The U-shaped kitchen is one of the most efficient layouts to have in both small and open-plan homes alike. It is the easiest way to achieve the ergonomic triangle that is so often talked about in kitchen design – where your fridge, cooker and sink are all within easy reach of one another. Larger kitchens can often accommodate the addition of a central island, too. With plenty of room for cabinetry and built-in appliances around the edge, the island provides a casual seating area and additional preparation space.

FEATURE YVETTE MURRELL

INCLUDE AN ISLAND With open-plan living proving increasingly popular, islands today come in a range of styles, functions and sizes to suit your space.

Offering the possibility of extra room for both cooking and seating, they can help turn a kitchen into the hub of the home. To make an island the focal point, choose one in a different colour from the rest of your cabinetry, as shown in this traditional kitchen design that combines earthy brown and off-white. The length of this island allows a variety of different elements to be included, including a sink and ample storage.

The Durham collection, from £780 for a bifold dresser, LochAnna Kitchens

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LITERARY REFLECTIONS

Create a ‘hall of mirrors’ with these impressive hand-made statement pieces. Six fixed mirrored glass shelves feature an antiqued finish, edged with wood painted antique gold – every inch is mirrored, including the undersides. Line them up and watch light bounce.

Versailles ashmolean bookshelves in Antique Bronze, £1,695, Oka

Join the

BOOK CLUB

WHEN IT COMES TO BOOKCASES WE’RE ON THE SAME PAGE AS YOU, WITH SMART SHELVING THAT DOES JUSTICE TO THE CLASSICS ON YOUR READING LIST

FURNITURE BUYER’S GUIDE

VISIONARY TWIST

FLEXISCANDI

Just the thing for home office headquarters, this asymmetric beauty offers both open and veneer panelled storage areas.

Lars open shelving unit, £799, Heal’s

A wonderfully odd twist on a classic, don’t let the distorted silhouette deceive you. Made from stainless steel rigging designed to withstand hurricanes, you can safely pile on the page-turners.

De-constructed industrial bookcase, £585, Konk

INJECT CHARACTER AND ❝ PERSONALITY INTO FUNCTIONAL

PIECES WITH AN ASSORTMENT OF STAGGERED HEIGHTS, VARIED SHAPES AND ECLECTIC STYLES

❞

CURATE & CONTRAST

Display beloved tomes among other treasures in this stylish, openbook design. Tiered and fabulously freestanding, an antique brass-plated frame hugs whitewashed mango wood.

Laguna shelving unit, £599, Atkin & Thyme

EBONY DRAMA

Inspired by traditional campaign-style furniture, this stunning individual benefits from three spacious shelves for books, magazines and documents.

And wheels make it a mobile library!

Barnett black bookcase, £885, Sweetpea & Willow COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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FURNITURE BUYER’S GUIDE

ORGANISED LIGHT OAK

A clear matt lacquer finish shows off the natural beauty of the wood, while the gently curved finger joints bring softness to the piece.

Bosco low bookcase, £640, Ercol

MARBLE MAZE

This eternity design features a thick slice of natural marble that has been polished and paired with a sturdy bronzedmetal frame to striking effect.

Fitzroy Bronze Emperador marble circular shelving unit, £1,200, Libra

BESPOKE WALLSCAPE

Configured from wall storage units, this modular masterpiece includes four base units with doors, plus six double shelf and eight single shelf units.

Bruton library wall, £2,520, The Dormy House

STYLE SHELVES WITH ❝ THINGS THAT WILL MAKE

YOU SMILE – SUCH AS INSPIRED READS, ART AND PLANTS

❞

SNAKES & LADDERS

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SLIDE AND GLIDE

Giving Victorian libraries a run for their money, this modern adaptation blends the best of past and present. Create an artful display of your books across its whopping 15 shelves.

Hampsey bookcase with ladder, £1,867, Shropshire Design

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

A top choice for smaller spaces, this versatile lean-to offers generous storage with a dainty footprint. Move this wall-loving champ from room to room as your needs evolve.

Ladder bookcase in White oiled ash, £2,220, Autoban at Monologue

AWA R D -W I N N I N G R I V E R C RU I S E S HOLIDAY HAPPINESS. GUAR ANTEED

Up to €400 on-board credit Book by 28 February 2021*

Dreaming of a holiday in 2021? With industry-leading health and safety practices, flexible booking options and our ‘happiness guarantee’, we will ensure you have an unforgettable holiday without compromise.

• Exceptional experiences, with no compromises If you’re not completely happy by day two, we’ll bring you home with a full refund • Industry-leading health and safety practices to keep you safe For your peace of mind, we include a mandatory Covid-19 test before departure for all guests • Free to change your mind with fully flexible booking Change your booking for free up to 45 days before travel

Award-Winning Luxury River Cruises

Cruise destination

Duration

From

Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbfields

8 days

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5 days

£929pp

Budapest to the Black Sea

15 days

£2,679pp

The Blue Danube

8 days

£1,289pp

Cruise the Heart of Europe

15 days

£3,099pp

Medieval Germany

8 days

£1,989pp

Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg

8 days

£1,739pp

Amsterdam, Cologne & the Best of Holland & Flanders

8 days

£1,199pp

Rhine & Moselle

8 days

£1,559pp

The Douro, Porto & Salamanca

8 days

£1,639pp

The Seine, Paris & Normandy

8 days

£1,559pp

Burgundy, the River Rhone & Provence

8 days

£1,489pp

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland

8 days

£1,889pp

Vienna, Bohemia & the Treasures of the Danube

8 days

£1,389pp

With so much included: • Spacious and beautifully appointed suites or cabins with hotel-style beds, en-suite bathrooms and river views • Exceptional cuisine with full board throughout • Extensive and fully inclusive touring programmes • Return flights from a choice of regional airports or standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras • Return rail connections on selected dates and cruises from over 50 regional stations (supplements may apply) • The services of our experienced cruise director and concierge

Departures from March to November 2021

To book or request a brochure, call 01283 523454 or visit cohriviera.co.uk TERMS & CONDITIONS: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Country Homes & Interiors, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print. *Book by 28th February, 2021.

Exclusions apply, offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotions. For full T&Cs please visit website for details.

Brilliant BATH MATERIALS

FROM MODERN METHODS OF MAKING TO TIME-HONOURED DESIGNS, THESE ARE THE TUBS WE CAN’T WAIT TO TAKE A RELAXING DIP INTO…

Imperium bateau bath, from £2,238, The Albion Bath Company

UNIQUE ISO-ENAMEL The best of both worlds, Albion Bath’s Iso-enamel material – a selfreinforced, cast-stone resin and mineral mixture – was invented to mimic the appearance of traditional cast iron, without the inherent drawbacks.

‘Iso-enamel baths weigh a third of the amount of an equivalent cast-iron bath, so there’s no need to reinforce your floors or hire a team to lift one into your home,’ says Phil Etherden, managing director of The Albion Bath Company.

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Vigore bath, £2,799, Clearwater

ROOM ELEMENTS

SPA-LIKE STONE Feeling indulgent? Choosing a bath made from marble, granite or travertine can take your bathroom to a new level of luxury. Natural stone is commonly used in spas and can retain heat for a long period of time, allowing you longer to relax and unwind. Real statement pieces, the cost of these types of baths can vary depending on the material used.

Consider it an investment that will last for years to come, as they won’t crack like some acrylic designs can over time.

Bath in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue, from £3,498; Samuel Heath Landmark Pure bath shower mixer, price on request, both CP Hart

❝

VERSATILE ACRYLIC

BARRIE CUTCHIE, DESIGN DIRECTOR AT BC DESIGNS

❞

Acrylic baths are a popular option these days, and for good reason, too. ‘They are significantly lighter than baths made of other materials, such as stone resin or cast iron, which makes them simpler to move and place,’ says Yousef Mansuri, head of design at CP Hart. ‘Acrylic is non-porous and of solid durability, although it can be prone to warping over time.’

Tay bath, from £3,570; Classic bath & shower mixer with Mull Heads, from £2,448, both Drummonds

TRADITIONAL CAST IRON Once upon a time almost all baths were made from cast iron. ‘One thing that you do need to consider before buying a cast iron bath,’ says James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds, ‘is that the area where you plan to locate it is strong enough to bear not just the weight of the bath when empty, but also when it’s full of water.’

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ECO-FRIENDLY LUCITE Lucite is a type of acrylic material that is 100% recyclable, making it an increasingly popular choice for environmentally conscious homeowners and bathroom designers alike. It’s hard-wearing, non-slip make-up is both scratch- and chemical-resistant, which is useful for busy households, and its naturally gleaming finish can be painted easily in a colour of your choice to suit any bathroom scheme.

River back-to-wall bath in Tangerine, from £1,695, Water Baths of Ashbourne

3 O F T HE B E ST BATH FILLERS

FEATURE YVETTE MURRELL PHOTOGRAPHS (UNIQUE ISO-ENAMEL) LITTLE GREENE

Complete your bathroom look with a classic piece of brassware

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1. Claremont Regent bath shower mixer in Gold, £699, Burlington 2. Invincible 7860 deck-mounted exposed bath filler, around £460, Swadling Brassware 3. Bath filler on standpipes with floorplate, £1,920, Catchpole & Rye COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Omnia bath, from £2,940, BC Designs

ROOM ELEMENTS

Need to know...

fitting your bath ■ START BY MEASURING UP The standard size

of most baths is around 1700x700mm, though some models do come in smaller sizes. If space allows, you could also opt for a larger design for a more indulgent soak.

❝

■ CHOOSE BETWEEN FREE-STANDING AND FITTED Which one you choose will depend on

I

the size of your space and how you intend to use it. If you need it to have an overhead shower, then a fitted design is more practical.

■ CONSIDER THE WEIGHT Find out how much

❞

YOUSEF MANSURI, HEAD OF DESIGN AT CP HART

a bathtub weighs before you buy, as you may need to call in the professionals to ensure your home is structurally sound. This could mean having your flooring reinforced if you go for a cast-iron or stone design – particularly if it is an older property.

■ BEAR BRASSWARE IN MIND The bath you

choose will determine what type of taps can go with it. Some designs have holes ready for single or mixer taps, but for others you will need to source wall-mounted or free-standing taps. Check if you need to buy wastes, overflows and feet separately, too.

The copper bateau with Verdigris exterior and bopper interior, £6,000, Catchpole & Rye

SLEEK SOLID SURFACING Unaffected by fluctuating moisture ingression and humidity, Cian is a patented solid surface from BC Designs made from an advanced blend of acrylic modified polyester resin and mineral fillers. And while this innovative technology is relatively new, you can still achieve a classic look by choosing a polished finish in a colour of your choice and a more traditionally shaped bathtub to fit in with your country-style home.

CLEANLY COPPER Copper has been in use for centuries thanks to its antibacterial properties, and the material is also good at retaining heat, making it an ideal option for a bath. It tends to develop a patina naturally over time, though most baths will be finished in a protective lacquer. For those who like this antique finish, you can also buy bathtubs with an aged look already applied to the exterior.

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HOME TECH

Buy the best...

EASY-BREEZY HOME AIR PURIFIER

POOR AIR QUALITY AFFECTS OUR HEALTH AND CAN WORSEN ALLERGY AND ASTHMA SYMPTOMS. BREATHE DEEPLY AGAIN WITH AN AIR PURIFIER BEST FOR… ALL-YEAR COMFORT Pure hot + cool air purifier, £550, Dyson This versatile, Alexa-compatible design is a heater, cooling fan and an air purifier, making it great for year-round use. It automatically analyses the quality of the air in the room and gives you a real-time report on the built-in LCD screen, or via the Dyson app. The glass HEPA filter captures 99.95% of allergens and pollutants, while the Air Multiplier technology smoothly circulates purified air.

BEST FOR… SMALL SPACES

n HOW DO THEY WORK? Based around a fan and a filter – often made from paper or fibreglass – most purifiers suck dirty air through them causing the pollutants and particles to be captured, then clean air is pushed back out into the room. These filters generally need replacing every few months to maintain efficiency. Other designs use ionisers to help attract particles — negative ions bond to dust particles and remove them from the air. n DO I REALLY NEED ONE? While we rightly hear a lot about the harmful effects of outside air pollution, indoor air can be five times as dirty, and this is one of the leading causes for respiratory complaints. An air purifier will help eliminate these airborne nasties, which could be of huge benefit if you suffer from allergies, have breathing issues or just dread hay fever season. n CAN I IMPROVE AIR QUALITY WITHOUT ONE? Whenever possible, open windows and create a throughdraft to remove pollutants and vacuum regularly with a cleaner that has a HEPA filter. Candles, open fires and smoking cause pollutants, so keep these to a minimum.

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BEST FOR… QUIET CLEANING IonFlow 2.0 Signature, £469, LightAir More of a sculpture than a small appliance, this Scandinavian design can clean an area up to 50sq m in almost total silence. It uses ionising technology to negatively charge the pollutant particles in the air, making them stick to the collector, instead of remaining airborne. It works just like a magnet for air pollution and can greatly improve the atmosphere for those who have asthma and allergies.

BEST FOR… VALUE Pure Air 300, £229, Vax Especially efficient at removing smoke and pollen, this large white cylinder offers great air purification for rooms up to 120sq m and has been rated to remove 99.97% of harmful particles as small as 0.3 microns. While it lacks smart features, you do get five speed settings and a choice of five timers, as well as a clever dust sensor light that even lets you see the dust particles being sucked in and cleaned.

FEATURE CHRIS HASLAM

Blue Pure Fan removes 99% of airborne dust and pollen in just 20 minutes, £249, Breathing Space

MeacoClean CA-HEPA 76x5, £199.99, Meaco A Wi-Fi-connected, app-controllable air purifier without an exorbitant asking price.

Relatively compact and discreet, it draws in dirty air from all sides and cleans using a H11 HEPA filter that removes 95% harmful particles from the air. We also like the traffic light system that changes colour according to the air quality.

K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

The integrated fridgefreezer is topped with shelves filled with wine triangles for storing bottles

PROJECT PROFILE Owners Wendy Walker

Warm WELCOME

and Thomas French live here with their children Ruby, nine, Sidney, eight, and Frank, one.

House A 450-year-old four-bedroom farmhouse in West Yorkshire.

Project A new kitchen as part of a whole house renovation.

Kitchen size 6x4m.

Designer Leigh Topping, designer, Drew Forsyth & Co.

Cabinetry Classic Chamfer kitchen in Farrow & Ball Preference Red and Paean Black, by Drew Forsyth & Co.

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These bifold doors open to reveal dark oiled oak shelves

The antiqued mirror splashback reflects natural light, increasing the sense of space in the room

L

ooking across the valley to the Yorkshire moors beyond, Wendy Walker and Thomas French knew that their decision to buy the dilapidated farmhouse was right. ‘It is the most beautiful spot,’ says Wendy. ‘We both knew it was where we wanted to spend the rest of our lives.’

Constructed of huge pieces of dressed Yorkshire gritstone, the ancient Yeoman Clothiers farmhouse, dating back to 1575, had not been lived in for 10 years and its most recent renovations were made in the 1960s. Wendy, a mental health nurse and care coordinator, and Thomas, director of ETEC Escalators, began a major renovation of the listed property.

This included wheeling barrow after barrow of clay outside the house as they excavated the floor to prepare it for underfloor heating. ‘It was the most laborious job,’ says Wendy, ‘but we preferred to keep modern additions, such as radiators, to a minimum.’

When it came to the gloomy, dated kitchen, they took an equally sympathetic approach. ‘We wanted to create

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a room that was suitable for modern family life with traditional cabinetry that would sit comfortably in a Tudor house,’ explains Wendy, who approached local company Drew Forsyth & Co, known for its bespoke, hand-crafted kitchens. The furniture was made to fit the uneven walls perfectly, maximise storage and work surface, and fit family-size appliances. The colour scheme was chosen by Wendy. ‘I love the striking, bold colours because they are also rich and harmonious, and unlike anything I had seen used previously,’ she says.

They obtained planning permission to add a new stone mullioned window to introduce more natural light into the room. ‘We were able to create an inviting seating area with breakfast table, positioned for farreaching views across the valley,’ says Wendy.

With three children – and a fourth on the way – Wendy is often preoccupied with prepping family meals. ‘But when I stop and reflect, I realise how far we have come from the days of mud and hard work and appreciate our kitchen all the more – it’s just how I want it to be,’ she says.

K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

An oak tray slides neatly into its own slot on the cook’s table

Bifold doors here allow unobstructed access to the breakfast cupboard, which contains sockets for small appliances

CABINETRY

COOKS TABLE

COOKER

BREAKFAST TABLE AND BENCH

THE LAYOUT The range cooker is built into a faux chimney breast.

Flanked by an integrated fridge-freezer on one side, breakfast cupboard on the other, the sink is close by.

A larder cupboard is opposite, with cook’s table as a bridge between the two sides of the room. A breakfast table with built-in seating completes the design.

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An overhang at one end of the cook’s table provides space to pull up a bar stool

1 WARM WELCOME

3 114

CLEVER DESIGN SOLUTIONS

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

COOK’S TABLE

‘In a slender space, a narrow island tends to look stingy and as if it might topple over,’ explains Drew Forsyth & Co designer Leigh Topping. ‘A cook’s table, however, with light passing through its base, looks much more balanced.’ Finished with chunky, traditional-style legs, this sturdy table has a granite top to offer preparation and serving space. It also includes drawers, a fitted oak chopping board and tray, with a slatted base for baskets and pots. ‘It makes a fantastic, multi-functional centrepiece in the room,’ says Wendy.

K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

2

COLOUR

3

BREAKFAST AREA

‘I went to the stone yard to pick the granite for the worktops as my starting point,’ says Wendy, who chose a stone to complement the limestone floor. She echoed the granite’s flecks of deep purple and burgundy in the colours she chose to paint the cabinetry, working with Leigh to create a balance of hues in the space. ‘I didn’t want to play it safe,’ she explains. ‘It is our family home, so why not choose something as wild and personal as we want?’ The rich colours enhance the inviting feel of the room, offset by a soft, warm neutral used for the walls.

The deep raspberry and rich red-based black of the cabinets create a natural sense of warmth

The old kitchen didn’t include space for the family to gather for meals, something that Wendy and Thomas wanted to resolve. ‘Given the age, character and listed status of the house, we couldn’t enlarge the room,’ explains Wendy. Instead, they were able to include a bespoke circular table underneath the new window to make a light-filled spot, complete with fitted booth seating.

The seats can be lifted to reveal storage, while open shelves at each end are perfect for recipe books.

THE DETAILS CABINETRY Bespoke Classic Chamfer kitchen with bespoke dining table and bench seating.

Kitchen cabinetry, from £20,000, Drew Forsyth & Co; in Preference Red and Paean Black estate eggshell, £64 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

SURFACES Similar Seagrass granite worktops and upstands, from £5,000; similar antiqued mirror splashback, from £500; both Drew Forsyth & Co. Bayonne Provence limestone floor tiles, from £70.80m sq, Mandarin Stone, are a match. Walls in Jitney modern emulsion, £49.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

APPLIANCES

FEATURE AMELIA THORPE PHOTOGRAPHS PAUL CRAIG

Elise 110 dual fuel range cooker in Black, £2,449; FM900 built-in extractor, £695, is similar, both Rangemaster. RS90A1 integrated French door fridge-freezer, £3,435, Fisher & Paykel. WS19SDX wine cooler, £49, Montpellier. S513G60X0G fully integrated dishwasher, £518, Neff.

RHFM2363S microwave, £125, Russell Hobbs, is similar

SINKS & TAPS Pronteau Prostyle 3-in-1 tap, £749, Abode. Kubus Fraganite undermounted sink, £416, Franke

ACCESSORIES

Bench seating, painted to match the kitchen cabinetry, curves around the circular oak-topped breakfast table

Vinny bar stool, £99, Cult Furniture, is a match. Evedal pendant light (above cook’s table), £115, Ikea. Garcia pendant light (above breakfast table), £96.10, ManoMano

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Super P la nt Po w e r e d

January. Time for getting into healthy habits.

But turning over a new leaf is easier than you think with Baxters’ Plant Based range of soups.

Super healthy ingredients in some super global inspired flavour combinations. 2021‌sorted.

IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN

COOKS’ NOTES That’s the (0%) spirit If you want the tipple without the totter, these no-alcohol spirit alternatives are just the ticket

• Warner’s Juniper Double Dry 0% Botanic Garden Spirit 0% ABV, 50cl, £18, M&S Crafted with flavour in mind, this gin-like spirit is aromatic with hints of herbs and spice. It’s beautiful served with tonic water and garnished with an orange slice.

• Feragaia 0% ABV, 50cl, £24.95, feragaia.com Meaning wild earth in Latin, Feragaia combines 14 land and sea botanicals to create a vermouth-type, alcohol-free spirit. It’s citrussy with a fiery finish and is a gorgeous, warm amber colour.

FEATURE SAMUEL GOLDSMITH

• Lyre’s Amaretti 0% ABV, 700ml, £23.50, lyres.co.uk The perfect digestif for a cold winter evening. Full of the flavour of almonds with a hit of spice and vanilla.

Serve over ice or combine with lemon juice and bitters to replicate an Amaretto sour.

MINDFUL BAKING

Bread Therapy (£12.99, Yellow Kite), is an ode to the feel-good power of artisan bread.

It’s not your usual cookbook – author Pauline Beaumont is a mental health professional and has explored why baking bread can be so good for an individual’s wellbeing. The book is full of insight for novice bakers, and for those who already love to bake, it’s sure to help you feel more connected to your craft.

FROM LEBANON, WITH LOVE On the Lebanese side of the snowcapped peaks of Mount Hermon grow native Souri and Balade olives. A selection of these, organically grown on a single estate, are farmed, hand-picked and cold-extracted to make Haramoun Olive Oil (500ml, £15.95, haramoun.co.uk).

With a balance of fruity, bitter almond and warm pepper flavours, it’s wonderful drizzled over salad or fish.

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OVEN-BAKED LENTIL SOUP WITH GREENS >

Wholesome, hearty

& HOME-GROWN THE FAMOUS GARDENS AT GREAT DIXTER ARE THE SOURCE OF THE RECIPES – AND INGREDIENTS – FOR THESE SATISFYING DISHES, THE PERFECT ANTIDOTE TO A CHILLY FEBRUARY DAY

G O O D F O O D, G O O D T I M E S

PAPER-BAKED TROUT WITH HERBS >

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G O O D F O O D, G O O D T I M E S

OVEN-BAKED LENTIL SOUP WITH GREENS

PAPER-BAKED TROUT WITH HERBS

Make a big batch of this simple, delicious soup; the

This is a great way to cook trout; wrapping the fish

flavours will deepen the longer it is left. You can swap in different ingredients depending on your

in newspaper stops it drying out, and when you open the parcel, the skin will come away neatly

mood and the season – kale, Swiss chard or perpetual spinach, or even parsley (stems and all)

along with the paper. You can adapt this recipe throughout the year, using whichever herbs happen

are all great additions.

to be at their peak.

SERVES 6-8

SERVES 4

2ltr chicken or vegetable stock 225g dried yellow

2 bay leaves 1½tsp ground cumin ½tsp salt

4 x 350g rainbow trout (or brown trout if you are lucky enough to get

parsley, dill and fennel tops all work well)

split peas

1tsp pepper

hold of them), gutted

Lemon slices

225g dried green or brown lentils

Large bunch seasonal greens (about 250g),

and cleaned but with tail and head intact

Salt and pepper

4 carrots, scrubbed, trimmed and chopped

stripped away from any large stems, then sliced

into 2.5cm pieces 4 celery stalks, chopped

Chopped herbs, to garnish

into 2.5cm pieces 1 leek, chopped into 2.5cm pieces

Crusty bread and butter, to serve (optional)

1 Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4.

2 Put the stock, dried yellow split peas and lentils, vegetables, bay leaves, cumin, salt and pepper into a large heavy casserole dish and stir to combine. Cover and bake in the oven for 1hr, or until the peas and lentils are tender.

3 Remove from the oven and discard the bay leaves.

4 Stir through the seasonal greens until wilted. Just before serving, garnish with chopped herbs, then ladle the soup into warmed soup plates and serve with bread and butter, if desired.

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Herbs (lemon thyme,

1 Preheat the oven to 190C/Gas 5.

2 Wash the trout thoroughly and dry the inside of each fish with paper towels but leave the outside moist. Lightly season with salt and pepper inside the gut cavity, then fill the cavity of each fish with a handful of fresh herbs and a few halved lemon slices.

3 For each trout, you will need one doublepage sheet of a tabloid newspaper. Lay the sheet in portrait position and place the fish near the bottom of the page, with the open side towards you. Take the bottom of the sheet and wrap it up over the open side and fold in the sides so that they align with the length of the fish. Roll the fish up carefully in the paper. If the paper tears too much and you can see the fish through the wrap, start again.

You may want to put a small arrow on the head end of each package to remind you on which side of the package the gut cavity is.

4 Place the wrapped fish side by side on a baking sheet and bake for about 25 mins (times will vary slightly depending on the size of your fish).

5 Once baked, put each wrapped fish on a plate. With a pair of scissors, cut the newspaper package open along the gut cavity side of the fish and then make cuts up towards the gills and across the bottom of tail. Take hold of the cut paper and the skin of the fish and gently peel back so that the flesh is exposed, and the head and the tail remain wrapped.

6 If the skin does not peel away from the fish easily, return the wrapped fish to the oven for 5 mins more, then try again.

FENNEL, AUBERGINE AND ARTICHOKE CAPONATA >

G O O D F O O D, G O O D T I M E S

FENNEL, AUBERGINE AND ARTICHOKE CAPONATA

BAKED APRICOTS WITH BAY AND HONEY

Caponata is a great test of culinary ingenuity! You

Baking apricots intensifies the flavour and will

can make this versatile dish with fresh vegetables if you have them, or preserved if you don’t, and serve

bring the best out of any fruit that is not quite perfectly ripe. The combination of spices in this

it as a vegetarian main course with some good bread, for lunch with an egg on top or as a side dish

syrup accentuates different aspects of the apricot’s flavour – herbal and even a little spicy. Try them

to accompany any roasted or grilled meat or fish.

with a scoop of good-quality vanilla ice-cream or double cream. This recipe would also work well

SERVES 4

with fresh peaches.

3 tomatoes, diced 4tbsp canned chopped tomatoes

200g artichoke hearts

4tbsp red wine vinegar

100g runny honey 5 cardamom pods,

1tsp coarse sea salt

in olive oil, drained) Lemon juice, to prevent

2tbsp capers, drained and rinsed

cracked opened Generous pinch of

3 small bay leaves 10 apricots

discolouration (if using fresh artichokes)

2tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1tbsp finely chopped basil

2 spring onions, chopped 1 small fennel bulb, trimmed and thinly sliced 1 aubergine, peeled and diced into 1.5cm cubes

1tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley 1tbsp finely chopped lemon thyme Salt and pepper Toasted bread, to serve

1 Heat the oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Add the onion, cover and leave for 10 mins to sweat down, stirring every so often.

2 Meanwhile, prepare the globe artichokes, if using. Remove the leaves until only the innermost leaves and hearts remain. Trim the stems and hard leaf remnants around the bottoms, and use a vegetable peeler to peel the stems, removing the tough exterior.

Chop the hearts in half and use a spoon to remove the hairy chokes. Cut in half again so you are left with quarters of artichoke heart.

3 If you are not using them immediately, rub with a little lemon juice to stop discolouration.

4 Add the garlic, spring onions, fennel, aubergine, tomatoes, artichoke hearts, vinegar, capers and pumpkin seeds to the frying pan with the onion, cover and simmer for 10 mins, or until all the vegetables are tender.

5 Add the herbs and cook, uncovered, for another 5 mins to allow the flavours to combine. Season with salt and pepper and serve warm or at room temperature, spooned over toasted bread.

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SERVES 4-6

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

saffron threads

1 Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4.

2 Put the honey, 100ml water, the cardamom pods, saffron, salt and bay leaves into a small pan. Place over a medium heat and cook until the mixture comes to a boil. Simmer gently for 3 mins and then remove from the heat.

3 Place the whole apricots in a small baking dish big enough to hold the apricots quite snugly – you don’t want too much space between them. Pour over the honey mixture, using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to scrape out any saffron threads that have stuck to the side of the pan.

4 Roast the apricots in the oven for 40 mins, removing them to baste and turn every so often, or until they are very soft, but still hold their shape.

5 Remove from the heat and either serve immediately, or set aside until cool and then store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Grow Fruit and Vegetables in Pots: Planting Advice & Recipes from Great Dixter by Aaron Bertelsen is published by Phaidon – photography by Andrew Montgomery

FEATURE SAMUEL GOLDSMITH PHOTOGRAPHS ANDREW MONTGOMERY

4tbsp rapeseed oil ½ onion, finely chopped 4 globe artichokes (or

BAKED APRICOTS WITH BAY AND HONEY

Oak is both a natural and sympathetic material and is often a key choice for extending period properties, as shown by this Prime Oak project

All you need to knowÉ

EXTENSIONS

A WELL-DESIGNED EXTENSION WILL ADD SPACE, STYLE AND VALUE TO YOUR COUNTRY HOME. HERE’S OUR GUIDE TO GETTING IT RIGHT…

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

R E N O V AT I O N G U I D E

Brick or stone extensions can blend seamlessly with the original parts of the property, so that the character of the house is maintained

B Done well, glass extensions on period properties can add a real, yet sympathetic, style statement

esides boosting your home’s floor space, an extension can help pave the way for a reconfigured layout that complements your lifestyle. But there’s a lot to consider before going full steam ahead with an extension project, so before anything else you should identify your needs. Do you need a bigger kitchen or living space? A separate bedroom or a laundry room? Once you’ve highlighted the key functions you want from your extension, the design process can begin and you can decide what type of extension best suits your requirements, as well as your budget.

Taking into consideration the age and style of your country property is important, so that your new extension will complement the existing structure. Work closely alongside architects and builders with experience on similar projects, and always ask to see examples of

past work or talk to the firm’s previous clients before making your decision. Get it right and you’ll enhance the look and feel of your property, increase its value and create additional living space.

HOW DO I DECIDE WHICH TYPE OF EXTENSION TO BUILD? The most common types of extensions are rear, side-returns, wrap-arounds and two-storey designs. What you can do to your property will largely be determined by the size and location of your house, the extent of your budget, and any planning restrictions.

DO I NEED AN ARCHITECT? While it isn’t essential to bring a professional on board, a designer’s vision will help you make the most of the space you have available.

Their insight on positioning, structural systems and building materials can make a huge > COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

125

A single rear extension is one of the most popular choices, as they tend to be the most straightforward in design

The pitched roof of this bespoke oak-framed extension by Oakwrights creates a vaulted, airy space inside

difference. An architect’s knowledge and experience can prove invaluable when dealing with listed buildings, or ensuring your new design is sympathetic to the period of your property. Having an expert involved can also help when construction begins – particularly if you encounter any unforeseen issues once you’ve broken ground.

DO I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION? Many extension schemes can be achieved under permitted development rights, but anything that’s pushing the boundaries in terms of design is likely to require formal consent from your local authority. Likewise, if you live in a conservation area or area of outstanding natural beauty, you will need planning permission to go ahead. Working with an architect or planning consultant can increase your chances of success at this stage 126

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

The subtle ‘Verdi’ colour selected for this Montpelier Joinery project brings a sense of calm to the space

as they will be aware of local planning policy. It can also help to find similar extensions in your area, as these can serve as a precedent for your project.

success. Be aware, if you’re creating a new shared boundary wall or excavating within 3m of your neighbour’s house, you’ll need to send them a party wall notice.

WHAT ABOUT MY NEIGHBOURS? Once your design concept has been drawn up, it’s courteous to touch base with neighbours and keep them informed. Should you need planning consent, their support could be crucial for the scheme’s

WHAT MATERIALS SHOULD I CONSIDER? Think about whether you want the extension to blend in with the rest of the property, or if you want to make more of a statement. Oakframed extensions suit country-style

R E N O V AT I O N G U I D E

This traditional-style bespoke kitchen design

by Martin Moore, starting at £35,000, sits within a light-filled rear extension thanks to the full-length sliding glass doors and skylight

FEATURE YVETTE MURRELL PHOTOGRAPHS POLLY ELTES, JONATHAN GOOCH

homes aesthetically and can be sustainably sourced, though you will need to hire contractors who specialise in this type of design.

Bricks and stone are also popular if you are looking to match with the existing property, whereas glass designs make a striking statement.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? It vastly depends on the size of the build, though as a guide you could expect a straightforward single rear extension to take around three-tofour months. You will also need to factor in the design and planning stage, as well as lead times for commissioning joinery.

WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF DIFFERENT EXTENSIONS? Rear extensions are a good option if you have enough garden space to spread into and are popular for those looking to create an openplan living space. Depending on

how they are constructed, you can lose a lot of light in the middle rooms of your house.

Side-return extensions are commonly seen on terraces or semi-detached houses, as they can make use of the unused side passage alongside the property.

They are generally small projects so don’t cost as much as other types.

A wraparound extension adds space to both the rear and sides of your property, so can substantially increase the square footage to your home. By their nature, these are extensive, costly, projects that create a lot of disruption.

Two-storey extensions provide you with more space overall,

Sourcebook

allowing you to add another bedroom or bathroom upstairs, as well as more space on the ground floor. However, they will require full planning permission, which can be difficult to obtain if the design drastically changes the view or impacts neighbours.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST? As a guide, you should set aside between £1,100 and £1,300sq m for small, single-storey schemes, and between £1,300 and £1,500sq m for two-storey extensions. Allow at least £2,500sq m for large-scale projects or those featuring high-spec materials. It’s also a sensible idea to ring-fence a 10% contingency fund.

Our pick of extensions experts

For bespoke oak-framed buildings Oakwrights, oakwrights.co.uk n For seamless organic structures Prime Oak, primeoak.co.uk n For best of British Julius Bahn, juliusbahn.co.uk n For premium timber designs and bifolding doors Montpelier Joinery, montpelierjoinery.com n For more oak-framed designs Border Oak, borderoak.com n

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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FIRE & FROST

Flaming red and gold stems contrast spectacularly with carpets of frosty snowdrops in Jackie and John Copping’s cottage garden in Essex

ESSEX GARDEN

Sunrise over the garden in winter, with silver birch trees and flowering Viburnum bodnantense COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

129

Wooden sleepers mark a curving grassy path flanked by snowdrops, hellebores and red dogwood winter stems

T

AT HOME WITH. ..

Owners John and Jackie Copping, a retired counsellor and textile artist.

House Longyard Cottage, dating from the 1740s, in Nazeing, Essex.

Features A large garden with broad lawns shaded in summer by willows, birches and beeches, and home to countless naturalised snowdrops in winter. The borders provide colour every season.

Soil Clay sub-soil, but having been worked over a few centuries, now a neutral loam.

Aspect Front garden faces east.

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

he first encounter with John and Jackie Copping’s garden presents a series of beckoning paths that wander idly through woodland, past borders, to linger in shady retreats or sunlit spaces. ‘I like things to flow — after all, there’s no such thing as a straight line in nature,’ says Jackie.

Her concept is based on the idea of a journey, which is depicted through the use of paths, some of which are clear, while others are more obscure. ‘I wanted the garden to be meaningful — everything has a deeper connection,’ she explains. Beneath a great willow lies a grass spiral cut into the turf in ever-decreasing circles. ‘Following the path, without needing to think where you are going, provides an opportunity for thoughts to emerge,’ she explains, ‘and, on reaching the touchstone in the middle, you can stop and reflect.’

While the paths, created from gravel, mown grass, bark, wood or stepping stones, form the garden’s structure, it is the planted beds and layout that create points of interest along the way.

Twenty-five years since the couple moved in, little of the original planting survives save an old apple tree, several birches and willows in the front garden. Today, it is John and Jackie’s seven grandchildren who frequent the garden, each new birth celebrated with the planting of a Betula albosinensis ‘Fascination’, creating a small spinney near the driveway.

The garden started to take shape when John meticulously shaved away the soil around the sides of the house to create gentle, sloping paths in place of pre-existing steps. ‘We wanted to create a smooth, unbroken transition from one area to another,’ she says.

Once the paths were laid, the borders fell into place as part of the journey through the garden. Each one has evolved according >

ESSEX GARDEN

THE BRICK ❝ FOLLY IS OPEN TO

THE ELEMENTS, YET PROTECTED FROM THE WIND. IT WAS INTENDED AS A PEACEFUL PLACE TO SIT QUIETLY, AND STIRS THE SENSES

❞

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A sunlit winter garden with silver birch trees, box balls and naturalised snowdrops surrounding a lawn with decorative spiral design

to its conditions — shady, sunny, dry or wet. In winter, there are carpets of snowdrops naturalised in the lawns, while the borders are filled with coloured stems, hellebores, tiny reticulata irises and fragrant plants — witch hazels, viburnums and winter jasmine.

‘The strength of this garden in winter is its structure,’ she adds.

Jackie’s skill as a textile artist manifests in the clever use of colours and textures to create dynamic planting schemes in which individual plants come to the fore through the seasons. In spring, the garden becomes increasingly enclosed as leaves unfurl on limes, blackthorn, parrotia, willow and beech. Meanwhile, the woodland fills out with forget-me-nots, cow parsley and buttercups.

‘I love the relaxed looseness of the primroses and long grasses, although John would prefer more control.’ Forget-me-nots are a staple, filling bare gaps throughout the year. ‘They’re happy, undemanding plants that then make great compost,’ she says.

Jackie is especially drawn to the intense colour of plants. Summer heralds a succession of oriental poppies, ‘Annabelle’ hydrangeas, hardy geraniums, verbenas, alchemilla and heleniums. Then, come winter, it is the coppery red flowers of witch hazel ‘Diane’, flaming stems of Cornus ‘Midwinter Fire’ or rich pink clusters on Viburnum bodnantense that stand out on the dullest day. However, the true stars of the show are the snowdrops that flower in the lawns.

The first snowdrops came from a neighbour. ‘Her garden was a mass of snowdrops, and she told us to help ourselves, so we planted them “in the green” in the front garden,’ says Jackie. Disappointingly, squirrels ate all but one, so the next year snowdrops were planted in the back garden where they readily established, spreading year > 132

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

CH&I loves...

GROWING SNOWDROPS • Available in single or double flowers, every one of 1,500+ named cultivars has distinctive markings in green or yellow on the inner or outer petals.

• Try Galanthus G. ‘S. Arnott’ which has a great scent, multiplies quickly and is relatively disease resistant; or Galanthus ‘Straffan’ that bears two flowers per bulb.

• Buy them in the green – they establish better, and tend not to be scrubbed up by squirrels.

• Leaving the bulbs until the foliage has completely died down allows them to absorb nutrients and replenish for the next year.

• To avoid the risk of virus infection, only buy or swap bulbs from trusted sources.

• Plant twice as deep as the bulb is long, and 5cm apart in well-drained soil with added grit and organic matter such as rotted leaf mould.

• Snowdrops won’t thrive beneath evergreens, so plant in light, sheltered positions with deciduous plants.

• Good planting companions include winter aconites, Crocus sieberi, Cyclamen coum, species hellebores, and reticulata irises.

ESSEX GARDEN

❝A neighbour’s garden was

a mass of snowdrops, and she told us to help ourselves. Symbolising hope and rebirth, they are especially pertinent right now

❞

Flanking a wooden deck is Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’, dogwood, a deciduous shrub that loses its leaves in winter to reveal brilliant, flame coloured stems

A frosty country garden with a rustic wooden dining set in front of a summerhouse and bed planted with brilliant red winter stems of dogwood

ON OUR DOORSTEP. . .

Visit... Silver Birches, Quendon Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1LG For opening times see ngs.org.uk

Go for a meal at... ‘King Harold’s Head in Nazeing, which serves fresh, home-cooked food (newkingharoldshead.co.uk).’

Shop atÉ Matthew’s Plants, Hadley Nurseries, Roydon, is a pleasure to visit with very knowledgeable staff (matthewsplants.co.uk).’

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on year. ‘Symbolising hope and rebirth, snowdrops are especially pertinent in light of the coronavirus epidemic’, says Jackie.

Being at the summit of a hill, the garden is windy, but Jackie finds the sound and sight of wind moving trees exhilarating.

‘I particularly love to see and hear the wind rustling the Miscanthus giganteus — it has a majestic feel as it bends and sways,’ says Jackie. Cutting this towering ornamental grass back each winter is a labour of love, but seeing the stripped, golden stems shining in a wintry sun more than compensates. Growing well over two metres tall, the line of Miscanthus giganteus separates the patio area from the driveway, forming a dense leafy screen in summer.

Originally the patio was shaded by one of two centenarian walnut trees. ‘Then, without warning, one of them fell down in front of my eyes,’ explains Jackie. The walnut lives on as slices of trunk, incorporated into paths around the garden, or tucked away as havens for insects. Inevitably, they are also home to slugs and snails, a constant challenge. ‘And the occasional deer takes the heads off whatever they fancy, but it’s such a privilege to see them in the garden,’ she adds. A compost heap is tucked away in a shady corner, generating as much as they need to regularly mulch the borders.

Over the years, Jackie and John have absorbed influence from many people and their gardens, but she especially recalls the Garden of Cosmic Speculation created by Charles Jencks in Scotland. ‘It felt like our own garden, but on a much larger scale, and reminded me not to lose sight of our concept.’

John and Jackie plant to open the garden in aid of the National Garden Scheme on Valentine’s Day. Visit ngs.org.uk

ESSEX GARDEN

1

2

3

Jackie and John’s winter marvels

1 Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple Stem’, sweet box, an evergreen shrub.

2 Iris reticulata ‘Katharine Hodgkin’ is a distinctive hybrid. Flowers from January.

3 Viburnum bodnantense, a deciduous shrub bearing pink flowers from January.

4 Jasminum nudiflorum, winter jasmine, a fragrant shrub that flowers in midwinter.

5 Galanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus ‘Flore Pleno’, a double snowdrop, flowering from February.

6 Helleborus ericsmithii, hellebore, an evergreen with pink flowers, from February.

7 Bergenia cordifolia, elephants ears, spikes of pink flowers from February.

FEATURE AND PHOTOGRAPHS NICOLA STOCKEN

4

6

8 Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’, dogwood, with flame-coloured stems.

5

7

8

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Live Life Well

HEALTH, HAPPINESS, FASHION, TRAVEL, PETS, PASTIMES AND OTHER THINGS TO MAKE LIFE LOVELY

THINGS TO LEARN, SEE & DO Start… journalling; it’s been shown to improve health. Not sure where to start? Peruse My Creative Writing Journal (£9.99, Cico Books).

Forage for… wild garlic. These green leaves grow in abundance from late winter to the end of spring.

Add the leaves and flowers to soups and sauces or whizz into a pesto.

Sheepskin chair, £1,100; side table, £245; Pearl basket, £95; Montrose blanket, £150; Audley tapered pendant light, £195; vase, £20; candle, £20, all The White Company

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FEATURE JACKY PARKER

Learn to… bake bread confidently with an introductory course taught by French baker and chef Richard Bertinet in Bath. 2 or 6 Feb, £215, thebertinetkitchen.com

LIVE LIFE WELL

HOME COMFORTS Luxury loungewear continues to be top of our wish list. Cornish brand Celtic and Co has plenty of stylish and cosy buys to choose from. Rivalling cashmere, this Geelong wool roll-neck will keep you snug. Pair with super-soft, merino lounge pants and fluffy slipper boots.

That’s a wrap Say goodbye to cling film and keep food fresh with these new beeswax wraps from Emma Bridgewater and The Beeswax Wrap Company. This collaboration brings you two designs – Emma’s signature Black Toast lettering and a new Bees and Butterflies print.

Handmade from locally sourced British beeswax, organic jojoba oil and pine resin, these wraps are plastic-free, eco-friendly and reusable. From £20 for a pack of three, Emma Bridgewater

SOUND SLEEP The innovative EcoMattress – with a design that is kinder to the environment – is a first for John Lewis & Partners. With a filling made from recycled fibres and plastic bottles, it’s not only vegan-friendly, but is fully recyclable, too. In addition to its sustainability credentials, it offers supreme comfort and support.

Available in a choice of medium and firm tensions. From £599 for a double, John Lewis & Partners

Geelong slouch roll-neck, £114; Merino lounge pants, £85; Celt house boots, £145; Yeti rug, £95; Lambs wool throw, £125, all Celtic and Co

3 steps to… revive

your houseplants

INCREASE LIGHT It’s likely your plants have been deprived of sunlight over the winter. As well as finding a sunnier spot for them, try adding a lightcoloured gravel to the surface of the soil to reflect light upwards.

RE-POT Plants typically need to be re-potted every 12-18 months, or sooner if your plant has outgrown its pot.

BOOST HUMIDITY Central heating can cause a really dry environment for plants. As well as misting the leaves, create a moisture tray by filling a plate with small pebbles and water and placing your plant on top. This will create a humid area around your plant.

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR If you suffer from asthma or allergies it can be difficult to decipher which home products might trigger a reaction. Breatheasy paints from Crown have been specially formulated with allergy and asthma sufferers in mind. Available in matt, silk and mid-sheen finishes, from £14 for 2.5ltr, Crown COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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LIVE LIFE WELL

3 of the best…

plug-in diffusers To help reduce stress, lift your mood and achieve better sleep LI GHT S HOW Choose how long the scent diffuses for with different timed settings. Plus, it also features seven colour settings – choose just one or cycle slowly through them all.

Ultrasonic diffuser, £50, John Lewis & Partners C LEAN AESTH ETI C This best-seller is beautifully made from ceramic with a smart wooden base. Use with your favourite White Company fragrance and the aroma will fill your home in minutes. £65, The White Company

TIMEPIECE

PETS’ CORNER Treat your four-legged friend to a luxury floor cushion that feels as soft and cosy as wool, yet is made entirely from recycled plastic bottles – even the filling.

Pioneered by Devonbased Weaver Green, this stain- and waterresistant material can be used outside, too, and is machine washable. From £185, Weaver Green 138

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

POP O F COLOU R This diffuser is concealed by a ridged ceramic cover.

Choose from Peach, Grey or Sage Green to blend in with or add an accent colour to your interior.

Electric oil aroma diffuser, £45, Oliver Bonas

COMPOSTABLE DEODORANT Designed to last, this clever little deodorant case from eco-brand Wild is made to be used again and again with compostable, plastic- and aluminium-free refills that can be delivered straight to your door. Pick and mix your favourite scents. Subscription starter pack, from £12, Wild

FEATURE ALICE HUMPHRYS

In a tribute to William Morris’ iconic designs, Danish watch brand Austin Berg has brought to life some of the most beloved motifs with a stunning collection of unisex watches. The company is partnering with the Human Practice Foundation and for every watch sold, Austin Berg will give a child in Asia or Africa at least six months of quality education. From £199 each

LIVE LIFE WELL

Wild swimming is a great way to get back to nature

MY COUNTRY PASSION

Winter sea swimming

FEATURE JACKY PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS TIM GAINEY/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

While swimming in the icy seas of the Scottish Isles, Tamsin Calidas discovered she had untapped inner reserves of strength, courage and resilience I live in the Scottish Hebrides. The landscape is wild with rugged cliffs, mountains and fierce tides as well as an intimacy of view, with rolling hills, freshwater lochs, tiny, white sand coves and native woodlands.

I love the unpredictability of the weather, the light and the incredible wildlife – when you commit to this, daily, it offers itself differently.

Swimming in the winter is the year’s highlight. The experience of water, its contrasts, familiarity and discomforts, intensifies. I suddenly step more closely into my own life.

I love the sea’s teeth. Even in summer the water is testing; it bites and reminds you that you are you.

The water in summer ranges from 8-11 degrees and this drops to 6 degrees in winter, with an icy wind chill that can drop to minus 15 degrees. That intensity of experience

is exhilarating and addictive; it takes you into a wilder, instinctive zone.

I needed to make sense of some very intense and challenging times I had experienced. It’s a longer story, but one day I felt called to the shore.

On the rocks, there was nowhere to hide, no shelter or buffer. That day, my heart lifted as the sea reached forwards, gently calling me. It brought me back, from a place of darkness and into a pivotal moment.

Stepping into the cold water is akin to shedding a skin. There’s a moment when I stand on the shore, the fierce waves barrelling towards me, that I have to commit. It helps me to focus, to recalibrate and take myself into a space where my resilience is infinitely greater than I imagined. It gifts courage, endurance and strength.

As I return to the shore, I feel braver than I did before. After my daily

swim, anything else that happens in my life feels, if not easy, then at least possible. It tests your limits, stretches tolerances and slackens and strengthens a core fibre that quivers through your whole being, like some inner thread being tensioned. Winter swimming takes this to a new level.

It brings you closer to the essence of yourself, your life, and the potential of all that flows from this. It invites you to live more simply, with less stimulus yet in the knowledge you are tapping into an infinitely richer source. It’s not for everyone and yet it calls me home.

Read this...

Discover more about winter sea swimming and how to untap your resilience in Tamsin’s book, I Am An Island by Tamsin Calidas, £16.99, Doubleday COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

139

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LIVE LIFE WELL

LEFT Take your time exploring the five miles of private beaches. BELOW Enjoy the views from Captain’s House

PLAN A TRIP TO:

Osea island

A PRIVATE ISLAND JUST OFF THE ESSEX COAST IS THE PERFECT ESCAPE

FEATURE JO FERNANDEZ-CORUGEDO

W

ith a varied and fascinating history, Osea is an intriguing private island reached by a Roman causeway, which snakes across the muddy estuary from nearby Maldon, providing complete seclusion at high tide. Once a Victorian temperance society for people with alcoholism, in 2000 music producer Nigel Frieda bought the 400-acre estate for £6 million. He brought a new cool to the island as well as A-list guests, from Cara Delevingne to Rihanna, who can arrive in glamorous fashion by helicopter (20 minutes from Battersea) or river taxi. It’s Cosy bedrooms await on the island

featured in several films, from The Third Day to The Woman in Black.

you can take a dip in the heated pool from April to October.

EAST-COAST ELEGANCE

LOCALLY SAUCED

Guests can stay in a range of accommodation, from a grand Edwardian manor house (complete with recording studio) to rustic weatherboard cottages. The Captain’s House is a nine-bedroom, seven-bathroom New England-style beach house. Eclectic interiors also nod to local fishing villages, meaning rustic open beams and wood burning stoves blend with antique four poster beds and roll-top baths.

A large conservatory-style dining room features wicker chairs, potted palms and lush patterned wallpaper and the inviting, lightfilled library/living room has lived-in brown leather sofas, book-lined walls and endless views. Outside,

Although the island is mainly self-catering, chefs can be hired at any time of the year. Pop-up restaurant collaborations include Native and the Borough kitchen, famed for foraged ingredients and game, with tasting menus inspired by the surrounding landscape.

MARITIME MARVEL

Spend time walking among nature and wildlife – including the resident donkeys – and don’t forget to take a trip to Maldon, a charming historic town whose high street is lined with heritage buildings, independent shops and a glut of restaurants.

From £4,000, minimum twonight stay. Osea Island, Maldon CM9 8UH, oseaisland.co.uk

While youÕre there...

CAFE BRAZIL

THE MOOT HALL

JUST THE THING

This sunny slice of South America on Maldon’s high street serves delicious, well-presented tapasstyle specialities, from cassava fries to classic bean stews, in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Book a tour of the former medieval home of Sir Robert D’Arcy, now a wedding venue with a unique 15th-century curved brick staircase, flower bedecked balcony and striking bell tower.

Stock up on presents at this good-looking homeware store selling gifts such as equestrianinspired wine racks, locally made candles and condiment sets for storing Maldon’s famous salt.

• For more inspirational travel ideas visit thecaribou.com COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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M A R K E T P L AC E SOFAS

Great British Sofas Direct from the manufacturer

www.sofasofa.co.uk

sofasofa

01495244226

BEDDING

GREAT BRITISH HANDMADE LEATHER SOFAS DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

WINTER SALE - NOW ON Aspen 3 seater sofa £1299

Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co. Hand made in Norfolk. Guaranteed to last a lifetime.

A first and second generation family company. All our beds are lovingly hand crafted to order, on the Sandringham Estate and come with a guarantee to last a lifetime.

Call now for a brochure or visit

01443 771222 www.thomaslloyd.com

01485 542516 view our full range at

www.wroughtironandbrassbed.co.uk

To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@timeinc.com

M A R K E T P L AC E BATHROOMS

FLOORING

01509 234000- www.floorsofstone.com enquiries@floorsofstone.com

AN ALBION BATH

Copo bath pictured

TAKES A LITTLE LONGER

BEDS & BEDDING

Stay warmer in an Albion bath as our Iso Enamel material will keep your water hotter for longer and at less than half the weight of cast iron, an Albion bath is easier to locate and install.

With a range of free standing baths from 1200mm 2000mm long, we’ve got all sizes of bathroom covered.

Made by hand in our Essex factory, all Albion baths are manufactured to order so in both ways, an Albion bath takes a little longer.

Request your brochure of our range of over 50 free standing bath

www.theheadboardworkshop.co.uk

tubs, taps and sanitaryware items.

or call us on 01291 628216 Headboards & Beds | Ottomans & Stools | Sofa Beds & Chairs

01255 831605 albionbathco.com

ALBION BAT H C O M PA N Y HAND MADE IN ENGLAND

To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@timeinc.com

M A R K E T P L AC E KITCHENS

THE ELECTRIC RANGE

MODERN EFFICIENCY, CLASSIC GOOD LOOKS.

NOW AVAILABLE IN MARINE BLUE

With six widths available and a choice of great colours we’re confident we have just the right EVERHOT for you.

Sizzling Smokey Wood kitchen from

01453 890018 www.everhot.co.uk

A game changer amongst smart taps Simply better - BLANCO’s new EVOL-S Pro Hot and Filter tap is unique, delivering both boiling filtered and cold filtered water in a measured amount of your choosing, all in an impressive design A game changer in the exciting smart tap market for your

This stunning new Smokey Wood kitchen scheme from Keller – www.kellerkitchens.com has been designed to ooze beautiful rustic charm in the heart of your home. The rough veneer, with smoked wood stain, is luxurious and adds a modern touch to this country style kitchen; while top quality manufacturing techniques make for long life and smooth operation.

For further information, please visit www.kellerkitchens.com or email Tim Spann at tspann@kellerkitchens.com

modern eco-friendly, super-hygienic kitchen is BLANCO’s new easy to use, 4-in-1 water-saving boiling water tap, the EVOL-S Pro Hot and Filter. Boasting the revolutionary EVOL rotary dial, allowing you to set precisely the amount of filtered boiling or filtered cold water you choose. The Pro Hot and Filter 4-in1 tap joins the EVOL-S family alongside the 3-in-1 Pro Filter and the original EVOL-S Volume mixer with pull-out spray.

BLANCO’s SELECT II integrated storage and waste organisation systems are ideal for use in combination with the EVOL-S Pro taps.

For further information on BLANCO UK, please call 01923 635 200 or visit www.blanco.co.uk

FURNITURE

Order your free fabric samples at

thefootstoolworkshop.co.uk 01443 831 981

Beautiful. Practical. Customisable.

To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@timeinc.com

F U L LY E S C O RT E D T O U R S HOLIDAY HAPPINESS. GUAR ANTEED Dreaming of a holiday in 2021? With industryleading health and safety practices, flexible booking options and our ‘happiness guarantee’, we will ensure you have an unforgettable holiday without compromise.

• Exceptional experiences, with no compromises If you’re not completely happy by day two, we’ll bring you home with a full refund • Industry-leading health and safety practices to keep you safe All our UK and European tours in 2021 on sale are small groups, with a maximum of 25 guests and social distancing in place • Free to change your mind with fully flexible booking Change your booking for free up to 45 days before travel

Lake Como, St Moritz & the Bernina Express

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Take a lake cruise to beautiful Bellagio on Lake Como, and visit the delightful Villa del Balbianello and its inspirational gardens Enjoy a full-day visit to the chic resort of St Moritz, including a journey on the Bernina Express Follow in the footsteps of the ‘Grand Tour’ with a visit to Lake Maggiore and the town of Stresa Visit Lugano, an elegant Swiss lakeside town with Italian influences Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers Seven nights in a choice of well-located three and four-star accommodation, with breakfast and dinner* The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

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Lake Maggiore, Orta & the Matterhorn

Departures from April to October 2021 8 days from only £789pp

Enjoy a full day exploring beautiful Lake Garda Explore Venice, the medieval world’s richest city, on a tour with a local guide – choose between the ‘classic’ and ‘undiscovered’ tours Walk into history among the Roman ruins of Verona, guided by a local expert – choose between the ‘classic’ and ‘undiscovered’ tours Marvel at the breathtaking alpine scenery of the Dolomites on a full-day tour Visit a local vineyard, with a guided tour of the cellars and wine tasting Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers Seven nights in a choice of three-star to four-star superior accommodation, with breakfast and dinner The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

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Lake Garda, Venice & Verona

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Departures from April to October 2021 8 days from only £889pp

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Departures from May to October 2021 8 days from only £1,059pp

Cruise Lake Maggiore’s enchanting Borromean Islands, with a guided tour of the Baroque palace on Isola Bella Travel through the Simplon Pass to Zermatt and the Matterhorn Visit picture-perfect Lake Como Enjoy a full-day tour visiting Cannobio and Locarno, with a journey on the Centovalli railway Tour one of Italy’s most exquisite stretches of water, Lake Orta, and its medieval village of Orta San Giulio Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers Seven nights in four-star superior or four-star accommodation, with breakfast and dinner The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

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To book or request a brochure, call 01283 523454 or visit cohriviera.co.uk Terms and conditions: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd. ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Country Homes & Interiors, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print. See website for full details. *Stays at the Grand Hotel Menaggio are on a bed-and-breakfast basis, with dining options available.

M Y FA V O U R I T E V I E W

The beauty of the Himalayas has stayed with Cerys

MY FAVOURITE VIEW...

Everest and the Khumbu Glacier, Nepal Given my birthplace, the obvious view to choose would be in Wales, and there are so many that I love.

But, actually, there’s a view that I will remember for the rest of my life – and it’s much further away, in Nepal.

I was 50 in April 2018 and I decided to mark the event with an unforgettable trip, trekking through the Himalayas to Everest base camp.

We hiked over 11 days, with the weather and landscape changing each step of the way. You’re there to see Everest – this iconic mountain whose stories we have all enjoyed – but you’re chasing a glimpse of it. Each day we’d be told by guides and fellow walkers, ‘Today is the day you might see Everest.’ There would be a blizzard of snow and wind, we’d get to the viewing point, and we’d have missed it again.

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

The day of my birthday, we walked out of the village we’d been staying in and there it was – Everest, this stunning peak with its iconic double summit. There’s a romance about going to the highest place on earth and I felt such a buzz when we first recognised it. The Himalayas are so huge – these thousand metre peaks filling a whole country – and Everest is the king and queen of places. The locals call it the Goddess Mountain, and every second in its vicinity you feel in awe of nature and the planet.

It was an experience I wanted to share with my family, and my husband and our two children came on the trip with me. In today’s world we can spend so much solitary time plugged into technology, and there’s little physical time when we are all present. In the Himalayas,

we were going through this experience together. The sense of being alive was so tangible.

There was a second view on the trip that was just as magical. At this point there’s no greenery; we’d left the rhododendrons and junipers behind, and were clambering across huge boulders. I looked up to see caves of incredible clear blue and water tinkling – we were walking up an ice flow to the Khumbu Glacier.

The size and scale and blueness of it; the solitariness… And the sounds! In nature, your mind has space to listen and respond to sound. There couldn’t be any more beautiful music.

Listen to Cerys Matthews’ new poetry album, ‘We Come From the Sun’, featuring Hidden Orchestra and 10 Poets (Decca Records).

FEATURE ANDRÉA CHILDS PHOTOGRAPH ALAMY

The majesty of Everest and the Khumbu Glacier inspired musician Cerys Matthews during her memorable birthday expedition

ALDERLEY EDGE ESHER

tomhowley.co.uk

call 0161 848 1200 for a free brochure

ALTRINCHAM

BRENTWOOD

GUILDFORD

BEACONSFIELD

HARROGATE

ISLINGTON

BRISTOL

LEAMINGTON SPA

CAMBRIDGE LONDON W1

CHELSEA

CHELTENHAM

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

BRITISH DESIGN & CRAFTSMANSHIP

EDINBURGH

WINCHESTER