EST. 1920
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Thoughtful gifts they’ll love forever
AT
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CHRISTMAS MADE SIMPLE
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100 YEARS
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THE HOME OF GOOD IDEAS FOR 100 YEARS
The best… SOFAS, TVS, FAMILY GAMING
plus 20 UNDER £20
The easiest festive feast
Stylish ways with FRESH FOLIAGE
Joyful spaces full of style & sparkle
EDITOR’S LETTER
Welcome Vanessa
STYLING GEMMA GEAR PHOTOGRAPH JOANNA HENDERSON Gift wrap and ribbon, from a selection at Cox & Cox
Vanessa Richmond, Editor
Ma Richmond and I are preparing for a different kind of Christmas: fewer-butbetter gifts; all homemade food; just one tin of Quality Street…maybe. Usually, we get through a couple in the run up and I have to hide one for Christmas Eve in the shed. But you get the gist – less excessive, more meaningful. As I write, there is still a lot of uncertainty about what the rules will be, but whether we see the fam in the flesh or on screen, the Santa-based excitement of the littlest Richmonds will be as joyous as ever: ‘He’s beeeeen!!!’. Wrapping up Ideal Home’s centenary year seems an appropriate time to tell you that my time as Editor is also coming to a close. I’ve been at IH for 14 years, five of them in my dream job as Editor, but I’m ready for a change. Next month, I’ll be handing over to the new incumbent, who will kick off 2021 in style!
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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DECEMBER 2020
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24 72 The big reveal Although
What’s new 9
Set the scene for… A simpler Christmas 11 The style editor News from our favourite shops 18 The shortlist Trend-proof sofas 21 Ideal vs Great Deal Rustic designs to spruce up your hallway
24 Past meets present
Period style with all the practicality of modern living 51 Escape to the country A rustic Dutch farmhouse ON
40 Dress your home with
84 101
foliage A wholesome, budgetfriendly way to decorate The colour edit Blush pink Jewel purpose Bring drama and decadence to your scheme Interior design advice Create a welcoming guest room Easy style updates Smart tricks and clever buys
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Style & décor
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Real homes
SPOT THE LOGO FOR EASY SWAPS AND WAYS TO ENJOY A MORE SUSTAINABLE HOME AND LIFESTYLE
part of a co-operative, this flat needed a lot of work 90 Simply sophisticated Muted colour choices bring calmness
DECEMBER 2020 | IDEALHOME.CO.UK
Before & after 99 Project news Kitchen and bathroom update
114 ‘It’s great for gatherings’
Extending gave this couple an open-plan living space 120 ‘We worked with its natural character’ Thoughtful choices have paid off in this kitchen 126 ‘It’s a little slice of luxury!’ A hotel-worthy bathroom 133 ‘We added to an existing extension’ This couple increased the footprint while modernising the design
Simple solutions 138 Genius problem solvers
for a smooth-running life The latest home innovations 140 Your living room, sorted Tips for tidying up 143 Top TVs to gather around Full of smart features 145 Buy the best games console Festive fun for all the family
CONTENTS
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40 TO FIND ALL THE STOCKISTS IN THIS ISSUE TURN TO PAGE 168 151 For cocktail queens
Simple pleasures
These pressies are sure to get the party started
152 Time to cook
A Christmas feast
Regulars Gift edit 14 Meaningful presents
3 Editor’s letter 6 100 years of Ideal Home
Extra-special bespoke buys 16 Budget but brilliant Our favourites under £20 147 For home bakers Gadgets to help them win star baker 149 For coffee lovers All they need to become an at-home barista
Visit facebook. com/ideal home.co.uk
Follow us at twitter.com/ idealhome
We’ve been delving into the archives to find out what we did at Christmas during the past century 22 Subscribe to Ideal Home 170 Style throwback Our style editor recreates a festive tablescape from 1960
See our latest snaps @idealhomeuk
Subscribe!
Be inspired at pinterest.com/ idealhomemag
Sign up to our newsletter at idealhome.co.uk
A subscription makes a great gift or a lovely treat for yourself from just £6 for six issues! Visit idealhome.co.uk/IH20DEC
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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THE HOME OF GOOD IDEAS
100 YEARS OF DECEMBER ISSUES Executive Editor Heather Young and Chief Sub-Editor Sarah Farley pick their Christmas highlights…
In 1960 we were… GOING TO TOWN ON TABLE SETTING Would you go pink-with-blue baubles or one huge red bauble plus carnations? Or white twigs and gold stars? Such a world of tablescaping choices to enjoy.
In 1989 we were… MASTERING KNIFE SKILLS At Ideal Home we’re proud to combine the practical with the inspirational, and what’s more practical than how to carve the turkey? We hope this page was torn out and kept, and is now spotted with gravy stains.
In 1954 we were… HANDING ROUND THE SWEETIE TIN Quality Street, invented in 1936, were the first chocs to be individually wrapped – Harold Mackintosh chose shiny, rustly papers to make opening the tin an exciting experience for the whole family. What can we say? It worked. In 1977 we were… PLANNING A FAMILIAR FEAST The traditional Big Day meal hasn’t changed much in 43 years. Bronzed bird, baconwrapped chipolatas, sprouts (too many? not enough) – all ticked. Cranberry sauce was fairly new to the UK in 1977; we have Delia Smith to thank for making it an essential.
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In 2011 we were… COSY ON THE SOFA It’s a warm, welcoming look for a family living room that we still love a decade later. Grey walls are a favourite and that raspberry sofa adds a colour pop that’s festive, but more liveable year-round than red.
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In 2000 we were… MAKING IT SNOW, SNOW, SNOW
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100 YEARS
As Christmas in magazine-land generally happens in July and August, we hired a snow machine to create an authentically frosty feel when we photographed this ‘Decorate your garden’ feature 20 years ago. You’d never know it was the middle of summer!
In 1954 we were… GETTING FESTIVE ON THE COVER There’s no missing this ‘Christmas Number’, with bells and baubles down the sides. Decorating for the festive season didn’t really take off in Ideal Home until the 1950s, but we think we’ve made up for it since then…
In 2010 we were… GETTING OUR BAUBLES OUT It’s still a strong tree look – smallest at the top, largest at the bottom – and at the end of the noughties we were all about the single colour. Not sure how the presents are going to fit underneath, though.
In 1971 we were… SHOPPING BY MAIL ORDER Yes, really. All these ‘Presents for Trendies’ are marked with the postage cost. We’re torn between the ‘psychedelic’ combs from Dickins & Jones (40p each, postage 3p) and the canvas holdalls from Heal’s (from £2.55 for a small one, postage 15p).
In 1954 we were… MAKING OUR OWN ENTERTAINMENT What did we do before Christmas telly? This. On the right we have our choice of card tables, one with a posh velveteen surface; top left, a new game called Scrabble. Sounds complicated. And to complete your games evening, card-suit shaped cushions for your chairs and indispensable matchbox holders.
In 1954 we were… THRILLED TO BE GIVEN A COOKER ‘Wouldn’t you be proud and happy if your “Father Christmas” gave you a gas cooker this Christmas?’ This Warwick model has five burners and a four-hour timer, which should be long enough to boil the sprouts. IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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IMPRINT COLLECTION WWW.I-LIV.CO.UK
WHAT’S NEW
Set the scene for...
A SIMPLER CHRISTMAS
FEATURE MICHELA COLLING
The festivities might be scaled-down this year, but they can still be special – and sophisticated. Make some memories with a magical tablescape set with beautiful linens, twinkling candlelight and foraged foliage for a fresh and natural look.
WHERE TO BUY Heddon brass candlesticks, from £40 each; Emily linen tablecloth, from £95; Emily linen napkins, £39 for six; Somerton rectangular basket, £51; Ella tumblers, £42 for six, all Neptune
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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WHAT’S NEW
We’re in love!
MATALAN’S CHRISTMAS CROCKERY With a nostalgic nod to Christmas past, the Robin tableware collection gives us all the cosy, festive feels. The red, white and green design is a classic that can make an appearance year after year. With prices from £3 each, you can collect a full set or update a white dinner service with side plates or bowls.
The STYLE EDITOR
Robin dinner plates, £3.50 each; side plates, £3 each; bowls, £3.50 each; mugs, £3 each; wine glass, £4; tumbler, £3.50, all Matalan
Michela Colling, Ideal Home’s tastemaker-in-chief, shares her top news from the high street
Customised lamps at Pooky The colour-loving lighting expert has found another way to illuminate its lamps. Any of the wooden bases can be painted in 20 of Little Greene’s paint colours. Play with Pooky’s patterned shades, clash with a complementary colour or keep it simple with a tonal match. Clockwise, from top left, Moonshine floor lamp, £195, in Blue Verditer, from £23; Saffron dupion silk shade, £95; Lillee base, £63, in Yellow Pink, from £23; Smog gathered linen shade, £53; Lisa base, £69, in Green Jewel Beetle, from £23; Ikat empire shade, £63; Draycott base, £121, in Blush, from £23; Ruby Candy Stripe empire shade, £48, all Pooky
ONE FOR YOUR WISHLIST This is our kind of page turner – a new coffee table book filled with advice on decorating with eco-conscious paints and fabrics and how to include reclaimed or renewable materials in your home. This is followed up with inspiring interiors, rich colour combinations and eclectic room schemes that prove whether old or new, a sustainable home can be beautiful. Home for the Soul by Sara Bird and Dan Duchars of The Contented Nest (£19.99, Ryland Peters & Small). IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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WHAT’S NEW
POWER PATTERNS British textile brand Warner House started life 150 years ago, but it’s back on our radar with a big relaunch. Unashamedly bold and decorative when it comes to pattern, it has raided its huge archive for inspiration. As well as fabrics and wallpapers, the prints are available on upholstery, made-to-measure window dressings, cushions and lampshades, so you can go for a totally co-ordinated look or pick stand alone pieces.
Headboard in Chinese Garden in Ochre, £55m; border in Downham in Russet, £65m; green cushion in Downham in Juniper, £65m, all Warner House
BRILLIANT OR BONKERS? THE SYMPHONY TREE AT JOHN LEWIS We thought we’d seen it all when it comes to artificial Christmas trees: black trees, upside down ones and pop-up versions, but the latest innovation is quite literally all singing and dancing! The Symphony tree is pre-programmed with seven Christmas tunes and rainbow lights that will put on a show in time to the music. £850, John Lewis & Partners.
Wallpapers (from left) Balmoral in Charcoal, £95 a roll; Herons in Ivory, £80 a roll; both Warner House
We keep seeing...
Sustainable swaps These investment pieces can be re-used to spark joy beyond the Big Day ON
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ECO GREETINGS
FEEL-GOOD CRACKERS
Send these nature-friendly cards made with paper embedded with seeds. The recipient can plant them in the spring and watch native wildflowers bloom. Also, 5p per card supports the British Beekeeping Association. Plantable bauble on string Christmas cards, £15 for four, Green Planet Paper
RE-USABLE WRAPS
With each plastic-free cracker, £2 is donated to a different charity, from clearing plastic from UK shores, to supporting frontline workers. With jokes written by celebrities, will that make them less eye-roll inducing? Christmas crackers, £24.95 for six, Advent of Change
The traditional Japanese wrapping method furoshiki adds even more joy to giving. Pass on the cotton block-printed cloths or re-use them around the home. Furoshiki wrapping cloths, £15 for two, Toast. For more ideas, read Zero waste: gift wrap by Christine Leech (£7.67, David & Charles)
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farrow-ball.com
farrow-ball.com/modern-emulsion/claims
You know we used that lovely Farrow & Ball paint Yeah
And it’s wipeable Yep So mud and stuff isn’t really a problem anymore True So there’s kinda no reason not to get a
MODERN EMULSION R E M A R K A B LY U N M A R K A B L E
★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★
MOG SHOT Artist Annabelle Pearl will capture the likeness of a beloved cat. Bespoke pet portrait, from £90, Cheshire & Wain
PLANT BUDDY Send a surprise leafy delivery. A three to twelve month subscription, from £60 for three months, Leaf Envy
PET OBSESSED Everything you need for a doggy day spa made from natural ingredients. Ultimate Dog pamper kit, £40, Norfolk Natural Living
GREAT GIFTS
that mean much more MODERN TERRARIUM Made from recycled glass, it’ll bring the outside in. Canopy closed garden, £40, LSA International
ON
Presents that are personalised, thoughtful or bespoke to bring joy beyond the big day
GARDENER’S GIFT Supporting knees while protecting our waterways. Nymans Foliage gardening kneeler, £20, National Trust Shop
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BACK TO NATURE Sponsor a real piece of English countryside to be returned to the wild, from £30 for 9sq m area, Heal
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LOVE LETTERS Re discover the art of letter writing. Monogrammed Potagerie personalised notecard set, £24 for 15, The Chateau
BOX OF DELIGHTS Choose from curated boxes or create a bespoke set. Early Night boxed gift, £50, Leith & Gray
★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★
TREASURED MAP Capture their special spot in colourful wall art. Personalised Risograph couples map print, from £45, Notonthehighstreet.com
UP-SPEC TECH Add a personalised engraving. TheLISL London Engraved Apple watch strap, £49.99, Amazon Handmade
CONSCIOUS CARRIER Stamp the re usable bag with any name. Personalised sustainable lunch bag, £30, Global Wakecup at Notonthehighstreet.com
SPREAD THE WORD They can wear, frame or drape this heart-felt reminder. We’ll Meet Once More silk scarf, £75, Liberty
BESPOKE LIBRARY The ideal books will be matched to suit your reader’s taste, from £39.99 for a three month subscription, The Willoughby Book Club
ARTISAN FINISH Designs by artists with learning disabilities are turned into lifestyle treats. Handmade chocolate, £5.25, Arthouse Unlimited
ONE POT WONDER For the family favourites, a gift that keeps on giving. Terra.Cotto cast iron casserole pot, £145, Really Well Made
CULTURE LOVER Let art lovers enjoy 240 museums, galleries and historic houses across the UK for free. National Art Pass, from £45, Art Fund
ON
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FUTURE HEIRLOOM A timeless design for serving Sunday lunch in style. Garden Vine platter, £125, Ralph Lauren X Burleigh
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★
LIST LOVERS Just the thing for staying organised while not in the office. Working from Home daily planner desk pad, £6, Martha Brook
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WAKE UP CALL Simple, stylish and essential for never running late again. Odette square alarm clock, £19, Made
GREAT GIFTS
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TRAVEL BUDDY Encourage a loved one to ditch single use plastics. Green stainless steel water bottle, £10, Argos
SUSTAINABLE STATIONERY Plant and watch them grow into herbs or flowers. Sprout pencils Mindful Thought edition, £9.95, Sprout
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HELLO BIRDIE! Hang from a branch and watch new residents come flocking. Woven birdhouse, £20, Marie Curie
DECEMBER 2020 | IDEALHOME.CO.UK
under £20 Budget-friendly buys that will still surprise and delight
PAW PRINTS Serve up your four legged friend’s Christmas dinner in a fancy new dish. Sophie Conran pet bowl, £20, Portmeirion
HOT STUFF A stylish solution for keen cooks to rest steaming pots and pans. Pink rainbow trivet, £16.95, Rose & Grey
FIRM FAVOURITE This precious stone face massager will also look pretty on a dressing table. Jade roller, £9.99, Amazon.co.uk
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT
★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★ GIFT EDIT ★
WELL GROOMED Help the man in your life keep his ’tache trimmed. Gentlemen’s Hardware beard survival kit, £20, Wild and Wolf
BEER GARDEN A novel stocking filler for keen gardeners and ale drinkers. Copper shovel bottle opener, £10, John Lewis & Partners
GORGEOUS GLAZE Everyone needs a favourite mug in a warming winter shade. Muggins mug in Blackberry Crumble, £12, Loaf
CREATIVE TOUCH Treat a budding artist or upcycling enthusiast. Detail brushes, £14.95, Annie Sloan
COOKIE MONSTER The perfect pairing with your favourite hot drink on Christmas morning. Chocolate chip and orange biscuits, £8, Whittard of Chelsea
PUPPY LOVE Ensure Santa doesn’t forget your furry friends. Personalised dog stocking, £18, Owl and Otter at Etsy
LOOSE LEAF Start the day with a quality brew, complete with pretty storage tin. Liberty Heritage English Breakfast tea, £8.95, Liberty
MOUTHS OF BABES Bring a touch of festive cheer to little ones’ meal times. Reindeer baby bamboo spoons, £6 for three, Sass & Belle
HYDRATION STATION Help a plant lover keep their greenery looking happy and healthy. Indoor watering can, £16, Leaf Envy
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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THE SHORTLIST
TREND-PROOF SOFAS
«
You want to love it for a good 10 years, and even have it reupholstered after that, so choose a design classic that will evolve with your room
I come in more than 150 fabrics including velvet
THE CLASSIC Squisharoo sofa in Burnished Yellow clever velvet, from £1,295; Little Cheese footstool in Dried Plaster clever velvet, from £195; Marbler side table, £245; Bobble rug, from £295; Flagon table lamp, from £95; Scatter cushions, from £20; Careful Whisper art print, £375, all Loaf
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DECEMBER 2020 | IDEALHOME.CO.UK
WHAT’S NEW can buy extra « You covers for me for under £100!
THE SHABBY CHIC Ektorp three seater sofa in Dark Beige, £350, Ikea THE CHESTERFIELD Cromwell Chesterfield three seater sofa in Hutch Grey, £1,499, John Lewis & Partners
THE VELVET TUXEDO Iggy three seat sofa in Bahama Cotton Matt Velvet, £2,150, Sofa.com THE RETRO Egle three seater sofa in Marigold House Weave, £1,199, Swoon
THE MODERN MODULAR Hay Mags straight three seater sofa in Light Grey, £2,597, Made In Design
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT
THE SMART SQUARE Model 01 velvet three seater sofa in Vine, £995, Swyft Home
THE CLUB Gwyneth three seater sofa in Lustrous Blossom Luxury Velvet +, £2,650, Sweetpea and Willow
THE TRAD Orson three seater sofa in Natural Weave, £699, Made
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T O B O O K A F R E E A P P O I N T M E N T C A L L 0 8 0 0 5 8 7 6 4 8 0 O R V I S I T U S AT H I L L A R Y S . C O . U K
WHAT’S NEW
IDEAL VS GREAT DEAL
Spruce up your hallway for Christmas with rustic storage, welcoming lighting and a few festive finishing touches MOOD SETTER Lotta lantern, £45, LSA International BRASS EFFECT Wilhelm antique brass style wall light, £28, Iconic Lights
INDUSTRIAL STYLE Brooklyn dome wall light, £89, Industville
FESTIVE FOLIAGE Ultimate extra long green and berry garland, £125, The White Company
BEADED BAUBLE Glass fir and berries bauble, £4.99, The Contemporary Home
SLIMLINE STORAGE Mackay console table, £429, Swoon
GLOW GETTER Hurricane lantern with wooden base, £8, George Home
LEAFY DETAIL Rococo eucalyptus bauble, £1, Wilko
GREENERY GARLAND Laurel and fir garland, £56, Ella James
COMPACT DESIGN Dillon console table, £239, Dunelm
FEATURE LISA FAZZANI
CLUTTER CATCHER Estuary stacking basket, £14, Argos
HALLWAY TIDY Nkomi basket, £59.95, Nkuku
PINT-SIZED Pre lit potted mini Christmas tree, £79.99, Lights4Fun
INDOORS OR OUT Imperial potted outdoor Christmas tree, £39.99, Dobbies
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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Past meets present The McFarlanes sympathetically updated their Victorian house, avoiding period pastiche and working in contemporary elements without destroying its character
Hallway ‘It was important to restore the house sensitively, so finding modern floor tiles for the hall that matched the original Victorian design in the porch was brilliant.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Norfolk mosaic floor tiles, £344.35sq m, London Mosaic. Large convex mirror, £1,950, Pure White Lines
REAL HOME
Staircase ‘My painted gold stair runner was supposed to be a temporary replacement for the worn-out carpet, but I love it so much I’ve continued it across the landing. It’s glamorous and durable; even with three boys, there’s not a scratch.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Bedec MSP Gold soft satin paint, £21.48 for 750ml, Brewers
BARE WOOD NEWEL Softens the hard colour contrast in this space
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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REAL HOME
Welcome to my home THE PROPERTY A seven-bedroom Victorian semi in Dorking, Surrey.
THE VALUE Bought for around £740,000 in 2013; now worth around £1.2m.
Philippa McFarlane, an interiors business owner, lives here with her husband Alistair, a design engineering manager, and their sons, Zack, 10, Indie, eight and Max, five.
W Take a quick tour...
PLAYROOM
DINING ROOM
MAIN BEDROOM
BEDROOM
KITCHEN DRESSING ROOM LIVING ROOM BEDROOM BEDROOM
FIRST FLOOR
FRONT ROOM STUDY
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
GROUND FLOOR
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SECOND FLOOR
DECEMBER 2020 | IDEALHOME.CO.UK
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We were determined to renovate the house sympathetically and I love everything we’ve done to it
”
e adored this house from the moment we walked in,’ says Philippa McFarlane, owner of sandrockhouse.com. ‘We’d been looking for a while, as we were expecting our second son and running out of space. This house was much larger, and the beautifully-proportioned rooms and period features were fabulous. ‘There was work to be done, though. The interior was all dated creams and yellows and, although the house was habitable, the kitchen was small and rickety. The roof, windows and guttering needed redoing, and there was a decrepit, leaky conservatory at the back.’ Top of Philippa and Alistair’s wishlist was a light-flooded, open-plan family kitchen and living area, and once they had sorted out the structural issues, they were eager to push on and bring their vision to life. ‘We’d been handson with DIY before we had the boys, and we did tackle some decorating, but we didn’t have the time or energy to progress things as fast as we’d have liked. ‘A couple of years in, and just before our third son was born, we began a massive, 15-month renovation project. We decamped to the top of the house and turned a spare bedroom into a living room. The timing wasn’t ideal; there were masses of decisions to make, and juggling family life with dust and mess was pretty stressful. That said, we were excited about our plans and enjoyed the process.’ Bedrooms and bathrooms were updated alongside new heating and wiring. Walls came down, uneven floors were levelled, and the conservatory was rebuilt to form an open kitchen, dining room and sitting area. ‘We’d never attempted a project on this scale before, but I wouldn’t change anything about the end result. We spend most of our time in the new kitchenliving area and it’s lovely for entertaining, so that makes this a great Christmas house, too.’
GALLERY GRID Strictly matching, for a formal look
Living room ‘This is where we relax with music or a film, so the dark blue walls and comfy sofas make it cosy. I like the character and warmth of wood, so we’ve left the original pine floor.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Walls painted in Basalt intelligent matt emulsion, £51.50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Bagsie sofa, £1,895, Loaf
Sitting area ‘I started with pale grey in here, but it felt bland so I added the gorgeous wallpaper to draw attention to the log burner.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Cole and Son Fornasetti Nuvolette wallpaper, £300 a roll, John Lewis & Partners. Oscar corner sofa, £3,800, Loaf
GLASS COFFEE TABLE Doesn’t block light for a more open feel
REAL HOME
Open-plan space ‘We’ve run a parquet floor through the kitchen and living room. We felt the house deserved traditionally-laid, solid oak blocks and we wanted plenty of visible knots to give it authentic character.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Oak parquet flooring, £48sq m, Armorel CLEAR GLASS PENDANTS Keep the conservatory light and airy
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REAL HOME
Kitchen-diner ‘The kitchen floor was dug level with the conservatory, for a seamless flow, and we chose concrete and parquet floors to mix tones and textures. The island has a concrete surface, too. It has become scratched; but it doesn’t have to be perfect!’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Freedom stools, £79.99 each, Atlantic Shopping
OAK BREAKFAST BAR Connects the kitchen and dining areas
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BESPOKE CABINET Same colour links to the seating zone
Sitting area
Dining room
‘I don’t use a lot of colour, but blues are a definite thread running through my house. Turquoise is my go-to Christmas accent, as it sits well with white and silver.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Oak parquet flooring, £48sq m, Armorel. 7ft artificial Nordmann fir LED Christmas tree, £629, Balsam Hill. Oscar corner sofa, £3,800, Loaf
‘The new conservatory is based on the original Victorian design. For continuity, the frame is painted the same colour as the hall – a warm, dark grey that works anywhere.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Frame painted in Noble Grey eggshell, £47 for 2.5ltr, Dulux. Concrete floor, £8,960, Lazenby. DT69 industrial crank table base, from £2,075; oak top, £4,000, Armorel. Eames DKR-2 chairs, £539 each, Innes. Pendants, £1,250 each, Sandrockhouse
“
We’ve highlighted the period features, but we also love industrial materials like concrete, metal, glass and natural wood
”
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Master bedroom ‘We removed old-fashioned fitted wardrobes and pinched space from the next-door bedroom, which freed up the alcoves for beautiful wallpaper and my antique dressing table.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Cole and Son Fornasetti Nuvolette wallpaper, £300 a roll, John Lewis & Partners
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REAL HOME
“
With the décor, my style is timeless but there’s always a contemporary edge to it
”
REFURBED PLANKS Simply sanded and treated with a protective oil
REAL HOME
Boys’ bedroom ‘We wanted a wood feature in Indie and Max’s room, so Alistair used discarded pallets to panel the wall for a cabin feel. I found the bunk beds on eBay and the boys keep their books in the step drawers.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Bakero Zigzag kilim rug, £46.99, Wayfair, is similar. Solid pine staircase bunk bed, £699, Sleepland Beds, is a match
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FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY STYLING GEMMA GEAR PHOTOGRAPHS BRENT DARBY PLANS AGENCY SERVICE
FACTORY LIGHT Works with the wood to give an industrial vibe
Master bedroom ‘We didn’t have space for the dressing room and en suite we wanted, so we treated ourselves to a bath in the bedroom instead.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Weathered copper bateau bath, £7,200; La Fontaine Noire bath shower mixer, £2,280, both Catchpole & Rye
WOODEN PELMET Conceals black-out blinds that roll down behind the sheers
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
“
Using a lot of colour can make designing a room hard work. My palette is restrained, as it’s easier to create interest with bold accessories and statement furniture
”
REAL HOME
Make it work for you PHILIPPA’S STYLE: BOUTIQUE RETREAT MY GO-TO STORES… FRITZ FRYER Restored antique lighting and quality vintage-inspired designs, plus a bespoke service.
FEATURE MICHELA COLLING PHOTOGRAPH BRENT DARBY
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Saturated blues and statement wallpaper are teamed with soft touches and distinctive finds to create a chic hideaway DARK & STORMY Nuvolette wallpaper, £300 for a two roll set, Cole & Son at John Lewis & Partners
Contrast an intense blue wall colour with a warm off-white
LOAF A modern take on timeless upholstered pieces in a wide range of fabrics and styles.
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HEAL’S Elegant, contemporary furniture and homeware, and rich seasonal decorations.
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SMART SILHOUETTE Noctis Wheal wall light, £265, Tom Raffield
MANTEL PIECE Bozeman sculpture, £16.50, Abigail Ahern
FANCY EDGE Olivia ruffled linen cushion, £69, The French Bedroom Company
DRESS THE WALLS LED half wreath, £12.50, Matalan
“
LEAFY FLOURISH Winter Lake faux foliage garland, £24.99, Lights4fun
STYLIST’S NOTE
For a rich, enveloped room, paint the ceiling and woodwork too, but stick with a light colour on the floor to balance the space STYLE EDITOR, MICHELA COLLING
”
HOTEL AT HOME Whye copper bath, from £2,100, London Encaustic
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DRESS YOUR HOME WITH FOLIAGE
Decorate your home with greenery from the garden for a simple and budgetfriendly way to add a festive feel
Combine foliage with different leaf shapes and colours for visual interest
Statement centrepiece Parquet table, £550, Graham and Green. Concrete effect bowl, £55, Marquis & Dawe. Retro jar candleholders, £12.50 each, Nordic House
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Fill an oversized bowl with offcuts from your Christmas tree. Nestle candleholders or church candles into the foliage for a tabletop focal point.
STYLE & DECOR
Fireplace flourish
An empty frame draws the eye but lets the foliage take centre stage
Drax desk lamp, ÂŁ130; Percy pendant light in clear glass, ÂŁ145, both Pooky
Holly is a popular decoration in traditional schemes, but you can give it an elegant, contemporary look with a simple layer of sprigs across the mantelpiece.
Simple white tableware and linens give the look a smart edge
Green tablescaping Create a living table runner using seasonal potted plants such as cyclamen, and finish each place setting with a simple wreath.
STYLE & DECOR
Warm welcome Hang garlands of evergreen foliage from banisters for a fuller look, and accessorise them with baubles, twinkling fairy lights and smart ribbons.
The charcoalpainted banisters make the greenery really pop
Flaxman runner, £129m, Roger Oates Design. Ercol Originals love seat, £900, Heal’s IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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Swap simple thread with satin ribbon for a luxe finish
Delicate display
Embroidery hoops, from ÂŁ2 each, John Lewis & Partners
Use asparagus ferns for a modern botanical wreath. Secure sprigs between the sections of a wooden embroidery hoop, fanning out to fill the space.
STYLE & DECOR
Bottle greens Simply fill clear glass bottles to just below the neck with water and carefully push a sprig of foliage, such as fir, ivy or eucalyptus, into each bottle so it sits upright. Finish with a green dinner candle.
Display in clusters of three, or in a row along your mantelshelf or dinner table
12in Sherwood dinner candles in Evergreen, £23.50 for 10, Price’s Candles
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STYLE & DECOR Contemporary Grey smooth window box planter, £49.99, Wayfair
Fill a window box full of fresh foliage for an oversized floral display on your mantel; use a metallic pen on a glass bauble for a personalised place setting and sit in a bed of dried moss; embellish a place setting with soft dried moss, for a lush look; adorn a chair back with a pretty spray of slender stems, secured with luxurious ribbon.
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FEATURE NICKY PHILLIPS STYLING GEMMA GEAR PHOTOGRAPHS JOANNA HENDERSON, TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Clockwise from top left
THE COLOUR EDIT
BLUSH PINK
This month, our colour consultants give their views on this delicious shade and how to use it for a beautiful home
WHERE TO BUY Wall in Morristown Cream 1241 flat emulsion, £49 for 3.78ltr, Benjamin Moore. Campbell sofa in Lava velvet, £3,200; Parquet coffee table, £550; side table, £190, all Graham and Green. Kilim cushion, £68, Yonder. Abetzi cushion, £66, Oka. Sheepskin rug, £150, Nordic House. Vermont White Spruce artificial 7.5ft tree with lights, £849, Balsam Hill. Paper star, £4.95;
Kraft baubles, £12.95 for three, all Berylune. Other decorations, wrap and ribbon, Cox & Cox. Vasa lounge chair, £795, Oka. Round cushion, £50, Lillian Daph. Lily vintage rug, £1,400, Yonder. Hanley lamp, £177, Neptune. Fraser fir garlands with lights, £89 each, Balsam Hill. Greymist kalanchoe stems, £11.50 each; Burgundy eucalyptus sprays, £9.50 each, all
Wyld Home. Gold wire LED lights, £10.50, Talking Tables. Terracotta vase, £55; stocking holders, £14.50 each, Cox & Cox. Stockings, £46 each, Tori Murphy. Stone-effect candlesticks, £45 pair, Lucy Willow. Suthfield artichoke stem, £10, Neptune. Honeycomb paper tree, £5.95 for three, Berylune. Stoneware tealight holder, £12, Rowen & Wren
STYLE & DECOR
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY...
FEATURE SOPHIE BAYLIS STYLING GEMMA GEAR PHOTOGRAPHS JOANNA HENDERSON
Designers and stylists share their views ■ ‘Rooms decorated in this grown-up pink are calm and comforting to be in,’ says Marianne Shillingford, creative director of Dulux. ‘This colour works best with friends, so unless you’re decorating a compact bedroom or bathroom, it’s worth experimenting with small amounts and zones of pink rather than going full immersion on all four walls.’ ■ Looking for the perfect partner? ‘Pink and green occur together all the time in nature, creating beautiful and impactful scenes,’ says Dominic Myland, managing director of Mylands. ‘Teaming our Floris, which is vibrant but not too sweet, with bold emerald green makes for a dramatic scheme. A gentle pink paired with tan creates cosiness and warmth; it also partners well with greys for a more sophisticated feel.’ ■ ‘I love the softness of a powdery blush against bold, earthy hues – try burgundy, burnt ochre and green. It also works well with natural woods and aged brass,’ adds interior designer Louise Robinson. ■ Think pink for modern industrial style. ‘Using blush pink alongside rugged materials can add an unexpected twist to an otherwise understated colour scheme,’ says Paula Taylor, colour and trend specialist at Graham & Brown. ‘Concrete, marble and metal accents can be balanced by the pink tone and rooms that receive little sunlight will feel warmed up.’ ■ Joa Studholme, colour curator at Farrow & Ball, advises how to use its muted rose shade Sulking Room Pink. ‘Some might say this has a feminine aesthetic, and it will no doubt be a favourite for bedrooms, but it can also be used on kitchen cabinets, particularly with dark paint hues such as Paean Black and Railings for a strong look. The more darks you combine with this pink, the more bohemian it feels; pairing it with mahogany woodwork will create a dramatic impact.’ ■ ‘Team this colour with natural, earthy hues for a warm, welcoming look,’ says Earthborn’s colour expert Cathryn Helsby. ‘At Earthborn, we would vote for a yellow/pink partnership. Or, balance blush with chalky charcoal for a chic contrast.’
Colour strip painted in Pressed Petal; walls in Blossom White, both £29.16 for 2.5ltr, Dulux
“
Pink is so versatile – it’s the ideal backdrop for patterns and you can go as bold and as colourful as you like
”
LOUISE ROBINSON, INTERIOR DESIGNER
THE EDIT: PERFECT PINKS
BEST FOR A SOPHISTICATED STYLE Floris marble matt emulsion, £51 for 2.5ltr, Mylands
BEST FOR A CLEAN FINISH Confetti intelligent matt emulsion, £51.50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene
BEST FOR A VINTAGE FEEL Rosie Posie claypaint, £45 for 2.5ltr, Earthborn
BEST FOR AN ON-TREND LOOK Pashmina matt emulsion, £18 for 2.5ltr, Crown
BEST FOR WARMTH Pink Perfection premium blend v700 walls & ceilings, £29 for 2.5ltr, Valspar at B&Q
BEST FOR A VERSATILE SCHEME Sulking Room Pink estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
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Green
A collection of authentic National Trust colours including original shades from the homes of Winston Churchill, George Bernard Shaw and Beatrix Potter. Available now. 80
Order your free colourcard, or find your nearest stockist at littlegreene.com Colour Consultancy service available nationwide
REAL HOME
Escape to the country Inge Versteegh and Michel Berger left town, bought an old farmhouse and set about giving their style a more rustic vibeÉ
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REAL HOME
Welcome to my home Joep, 23, lives in Rotterdam.
THE PROPERTY A farmhouse built in 1785 in Limburg, the Netherlands.
THE VALUE Bought for Inge Versteegh, an interiors stylist, lives here with her husband Michel Berger, a digital marketing strategist, and their son Jelle, 19, a student. Their eldest son
Take a quick tour... VOID
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
BATH ROOM
BEDROOM BEDROOM
FIRST FLOOR
BARN
LIVING ROOM
BARN HALL
KITCHEN
BATH ROOM
GROUND FLOOR
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£456,800 in 2017; now worth around £500,000.
“
We wanted a change of scene somewhere less crowded, closer to nature
”
aving lived in a bustling town for many years, Inge Versteegh and Michel Berger wanted a slower pace of life. After finding a 240-year old farmhouse close to Michel’s family in the southern Netherlands, they made the move. The marl stone facade, original barn doors and large inner courtyard featuring an old well captured their hearts. It also had a self-contained one bedroom apartment that Inge could run as a B&B (brookerhof.nl). ‘Having lived in cities all my life, I appreciate the quietness of Limburg but sometimes it’s too quiet,’ she says. ‘That’s why it’s nice to have people staying with us. Our guests are always in a good holiday mood and I like to pamper people.’ Although the inner courtyard needed rebuilding and the decor was old-fashioned, the couple appreciated the room sizes and half acre grounds which include a lovely orchard. ‘I enjoy old details that tell a story. It’s exciting to think that this house was here long before we were and will probably be here long after us.’ Since the property was in good condition, a new kitchen and redecoration was all that was needed. As an interior stylist (@ingeversteegh), Inge recommends sticking to two or three colours on the walls and creating accents with small items that can be changed easily with the seasons. At Christmas, her decorations tend to be made from natural materials, with lots of twigs, self-made wreaths and garlands in earthy colours. ‘I prefer subtle touches rather than an over abundance of decorations. Once Christmas is over I feel inspired to do something new as I’m always restless to re-decorate. We’re already onto our next project converting an old stable into a space for meetings, photo shoots and workshops, as well as providing another B&B apartment which will open next year.’
Hallway Warm grey walls with a chalky finish compliment the original tiles and door. ‘The green bottle from a French market fits perfectly here,’ says Inge. BUY THE KEY PIECES Walls in Pigeon estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Moroccan encaustic tiles (02z), £70.50sq m, Best Tile, are similar. Try vintage mirror, £105, Notonthehighstreet.com
FLOOR TILES Inlaid section creates a rug effect
REAL HOME ‘This little sideboard used to be a rack for cooling loaves of bread, and the artwork is by Jolanda Wassenaar,’ says Inge
WHEELED BOXES Make heavy pots and crocks easy to move
Kitchen
Dining area
To personalise her kitchen, Inge used a Dutch company that makes oak fronts for Ikea Metod cabinets and chose sturdy black metal handles to contrast with the raw wood. BUY THE KEY PIECES For similar kitchen cabinet doors, try 60x80cm whitewashed oak kitchen doors, £162.75 each, Koak Design. Black iron rustic cabinet pull handles, £8.10 each, Handles 4 U
The ceiling was painted white to highlight the curved beams and metal shelving adds an industrial edge: ‘It was a fitting in an interiors shop we persuaded the owners to sell,’ says Inge. BUY THE KEY PIECES Try galvanised Rax 2 shelving, £167.99, Shelving Direct. Vitra Eames chair, £255, John Lewis & Partners. Victorine linen tablecloth, £85, La Redoute, is similar
“
For continuity I’ve used warm grey, off blacks and sandy colours throughout
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”
LOW-HUNG PENDANT Creates an intimate feel over a table
Dining area ‘This is the centre of our home where we eat, work, meet and relax. Our wood burner fills the room with warmth, which is really needed in such an old, uninsulated house.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Large reclaimed dining table, £495, Nkuku, would work here. Classic factor pendant light, £174, Trainspotters, has this style
REAL HOME
Living room ‘We love the large central fireplace as you can see it from both sides,’ says Inge. BUY THE KEY PIECES Large wire basket, £34.99, H&M Home, would work here. Try the large Hero clay pot, £40, Design Vintage. Black candelabra, £65, Geoff Coles Creations on Etsy, is similar
We wanted to harmonise different “styles into one, but keep the rough edges. It’s a really old farmhouse, so it doesn’t suit designer furniture
”
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Living room A chunky, contemporary sofa is in proportion for this airy space. ‘I sprayed the birch branch white and decorated it with natural items as I don’t like shiny baubles,’ says Inge. BUY THE KEY PIECES Dolva corner sofa, £1,160, Beliani, has this style. Try the Colorado coffee table, £540.50, Maisons du Monde
Love
INGE’S STYLE? Turn to page 62 to shop the look
COFFEE TABLE Made from reclaimed wood and castors
REAL HOME
Living room ‘Since the wall next to the stairs is made from wood and not strong enough to carry a lamp, I used a branch to drape a bulb around,’ says Inge. BUY THE KEY PIECES Try the Qinghai painted blanket trunk, £625, Shimu. Eviana stool, £21.99, Wayfair, has a similar style
BARE WOOD SKIRTING Adds warmth to pale walls
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Scandinavian style uses natural elements: wood, concrete, steel, wool, linen – sturdy, rough materials
”
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CEILING PENDANT Use an upturned basket to save money
B&B bedroom ‘This the biggest bedroom in the house. It has ample light, so a darker cement grey works well on the walls. I made the bed myself from scaffolding boards.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Try Downpipe estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Ghada bench, £145, La Redoute, is a match. Pitaya rattan armchair, £215.50, Maisons du Monde, is similar
MISMATCHED LAMPS Create a relaxed look
Bathroom ‘I love the traditional look of this washbasin. And the new tiles tie in beautifully with the old ones in our entrance hall.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Alexandra basin, £350.15, Victorian Plumbing, has this style. Devonstone grey floor tiles, £14sq m, Tiles Direct, are a good match
Master bedroom
Landing area
‘I’ve kept this room light and natural with linen fabrics and no clutter,’ says Inge, who made the bedside tables and wooden picture frame herself. BUY THE KEY PIECES Grey throw, £45, Trouva, is similar. Try the Monda table lamp, £18, Iconic Lights
Built-in cabinets line the 25m landing from Inge and Michel’s private part of the house to the B&B apartment. They’re handy for storing linen and towels. BUY THE KEY PIECES Try faux deer antlers, £34.67, Near and Deer at Etsy. Black recycled leather rug, £29.99, Homescapes, is similar
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
“
Buy bigger, better items for your interior rather than being overloaded with lots of little things, and always make a mood board, to give you structure
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”
REAL HOME
WORDS KAROLA WOLL, KAREN WILSON PHOTOGRAPHS IVAR JANSSEN STYLING WILMA CUSTERS PLANS AGENCY SERVICE
SHELVING Use eaves space to incorporate storage
Bathroom ‘The black bath is an original that came with the house, and I’ve painted an old milking stool grey to continue the rustic feel.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Milbrook bath, £1,072.50, The Cast Iron Bath Company, is comparable. Clear glass globe pendant lamp, £55.76, Litfad, is similar
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REAL HOME
Make it work for you
INGE’S STYLE: INDUSTRIAL SCANDI MY GO-TO STORES… ●
BOET STIJL Great place for finding affordable pieces in neutral, natural shades.
Cool greys, black accents and natural wood finishes combine to create a contemporary scheme with a rustic edge SERENE STYLE Honeycomb ball decorations in Stone Grey, £9.50 for two, Rockett St George
Pare back festive decs for a chic look
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LITTLE LOFTS For lovers of simple and calm interiors, it’s a great shop for minimalist furniture and rustic pieces.
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BODILSON A Dutch brand offering modern, industrial pieces and my go-to for sofas, dining tables and rugs. ELEGANT ANGLES Ferm Living Avant candelabra, £75, Nordic Nest
FACTORY STYLE Stourton enamel ceiling light in Black, £79.99, Dowsing & Reynolds
BUTTON DETAIL Hendricks three seater sofa in wool mix Charcoal, £1,600, Habitat
COSY KNIT Fes cotton cushion in Off White/Black, £25, Made
STYLIST’S NOTE
“
Fronds of seasonal foliage and faux-fur cushions add cosy texture to a monochrome scheme during the winter months
”
STEPHANIE DURRANT, SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR
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CHUNKY KNIT Yarn medium rug, £275, Loaf
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH IVAR JANSSEN
FESTIVE FINESSE Wreath with wooden stars and micro LED lights, £34.99, Dobbies
Eclectic appeal Choose an array of colours and styles to decorate your tree this season. These vintage-looking baubles are part of the Bloomsbury collection, £10 for five finial assorted baubles or 28 mini assorted baubles, at John Lewis & Partners
STYLE SECRETS
JEWEL PURPOSE Play with a palette of sapphire, emerald, ruby and garnet to bring drama and decadence to your décor. Don’t hold back – these are colours to immerse yourself in…
STYLE & DECOR NAVY WALLS A balancing contrast to a jewel colour palette
Wall in Crowberry matt emulsion, £48 for 2.5ltr, Papers and Paints. Wycombe grand sofa in Bracklyn Auburn, £2,066, Parker Knoll. Gumdrop footstool in Old Orange deep velvet, £555, Loaf. Large Indigo mist rug, £220; Blue Pandora pouffe, £180; patchwork cushion, £28, all French Connection Home. Three wise men candleholders, from a selection, Bungalow
Pinch of spice Jewel and spice tones make each other glow for a rich and cosy feel in a living room. Choose dirty shades for a mellow mix and enhance the look with firelight and candle flames. IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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Wall in Brush Blue CW-675 paint, £30.50 for 0.94ltr, Benjamin Moore. Bamboozle wall light, £57; tall tapered shade in Matthew Williamson Leopard Love Jade, £33; slider floor lamp in bronze, £285; tall tapered shade in Jade Taj silk, £69, all Pooky. Iggy armchair, £1,200; Harper footstool, £550, both Sofa.com
BLENDED SHELVING Painted to match the wall for a seamless look
Blue note If you already have grey walls, a vibrant mix of sapphire blue, jade green and turquoise will easily elevate the scheme.
STYLE & DECOR
Branch dining table, from £1,539, Blu Dot at Heal’s. Hamilton arm dining chairs, £250 for two; Holborn chair, £350, all Next Home. Home Hotel bench, £4,364, Jean-Marie Massaud for Poliform. Geometric marble stool, £595, William Yeoward. Karma rug, £259, Woven. Luxury garland (made into a wreath), from £25, Titania’s Garden. Cotton velvet cushion cover in Dark Pink, £6.99, H&M Home. Penguin cocktail shaker, £35, Rockett St George
“
Add instant impact to your festive décor by playing with scale, hanging a show-stopping wreath on the wall or adding an oversized candelabra to the table
”
NICKY PHILLIPS, DECORATING EDITOR
Dining drama Try a bolder mix of jewel shades for a decadent look in a dining space, choosing shades of the same weight for a harmonious, not clashing, effect.
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Wall in Crowberry matt emulsion, £48 for 2.5ltr, Papers and Paints. Isabella headboard, £1,200, KD Loves. Bedlinen in French Blue linen, from £20 for a pillowcase, Secret Linen Store. Green cushion, £40, Raj Tent Club. Navy tassel cushion, £48, Design Vintage
Boutique bedroom
DEEP BLUE BEDLINEN Matched to the wall to let the headboard be the hero
FEATURE NICKY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Modern hotel design is all about the statement headboard – this curved, shaped design works best with a large-scale pattern fabric, as a smaller print would look too twee.
STYLE & DECOR Walls in Napoleonic Blue chalk paint; arch in Scandinavian Pink chalk paint; floor in Old White chalk paint, all from £21.95 for 1ltr; ticking, £34.95m, all Annie Sloan
Aladdin’s cave Built-in bunks inside an embellished archway of royal-blue MDF sheet turns a functional twin room into a fantasy. Simple white-painted floorboards keep the room practical.
DIY ADVENT GARLAND Simple fabric pouches filled with treats
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The big reveal Mette and Tony Mau hit the jackpot after taking a gamble on a badly modernised Copenhagen apartment
WIDE DOORWAY Remove doors to connect spaces better
Living room The couple added warm colour and texture to make the big, airy rooms feel cosier. ‘Natural, hard-wearing materials, like wood and wool, create a grounding sense of warmth and quality in the home,’ says Mette. BUY THE KEY PIECES Wakefield chandelier, £125, John Lewis & Partners, is similar
REAL HOME
Living room A cool grey-purple colour creates depth and gives the large living room an intimate feel. ‘I mixed it using leftover paint,’ says Mette. ‘This way you get a bespoke colour and can tone it up or down.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES For a similar wall colour, try Arquerite, £47 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Let the light in poster, £24.95, Desenio, would work well here
GALLERY WALL Groups of five look balanced
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Welcome to my home
THE PROPERTY A three-bedroom flat on the island of Amager in Copenhagen, bought in 2017.
THE VALUE Similar properties in the area sell for around £350,000. Mette Mau, a teacher, lives here with her husband Tony, an IT developer, and their children Ines, nine and Noa, seven.
T Take a quick tour...
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
KITCHEN
LIVING AREA
BATHROOM
DINING AREA
MAIN BEDROOM
GROUND FLOOR
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“
I’m glad I had the courage to be bold, as no one wants to look at a boring house
”
he grand exterior of the apartment made its interior all the more disappointing when Mette and Tony first viewed it. False ceilings, thick woodchip wallpaper and a dark and dilapidated kitchen were immediate turn-offs. However, the idea of joining a ready-made community appealed: ‘Called Andelsbolig in Danish, it’s a form of property ownership where, instead of buying it outright, you buy the right to use an apartment in a building that’s owned by a co-operative,’ says Mette. ‘It’s very sociable and the children always have someone to play with. We help each other with school runs, and there’s always someone who has a spare egg if you need it.’ They embarked on a four-month renovation to reveal the property’s stately proportions, removing a wall between the hallway and kitchen to fill it with light, and uncovering panelled walls and ornate cornicing. The couple completely refitted the kitchen, chosen to complement the building’s period style. ‘Tony did everything himself,’ says Mette. ‘It gives us a kind of reassurance knowing exactly where all the little mistakes and hiccups are to be found.’ The work was a hard slog and living among the mess wasn’t easy. ‘But, good things take time and that’s OK,’ says Mette. At Christmas, Mette chooses a colour theme for each room and puts up decorations collected from her travels. ‘Christmas should be beautiful, but it shouldn’t be a showroom – we have the big shopping malls for that,’ she says. ‘By using decorations I’ve found from all over the world, or ones that I’ve bought for special occasions, Christmas becomes a time of remembering lovely past experiences. During the holidays, a perfect day for us is spent listening to Christmas tunes in our pyjamas and doing lots of festive baking.’
REAL HOME
Dining room
CHANDELIER Highlights the grandeur of the room’s period features
‘The shelf around the room creates a depth to the panelling. I’ve softened it with a warm grey on the walls, sheepskins and a worn old table. I love the stories old things have and investing in them is more satisfying than buying into new trends.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Watford walnut dining table, £625, La Redoute, would work here
Love METTE’S STYLE?
Turn to page 81 to shop the look
REAL HOME
SUPERSIZE PENDANT Visually zones the breakfast bar
‘The ledges match the wall for a calm look’
Main bedroom The coat rack with hat shelf was found at a fleamarket in Berlin and is useful for the couple’s grab-and-go essentials. BUY THE KEY PIECES Eichholtz coat rack, £275, Olivia’s, has this look
Kitchen ‘The bold black kitchen works thanks to light walls and surfaces. We ended up choosing an Ikea design because of the price, but we upgraded the doors with vintage-style handles. Black
doors have a more expensive look than white, I think.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Try Lerhyttan units, from £925 for eight; Skogarp worktop, £180m, both Ikea. Modus PLC stools, £463 each, Eve Waldron Design
If you choose colours you “ love rather than colours that are fashionable, you won’t tire of them. And colours with the same tones will fit together naturally
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Hallway As the kitchen is open to the hallway, Mette chose a warm colour to bring the space together. ‘I didn’t want it to feel like we were sitting in a corridor at the breakfast bar,’ she says. BUY THE KEY PIECES Try Deep Reddish Brown emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
BARE BOARDS Simply sanded and whitewashed for an authentic look
REAL HOME
Living room The plush velvet sofa brings the flat matt wall finish to life. ‘Velvet gives a room a kind of luxurious 1930s feel that I really like,’ says Mette. BUY THE KEY PIECES Scott three-seater sofa in Concrete velvet, £999; Julius round velvet cushion in Soft Pink, £25, both Made, are comparable
DAY BED More comfy than the typical pair of chairs
FEATURE KAREN WILSON/ METTE HELENA RASMUSSEN PHOTOGRAPHS TIA BORGSMIDT/HOUSE OF PICTURES
‘The simple shelves let the panelling stand out’
Ines’ bedroom ‘Ines adored the film Frozen when this room was done. I thought the painting looked like Elsa’s world. Art can really get children’s imaginations going.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Hemnes daybed, from £215, Ikea. Try Dorma Remingron blue bedspread, £160, Dunelm
VINTAGE SCHOOL CHAIR An alternative bedside table
Main bedroom White walls, with Mette’s favourite dusky accent colours layered on top, give the bedroom a warm and calm atmosphere.
BUY THE KEY PIECES Sinnerlig pendant, £40, Ikea. Try Scenario purple throw, £40, La Redoute. Cotton velvet cushion covers, £6.99 each, H&M Home
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
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UNDER-BED DRAWERS Great for quick toy clear-ups
You shouldn’t try to make a property into something it isn’t. Be faithful to the architectural style of the building, then add your own personal touches with the colours and room designs
”
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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE BOTTOMS UP! Put together a stylish drinks station for guests and place a floor-standing leopard, £29.99, nearby to watch over proceedings!
BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL Swap a traditional wreath for a pom-pom version, £9.99
NATURALLY NEUTRAL Combine a textured throw, £19.99, with a wooden lantern to create a cosy nook
YOUR CHRISTMAS, YOUR RULES Switch up your space for the festive season with a selection of wonderfully unique accessories from Homesense
BROWSE THE RANGE The devil’s in the detail, as the saying goes, and it only takes a few carefully
chosen pieces to transform your festive décor from ice cold to red hot. New tableware, delicate tree decorations, cute ornaments and pretty garlands are all that’s needed to freshen up your scheme.
addition to your décor. You’ll find everything you need to make your home feel festive all under one roof at Homesense.
ENHANCE YOUR DECOR If you like all-out festive sparkle then why not adorn your home with funky statement pieces, metallic touches and quirky animals? Or perhaps you’ve always longed for the pared-back, comforting feel of a Nordic-style Christmas? The muted palette and natural materials of a Scandi theme will inject plenty of warmth and charm into your home. Or, if you think the festive season should be colourful, go for cheery figurines and pretty pom-poms for a joyful
Homesense has got brand new deliveries arriving right up until Christmas Eve, helping you kit out your home for the festive season. Part of the TK Maxx family, there are 76 Homesense stores across the country. Find your nearest store today at homesense.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION
WORDS EMILY POINTER
C
elebrating Christmas has never been easier than with Homesense’s incredible range of homeware – there’s no better way to put a smile on the faces of loved ones than with a beautifully decorated and welcoming festive home. But with more of us than ever watching the pennies, it’s reassuring to know that at Homesense you’ll be spending up to 60% less. Homesense’s fabulous finds also make great gifts, so if you have a homeware lover in your life, why not treat them to something special for their home?
REAL HOME
Make it work for you METTE’S STYLE: NORDIC HARMONY
Pairing a calming powdery palette with dramatic black and plum accents creates balance and contrast
MY GO-TO STORES...
HIGH FLYER Natural bird ornament, £14, Att Pynta
●
H&M HOME I’m really fond of this store. It’s a great place to buy cushions for very little money.
Mix soft lilac shades with striking charcoal and navy
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FERM LIVING This Danish brand has an ever-changing stock of beautiful, timeless furniture.
●
MOODINGS Minimalist modern design from brands like Hay, Menu and Muuto.
SUMPTUOUS FINISH Julius round cushion, £25, Made
PAPER CRAFT Bossa Nova hanging stars, £7.50 each, Rose & Grey SATURATED FLUSH Epoch matt emulsion, £38 for 2.5ltr, Graham & Brown
WOVEN ARTWORK Vista blanket, £119, Ferm Living at Amara
FEATURE MICHELA COLLING
TREASURE SHOWCASE Bomarken display box, £20, Ikea
STYLIST’S NOTE
“
Choose different paint colours that will sit together harmoniously by looking horizontally across a paint chart for similar depth of tone STYLE EDITOR MICHELA COLLING
”
MODERN CLASSIC J104 chair, £175, Hay at Utility Design
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INTERIOR DESIGN ADVICE
CREATE A WELCOMING ROOM FOR GUESTS Spare bedrooms can often be an afterthought, especially if they have to multitask as offices or storage spaces. We asked three interiors experts for their ideas and solutionsÉ
HOTEL CHIC Keep the look simple with a classic monochrome scheme, adding texture for interest. Cavendish king-size bed, £1,945; Ashwell chandelier, £495; Mason bedspread, £120, all The White Company
STYLE & DECOR SUBTLE EFFECT Opt for layered lighting, such as a low-hung pendant, to create a relaxed mood. Showroom Finland Pilke light, £350, John Lewis & Partners
WALL TO WALL If your dressing room doubles as a guest room, max out the storage with bespoke wardrobes
B
eing the smallest bedroom, or having to do double duty, shouldn’t stop a guest room from being a well-functioning and comfortable space. We asked three experts – an interior designer, a hotelier and a holiday cottage owner – how to work with what you have to create a room that will leave your guests feeling well rested and looked after.
WHAT’S THE BEST MATTRESS TO SUIT DIFFERENT PEOPLE? ‘The bed is the most important item,’ says interior designer Nicky Dobree, ‘so it needs to have a good mattress. Choose one that is medium-firm, enabling guests to sleep comfortably in most positions.’ Julia Hands of Hand Picked Hotels loves Hypnos Landsdowe cashmere mattresses for their quality, durability and
comfort. ‘Hotel guests have even asked where they could buy one,’ she says. Lisa Ridge-Valentine, owner of holiday home Quay Cottage says, ‘We’ve had a similar response to the mattresses we use too. Again, they’re mediumfirm, but we use a topper.’ HOW DO YOU CATER FOR DIFFERENT BEDDING PREFERENCES? ‘I use crisp white cotton in a 300-thread count,’ says Lisa. ‘As for pillows, try a mix of plump and flatter pillows, with a medium-tog duvet.’ Nicky says to buy the best-quality bedding you can afford: ‘Climbing into freshly laundered sheets is a must, as are down duvets and pillows, although keep a spare hypoallergenic set.’ HOW CAN IT WORK AS AN OFFICE AND A BEDROOM? Julia says, ‘A good-quality dressing table can make a comfortable desk, but remember to have a
MULTI-TASKER Hide the laptop in a drawer to turn your office into a guest room with ease. Flynn desk/console table, £100, Next Home
“
There’s nothing worse than sleeping on a mattress that feels as if it has been slept on by many others
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NICKY DOBREE INTERIOR DESIGNER
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3 OF THE BEST… SPACE SAVERS DOUBLE DUTY Clockhouse desk tray, £180, Lisa Valentine Home
TWO IN ONE Acorn console mirror, £499, John Lewis & Partners LIGHT WORK Bloomingville ash floor lamp, £339, Cuckooland
DUAL PURPOSE Fit a floating desk into an alcove, turning a corner of the spare room into a home office hub. Hang a mirror and it becomes a dressing table for guests
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STYLE & DECOR
NEAT IDEA Save space in a small room with a wall-hung night stand for essentials. Oak floating bedside table, £110, Urbansize
suitable chair.’ Lisa loves baskets and boxes for paperwork, while a desk/bedside lamp is a must. HOW DO WE USE IT AS A STORAGE SPACE, TOO? ‘Spare rooms can often become a dumping ground,’ says Nicky. ‘Try not to let that happen by having good storage.’ Lisa says to look at clever storage solutions. ‘Underbed boxes, wall-hung cabinets, baskets and even hooks are all great ways of containing clutter.’ Julia would always go for a bed with drawers and a traditional blanket box if space allowed. APART FROM A BED AND A BEDSIDE TABLE, WHAT DOES IT REALLY NEED? ‘Somewhere to store – or at least hang – clothes, especially if guests are visiting for a party and need to hang a dress or suit before the HOME OFFICE Had to sacrifice the guest room because you’re working from home? Kit it out with smart storage, so tech and paperwork can be stashed away when space is needed for visitors
event,’ says Julia. ‘If there isn’t space for a wardrobe, hooks with good-quality hangers serve well. More than two nights and I would say a wardrobe – even a small one – is a must, along with a comfy chair.’ Less is more for Lisa: ‘Guests are always saying our cottage isn’t “full of stuff”. When I am designing holiday homes, I am careful not to over furnish – lighting, a desk/ dressing table, a chair or stool, a mirror and fresh flowers are all you need.’ Julia says, ‘I dislike furniture that looks intriguing, but is not practical or functional.’ HOW DO I MAKE THE ROOM FEEL RELAXING? ‘Bedrooms are all about creating atmosphere and mood lighting plays a key role,’ says Nicky. ‘It’s important to have layers of lighting, with a good reading lamp by the bed a must – it’s so frustrating to climb into bed then find you’re not able to read.’ Julia opts for a
furniture that looks intriguing, “butAvoid is not practical. I am not a fan of ticking clocks either ” JULIA HANDS HOTELIER
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SET THE MOOD Bring in rich colours to add warmth to a neutral bedroom, with plush textures and layered bedding for extra comfort. Lexington fabric bed in Oatmeal, £379.99, Furniture Choice
“
As a guest, you want to feel welcome, so arriving in a room that has been specially prepared for you with love and care is a wonderful thing
”
NICKY DOBREE, INTERIOR DESIGNER
STYLE & DECOR
3 OF THE BEST… SMART BLANKETS
SUBTLE SPOT Cheetah organic cotton throw, £65, Habitat
BOLD LOOK Larkin throw in Dark Taupe, £39, Made
GREY MATTER Bronte by Moon Houndstooth throw, £125, Amara
TWIN ROOM
FEATURE JENNIFER MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
No room for a double? Push single beds against walls and add a shared bedside table
neutral background to soothe and relax rather than overwhelm. ‘I then add splashes of colour with soft furnishings and paintings. Good-quality lined curtains look luxurious and block out the light, while a plush rug adds warmth underfoot.’ Lisa advises keeping the guest room clutter free. ‘You don’t want your visitors to feel they are tripping over things or are intruding on your privacy.’ HOW CAN I MAKE GUESTS FEEL WELCOME? ‘Clean the room, light a candle or use a diffuser, leave out clean towels and a few toiletries,’ says Lisa. ‘You are creating a hotel feel, which is always a lovely treat. Make sure there’s a plug point for chargers and hairdryers too.’ For Julia, it’s all about the welcome: ‘As a hotelier, it’s the only chance you have to make sure guests feel instantly relaxed and at home. A hand-written note on the bed always goes a long way, alongside fresh flowers, scented
candles and magazines.’ Nicky agrees: ‘It’s the small details that count. As a guest, you want to feel welcome, so arriving in a room that’s been specially prepared for you is wonderful.’ SHOULD I DECORATE IN MY STYLE, OR KEEP IT GENERIC? ‘Keep the décor simple and tasteful,’ says Nicky, while Lisa adds, ‘It’s your home and you should feel happy with your choices. You want your guests to feel comfortable, but don’t forget it’s you that they’ve come to see. The room should reflect you and your home but don’t over-personalise it with too many pictures and ornaments.’ WHAT’S THE BATHROOM SHARING ETIQUETTE? ‘Always put clean towels in your guests’ room,’ says Lisa. ‘Establish a schedule of who likes to shower in the morning or have a bath at night,’ says Nicky, ‘and everyone should leave the bathroom clean when they’ve finished.’
MEET THE PROFESSIONALS… NICKY DOBREE, FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR (NICKYDOBREE. COM), with over 20 years’ interior design
experience, specialising in luxury ski chalets, villas, contemporary residential interiors and hotel design. JULIA HANDS, FOUNDER, CHAIR AND CEO OF HAND PICKED HOTELS (HANDPICKEDHOTELS.CO.UK), a
family-owned collection of 19 heritage hotels and spa resorts launched in 2001. Julia oversaw the redevelopment and interior design of each unique property. LISA RIDGE-VALENTINE, OWNER OF ONLINE STORE LISA VALENTINE HOME AND HOLIDAY PROPERTY QUAY COTTAGE IN LLANDEILO, CARMARTHENSHIRE (LISAVALENTINEHOME.CO.UK). Lisa has
owned Quay Cottage for four years. She also helps others to design and furnish their own AirB&Bs. IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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Living room ‘Blocking up the doorway from the dining room gave us more scope and a quiet, separate retreat. It lacked a focal point until we put the fireplace in, then it all came together. Picking out the picture rail in darker grey made it look really crisp and smart. BUY THE KEY PIECES Harlequin Sakura wallpaper, £64 a roll, John Lewis & Partners. Levanto coffee table, £928, The Furn Shop
Simply sophisticated A few tweaks to the layout, muted colours and glam details have transformed Vanessa Clewett and Luke James’ house into a home that feels relaxed and smart in equal measure
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REAL HOME
TEXTURED WALLPAPER Subtle pattern for an allneutral room
Love
VANESSA’S STYLE? Turn to page 99 to shop the look
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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REAL HOME
Welcome to my home THE PROPERTY A four-bed Victorian detached house in Bedford.
THE VALUE Bought for £750,000 in 2015, now worth around £1.1million.
Vanessa Clewett, a doctor, lives here with her husband, Luke James, a medical director, and their children, Barnaby, 14 and Milly, 13.
W Take a quick tour... DRESSING ROOM
MAIN BEDROOM
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
FIRST FLOOR
SECOND FLOOR
DINING ROOM
KITCHEN LIVING ROOM
GROUND FLOOR
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It’s elegant, luxurious, out of the ordinary. We thought about going away for Christmas, but we’d rather be here
”
hen Vanessa Clewett and Luke James swapped their rural barn conversion for a house in the centre of Bedford, it was all about location. ‘We wanted to be within walking distance of the children’s school,’ says Vanessa. ‘This house had character, too. I loved its high ceilings and decorative windows.’ The interior was very tired though, all 1980s red walls, dark wood, lots of separate rooms and a cramped, old-fashioned kitchen. ‘We weren’t fazed, as we’d learned so much from renovating our previous home, but we knew this would be a bigger undertaking, and we’d have to live on site while the work was done.’ Improving flow around the ground floor was a priority, and Vanessa and Luke reworked the layout, removing a dividing wall, dismantling an old conservatory and blocking up redundant doorways. ‘The idea was to have a contemporary kitchen-cum-family room with an open-plan feel, but a separate dining room and a more grown-up sitting room. The new kitchen was the key project, and we moved in in August with the aim of completing it by Christmas. There were several weeks of doing the washing up in the bath, but we got there.’ The rest was mostly cosmetic and the couple started by painting the whole interior white. ‘That made it liveable. Then I could put together a look that told a story through the house. I wanted warmth, elegance and luxury, too. After trying a lot of testers, I settled on a pale grey for most walls, and we’ve picked out woodwork with silver and darker tones. I used subtle wallpapers, too, which make it cosier, and linking elements like mirrors, metallics and velvets. It’s a fabulous house for entertaining and comes into its own when the whole family gathers here at Christmas.’
ROUND MIRRORS Soften all the long, straight lines in a hallway
Hallway ‘I was looking for something to give the hall and stairs a bit more personality and I just fell for this wallpaper. It’s a strong statement, but I only needed a small amount, so it’s not overwhelming.’ The coat cupboard is fitted with floorto-ceiling shoe cubbies. BUY THE KEY PIECES Kiki Slaughter Safari wallpaper, £129 a roll, Feathr. Club Convex mirrors, from £129 each, Artisanti, are similar
WINDOW FILM Provides privacy without blocking light
Kitchen
Kitchen island
‘The kitchen is understated, with everything neatly hidden out of sight,’ says Vanessa. ‘The decorative lighting stops it from feeling too functional, so it’s not intrusive – especially when we’re entertaining.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Leicht Ikono C kitchen units, £26,000, Kitchen Matters
A long, multifunctional island separates the kitchen from the adjoining seating area. A chimney-style extractor would have obstructed sightlines, so a rise-up downdraught design was fitted into the worktop. BUY THE KEY PIECES Quatrefoil pendant light, £399, The French Bedroom Company
“
I keep to pale, icy colours and simple Christmas decorating, so it’s all quite glamorous and nothing jars or jumps out. There’s always lots of shine and a few fresh flowers and natural touches, too
”
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REAL HOME
PENDANT TRIO Elevate and add a surprise to a neutral room
Dining room ‘The white and grey scheme creates an easy flow between here and the kitchen, so it works for everyday family meals, but it’s glamorous enough for formal entertaining.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES For similar chairs, try Velveteen ring-back dining chairs, £295 each, Sustainable Furniture. Corinna 10-seater table, £649, Made, would work here. Etch steel pendant lights, £385 each, Tom Dixon
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REAL HOME
Family bathroom ‘The bathroom was enormous, but very old-fashioned with everything sitting around the edges. I wanted a stylish hotel look, with warm tones and a big bath, away from the wall, so the room felt more cosy.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Newton bath, £890, Bathstore. Cement Light Grey tiles, £44sq m, St Neots Interiors
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FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY PHOTOGRAPHS COLIN POOLE PLANS AGENCY SERVICE
TILED SHELVES Give a seamless, streamlined effect
PAINTED FIREPLACE Works with the neutral décor rather than fighting with it
Main en suite
Main bedroom
‘We reconfigured the rooms upstairs a bit to turn a cramped shower room into an en suite adjoining our bedroom. It’s very simple, but it gives a luxury, hotel-like feel.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Abacus wall-hung twin-vanity unit, £1,484, UK Bathrooms, is similar. Try Turin bathroom mirrors, £200 each, Victorian Plumbing
‘The bed was the first item I chose and it’s quite luxurious, so it set the mood. I boosted the glamour with polished chrome, mirrors and sumptuous velvets.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES Super-king size velvet four-poster bed, £2,695; deep-buttoned velvet bench, £849, both Womacks of Bawtry. Eichholtz Morris mirror, £730, Sweetpea & Willow
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
“
Not to be afraid to rearrange rooms as needs change. We used to have a table in the space adjoining the kitchen, but now the children are older, sofas work better for relaxing and chatting, and we always eat together in the dining room
”
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Sorry, this seat’s taken. Customise your sofa – 50 styles and 50 fabrics online at swooneditions.com
Sutton three-seater from £1,499 Available in 28 fabrics
Furniture for the home obsessed swooneditions.com 020 3319 6332
REAL HOME
Make it work for you VANESSA’S STYLE: POLISHED NEUTRALS
Sleek lines, cool curves and luxe metallics bring glamour and sophistication to a classic, muted scheme GREAT DEAL
IDEAL
STATEMENT PIECE Modena wall mirror, £250, John Lewis & Partners
GLOW ON Rose Gold Osby star light, £14.99, Lights4fun
SHINE OUT Star silhouette light, £35, Cox & Cox
GLITZY BAUBLE Pale green glitter bauble, £2.99, Gisela Graham
SATIN FINISH Lydia nesting coffee tables, £379, Sofology
TOUCH OF BRASS Madison nesting coffee tables, £299, Cult Furniture
TACTILE TEXTURE Wolf faux fur throw, £28.99, Wayfair
SOFTLY DOES IT Faux fur throw, £15, Matalan
FEATURE LISA FAZZANI
LUSTRE LOOK San Verro etched silver-leaf glass lamp, £170, Artisanti
ACCENT CHAIR Eichholtz Dawson chair in Panama Sand fabric, £760, Sweetpea & Willow
FOCAL POINT Hesta mirror, £160, Hudson Home
SPARKLY NUMBER Shimmer glitter bauble, £1.69, Dobbies
METALLIC LIGHT Katara India hammered metal table lamp, £65, Dunelm
BOXY STYLE Hyde armchair in Barbados Natural fabric, £450, Habitat
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Christmassy essentials. Unique gifts.
Irresistible
*Compared to the RRP
Products vary per store
prices.
Switch up their Christmas with unique stocking fillers, glorious gifts and savings up to 60% every day*. Find brand new deliveries right up until Christmas Eve at your local Homesense.
STYLE & DECOR
EASY STYLE UPDATES From best buys and clever tricks to mini décor projects… this is our roundup of the simplest, quickest ways to make your home more beautiful now
Oversized red berry wreath with micro lights, £94.99, Lights4fun
1 ADD FESTIVE KERB APPEAL Scale up outdoor decorations this Christmas. Create symmetry with a pair of potted trees in cheery red tubs stood either side of the doorway, then go big with a supersized wreath laden with berries to deck the front door. IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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Blue Mountain Spruce pre-lit Christmas tree, £375, Cox & Cox
2 TRY AN ALL-INONE TREE Forget tangled cables and invest in a pre-lit Christmas tree so you’ve none of the hassle. Easy to assemble, with posable branches, lights are evenly spaced for a uniform look.
STYLE & DECOR
3
Maddox paper stars, from £8; Farringdon steel stars, from £18, both Garden Trading
CREATE A STARRY DISPLAY Make a dining table the focal point by hanging an assortment of stars from above, using lengths of ribbon and lightweight decorations. Suspend at staggered heights.
4 FLOAT MINI CANDLES Make an easy table centrepiece. Stand a footed glass serving bowl inside a shallow dish filled with berries and foliage. Fill the smaller bowl with water and add floating candles to finish. Bolsius floating candles, £6.99 for 20, Amazon.co.uk
Merry and Bright cushion, £6, George Home
5 SPRUCE UP THE SOFA Flip, rotate and fluff up
the seat cushions if your sofa or armchair is looking a little flat. Splash out on a couple of Christmassy cushions as a cheery finishing touch.
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By Boo Caesar sofa table, £85, Cuckooland
8 ADD AN EXTRA TABLE OR TWO
Un-lit Peruvian pine tree, £199; clip-on bird baubles, £7.50 each; decorations, from a selection, all John Lewis & Partners
6 SUPERSIZE YOUR DECS Make a statement with larger-than-life decorations to adorn the tree. Place lights and bigger ornaments first, then fill gaps with smaller baubles.
7 WALLPAPER AN ALCOVE Warm up a living room by adding an accent wallpaper in a rich red or burnt orange. Try it in an alcove area, which shouldn’t take more than one or two rolls.
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Apple wallpaper in Rust Gold, £59 a roll, Morris & Co at Style Library
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Clear coffee tables of clutter and have a couple of side tables on standby that you can pull out to set drinks or party nibbles on when you’re entertaining. Go for a versatile piece like this one that’ll double up as a laptop perch the rest of the time.
STYLE & DECOR Milo stool, from ÂŁ230, Neptune
9 SLOT IN AN EXTRA SEAT Make space for more guests around the dining table by having a stash of spare seats that you can grab as needed. Chairs that stack or fold at in a cupboard are ideal, or try a longline bench or stool as a temporary solution.
10 GO FULL-ON WITH FESTIVE FOLIAGE Decorate shelves and surfaces with swags of winter greenery. Start with larger branches first, securing with wire, add a string or two of micro lights, then fill any gaps with berry sprigs.
Pom-pom garland, £15; light-up house, £10; Forest Dawn tableware, from £3 for a side plate; glasses, £3.50 each; faux stem, £4, all Sainsbury’s Home
STYLE & DECOR
11 GET THE SPARE ROOM GUESTREADY Give the spare bedroom a mini makeover so you’re prepared should family and friends sleep over. Add festive bedding and leave out a basket of mini toiletries and treats to make guests feel welcome.
12 SPREAD CHRISTMAS CHEER Bring sparkle to a plain pane by adding a cheery window greeting. This easy-toapply etched sticker comes as a cut-to-size sheet and is removable so you can pack it away ready to reuse next year.
Brushed Woodland double duvet set, £31, Argos
13 ROUND UP BEDROOM CLUTTER
Merry Christmas window sticker, £5.99, Ginger Ray
Find a home for random bits and pieces, such as scarves, belts and bags that often end up hooked over the back of a door. Try an ottoman slotted in at the end of a bed or, if space is tight, go for a dressing table stool with storage inside.
Storage stool, £25, George Home
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STYLE & DECOR
14 MAKE A HANGING GARLAND
Grey wicker tree skirt, £15; red baubles, £5 for 30; gold baubles, £5 for 30, all Dunelm
Try your hand at an easy overhead centrepiece, using a wicker tree skirt as your framework. Decorate with greenery and hanging baubles then suspend from the ceiling.
15 SWAG CHAIRS WITH GREENERY Add festive finishing touches to make the dining table look extra Christmassy. Use spare remnants of fabric – hessian is ideal – cut into lengths long enough to loop over a chair back. Add a swag of foliage and a bauble.
Light up brush trees forest, £60, Cox & Cox
Woodbridge hanging stars, £10 for four; spindle-back chair, £170, both Garden Trading
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16 TRY AN INSTANT TABLE FILLER Style the dining table (or line a mantel) with
this forest-themed centrepiece. Easy to lift on or off if you need more table space, it’s set with mini brush trees fitted with twinkly LED lights so it’ll look great after dark.
17 JOLLY UP A FIREPLACE Make use of an empty picture frame or broken
Redford round basket, £50; Needle felt tree decorations, from £8; Heddon brass candlesticks, from £45, all Neptune
mirror for an easy mantel arrangement. Ensure any backing is safely removed, prop the frame on the ledge, then decorate with greenery and a sparkly bauble or two.
STYLE & DECOR
18
LED stag, £15; small lantern, £10; large lantern, £20; all Matalan
LIGHT THE WAY INSIDE Forget naff novelty lights and keep it chic this season. Trad floor-standing lanterns look super classy… or, for a touch of kitsch, try this subtle LED stag.
19 COUNT DOWN WITH CANDLES
FEATURE LISA FAZZANI PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Make your own advent display using simple white candles. Write numbers directly onto the wax using a black Sharpie pen and stand candles in mini bucket planters filled with sand. Metal buckets, £1 each, Hobbycraft
20 DON’T FORGET THE DETAILS Thoughtful finishing touches can make all the difference, such as personalised place settings or afterdinner favours. These Christmas tree cutlery holders are an easy buy, or try making something similar yourself using coloured felt.
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Christmas tree cutlery holder, £3 for four, Matalan
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
STEP BY STEP The experts at Hillarys are there to guide you
CUSTOM-MADE
A PASSION FOR DETAIL
Curtains and blinds are made to order
Find inspirational fabrics and custom-made designs at Hillarys
DESIGN VALUES Senior product manager Yvonne Keal and local advisor Kevin Andrews took George through the whole process from selecting designs and measuring up in a customer’s home to the careful cutting, stitching and
“
stringent quality checks in the factory, then he watched the curtains being expertly hung and the pleats steamed for a perfect finish. George got to chat to interior designer and home stylist Anna Straw about her experience with Hillarys. ‘A local advisor was able to show me on the iPad how the blinds would actually look in the rooms, which was really helpful and there were lots of samples to look at,’ she told him. ‘The fabrics are amazing and the service all along was just great.’ FINE DETAILING With a UK-wide network of trained advisors, Hillarys offers a personal service. On a home visit, an advisor will show you
When it comes to home transformations, your windows are key
”
a full range of inspirational fabrics and come up with suggestions for blinds and curtains for a look that’s just right for your home and budget. Once the fabrics are selected, you can personalise your design with custom options for linings and headings before they are made to your exact requirements, delivered and fitted – perfection guaranteed.
DID YOU KNOW?
You can see the full range of products at hillarys.co.uk or call 0800 278 2164 to book a free in-home appointment.
WORDS CAROLINE RODRIGUES
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hen architect and TV presenter George Clarke called in at the Hillarys factory in Nottingham, it was obvious that he and the company were on the same track regarding great design and attention to detail. ‘Choosing the right window dressing can make a massive difference in any room, and it’s so important to get everything just right,’ says George.
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We’re in love!
RETRO CHIC
Confetti Pink Edwardian basin with pedestal, £798, Burlington Bathrooms
It’s traditional, but not as you know it. Bespoke By Burlington has heralded a new era of bathroom design with a collection that combines classic silhouettes with bolder colours. Basins and loos come in striking shades of Moon Grey, Alaska Blue and Confetti Pink.
KITCHEN & BATHROOM UPDATE
LIGHTTASTIC! Bathroom lighting has upped its game in the last few years but stylish designs can often still burn a hole in your pocket. Until now, that is. Homeware retailer Houseof has launched a new range of IP44 rated lights that score high on good looks and are at prices that won’t have you dreading your next bank statement. Charcoal Grey angled ceiling light, £160, Houseof
Our roundup of the most interesting new products and innovations
Splash out After a mid-century modern look? One piece will deliver it direct to your wash space – the Tile ceramic basin and stand, part of a new collection by Ceramica Globo. Also available in different finishes.
FEATURE BUSOLA EVANS
Tile collection, from £1,343.59 Ceramica Globo
On our wish list...
Matki-One’s pivot shower enclosure now comes in new 1400 and 1500mm sizes. Prices start from £924, Matki
MOVE TO THE DARK SIDE Caesarstone has launched a collection of dark surface shades to meet the growing demand for moodier kitchens and bathrooms. The latest additions are durable, scratch and stain-resistant and can be cut to fit any space. Empira Black, £550sq m, Caesarstone IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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‘It’s great for gatherings’
Rebecca and Kenny MacDonald extended their small, dark kitchen to create a space for family time and bigger get-togethers
Love
REBECCA’S STYLE? Turn to page 119 to shop the look
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KITCHEN PROJECT
BEFORE PENDANT TRIO Highlights the large island
Welcome to my home Rebecca MacDonald lives here with her husband Kenny and their three-year-old son, Bryce.
THE PROPERTY ‘The cabinetry is a dark indigo colour. I chose a matt finish that would make it look more like living room furniture. A gloss finish could have been too reflective, as there’s already lots of glass. We had bought the amber glass pendant shades before we started the project and they make a great counterpoint to the dark cabinets. It’s a sociable space where we can entertain and enjoy being together as a family.’ Cabinets, £8,000, Pronorm
An end-of-terrace house, built in 1913, in Glasgow.
WHAT IT COST Cabinetry.............£8,000 Worktops.............£3,000 Sink..........................£450 Tap.........................£1,600 Appliances...........£5,875 Flooring...............£6,000 Lighting...................£500 TOTAL...............£25,425
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We wanted to create a fun, open-plan family space while our son was still little
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HOW REBECCA AND KENNY DID IT ‘We bought the house in 2013 and lived with it as it was until our son was born in 2016, when we realised that we wanted it to be more open and spacious. You could not see the garden from the kitchen, and we wanted something more contemporary and less formal. We worked with a local architect, Karen Parry, and in 2018 extended out into the garden. The new space has lots of glazing, so is full of natural
PLANT STANDS Perfect for dressing a bare corner
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light. There’s also underfloor heating – so no need for radiators, which saves a lot of space. Because the room doubles as a living space and entertaining area, it was important that it didn’t look too “kitcheny”, so we added artwork, statement lighting and fun decorative accessories. The project was ambitious – it took nearly five months – but we are delighted; it’s so welcoming and easy to live in.’
BELOW ‘Thanks to the bifolds and the roof light, the kitchen is so light you feel like you are outside. You get a hint of the garden wherever you are. The flooring runs through from the hall to create flow.’ Table, £899, Made. Masters chairs, £145 each, Kartell. LVT herringbone flooring in Caste oak, £32sq m, Moduleo
KITCHEN PROJECT
MIRROR SPLASHBACK Lightens the dark cabinetry ABOVE ‘The boiling water tap is extremely efficient for cooking. We chose one with a custom powder-coated finish.’ Worktop in Snowy Ibiza, £640lin m, Silestone. Sublime granite inset sink, £450, Blanco. FlexTap, £1,600, Quooker. Similar splashback, £350sq m, Glass Splashbacks Direct
FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY PHOTOGRAPHS PLUCK KITCHENS
LEFT Instead of an intrusive chimney-style extractor, the couple went for a pop-up design. ‘It’s vented and extremely powerful. Good ventilation is important for entertaining and an overhead extractor would look too utilitarian.’ Hob with downdraft extractor, £2,500, Siemens
ABOVE ‘The deep island drawers give capacious storage for cutlery, crockery and utensils. We’ve found that handle-free doors collect grubby fingerprints, so we chose metal handles that add a variation in texture to the room.’ Grace yellow glass pendant shades, £169 each, Heal’s
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
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Things cost more than you think they will. Small essentials really add up and the larger essentials are pricey if they’re good quality and you want them to last
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Thinking of a new kitchen? There’s no better place to start than here. VISIT YOUR LOCAL, INDEPENDENT KBSA APPROVED RETAILER TODAY Your local Kbsa Approved Retailer is a great place to start when planning and purchasing your new kitchen. They offer inspiration, advice and guidance together with an extensive selection of quality kitchen cabinetry, work surfaces and appliances. All of which, can be integrated together to create a unique, bespoke kitchen just for you. In association with Quooker, the tap that does it all, 100°C boiling, hot, cold, chilled and sparkling water.
For details of your nearest member, simply visit www.kbsa.org.uk/approved-retailers or call 01623 818808 When asked where you heard about us please quote IDEAL HOME
Setting the standard for kitchens, bathrooms & bedrooms
100°C boiling, chilled & sparkling water. The tap that does it all.
KITCHEN PROJECT
Make it work for you REBECCA’S STYLE: MODERN CHARACTER
Bright accents pop against the dark cabinetry to give this contemporary kitchen a warm and eclectic finish Colourful artwork and accessories help to soften the clean lines
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GREAT DEAL
COMPLETE YOUR SINK STYLING WITH A BLACK TAP
FEATURE CASSIE PRYCE
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£199.95
SMOOTH CURVES
MATT FINISH
Grohe Minta mixer tap, £199.95, Victorian Plumbing
Cooke & Lewis Katiki pin side lever mixer tap, £53, B&Q
WHERE TO BUY 1 Edna lamp shade in Chartreuse, £35, Made 2 Large Monstera Deliciosa, £38, Leaf Envy 3 Kartell Masters chair in Mustard, £177, Heal’s 4 Designer’s Choice DC335 The Gardenia flooring, from £70sq m, Amtico 5 Ekedalen extendable table in White, £179, Ikea 6 Brompton canister, £13, Garden Trading 7 Bamboo chopping board worktop overlay, £20, John Lewis & Partners
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ULTRA-MODERN LIGHTS Disrupt the traditional look of the room
‘We worked with its natural character’ Jean and Stephen Field carefully chose styles, colours and textures that would enhance, not fight, their converted barn’s architecture
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KITCHEN PROJECT
BEFORE
Welcome to my home Jean Field lives here with her husband Stephen.
THE PROPERTY A three-bedroom, 19th-century barn conversion near Canterbury in Kent.
WHAT IT COST
‘Warm, natural colours and textures make this such an inviting room. I love the benches, which were made from leftover worktop, and really enjoy cooking in here. We often have 12 or more people over for a meal!’ Kitchen (including oak worktops, dishwasher, sinks and taps), £25,000, Howdens
Units, sink, taps, wooden worktop, dishwasher......£25,000 Quartz worktop.............£2,300 Range................£2,650 Floor tiles..............£600 Fridge-freezer...£2,350 Steam oven...........£750 TOTAL.............£33,650
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This is a warm, familycentred room where you can sit and chat
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‘I considered dark worktops, but neutral is better. We went for light oak, with soft-sheen pale quartz on the island, which is really easy to keep looking good.’ Quartz worktop, £575sq m, Howdens. For similar pendants, try Original BTC
WINE STORAGE The perfect way to fill a few spare inches
HOW JEAN AND STEPHEN DID IT ‘This huge 8x4.3m space was originally a tractor shed. Nothing in the kitchen matched and a very unreliable 1960s oil range made it non-functioning. My daughter Annabel (interioraid.com) helped with the design. We didn’t think a cream or grey kitchen would work as it’s a sunny room, so we chose cashmere. A builder fitted the units and there was a delay when the island was wrongly positioned by 1m. The project took three months and cost £6,500. I love the space. We wanted to celebrate and respect the building, and the muted design does that.’
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KITCHEN PROJECT
STONEEFFECT TILES Natural, rustic style for a rural property
ABOVE This is the utility side of the room. ‘There is a set of bins here and the drawers opposite have been designed to hold dishcloths and towels.’ The boiling-water tap alongside the normal tap makes a kettle unnecessary. Fridge-freezer, £2,350, Ao.com
FEATURE IFEOLUWA ADEDEJI PHOTOGRAPHS COLIN POOLE
ABOVE ‘An efficient range cooker has replaced the outdated Aga, so now we don’t have to have the range on all the time. We don’t have gas, so it’s electric, and the three ovens give us loads of cooking space.’ Nexus range cooker, £2,650, Rangemaster. Wall tiles, around £30sq m, Tile Giant
RIGHT ‘A full-height built-in pantry with adjustable shelving is a one-stop shop for whoever’s cooking and it keeps the kitchen well organised and efficient.’ For similar drawer pulls, try More Handles. Walls in Egyptian Cotton matt emulsion, £25 for 2.5ltr, Dulux
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
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There’s no need to go to the expense of bespoke cabinetry; if you’re creative with off-the-shelf units it is possible to achieve a comparable look for less
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Love
JEAN’S STORAGE PANTRY? Turn to page 125 to shop the look
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KITCHEN PROJECT
Make it work for you
JEAN’S CHOICE: A STORE-IT-ALL LARDER UNIT A larder provides invaluable extra storage space in your kitchen, full of clever solutions hidden behind closed doors
DRESSER OF DREAMS Set up a home bar in the larder section of this storage cupboard. Somerton storage cupboard in Baltic Green, from £6,800, Kitchen Makers
COUNTRY VIBE Perfect as a baking cupboard there’s space for dry ingredients, mixing bowls and tins. Rhubard larder cupboard, £854, Loaf
CLEAN LINES Contemporary kitchen? This sleek design is the perfect larder partner. Linear larder, from £4,000, Harvey Jones
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FEATURE JENNIFER MORGAN
CLEVER SOLUTION Turn the tightest space into a larder this design can be made to fit your dimensions. Corner larder in hand-painted finish, £1,584, John Willies
KITCHEN KIT-OUT Organise your bulk buys in style with this classic larder. Butler’s pantry, from £1,150, LochAnna Kitchens
Pantries and larders are starting to be seen as ‘must haves’ – a trend that will likely grow as the space’s functionality becomes more diverse
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PAUL JENKINSON, LOCHANNA KITCHENS
STORE IT ALL Stack up your dried food against a mint green backdrop in this four shelf larder. Bromley larder cupboard in Mint and Grey, £299, Made
HIDDEN DELIGHTS Open the doors to find a storage lover’s dream, with shelves, racks and drawers. Sussex Storm Grey double larder, £1,099, The Cotswold Company
NEW TWIST Use the lower shelf section of this smart cabinet to store home grown produce. Ardingly cabinet with shelf in Olive, £1,880, Neptune
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‘It’s a little slice of luxury!’ Maria and Fred Jude wanted the ultimate parents-only retreat, so indulged themselves with wall-to-wall, hotel-worthy glamour
Love
MARIA AND FRED’S STYLE? Turn to page 131 to shop the look
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BATHROOM PROJECT
BEFORE
MIRRORED SURFACE More light, more sparkle
Welcome to our home Maria Jude lives here with her husband Fred and their children Marcus, 20, Leanna, 17, and Miles, 14.
THE PROPERTY A five-bedroom detached 1960s house in north London.
WHAT IT COST
‘Our vision was a modern, clean-looking space and I think we achieved that. We used the same tiles on walls and floor for a seamless look, while underfloor heating keeps it cosy.’ For similar bath, try April Danby, £820, Bella Bathrooms
Bath......................£2,250 Tiles.......................£3,150 Shower....................£750 Loo...........................£850 Taps.........................£550 Vanity unit...........£2,350 Wall lights...............£850 Shutters..................£200 Towel rail.................£450 Mirror.....................£1,750 TOTAL.................£13,150
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It’s wonderful to have this space to relax in at the end of the day
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BATHROOM PROJECT
HOW MARIA AND FRED DID IT… ‘The bathroom wasn’t to our taste – it was tired and dated with cream walls and beige furniture. We wanted to update it and make it modern, so after looking through magazines and getting inspiration from new-build houses we’d seen, we found a builder. We’d liked a project that had a lowered ceiling and were keen to do the same here, so we could integrate lighting and speakers. Although
WIDE BASIN Enables two people to use it at once
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the room is a good size, we widened it, taking out a chimney to make space for a shower; we also fitted a sliding pocket door to save space and give a neater finish. We wanted a large vanity unit and fell for this black vanity on sight, with its elegant chrome fittings. Teaming it with marbleeffect tiles on the floor and walls, plus a statement freestanding bath, has given us a sleek room that we’re so proud of.’
FEATURE AND STYLING LAURIE DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHS TONY TIMMINGTON
BELOW ‘The vanity unit contrasts with the tiles and gives us plenty of storage. And the basin is super-wide, so it doesn’t look lost.’ Jagger unit, £973, Maisons du Monde, is similar. Basin and taps, from a selection, Tiles and Baths Direct
ABOVE ‘We went for modern chrome fittings that work well with the smart grey tiles, while the niche gives us a spot for showering products. It’s smarter than shelving and has a light inside.’ Marble-effect tiles, for similar, try Capella Gloss Carrara marble-effect tiles, £29.95sq m, Walls and Floors
WHAT WE’VE LEARNED
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Why bathroom fitters apportion the cost of their labour to the cost of the fittings, as more complicated and expensive features require more time and skill
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YOUR
DREAM BATHROOM STARTS WITH A CLICK
Simply click to bathrooms.com and make an appointment for a safe face to face design consultation in one of our 250 showrooms or meet our designer online from the comfort of your own home. Our experts will produce your free 3D design and plan so you can see your dream bathroom brought to life. Whether you’re dreaming of a haven of relaxation or somewhere to make a splash with the kids, with thousands of products and suites to choose from, we’ll help you find your dream bathroom.
www.bathrooms.com
AT
www.bathrooms.com
BATHROOM PROJECT
Make it work for you MARIA AND FRED’S STYLE: MONO LUXE
Marble-effect tiles, chrome fittings and a monochrome vanity ooze glamour when teamed with a sleek sink-into bath
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Wall to wall tiles add a luxe feel
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IDEAL
GREAT DEAL
MAKE A BIG IMPACT WITH LARGE FORMAT TILES
£29.95 sq m
FEATURE LAURIE DAVIDSON
£69.95 sq m
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POLISHED FINISH
FINE LINES
Marmi Classico Bianco Carrara polished porcelain, £69.95sq m, Original Style
Cappella Gloss Carrara marble-effect porcelain, £29.95sq m, Walls & Floors
WHERE TO BUY 1 Pelipal Leonardo 109 vanity cabinet, £2,532, InHouse Inspired Room Design 2 Forum Apus circular LED mirror, £78.70, Victorian Plumbing 3 Arcade LED bathroom oval base wall light with Silver chiffon shade, £146, Sanctuary Bathrooms 4 Vivid heated towel rail, from £692, Vogue UK 5 Supreme Hygro towels in Orchid, from £4, Christy 6 Stream double-ended bath, £1,795, Waters Baths of Ashbourne IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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welcome to the world of
The one-stop edit of the best modern style inspiration and design ideas
BEFORE & AFTER
‘We added to an existing extension’
BEFORE
AFTER
Adam Oakley and Alex Kuciejewska needed more space and light, but didn’t want to build a run-of-the-mill glass box extension…
A
dam and Alex knew this house would need a lot of work from the get-go: ‘It had been rented for 20 years with no investment in it,’ says Adam. We would lie in bed and listen to the rain coming through the roof and dripping onto the ceiling above our heads!’ Getting it up to scratch was a priority. ‘Plus, as a young family, we wanted to maximise the footprint.’ WISH LIST The couple were keen to push the boundaries: ‘We wanted something unusual – a feature that would make our mark. We also wanted a layout that would flow from the front to the back and out to the garden, so we could seamlessly transition from one space to another.’ BIG PLANS The couple hired architect Mick Haley (thegentleman architect.com) and he planned a loft conversion and a kitchen-diner extension with a glazed roof that lets light pour in and gives a view up to the top floor. The original extension was rebuilt to create a cantilevered structure in the space. ‘It would have been cheaper to put in a beam or column, but it’s my favourite feature,’ says Adam. FOREVER HOME The extension provides the flexible family space they had hoped for. ‘The children shuttle between the kitchen and garden. Having lived in unrenovated properties before, it’s great to have everything working perfectly here. Having said that, I wouldn’t want to do it all again – we’re never moving from here!’
The ex-rental property was run down and dark inside
A glazed extension was built around an existing two-storey extension, enlarging the kitchen and linking the indoor and outdoor spaces
Welcome to our home WHO LIVES HERE
THE VALUE Bought in
Alex Kuciejewska, a doctor, Adam Oakley, a management consultant, Poppy, 12, and Jacob, nine.
2013 for £750,000; now worth around £1.6m.
THE PROPERTY A five-bed Victorian terrace in north London.
WHAT IT COST Building work.................... ...........................£370,000 Steelwork..........£20,000 Glazing...............£54,000 Flooring................£5,000
Kitchen...............£35,000 Bathrooms........£25,000 TOTAL.............£509,000
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Even in winter, we love sitting in this bright spot, sunning ourselves
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BEFORE & AFTER
‘I love the openness that the glazing and the cantilever of the original extension have created’
‘It’s wonderful to be in here cooking while Alex is gardening and still be able to interact with each other. The whole space blends’
5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT…
CANTILEVERED STRUCTURES Mick Haley of The Gentleman Architect gives us the lowdown
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THEY ACCOMMODATE WIDE CORNER OPENINGS A structural engineer can design a cantilever system to make sure the corner is supported and doesn’t move too much for the glass doors beneath. AN UPPER STOREY COMPLICATES THINGS If the corner is going in an existing wall with storeys above, you can support the load above on props, while the beams or box frames are installed. When they are removed, the load will settle onto the beams. YOU CAN CREATE ZONES Using a different colour or material beneath a cantilevered structure will underline the absence of the supporting corner. IT CREATES AN OPEN FEEL A flush threshold with the outside surface blurs the definition between indoor and outdoor, making the garden and the interior feel like one large room. YOU CAN HIGHLIGHT THE DESIGN Intumescent paint has come on leaps and bounds so you can expose the steel beams, even highlighting them with LED strip lights.
The old extension was rebuilt as a floating structure over the island
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
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It’s hard to prioritise and let go of the smaller details that no-one else is really going to notice, but there’s no point in being too obsessive about things
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FEATURE REBECCA FOSTER PHOTOGRAPHS DAVID BUTLER
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TIME TO SLOW DOWN FOR SUPER SOUPS C
Searching for a sense of calm among the madness of the festive season? Here’s where you should be looking
ooked with delicious local ingredients and packed with fragrant, comforting flavours, Baxters’ tinned soups make taking time for yourself this season not only simple, but even more pleasurable. Think of the familiar aroma of a classic soup cooking on the hob. Scotch Broth, perhaps? Maybe it takes you back to cold winter nights as a child, or family meals around the table. There’s just something about those flavours, loaded with comfort, that transports you to another place in time, while making everything else melt away for a moment.
Baxters knows how evocative tastes and aromas can be – people have been enjoying their soups for over 100 years. That’s why many of the flavours found in the Favourites range have stayed true to their original recipes. These are soups to slow down for, to savour.
Ingredients come from neighbouring Scottish growers and suppliers, many of whom have been working with Baxters for decades, while inspiration is garnered from all around – from up-to-the-minute trends that are changing the way we eat, to the most beloved long-held traditions.
Every soup recipe is tasted by Audrey Baxter, the fourth generation to take the reins of this 152-year-old family business. Keeping her great-grandfather – founder, George Baxter – and his values in mind, ‘Be Different, Be Better’, Audrey and her team ensure the right balance of tradition and innovation in their soups.
The result? Recipes that are satisfying, nutritious and taste just like homemade meals. They’re well worth carving out time to sit down with – no matter how crazy the festive season becomes. So push that wrapping paper aside, and make room on the table.
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
TIME OUT Sit down with a delicious bowl of Baxters soup
Find Baxters soups at your supermarket, on the tinned goods aisle baxters.com
WORDS JESSICA CARTER
FOR MORE INFORMATION...
Genius problem solvers FOR A SMOOTH-RUNNING LIFE Our pick of the latest festive home innovations, storage solutions and celebratory stuff you never knew you needed… FESTIVE DOORMATS FOR CLEAN CARPETS & FLOORS
Make life easier with a pre-lit tree Can’t be faffed with stringing up loads of fairy lights on the tree this year? Save yourself time and hassle with this pre-lit tree from Cox & Cox. Super-realistic hinged branches that fall into place, together with a whopping 900 twinkling LED lights, ensure this beauty will take you mere minutes to assemble, giving you more time to relax with your feet up. Ultimate pre-lit Christmas tree, £595, Cox & Cox
FANCY FOOTWORK This smart number comes in two sizes. Tree doormat, £10, Garden Trading
SAY THE WORDS A fab festive greeting for every visitor. Merry Christmas doormat, £20, Cox & Cox
Send Christmas cards via your phone Avoid the shops and post office this year by sending your cards via Moonpig’s brilliant smartphone app. Choose your card, add a message and hit post. Genius. Store your opened wine safely The silicone seal of this neat stopper expands to fit the bottle perfectly, meaning that you can store it on its side, too. OXO Good Grips expanding stainless steel wine stopper, £12, John Lewis & Partners
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SUPER STAR Also available in grey. Star doormat, £19.95, Mint & May
Get instant party prints If you’re more partial to physical photos than on-screen memories, this pocket-sized and portable printer is for you. Hi-Print photo pocket printer, £89.99, Polaroid
SIMPLE SOLUTIONS SMART TREE SKIRTS TO HIDE UNSIGHTLY STANDS
Light up with the flick of a switch Go wireless with your lighting this season by decorating your tree, mantel or staircase with Lights4Fun’s genius TruGlow candles. Named TruGlow because the flickering faux flames look just like the real thing, each candle is wireless, clips on to a branch or wire from the base and can be switched on and off using the handy remote control. TruGlow Christmas remote control candle clips in Ivory, £39.99 for set of 10, Lights4Fun
1 Get some help in the kitchen
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1 Antique brass finish tree skirt, £50, Garden Trading 2 Bucket with handle tree ring, £30, Amara 3 Willow tree ring, £29.99, Dobbies
Part mini oven, part mini grill, the new Foodi Max is a kitchen countertop hero that can roast, grill, bake, air fry and even dehydrate food quickly. Foodi Max health grill & air fryer, £249.99, Ninja
Clean carpet stains in a flash Wave goodbye to red wine stains, thanks to the SpotlessGo mini carpet cleaner, £149.99, Vax
Choose the gift wrap that keeps on giving Up the ante with your present presentation while saving on paper waste, with beautiful fabric gift wrap. Folds reusable organic cotton gift wrap, £16, Notonthehighstreet.com
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Fill your home with Christmas scents EP
The trade off in having an artificial tree is that you lose out on the instantly festive scent of pine. Ensure your home smells its best with help from the experts at Jo Malone. Pine & Eucalyptus diffuser, £64; Pine & Eucalyptus room spray, £48; Pine & Eucalyptus home candle, £49, all Jo Malone London
ALL S T
FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI
ON
Try alternative festive headgear If you’ve decided to forgo crackers this year or just fancy a posher alternative to those easily torn paper crowns, check these out. Made from cardboard in four different designs, they’re just the thing to spruce up your table settings (and guests). Pop-out crowns, £28 for four, The Shop Floor Project
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YOUR LIVING ROOM, SORTED It can be hard to relax when you’re faced with crammed shelves and cluttered surfaces as you settle down to watch a box set… so bring order with a timely tidy-up
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SIMPLE SOLUTIONS
5 GAME-CHANGING BUYS The products you need to sort, store and organise, so all your living room essentials are to hand and not hidden
WHAT THE PROS KNOW… Professional organiser Vicky Silverthorn gives us her tried and tested living room tidying solutions…
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FREE YOUR MIND Lived in by day but tidy by night is my golden rule. Visual distractions (too many things in our sight line) can make it hard to switch off as we’re processing everything we see all of the time, whether we realise it or not. CREATE ORDER Things left lying out on a coffee table can look messy, such as remote controls, but simply adding a tray is a game changer, as items look intentionally placed and instantly neater.
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FEATURE LISA FAZZANI
THE ‘EASY-STACK’ SYSTEM Start small or scale it up a modular system will give you the flexibility to do both. This stacking system comes in various configurations and has magnetic fixings so it’s easy to arrange, or rearrange, should you need to. BOB storage system, from £240 for a single cube unit, Bisley
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THE ‘SECRET’ STORAGE Find a home for remote controls, coasters or any other essentials you need within grabbing distance of the sofa. These three nesting tables can be used separately or slotted together, with the smallest
doubling as a handy hideout for all your odds and ends. Granboda nest of three tables, £50, Ikea
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THE STOWAWAY FOOTSTOOL Double up with an ottoman that’s also a handy storage space, thanks to its lift up lid. It’s ideal for stashing away all those bulky bits and pieces that you don’t want out on show, such as throws and cuddly toys. Cubos footstool, £329, Sofology
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THE ‘BUNG-IT-IN’ BASKET Invest in a sturdy basket or tub that can tuck under a table
or next to the sofa. A brilliant clutter catcher for books, magazines, iPads or knitting, just chuck everything in at the end of the evening for a speedy tidy-up. Snidad basket, £25, Ikea
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THE MODULAR MEDIA UNITS Go for multifunctional TV and media storage that will house all your essentials in one hit. This off the peg option has the look of a bespoke built in, but comes in ready painted top and bottom sections that can be arranged to suit your space, big or small. Modular bookcase, from £345 for a single unit, The Dormy House
KEEP OR DUMP? Often we hold on to things for no real reason. Stacks of CDs and DVDs take up a lot of space but can easily be downloaded. As long as you can find your favourite films somewhere online, then perhaps the physical items aren’t needed. CUT OUT THE CLUTTER If shelves are so full that it puts you off giving them a regular dust, then you might have gone overboard with the knick-knacks. The less you have out, the easier it is to keep surfaces clean. Find out more at youneedavicky.com or on Instagram and Facebook @youneedavicky
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What better way to frame your festive Christmas porch or doorway than with this pair of elegant Holly bushes? THESE gorgeous holly bushes are a brand new variety, specially-bred to produce an abundance of berries – they look stunning from the moment you plant them and get even better year after year! With a bluish tinge to the deep, evergreen, classic holly leaves and masses of rich, red berries, this pair of 1m tall bushes will set off your Christmas displays in style! These well-established 4-year old trees are slower growing and easy to manage – just one trim a year will keep that perfect lollipop standard tree form. Each pair is supplied with an equally impressive pair of classic 28cm diameter Festive Pinecone Planters, in gold metallic paint, for maximum impact guaranteed! SAVE £10 with offer code IH113 and we’ll send your 2 FREE decorative pots worth over £14.99 with your order!
0.81m TALL
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Pair of 0.8-1m Tall Standard Holly Trees £10.00 Off PLUS 2 Free Pots Worth £14.99
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EXTRA OFFER Tulip ‘Springtime Doubles’ Mix These spectacular double flowering tulips are also know as ‘Peony Tulips’ for the close resemblance that their sweetly scented, blousy blooms bear to that early summer favourite.They’ll bloom from April, through May, bringing a dramatic splash of colour to your garden. ITEM CODE - 600200
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JUST £5.99 SAVE £3.00 Offer available while stocks last. © YouGarden Ltd 2020
www.YouGarden.com/IH113 IH113 Calls cost 5p per min plus your network’s access charge. or by post using coupon below to: Offer IH113 YouGarden, PO Box 1468, Peterborough, PE1 9XL USE CODE
PLEASE SEND TO: Offer IH113, YouGarden, PO Box 1468, YOUR PAYMENT DETAILS I enclose a cheque/Postal Order payable to YouGarden (name & address on back) for £ Peterborough, PE1 9XL Or charge my Visa / Mastercard / Maestro card: YOUR ORDER DETAILS Card Issue Item Description Price Qty Subtotal No. No. Pair of Holly Standards - 0.8-1m Tall Trees Start Exp 510186 £49.96 Date Date was £59.96 - SAVE £10.00! DELIVERY DETAILS Plus 2 FREE Festive Decoration Pots SAVE £14.99! £14.99 FREE! Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss Initial Surname These special offers go perfectly with your Standard Holly Trees Address Tulip ‘Springtime Doubles’ Mix - 20 x Bulbs 600200 £5.99 Postcode SAVE £3.00! Email JOIN THE YOUGARDEN CLUB - Get £20.00 FREE If you do not wish to receive catalogues & offers vouchers & SAVE 10% on EVERY ITEM you order! Tel from us, please tick here [ ]. 820005 Renewal Subscription Membership*: SAVE £15.00! 820001 1 Year Membership: SAVE £10.00!
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DON’T FORGET: Deduct 10% (10p in every £1) if you joined the YouGarden Club: *We’ll automatically renew your membership every year, so you can keep saving AND the price will NEVER go up... GUARANTEED! Full details at YouGarden.com/Club. Offer subject to availability and in the event that this offer is oversubscribed, we reserve the right to send suitable substitutes. Delivery to UK only and a £6.00 surcharge will apply to the following postcode areas: AB, BT, DD8 11, GY, HS, IM, IV, JE, KA27 28, KW, PA20 80, PH19 50, TR21 25 & ZE. See website for full terms & conditions.
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1 If you’re not totally happy with your or return it within 30 days and we’ll replac refund in full. 2 Should any hardy plants fail to thrive th we’ll replace free of charge.You just pay Peter McDermott, Head Gardener
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IH113
SIMPLE SOLUTIONS Best home cinema TV
Panasonic TX-65HZ1000, £2,400 This Panasonic TV is built around a master OLED panel. Hues are rich, but not ridiculous, contrast is filmic and details are super sharp. It also comes with Filmmaker Mode, a Hollywoodapproved cinema image preset, with Intelligent Sensing and Dolby Vision IQ. THE BEST BIT The set is beautifully built, with a high-quality finish and a super thin bezel. It even swivels.
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EXPERT TIP
‘Want to hang your TV? LG calls its GX OLED TVs the Gallery range, because they’re designed to be hung like paintings’ STEVE MAY, TECHNOLOGY JOURNALIST
TOP TVS TO GATHER AROUND The screens that will give you the picture and sound quality you want for family movie nights this festive season. Gather the troops, load up on popcorn and snuggle up under a blanket for a cinema-style experience at home…
Samsung UE50TU8500, £449 It’s easy to see the appeal of the top-selling Crystal UHD TVs. They’re competitively priced, look good, and have all the smart toys you might need. The set runs Samsung’s Tizen platform, one of the best served when it comes to smart features. THE BEST BIT The picture has plenty of visual appeal, with rich colours and snappy contrast.
Best 55-inch TV
Hisense B7500, £299 Priced under the ULED models, this is big on value and performance. We like Hisense’s Vidaa U interface as it keeps things simple. Ultra Smooth Motion processing maximises clarity during fast moving scenes – making it a great choice for gamers and sports fans. THE BEST BIT It’s fantastic value for a flatscreen.
FEATURE STEVE MAY
Best 50-inch TV
Best budget 58-inch TV
TCL 50C715K, £399 The TCL brand may not be a household name, but this manufacturer is huge on the global TV stage, which makes this feature-rich TV well worth a look. It uses QLED panel technology, more commonly found on Samsung’s high-end TV offerings, coupled to the latest Android smart platform.
Toshiba 58-inch U2963 LED 4k, £350 If you’re seeking a big 4K TV at an irresistibly small price, then this budget offering from Toshiba takes some beating. The U29 offers extremely sharp images, with vibrant colour and a good level of overall brightness.
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THE BEST BIT All things considered, this is an astonishingly high-value screen.
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
143
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SIMPLE SOLUTIONS Go virtual! Oculus Quest 64GB, £399, Currys Unlike previous VR headsets, this all-in-one design does not need to be plugged into a PC, giving you the freedom to immerse yourself in fun new worlds, captain the Starship Enterprise, fight Darth Vader, or even work in a pizza restaurant (it’s more fun than it sounds!) THE BEST BIT It can stream events and NASA launches like you were there.
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‘Make the most of parental controls that enable you to set timers and block unauthorised game downloads’
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BUY THE BEST GAMES CONSOLE
What was once a hobby for bored teenagers is now a global industry worth $90 billion a year, but thankfully the latest consoles are more inclusive than ever, with games available for all ages and interests, plus they can stream TV services, too
Switch, £279.99, Nintendo A versatile, amazingly fun console for the whole family that plugs into your TV for big screen action, can be used as a compact tabletop console using the Joy Con controllers, or taken anywhere as a handheld games system. THE BEST BIT It concentrates on games that are quick to pick up and hard to stop playing.
T he greatest games PlayStation 5, £449.99, Sony As well as a library of world famous, brilliantly inventive games to choose from, the latest PlayStation console also features incredible speed, new, super-responsive controllers and 4K Blu-ray, while the Pulse 3D headset offers immersive 3D audio. THE BEST BIT Although it comes with 825GB of internal memory, it’s easy to expand it further, too.
T he retro choice
For serious gamers
Mega Drive Mini, £55.97, Sega A huge spoonful of nostalgia for anyone who grew up with Sega and an education in classic gameplay with Sonic the Hedgehog and Earthworm Jim for the youngsters. With two controllers for competitions, just plug it into your TV via HDMI, turn on and enjoy.
Series X, £449.99, Xbox Microsoft’s latest console, launching 10 November, has a ridiculous 12 teraflops of processing power – twice as much as the Xbox One X – an expandable 1TB memory and it can display 8K resolution at 120 frames per second, so action is brilliantly smooth and scarily realistic.
THE BEST BIT The console comes with 42 classic games preloaded, so there’s no need to connect to the internet.
THE BEST BIT For £7.99 a month you can download hundreds of games.
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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When Maya’s favourite magazine recommended Inspired by what’s featured in your favourite magazines? Browse the Ownable app and buy products from the latest editions as well as back issues. If it’s in a magazine, it’s Ownable
- she used the Ownable app to buy them
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MEASURE UP Essential accessory with artisan style. Bloomingville Kendra stoneware measuring spoons, £19, Nordic Nest
BEAT IT The ultimate piece of baking kit. Artisan 4.8ltr stand mixer in Fog Blue, £499, KitchenAid
GOLDEN CROWN A must have for creating traditional festive cakes. Nordic Ware gold lotus bundt pan, £45, Harrods
GIFTS FOR
home bakers
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT
FEEL-GOOD FACTOR Promoting mindfulness through baking. Bread Therapy by Pauline Beaumont, £12.99, Hodder & Stoughton
FINE IMPRESSION Create pretty pastry patterns with a festive twist. Snowflake Press birch rolling pin, £9.99, Marie Curie
Great ideas for budding star bakers and bread makers
CENTRE STAGE The perfect way to serve baked goods in style all year round. Mince pie cake stand, £40, The White Company
HAND PRINTED Keep loaves and rolls fresher for longer. Linen bread bag, £24, Helen Round Designs at Etsy
WHISK AWAY With beaters, dough hooks, whisk and seven speeds for busy bakers. Breville hand mixer, £49.99, Lakeland
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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EXPLORE MORE ON A LUXURY RIVER CRUISE
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8 days
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8 days
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Reassuringly Riviera: Because you mean the world to us We understand that recent changes to the way we travel mean you need that extra bit of confidence to book a holiday again. That’s why we have introduced a policy to allow you to change your booking for free up to 45 days before you travel when you book a new holiday by 18 December, 2020.
• • • •
Change your booking for free up to 45 days before travel COVID cancellation protection as standard Happy by day two or we’ll bring you home with a refund 24-hour UK-based assistance throughout your holiday
CALL 01283 744319 TO BOOK OR TO ORDER YOUR FREE BROCHURE, VISIT IDERIVIERA.CO.UK TERMS & CONDITIONS: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Ideal Home, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print. Free amend up to 45 days before departure is only valid for entirely new bookings made between 1st September and 18th December 2020 and can only be used once. See our website for full details.
ABTA No. V4744
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BEAN TO CUP A serious bit of kit that means skipping the cafe queue, with steam wand and cleaning tools too. Barista Max, £449, Breville
GRAINS FOR GOOD This ethical coffee roaster employs survivors of modern slavery. Monthly Manumix plan, beans or ground, from £8.10, Manumit
GRAND FINALE Top off the masterpiece with chocolate or cinnamon sprinkles. Cocoa shaker, £14.99, Barista & Co
GIFTS FOR
coffee lovers HOT STUFF Keeps drinks hot for four hours, when on the move or too busy to finish a brew. Blue Granite tumbler with lid, £23, S’well
Give a caffeine addict the tools to be a better barista at home
ON
GLAZE OF GLORY Re create the boutique cafe experience at home with an artisan style mug. Filey Reactive mug, £5, Dunelm
E ALL S T
EP
FEATURE MICHELA COLLING
SM
PERFECT FOR ONE The chic angled shape allows water to flow through the coffee evenly. Studio Grey brew coffee dripper, £30, Denby
ORGANIC DESIGN Hand carved from sustainably sourced wood, this will bring added joy to the daily ritual. Coffee scoop, £22.35, Akojo Market
VELVETY FINISH Heats and whips with varied settings for the perfect cappuccino, latte or flat white. Milk frother, £149.95, Smeg
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Half Price Subscriptions The biggest sale of the year is here and you don’t want to miss it! Enjoy even bigger savings on our best-selling magazines with our amazing half price offer* Take this opportunity to treat yourself or your loved ones to a gift that will keep on giving.
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Lines open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (UK time). Calls will be charged at no more than a national landline call, and may be included in your phone provider’s call bundle. Offer closes 1st February 2021. Offer open to new subscribers only. Direct Debit offer is available to UK subscribers only. *When paying by Direct Debit. This price is guaranteed for the first 12 months and we will notify you in advance of any price changes. Orders purchased as a gift before 1st December 2020 will start with the February 2021 issue published in January. All weekly titles will begin with the first available issue in January. All gift orders purchased after this date will begin with the first available issue. If you would like your gift subscription to start with an earlier issue please contact customer services. Orders purchased for yourself will start with the next available issue - please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery (up to 8 weeks overseas). The full subscription rate is for 12 months and includes postage and packaging. If the magazine ordered changes frequency per annum, we will honour the number of issues paid for, not the term of the subscription. Future Publishing Limited may cancel a subscription and provide a pro rata refund if it ceases to publish the relevant titles for any reason. For full terms and conditions, visit www.magazinesdirect.com/terms. For enquiries please call: +44 (0) 330 333 1113. Lines are open Monday- Friday 9am- 5pm UK Time or e-mail: help@magazinesdirect.com. Calls to 0330 numbers will be charged at no more than a national landline call, and may be included in your phone provider’s call bundle.
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TOOLED UP A muddler, strainer, double jigger and ice tongs all in one handy holder. Barcraft cocktail tool kit and stand, £21.99, Amazon
SHAKER MAKER Upgrade their plain shaker with something worthy of a master mixer. Fiesta glass cocktail shaker, £22.50, Oliver Bonas
WASTE NOT Made from banana peel, with toffee notes a true treat. Discarded Spirits Co Banana Peel rum, £29.99 for 500ml, Selfridges
GIFTS FOR
cocktail queens QUICK MIX Just add water and shake cocktails to get the party started fast. Twistails starter pack, £26.99, Amazon
Give your favourite amateur mixologist a tipple-themed treat
ON
GO SUPERSIZE When a plain highball simply won’t do. Gin goblets with gold stems, £25 a pair, John Lewis & Partners
E
SM EP FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI
ALL S T
STRIKE GOLD Ensure their glasses have something gorgeous to perch on. Sahara metal bar coaster, £10 for four, Sainsbury’s Home
ECO-FRIENDLY Ten per cent of the profits from this açaí berry infused Amazonian gin go to reforestation. Canaïma gin, £38.99 for 700ml, Selfridges
ON A ROLL The curved lines and mesh shelving give this chic trolley a soft, stylish edge. A by Amara brass two tier drinks trolley, £175, Amara
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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TIME TO COOK
Christmas MADE SPECIAL Stick to the classics with this lunch from our Test Kitchen experts that’s designed to impress, but simple to put together
Squash and beetroot en croute See page 159 for recipe
SIMPLE PLEASURES
Orange, sage and thyme-stuffed turkey See page 159 for recipe
Celebration stuffing SERVES 16 (suitable for freezing) READY IN 15 mins INGREDIENTS ● 2tbsp olive oil ● 2 onions, finely chopped ● 4 garlic cloves, crushed ● 150g fresh white breadcrumbs ● 150g pecan nuts, finely chopped ● 150g dried cranberries, finely chopped ● Finely grated zest and juice of 1 orange ● 4tbsp each chopped parsley and chopped sage ● 2tbsp brandy or lemon juice ● 2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 Heat the oil in a pan,
then fry the onion and garlic for 10 mins to soften, but not brown.
2 Tip into a bowl with all
the remaining ingredients. Season and mix thoroughly.
3 Roll into balls or use to
make the wreath, the en croute or to stuff the turkey.
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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IDEAL HOME TIP You can use the Celebration stuffing (recipe on page 153) to stuff the turkey, as a layer in the en croute or to make this impressive wreath
Sausage and stuffing wreath See page 159 for recipe
SIMPLE PLEASURES
Madeira turkey gravy SERVES 8; suitable for freezing READY IN 15 mins INGREDIENTS ● Turkey roasting juices ● 4tbsp fat from the roasting tin ● 2tbsp plain flour ● 100ml Madeira ● 1 Knorr Chicken Stock Pot ● 1tsp Dijon mustard ● 1tbsp redcurrant jelly
1 Pour all the juices from the
turkey roasting tin into a jug. Skim 4tbsp fat from the surface and return it to the roasting tin.
2 Skim off the rest of the fat and
discard. Add water or vegetable cooking water to the turkey juices to make up to half a litre.
3 Heat the fat in the tin on the
hob. Sprinkle over the flour and stir for 1 min until golden.
4 Remove from the heat and stir
in the turkey juices and Madeira. Return to the heat, add the stock pot and stir until thickened. Add the mustard and redcurrant jelly. Season with salt and pepper, simmer for 2 mins more and pour into a warmed sauceboat to serve.
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
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Buck’s fizz carrots See page 159 for recipe
Balsamic cabbage See page 159 for recipe
Brussels sprouts with chestnuts See page 159 for recipe
SIMPLE PLEASURES
Perfect roast potatoes and parsnips SERVES 8 READY IN 1hr 20mins, plus chilling and freezing INGREDIENTS ● 1.5kg even-sized potatoes, peeled and halved ● 500g parsnips, peeled and halved ● 175g goose fat ● 2tsp sea salt ● 1tbsp mustard seeds ● Sprigs of fresh thyme
1 Put the potatoes in one
pan and the parsnips in another. Cover with cold salted water and bring to the boil. Once boiling, cook the potatoes for 8 mins and the parsnips for 6 mins. Drain and toss each in a colander to rough up the edges.
2 Spread out the potatoes
and parsnips on two baking trays. Cool, cover with cling film and freeze.
3 Heat the oven to 200C/
Gas 6. Put the goose fat in a large roasting tin, heat for 4 mins, until sizzling.
Add the potatoes and cook for 30 mins then turn and push them to one end of the tin. Add the parsnips. Sprinkle with salt, mustard seeds and thyme and cook for 30 mins more, until crisp and golden, turning as needed.
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Brandy ginger Christmas pudding MAKES 2 puddings EACH SERVES 8 (suitable for freezing) READY IN 6 hrs, plus cooking on the day for 2 hrs INGREDIENTS 500g mixed dried fruit 250g dates, chopped 60g dried sour cherries Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon 1 eating apple, grated 100g carrots, grated 2tbsp maple syrup 2tbsp black treacle 125ml ginger wine 125ml brandy, plus 2tbsp 125g self-raising flour 2tsp ground ginger 1tsp each ground mixed spice and ground cinnamon 125g ground almonds 200g packet vegetable suet 175g breadcrumbs 125g dark muscovado sugar 4 eggs 10 pieces of stem ginger, drained (reserving the syrup) Edible gold glitter YOU WILL NEED 2 x 1ltr pudding basins, greased and base-lined
1 Put the mixed fruit, dates, 4 Arrange 4 sliced pieces
cherries, lemon zest and juice, apple, carrots, maple syrup and treacle in a large bowl, pour in the ginger wine and 125ml brandy, and stir to combine.
2 Sieve the flour into a
separate bowl with the spices. Add the almonds, suet, breadcrumbs and muscovado sugar.
3 Stir the eggs into the
fruit mixture, then mix in the dry ingredients.
of stem ginger in the base of each basin. Divide the pudding mixture between the 2 basins.
5 Cover the basin with a
double thickness of baking parchment with a pleat in it, then cover with foil and tie string around the rim to secure. Bring water to the boil in the base of a steamer and place the pudding over it. Cover and steam the pudding for 5 hrs, topping up with water, so it doesn't boil
dry. Alternatively, cook on an upturned saucer in a large pan, surrounded by boiling water.
6 Remove the pudding
from the steamer and leave to cool. Overwrap the pudding with fresh foil and store it in the fridge for up to 3 months.
7 On Christmas Day, steam
the pudding for 2 hrs. Upturn and top with more stem ginger. Drizzle with ginger syrup and sprinkle with edible gold glitter.
8 Warm 2tbsp brandy in
a ladle over a gas flame, then pour over the pudding and light with a long taper, to serve flaming.
INGREDIENTS WE’VE USED AND LOVED
Bart Blends chicken seasoning, 38g, £1.85, Waitrose
Merchant Gourmet Chestnuts, 180g, £2.40, Tesco
Stone's Original Ginger Wine, 700ml, £6.50, Sainsbury's
SIMPLE PLEASURES
Squash and beetroot en croute SERVES 8 READY IN 2 hrs 30 mins, plus chilling INGREDIENTS ● 1 squash, peeled and chopped ● 500g beetroot, unpeeled ● 2tbsp olive oil ● 1tbsp chicken seasoning ● 650g puff pastry ● 250g baby spinach ● 400g curd cheese ● ⅓ quantity of Celebration stuffing ● 1 egg, beaten ● Holly leaf cutter
1 Preheat the oven to 180C/
Gas 4. Put the squash in a roasting tin and beetroot in another. Sprinkle over oil and seasoning. Roast for 25 mins.
2 Remove the squash and
cook the beetroot for 35 mins, until tender. When cool, peel and cut into wedges.
Orange, sage and thyme-stuffed turkey SERVES 16 READY IN 4 hrs 15 mins, plus resting INGREDIENTS ● ⅓ quantity of Celebration stuffing ● 6kg turkey ● 2 red onions, cut into wedges ● 1 lemon, cut into wedges ● 1 orange, cut into wedges ● Sprigs of thyme and sage ● 2tbsp chicken seasoning ● 90g butter ● 3 clementines, halved ● Holly leaves, to decorate
1 Spoon the stuffing inside
the turkey neck, using the skin flap to secure in place with a skewer. Tuck the onions, lemon and orange, and some of the herbs into the turkey cavity.
FEATURE SAMUEL GOLDSMITH RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
3 Turn the oven up to 220C/ 2 Line a large roasting tin
Gas 7. Roll out a third of the pastry to 15x25cm. Transfer to a lined baking sheet, prick with a fork, bake for 12-15 mins until golden.
4 Microwave the spinach on
High for 1-2 mins. Squeeze out excess liquid. Arrange half the spinach over the pastry, spoon over the beetroot, then cheese. Place the stuffing along the centre, add a layer of squash, and top with spinach.
5 Roll out the remaining
pastry and use to cover the filling, pressing lightly to seal.
6 Stamp out 22 pastry holly
leaves. Brush the pastry with egg and top with the holly leaves. Chill for 30 mins. Reduce the oven to 200C/Gas 6 and bake for 40-45 mins.
with 2 pieces of foil. Sit the turkey on the foil, sprinkle over the seasoning, then dot with butter. Wrap tightly in foil. (You can leave the turkey in the fridge overnight at this stage.) Weigh the stuffed turkey and roast for 15 mins per 450g, plus 15 mins – this turkey will take 3 hrs 45 mins.
3 Preheat the oven to 200C/
Gas 6. Unwrap the foil for the final 30 mins of cooking time. Sprinkle over the sage and thyme. Remove from the oven and leave the turkey to rest, wrapped in foil for at least 30 mins.
4 Place on a platter and
serve garnished with extra sage, thyme, clementine halves and holly.
Sausage and stuffing wreath SERVES 8 READY IN 50 mins
INGREDIENTS ● ⅔ quantity of Celebration Stuffing ● 2tbsp cranberry sauce ● 2tbsp Worcestershire sauce ● 630g pork and herb chipolata sausages ● 250g rindless streaky bacon ● Bay leaves, to garnish ● Cranberry sauce, to serve YOU WILL NEED ● Empty recycled clean can ● 22cm springform tin, lined with a parchment cake liner
1 Grease the can and wrap
with baking parchment. Place in the centre of the tin and pack the stuffing around it to make a wreath shape.
2 In a small bowl, mix
together the cranberry and Worcestershire sauces.
3 Pinch each chipolata in
the centre, twist and cut to make mini chipolatas.
4 Halve the streaky
bacon rashers. Brush the chipolatas with the cranberry sauce mixture. Wrap the bacon rashers around the chipolatas. Arrange them around the can on top of the stuffing. Cover, then chill or freeze.
5 To serve, defrost overnight
in the fridge (if frozen). Preheat the oven to 200C/ Gas 6. Cook for 30 mins, until the sausages are golden brown. Garnish with some bay leaves. Serve with the cranberry sauce in the tin in the centre of the wreath.
Buck’s fizz carrots SERVES 8 READY IN 20 mins
INGREDIENTS ● 500g carrots, peeled and halved ● 60g butter ● 1 vegetable Stock Pot ● 2tbsp golden caster sugar ● 400ml Buck’s fizz ● 2tbsp chopped parsley Put everything in a pan, cover and boil for 5 mins. Uncover and simmer for 10 mins, until carrots are tender and the liquid is a syrupy glaze. Sprinkle with parsley.
Balsamic cabbage SERVES 8 READY IN 30 mins
INGREDIENTS ● 750g red cabbage, shredded ● 2 apples, chopped ● 300ml vegetable stock ● 2 red onions, chopped ● 2 apples, skin on, sliced ● 2tbsp light muscovado sugar ● 2tsp juniper berries ● 1tsp ground cinnamon ● 4tbsp balsamic vinegar Put all the ingredients in a pan. Season, cover and simmer for 20 mins, until everything is tender.
Brussels sprouts with chestnuts SERVES 8 READY IN 20 mins
INGREDIENTS ● 1kg Brussels sprouts, trimmed ● 200g whole cooked chestnuts, halved ● 30g butter Blanch the sprouts for 3 mins, drain and plunge into cold water. Drain and cover. To serve, fry the chestnuts and sprouts in butter for a few mins, to warm through.
IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
159
IDEAL HOME PARTNERSHIP
‘ART IS ABOUT HOW IT MAKES YOU FEELÕ GG Stokes’ career background in fashion styling, photography and creative direction influences her beautiful oil paintings for Runway Gallery
G
G Stokes grew up in the Cotswolds and moved to London to study fashion styling, photography and creative direction at The London College of Fashion. She pursued a successful career working on fashion shoots for glossy magazines, before becoming an artist. Fashion photography and her connection with it continues to inspire her and currently is the subject of her oil paintings.
Black Magic Harpers Bazaar US 1993, £2,295; BELOW Super Girls The Face 1995, £3,995, both GG Stokes at Runway Gallery
I’M OBSESSED WITH THE PAST AND THE VISUAL DOCUMENTATION OF IT – whether that’s images of David Bowie with Elizabeth Taylor in the 1970s or war photography by Lee Miller. THE IMAGES I PAINT ARE ABOUT A FEELING I NEED TO ASSIMILATE. I spend a day shooting options and
lighting them, before I edit and manipulate the image. I cover the canvas with gesso, it’s a slightly rougher finish than others would choose. I spent many wonderful years as a signwriter on the side, often in St Ives, Cornwall, painting onto rough walls and pieces of wood, so I like texture and prefer it to a smooth canvas.
“
If you’re buying art you’re investing in an artist and their work. The work itself is a living, breathing thing that has a history of its own. Buy it because you’ll love it
”
I DO THE UNDERPAINTING, usually in black, then start on the figurative work. There are layers and levels to the paintings as there is typography that I’ll hand paint on top and then wash over to give it a feel of fitting in. There may even be another level over that, where I put plastic in the image or add a light shine. I’M SO HAPPY TO BE BACK TO PAINTING AGAIN, it feels like such a ‘hands on’ medium.
BECOME A COLLECTOR Buy art online at Runway Gallery. Showcasing contemporary, fashionfocused works from celebrated artists, runway-gallery.com enables you to invest in original art for your home.
WORDS JACKY PARKER PHOTOGRAPH TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
I’VE BEEN CREATIVE FOR AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER. I did fine art at school and was taught how to paint, but I’ve always been obsessed with images of all kinds, particularly photography. When I found fashion and how special it was to create fashion images, it was the perfect vehicle for me at the time, so I stepped away from painting and into photography. My love of fashion photography was always with the concept and creation.
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Marketplace o g y som g r your home? You’ll find it in our easy-to-follow guide
MARKETPLACE CATEGORIES 164 Art
163 Gardens
163 Beds & Bedding
164 Home Imp’ments
166 Charities
163 Home Interiors
167 Floor Coverings
167 Wallpaper
164 Furniture
Why not visit our online interiors directory at idealhome. co.uk
To advertise here or on our online directory, please call Charlotte Beckett on 07813 031 023, or email charlotte.beckett@futurenet.com
Market BEDS & BEDDING
Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co. Hand made in Norfolk. Guaranteed to last a lifetime.
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163
Market ART
GARDENS
Ironwork Door Canopies
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164
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To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 07813 031 023, or email charlotte.beckett@futurenet.com
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166
To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 07813 031 023, or email charlotte.beckett@futurenet.com
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167
Shopping directory A
Abigail Ahern 020 7354 8181 abigailahern.com Advent of Change adventofchange.com Akojo Market akojomarket.com Amara 0800 587 7645 amara.com Amazon.co.uk Amazon Handmade amazon.co.uk Amtico 01217 450800 amtico.com Annie Sloan 01865 803168 anniesloan.com AO.com 0344 324 9222 Argos 0345 640 2020 argos.co.uk Armorel armorel.co.uk Art Fund 020 3757 9772 artfund.org Arthouse Unlimited 01483 425273 arthouseunlimited.org Artisanti 0345 259 1410 artisanti.com Atlantic Shopping 01212 301644 atlanticshopping.co.uk Att Pynta attpynta.com
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B&Q 0333 014 3098 diy.com Balsam Hill 01234 227155 balsamhill.co.uk Barista & Co 01202 619500 baristaandco.com Bathstore 0800 023 2323 bathstore.com Beliani 0870 495 2749 beliani.co.uk Benjamin Moore 01753 575756 benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk Best Tile 003 535 135 4905 best-tile.co.uk Bisley 03333 583856 bisley.com Blanco 0844 912 0100 blanco.co.uk Breville 0800 028 7154 breville.co.uk Brewers 01323 411080 brewers.co.uk Bungalow bungalow.dk Burlington Bathrooms 0845 539 0055 burlingtonbathrooms.com
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SUBSCRIPTIONS All prices are for 12 issues and include p&p. Delivery times for overseas services are shown in brackets. UK: £54. USA (direct entry, five to 12 days): $155.45. Europe (priority; three to five days): €170.80. Rest of the world (priority, five to seven days): £124.77. Order online at magazinesdirect.com. For enquiries please email help@magazinesdirect.com. Airfreight and mailing in the USA by Air Business Ltd; c/o Worldnet Shipping Inc; 156-15 146th Avenue, 2nd floor, Jamaica NY 11434, USA. Periodicals postage paid at Jamaica NY 11431.US Postmaster: send address changes to Ideal Home, Air Business Ltd; c/o Worldnet Shipping Inc; 156-15 146th Avenue, 2nd floor, Jamaica NY 11434, USA. Subscriptions records are maintained at Future Publishing Limited, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP, England. Air Business Ltd is acting as our mailing agent. We are committed to only using magazine paper which is derived from responsibly managed, certified forestry and chlorine-free manufacture. The paper in this magazine was sourced and produced from sustainable managed forests, conforming to strict environmental and socioeconomic standards. The manufacturing paper mill holds full FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification and accreditation. All contents © 2020 Future Publishing Limited or published under licence. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any way without the prior written permission of the publisher. Future Publishing Limited (company number 2008885) is registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All information contained in this publication is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Future cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. You are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this publication. Apps and websites mentioned in this publication are not under our control. We are not responsible for their contents or any other changes or updates to them. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with the companies mentioned herein. If you submit material to us, you warrant that you own the material and/or have the necessary rights/permissions to supply the material and you automatically grant Future and its licensees a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in any/all issues and/or editions of publications, in any format published worldwide and on associated websites, social media channels and associated products. Any material you submit is sent at your own risk and, although every care is taken, neither Future nor its employees, agents, subcontractors or licensees shall be liable for loss or damage. We assume all unsolicited material is for publication unless otherwise stated, and reserve the right to edit, amend, adapt all submissions.
168
DECEMBER 2020 | IDEALHOME.CO.UK
STOCKISTS
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Titania’s Garden titaniasgarden.co.uk Tom Dixon tomdixon.net Tom Raffield 01326 722725 tomraffield.com Trainspotters 01453 756677 trainspotters.co.uk Trouva 020 7193 6444 trouva.com
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BE CANDLE SAFE Enjoy the special touch that candles add to your home; but take care to use them safely: Always place lit candles well away from foliage, furniture, curtains and soft furnishings, and always out of draughts ● Keep candles out of reach of children and pets ● Never leave a burning candle unattended ● Keep candles away from hair and clothing ● Always place candles upright in suitable holders that can’t easily fall over ● Always be sure that candles are properly extinguished
EDITORIAL COMPLAINTS We work very hard to achieve the highest standards of editorial content, and we are committed to complying with the Editors’ Code of Practice (ipso.co.uk/IPSO/ cop.html) as enforced by IPSO. If you have a complaint about our editorial content, you can email the Editor at ideal.home@futurenet.com or write to The Editor, Ideal Home, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP. Please provide details of the material you are complaining about and explain your complaint by reference to the Editors’ Code. We will endeavour to acknowledge your complaint within five working days and we aim to correct substantial errors as soon as possible.
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Vanessa Richmond GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR Georgia Hibberdine EXECUTIVE EDITOR Heather Young HOMES CONTENT TEAM EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Rhoda Parry COMMERCIAL EDITORIAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Jane Akers ACTING COMMERCIAL EDITORIAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Lizzie Hudson ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ginevra Benedetti GROUP CHIEF SUB-EDITOR/PRODUCTION EDITOR Sarah Farley DECORATING EDITOR Nicky Phillips STYLE EDITOR Michela Colling HOUSES EDITOR Ruth Corbett SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR Stephanie Durrant FEATURES EDITOR Holly Walsh ACTING FEATURES EDITOR Lisa Fazzani FOOD EDITOR Samuel Goldsmith HEAD OF SUBS OPERATIONS Maxine Clarke HUB CHIEF SUB-EDITOR Amy Hodge SENIOR SUB-EDITOR Chloe Hay SENIOR SUB-EDITOR Linda Blakemore ASSOCIATE ART HUB DIRECTOR Alison Walter DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR Emma Jackson DESIGNER Charlotte Holland GROUP DIGITAL DIRECTOR Sarah Rafati DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Holly Boultwood ACTING DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Stephanie Wood DIGITAL EDITOR – HOMES GROUP Amy Cutmore DIGITAL SHOPPING EDITOR Tamara Kelly
ADVERTISING
PUBLISHER AND HEAD OF HOMES NETWORK Joanne O’Hara 020 3148 7642 ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER Sharon Goode 020 3148 7631 INTERNATIONAL/LUXURY ACCOUNT MANAGER Carol Bunce 020 3148 7620 LONDON SALES MANAGER Ruth Roscorla 020 3148 7639 CLASSIFIED SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE Charlotte Beckett 020 3148 2511 INSERTS Canopy Media Sales and Management 0845 544 1857 REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Katrina Hutchison 0161 601 3720 REGIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Kim Milroy 0161 601 3737 HOMES DIGITAL DIRECTOR Ellie Naber 020 3148 4253
MARKETING
HEAD OF MARKETING Sian Cupid 020 3148 6487 DEPUTY HEAD OF MARKETING Laura Timms 020 3148 6239
OFFERS
ENQUIRIES 020 3148 6340
CIRCULATION
CIRCULATION MANAGER Alan Edwards 020 3787 9161
SUBSCRIPTIONS AND BACK ISSUES
SENIOR SUBSCRIPTIONS MARKETING MANAGER Anita Baghapour 020 3047 1985 CREDIT-CARD HOTLINE 0330 333 1113 For full details turn to page 22. For back issues visit mags-uk.com. You can order issues from as far back as 2003, subject to availability.
PRODUCTION
EDITORIAL PRODUCTION MANAGER Nicola Tillman DEPUTY EDITORIAL PRODUCTION MANAGER Clare Willetts ART PRODUCTION DESIGNER Phil Dunk ADVERTISEMENT PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR Nick Williams 020 3148 2676 PRODUCTION MANAGER John Botten 020 3148 5431 PRODUCTION OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Richard Hill 020 3148 5424 SYNDICATION Efi Mandrides 020 3148 5485 HEAD OF BRAND PARTNERSHIPS David Abbott 020 3148 5474 PRESS OFFICE 020 3148 7682
PUBLISHING
GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR, LIFESTYLE Andrea Davies MANAGING DIRECTOR, HOME INTEREST Jason Orme GROUP CLIENT INVESTMENT DIRECTOR Rob Biagioni 01252 555371
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IDEALHOME.CO.UK | DECEMBER 2020
169
STYLE THROWBACK
THEN… AND NOW
1960
Every issue in our centenary year, we’re dipping into our archive to find an inspiring image and put a modern spin on the look
FEATURE MICHELA COLLING
THE ORIGINAL If it wasn’t for the illustrated image and the dodgy ceramic grapes in the background, you’d be forgiven for thinking this was a current Christmas tablescape. Handmade centrepieces and boughs are everywhere this year, along with star-shaped decorations. And while gold never goes out of style, it’s the polished brass highlights that make it feel ahead of its time. THE UPDATE The surprisingly fresh palette of pink, white and gold, rather than traditional red and green, felt like a modern spin we’ve been used to seeing in recent years. We’ve taken the tableware one step further with more blush accents and an abstract, foil finish that will glam up the table for Christmas, New Year’s Eve and beyond into 2021.
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WHERE TO BUY 1 Hand forged candleholder trio, £37.50, Curious Egg 2 Southwark drawers, £279, Swoon 3 Scandi Living Dusky Rose table cloth, £69, Nordic Nest 4 Rhapsody gold stars, £4 for three, Sainsbury’s Home 5 Averie wine glass, £14 for two, Next Home 6 Abstract bowl, £3, Matalan 7 Paper stars Christmas tree decoration, £18, Rockett St George
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DECEMBER 2020 | IDEALHOME.CO.UK
Calendar 2021
January
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
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NEW YEAR’S DAY
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IDEAL HOME MARCH 2021 ON SALE
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CHINESE NEW YEAR
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VALENTINE’S DAY
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SHROVE TUESDAY
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March
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MOTHERING SUNDAY
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ST PATRICK’S DAY BANK HOLIDAY NORTHERN IRELAND
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BRITISH SUMMER TIME BEGINS
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April
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IDEAL HOME MAY 2021 ON SALE APRIL FOOL’S DAY
GOOD FRIDAY
EASTER SUNDAY
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EASTER MONDAY BANK HOLIDAY ENGLAND, WALES AND NORTHERN IRELAND
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May
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FATHER’S DAY
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SUMMER SOLSTICE
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BANK HOLIDAY ENGLAND, WALES AND NORTHERN IRELAND
September
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HALLOWEEN BRITISH SUMMER TIME ENDS
November
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BONFIRE NIGHT
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REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY
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December
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CHRISTMAS DAY
BOXING DAY
WINTER SOLSTICE
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BANK HOLIDAY
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NEW YEAR’S EVE
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Calendar 2021
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