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3 KEYWORKERS, 3 TREES + GLITTER GALORE... See the results inside
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The Style Book
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Celebrate Christmas in style with contemporary decorating ideas that will add wow through December and beyond. From opulent looks to laid-back bohemian styles, there’s a seasonal look you’ll love
DISPLAY UNTIL 02/12/2020 PRINTED IN THE UK
MODERN CHRISTMAS
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DECEMBER 2020
THE STYLE BOOK
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SIMPLE RECIPES
MOUTH-WATERING CHRISTMAS FEAST
SUPERMARKET TREATS
EDITOR’S LETTER
Love it
Hi there!
ABOVE: Get your home ready for the festive season, p84 LEFT: See stars all year round with this trend, p12 BELOW: Try a cute and clever homemade gift idea, p108
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Welcome to the last issue of 2020! Let’s face it, 2021 can only be better, and, in the meanwhile, we can all fall into the arms of the Christmas holidays and enjoy some time out. We might not be able to do things in exactly the same way we’re used to (Ma Richmond and I are emotionally preparing ourselves to see the littlest Richmonds open their pressies via Facetime rather than face-to-face), but there’ll still be gin and The Muppets Christmas Carol, and board-game binges – even if the other players are online. This isn’t only the last issue of the year, it’s also my last as Editor. This magazine is so full of the joy of home, it has been a wonderfully happy part of my life and I hope it will continue to be a highlight in yours. The new Ed will be starting the New Year in style…
Vanessa Richmond, Editor
SEND US YOUR STYLING SNAPS ON INSTAGRAM #SAHSTYLISTS WE LOVE TO SEE YOUR FAB IDEAS!
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DECEMBER 2020 | 3
Inside…
HO-HOHOME IDEAS Page 84
Love it
Buy it
Do it
Make it
Cook it
Inspiring homes & room makeovers
Stylish musthave finds at high-street prices
Weekend projects, DIY advice & styling tips
Step-by-step craft ideas & upcycling how-tos
Our fave recipes and top foodie buys
Regulars
26 SUBSCRIBE and never miss an issue! 130 LOOK WHAT YOU STYLED We’re loving all your #SAHStylists efforts!
Love it 17
2020’S BEST TREE TRENDS Three key workers get creative in our Christmas tree challenge
28
‘WE HAVE LOTS OF VINTAGE GEMS’ By restoring a traditional look, Fransisca’s home has reached its full potential, and then some
42
‘THIS HOUSE WAS A BIG PROJECT’ Teacher and first-time buyer Clara was prepared to do her homework; now her home is top of the class
54
‘WE LOVE OUR SCANDI HOME’ Meg and Phil kept their cool and transformed a dated 1990s house into a light-filled space
84
TRY A SPEEDY STYLE UPDATE Fun and simple ideas to give your home a refresh
90
‘WE USED EVERY INCH OF SPACE’ A clever reworking of Athina’s basement flat kitchen means it now ticks all her must-have boxes
96
‘WE MADE SOME BRAVE CHOICES’ Swapping a bedroom into a bathroom has given Holly the designer-chic space she yearned for
Buy it 7
WINTER WARMTH Pop Art-bright decorations
8
GIFT LIST, SORTED! Affordable ideas for your loved ones
12
MOONS & STARS Bring the night sky indoors
15
10 UNDER £10 Cheery stocking fillers
24
BONKERS BAUBLES Tree-mendous fun decorations
38
EARTHY RUSTIC A perfect blend of natural materials and muted colours
4 | DECEMBER 2020
28
Fransisca’s Finnish home is a retro treasure trove
65 Have a traditional folk-style Christmas
GIFT INSPIRATION Page 8
CONTENTS
Love it
42
Clara’s 1930s semi has been given a new breath of life
BONKERS BAUBLES Page 24
50 62 95 101
BOUTIQUE CHIC Luxe fabrics and contrasting colours make an impact SERENE SCANDI Tranquil shades teamed with white keep it cool MODERN MONO Classic black and white pieces have a timeless appeal BRIGHT & FRESH Pops of colour contrast against a mono scheme
128 WHERE TO BUY This issue’s stockists
Do it 65 76 83 94
THE STYLE BOOK Decorating ideas for December and beyond MAKE EVERY SPACE WORK HARDER Display, upcycling and storage ideas to make life easier PET TREAT GIFT An edible present your furry friends will love to receive A QUARTZ WORKTOP Give your kitchen a high-end update
100 A WALK-IN SHOWER The smart showering solution
116 Food to wow your guests
76
Make it 64
SEASONAL PLACE SETTINGS Add a personal touch to your seating plan
102 GINGERBREAD HOUSE ADVENT A
cute way to count down to Christmas
104 QUICK GIFTS Impressive ideas for thoughtful presents
108 GREETINGS CARDS & GIFT WRAP
Stylish home updates
112
Techniques to try for a personal touch DECK THE HALLS Festive suggestions to prettify your home
Cook it
103 CHOCOLATE ORANGE TRIFLE 116 NATURAL TOUCHES
Fruity trifle flavoured with liqueur SERVE UP A FESTIVE FEAST Spectacular Christmas spread
123 FESTIVE FOOD NEWS What’s hot on the shelves this month
Page 38
Tweet us your comments at @styleathomemag – we’d love to hear what you think of your fave mag!
DECEMBER 2020 | 5
WINTER WARMTH
Buy it
Arrange baubles in colour groups for a striking effect
THIS MONTH’S
Loveit!
Rainbows have been a symbol of hope and gratitude this year, and the Pop Art collection at John Lewis & Partners is bringing us good vibes for Christmas too. Modern, kitsch and cool, the range features fun baubles and neon lights.
Create an Instaworthy tree with oversized decs. Pop among plain baubles so they stand out
3 of the best…
RAINBOW DECORATIONS
FEATURE MICHELA COLLING
Pom-pom garland, £6.99, Homesense
Multicoloured mini glass baubles, £9.99 for 25, The Contemporary Home
Rainbow glass tree decoration £6.99, Marie Curie
DECEMBER 2020 | 7
Gift list, SORTED!
Pressies for home lovers, kids, pets and foodies – all less than £50
3
1
4 2
5
6
7
9
8
...For the true homebodies
10
1 Small hanging clay planter in Light Grey, £24 (plant not included), Leaf Envy 2 Monogram pocket notebooks, £10 each, ReStationery at Etsy 3 Ferm Living brass candle snuffer, £20, Rose & Grey 4 Bloomingville glass jewellery box set, £37, Cuckooland 5 Fox & Ivy Tribal round Amber glass vase, £8, Tesco 6 Bloomingville North shelf in Black, £34.95, Beaumonde 7 Nest Mini 2nd Gen hands-free smart speaker in Sky, £49, Google 8 Rico Design punch needle cushion kit, £46, John Lewis & Partners 9 Christmas ornament, £24, Jo Malone London 10 Skandinavisk Fjord scented candle, £35, Nest
8 | DECEMBER 2020
CHRISTMAS GIFTS
1
Buy it
3 2
5
4
6
9 7 10
8
...For the coolest kids
1 Kids Concept wooden toy guitar in Red, £24.95, Cuckooland 2 Positive Vibration 2 wireless headphones in Denim Blue, £49.99, The House of Marley 3 Rainbow star cushion, £35, Sweetpea & Willow 4 Rocket backpack, £18, John Lewis & Partners 5 Diplodocus egg cup, £10, Natural History Museum 6 Cycling helmet in Sea Glass, £49.99, Electra Bikes 7 Kids 340ml classic sport bottle in Dragon Snack, £16.95, Klean Kanteen 8 Hedgehog book cart, £45, Great Little Trading Company 9 Peacock slippers, £8, Flying Tiger 10 Rainbow bamboo lunchbox, £9.99, Oxfam
DECEMBER 2020 | 9
2
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9 10
8
...For the pampered pets 1 Norfolk Natural Living dog pamper kit, £45, Liberty 2 Kinloch small pet food bin in Thistle Green, £25, Garden Trading 3 Festive Tree small animal gnaw chew, £3 for three, Pets at Home 4 Marina 360° 10ltr aquarium with remote control LED lighting, £35.99, Amazon 5 Duck dog toy, £12, Sophie Allport 6 Boredom Breaker forest cabin for hamsters and gerbils, £5.99, Omlet 7 Coopers Italian leather dog collar in Avocado Green, £39, Lish London 8 Love Cat Caves cat bed, £43, Etsy 9 Joules dog raincoat in Mustard, £14, John Lewis & Partners 10 Train small animal gnaw chew and hideaway, £5, Pets at Home
10 | DECEMBER 2020
S
2
Buy it
3
1
4 5
6
7 8
9 FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI
10
...For foodie fans
1 Port of Leith Distillery Lind & Lime gin, £34.95 for 70cl, The Whisky Exchange 2 Bamboo portable serving bowl, £49, Cielshop 3 Mason Cash In The Forest measuring spoons, £15, Viners 4 Fetch bottle opener, £15, Trouva 5 Cast-iron casserole dish in Cream, £35, Argos Home 6 Two-tone chopping board, £9.99, Homesense 7 Bare Bones Honduras 60% ethical milk chocolate bar, £8.50 for 70g, Selfridges 8 BonVivo Intenca induction hob-friendly stovetop espresso maker, £44.90, Amazon 9 Pasta making machine, £29.99, Lakeland 10 No.8 limited-edition Amour by Kruella d’Enfer folding knife, £34.95, Whitby & Co
DECEMBER 2020 | 11
AND STARS STARGAZING GLAMOUR
TWINKLE, TWINKLE
Farringdon stars, from £18 each, Garden Trading
Black and Gold star luxury Christmas crackers, £38 for six, Rockett St George
Bloomsbury metal hanging stars, £20, John Lewis & Partners
MOON SHINE COSMIC CHIC
GOLD GLIMMER Celestial moon hanging planter, £12, Red Candy
Moon Phase ceramic trays, £16.50 for two, Oliver Bonas
Trend spotting
MOONS & STARS Conjure an enchanted feel with celestial style
G
aze towards the heavens on a crisp and clear winter’s evening and you’ll be greeted by twinkling stars and the moon in one of its many majestic guises. Bring home some of that celestial beauty with homeware featuring cosmic motifs and astronomy-inspired shapes…
WARM WOOL
Southwold stocking in Ink, £15, Garden Trading
LUNA ILLUSTRATION
Hand-painted bauble, £10, Laura Nevill
Bossa Nova hanging stars, £7.50 each, Rose & Grey
BEADED BAUBLE
Painted glass glitter moon face decoration, £9.99, The Contemporary Home
12 | DECEMBER 2020
PLANET FRIENDLY
Reusable cotton gift wrap, £16, Folds Wrap at Etsy
SHINING LIGHTS
Mercury stars, £14, Next Home
BLUE MOON
It’s Just A Phase cushion, £10, Matalan
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT
PASTEL PICK
This Christmas spoil everyone with beautiful gifts at beautiful prices
Wild Wonders Melamine Tray, ÂŁ8.95
it ROLL OUT
Natural wood snowflake rolling pin, £9.99, Gisela Graham
COOL WALL DECO CLOUD PLEASER
Woven rainbow, £6, George Home
FACE VALUE
Abstract Face mug, £9.99, Very
CHILD’S PLAY
Lion yo-yo, £5.50, The National Gallery
TOO CUTE TO EAT!
10
UNDER £10 There’s something for everyone with these cheery stocking fillers
FUN GUY
Mini Ross planter, £6.50, Sass & Belle
TWEET DREAMS
FEATURE LISA FAZZANI
FESTIVE KNIT Christmas jumper jolly gingerbread man, £7.95, Biscuiteers
Love Birds eye mask with pouch, £10, Daisy Park
ART BUFF
Matisse-inspired flowers poster, £8.95, Desenio
PUZZLE IT OUT New York doublesided jigsaw, £10, Wild & Wolf
BEE HAPPY
Seedball (wildflowers for bees) tin, £5.95, Annabel James
DECEMBER 2020 | 15
FROM THE MAKERS OF BRITAIN’S BESTSELLING HOMES MAGAZINE
VISIT US TODAY!
STYLE
IDEAS & DECORATING TIPS GORGEOUS REAL HOMES PRACTICAL PROJECT ADVICE
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Love it
THANK YOU KEY WORKERS!
TREE TRENDS
We invited three key workers, who have carried on throughout the pandemic, to style trees with the latest decs from some of our most-loved retailers
B
ack in the summer, the SAH team decided to celebrate some of our country’s fantastic key workers, who have given so much this year, working throughout lockdown to help others. We invited three amazing women to join us on two of the hottest days of August for some Christmas escapism to accept our annual Christmas Tree Challenge.
These superstars helped our team style up trees for some of our favourite retailers – Dunelm, John Lewis & Partners and Matalan – then got glammed up for a festive photoshoot with their beautifully decorated trees. Check out their looks, let us know your favourite, and join us in saying a huge thank you to all our fantastic key workers across the country using #SAHXmastreechallenge
‘JOIN OUR INSTA COMMUNITY BY TAGGING YOUR HOME PICS WITH #SAHSTYLISTS, AND IT COULD BE YOU TAKING PART IN THE CHALLENGE NEXT YEAR!’
Let us know your favourite by using the hashtag #SAHxmastreechallenge on Instagram.
DECEMBER 2020 | 17
Stylish SPARKLE Dress your tree with on-trend blush pink and glittering silver for an elegant winter wonderland LOUISE SAYS
TREE NORWAY SPRUCE PRE-LIT 7FT TREE, £719, BALSAM HILL
Styled for MATALAN by Louise
‘ This look is very close to how I like to decorate at home – lots of pastels, soft furnishings and sparkly decorations!’
Christmas decoration starter pack (includes tree topper), 50 pieces, £10; metallic pleated baubles, pack of three, £6; mini baubles, 49-pack, £6; shatterproof baubles, 40-pack, £12; luxury Christmas baubles, 20-pack, £15; polar bear tree decoration, £3; frosted glass tree decoration, £3; wooden house tree decoration, £1.50; resin stag ornaments, small, £6 and large, £8; LED glitter foliage Christmas garland, £18; LED glitter half Christmas wreath, £12.50; Emily side table, £40; stacked star Christmas tree decoration, £7; stag mug and side plate, £3 each; foiled cushion, £8; Venice wool rug, £100-£150; faux fur rugs, from £25; Christmas wrapping sets, £3; mini LED domes, £3; geo polar bear, £8; silver lantern, £10; wooden Nutcracker, £16, all Matalan
18 | DECEMBER 2020
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Love it
Polar bear tree dec, £3, Matalan
Thank you Louise! Louise D’Costa, 33, superintendent radiographer Louise and her team worked hard to keep their breast and busy X-ray services running during the peak of the crisis
What do you love most about Christmas? I love getting together as a family and spending some quality time with everyone, plus the games and food!
What’s your usual Christmas decorating look at home? I love decorating my tree, which is the main feature, with metallic and sparkly baubles (plus some gifted ones from family), and lots of warm lights. And for the finishing flourish I have a sparkly gold love heart tree topper, just to be different!
What styling tricks did you pick up on our photoshoot?
I learned that adding extra accessories and ornaments, such as the wooden soldier and silver lanterns, can really give the room an extra Christmassy feeling.
What are you looking forward to for Christmas 2020? Being at home with my family and spending time with them all. I also love helping my mum prepare the Christmas feast!
‘SMART, CONTEMPORARY CHARCOAL-PAINTED WALLS CONTRAST WITH MATALAN’S CRISP AND SPARKLY DECORATIONS TO MAKE THEM POP’ Resin stag, from £6, Matalan
SAH loves
Cross-stitch stag mug, £3, Matalan
LED glitter half Christmas wreath, £12.50, Matalan
Wooden Nutcracker, £16, Matalan
DECEMBER 2020 | 19
Festive FOLK
Make it joyful with an upbeat mix of fun Scandistyle decs and cheerful, bright candy colours
CHLOE SAYS ‘Dunelm’s festive folk look opened my eyes to a contemporary style. I loved the playful and colourful decorations! ’
Styled for DUNELM by Chloe
7ft deluxe Western pine tree, £69; tree decorations: red star tree topper, £3; Santa; polka dot tin tree; reindeer Christmas jumper; pink Nutcracker; Christmas jumper; terrier dog; Dalmatian dog; cat; sausage dog, all £3.50 each; red and white Merry Christmas bauble, £2; polar bear tree decorations, pack of six, £6; pom-pom baubles, pack of six, £6; white fur bauble, £2; wicker tree skirt, £15; velvet wingback cocktail chair, £139; Tundra throw, 130x180cm, £40; melamine tray, £2; recyclable family crackers, pack of 12, £3.50; Compendium recyclable wrapping bundle, £5; large recyclable gift box, £4; Sparkle and Shine star garland, £15, all Dunelm
20 | DECEMBER 2020
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Love it
Tin polka dot tree dec, £3.50, Dunelm
Thank you Chloe! Chloe Pittaway, 27, teacher Primary school teacher Chloe taught her class remotely, as well as looking after key workers’ children at school
What do you love most about Christmas? Spending time with my friends and family, and indulging massively!
Did you learn any styling tricks on the day? My mum’s style is very traditional, which I love, but I learned how to put a contemporary twist on the traditional festive decorations.
What’s your usual Christmas look at home? What are you looking I bought my flat earlier this year, but forward to for didn’t move in until August due to lockdown delaying my renovation Christmas 2020? plans. I’m so happy to be in now and have gone for a cosy style with pops of colour. In fact, the rug I am standing on in the shoot inspired me and is a centrepiece in my living room.
I am really looking forward to winding down and enjoying time with my family and friends over the festive period. I am also excited to start decorating my new home with festive fun!
‘USE DUNELM’S COLOUR-POP SHADES TO PAINT DECORATIVE EXTRAS SUCH AS SNOWFLAKES AND PINE CONES’
SAH loves
Family crackers, £3.50, Dunelm
Naughty and nice pom-pom cushion, £14, Dunelm
White bauble with red stars, £2.50, Dunelm
Character candle, £5, Dunelm
Modern CLASSIC Combine warm, rich colours with vintage-inspired decs for festive fabulousness with an eclectic twist VINDRA SAYS ‘ I absolutely love John Lewis’ Bloomsbury look and decorations, especially the acorns and the gramophone’ Styled for JOHNLEWIS &PARTNERS by Vindra
Cotswold Snowy potted pre-lit 7ft tree, £499; baubles: burnt orange with branches, £5; copper glitter swirl, £5; clear glitter orange swirl, £5; table lamp, £5; stag’s head, £7; stack of books, £6; acorn and leaf, £6; champagne bottle, £8; gramophone, £10; grandfather clock, £6; hot air balloon, £8; foil filled, in antique gold and copper, both £8; ombre leaf, £5; copper mercurised finial, £6; 200 LED 3D star lights, copper, £50; fox crackers, pack of 12, £20, all Bloomsbury range; Hendricks accent chair in Rise Linear, £499; velvet cushion in Auburn, £20; Renaissance willow tree topper, gold, £10; gold tray, £30; Lucca cut crystal glass tumblers, set of two, £40; sheepskin rug, Mocha, £35; Louis De Poortere Heriz Gold Dust rug, £300; gift wrapping sets, £10 each; Design Project No.318 marble side table, £199, all John Lewis & Partners
22 | DECEMBER 2020
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Love it
Multi bauble tree, £25, John Lewis & Partners
Thank you Vindra! Vindra Swanscott, 61, nurse educator Vindra came out of retirement to help train new nurses throughout this year’s Covid-19 crisis
What do you love most about Christmas?
I absolutely love Christmas because we always have a family gathering and have the same routine every year.
What’s your usual Christmas decorating look at home?
My house is fully decorated, even the garden! I take my pictures down to make space to put up wreaths and fresh holly garlands. I have a freshly-cut tree and my theme of decorations is red and gold with soft yellow lights.
Did you learn any stylingtricksontheday? It was quite helpful having the stylist guiding me as to where to place the decorations, especially to add the large ones before the small ones.
What are you looking forward to for Christmas 2020?
Having my family over for Christmas lunch and being able to see my grandson, as it’s been a year which has been really hard.
‘TEAM THE BRIGHT ORANGES AND REDS OF THE BLOOMSBURY COLLECTION WITH SOFT EUCALYPTUS GREENS’ Bronte By Moon Herringbone throw, £95, John Lewis & Partners
Snow globe, £15, John Lewis & Partners
SAH loves Bloomsbury red bauble wreath, £35, John Lewis & Partners
Red velvet stocking, £18, John Lewis & Partners
DECEMBER 2020 | 23
SHOW STOPPER
NEW NOSTALGIA
Christmas drag queen decoration, £18, Rockett St George
Rainbow roller skate tree decoration, £12, Rockett St George
GLITTER BUG
Beetle decoration, £14, Anthropologie
Go crazy with
BONKERS BAUBLES
Gift or decorate with this year’s alternative decorations. There’s something for everyone!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Santa with a surfboard Christmas decoration, £8.75, Cream Cornwall
SOUR SIDE BOTTOMS UP
Pickle bauble, £1.50, George Home
DIY FANATIC
Beer bottle decoration, £7.50, The National Gallery
Electric drill bauble, £2, George Home
SNACK TIME
Pretzel decoration, £8, Urban Outfitters
IN A PICKLE
24 | DECEMBER 2020
NEW RESOLUTION I’m vegan tag, £6, Paperchase
BONKERS BAUBLES
Buy it
GLAM ROCKS Beaded skull, £11.95, Graham and Green
UP, UP AND AWAY
PARTY TIME Balloon pooch hanging decoration, £3.49, Dobbies
CANDY CRUSH Rainbow unicorn decoration, £15, Sass & Belle
LITTLE TIPPLE Pink gin bauble, £3, Matalan
3 of the best
TIGER DECS PAWSOME PRINTS Leopard and tiger print bauble, £18.50 for 6, Cox & Cox
PLANT LADY Cactus bauble, £2.99, Homesense
TIGER KING Tiger bauble, £4.50, Sainsbury’s Home
FOODIE FUN
EGGPLANT EMOJI
RETRO DISH Macaroni and cheese, £27, Choosing Keeping
MAGICAL CREATURE Fretwork wood tiger decoration, £3.99, Gisela Graham
FEATURE MICHELA COLLING
Aubergine decoration, £4, Paperchase
DECEMBER 2020 | 25
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WELCOME HOME
‘A wreath on the door makes the house feel extra cosy’
‘We have lots of MAKING IT OUR OWN
‘The previous owners put up the lovely wood panelling. I’ve made it cosy with cushions, sheepskins and a rug’
COME ON IN!
ABOUT ME I’m Fransisca Lindholm, 35, an interior designer (franco.fi). I live here with my partner Björn Englund, 41, a salesman and truck driver. OUR HOME A four-bedroom 1890s wooden house in Raasepori, southern Finland. We moved here in May 2015. WHEN I MOVED IN It was structurally sound and had been fully renovated by the previous owners, but the interior felt a little too modern for our taste. AND NOW We’ve given it a muted earthy colour palette and added rustic vintage furniture to honour the age of the house. STYLE TIP I really believe that less is more and choosing good quality materials will go a long way.
28 | DECEMBER 2020
IDEA TO STEAL
‘Two side tables can often be cheaper than a larger coffee tableÕ
FINNISH HOUSE
Love it
VINTAGE GEMS’ Buy it
Shop Fransisca’s rustic style PAGE 38
With an eye for a flea market bargain, Fransisca has filled her traditional wooden house with rustic-industrial style
A
fter living in a tiny apartment, having the space to decorate our home for Christmas has been wonderful,’ says Fransisca. ‘Our previous home in nearby Tammisaari was lovely, but tiny at just 42sq m, so we were desperate for more space. Initially we thought about a self-build and I’d already got excited sketching out ideas for our dream house. Then by chance, I came across our new home online, took a drive and fell in love with the garden, the spirit of the place and all the potential we saw. It was five times bigger than our previous place and also had a big industrial barn that would be perfect for parties. The house was built in 1893 and the former owner had done some major renovations to it, including replacing the roof and redoing the plumbing and electrics. All the big, costly things had already been done, which made things much easier for us.
Enhancing its charm
Although it was in good condition, the style was too modern for us. We wanted to bring the old traditional look back to the house and make it our own. I believe you should always respect the architecture and style of your home as the end result will look amazing. To begin with, we focused on painting the downstairs rooms, including the main bedroom, which is between the dining room and living room. We’re in no rush to finish the house, so the upstairs guest bedrooms, office and bathroom will come to life little by little when we can afford it. I like to take my time planning each room and when it comes to interior materials I don’t like to compromise. I’d rather wait until we have the money to do it right. In the long run it works out cheaper as otherwise you’d be constantly changing things. I’d rather save up and buy one
DECEMBER 2020 | 29
Love it
FINNISH HOUSE
WOODY VIBE
expensive table that I’ll love forever, rather than five cheap ones over the course of a few years.
EASY MAKE
‘You can create your own wreath by adding foraged greenery to a wire hoop’
Creating the look
Real timber planking fitted horizontally adds rustic chic
I love graphic design, painting and photography, so have always had a strong desire to express myself visually. After studying interior design, I set up an agency in 2012, so my home acts as a showcase for my work, too. My personal look is a classic farmhouse style mixed with a few industrial touches. I get my inspiration from the outdoors and the sea so I like to keep things simple and light. More than half of our furniture is old and I love painting or repurposing pieces to fit our style, like the old barrel I use as a
‘MIX OLDER PIECES IN AGAINST NEWER PURCHASES TO MAKE YOUR HOME FEEL MUCH MORE PERSONAL’ COSY CORNER
‘The fireplaces were already in the house and we use them every day throughout the winter’
REAL TREE
‘Our old wooden ladders are handy for reaching the top of the tree and for displaying presents on, too’
30 | DECEMBER 2020
IDEA TO STEAL
‘Get the look of real candles with LED candle-effect lights’
WHITE CHRISTMAS
‘I love how the white cabinet pops against the wood panelled walls. The star would work all year round’
Do it! WOOD WALL PANELLING
Reclaimed wood panels, pallets or even floorboards can be attached to your wall using panelling adhesive and nails to create a rustic feature wall with impact. If you prefer a 1970s retro vibe, try Acupanel acoustic wood panelling from The Wood Veneer Hub – it has the added bonus of reducing noise levels. A budget alternative is to cut MDF into 30mm strips spaced 18mm apart and finish with a clear matt varnish. Painting
the wall behind a dark grey will give that ‘shadow gap’ effect. Peel and stick wood boards are a quick and easy way to get the look (try Plus Timber) or choose wood-effect tiles, such as the Mora oak range from Topps Tiles. If your DIY skills are lacking, cheat it with wood-panel effect wallpaper instead. For realistic designs under £20 a roll, try iwantwallpaper.co.uk or worldofwallpaper.com.
DECEMBER 2020 | 31
WINTERY WALKWAY
‘Our hallway is always decorated with lanterns and sprig wreaths to set the tone’
EXTRA WARMTH
S ‘FOR A TRULY FESTIVE WELCOME FOR VISITING FRIEND AND FAMILY, HAVE TWO CHRISTMAS TREES – ONE INSIDE AND ONE OUTDOORS’
‘A built-in log burner ensures we are always cosy in winter’
pot for my olive tree. Mixing old and new makes your home much more interesting and personal. Finland has some great vintage shops, such as Fasaani in Lojo and Helsinki, where you can find everything from classic cabinets to industrial pieces. I also love By Pias and Monday to Sunday Home for boho, beachy pieces.
Festive dressing
At Christmas the house really comes alive. We both enjoy the scents of the festive season, like cinnamon and mulled wine, while we’re dressing the house with lanterns, candles, sprig decorations, wreaths and paper stars in the windows. Natural materials make nice decorations and I often buy Christmas roses, ranunculus flowers and eucalyptus branches to add into the mix. The big Christmas tree is always brought inside as Christmas Eve approaches, but a smaller Christmas tree is already inside during December. Although being together is more important than the gifts, I do enjoy gift wrapping. Black or
32 | DECEMBER 2020
SOCIAL SPACE
‘Our dining room is the perfect size for a six-seater table. The painted panelled ceiling really adds character, too’
FINNISH HOUSE
Love it
OLD MEETS NEW
IDEA TO STEAL
‘I always set the table with my grandmother’s old plates alongside modern square ones’
‘Rise and fall pendants allow you to adjust the height to your needs’
3 of the bestÉ
INDUSTRIAL PENDANT LIGHTS Cast a festive glow over a dining table FRILL SEEKER Sleek umbrella pendant, £69, Industville
COVETABLE COPPER
Bushwick metal pendant light, £39, Cult Furniture
BACK TO BLACK
Duomo industrial ceiling light, £32, Iconic Lights
DECEMBER 2020 | 33
Love it
FINNISH HOUSE
IDEA TO STEAL
‘The end of an old metal rake is ideal for hanging wine glasses’
TREASURE TROVE
‘This black metal vintage display cabinet was a 30th birthday present. It’s full of flea market finds’
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FAMILY FAVOURITES
‘My mum’s wine and schnapps glasses work well with vintage cutlery and greenery to create a festive table setting’
FESTIVE FOOD
‘Porridge with cinnamon is one of our Christmas traditions, usually enjoyed with mulled wine’
‘ADORN THE FESTIVE TABLE WITH NATURE’S DECORATIONS, SUCH AS PINE CONES AND MISTLETOE, FOR A WARM AND INVITING, STYLISH CHRISTMAS SCENE’
white paper tied up with jute string works really well with my style.
Christmas traditions
ON DISPLAY
‘I painted this old cupboard black and took one door off so you can see the shelves inside’
I have lots of happy childhood memories of Christmastime. One that sticks out is Santa reading out all the bad and good things done during the year, and then giving us our presents. I really believed it paid off to be kind, as the elves were always watching! Christmas Eve is the main event for us in Finland. That’s when we open our presents with a glass of mulled wine, which we call glögi. When Björn was growing up, every gift had a little rhyme or poem with it, which was read out loud as the gifts were opened. Everyone had to figure out what the gift might hold inside. It’s a tradition we still continue. This year we’ll be spending Christmas Eve at home having dinner with our brothers and sisters. Then, on Christmas Day, we’ll pack our bags and travel to my parents’ place in the archipelago. First, we enjoy a fish dish
DECEMBER 2020 | 35
such as herring, and then we’ll tuck into grandma’s mettwurst potato salad and meatballs as well as the traditional casseroles and ham.
Future plans We have lots of plans for our home, but we’re happy to take our time bringing them to life. Although the previous owners had just put in a new kitchen, sadly the style is too modern for us so we’re hoping to install a farmhouse kitchen. The fireplaces were also relatively new, but we’ll change them at some point so they fit our style better. We also want to move our bedroom up to the attic, which has old wooden beams, where we can create a simple, tranquil, all-white retreat. The longer we spend here the more we love it, so I really hope this will be our forever home. It would be very difficult to leave here now.’
TWINKLE TWINKLE
‘We’re likely to make more changes in the future, but for now, we love how it’s come together’
Find more clever ideas to style up your home by going to pinterest.com/ styleathomemag
‘MAKE A CANDLELIT BEDROOM SAFE BY PLACING CANDLES INSIDE GLASS LANTERNS AND POPPING THEM SOMEWHERE THEY WON’T GET KNOCKED OFF ’
Where to buy Fransisca’s style INDUSTVILLE For factory-style pendants with varying bulb sizes, creating a rustic-industrial look. THE WHITE COMPANY It has a big selection of crisp table linen and quality white dinnerware. COX & COX The lanterns, rattan baskets and sheepskins are timeless, cosy additions. JN RUSTICUS For characterful tables, consoles and cabinets handmade from reclaimed wood. PEPPERMILL INTERIORS Painted farmhouse dining tables are its speciality, along with vintage restaurant and bar furniture. FURN-ON The natural variations of the reclaimed wood furniture is great for a rustic vibe.
36 | DECEMBER 2020
UNEARTHED GEMS
‘This old leather armchair was bought at auction and really suits the space’
FINNISH HOUSE
COSY RETREAT
‘On Christmas Eve we love having breakfast in our handmade bed, which has an old door for a headboard’
Love it
Do it!
UPCYCLED HEADBOARD
1
First, you’ll need to source a suitable door. Try eBay or local reclamation yards for a vintage door with panels that will bring lots of character to your bedroom. The door’s height will need to span the width of your bed. Remove the back part of the door handle and use a hand sander with 220 grit sandpaper on the surface. An optional display ledge made from round-edged timber could also be cut to fit along the top and fixed with screws. Wax or paint the wood to tie into your colour scheme. You could even hang hooks on the sides. To fix it to your wall, use two pairs of French cleats. These mouldings have a 45-degree slope with one half attached to the wall and the other to the headboard. Attach a strip of wood along the bottom at the back, so your headboard doesn’t tilt forwards.
3
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FEATURE JONNA KIVILAHTI, KAREN WILSON PHOTOGRAPHS KRISTA KELTANEN/LIVING INSIDE
2
FESTIVE COLOURS
‘I’ve used a pale green on the posts to contrast the red’
IDEA TO STEAL
‘Vintage trunks or crates are ideal as rustic bedside tables’
DECEMBER 2020 | 37
£349
URBAN EDGE
Contrast rugged wood with metal. Brody coffee table, SWOON
Buy Fransisca’s style…
EARTHY RUSTIC Natural materials and muted colours sit with vintage finds and industrial elements to create a relaxed, eclectic take on Scandi decor
£22
Downsize with a couple of small trees. Pre-lit mini pine tree, COX & COX
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FEATURE LISA FAZZANI
ringing back some of the original charm and sense of character was Fransisca’s aim with her traditional Finnish wooden house. Creating an authentic backdrop was key, so walls have been painted in muted tones of grey and winter white, and clad in timber. The furniture is a mix of painted farmhouse pieces with repurposed industrial buys and flea-market finds, giving the interior a laid-back rustic vibe. Vintage glassware, festive ornaments and greenery add eclectic finishing touches, with subtle lighting for a welcoming glow.
£24
Pick accessories in earthy tones. Moss Green velvet cushion, MINT & MAY
£6.99 for two
Suspend or rest on a shelf or mantelpiece. Hanging LED paper stars, DOBBIES
£16
Use to serve food or store tableware. Willow bread basket, THE CONTEMPORARY HOME
EARTHY RUSTIC
Buy it
£49
£29.99
Work in a classic table lamp. Dar Nezar table lamp, CASTLEGATE LIGHTS
Add a vintage touch. Patisserie Alex wall clock, WAYFAIR
£40
Try white tableware with a hint of pattern. Mila 12-piece dinner set, NEXT HOME
£24.99 Create an atmospheric glow. Effi glass lantern, LIGHTS4FUN
LIGHT TOUCHES
£120
Go neutral with rustic texture. Gabby jute handwoven flatweave rug, HABITAT
£19.99 Add sparkle with a light-up garland. LED wreath hoop, LAKELAND
£499
Choose solid farmhouse style. Wilby Cream dining table, DUNELM
£79.99
Mix and match upholstered pieces. Genoa dining chair, MY FURNITURE
DECEMBER 2020 | 39
‘This house was TIED UP
‘Wrapped presents make great festive decor before they’re handed out’
COME ON IN!
ABOUT US I’m Clara McGillan, 31. I’m a secondary school teacher and I live here with my partner Nick, 35, a geography lecturer. OUR HOME A 1930s three-bed semi in Bridgend, South Wales. WHEN WE BOUGHT IT The house was stuck in the 1930s style-wise and there had been some very quirky updates made to it. AND NOW It’s still a work in progress, but we’ve got a much brighter, more modern home. STYLE TIP Pick colours that you love. Our colour palette is pink, green, yellow and grey because these colours give a sense of happiness, and your home should make you smile. Being colourful and adventurous can be daunting, but if you love colour, then do it!
42 | DECEMBER 2020
1930S SEMI
Love it
A BIG PROJECT’ BIG REVEAL
‘Although the house needed a lot of work, it also has beautiful features, such as the exposed brick fireplace and the stained glass windows’
Clara and Nick watched DIY tutorials, rolled up their sleeves and cracked on with the job of breathing life back into their home
T
he fact that Clara and Nick’s future home hadn’t been updated in decades wasn’t going to put off the pair from buying it. ‘The property was in the perfect location in Bridgend, which was exactly where we wanted to be, and it had plenty of unique features, such as the large stained glass bay windows and original fireplaces,’ says Clara. ‘We snapped it up, and because we had no experience of renovating, having only ever rented since we left home for university, we had to hit the ground running! We’ve charted our progress on Instagram @dustandbricks.
No time to waste
Buy it
Shop Clara’s boutique chic style PAGE 50
The very first thing we did, even before we received the keys, was to get tradespeople in to assess the works we wanted to do. We couldn’t afford to double up on rent and a mortgage for more than six weeks, so we knew that we had to move fast. The builder and engineer assessed the walls to be knocked through, so that we’d have enough time to order the RSJ steel beams required to create the open-plan kitchen-diner. The electrics hadn’t been upgraded since the 1930s, so the whole house needed to be rewired, which involved removal of the sagging ground floor ceilings, in order for the electrician to pull all the cables through. It was a big job! We had to decide where every single socket should go throughout the house. The existing sockets had been fitted at the bottom of the skirting boards, so it was really difficult to use them for ordinary things like charging phones.
All hands on deck
The house had been left empty for four years, but we were lucky that
DECEMBER 2020 | 43
Love it
1930S SEMI STEP UP
BRIGHT STYLE
‘A home should be fun and these pastel painted stairs certainly brighten up the hallway’
‘We painted the living room walls in Farrow & Ball’s Sulking Room Pink. It goes surprisingly well with the teal and yellow elsewhere in the room’
HANG IT ALL
‘A monochrome fabric hanging is a nice foil to all the colour’
‘PICK A FEW UNIQUE PIECES TO ENSURE YOUR HOME DOESN’T LOOK LIKE ANYONE ELSE’S’ there weren’t any really serious issues to contend with. We worked on it every weekend. One of our first jobs was removing the wallpaper, which had been applied using plaster that had been mixed with coal – they call it Black Ash in South Wales. We got professionals in to replaster, but from there on in, we were doing everything ourselves. We painted all the floorboards and the stairs white as a temporary measure initially. Then we decided to add colour to the stairs and I played around with colour swatches to get the 13 shades that I wanted and had
44 | DECEMBER 2020
them mixed at Homebase. We only used tester pots, but we still have paint left over! Being colourful and adventurous can be quite daunting, but if it’s what you love, then you won't regret it. I’ve set up a colour inspiration hashtag, with seven other colourful accounts, called #colourfiedhomes, which is full of bright, beautiful homes to love and learn from. We’ve been really lucky with the living room space, which features a beautiful bay stained glass window, and when Nick removed the plaster from the chimney breast, it wasn’t as awful underneath
GIFTED TREASURE
Do it!
PAINT YOUR STAIRCASE
‘Our dining table belonged to Nick’s grandmother. We bought the dining chairs separately to match’
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Prepare the floor by securing any loose floorboards. Lightly sand, then sweep, vacuum and mop. Once dry, use a roller or natural bristle paint brush to apply primer, followed by the first coat of paint. Leave to dry. Apply two more coats of paint, allowing each to dry before applying the next.
4
DECEMBER 2020 | 45
DOUBLE-SIDED
‘It took a week to strip down and repaint the door, but we wanted to replicate the exterior yellow on the inside, too’
3 of the best... LANTERNS
Just add candles for a cosy glow NORDIC COUNTRY
Christmas tree lantern, £3.99, Homesense
INDUSTRIAL CHIC Lantern, £4, Poundland
46 | DECEMBER 2020
GOLDEN GLOW
Rustic gold lantern, £21.99, Home Luxe Co
1930S SEMI
Love it
COVER UP
‘The chalkboard and shelf conceals the extractor fan’
IDEA TO STEAL
Instead of expensive tiles, Clara and Nick chose a vinyl splashback
‘SOFTEN HARD CHAIR BACKS WITH COMFORTING, SHAGGY FLEECES’ as we had expected – it was actually beautiful original brick that we’ve been able to wash down with sugar soap.
Fit out CRATE LOOK
‘Painted wooden crates add more storage to the open-plan kitchen and are a unique feature’
When we moved in, in late spring, I suggested that we get a barbecue while we worked on the kitchen. Nick was initially reluctant, but in hindsight we think it was such a good decision, as it came in so handy while the kitchen was unusable. Plus, it’s something we still use now, of course. Nick fitted the Ikea kitchen himself and we’re super pleased with the results. We did pay for someone to fit the worktops, as we didn’t have the tools, but we overcame uneven walls and exacting Ikea instructions to create a really nice space. The previous kitchen was where our dining table is now, and it
could barely fit two people, so taking the wall down has made a huge difference.
Quirky solutions
There was an old loft hatch in the box room, and the previous owner had installed perspex to cover the hole in the ceiling, and hung a light bulb from it. We’ve since wallpapered the ceiling, which we weren’t too sure about originally, as we were worried that it was going to make the space look too small, but because we applied the wall covering right up to the paint rail, you can’t tell where the wall ends and the ceiling begins, which makes it appear bigger.
On a budget
We didn’t want to spend too much money on the bathroom as we’d like to add an
DECEMBER 2020 | 47
extension next year, with a shower room. We really disliked this space though and debated whether we could actually live with it. During lockdown, we decided to paint the tiles with Ronseal One Coat, add a new shower curtain and paint the floorboards. I used leftover pink paint to upcycle the existing vanity unit. We had low expectations, but we love it now.
Seasonal good cheer
Clara and Nick took this leaf print wallpaper onto the ceiling to transform the box room
Find more clever ideas to style up your home by going to pinterest.com/ styleathomemag
FRESHEN UP
‘A splash of paint and a tidy up has made a huge difference in the main bathroom’
FEATURE IFE ADEDEJI PHOTOGRAPHS COLIN POOLE
CEILING CHIC
It’s the first time Nick and I have had a home to call our own, and I love the fact that we get to have a real Christmas tree. I’ve gone for lots of fairy lights around the place for extra twinkle and Nick’s mum has made some beautiful and unique festive items, like the stockings we have hung up in the living room, alongside the lovely inherited antique items from his grandmother. Although we like lots of colour, we’re surprisingly traditional when it comes to decorating for Christmas, but I think it has all come together beautifully for our first Christmas in our first proper home.’
1930S SEMI
Love it
COLOUR CHANGE
‘The room felt dark before and there were polystyrene tiles on the ceiling, but it’s now like a retreat’
‘TRY SOMETHING ADVENTUROUS DECOR-WISE TO GIVE YOURSELF A CREATIVE OUTLET’
Where to buy Clara and Nick’s style LOVE FRANKIE It has a great range of quirky furnishings. I adore its statement lamp shades with decadent fringing. It’s a great shop for finding inspiration.
KOLAB CONCRETE It makes the most amazing and colourful home accessories out of concrete. Think coasters, trays, pots and so much more.
GECKO HOME DECOR A carefully curated collection of unique, ‘don’t need, must have’ pieces for your home. It always has a good range of affordable, industrial homeware.
DUNELM With both practical and stylish items for every room in the house, Dunelm always stocks a wide range of affordable pieces.
PAVOT BLUE INTERIORS For fab dried flowers, real sheepskin rugs, cushion covers and all things bohemian decor-wise.
IKEA A great one-stop shop for all of your basic items and essentials – it’s especially good for sourcing affordable kitchen units. Lots of the pieces are very easy to personalise, too.
R&R
‘We chose the ombre effect to create a sense of calm for guests’
DECEMBER 2020 | 49
£100
A mirrored finish adds even more shine. Nelly ceiling light, HABITAT
£69
Oversized art is great in rentals. Jungle wall chart, FOLK INTERIORS
BuyClara’sstyle…
BOUTIQUE CHIC
PRETTY PEW
£79.99 Velvet adds a chic twist to dining. Kendall dining chair, DUNELM
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT
Glam, dusky rose and luxurious green walls are complemented by velvet upholstery, brass accents and statement lighting
P
ink and green sit on opposite sides of the colour wheel, making them great partners for your interior scheme – Clara has used the colours both on walls and furniture to balance the living and dining space. She’s added sunny yellow and gold elements as highlights, too. Velvet upholstery creates an instantly luxe look, but layering on patterned rugs and soft throws gives a more relaxed feel with tropical prints and accessories adding a characterful spin.
£34.99
Add instant sparkle to a fireplace. Small LED star light, LIGHTS4FUN
£19
Carry festive cocktails on this metal tray, MAISONS DU MONDE
BOUTIQUE CHIC
Buy it
From £8.95
Layer green on green with botanical prints. Cactus Collection No 1 poster, DESENIO
£9
Update with paint to suit your interiors. Knagglig box, IKEA
£17
£49.99
Perfect for planting herbs in the kitchen. Arc planter, PEG & BOARD
Sit this cheeky chap on a bedside table. Monkey lamp, MANO MANO
£34.99 Use illustrated prints to show your style. Frida Kahlo cushion, TROUVA
£125
Stonewashed for character. Rug, FRENCH CONNECTION HOME
£149.99
Timeless mustard adds a warm colour pop. Golden throne armchair, TK MAXX
DECEMBER 2020 | 51
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Fitted to PERFECTION A
You can find stylish, tailor-made curtains and blinds at Hillarys
beautifully dressed window takes a decorating scheme to a whole new level, setting the tone for the entire room. For success, blinds and curtains need to be just right and knowing they are expertly crafted is a big plus for George Clarke. ‘As an architect, I know that when it comes to home transformations, your windows are key,’ he says.
when Paula measured my windows, to the speedy making up service and return visit when she expertly fitted all of our blinds.’ Hillarys goes the extra mile to ensure your curtains and blinds are unique, offering a selection of headings and linings and suggesting cushions to complete the room, all tailored to suit your personal style and budget.
Personal service
Take a tour
George found out more about Hillarys from customer Sheryse who ordered made-to-measure blinds for her new home. ‘It was a blank canvas and I didn’t know where to start, but I just clicked with our local Hillarys advisor,’ she says. ‘Paula came round with swatch books and had some great ideas about design choices and colour schemes, also helping me to make best use of the space. The service was a smooth transition from the first appointment
On a visit to Hillarys’ Nottingham factory, George got to see just how the process works. Guided by senior product manager Yvonne Keal, he experienced first-hand how fabrics – from a huge selection of patterns and colours inspired from all around the world – are expertly turned into made-to-measure curtains and blinds. ‘The finished curtains are quality checked before they leave the factory floor to make sure they are absolutely perfect before they go to
the customer,’ says Yvonne. ‘When they are delivered, the local advisor will then fit and steam them to make sure the pleats hang perfectly.’
Precision fit
Blinds and curtains can be made from the same fabric
Whichever room you’re updating, Hillarys has practical solutions to make life easy. Bedroom curtains and blinds can be made up with blackout lining to block the light, aiding restful sleep. If the living room is chilly, select pleated blinds that trap warmth, layering them with curtains backed with a cosy insulating lining to ward off wintry draughts. For kitchens and bathrooms, Hillarys shutters come
Hillarys can also recommend cushions to match
Each window dressing is custom-made to your specifications
There is a wide variety of prints and plains to choose between
to reach, Hillarys’ automated roller blinds can be opened and closed at the touch of a button. Hillarys takes care of everything – all you have to do is sit back and admire your home’s new look. Plus, since everything at Hillarys is crafted to order, a precision fit is guaranteed, whatever the size and shape of your window.
‘CHOOSING THE RIGHT WINDOW DRESSING CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE - IT’S IMPORTANT TO GET IT JUST RIGHT’ GEORGE CLARKE, ARCHITECT AND TV PRESENTER
FOR MORE INFORMATION 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
in waterproof uPVC versions that will shrug off any moisture. Perfect Fit roller, Venetian and pleated blinds sit within the frame of uPVC patio doors or windows for a neat, minimal look. They simply clip into place, no drilling required, and they have no cords so are a great choice if you have small children. And if any of your windows are hard
HIGH GLOSS
‘This sideboard from Ikea is a great design. It offers such useful storage and its surface reflects the light’
‘We love our MINIMAL STYLE
‘I keep festive decorations simple to create a tranquil atmosphere. The woollen throws and the faux wreath are from The Old Pill Factory, and I found the glass cabinet at Home Barn’
COME ON IN!
ABOUT ME I’m Meg Dobbie and I am a graphic designer. I live here with my husband Phil, an engineer. We have two children, Miles, 27, and Alice, 25, who both now live away from home. OUR HOME A four-bedroomed 1990s barn-style, semi-detached house in Oxfordshire. WHEN WE MOVED IN The property was dated, with lots of pine. But we saw the potential and relished the idea of a new project. AND NOW The light-filled rooms have a modern Scandi feel, which I love. The house is tranquil and a pleasure to spend time in. STYLE TIP I’m a strong believer in only using items that add to a room. By choosing simple designs, I can ensure that pieces go well together.
54 | DECEMBER 2020
1990S SEMI
Love it
SCANDI HOME’
Meg and Phil have updated their Oxfordshire home using simple pieces and a cool Nordic palette for a crisp, modern interior
B
efore moving here, we lived in a terraced house with high ceilings and sash windows, but when we became empty-nesters, we decided we’d like a new style of home and a fresh challenge,’ says Meg. ‘We were already in Oxfordshire and liked the area, but we wanted a rural location, with plenty of space both inside and out. ‘We had been living on a busy main road and the thought of a peaceful location was very appealing, so we were fortunate to find a property on a one-acre plot in a small village with beautiful countryside just on the doorstep.
A change of scene We had been looking for a complete contrast to our previous home; something more modern, with square rooms and straight walls. This property was a dated 1990s house, but we could see an opportunity to turn it into a light, open-plan home that we could decorate in the Scandinavian style we both enjoy.
Expert help
Buy it Shop Meg and Phil’s style PAGE 62
To achieve the look we were after, we enlisted the help of an architect. The brief was to open up the downstairs layout by removing walls and extending at the rear. We wanted a large barn-style kitchen and the pitched roof and skylights we opted for create such a pleasing atmosphere. We are thrilled with the result. This is such an important area of the house; it's the room we spend the most time in, especially when the children are with us.
Rejigging the space Once the new kitchen was completed, the old kitchen became the utility room. Upstairs, we changed the layout by making the en-suite bathroom to
DECEMBER 2020 | 55
IDEA TO STEAL
TIME TO CHILL
‘I painted the canvas in this corner of the living room myself, inspired by the soft Scandi colours of the scheme. The sofa is from Sofa Workshop’
‘Mix faux with real foliage for instant festive appeal’
‘PROJECT MANAGING OUR REFIT WAS VERY INTENSE, EVEN WITH A GOOD BUILDER’
Make it!
WALL ART
Large frameless canvases sit with ease in both modern and more traditional interiors. Make your own wall art with simple hand-drawn or stencilled images and leftover tester pots. Decide on the size to suit the space, and allow for enough wall area around the canvas to achieve balance within the room. Art supply shops sell stretched canvas frames in various sizes; or you could make your own. Hand draw or use a stencil to create images, such as flowers or leaves to achieve a simple style. Using emulsion paint and a small brush, paint the shapes in shades to complement your overall colour scheme.
1 2
3 4 5
56 | DECEMBER 2020
our bedroom smaller, leaving extra space for a larger second bedroom. We also installed a new family bathroom. In our old house we had a traditional Gustavian look, but this time I wanted a an unfussy, modern Scandi feel. For continuity and flow, we continued the same scheme throughout the house, painting walls white and fitting woodfinish laminate flooring. To introduce more character we chose panelling instead of wallpaper. I like the shadow line created between the boards, and having cupboards in the same panelling looks very smart. It’s also good for concealing uneven plaster on the walls.
An eye on purse strings We were on a tight budget, so Phil spent a lot of time making and fitting various items, such as shelving and cupboards. In the kitchen he fitted the units with Ikea carcasses and custom-made the doors. He also made the built-in bench in the utility room. Throughout the house, Phil changed all the interior doors and
1990S SEMI
Love it
CLEVER UPDATE
‘Phil changed the stair spindles and painted the steps in a two-tone finish. Our Miffy light sits in prime position’
BOOK NOOK
‘A wall of shelving forms this cosy area. The shutter is from The Old Flight House and the bench was bought at Laura Ashley’
DECEMBER 2020 | 57
Love it
1990S SEMI ALL CHANGE
3 of the best
BLUE TILES
Use patterns to create a striking splashback MODERN EDGE
Palm Springs in Blue, £66sq m, Porcelain Superstore
VINTAGE BEAUTY
Skyros tiles, £19.99sq m, Tons of Tiles
STAR GAZING
Scintilla Sky tiles, £24.95 sq m, Walls & Floors
58 | DECEMBER 2020
‘Our utility room, which has plenty of storage built by Phil, started life as the original kitchen. The floor tiles are from Tile Mountain’
LOFTY AND LIGHT
‘In this simple, airy space Phil made streamlined doors for the kitchen unit carcasses from Ikea. We found the pendant lights at Original BTC’
IDEA TO STEAL
‘Add interest with random chair styles’ PERFECT BACKDROP
‘The large tiled splashback behind the cooker is from Mandarin Stone’
‘I WORK WITH COLOUR ALL DAY, SO A WHITE INTERIOR IS A WONDERFUL CALMING ATMOSPHERE TO COME HOME TO’ architraves and replaced the existing staircase spindles for a more modern style. I definitely underestimated just how much project managing I would have to do. I spent hours finding suppliers for everything from windows to door handles. Thank goodness for the Internet!
Colour update For the interior, I chose a pale palette which feels tranquil and easy to relax in. I’ve mixed most of the paint colours throughout the house myself. I bought several pots by Valspar and experimented until I reached the exact shade I was looking for. I’ve used white as the dominant colour throughout to give a greater feeling of space. It also provides a neutral backdrop to our furnishings,
whether they are contemporary or vintage items. Thinking about the exterior, I have always loved the look of wood-clad buildings, especially those stained in black; they remind me of East Anglian fisherman’s cottages or Scandinavian houses. The existing wooden cladding had been painted with a brown stain and so I decided to paint all the boards black. Simply changing the colour has made an amazing difference. We also replaced the windows with new sash versions to complete our home’s facelift.
Outdoor life We are now designing the garden and have planted over thirty trees and created a formal lawn, a kitchen garden and even a duck pond. To keep within our
DECEMBER 2020 | 59
Love it
1990S SEMI
budget, we both spent a lot of time doing as much of the work as possible ourselves. But it has been worth it, as the garden has really taken shape now, and we are so pleased with the results.
Family festivities
TRANQUIL SPACE
‘The smart wall panelling behind the bed brings more character to our bedroom, while the wall lights sit neatly against it. I found the blanket box at Habitat’
I decorate the house simply at this time of year, using lots of candles and foliage brought in from the garden. However, I do get a bit carried away with hanging white paper honeycomb pom-poms and snowflakes from the ceiling in the entrance to the kitchen! We buy a large Christmas tree from the farm up the road and then dress the tree minimally, using just silver and white, including candles which I never actually dare light. Our first Christmas in the village felt like we were in an episode of The Archers! There was a Christmas supper in the old village hall, carol singing through the streets, mince pies and mulled wine in a neighbour’s house. And all of this was followed by a candlelit carol service, where the villagers squeezed into the tiny 13th-century church. May there be many more!’
IDEA TO STEAL
‘Wooden panelling conceals uneven walls and adds texture’
Make it!
NATURAL GARLAND
PURE & SIMPLE ‘Smart wood-effect laminate flooring enhances the clean, streamlined look we wanted to achieve’
For a simple, understated focal point, create a feature wall adorned with a natural garland. Once you have chosen the perfect, eco-friendly paint colour for your feature wall, use a brush or a paint edge trimmer to cut in around the edges for a neat finish. Using a roller, large brush or paint pad, fill in the remaining wall. To make the garland, gather outdoor finds; Meg used feathers. Using a needle and cotton, carefully sew loops through each piece. Thread on to a length of string or ribbon, creating an attractive garland to fix to the wall.
FRESH APPEAL
‘The tiled splashback is just enough pattern to add vibrancy here; and blue and white is such a winning combination’
JUST THE SHADE
‘I really like the grey in Alice’s room. The cushions and blanket are from H&M Home; the initials are from The Old Flight House’
COX & COX An inspirational selection of timeless furniture, lighting and accessories to create an easy-to-live-with style. HOME BARN Browse a wonderful selection of decorative items, plus reclaimed and vintage furniture, in a 17th-century barn in Buckinghamshire. THE OLD FLIGHT HOUSE A stylish antiques, vintage and interiors centre full of exciting special finds – and perfect for a spot of lunch too! GARDEN TRADING Chic, contemporary and classic furniture, lighting and decorative pieces for both interior and outdoor spaces. IKEA Scandinavian design at affordable prices, ideal to mix with modern or traditional interiors.
Find more tips for creating a colourful, family home at idealhome.co.uk
FEATURE AND STYLING ANN BROAD PHOTOGRAPHS COLIN POOLE
‘THE CHILDREN LEAVING HOME MADE US WANT TO MOVE HOUSE. I’M SO PLEASED WE DID!’
Where to buy Meg’s style
DECEMBER 2020 | 61
£264.70
£38
Pick light and bright storage furniture. Artic vintage sideboard in White, MAISONS DU MONDE
Hang centrally above a fireplace. Wreath, MARQUIS & DAWE
MODERN SHAPE
Buy Meg’s style…
£14.99
Make it cosy with tactile fabrics. Blue velvet contrast cushion, HOMESENSE
SERENE SCANDI Be inspired by simple Nordic styling to create a contemporary scheme using tranquil shades
M
eg has turned her dated four-bed semi into a light-filled home with a modern Scandi aesthetic. By using white as the dominant colour throughout, along with high-gloss units and soft colours, she has significantly increased the feeling of space. Simple festive decorations, including paper snowflakes, flickering candles and plenty of foliage, evoke a tranquil atmosphere to offset the chaos of the season. Tactile pillows and woollen throws draped on sofa arms are ideal accents for creating a warm, welcoming feel.
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT
MINI TREE
£18
£34.99
Keep spills contained. Hewitt tray table, WAYFAIR
62 | DECEMBER 2020
Display a seasonal bouquet in this Broadwell tall glass vase, GARDEN TRADING
£19.99
Add a warm twinkle with mini fairy lights. Regular potted Christmas tree, LIGHTS4FUN
SERENE SCANDI
£16
Keep on display all year round. Star-shaped light, DUNELM
Buy it
£19.50 Embrace retro paper decs. Two Kirigami snowflakes, COX & COX
£225
Combine practicality with chic styling. Bruges floor lamp, LOAF
From £65
Tranquil blue stripes have a calming feel. Harry rug, NEXT HOME
£7
Create a festive glow. Concrete sunburst citronella candle pot, THE CONTEMPORARY HOME
£899
Pick a simple Scandi-style settee. French Connection Marl four-seater sofa in Teal, DFS
£17
Always keep a warm blanket to hand. Throw, GEORGE HOME
DECEMBER 2020 | 63
Make it
SEASONAL PLACE SETTINGS
THIS MONTHÕS
Makeit Create elegant place settings by putting cutlery in hessian pockets layered on linen napkins. Add sprigs of faux mistletoe tied with engraved ceramic stars. Finish by writing guests’ names in gold pen on Kraft luggage tags.
Natural jute bags, £4 for five; ceramic engraved stars, £2 for four; Kraft luggage tags, £1 for 10, all Hobbycraft
64 | DECEMBER 2020
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH HOBBYCRAFT
Use air-drying clay to make ceramic tags
THE STYLE BOOK MODERN CHRISTMAS
Celebrate Christmas in style with contemporary decorating ideas that will add wow through December and beyond. From opulent looks to laid-back bohemian styles, there’s a seasonal look you’ll love
PLUS!
DECO IDEAS
Pull out and keep!
White pillar candles look elegant all year round
the STYLE RULES KEEP IT LIGHT Brilliant white walls create the feeling of a light, bright space, even in winter. Paint a fire surround in the same shade and reflect light with a statement wall mirror. CREATE A WARM WELCOME Contrast polished surfaces with cosy textures. Layer a mantelpiece with snow-tipped foliage and place faux fur throws and pillows on seating ready for snuggling up.
STICK TO NEUTRALS Pile a stone coloured sofa with textured cushions, adding a little extra sparkle for the season. Sheer curtains with a subtle pattern are ideal in overlooked rooms as they let light in but keep prying eyes out. GO FOR GLAMOUR Mirrored furniture and accessories create a modern feel. Add to the glamour with white, silver and antique gold decorations.
Decorating for Christmas doesn’t have to include primary colours – a sophisticated scheme of dazzling white and silver can have just as much impact
Frosted
GLAMOUR Create an enchanting look in silver and white
THE FABRIC
Sumba Sheer Silver, £65m, Romo
THE WALLPAPER 58215 Classique collection, £62.95 a roll, Galerie
THE PAINT
Wilko Moonlight White matt emulsion, £12 for 2.5ltr, Wilko
THE FLOORING
Hewlett Twist carpet in Linen, £32.99sq m, Carpetright
Give traditional folk style a modern makeover with clashing colours and mismatched prints
Modern FOLK
Marry rich tones with bohemian style
THE FABRIC
Orchard Birds in Rouge, £17m, Studio G at Jane Clayton & Company
THE WALLPAPER Tanlay Dark Red brick wallpaper, £12 a roll, B&Q
THE PAINT
Purbeck Stone estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
THE FLOORING Yarn medium rug, £275, Loaf
Display Christmas cards on lengths of ribbon
Traditional red and green tree decorations can be brought up-to-date by adding a few quirky characters and plenty of sparkle
Why it works the STYLE RULES BRING YOUR TABLE TO LIFE Mix bright jewel tones with laid-back neutrals. A stone coloured backdrop is warmer than white and will let bright accessories sing. DARE TO CLASH PATTERNS For a playful look, juxtapose a stripe tablecloth and tartan cushions with folky florals and simple geometrics. Don’t be afraid to mismatch crockery – perfect if you don’t have a matching set.
SPLASH OUT ON COLOUR Create a cheery mood with rich shades of lapis blue, crimson red and magenta pink. Further the folky feel with natural elements like hanging pine cones and cinnamon sticks on the tree. ADD TEXTURE TO FLOORS Increase the scheme’s inviting bohemian appeal by laying textured flooring such as a natural seagrass carpet and a chunky woven rug.
STYLE AT HOME SAYS… ‘Colourful clashing prints and cosy natural textures make this festive scheme shout “come on in!”’ SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR Stephanie Durrant
the STYLE RULES CREATE SYMMETRY Make a grey sofa and storage the foundation of a sophisticated living room scheme. Paint matching shelving units in the same shade and position for a balanced look. ADD DIMENSION Pick wallpaper with a subtle texture or metallic highlights for depth and shimmer. Warm up the grey tones with accents of blush, rose gold and copper.
MIX OLD AND NEW Update a classic button-backed sofa shape by selecting a modern velvet fabric. Introduce a contemporary square coffee table and sleek glass table lamp. EMBRACE BLUSH For seasonal decor, stick to a palette of blush and silver. Go big for upscale style and hang co-ordinating baubles from a garland above a fireplace.
Add understated luxury with a marble top table
This contemporary look in silver and grey still feels cosy thanks to tactile fabrics, twinkling candles and soft complementary shades
Elegant BLUSH
Combine delicate pink tones with modern greys
THE FABRIC
Murano velvet in Pink, £20m, Studio G at Jane Clayton & Company
THE WALLPAPER Dmitri wallcovering in Bramble, £47.50 a roll, Villa Nova
THE PAINT
Boro durable matt emulsion, £38 for 2.5ltr, Graham & Brown
THE FLOORING Bell Twist in Mist, £39.99sq m, Brintons
Create continuation with white Roman blinds
Industrial LUXE
Warm up a monochrome scheme with copper
THE FABRIC
Chenies in Gold, £46m, Sanderson at Style Library
THE WALLPAPER Wood Grain in White, £40 a roll, Graham & Brown
THE PAINT
Crown Breatheasy Pure Brilliant White matt emulsion, £12 for 2.5ltr, Homebase
THE FLOORING
White planks laminate, £23.99sq m, Quick-Step
Izzy two and a half seat sofa in Canvas Pure Belgian Linen, £1,940, Sofa.com. Similar Bremen geometric copper easy fit pendant, £22, Dunelm
Give your kitchen a festive flourish by hanging paper and wire star decorations from S hooks
Why it works the STYLE RULES BRING DIMENSION TO WALLS Go for wallpaper with a subtle wood grain pattern. In the kitchen, a marble or marble-effect splashback also adds detail. Paint window alcoves in brilliant white to reflect maximum light. ADD INDUSTRIAL FLAIR Source a coffee table with sleek hairpin legs and hang a copper wire pendant light. Pick a simple neutral sofa and add cushions with
subtle textures such as a slubby linen or herringbone weave. MIX NATURAL AND MAN-MADE For a contemporary Christmas scheme, combine silver and white baubles with copper accents and wire stars. Eucalyptus branches and white berries complete the look. KEEP IT COHESIVE Pick white washed wood laminate or vinyl and treat toes to a soft faux animal skin rug.
STYLE AT HOME SAYS… ‘Hints of copper and marble are great ways to add industrial flair to your décor while retaining a polished look’ DECORATING EDITOR, Nicky Phillips
Highland Blue 6ft tree, £89; assorted artificial stems, from 99p; four-taper candleholders in Black, £12 each; elephant figurines, £9.99 each; velvet and sequin butterflies, £3.99 each; star tree topper, £4.99; Midnight Blue glass baubles, £14.99 for 10, all Dobbies
Hang oversized baubles from chair backs
the STYLE RULES SET THE MOOD Dark paint colours help to give larger rooms a more cosseted feel. Try painting classic wood panelling to give it a contemporary revamp or achieve the look with faux-effect wallpaper. MORE IS MORE! It’s time to get creative for festive dining! Create an oversized floral display using dyed grasses and sprigs of eucalyptus to hang
above the table. Black candelabra create a modern contrast. ADD PATTERN ON FLOORING Continue the modern heritage vibe with herringbone or chevroneffect wood flooring in a dark hue. BREAK WITH TRADITION Source a black or navy tree, then adorn with ornate baubles in teal and sapphire. Make room for goldtrimmed butterflies and feathery birds nestled in the branches.
Midnight
OPULENCE Team deep blue with glamorous gold
THE FABRIC
Taboo Sapphire linen, £62.40m, Prestigious Textiles
THE WALLPAPER
THE PAINT
Mariposa durable matt emulsion, £38 for 2.5ltr, Graham & Brown
THE FLOORING Chevron Oak Brown laminate, £23.99sq m, Quick-Step
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Wood panel in Blue, £20 a roll, I Love Wallpaper
Walls in Royal Navy absolute matt emulsion, £47 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Mariinsky Damask Antique wallpaper, £90 a roll, Cole & Son. Stirling bar trolley, £299, Atkin and Thyme
Fake a reflection
Use made-to-measure glass (a classic New York apartment trick), reflective tiles, or mirror-effect wallpaper (as pictured) to help boost light in a dark nook and increase the overall sense of space.
Plush velvets soften the hard look of tile and wood flooring
Make every space
WORK HARDER Upcycling, storage and display ideas to make the everyday easier and more stylish
Walls in Juniper Ash absolute matt emulsion, £47 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. End-banded timber scaffolding boards, £24.24 each, Travis Perkins. Slim Grey metal trolley, £195, Cox & Cox
Wheel out the drinks, or stack clean plates for the next course
Serving nook
Put even narrow alcoves to use with short lengths of worktop or scaffolding planks to hold tableware and condiments – saving you going back and forth to the kitchen.
Walls in Hunter Dunn pure flat emulsion, £50 for 2.5ltr, Paint & Paper Library. Ariella chevron desk, £595, Graham and Green. Heather chair, £109, Cult Furniture
Statement shelving
Make book storage more beautiful – but just as functional – by wall-mounting cube or box shelves in a diagonal pattern. Paint them the same shade as the wall for a streamlined effect.
Display books at alternating angles
Mosslanda picture ledges, £9 each; Vonsbak rug, £60, both Ikea. Philadelphia table lamp, £115, Perch & Parrow
Paint ledges for a coherent look
Picture show
Narrow picture ledges make a gallery space for artwork, postcards and decorative items that you can change with the seasons. Match the ledges to your wall to make them blend in (and your art stand out).
Similar hanging brass wreath ring, £13.50, Peastyle at Notonthe highstreet.com. Green velvet ribbon, from a selection at VV Rouleaux. Lena champagne cooler, £72, Rowen & Wren
Hoop card holder Declutter your mantelpiece by turning cards into a festive wall display in a spare alcove. Simply trim a metal craft hoop or wreath ring with sprigs of foliage and luxurious velvet ribbon.
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Fix cards with double-sided tape
Natural-style decorative 10cm logs, £34 for 12-15 logs, The Log Basket. Similar wreath, £34.99, Gisela Graham. Similar wicker basket, £30, John Lewis & Partners
Keep the theme natural with foliage and foraged finds
Log stacks
Add texture, natural colour and cosiness to a room by stacking round ornamental logs in an empty recess next to a fireplace. Alternatively, get the look with a faux wood-effect wallpaper to create the illusion of a plentiful wood store.
COMING NEXT MONTH...
COSY CHRISTMAS
Whether you’re hankering to curl up with a good book or you’re looking forward to a filmathon, we’ve got a host of cosy looks worth staying in for
Looking for more decor ideas? Visit us online at idealhome.co.uk/style-at-home for more design inspiration and expert style tips to make your home even more beautiful
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Plus… STORAGE SOLUTIONS
PET TREAT GIFT
Do it
THIS MONTHÕS
Doit
Give your furry friends an edible Christmas gift. Simply fill a pretty glass jar with cat or dog treats, stacking them neatly, then finish with a paw print bow and personalised gift tag. You’re sure to be greeted with festive wags or purrs from the recipient!
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH DUNELM
Why not try baking your own pet treats?
Kilner Universal 0.85ltr storage jar, £5; Bowtique paw prints herringbone ribbon, £3.50, both Dunelm
DECEMBER 2020 | 83
Try a speedy
STYLE UPDATE Have fun with these simple but creative ideas that’ll ring the changes in your home without turning into a full redo
1
Frosted Fraser 6ft tree, ÂŁ249, Balsam Hill
84 | DECEMBER 2020
Hang a row of festive wreaths
Fill empty wall space above a sofa or sideboard with a line-up of wreaths, hung two or three in a row. Add extra glitz by weaving in a set of twinkly micro lights or wiring on mini glass baubles that echo the colour theme of your tree.
EASY UPDATES Merry Christmas window sticker, £5.99, Ginger Ray
2
Love it
Lynton chest of drawers, £199; Sara floor lamp, £59; fairy-shaped light, £22, all Dunelm
CREATE A WINTRY WINDOW SCENE
Bring sparkle to a plain pane by adding a festive window greeting. Easy to apply, etched stickers can be cut to size and reused year after year.
3
Deck the hall so it looks jolly
Start your festive scheme at the front door with a colourful array that will bring instant cheer. Festoon picture rails and coat hooks with pom-pom bunting and novelty decs. Then style the console with a stack of wrapped gifts.
TOP BUYS
To spruce up your home Mini snowy trees on log, £12.99, Dobbies
Christmas tree jar candle, £10, Next Home
Fir print jug, £16.99, Homesense
Galvanised light-up house, £10; small hanging house lanterns, £4 each, both Sainsbury’s
4
Eucalyptus Christmas half wreath, £17.99, Lights4fun
SET UP A CHRISTMASSY CENTREPIECE
Create a super-easy table arrangement that will look magical after dark. Buy a light-up house lantern to place in the centre, with smaller ones dotted along the length, clustered with mini brush trees and twinkling fairy lights. DECEMBER 2020 | 85
Woodbridge stars, £10 for four; spindleback chair, £170, both Garden Trading
5
Line shelves with Christmas crockery
Supplement plain dinnerware with an inexpensive set so you’ll have plenty to go round if you’re entertaining a crowd. Display on open shelves, working in a few fir sprigs for a festive aroma.
PERFECT PICKS For a Christmassy touch
Reindeer dinner plates, £22 for four, Dibor
Robin plates and mugs, from £3 each, all Matalan
6
SWAG CHAIRS WITH GREENERY
Use spare remnants of fabric cut into lengths long enough to loop over a chair back, then add swags of foliage and a bauble tied with string.
Christmas car with tree bedding set, from £10; cushions, from £6 each, all George Home
Stacking mugs, £10, Sainsbury’s Home
Rosette tree topper, £35, Notonthehighstreet.com
Merry Christmas garland, £30, National Trust Shop
86 | DECEMBER 2020
7
GET THE SPARE ROOM GUEST-READY
Give the spare bedroom a mini makeover so you’re prepared should family and friends sleep over. Add festive bedding and an extra blanket at the end of the bed so guests don’t get chilly in the night.
EASY UPDATES
Love it
Go for lightweight felt cut-outs in a range of shapes and sizes
8
Go big with a hanging centrepiece
Harlow dining table, £200; Skandi bench, £70, both Argos. Decs, from £2 each, Sainsbury’s Home
Give your table the wow factor with this season’s must-have hanging arrangement. Start with a sturdy branch suspended from the ceiling, then wire on greenery and decs.
DECEMBER 2020 | 87
Add hanging baubles tied with satin ribbon
9
Make the bedroom look magical
Bring Christmas cheer to every room with a few festive touches upstairs. Make the bed the focal point by adding foliage to the headboard or bed frame. Use fresh greenery if you can, or create a similar effect with a faux garland.
88 | DECEMBER 2020
Winter Foliage kingsize duvet set, £25, Sainsbury’s Home
EASY UPDATES
Love it
Mission bed, £239; Festive Folk duvet set, from £8; cushions, from £10 each, all Dunelm
10
White glitter, £4 for 40g, Hobbycraft
MAKE A MINI SNOW SCENE IN A JAM JAR
Repurpose old glass jars to create your own miniature winter wonderland. Use cake-decorating trees and figures, adding a layer of salt or white glitter as the snow.
FEATURE LISA FAZZANI PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Baubles, from 50p each; stocking, £5; star, £10; twine trees, £12, all George Home.
11
Decoratea kid’scorner
Try an easy room redo for a little one that they’ll love long after the festivities are over. A brilliant way of updating a plain bedroom, simply paint a house shape across a corner, complete with a window and chimney.
MUST-HAVES For the holidays
Christmas Eve plate, £2.50, Wilko
Green and white knitted stocking, £4.99, Homesense
12
Highland Stag hot water bottle, £27, Sophie Allport
PACK A PUNCH WITH A PINT-SIZED TREE
If you’re pushed for space and a large tree isn’t an option, downsize to a smaller one that will fit into a corner. Forget fiddly ornaments and go big with statement baubles.
Wooden star scene, £6, Matalan
DECEMBER 2020 | 89
‘We used every Buy it
Love Athina’s style? Shop the look on PAGE 95
STYLE CHOICE
‘I chose black ovens for their sleek appearance’
COME ON IN!
IDEA TO STEAL
‘Brighten and dim Ikea’s Tradfri smart lighting below the worktop and cupboards with a remote’
ABOUT ME I’m Athina Bluff, 28, an interior designer and founder of Topology Interiors (@topology interiors). I live with my partner, Theo McInnes, 28, a photojournalist, in a one-bedroom basement flat in southwest London. We moved here in April, 2018. MY CHALLENGE The kitchen wasn’t to my taste, but the main problem was the lack of work surface and storage. The layout needed replanning and we wanted to improve the light. MY WISH LIST Improving functionality was top of our list. We wanted a design that blended with the open-plan living room.
90 | DECEMBER 2020
MONOCHROME SCHEME
‘I’ve created harmony between the two rooms by sticking with the same colour palette’
KITCHEN MAKEOVER
Love it
INCH OF SPACE’
Athina turned her nondescript London basement kitchen into a bright, fully-functioning open-plan space
T
heo and I had both been house-sharing in southwest London and when we decided to move in together, we wanted to stay in the same area. We viewed this basement flat and were delighted,’ says Athina. ‘Flats in London are expensive and often have poky rooms, so we were really pleased with the open-plan living space.
Choosing the scheme
Although we loved the open-plan concept, the living room needed smartening up and I wanted the kitchen to blend in so it felt like one room. I’m not a huge fan of colour, so we painted the living room walls dark grey and brought in dark wood and black accents in the furniture. I had my sights set on black or charcoal grey kitchen cupboards and was really pleased when I discovered Ikea sold affordable matt black cupboards. I was tempted to have a black worktop, too, but I decided the room would feel too enclosed. I went lighter on surfaces, settling on Ikea’s pale grey gloss cupboards for the walls, a white worktop and white tiles. The white makes a great contrast – I love the monochrome look.
Planning the layout
TOTAL
£9,961 TURN OVER FOR MY SHOPPING LIST
We’re both keen cooks and as the kitchen area is a snug 2.6x2.3m, we felt really frustrated with the lack of storage and worktop space. We’d often get in each other’s way or I’d open one of the cupboards and a bag of rice would fall on my head! I had a play around with the layout on SketchUp. I moved the cumbersome fridge-freezer out of the alcove and planned in a double oven tower and slimline pantry as there’s more ceiling height there. I found space for a smaller undercounter fridge-freezer and when I took my ideas to Ikea, they finessed the layout. It’s a free service and a kitchen planner came to our
DECEMBER 2020 | 91
Love it
KITCHEN MAKEOVER
Do it!
BRASS SWITCHES AND SOCKETS
MODERN TOUCHES
‘I chose a matt black tap to tie in with the handles and lighting for a smart, coordinated finish’
FUSS-FREE DESIGN
‘Arranging plain white tiles in a herringbone pattern adds interest without enclosing the kitchen or clashing with the living room’
Where to buy Athina’s style
Ringhult cabinetry in High-Gloss Grey and Kungsbacka cabinetry in Anthracite, £2,000; Tutemo ash open cabinet, £25; Eneryda cup handles, £9 for two; Bagganas knobs, £5 for two; Havsen inset sink, £115; Bosjon mixer tap, £100; Livslaga gas hob, £150; Finsmarkare microwave combi, £600; Finsmarkare forced air oven with pyro steam function, £800; Matalskare extractor, £165; Omlopp lighting strips, £25 each; Hektar ceiling track, £25; Vaxmyra LED spotlights, £9 for two; Tradfri dimmer kit, £10; Skararp marble-effect quartz worktop, £450sq m, all Ikea. Artisan gloss white tiles, £71.20m, Topps Tiles. Fintorp knife rack, £7; Smaata chopping board, £10, both Ikea. Industrial pole with hanging baskets, £115, Maisons du Monde
FEATURE JANE CRITTENDEN PHOTOGRAPHS GEORGIA BURNS
Focus on the details and inject life into mundane sockets and light switches with a brass finish to reflect the latest trend for metallic colour accents. Warm metallics, such as gold and brass, glow against dark tones of charcoal and black – in Athina’s kitchen they match the accents in the open-plan living room. It’s easy to find brass switches and sockets in DIY shops. They come in a range of finishes, including antique, brushed brass, polished brass and satin brass, with black or white plug holes. Choose either a flat or bevelled edged plate in a contemporary, Victorian, Georgian or Art Deco style – or go screwless.
HEIGHT AND LIGHT
‘A glossy finish to wall cupboards, tiles and the worktop bounces light and draws height into this basement room’
‘INSTALL LIGHTING BENEATH THE COUNTER AND CABINETS TO REALLY BRIGHTEN UP A WINDOW-LESS KITCHEN’ flat to measure-up and double-check everything would fit. I’m glad we did that because there were a few issues with the plumbing and gas outlets, which meant they had to adjust the position of the hob and the sink. We were given an itemised list to mull over before we placed our order and decided to take out some lights in the drawers because we didn’t really need them.
Fitting the kitchen
Ikea organised the kitchen fitters and it went very smoothly; they fitted all the cupboards in a week. By then we’d decided to splash out on a quartz worktop instead of laminate. They can’t template until the cupboards are fitted so it took another ten days before the
kitchen was finished. We had a bit of a tense moment with the tiler who started the splashback, but didn’t do the herringbone pattern I wanted, so he had to start over. On a positive note, our fitters said they could build a wine rack in a gap we had at the end of the worktop. They used the cut-offs and it’s a nice bespoke touch.
Finishing touches
I’m particularly pleased with the black fixtures. A part of me was nervous a black kitchen would look too dark and cramped, but I was right to trust my instincts as I love it. It’s a dream to have lots of storage, nice appliances and plenty of worktop space – I still get a little buzz when I come in here.’
MAX-OUT
‘I made use of dead wall space by fitting a hanging rail with storage baskets and place for the tea towel’
Find more tips on creating an industriallook bathroom at idealhome.co.uk
DECEMBER 2020 | 93
Do it
QUARTZ WORKTOPS
Athina’s choice: A QUARTZ WORKTOP
Upgrade scruffy surfaces for a sleek and streamlined on-trend option
Whatisquartz?
A man-made surface formed from mineral quartz mixed with resins and pigments, it’s also known as composite or engineered stone. The ratio is around 90% quartz to 10% binding and colouring agents.
WhyshouldIchooseit?
Quartz is considered more durable, heat resistant and easier to maintain than natural stone. It’s less porous, which means it’s more resistant to stains, as well as chips and scratches and the surface only needs to be resealed occasionally. And because it’s very dense and compact, bacteria doesn’t grow or spread as readily, making it hygienic too.
WhatcolourscanIchoose?
One of the main benefits of quartz is that it comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, from solid-coloured to multi-
BEST FOR… EASIER INSTALLATION
Maxtop Quartz worktops are made from solid quartz but with a unique honeycomb core that makes them lighter and easier to handle and install, as well as cheaper.
TOP PRODUCT RANGE
Caesarstone has unrivalled expertise and product range and its online visualiser lets you see how different colours and styles will look in situ.
A QUICK FIX
Granite Transformations offers topper quartz or granite worktops that fit on top of your existing worktop so there’s less mess and upheaval.
tonal quartz which features flecks of colours mixed in. Unlike natural stone, the pattern and colour of quartz is more uniform, so you can be sure that what you see in the showroom, is what you’ll get.
Arethereany disadvantages?
Some people find it a bit flat and characterless. And it’s not cheap – expect to pay around £300sq m plus for solid quartz – and that’s before installation. However, for a small space, it can be worth the outlay, as it lifts everything around it.
CanIinstallitmyself?
Although it is possible to buy single lengths of quartz ‘off-the-peg’ for self-installation, professional templating and installation is safer, particularly if you want curves or integrated sinks and hobs. Your kitchen designer can recommend a reliable company.
QUARTZ WORKTOPS TRUE VEIN
Silestone quartz worktop in Bianco Calacatta, from £400sq m, Cosentino
HowdoIlookafterit?
As with granite, quartz worktops are easy to clean and maintain. All you’ll need is a cloth and warm soapy water. But although quartz is stain resistant, it’s still a good idea to wipe up any spills immediately as highly acidic substances can discolour the stone and oil can leave a residue and dull the finish. While quartz can withstand mild heat, avoid placing very hot pans and trays on it as they can damage the surface.
‘QUARTZ CAN GIVE YOUR KITCHEN A HIGH-END LOOK. WITH A HUGE RANGE AVAILABLE, IT CAN WORK IN ANY KITCHEN’ RUTH CORBETT, HOUSES EDITOR
94 | DECEMBER 2020
3 of the best
JET SET
Strata quartz worktop in Marquina, from £350sq m, Second Nature
SMART FINISH
Quartz worktop in Lucern Lake, £280sq m, Radianz
FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON, LISA FAZZANI
P
ractical, durable and stylish, quartz is a strong contender if you’re seeking a low-stress work surface for your kitchen.
MODERN MONO
Buy it
Buy Athina’s style…
MODERN MONO
FEATURE LISA FAZZANI
Smart black and white will add a chic look to any kitchen
Warm things up with wooden accent pieces. Wooden chopping board, £12.99, Homesense
Supplement storage with a handy wire rack. Freestanding two-tier wire unit, £15, Argos
Try strip spots for focused lighting. Hektar ceiling track, £25, Ikea
Organise cooking tools so surfaces stay clutter free. Dewar utensil holder, £8, Habitat
Co-ordinate colours with cast-iron cookware. Coalbrook casserole pot, £35, Garden Trading
Style up shelves with flowing greenery. Loft Mustard trailing house plant, £5, Sainsbury’s Home
SLEEK STRONG SHAPE
Liven up bare walls with framed photography. Metropolis Building poster, from £12.95 (unframed), Desenio
Add a jazzy splashback. Pixel White herringbone gloss tiles, £3.65 per sheet, Walls and Floors
Upgrade a standard sink with black hardware. Cooke & Lewis Tolmer black tap, £70, B&Q
DECEMBER 2020 | 95
STYLE BLEND
‘We’ve used rustic materials to suit the farmhouse’s age, mixed with up-to-date pieces’
COME ON IN!
‘We made some
INDUSTRIAL CHIC
‘The bath is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Down Pipe masonry paint. It’s made from lightweight acrylic, so was easy to manoeuvre into place’
ABOUT ME I’m Holly Hunt, 36, and I live with my husband Giles, 39, a landscaper and groundworker, and our two boys, Albi, eight, and Ozzie, six, in a three-bedroom Victorian detached house in Stroud. We moved here in 2015. THE CHALLENGE I wanted a modern bathroom suitable for a growing family of four and to do this we needed to change everything. The original space was barely usable and far too small to fit a bath and separate shower. There wasn’t a thing we wanted to keep so we decided to relocate the room to increase its size. MY WISH LIST The floor tiles in the shower were my one must-have and we used them as the starting point to inspire the rest of the scheme. I was adamant about having black accessories, too.
96 | DECEMBER 2020
Buy it
Shop Holly’s style PAGE 101
BATHROOM MAKEOVER
Love it
BRAVE CHOICES’ IDEA TO STEAL
‘Bring a second-hand mirror back to life with a lick of paint’
After a floorplan rethink, Holly converted a small bedroom into a designer-chic bathroom, making room for a luxurious shower and bath
W
ith this house, it wasn’t just a case of a simple update; we had to completely gut the property,’ says Holly. ‘But it was quite freeing to be in a position to make decisions that didn’t compromise with the previous owner’s taste or renovations. The original bathroom was tiny and as wrecked as the rest of the house, and it was too small for our growing family. I wanted a much bigger, lighter space, and as we’d already decided to redesign and extend the whole house, it made sense to move the bathroom next door to the smallest bedroom and knock through to make it slightly bigger. This meant we could keep the old bathroom in use while we did the work, so even when the joining wall was removed and the end of the old bath was cut off, we still had a shower we could use in the other end of the room.
In the beginning
TOTAL
£2,325 TURN OVER FOR MY SHOPPING LIST
We started by gutting the room and then drew out the new plan on the floor. The design was mine, with some discussion and small compromises with my husband, who is really handy and brilliant at facilitating my ideas and making them a reality. I get inspired by other people’s homes and bathrooms, and I always take photos of decor that I like. I saw the floor tiles in a magazine and instantly fell in love with them, though they were eye-wateringly expensive, so we could only afford a small meterage.
The hard work
As we were renovating every room, we had to be mindful of where our
DECEMBER 2020 | 97
Love it
BATHROOM MAKEOVER
Make it! DIY A
BASIN STAND
1
Add character to your bathroom by making a washbasin stand; it requires good diy skills, but is worth the effort. Cut a wooden base to size, then sand and varnish it. Choose a countertop-mounted sink that works with the proportions of the base; think about the space around the edge for soap and toothbrushes. Cut a hole in the base that’s big enough for the waste pipe. Measuring is key, but the basin should sit nicely over the hole. Attach your chosen poles and fixings for the legs, measuring a comfortable height, to the base. The unit can now be fixed to the wall and plumbed in.
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TOP TILES
‘The beautiful backgammon-design tiles were my main extravagance and we’ve never regretted the cost’
Find more tips on how to create a modern monochrome bathroom at idealhome.co.uk
‘CHOOSE CAREFULLY WHERE TO SPEND AND WHERE TO SAVE. FLOORING SETS THE SCENE FOR THE ROOM SO IT’S A GOOD INVESTMENT, BUT HUNT AROUND FOR BARGAINS’ money went – the flooring and the yellow wall light were fairly big spends, but we balanced this by doing most of the work ourselves. Giles did the manual work in the evenings and weekends, including moving the stud wall and fitting the shower, bath and toilet, which was hard and tiring with two small children around, but it mostly went okay. Strengthening the floor was difficult as extra joists had to be added and other pieces taken out to make space for the tiled area. We also had a small issue with how the shower drains. But I remember feeling so pleased when the tiles finally went down and at that point we could really see the vision of the bathroom coming together.
Finishing the room
We considered using copper tubing for a rustic look, but I knew I really wanted black hardware, so I shopped around for the best quality products and found lots of bargains online. The black shower and taps were our biggest bargain of the renovation, costing only £70 for the lot! I also decided to paint a cheap
98 | DECEMBER 2020
BOLD DECISION
‘I wanted dark grey grout to highlight the metro shape and, although our tiler was reluctant, I’m glad I insisted’
PIPE DREAM
‘The sink base is made from cheap galvanised poles and fixings usually used for handrails. Giles cut the poles to length and put it together, then I painted it to match the bath’
‘An anglepoise lamp adds versatile lighting’
‘My dad built the airing cupboard for us. He’s got good DIY skills, so it was great having him to help’
free-standing bath to save money, rather than buy an original cast-iron one, and I’m really pleased with the result. It’s acrylic, so is lighter than it looks, which meant we were able to move it into the room ourselves without too much trouble, and it was very easy to install. I love the colour yellow, so for a final touch we decided to use it to complement the black accessories – it really brings the room to life.’
Where to buy Holly’s style
Double-ended roll-top bath with leg set, £399.95; Nuie wetroom screen, £79.95; try Turin Black heated towel rail, £99.95, all Victorian Plumbing. Shower, £35; sink tap, £15; bath taps, £20, all eBay. Antique Black bronze brass bathroom wall waterfall shower and tap set TFB410, £238.99, UK Taps, is a close match. Matte Black Lynx single-lever Monobloc tap, £29.99, Wayfair. Chester retro Antique Black handshower mixer tap, £96.99, Homary. Craquele White wall tiles, £29.99sq m, Tile Mountain. Popham Design Backgammon Oyster and Milk cement floor tiles, £197.31sq m, Day True. White stone resin oval bathroom washbasin, £139.99, Homary. Poles and joiners for the basin stand, prices start at £1.28 for a Short Tee tube, The Metal Store. Clarity close coupled toilet with seat, £79.99, VictoriaPlum.com. Ferm Living bathroom shelf, £55, Utility Design. Yellow Jielde Signal adjustable wall light, £174.25, Holloways of Ludlow
FEATURE AND STYLING LISA MOSES PHOTOGRAPHS KATIE JANE WATSON
IDEA TO STEAL
BUILT-IN STORAGE
DECEMBER 2020 | 99
Do it
WALK-IN SHOWER
Holly’schoice: A WALK-IN SHOWER
Love the unrestricted access of Holly’s shower? We outline the pros and cons route means you’ll avoid the hassle and expense of tanking.
WherecanIbuyone?
A walk-in shower has no door – hence the ‘walk-in’ – but it does include at least one shower screen. Walk-in showers come in two main styles. The single entry has access at one end, which is great for installing in a corner or alcove. A double entry design is fixed centrally and can be accessed from either end.
The easiest route is a complete walk-in shower package, which will take the guesswork out of matching up components and calculating budgets. They are widely available and come with the tray, screen and all the waste fittings in one. If you are tanking the floor, you will need specialist membrane materials and a wet room drain that can cope with the flow rate of your shower – check with your plumber if you’re unsure.
ShouldIgoforatray or tankthefloor?
Whatsizeandshape shouldIchoose?
Tanking the floor, and walls, will provide completely level access and is worth considering if you have less-abled users or want to future-proof your home. Tanking will also provide the slickest, designer look. However, taking the tray
This will be dictated by the space available but ideally you want to go for at least 100x80cm – the bigger the better. Walk-in showers tend to be rectangular so that they can be used as two zones – one end for showering and the other for drying off.
Whyisitcalledawalk-in?
BEST FOR… EASY CLEANING
Soak.com stocks frameless shower panels from £87.99, all treated with an EasyClean finish that repels water and prevents staining.
MODERN DESIGN
Frontline’s black grid walk-in shower panels feature a digitally integrated grid pattern to achieve the on-trend industrial look without the dirttrapping potential of metal framing.
STURDY SUPPORT
Aqata has developed a ceiling fix column that attaches from floor to ceiling for secure installation of its shower panels, without compromising the frameless look.
LOW LEVEL TRAYS FAST FLOW
Easy clean vortex waste can handle powerful showers. Kai stone resin shower tray, H2.5xW140x D90cm, £320, Crosswater
HowdoImakeitlevel? Completely uninterrupted entry requires tanking the floor to make it waterproof, or a flush-fit tray but neither option is cheap. Slimline trays are the next best option and come in depths from 2.5cm to 3.7cm so the step up into the shower is negligible. Not every bathroom is suited to low-level trays, as they can be too low to achieve sufficient fall for the water to drain. Siting the shower nearest the external soil pipe will help – ask your builder or plumber.
‘THE LACK OF A DOOR, AND VIRTUALLY FRAMELESS GLASS MAKES FAST WORK F CLEANING A WALK-IN’ RUTH CORBETT, HOUSES EDITOR
100 | DECEMBER 2020
3 of the best
SAFETY FIRST
Built-in anti-slip coating. Tread anti-slip shower tray, H2.6xW120x D80cm, £346, Bathstore
MODERN WASTE
Linear waste for a smart drain design. Simpsons low profile stone resin tray, H2.5xW120x D90cm, £292.87, Victorian Plumbing
FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON
A
cting as a hybrid between an open-plan wet room and fully-enclosed shower cubicle, a walk-in shower offers easy, low-level access and a luxuriously spacious showering area.
BRIGHT & FRESH
Buy it
Buy Holly’s style...
BRIGHT & FRESH
Personalise a simple mono scheme with pops of vibrant colour
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT
COMFY CHOICE
Opt for soft textiles in a zesty shade. Egyptian cotton towels in Burnt Orange, from £3 each, Dunelm
Go for zero-maintenance greenery. Joe artificial spider plant in pot, £44, Maisons du Monde
Always be greeted by a circle of sunshine. Aimee Saffron Yellow round mirror, £80, Habitat
Angle to cast light where it’s needed. Oswald wall spotlight in Yellow, £49.99, Wayfair
Invest in a luxurious coloured tub. Duke Blue double-ended roll-top bath, £539.95, Victorian Plumbing
Hang in the shower to hold bathing essentials. Ferm Living bathroom shelf in Black, £55, Amara
Make geometric tiles the focus on floors. Neapolitan porcelain tile in Blue, £59.04sq m, Ca’ Pietra
Add a note of hotel-style elegance. GoodHome Onega round counter-top basin, £48, B&Q
Double up fabric containers as planters. Dot Dash print canvas storage pots in Teal, from £22 each, Bohemia Design
DECEMBER 2020 | 101
Make it
GINGERBREAD HOUSE ADVENT
Gingerbread house Christmas Advent calendar boxes, £8.99, Ginger Ray
THIS MONTHÕS
Makeit
Start the countdown to Christmas by making your own Advent decorations. Fold 24 mini gingerbread houses from card and draw on details, plus a number for every day of Advent, using a white pen. Pop in little gifts, tie with string and hang on your tree.
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT
Alternatively, save time with a handy kit
102 | DECEMBER 2020
INSIDE EAT, TRY & DO!
GREAT STUFF TO
CARDS TO MAKE
FOOD BUYS
GIFT WRAP TIPS
CHOCOLATE ORANGE TRIFLE TAKES 25 MINS, PLUS COOLING SERVES 10
FEATURE ROSE FOOKS RECIPE AND PHOTOGRAPH TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
3 medium eggs, plus 2 yolks 50g caster sugar 4tsp cornflour 450ml full-fat milk 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds removed 8tbsp Cointreau or Triple Sec 500g chocolate chip brioche, cut into 1cm slices 700g clementines, peeled and sliced into rounds 600ml double cream 4tbsp icing sugar TO DECORATE Zest of 1 orange Chocolate curls 3ltr trifle bowl YOU WILL NEED
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Whisk the eggs, yolks, caster sugar and cornflour together. In a pan heat the milk, vanilla seeds and scraped pod until steaming. Whisk half of the hot milk into the egg mixture, before returning all to the pan. Remove the vanilla pod. Cook over a gentle heat, whisking until the custard is thick, bubbling and smooth. Decant into a container and cover with cling film pressed against the surface. Leave to cool.
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Drizzle half the liqueur over the brioche, put half the slices in the bowl, then half the clementines and half of the cooled custard. Whip the double cream, icing sugar and remaining liqueur until it forms loose peaks; spoon half onto the fruit. Layer with remaining brioche, clementines and custard, then top with remaining cream. Sprinkle over the zest and chocolate curls. Chill until ready to serve.
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BOOZY PUD
p1
HOME-MADE GIFT IDEAS
CS p112 DIY DE
p116 EASY CHRISTMAS LUNCH
DECEMBER 2020 | 103
Make it, love it! QUICK GIFTS
Left someone off your gift list? These thoughtful kits and easy makes look impressive but can be put together in a flash Perfect for a friend with a sweet tooth
CHRISTMAS BISCUITS JAR YOU WILL NEED Glass jar with lid Caster sugar Iced biscuits Glitter card Scissors Twine
1
Make your own edible snow globe by filling the bottom of a large glass jar with caster sugar to look like snow. Flour would also work, but may stick to your biscuits. Bake your own or buy readymade Christmas-themed iced biscuits and arrange them in the sugar to create a festive scene. Press down gently to make them stand but make sure you don’t snap them! Using scissors, cut a star shape tag from glitter card and punch a small hole in the top. Tie to the jar lid with ribbon or twine. Give as a gift or use as a table centrepiece.
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Croft collection glass canister medium, £20, John Lewis & Partners.
USE READY-MADE BISCUITS, LIKE ONES IN THE HAPPY CHRISTMAS LUXE TIN, £48, BISCUITEERS, TO MAKE SEVERAL JARS 104 | DECEMBER 2020
TIME AT HOME
GARDENER’S GIFT SET
Make it
Similar mini glass bottles with cork stopper, £3.50 for five, Hobbycraft
YOU WILL NEED Trug Shredded paper Terracotta pot Gardening scissors Wooden dibber Seeds Mini glass bottles Gift tag Metallic pen Twine
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Aspiring gardeners and green-fingered friends will love this handy set. Pad a rustic metal trug with shredded paper. Arrange a terracotta pot, gardening scissors and a wooden dibber in the trug, nestling them neatly among the shredded paper. Sprinkle seeds into mini glass bottles, labelled with growing instructions and place in the pot with more shredded paper. Alternatively, use a packet containing their favourite fruit, vegetable or flower seeds. Finish by writing ‘watch me grow’ in metallic pen on a matching gift tag and tying it to the trug with twine. If desired, embellish with pretty leaf skeletons or motifs cut from printed paper.
3
4
Plant sweet pea and aquilegia seeds in January Fill cookie cutters with a homemade bird seed mix, adding a ribbon for hanging
PAMPER GIFT BOX YOU WILL NEED Large gift box Shredded paper Candle Prosecco Chocolate bar Glass jar Bath salts Wooden scoop Chalkboard label
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Give the gift of me-time to someone you love. Fill a gift box with shredded paper. Try recycling a box from a previous present or purchase to save money.
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Add a scented candle, mini bottle of wine or prosecco and the recipient’s favourite chocolate. Fill a lidded glass jar with sweet-smelling bath salts and a mini wooden scoop, and arrange in the box. Finish with a chalkboard label on a wooden tag, along with sprigs of eucalyptus and bottle brush trees. Replace the lid and remember to keep upright!
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Chalkboard labels, 75p for 10, Wilko
DECEMBER 2020 | 105
Make it
TIME AT HOME
SEWING ESSENTIALS KIT IN A JAR YOU WILL NEED Scissors Fabric Needle and thread Toy stuffing Glass jar Glue Haberdashery Ribbon
1
Push in pretty sewing pins
Cut a circle of fabric and work a running stitch around the edge using a needle and strong thread. Pull to gather, inserting a small amount of toy stuffing into the centre before securing the thread to create a pin cushion. Take a glass jar with a two-part banded lid and remove the centre disc. Push the pin cushion through, then glue the disc back underneath. Fill the jar with pretty haberdashery items such as embroidery scissors, spools of thread and other sewing essentials. Tie a length of tape measure print ribbon around the lid to finish.
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SOURCE VINTAGE SEWING ITEMS AT CAR BOOT SALES AND CHARITY SHOPS, OR ASK A RELATIVE TO RAID THEIR OLD SEWING TIN
Similar printed cotton tape measure ribbon, £1.20m, Ray-Stitch
PLANT AND SPICES TAGS YOU WILL NEED Fimo modelling clay Rolling pin Steel ruler Craft knife Alphabet embossing wheel Acrylic paint Fine paintbrush Gloss varnish Twine
1 Check out more thoughtful Christmas gift ideas at idealhome.co.uk
106 | DECEMBER 2020
Roll out Fimo modelling clay to make a 12x16cm rectangle, 5mm thick. Using a steel ruler and a craft knife, cut eight rectangles measuring 2x12cm. Stamp out the names of herbs and spices by selecting your
2
chosen letters on the embossing wheel and pressing each one into the clay. Place on a baking tray and harden in the oven as per the manufacturer’s instructions and leave to cool. Dab acrylic paint into the embossed letters using a fine paint brush. Once dry, apply a coat of gloss varnish. Leave to dry. Wrap potted herbs or houseplants in muslin tied with baker’s twine and press the relevant tags into the soil ready to give to a budding cook or plant lover.
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FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Fimo Effect Metallic Copper modelling clay, £2.58, Amazon.co.uk
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Make it, love it!
GREETINGS CARDS & GIFT WRAP Save the pennies by making your own Christmas cards and wrap using simple techniques and everyday items
BUTTON GREETINGS CARDS
White buttons, 50g, £1.20, Hobbycraft
YOU WILL NEED Grey card Selection of white Glue Fine black pen buttons Adhesive pearl gems
1
To make the snowman card, fold a piece of grey card in half and lay flat with the fold at the top. Alternatively, use ready-made card blanks. In the bottom right-hand corner, attach a large white button using strong glue. Add a smaller white button on top as the snowman’s head. Use a fine black pen to draw details like the snowman’s hat, scarf and arms. Add pearl adhesive gems to the rest of the card to look like falling snow. To make the hanging baubles card, fold a piece of grey card in the same way. Using a fine black pen, draw several equally-spaced lines from the top of the card to look like threads, adding little bows at the end. Glue buttons or adhesive gems to each ‘thread’ as glittering baubles. Finish with a handwritten message.
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NEED A CHRISTMAS CARD IN A HURRY? WHIP UP ONE OF THESE DESIGNS IN LESS THAN FIVE MINUTES! Find more DIY and decorating ideas at idealhome.co.uk
108 | DECEMBER 2020
Swap buttons for adhesive gems
TIME AT HOME
GIFT CARD ENVELOPE
Make it
Gold glitter dipped feathers, £3 for six, Hobbycraft
YOU WILL NEED Scissors Pencil Old sheet music Metallic card Glue Velvet ribbon Paintbrush Feather Gold glitter Alphabet stickers
1 2
Cut out four 12cm-diameter circles from sheet music, or similar printed papers, and one 12cm square from metallic card. Fold all the circles in half, then open them out. Overlap the circles so that the folds form a square in the centre. Glue the circles in place, then stick the metallic square on top. Pop the gift card inside, then fold the other outer halves of the circles into the middle of the square and secure in place with a length of velvet ribbon. Paint a little PVA glue onto the tip of a feather and dip in gold glitter. When dry, tuck the feather beneath the ribbon. Add an alphabet sticker to match the recipient’s initial to finish.
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Cute gift bags make simple takeaway favours for guests
Upcycle old sheet music
Music note printed A4 Kraft paper sheets, £2.99 for 10, Little Crafty Bugs
WOVEN PAPER RIBBON YOU WILL NEED Selection of wallpapers or craft papers Scissors or guillotine Decorative tape
1
Make 12 1cm-wide strips of paper (ours were 30cm long). Take six strips, line them up next to each other, and fix at both ends with some decorative tape.
2
Line the other six strips up, but only tape them at one end. Weave each strip in and out of the other set, alternating each time. Once woven through, tape the remaining ends. Adjust the strips so that the woven area is in the middle, position this on the top of your gift (this works best on a gift with a flat surface), then tape in place on the back of the gift.
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DECEMBER 2020 | 109
Make it
TIME AT HOME
STAMPED GIFT WRAP YOU WILL NEED Wool Offcut of timber Clear tape Roll of brown or white paper Metallic paint Paintbrush
Recycled brown Kraft wrapping paper, £4 for 10m, Paperchase
Finish by layering pretty ribbons
1
To create a stamp, tape a length of wool to one side of a timber block. Wind it around the block, allowing it to cross over in places and making sure there are gaps left between the strands of wool. Tape in place on the back and trim any excess wool. Roll out the paper and use paperweights to hold in place. Apply metallic paint to the wool using a paintbrush. Be generous, but try to keep the paint on the wool without leaving blobs of paint on the wood. Gently press the stamp onto the paper and lift carefully. Repeat to cover the paper (to alternate the patterns, turn the block 90˚ each time). Leave the paper to dry before wrapping your presents.
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CHRISTMAS TREE CARD YOU WILL NEED Black card Pin Self-healing cutting mat Jewellery wire Star sequins Clear tape
1 Sequin stars, £1 for 400, Little Crafty Bugs
110 | DECEMBER 2020
Fold a piece of black card in half and lay on a flat surface with the fold to the left. Or if you prefer, use ready-made card blanks. Use a pin and self-healing cutting mat to carefully make a small hole in the centre-top of the card front, then continue to make 10-13 equally spaced holes diagonally
2
towards the bottom edge. Mark with a pencil first if preferred. Repeat to make holes working in the opposite direction on the other side of the card to create an upwards arrow shape. Try to make the holes horizontally parallel. Carefully thread fine jewellery wire through the top hole and continue to work it in and out of the holes from left to right, as if you were lacing a shoe. Thread on star sequins as you go and secure the loose wire with a little tape on the reverse.
3
4
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
DECORATING RECYCLABLE BROWN PAPER IS A GREAT ALTERNATIVE TO USING LESS ECO-FRIENDLY GLITTER OR FOIL DESIGNS
PHOTOGRAPHY SIMON BEVAN
WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF
The one-stop edit of the best modern style and design ideas.
BE INSPIRED.
Make it, love it!
DECK THE HALLS
Adorn your home with beautiful handmade wreaths, garlands and decorations to prettify your Christmas table and tree
Polystyrene wreath base, ÂŁ4, Hobbycraft
PAPER FOLIAGE WREATH YOU WILL NEED Satin ribbon Polystyrene Pins Card wreath base Decorative papers Scissors
Use up scraps of decorative papers
1
Wind a wide satin ribbon around the wreath base until completely covered, then pin the ends on the back to secure. Cut leaf templates from card – we used three sizes. Trace the templates to cut around 90 leaves from different decorative papers. Fold the paper to cut several leaves at once. Crease each leaf down the centre. Secure groups of leaves to the wreath with pins, working in one direction and overlapping them so the pins are hidden by the tips of the next group (you can adjust their position later). Pin a ribbon to the back of the wreath to create a hanging loop.
2 3
112 | DECEMBER 2020
USE OLD SHEET MUSIC OR W K ONTO CARD TO ADD EXTRA CHARACTER
TIME AT HOME
FRUIT NAME HOLDERS YOU WILL NEED
Rust-Oleum Metallic Bright Gold Brilliant Finish spray paint, £9 for 400ml, Wilko
Budgetfriendly table dŽcor
Pears Knife Old newspaper Gold spray paint Black paint or pen Cocktail sticks Strong glue Black beads Scissors Self-adhesive labels
Make it
1
Wash and dry several pears, depending on the number of guests you will have. Remove the stalks, then slice off the bottom of the pears with a knife. Spray the pears with an even layer of gold paint. Leave to dry on newspaper. Use black paint or a fibre-tip pen to colour the cocktail sticks black. Once dry, glue a bead onto one end. Cut a strip from a self-adhesive label. Remove the backing, then fold it around the top of the stick, beneath the bead. Use scissors to snip a V shape at the end to create a flag. Write a guest’s name on each flag, then push the cocktail sticks into the pears. Display at each place setting on your festive table.
2 3 4 5
Create a simple garland by sewing together triangles of decorative paper
Black card, £3 for 50 sheets of A4, Hobbycraft
SILHOUETTE CANDLE HOLDER YOU WILL NEED Mason or jam jar String Black card Pencil Scissors or craft knife Spray adhesive
1
Measure the diameter of the jar with a piece of string, then cut a piece of black card to the same length and around 8-10cm tall. Leaving a band around 2cm-thick along the bottom of the card or paper, draw a landscape design with
2
a pencil – trees or houses with simple windows work well. Cut out the design using scissors or a craft knife (protect the surface beneath with a self-healing cutting mat if using a knife). Cover the reverse of your design with spray adhesive, then wrap it around the outside of the glass jar and press to fix in place. Once dry, pop in a tea light to create a glowing wintery lantern.
3
4
DECEMBER 2020 | 113
Make it
TIME AT HOME
MEDALLION TREE DECS YOU WILL NEED Printed paper Glue Acrylic gems, sequins or beads Double-sided tape Needle and thread
1
For each medallion, cut two rectangles from printed paper – we used 5x10cm for large decorations and 2.5x5cm for the smaller ones. Make narrow folds on each rectangle back and forth along its length to create a tight concertina. Fold in half widthways and crease. Gently open out, then bring the inside edges of the fan together and glue to form a half-moon shape. Glue two half moons together along the straight edge to make a medallion. Cut a small disc from a sheet of paper, glue an acrylic gem in its centre and use double-sided tape to attach to the middle of each medallion. Use a needle and thread to create a hanging loop.
Make in a variety of sizes
2 3
Find more fun craft ideas and seasonal decorating tips at idealhome.co.uk
POM-POM GARLAND Similar cupcake cases, from £2.99 a pack, Lakeland
ADD SPARKLE WITH MORE BEADS STRUNG ONTO THE GARLAND BETWEEN THE POM-POMS 114 | DECEMBER 2020
YOU WILL NEED Coloured tissue paper Assorted Doilies Darning cupcake cases Embroidery thread needle Assorted beads
1
Using a pair of compasses or assorted cups and saucers as templates, cut circles out of tissue paper in different sizes. Flatten and smooth out the cupcake cases.
2
Layer up around 30 circles, cases and doilies, decreasing in size from the centre out. Thread a darning needle with a strand of embroidery thread and loop it several times through a bead. Take the stack of circles, push the needle through the middle and slide the papers down to meet the bead. Add another bead to hold them in place. Continue until your garland is the desired length.
3
FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
Clear adhesive gems, £1.35 for 102, Hobbycraft
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Serve up a
FESTIVE FEAST Celebrate in style with these ideas from our Test Kitchen experts‌
STAROF THE SHOW
BACON LATTICE TURKEY TAKES 2 HRS 45 MINS, PLUS RESTING SERVES 6-8 1 turkey, about 5.5kg 1 lemon, cut in half 1 bulb of garlic, cut in half through the middle 2 bay leaves 2 large carrots, cut into chunks 2 onions, quartered 2 celery sticks, cut into chunks 50g butter, softened 16 rashers of streaky bacon
1
Make sure the giblets are removed from inside the
116 | DECEMBER 2020
turkey. Put the lemon, garlic and bay leaves into the cavity. Put the chopped veg in a large roasting tray. Put the turkey on top of the veg and tuck the wings underneath the breasts. Rub the butter into the legs and sides of the bird. To make the lattice, lay 8 bacon rashers on the turkey breast. Working left to right, fold every other rasher in half
2 3
and lay another horizontally in the centre. Fold back the bacon rashers and repeat with the alternate rashers until the top and bottom of the breast are fully covered with bacon. Heat the oven to 200C/ Gas 6. Pour 200ml water into the base of the roasting tray. Roast for 30 mins, reduce the heat to 160C/ Gas 3 and roast for a further
4
2 hrs. To check the turkey is completely cooked, insert a skewer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh; if the juices run clear and there’s no pink, the turkey is done. If not, return to the oven for a further 15 mins and check again. Transfer the turkey to a large serving platter. Cover with foil and allow it to rest for about 30 mins before carving.
5
TIME AT HOME
LITTLE EXTRAS
Cook it
HERBY PORK AND CHESTNUT STUFFING BALLS TAKES 45 MINS MAKES 18 BALLS 3-4 rashers of smoked streaky bacon, chopped 1 red onion, finely diced 15g unsalted butter 175g vacuum-packed chestnuts, roughly broken up 100g fresh breadcrumbs 500g sausagemeat 1 egg yolk 8 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped 2 sprigs of rosemary, finely chopped 3 sprigs of thyme, finely chopped 10 dried apricots, roughly chopped
1
Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Add the bacon to a frying pan over a medium-high heat and cook for 5 mins. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onion and butter, and continue to cook for around 15 mins, until the onions are soft. Mix in the chestnuts at the end. Add the remaining ingredients into a large bowl with the bacon mixture and mix well. Roll the stuffing into 18 balls and place into a roasting dish. Cook for 30 mins.
2
SPICED RED CABBAGE TAKES 2 HRS 45 MINS SERVES 8 2 red onions, sliced 2tbsp oil 3 3 cloves 1 cinnamon stick star anise 1 red cabbage, thinly shredded 3 Bramley apples, cored and finely 150g brown sugar 75ml chopped 150ml red wine red wine vinegar Zest and juice of 1 orange
WINTER WARMER
1
In a large pan gently fry the onions in the oil until soft. Add the star anise, cloves and cinnamon stick, and cook for another 5 mins. Layer the red cabbage with the apples, onions and brown sugar. Pour in the red wine vinegar, red wine, orange zest and juice. Cover with a lid and cook over a low heat for 2 hrs 30 mins, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little water to keep it moist.
2 3
USE UP THE LEFTOVERS
DECEMBER 2020 | 117
SWEET POTATO GRATIN TAKES 1 HR 10 MINS SERVES 2 AS A MAIN 500g sweet potato, cut into thin slices (set some aside, and cut into stars) 50g chestnuts, roasted and peeled 15g butter 4tbsp chestnut purée 150ml double cream 150ml vegetable stock 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves stripped 60g vegetarian Italian hard cheese 30g breadcrumbs
1
Heat the oven to 180C/Gas 4. Arrange the sweet potatoes in an ovenproof dish in rows, overlapping a little. Scatter half of the chestnuts over the top and repeat. Melt the butter in a pan and whisk in the chestnut purée. Add the cream, stock and thyme to warm through. Season, then pour over the sweet potatoes and chestnuts. Sprinkle with half the cheese and cook for 40 mins. Now top with the remaining cheese, then breadcrumbs and the star slices, and cook for another 15 mins until the gratin is golden brown.
2
THIS DISH CAN BE A DELICIOUS HEARTY SIDE OR A SPECIAL VEGETARIAN MAIN
STAR SIDE
BRUSSELS SPROUTS TAKES 25 MINS SERVES 6-8 750g Brussels sprouts, trimmed 50g butter 4 garlic cloves, crushed 50g chopped hazelnuts 2tsp brown sugar
1
Blanch the sprouts for 5-10 mins, then drain and steam-dry. Heat a pan and, when hot, add the butter. Shake the pan until the butter foams, then add the garlic and hazelnuts. Add the sugar and keep shaking the pan. When the nuts have slightly caramelised, toss in the sprouts for 1 min to heat through.
2 FRENCH STYLE
BLANCHING THE SPROUTS HELPS THEM TO KEEP
TIME AT HOME
Cook it
SQUASH, ONION AND BRIE PIES TAKES 1 HR 20 MINS SERVES 8 3 queen or butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and cut into large chunks 4 red onions, peeled and cut into thin wedges 10 sage leaves, chopped 5 sprigs of thyme, leaves only, plus extra to garnish 4tbsp olive oil 800g mushrooms, quartered, smaller ones left whole 300ml creme fraiche 350g Brie, cut into chunks 750g puff pastry Plain flour, for dusting
2 eggs, lightly beaten 2tsp fennel seeds YOU WILL NEED 2 pie dishes or 4 large ramekins
1
Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Put the squash in a large roasting tin with the onions and season well. Stir in half the sage, thyme and olive oil. Roast for 25-30 mins, stirring occasionally, until tender. Meanwhile, put the mushrooms in a separate
2
roasting tin. Season well, and add the remaining herbs and olive oil. Stir thoroughly to combine. Roast for 10 mins. Stir the mushrooms and creme fraiche into the squash and leave to cool. Spoon the mixture into the dishes and divide the chunks of Brie between the pies. Roll out the pastry to half the thickness of a ÂŁ1 coin. Cut strips of pastry and use to cover the rims of the pie
3
4
dishes, then brush with egg. Cut the remaining pastry into pieces just bigger than the dishes. Cover the pies with the pastry, then use a fork to seal the edges. Glaze with egg, then cut a small cross in the centre of each pie. Scatter with thyme leaves and fennel seeds. You can chill the pies in the fridge for up to 24 hrs, then bake on a baking tray for 25 mins or until golden.
5
6
VEGGIE OPTION
DECEMBER 2020 | 119
CHRISTMAS DINNER PLANNER THE WEEK BEFORE Make the Christmas pudding THE DAY BEFORE Make the Yule log Cook the prosecco ham Prepare the squash, onion and Brie pies ON THE DAY 9:00 Remove the turkey from the fridge, so it has time to come to room temperature before cooking. 10:45 Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. 11:00 Put the turkey in the oven and begin to prep the veg and stuffing balls. 11:30 Reduce the oven to 160C/Gas 3 and start on the red cabbage. 1:00 Bake the ham in the oven (if your oven is not large enough, cook this in advance and warm it through once you have taken the turkey out). 1:20 Put the sweet potato gratin in the oven. 1:30 Remove the turkey from the oven and rest it. Increase the oven temperature to 200C/Gas 6 and cook the stuffing balls and ham in the oven. 1:40 Blanch the Brussels sprouts and begin steaming the Christmas pudding, so it’s warm for dessert. 2:00 Everyone to the table.
SPARKLING SPECIAL
PROSECCO HAM TAKES 9 HRS SERVES 16 2 onions, quartered 2 bay leaves 1 sprig of parsley 1 sprig of thyme 3kg unsmoked boneless gammon joint, skin removed 1ltr cider FOR THE GLAZE 3tbsp golden syrup 5tbsp Dijon mustard A splash of Prosecco Cloves, to garnish
1
Heat the oven to 240C/Gas 9. Spread the onions and herbs over the base
120 | DECEMBER 2020
of a large casserole dish to act as a trivet and put the meat on top. Pour over the cider and put the lid on or tightly cover the ham with foil. Put the roasting tin into the oven for 20 mins, then turn the heat down to 120C/Gas ½ and cook the ham for 8 hrs. Remove the ham from the dish and transfer to a chopping board. Discard the onions and any leftover cider.
2 3
4
Use a sharp knife to score the fat in a criss-cross pattern. For the glaze, mix the golden syrup with the Dijon mustard and prosecco. Brush all over the ham. Stick the cloves into the fat where the score lines cross. Increase the oven temperature to 200C/Gas 6. When hot, bake the ham for 30-40 mins until it has taken on a deep golden colour.
5
TIME AT HOME
Cook it
TIPSY YULE LOG
XMAS CLASSIC
TAKES 45 MINS, PLUS COOLING SERVES 8 125g golden caster sugar, plus extra 4 eggs 40g plain flour, sifted 40g cocoa powder, sifted Chocolate stars and icing sugar, to decorate FOR THE FILLING 200ml double cream 50ml Irish Cream liqueur FOR THE FROSTING 150g unsalted butter, softened 300g icing sugar 1tbsp milk 50g dark chocolate, melted YOU WILL NEED 25x30cm Swiss roll tin, lined with baking parchment
1
Heat oven to 220C/Gas 7. Whisk the sugar and eggs until thick, around 10 mins. Gently fold in the flour and cocoa. Pour into the tin and bake for 8 mins or until springy to the touch. Sprinkle greaseproof paper with caster sugar. Turn the sponge out onto the paper. Peel off the parchment and roll up from the short side. Set aside. To make the filling, whip the cream and liqueur until it can just hold its shape. Unroll the sponge, spread with the cream and roll up again. To make the frosting beat the butter, icing sugar and milk until fluffy. Mix in the chocolate and spread on top. Top with chocolate stars.
2 3
4 CHRISTMASPUDDING TAKES 4 HRS, PLUS SOAKING MAKES 2 PUDDINGS EACH SERVES 8
FEATURE ROSE FOOKS RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM
500g mixed dried fruit 200ml brandy 50g flaked almonds 270g dried figs, chopped 200g candied peel 100g glacé cherries, halved Zest and juice of 2 oranges 1 apple, peeled and grated 6 eggs 200g shredded suet 1tbsp ground mixed spice 250g dark muscovado sugar 250g breadcrumbs 175g plain flour Holly and redcurrants, to decorate YOU WILL NEED 2 x 1.2ltr pudding basins, each with a circle of paper at the bottom and greased
1 2
Put the dried fruit in a large non-metallic bowl, pour over the brandy. Cover and leave to infuse for 24 hrs, if time allows. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Divide between the basins, pressing down lightly. Cover with a circle of baking parchment. Cover with more baking parchment and a sheet of foil, tie securely in place with string. Place in 2 steamers and steam over simmering water for 3 hrs. Top up the water regularly, so that the pan doesn’t boil dry. Once cooked, remove from the heat; cool. Re-cover with fresh parchment. To reheat, either wrap in foil and steam for 1 hr or microwave on high for 4 mins. Turn out and decorate with redcurrants and holly.
3 4
GRAND FINALE
INGREDIENTS AND KIT WEÕVE USED Mionetto Prosecco Merchant Gourmet Chestnut Purée Superfast Thermapen Thermometer
DECEMBER 2020 | 121
travel ................................................
OFFERS
Departures from April to October 2021
Lake Como, St Moritz & the Bernina Express 8 days from £879pp On this wonderfully varied tour we explore Lake Como, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, plus some stunning icons of northern Italy and Switzerland.
l Take a lake cruise to beautiful Bellagio on Lake Como l Full-day visit to St Moritz, including a journey on the spectacular Bernina Express
So much included l 3 guided tours and 5 visits l Experienced tour manager l Return regional flights and hotel transfers
l 3-star to 4-star accommodation l Daily breakfast and dinner
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This tour is a wonderful blend of some of the finest sights in northern Italy. See the snow-capped Dolomites, St Mark’s Basilica and Verona, the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
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So much included l 3 guided tours and 1 visit l Experienced tour manager l Return regional flights and hotel transfers
l 3-star to 4-star superior accommodation l Daily breakfast and dinner
Departures from March to November 2021
Pompeii, Capri & the Bay of Naples 8 days from £759pp
Stylish Lake Maggiore straddles both Italy and Switzerland and justifiably, was a favourite of Hemingway, Chaplin and many others.
l Tour exquisite Lake Orta and its medieval village of Orta San Giulio
The Sorrento peninsula and the Bay of Naples are located in one of the most beautiful corners of Europe, attracting visitors for centuries in search of outstanding scenery, tranquillity and wondrous sights from throughout history.
l Travel through the Simplon Pass to Zermatt and the Matterhorn
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l Full-day tour visiting Cannobio and Locarno, with a journey on the Centovalli railway
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l 4-star to 4-star superior accommodation l Daily breakfast and dinner
Reassuringly Riviera: Because you mean the world to us. In these uncertain times, you need a holiday provider you can trust. At Riviera Travel, we put our customers first. That’s why we have best in class customer care policies to look after your interests, so all you have to worry about is your packing.
So much included l 3 guided tours and 3 visits l Experienced tour manager l Return regional flights and hotel transfers
• • • •
l 3-star to 4-star superior accommodation l Daily breakfast and dinner*
Change your booking for free throughout 2020 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 to book or for a free brochure 01283 523471 or visit www.styriviera.co.uk Prices are based on two people sharing and are correct at time of print. Single supplements may apply. This holiday is operated by and subject to booking conditions of Riviera Travel, ABTA V4744 ATOL 3430 protected. Subject to availability. Additional entrance costs may apply. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. For further information please write to Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP. *Stays at the Hotel Mediterraneo and the La Badia are on a bed-and-breakfast basis. See website for full details.
TIME AT HOME
Love your leftovers
Jacksons Festive Bloomer, £1.39 for 400g, Waitrose & Partners
This bloomin’ brilliant Sage & Onion Festive Bloomer from Jacksons is the ideal loaf for the ultimate Boxing Day turkey sarnie! It has an intense sage flavour that complements the meat splendidly. Add a few pigs in blankets, a generous dollop of cranberry sauce, some leaves and you’re all set!
THE BEST EVER
Everything you want from a mince pie and more! Speciality Mince Pies, £14.95 for 12, Bettys
TIN OUT OF TIN
Festive Food
NEWS
Celebrate in style with these sparkling buys selected by our Test Kitchen Experts
3 of the best... MINCE PIES
HIT THE JACKPOT
Everyone will adore the salted caramel filling. Specially Selected Millionaires Mince Pies, £1.99 for six, Aldi
FEATURE ROSE FOOKS
THE VEGAN OPTION
You would never guess these pies are egg- and dairy-free. Oggs Luxury Handmade Mince Pies, £2.50 for four, Sainsbury’s
Cook it
This year, Cadbury has collaborated with ceramics designer Emma Bridgewater to create this gorgeous floral tin full of your favourite Roses chocolates. Cadbury has been making Roses since the 1930s and they’ve become a Christmas essential. But did you know, the name Roses comes from the company which built the machines that wrapped the chocolates? £9.99 for 800g from major supermarkets.
Cheat’s eats!
Christmas dinner and all the trimmings has never been simpler. We are big believers that everyone should enjoy Christmas to the fullest. So if toiling away in the kitchen isn’t your idea of fun then Cook has come to the rescue! Its tasty festive range includes absolutely everything you’ll need, including this magnificent Stuffed Crown of Turkey. Other delights include starters, puds and party food, all ready with minimal effort so you can sit back, relax and celebrate with everyone else. Serves eight, £45, cookfood.net/christmas
PIP & NUT’S DELICIOUS FESTIVE GINGERBR MON BUTTER PIPANDNUT.COM) COSTS £3.95, WITH 25P DONATED TO THE HACKNEY FOODBANK DECEMBER 2020 | 123
EXPLORE MORE on a luxury river cruise
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8 days from £1,199PP With a visit at every port, spacious cabins, included dining and personal touches, explore more for less on our five-star river cruises. Upgrade to a Riviera river cruise and let your worries drift away.
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Departures from March to November 2021
Change your booking for
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River Cruise
Duration
From
8 days
£1,389PP
With so much included
Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbfields
● Spacious and beautifully appointed suites or cabins with hotel-style beds and river views
Amsterdam, Kinderdijk & the Dutch Bulbfields
5 days
£979PP
Budapest to the Black Sea
15 days
£2,679PP
The Blue Danube
8 days
£1,289PP
● Exceptional cuisine with full board throughout
Cruise the Heart of Europe
15 days
£2,949PP
● Extensive and inclusive touring programmes
Medieval Germany
8 days
£1,739PP
Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg
8 days
£1,689PP
Amsterdam, Cologne & the Best of Holland & Flanders
8 days
£1,199PP
Rhine & Moselle
8 days
£1,489PP
● Return flights from a choice of regional airports or standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras (supplements may apply)
The Douro, Porto & Salamanca
8 days
£1,489PP
● Return rail connections on selected dates and cruises from over 50 regional stations (supplements may apply)
The Seine, Paris & Normandy
8 days
£1,489PP
Burgundy, the River Rhone & Provence
8 days
£1,489PP
● The services of an experienced cruise director and concierge
Rhine Cruise to Switzerland
8 days
£1,839PP
Vienna, Bohemia & the Treasures of the Danube
8 days
£1,489PP
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.
To book or to order your free brochure Call 01283 523471 Visit styriviera.co.uk
• • • •
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
ABTA No. V4744
Prices are based on two people sharing and are correct at time of print. Single supplements may apply. This holiday is operated by and subject to booking conditions of Riviera Travel, ABTA V4744 ATOL 3430 protected. Subject to availability. Additional entrance costs may apply. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. For further information please write to Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP. 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 website for details.
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THINK FISCHER THINK ELECTRIC.
WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DAY MAKES -
Here at Fischer Future Heat, we want to make your life as easy and as warm as possible. Our dynamic German clay core radiators are designed to be aesthetically pleasing, as well as efficient and controllable for complete comfort and peace of mind. They contain a purpose built convection chamber, a patented 40mm chamotte clay core and come with a fully programmable wireless thermostat as standard.
Transform your conservatory in less than one day. No mess - No upheaval. Our lightweight, heavily insulated panels simply slot into your existing conservatory framework, providing a solid roof for your conservatory. This ensures your conservatory is warmer & quieter in winter and cooler in summer. Manufactured in the UK. this is a fast and convenient way to turn your conservatory into a beautiful new room. All panels are guaranteed for 10 years.
Learn more about Fischer Future Heat and request your FREE catalogue by calling 0800 074 6959 or by visiting the website at: www.fischerfutureheat.com
Call 0800 65 25 157 to request a FREE quote. Quote ATH1120 to receive 10% off this month! www.greenspaceconservatories.co.uk
RISE ABOVE THE CROWD WITH A STILTZ HOMELIFT
STUNNING GARDEN OFFICES
Transform your home with an elegant Stiltz Homelift, perfect for traditional and contemporary homes. The subtly-curved, clear-sided car of the Stiltz Duo+ Homelift is unlike any other domestic lift. It has a small footprint and travels through the floor on discreet vertical rails. What makes it extradesirable is it’s freestanding and therefore highly flexible when it comes to placement options.
Working from home has never been easier. By investing in your very own garden office, you will save on time, money and stress whilst creating a better work life balance. Crafted, manufactured and professionally installed in the UK, SMART offers a wide choice of styles, sizes and optional extras. Prices start from as little as £7,944.
For a free information pack, call 0808 250 9145 or visit www.stiltz.co.uk
Contact us for a copy of our catalogue or a FREE no obligation consultation. Telephone: 0800 242 5559 Website: smartgardenoffices.co.uk
BRANCHE D’OLIVE 96% NATURALLY DERIVED* 97% RECYCLED PLASTIC
CLASSIC LUXURY WITH A SCANDINAVIAN LOOK - £150 OFF!
To purchase with 10% Christmas discount call 01235 771254 (quoting ath11/20) or visit www.branche-dolive.com using ath11/20 at check-out.
Available on “Fast delivery”, within just 2-3 days. 3 Seater was £499, 2 seater £399 now £150 off each when you quote M7NOV20. Delivery excluded. Visit outandout.com or call 02037 728 752 by 02.12.20.
Our newly reformulated signature bath/body Olive range (centre bottles in image) *averages 96% naturally derived ingredients. Dermatologically tested as suitable for sensitive skin, it excludes parabens, animal products, mineral oils, silicones, synthetic colours and phthalates. This range uses 97% recycled and 100% recyclable plastic.
The Guarda sofa range in 2 and 3 seaters are the perfect blend between comfort and design. Handmade on a solid frame and upholstered using spun polyester, the fabric has an on-trend herringbone design in a chic, grey or mint shade. See website for sizes.
See all our listings at about-the-house.co.uk. To advertise please contact Michael on 020 7843 6958 or email michaelguest@about-the-house.co.uk About the House and the companies shown in this advertisement feature are wholly independent of Style at Home Magazine. Care has been taken to establish that the advertisers are legitimate. It is recommended that you carry out your own checks before making a purchase. When making a purchase we recommend payment by credit card.
MARKETPLACE
Looking for something special? You'll find it in our easy-to-follow guide
CHRISTMAS GIFTS
www.bournehome.com
THE LUXURY OF CHRISTMAS FURNTURE
• • • • • •
The Laundry Ladder For Free Delivery (Mainland UK only) Use code SAH20 before 31st December For details visit: www.juluhome.co.uk or call 033 022 32855
•
Primed, or primed and painted units can now be provided
enquiries@pineland.co.uk
To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 07813 031 023, or email charlotte.beckett@futurenet.com
MARKETPLACE
Looking for something special? You'll find it in our easy-to-follow guide
To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 07813 031 023, or email charlotte.beckett@futurenet.com
Where to
SHOP
Find out where to get your favourite buys in this issue
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Aldi 0800 042 0800 aldi.co.uk Amara 0800 587 7645 amara.com Amazon.co.uk Annabel James 0345 548 0210 annabeljames.co.uk Anthropologie 0800 0026 8476 anthropologie.com Argos 0345 640 2020 argos.co.uk Atkin and Thyme 020 3768 7775 atkinandthyme.co.uk B&Q 0333 014 3098 diy.com Balsam Hill 01234 227155 balsamhill.co.uk Bathstore 0333 241 2701 bathstore.com Beaumonde 01202 707770 beaumonde.co.uk Bettys 0800 456 1919 bettys.co.uk Biscuiteers 0870 458 8358 biscuiteers.com Bohemia Design 01315 552485 bohemiadesign.co.uk Brintons 0800 505055 brintons.co.uk Ca’Pietra 01380 735886 capietra.com Carpetright 0330 333 3444 carpetright.co.uk Castlegate Lights 01642 714444 castlegatelights.co.uk Choosing Keeping 020 7613 3842 choosingkeeping.com Cielshop 01273 443837 cielshopinteriors.com Cole & Son 020 8442 8844 cole-and-son.com Cosentino cosentino.com Cox & Cox 0330 333 2123 coxandcox.co.uk Cream Cornwall 01326 317253 creamcornwall.co.uk Crosswater 0345 873 8840 crosswater.co.uk Cuckooland 01305 231231 cuckooland.com Cult Furniture 020 8185 6960 cultfurniture.com Daisy Park 01769 579077 daisypark.co.uk Day True 020 7788 9229 daytrue.com Desenio 020 3318 2047 desenio.co.uk DFS 0808 271 6297 dfs.co.uk Dibor 0800 408 0660 dibor.co.uk Dobbies 01315 616406 dobbies.com Dunelm 0345 165 6565 dunelm.com Ebay ebay.com Electra Bikes electra.trekbikes.com Etsy etsy.com Farrow & Ball 01202 876141 farrow-ball.com Flying Tiger flyingtiger.com
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128 | DECEMBER 2020
Folk Interiors 07970 096672 folkinteriors.co.uk French Connection Home 0333 400 3285 frenchconnection.com Furn-On 01207 505311 furn-on.com Galerie Home 01892 700730 galeriehome.co.uk Garden Trading 01993 845559 gardentrading.co.uk Gecko Home Decor 020 8427 4393 geckohomedecor.co.uk George Home 0800 952 0101 george.com Ginger Ray 0845 680 2975 gingerray.co.uk Gisela Graham 020 7708 4956 giselagraham.co.uk Google store.google.com Graham & Brown 0800 168 3795 grahambrown.com Graham and Green 01225 418200 grahamandgreen.co.uk Great Little Trading Company 0844 848 6000 gltc.co.uk Habitat 0344 499 4686 habitat.co.uk Hillarys 0800 916 6524 hillarys.co.uk Hobbycraft 0330 026 1400 hobbycraft.co.uk Holloways of Ludlow 020 7602 5757 hollowayskitchens.com Homary 008 620 3667 2353 homary.com/uk Home Barn 01628 474011 homebarnshop.co.uk Home Luxe Co homeluxeco.com Homebase 0345 077 8888 homebase.co.uk Homesense 01923 473561 homesense.com Iconic Lights 01268 681612 iconiclights.co.uk Ikea 020 3645 0000 ikea.co.uk Industville 020 7971 7871 industville.co.uk Jane Clayton & Company 01761 404505 janeclayton.co.uk JN Rusticus 01642 937447 jnrusticus.com Jo Malone 020 7720 0202 jomalone.co.uk John Lewis & Partners 0345 604 9049 johnlewis.com Klean Kanteen kleankanteen.co.uk Lakeland 01539 488100 lakeland.co.uk Laura Ashley 0333 200 8009 lauraashley.com Laura Nevill lauranevill.co.uk Leaf Envy leafenvy.co.uk Liberty 020 7734 1234 liberty.co.uk Lights4fun 01423 816040 lights4fun.co.uk Lish London lishlondon.com
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Little Greene 0845 880 5855 littlegreene.com Loaf 0345 468 0697 loaf.com Love Frankie 01803 866399 lovefrankie.com Maison du Monde 0845 612 1321 maisondumonde.com Mandarin Stone 01600 715444 mandarinstone.com Mano Mano manomano.co.uk Marie Curie shop.mariecurie.org.uk Marquis & Dawe 01925 767611 marquisanddawe.co.uk Matalan 0333 004 4444 matalan.co.uk Mint & May mintandmay.co.uk My Furniture 0800 092 1636 my-furniture.com National Trust Shop 0300 123 2025 shop.nationaltrust.org.uk Natural History Museum 020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk Nest 01142 433000 nest.co.uk Next Home 0333 777 8000 next.co.uk Notonthehighstreet.com 020 3318 5115 Oliver Bonas 020 8974 0110 oliverbonas.com Omlet 01295 500900 omlet.co.uk Original BTC 020 7351 2130 originalbtc.com Oxfam 0300 200 1292 oxfam.org.uk Paint & Paper Library 0845 880 5844 paintandpaperlibrary.com Paperchase 020 3322 4788 paperchase.co.uk Pavot Blue Interiors pavotblueinteriors.com Peg & Board pegandboard.com Peppermill Interiors 01543 375872 peppermillantiques.com Perch & Parrow 020 8629 1166 perchandparrow.com Pets at Home petsathome.com Porcelain Superstore 0845 257 0227 porcelainsuperstore.co.uk Poundland 0800 731 5622 poundland.co.uk Quick-Step 0844 811 8288 quick-step.co.uk Radianz Quartz radianz-quartz.com Ray-Stitch 020 7704 1060 raystitch.co.uk Red Candy 01212 247728 redcandy.co.uk Rockett St George 01444 253391 rockettstgeorge.co.uk Romo 01623 756699 romo.com Rose & Grey 01619 268763 roseandgrey.co.uk Rowen & Wren 01276 451077 rowenandwren.co.uk
M
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Q R
Shades of bronze and gold make for a chic festive scheme
S
Sainsbury’s 0800 328 1700 sainsburys.co.uk Sainsbury’s Home 0800 636262 sainsburyshome.co.uk Sass & Belle 020 7346 0117 sassandbelle.co.uk Second Nature sncollection.co.uk Selfridges 0800 123 400 selfridges.com Sofa Workshop 0808 256 3476 sofaworkshop.com Sofa.com 0345 400 2222 Sophie Allport 01778 560256 sophieallport.com Style Library 020 3457 5862 stylelibrary.com Sweetpea & Willow 0345 257 2627 sweetpeaandwillow.com Swoon 020 3319 6332 swooneditions.com Tesco 0800 505555 tesco.com The Contemporary Home tch.net
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WHERE TO BUY The House of Marley thehouseofmarley.co.uk The Little Crafty Bugs Company littlecraftybugs.co.uk The Log Basket 01594 562792 thelogbasket.co.uk The Metal Store themetalstore.co.uk The National Gallery 020 7747 2870 nationalgallery.co.uk The Old Flight House 01869 343441 theoldflighthouse.co.uk The Old Pill Factory 01993 701013 theoldpillfactory.com The Whisky Exchange 020 8838 9388 thewhiskyexchange.com The White Company 020 3758 9222 thewhitecompany.com Tile Mountain 01782 223822 tilemountain.co.uk TK Maxx 01923 473561 tkmaxx.com Tons of Tiles 01752 785623 tonsoftiles.co.uk Travis Perkins 01604 752424 travisperkins.co.uk Trouva 020 7193 6444 trouva.com UK Taps uktaps.co.uk Urban Outfitters 0845 330 1288 urbanoutfitters.co.uk Utility Design 0151 708 4192 utilitydesign.co.uk Very 0844 822 2321 very.co.uk Victoria Plum 0344 804 4848 victoriaplum.com Victorian Plumbing 0345 862 2878 victorianplumbing.co.uk Villa Nova 01623 756699 villanova.co.uk Viners viners.co.uk VV Rouleaux 020 7224 5179 vvrouleaux.com Waitrose & Partners 0800 188 884 waitrose.com Walls and Floors 01536 314730 wallsandfloors.co.uk Wayfair 0800 169 0423 wayfair.co.uk Whitby & Co whitbyandco.co.uk Wild & Wolf 01225 789909 wildandwolf.com Wilko 0800 032 9329 wilko.com
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161 MARSH WALL, LONDON E14 9AP To get in touch, our email format is firstname. lastname@futurenet.com 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 Style Editor Michela Colling Houses Editor Ruth Corbett Decorating Editor Nicky Phillips Senior Features Editor Stephanie Durrant Features Editor Holly Walsh Acting Features Editor Lisa Fazzani Food Editor Rose Fooks Head Of Art Operations Alison Walter Deputy Art Director Emma Jackson Designer Charlotte Holland Group Chief Sub-Editor/Production Editor Sarah Farley Head Of Subs Operations Maxine Clarke Hub Chief Sub-Editor Amy Hodge Senior Sub-Editor Linda Blakemore Senior Sub-Editor Chloe Hay General Enquiries 020 3148 7154 ADVERTISING Publisher and Head Of Homes Network Joanne O’Hara Advertisement Manager Sharon Goode 020 3148 7631 International/Luxury Account Manager Carol Bunce 020 3148 7620 London Sales Manager Ruth Roscorla 020 3148 7639 Inserts Canopy Media Sales and Management 0845 544 1857 Classified Senior Sales Executive Charlotte Beckett 020 3148 2511 Business Director Kim Milroy REGIONAL ADVERTISING Regional Sales Director Katrina Hutchison 0161 601 3720 Insert Sales Manager Katherine Brown 07464 544375 Regional Digital and Creative Media Director Lucy Gugas 0161 601 3734 MARKETING, PR & DIGITAL Head Of Marketing Sian Cupid 020 3148 6487 Deputy Head Of Marketing Laura Timms 020 3148 6239 SUBSCRIPTIONS Senior Subscriptions Manager Anita Baghapour 020 3047 1985 One-year full subscription rate (12 issues), including p&p: UK £28.99 Europe €31.99 USA $41.99 Rest of world £27.99. Credit-card hotline (UK) 0330 333 1113 Overseas enquiries +44 (0)330 333 1113 email help@magazinesdirect.com CIRCULATION Senior Circulation Executive Natasha Brewer 020 3787 9093 PRODUCTION Editorial Production Manager Nicola Tillman Deputy Editorial Production Manager Clare Willetts Art Production Designers Noel Allen, Sarah Llewellyn Advertisement Production Co-ordinator Szekwan Barrett Production Manager John Botten 020 3148 5431 Production Operations Director Richard Hill 020 3148 5424 Syndication Efi Mandrides 020 3148 5485 PUBLISHING Group Managing Director, Lifestyle Andrea Davies Managing Director, Home Interest Jason Orme Client Investment Director Sian Roberts 020 3148 6778 PRINTING Repro by Rhapsody Cover and Text printed by Walstead UK Limited BACK ISSUES Visit mags-uk.com DISTRIBUTION MarketForce (UK) Ltd 3rd Floor, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP (020 3787 9001). Ownable is a partnership between Future Publishing Ltd and Seen in Print Ltd
DECEMBER 2020 | 129
Love it
LOOK WHAT YOU STYLED
@salsjustlife’s gold confetti painted stair risers add the perfect touch of glam
@hat.trick.house’s shot has the whole team shopping for disco balls this holiday
We love how @cherribeehouse goes to town when dressing her fireplace
This monthwe’re loving
#SAHSTYLISTS
In need of some interiors inspo? Check out our Instagram hashtag – share your pics and tag @styleathomemag to join in
Candles are an essential accessory as far as we’re concerned @amysnorfolklife
Now that’s what we call a showstopper of a tree @ruralrefurb
Did someone mention gin @thehouseofwalton? Make ours a double!
What a perfect place to wake up on Christmas morning @acupfullofglitter
We always love a star dec, but especially at this time of year @thisisthegreenhouse
White orchids make such an elegant table centrepiece at @no.5.thesmyths place
130 | DECEMBER 2020
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