Ghhgfgdgf

ENGLISH HOME The

Ba

th ro

e t a d om up

s

Celebrating the essence of English style February 2020 | Issue 180 | £4.50 | UK Edition

FIND YOUR STYLE Classic, romantic, bohemian or contemporary

DESIGN FOCUS

•Sitting room inspiration •Bathroom style •New hues, fresh buys

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS

Nina Campbell on John Fowler Matthew Fort at home

CHARACTER & COLOUR Regency townhouse, beamed cottage, Queen Anne manor

- Award winning orangeries & Garden rooms -

ORANGERIES

|

GARDEN ROOMS

|

C O N S E R VAT O R I E S

|

OAk BuIlDINGS

Call for our new brochure or book a home design consultation 01278 764444 davidsalisbury.com

CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2020

46 36

Beautiful Buys 14 HOME COMFORTS New buys in fresh tones to inject

subtle updates for the season to come.

20 BACK TO EARTH Brown & taupe tones for interiors.

22 FRESHLY MINTED Design details in a verdant hue.

English Homes 36 RESPLENDENT BEAUTY A Chelsea mews house is

transformed into a sophisticated retreat.

46 ECLECTIC PANACHE An elegant townhouse in Bath

is home to a diverse collection of art and heirlooms.

54 ANCIENT HEART The transformation of a Grade II

listed Sussex cottage allows antiques to shine.

62 SETTING THE SCENE A gracious Queen Anne

62

country house in Kent is sympathetically enhanced.

72 MY ENGLISH HOME Food writer and television

judge Matthew Fort on what home means to him.  THE ENGLISH HOME 5

Style inspiration 75 TROPICAL BEAUTY Rainforest allure.

76 FIND YOUR STYLE TRIBE Hone your decorative

aesthetic with inspiration from like-minded talents.

92 DESIGNING AN INVITING SITTING ROOM Inspiring in

insights from interior designer Emma Sims-Hilditch.

96 RESTORATION ELEGANCE Interior designer Janie

Money on redecorating rooms at Weston Park.

102 PERFECT SYNERGY How to achieve a beautiful

bathroom that harnesses the latest technology.

76

Quintessentially 111 SMART SOLUTIONS Neat and tidy utility style.

112 FEBRUARY IN THE MOMENT Connect with the

season and relish time at home.

118 HAND-CRAFTED FOR THE GARDEN Celebrate

102

traditional English crafts created for the outdoors.

130 MY DESIGN HERO Interior designer Nina Campbell

on ‘the prince of decorators’ John Fowler.

Regulars 8

A LETTER FROM HOME A welcome from our

Editor-in-Chief.

25 NOTEBOOK Our monthly digest of notable people,

places and pursuits, plus important diary dates.

34 THE LONDON EDIT Interiors news from the capital.

35 SUBSCRIBE Treat yourself or a loved one to a

subscription to The English Home.

92 GLISH ENG H ME RETREAT INDOORS HOM TIVE BRIT

The

Au

C b

CREA

ng Great

Celebrati

ES DREAM HOMouse

British bran

-gro

ds & home

o our fi e far house

h ss

tum

f E

m n at ho

assi gra ge s art i toria house

ENDURING POWER OF PATTERN Icon c Br t sh fabrics reigniting imag nations today

ld Elegant townh le new bu Georg an-sty ation renov Cottage

H

e

sh s y r

N EDIT

Fabric & Wallpaper SPECIAL

ee e e f E

per collection

s

FIRES & FIREPLACES o a poi ts to suit your property

E DECORATIV LIGHTING for Jewel ery inter ors

TOWNHOUSE ELEGANCE oft y o te porary oo s for ity hi

with At home DON MONTY

DOWNTON DARLING Actress Kate on her interi Ph llips ors style

IN EX ERT HANDS VE LOegg, URof duck aqua & te LO CO less a lure The time Redecoration, restoration & reclamat on spec alists

6 THE ENGLISH HOME

ticated spice to es paprika, nutm eg

& turmeric

ye

125 COMING NEXT MONTH An insight into the delights

to come in our March edition.

ENJOY SINGLE ISSUES BY POST To make life easier, you can now buy single editions or back issues of The English Home online and have them posted directly to your home address.

To order your copy, please visit

chelseamagazines.com/shop

Get designing... create your own rug online at:

www.alternativeflooring.com

t: 01264 335111

A letter from home Which is your style tribe? Turn to page 76 to find out.

F

At The English Home, we love nothing more than meeting and speaking to talented specialists about their work in their particular fields.

This issue, I had the pleasure of visiting interior designer Emma Sims-Hilditch at her Wiltshire-based studio to talk about conceiving room schemes for clients, and this resulted in the feature on sitting room design on page 92.

Meanwhile, Samantha, our Executive Editor, visited the esteemed and charming food writer Matthew Fort in his own Cotswolds kitchen to talk about his home passions and his gourmet inspirations, leading to the Q&A on page 72.

Kate Freud, our Editor-at-Large, met interior designer Janie Money of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler to glean insights into the story of the redecoration of key rooms at important historic house Weston Park on page 96.

8 THE ENGLISH HOME

With warmest wishes,

Kerryn Harper-Cuss, Editor-in-Chief Follow us on Twitter @englishhometeam Pinterest at pinterest.com/theenglishhome Facebook at facebook.com@theenglishhome Instagram at instagram.com@englishhomemag

PORTRAIT RACHAEL SMITH

BEHIND THE SCENES...

ebruary is a time for looking ahead to brighter days and taking opportunity of these still dark evenings to think about future projects for the home and garden in the year to come. Maybe you are planning to move and need to give rooms a little refreshment to make them more enticing, or perhaps you are considering a more significant redecoration to enhance your own enjoyment of your home?

When considering where to start, it makes sense to follow the sage advice of the professionals, who, rather than beginning with a particular fabric swatch or paint hue, will first define the desired mood and any practical problems that need overcoming. They also focus on drawing out a client’s particular design aesthetic. I find it can be incredibly useful to think about defining your personal taste, not item by item, but in a way that encapsulates the overarching style and design that makes you feel most happy and ‘at home’, to help rule out one-off pieces which, whilst lovely, might compromise the desired end result.

You will already know if you are a maximialist or a minimalist, or whether you lean towards soft, subdued colours or a more saturated colour palette. Taking time to hone preferences further can pay great dividends and this is where our feature on style tribes (page 76) aims to inspire. In it, we look at four very different design aesthetics (not a definitive list by any means but a good start!) and the key names, fabric prints, colours, furniture shapes and accessories that influence each look. I hope you find it an interesting and inspiring way to approach your decoration plans this year.

Natural, sustainable & ethical, our beautiful timber windows and doors are the logical choice.

Constructed from engineered timber slow grown in cold climates, their strength, stability and beauty are guaranteed.

With a

20% discount off all windows and doors in our Winter Sale, explore the range in over 40 showrooms nationwide.

AMERSHAM BIRMINGHAM (HARBORNE) BLANDFORD BOURNEMOUTH BRISTOL (CLIFTON) BURY ST EDMUNDS CATERHAM

CARDIFF CARMARTHEN CHANNEL ISLANDS CHELTENHAM CIRENCESTER COLCHESTER DENBIGH

DULWICH ESHER GUILDFORD HARROGATE HARTLEY WINTNEY HEATHFIELD HENLEY-ON-THAMES

HEREFORD HIGHGATE HONITON HORNDEAN HORSHAM INGATESTONE KNUTSFORD

LEAMINGTON SPA LINCOLN MORETON-IN-MARSH OLNEY OXFORD RIPLEY SALISBURY

SHEFFIELD ST ALBANS TAVISTOCK TUNBRIDGE WELLS WIMBLEDON WINCHESTER WOODBRIDGE

timberwindows.com/eh ‘2019 National Timber Window & Door Supplier of the Year’

T: 0800 030 2000

ENGLISH HOME The

Ba

h ro o

m upd

ts

Celebrating the e ence of Engli h tyle February 2020 | Issue 180 | £4 50 | UK Edition

FIND YOUR STYLE Classic, romantic, bohemian or contemporary

CONTACT US Editorial 0333 014 3215 The English Home, Cumberland House, Oriel Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1BB Email theenglishhome@chelseamagazines.com Website theenglishhome.co.uk Advertising/Publishing 020 7349 3700 The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Email info@chelseamagazines.com

DESIGN FOCUS

•Sitting room inspiration •Bathroom style •New hues, fresh buys

CHARACTER & COLOUR

Regency townhouse, beamed cottage, Queen Anne manor

EDITORIAL

COVER PHOTOGRAPH: © JAMES MCDONALD ILLUSTRATION: © ZONDA/SHUTTERSTOCK

Editor-in-Chief Kerryn Harper-Cuss Executive Editor Samantha Scott-Jeffries Managing Editor Sarah Feeley Art Editor Claire Hicks Contributing Art Editors Matt Griffiths, Rebecca Stead Sub Editor Lea Tacey Decorating Editor Katy Mclean Features Editor Eve Middleton Homes & Lifestyle Editor Clair Wayman Editor-at-Large Kate Freud

ADVERTISING

Sales Director Cameron Hay 020 7349 3712; cameron.hay@chelseamagazines.com Head of Market Freddy Halliday 020 7349 3744; freddy.halliday@chelseamagazines.com Advertisement Manager William Bernard 020 7349 3749; william.bernard@chelseamagazines.com Advertisement Account Executive Madeleine Burgess 020 7349 3711; madeleine.burgess@chelseamagazines.com Advertisement Sales Executive Jasmin Nissa Shaw 020 7349 3732; jasmin.shaw@chelseamagazines.com Advertising Production 01202 472781; allpointsmedia.co.uk

PUBLISHING

Chairman Paul Dobson Chief Operating Officer Kevin Petley Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin Director of Media James Dobson Publisher Caroline Scott Circulation Manager Daniel Webb EA to Chairman Sarah Porter

CHELSEA CREATE

Managing Director Steve Ross Partnerships Director Lyndal Beeton

ONLINE

Digital Product Manager Ben Iskander Email & Digital Creative Manager Jenny Choo

PRODUCTION

Reprographics Manager Neil Puttnam Printing William Gibbons Ltd

NEXT ISSUE ON SALE 5 FEBRUARY 2020 THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 1468-0238 (PRINT) THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 2397-7086 (ONLINE)

Beautiful flooring, designed to last Over 100 designs | Expert advice | 20,000m 2 of stock | Express delivery SHOWROOM 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG 020 8871 9771

w w w.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES 01858 438 854

SUBSCRIPTION OFFICE The English Home Tower House, Lathkill Street Market Harborough Leicestershire LE16 9EF Tel 01858 438 854 Email theenglishhome@ subscription.co.uk (UK and Rest of World)

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS

Nina Campbell on John Fowler Matthew Fort at home

SUBSCRIPTION RATES UK £72 (12 issues) Overseas £90 (12 issues) NEWS DISTRIBUTION Seymour Distribution Ltd 2 East Poultry Avenue London EC1A 9PT Tel 020 7429 3667

CATCHPOLE & RYE KENT ENGLAND

EXCLUSIVE

LUXURY

BATHROOMS

L O N D O N • T U N B R I D G E W ELL S • A S H F O R D

T. 020 7351 0940

www.catchpoleandrye.com

The Niederbronn - Polished Exterior

ALBION BATH COM PANY

For further inspiration on creating a quintessentially English home, visit our website theenglishhome.co.uk

ENGLISH HOME Th

C b

h ss

Au

tum

f E

m n at ho

e

sh s y

RETREAT INDOORS o our fi e far house

assi gra ge s art i toria house

ENDURING POWER OF PATTERN Iconic Br tish fabrics re gniting imaginat ons today FIRES & FIREPLACES o a poi ts to suit your property TOWNHOUSE ELEGANCE oft y o te porary oo s for ity hi

IN EXPERT HANDS

Apollo bath in burnished bronze - 2 sizes manufactured

Redecorat on, restorat on & reclamation specialists

ENGLISH HOME e

RETREAT INDOORS

IN EXPERT HANDS

Including...

Room-by-room decorating advice Interviews with top interior designers Behind-the-scenes insights Invaluable buyers’ guides

What’s unique about an Albion Bath?

Our special material, Iso-Enamel, keeps your bath hotter for longer, and is only a third of the weight of a cast iron bath.

See our range of baths from 1200mm to 2200mm long.

Request your brochure of our bath tubs, taps and bathroom furniture.

Catch up when out and about at

theenglishhome.co.uk

01255 831605 albionbathco.com

FOLLOW US ON...

HAND MADE IN ENGLAND

Twitter @englishhometeam Pinterest at pinterest.com/theenglishhome Facebook at facebook.com@theenglishhome Instagram at instagram.com@englishhomemag

CHRISTOPHER PETERS

INSPIRATIONAL KITCHENS & INTERIORS

www.christopherpeters.com T: 01926 832511

HOM Fresh tones and a light feel combine to create a seasonal shift in the home this month

Reading corner Creating a relaxing spot with cushions, side table and a reading light provides the perfect opportunity for enjoying the season’s changes.

Cushion covers (from left): Palmyra, £60; Chyangra (Cheetah), £100; Anar, Blue, £60; Fontana side table (Recycled Elm), £675; Grisewood lamp and shade in Paprika and Loganberry, £175 each, Oka

14 THE ENGLISH HOME

mforts

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Deftly woven Influenced by Phulkhari embroideries from India, the jacquard weave of this chic dual-toned pattern makes it ideal for smart upholstery and window treatments.

Chair, Lotus Weave, Campari, £210 a metre, Guy Goodfellow Shine a light As part of a new collection to celebrate 30 years of Beaumont & Fletcher, the design of this elegant wall light draws on neo-classical style for a timeless look.

Adam wall light, £1,465, Beaumont & Fletcher Green gauge The verdant tones of Emma Bridgewater’s new botanical Hawthorn and Green Toast patterns make for a lovely, colourful addition to the breakfast table.

Hawthorn small tureen, £39.95; Organic & Green 8½-inch plate, £17.95; Polka Dot teacup and saucer, £34.95; French bowl, £19.95, all Emma Bridgewater



CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Playful pigment This delightful pink hue is one of seven colours recently added to the Classic range of Earthborn’s environmentally-friendly breathable paints.

Wall, Delilah, £43 for 2.5l, Earthborn Paints Sumptuous velvet Used here as a counterpoint to pinks, greens and greys, this delicious teal is amongst 18 new Beauchamp Velvet shades by James Hare.

Chair, Beauchamp Velvet, Fontainebleau, £50 a metre; curtains, Fitzrovia, Pink/Multi, £120 a metre; throw in Charleston, Blue, £75 a metre, all James Hare Delicate detail The cream and gold pattern and crenellated edges of these pretty tables make them a pleasing addition to many settings.

Blossom hand-painted metal table, Cream, £295; Blossom side table, Cream, £125, all Sophie Conran Diffusion range Brookmans, the newly launched sister brand to Smallbone of Devizes offers affordable luxury in the form of kitchens and freestanding furniture that can be delivered and installed in under six weeks from design confirmation.

K1 Pantry, from £15,000, Brookmans by Smallbone



16 THE ENGLISH HOME

Smart shades that simplify your life.

PowerView® Motorisation from Luxaflex® Perfect lighting, energy efficiency, everyday convenience - it’s all delivered automatically with PowerView® Motorisation. Just program PowerView® to move your window coverings to the exact position you want and then control and schedule them using the intuitive PowerView® App on your smartphone or tablet.

Find out more at luxaflex.co.uk

The Art of Window Styling

FEATURE EVE MIDDLETON PHOTOGRAPHS P16 (GUY GOODFELLOW) © ASTRID TEMPLIER; P18 (STUDIO DUGGAN) © MARIELL LIND HANSEN

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE Printed porcelain These stoneware slabs are printed using a digital ink-jet technique, offering the look of wallpaper with the durability of porcelain.

Peacock Decor Slabs (120cm x 240cm x 6mm), £1,316 a square metre, Devon & Devon Historical form The romantic history of Transylvania forms the inspiration for The Transylvanian Manor collection, including this classical royal design wallpaper.

Fairyland wallpaper, £175 for three rolls (52 x 300cm); The Manor Cushion, £109, both Mind the Gap New additions Interior design firm Studio Duggan has created Trove, a range of homeware that encapsulates a nomadic yet enduring look.

Elsie headboard covered in Jungle, Faded on Oyster by Bennison, £1,228; Silk mini cushion, £45; Lampe à Poser Globo, £585; Silk oblong cushion, £150; square cushion, Faded on Oyster, £200; 100 per cent linen throw, £200, all Trove by Studio Duggan n

18 THE ENGLISH HOME

100% Bespoke kitchen & household furniture, sympathetically designed to work with your home’s architecture and handmade to last a lifetime.

24A West Street, Ashburton, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ13 7DU

Tel: 01364 653613 www.barnesofashburton.co.uk

Ellesmere hand-knotted jute rug, £1,750, Oka Hetty Hare table lamp, £135, Graham & Green

Malawai cane 80cm mirror, £335, The Interior Spy

BACK TO EARTH

Brown and taupe tones are having an interior design renaissance.

Not since the 1970s have rustic textures and colours such as London Brown been at the centre of a design scheme. From cabinetry to walls, fabrics and passementerie, earth hues can look as tailored or as relaxed as desired. Just weave in some tactile textures by way of accessories and furniture.

Mock croc padded photo frame, £65, India Jane

Fine leather piping, perfect for highlighting upholstery, £19 a metre, Ian Sanderson

Natural jute knot rope doorstop, £18, Gisela Graham Papyrus Desert Sand fabric, £98 a metre, Lewis & Wood

Hand-printed Majolica wallpaper in Gaucho, £24 a metre, Rapture & Wright at Telescope Style 20 THE ENGLISH HOME

Pascoe rattan armchair, £450, India Jane

FEATURE CHARIS WHITE

London Brown wall paint, £49.50 for 2.5l Emulsion, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint

British Grown Bare Root English Roses The environmentally friendly way to plant roses this winter for beautiful summer blooms.

Request a FREE ‘Handbook of Roses’ and browse over 700 roses online at www.davidaustinroses.co.uk

Camellia Chinoiserie Jade Green wallpaper mural, from £40, V&A collection at Surface View

Haines Manalapan Emerald armchair, £1,395, Jonathan Adler

Aurora Green Glass wall mirror, £95, Oliver Bonas

Hand-painted Bamboo Songbird tea caddy lamp (T3-032SB) (shade not included), £906, Besselink & Jones

FRESHLY MINTED

Mint is as sweet as it is calm. It sits elegantly in a tone-on-tone decorating scheme as well as combining effortlessly with pale blues and even with the occasional highlight of crimson. From grand country houses to streamlined city abodes, it is the perfect hue for injecting interiors with a fresh, airy spring mood.

Jasper Peony Green Glaze A4 document file, £39, Joanna Wood

London glazed wall cupboard in Trinity Blue, from £1,330, deVOL

Holland fixed cover small sofa (W172cm) in Aqua velvet, £3,100, Darlings of Chelsea

British Standard recycled glass in Malachite Green, £7, Heal’s 22 THE ENGLISH HOME

FEATURE CHARIS WHITE PHOTOGRAPH (SURFACE VIEW) © OLIVER PERROTT

Hand-printed Alok cushion with wavy olive trim, £180, Penny Morrison

Design Centre - Chelsea Harbour samuel-heath.com Made in England

THE ENGLISH HOME

NOTEBOOK

Our monthly digest of inside information on people, places and pursuits

PURSUITS The creative art of embroidery Decorating textiles with needle and thread is believed to date back to ancient times. The oldest surviving example of British embroidery is the stole of St Cuthbert, preserved in Durham Cathedral, from the 10th century. Several hundred years later, embroidery has moved away from the heraldic and ecclesiastical to become a craft form, using techniques passed down from one generation to the next.

With industrialisation, machines can recreate the look of embroidery, but the skill has not been lost. Today, with

growing consumer desire for handmade, bespoke items, activities like embroidery are increasingly sought-after.

As no previous needlework experience is needed, it is the perfect choice for those seeking a creative endeavour.

“Start with an easy kit from a company or tutor whose designs you love,” advises Phillipa Turnbull who, with her daughter Laura, runs The Crewel Work Company, which sells kits, offers lessons and organises embroidery retreats.

Other places to learn include The Royal School of Needlework,

Sara Dennis Embroidery, and Ornamental Embroidery, which specialises in historic hand techniques.

Turnbull also credits embroidery’s resurgence to its calming effect and creative qualities.“The repetitive action and the textures are enough to settle an anxious mind and busy hands,” she says.

“Then there is the immense satisfaction of mastering a technique and completing something.” crewelwork.com; royal-needlework.org. uk; ornamentalembroidery.com; saradennisembroidery.co.uk  THE ENGLISH HOME 25

PURSUITS

Diary – events worth noting DESIGNER NOTES Be inspired by the bold

colours, patterns and materials on display at the Fashion and Textile Museum’s exhibition Out of the Blue: Fifty Years Of Designers Guild, which celebrates the works of the influential design company that Tricia Guild (left) founded in 1970.

14 February to 14 June; ftmlondon.org

ANCIENT WONDERS Discover the legend of

Tutankhamun and more than 150 priceless artefacts found intact in his royal tomb, on show at the Saatchi Gallery in London.

Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh offers the final chance to admire these ancient objects before they make their return to Egypt.

Until 3 May; tutankhamun-london.com BAROQUE GLORIES The first ever art

exhibition to focus on baroque culture in Britain will open on 5 February at Tate Britain. British Baroque: Power and Illusion includes an impressive collection of works from this visually rich era, dating from 1660 to 1714, many of which have not been shown in public before.

From 5 February to 19 April; tate.org.uk SPECIALIST INFORMATION

Homeowners wanting to renovate, maintain or learn more about their listed property can meet experts in their field at The Listed Property Show at Olympia in London. Chat to independent conservation officers, seek advice from architects and builders, and take part the programme of interactive talks to address any queries about owning one of these special buildings.

8–9 February; lpoc.co.uk

A Good Read Henbury: An Extraordinary House

by Jeremy Musson (Pimpernel Press, £50)

Nestled in the Cheshire countryside is a Palladianstyle masterpiece – surprisingly built in the 1980s, and not the grand sixteenth-century house that it appears to be. This is Henbury Hall and the fascinating tale of its inception, construction and completion is told by architectural historian Jeremy Musson in this book. With stunning photographs, interviews with the professionals and artisans involved in the design process, and a foreword by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, this is a celebration of, and a tribute to, the inspiring vision of the man who created one of England’s most beautiful houses, businessman Sebastian de Ferranti, who sadly passed away in 2015.  26 THE ENGLISH HOME

WINTER SALE

P R I C E M AT C H G U A R A N T E E D | I N T E R E S T F R E E C R E D I T | B I G G E S T S E L E C T I O N O N V I S P R I N G B E D S

andsotobed.co.uk | 0808 144 4343 Bridport ︱ Bristol ︱ Bury St Edmunds ︱ Chelmsford ︱ Cheltenham ︱ Glasgow ︱ Handcross ︱ Harrogate ︱ Hartley Wintney ︱ London, Chelsea London, Finchley Road ︱ London, Richmond ︱ London, West End ︱ Manchester ︱ Nottingham ︱ Oxford ︱ Tunbridge Wells ︱ Weybridge

PEOPLE

Nina Marika Tarnowski & Paul Tarnowski

Woodchip & Magnolia founders After 17 years of designing wallpaper for a household brand, Nina Marika Tarnowski had a desire to do things differently, and so, with her husband Paul, launched their business Woodchip & Magnolia from their kitchen table in Lancashire.

Now, four years later, the company has grown from printing wallpaper in the couple’s garage to producing a portfolio that includes celebrity collaborations, a fabric collection and furniture.

“We never have to look far for inspiration,” says Nina, who incorporates her surroundings in her creations, which range from dramatic botanical prints to daintier geometric patterns.

The company’s newly launched wall mural Number 18 is a more personal story – a still-life painting by her great-grandfather’s brother from the year he went to serve in the First World War. On the design, Nina says: “A key trend for 2020 is about finding soothing familiarity in bygone eras, so [this year] expect inspiration from the past, re-imagined for uncertain times.” woodchipandmagnolia.co.uk

Josiah Spode

A pioneer of English pottery Imagine a quintessential country kitchen, and no doubt it features a dresser filled with blue and white china. Spode is perhaps the most iconic of this English homeware, and its founder, Josiah Spode, an innovator in pottery manufacturing.

This year, Spode is celebrating its 250th anniversary since it was founded in 1770.

Born in Stoke-on-Trent in 1733, Josiah Spode became a potter’s apprentice at the age of 16. With the abundance of coal and clay in the soil of the Staffordshire area in which he worked, known as The Potteries, a burgeoning ceramics industry was taking shape.

After exposure to some of the era’s most 28 THE ENGLISH HOME

prominent potters, Josiah established his own factory in his hometown in 1770. Noticing the popularity of Chinese blue-and-white ware, he focused his energy on developing England’s first commercially viable method of producing printed earthenware. He perfected the technique of blue underglaze printing, and found a formula to create fine bone china; both groundbreaking developments for the pottery manufacturing industry.

Josiah died in 1797, and his son – also named Josiah, and equally entrepreneurial – continued the legacy of producing Spode’s distinctive china, revered around the world to this day.

To celebrate the brand’s 250th anniversary, a new limited-edition collection, Black Italian, will be launched later this year, as well as an exclusive collaboration with The Cambridge Satchel Company. spode.co.uk 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO FIND YOUR NEAREST STOCKIST PLEASE VISIT WWW.TETRAD.CO.UK

PLACES

Home Barn Described as ‘The New Curiosity Shop’, Home Barn is a treasure trove of vintage furniture and one-of-a-kind homeware.

Located in a seventeenth-century tithe barn in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, the emporium was founded by sisters-in-law Sarah and Sally Wilkie, who had earned a reputation for sourcing antique and pre-loved items for modern homes, and who both wanted a creative outlet whilst raising their families.

“There’s nothing more exciting than buying a piece, where we learn the history of it and where it’s been before landing with us,” says Sarah. “That’s a big part of what led us to start Home Barn together.”

Rustic reclaimed wooden tables, an array of artwork and coloured glassware are just some of the rare and unusual finds in this destination shop. homebarnshop.co.uk

Monkey Island Estate Situated on a private island on the River Thames, accessed from the Berkshire village of Bray, this exotic-sounding hotel by the YTL hospitality group offers luxury accommodation in a picturesque setting.

Once an attachment to Merton Priory in the twelfth century, the island was known as Monks Eyot (island), a possible explanation for its modern name. In 1723 it became the angling idyll of the 3rd Duke of Marlborough, who built the magnificent 30 THE ENGLISH HOME

Palladian Fishing Temple and octagonal Pavilion that have now been restored.

Encompassing past and present, the beautifully appointed rooms and suites offer views of the river and the grounds, where guests can take relaxing strolls.

Dining options include locally sourced fare from the Brasserie, or foodies can delight in the gourmet restaurants nearby, for which Bray has become famous. monkeyislandestate.co.uk 

LA CENERENTOLA

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

RO S S I N I

BRITTEN

M A N O N L E S CAU T

DA N C E @T H E G R A N G E

PUCCINI

M Y FA I R L A DY LERNER & LOEWE

THE MONSTER IN THE MAZE D OV E

‘the star of the Summer’s country house offerings’ Music OMH

5 J U N E - 1 9 J U LY 2 0 2 0 +44 (0) 1962 791020 www.thegrangefestival.co.uk

PLACES

FEATURE JANINE JORGENSEN PHOTOGRAPHS P25 © MRS_MR_MARCHA/SHUTTERSTOCK. P26 (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) © DESIGNERS GUILD; SIR GODFREY KNELLER, JOHN CHURCHILL, 1ST DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH C.1706 NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY; © LISTED PROPERTY SHOW; (EGYPT) © LABORATORIOROSSO, VITERBO, ITALY; (BOOK) © CALLY STOCKDALE. P28 (PORTRAIT) © THE PICTURE ART COLLECTION/ALAMY. P30 (BELOW) © CHAMPLIMAUD. P32 (ALL) © NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES; (CEILING & DOORWAY) © LAYTON THOMPSON; (REST) © JAMES DOBSON.

Croome

32 THE ENGLISH HOME

There is more than meets the eye at the historic estate of Croome in Worcestershire.

After unexpectedly inheriting the property in 1751, the 6th Earl of Coventry, George William, who was known as a trend-setter of his time, set about transforming the Jacobean house and parkland.

Enlisting the assistance of designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, the Earl was able to turn Croome Court into a notable example of Neo-Palladian architecture; its grounds recreated as a natural-looking landscape with follies and temples and planted with a vast collection of species from across the globe.

Although it was Brown’s first commission, it is considered one of his finest, and visitors to the estate, now managed by the National Trust, can explore the magnificent parkland and gardens, which still show evidence of the estate’s eighteenth-century splendour.

Croome’s past is not all about grand designs, however. During the Second World War, and the Cold War years that followed, a section of the park was one of Britain’s top-secret places, where the RAF Defford military airfield tested airborne radar.

It was also during this time that the Croome Estate Trust sold the Court, and throughout the twentieth century the house had a chequered existence as a school, headquarters for the Hare Krishna movement, apartments, conference facility, hotel, and then, once again a family home, which fell into disrepair. Now a conservation project, the Grade I listed building is best viewed on a tour to discover its significant historical features, such as the Robert Adam fireplaces and the frieze in the Long Gallery, which are all being restored to their former glory. nationaltrust.org.uk

THE ENGLISH HOME

THE LONDON EDIT Editor-at-large Kate Freud looks at three businesses that provide inspiration for designers and architects when sourcing furniture, antiques and fabric trimmings THE ODD CHAIR COMPANY

JAMB

W

34 THE ENGLISH HOME

SAMUEL & SONS

T

o set foot inside Samuel & Sons’ Chelsea Harbour showroom is to step into the world of a prestigious company rich in history. The brand, famed for

creating exquisite trimmings, tassels, borders, braids, gimp and fringes, has garnered a reputation amongst interior designers and architects across the globe, not only for the variety of its collections, but also for its bespoke creations.

The company was founded in 1945 in New York by the Cohen family and to this day Sam Cohen, along with his sons Michael, Hymie and Joseph, take great pride in creating original designs to reflect both traditional and modern aesthetics.

New for 2020, is the Antoinette collection, a stunning range of embroidered floral linen borders.

The intricately rendered botanical patterns that feature are reminiscent of eighteenth-century French embroidery, with colourful garlands of flowers and leaves like those that embellished regal apparel during Louis XV’s reign. It is this elevated attention to detail that sets Samuel & Sons apart. samuelandsons.com n

PHOTOGRAPH (THE ODD CHAIR COOMPANY, LENNOX WING CHAIR) © PETER MARSHALL

I

t has always been a family affair at the brilliantly named The Odd Chair Company, where brother and sister duo James and Victoria Cook continue to head up the family-run business, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2019.

Specialising in creating beautiful handmade furniture, the company now boasts over 300 designs, all made on the family farm in Lancashire by a team of dedicated craftsmen and women with more than 100 years’ experience between them.

Though the farm feels worlds apart from the company’s glamorous Pimlico Road showroom, which opened in 2006, the brand’s ethos runs to its core. James and Victoria are all about bringing ‘true comfort’ and beautiful finishes to their furniture, from sofas and chairs to benches, stools and beds.

And for 2020, The Odd Chair Company will even handmake the mattress to go with each bed. theoddchaircompany.com

hen Will Fisher met his wife, Charlotte Freemantle, in New York, he persuaded her to move back to London with him and work on his newly founded company, Jamb. The year was 2003, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Today, Jamb has built a reputation for being a dedicated curator of the ‘country house’ aesthetic and, as a result, the world’s leading architects and designers come to the brand for the finest antique and reproduction fireplaces, fire grates, and beautiful reproduction lighting.

With a showroom on London’s Pimlico Road, and a vast 24,000-square-foot space in South London (which was a former tank factory) where its stone and marble workshops are now housed (along with 200 antique fireplaces), the business continues to go from strength to strength.

Jamb draws on the designs and aesthetics of previous centuries and makes them relevant and available for interiors now. jamb.co.uk

For everyone who loves beautiful homes

S I L ENG E HOREM AT INDO

T he

ME

T he

g Celebratin

t

r 2019 | I

Novembe

RET

ouse e far h o our fi

i ge s art assi gra

N PATTER WER OF iting O P G n IN ENDUR rics reig ritish fab Iconic B ons today ti imagina

NGLISH OME NEW Y

Celebrati December 20

FESTIVE WEL

Celebratin

January 2020

Beautiful homes dressed with seas

EMBRACING EVERY MOMENT

BEST FA

DESIGN F A NEW OR DECADE Sty

Inspiring ways to create memorable celebrations

le, inno sustaina vation, bility, te ch

CHRISTMAS AT HIGHCLERE

EAR HO

BRICS, W ALLPAPE

RS, FUR

g the essen ce of Engl ish style | UK

| Issue 17 9 | £4.50

NITURE

Red

ation sp

& MORE

Enhance y life at ho our me

SAVE UP

Thoughtful presents Twinkling table settings

& reclam

Edition

NOURS

ATTENTION TO DETAILS

ration n, resto ecoratio

2020 W INNE REVEALE RS D

FEEL-GO O FACTOR D

Preparations at the real Downton Abbey

HAN T R E P X IN E

Interi awardosr

cal to

Delicious recipes and ways to make gu

ec

GO FOR

GLA

TO

MOUR Modern lu art deco xe with echoes

CEL BR ATE IN S Chic ent ertaining T YLE ideas to mark th e mome

24%

nt

SUBSCRIBE to The English Home and receive

12 issues from only £40.95 As a new subscriber you will receive an Ashleigh & Burwood Artistry Collection home fragrance set absolutely FREE*†.

These indulgent home fragrance sets contain a scented candle in an elegant light-refracting fluted glass votive, a heartshaped scented cushion and a reed diffuser to add beautiful fragrance to the home.

Every issue brings Britain’s prettiest homes to life through glorious photography and captivating stories. Discover elegant looks for your own ome with decorating insights and valuable dvice from leading interior designers.

pecial benefits for The English Home ubscribers:

SAVE up to 24% when you subscribe  FREE postage to your home  Indulgent FREE welcome gift worth £20*

* Gift offer applies t † Fragrance to be chosen by Ashleigh & Burwood

“The English Home is full of beautifully illustrated features which offer a real insight into how to recreate traditional English style.”

Joanna Wood, Leading Interior Designer

ORDER TODAY

www.chelseamagazines.com/CENHP202 +44 (0)1858 438889 and quote CENHP202 NB: Prices and discounts based on the UK cover price of £4.50. Free gift is subject to availability and we reserve the right to exchange without notice.

If for any reason you’re not happy with your subscription, you may cancel within 28 days of placing your order.

Respl B A Chelsea mews house is transformed into a sophisticated retreat, glowing with bold colour and eye-catching fabrics FEATURE & STYLING JUDITH WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES MCDONALD

The sitting room walls are battened in Lord Jim Velvet by Voghi from Turnell & Gigon. Two of the armchairs are covered in Aurora on Nivelles Oyster in Green from Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam. The Fontainebleau chimneypiece from Chesneys creates a focal point. Artwork includes a portrait by Vicente Puig, an abstract

by John Goodison and a figurative painting by Georges Joubin.

THE ENGLISH HOME 37

O

nly a talented interior decorator such as Victoria Cator would have the verve to batten her sitting room walls in emeraldgreen velvet and declare it the perfect device for enlivening a city home. “I wanted the look to be sultry and chic,” Victoria says. “But also to hint at a country house mood.” Her pretty Edwardian mews property, fronted by a cobbled street, appears modestly proportioned from the exterior, but step over the threshold and it is a Tardis within. “The hall is deceptively wide,” she says. “On my first visit I could see the house had huge potential.”

Yet, achieving the perfect interior takes time.

Between purchasing the property in January 2015 and moving into it in November 2018, Victoria had to secure planning permission and then had the property gutted. She also had the basement dug out, added a new top floor with mansard roof and integrated the adjacent ground-floor garage into a dining room and new kitchen. As Victoria was making a fresh start, after moving from Norfolk back to London, she also needed to accommodate her sons – Christian, 23, and  ABOVE Victoria believes “stairs and halls are always underrated”, so she has invested in a new staircase with a black lacquered handrail and wrought-iron spindles from Rose Uniacke. Fusing practicality and style, she has teamed untreated Floors of Stone limestone with a sisal runner from Tim Page Carpets.

38 THE ENGLISH HOME

Antique chairs, with seats upholstered in Brittany Superglazed Linen in Black from Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam, with a pair of mahogany chairs featuring brass inlay.

The marble statue is from Guinevere Antiques.

THE ENGLISH HOME 39

‘Never be shy to go bigger on scale. Overscaling doesn’t shrink a room; it provides gravitas’ Sebastian, 20. “It’s a home for the boys – the last hurrah before they leave,” she says. The newly extended house now boasts five bedrooms and five bathrooms, plus a basement media room.

The chance to remodel from scratch has, says Victoria, afforded her certain luxuries. “We replumbed, rewired and installed a Nest eco heating system, which I can control when I’m not around,” she says.

To add grandeur, she has installed new double doors from the hall into the drawing room, to the left, and the dining room, to the right, and raised all existing door heights. She has also panelled the hall and staircase walls. “A giant skylight in the new roof floods daylight on to the stairs,” Victoria says. “I was worried it might be difficult to display paintings, so the panelling doubles as an architectural feature.”

Victoria was keen to make eye-catching colour choices. In the sitting room, the inspiration was 40 THE ENGLISH HOME

a pair of green velvet armchairs, which had belonged to her mother. “I’d also seen a deep-green and pale-blue drawing room in New York, and promised myself one day I’d create a similar scheme,” she says.

Victoria is never afraid to go bold: the dining room is painted “sludgy brown” and the spare bedroom is deep blue. “I’m not trying to recreate a country house completely,” she says. “I have quite masculine tastes.”

Cheerfully admitting she spent a lot of her budget on the vibrant velvet walls in the sitting room, Victoria says she appreciates the value of investing in “star” elements. The red-and-white wallpaper and matching upholstery fabric in the study was another indulgence, spotted in the Soane Britain shop window, but she has tailored other decorative choices accordingly, for instance, the neutral sofa in the sitting room is from her previous house. “It is not terribly comfortable but it works,” she explains, 

ABOVE LEFT The kitchen walls are painted in Nova N108 by Papers and Paints and the worktops are in Silestone, Suede, supplied by 202 Design. The framed illustrations are by James Colman.

ABOVE RIGHT The walls in the entrance hall are painted in Dusky White by Sanderson. The artwork is by contemporary artist Peter Lik.

In the cosy study, Victoria has boldly used Lotus Palmette in Raspberry from Soane Britain for the walls and upholstery. She bought the portrait, by Spanish artist Vicente Puig, at a sale in Montreal.

THE ENGLISH HOME 41

ABOVE Arabescato Carrara marble has been teamed with Vado taps in brushed gold in the master en-suite bathroom.

A mirrored wall provides a feeling of airiness. “This is important in a London house. Mirrors are very much my thing,” Victoria says.

Mirrored walls in the master bedroom and bathroom provide a feeling of airiness adding that she actively enjoys the “patina of age” on inherited pieces.

It is in the dining room that Victoria’s talent for adding architectural interest particularly sparkles.

One wall is panelled with antique glass, “to add width and reflect much-needed light,” she explains. But the pièce de résistance is the late-nineteenth-century fantasy oil painting depicting the Arno River in Florence.

“I bought this at Bonhams; it is three metres long and I knew it would create a wonderful focal point,” she says. George Brandreth, a picture restorer from Norfolk, reframed it for her in a bold neo-classical frame which treads a perfect line between antique and modern. Victoria loves to entertain, so on a Friday night, guests might gather in the cosy dining 

ABOVE LEFT The wallpaper in the master bedroom is Sanderson’s Chiswick Grove in Silver, and the headboard is in New Khmer silk in Peanut Shell by Jim Thompson Fabrics.

RIGHT Victoria uses the gas fire in the bedroom all the time.

The Pompadour marble fire surround is from Chesneys.

THE ENGLISH HOME 43

room to enjoy a roasted sea bass, the table set with family heirloom china.

As a keen cook (her cookbook, Flavour of the Month, was published in 2008), devising an efficient, yet smart, kitchen was essential to Victoria. “I’m not normally drawn to wooden units,” she says. “But 202 Design used this sleek oak in a contemporary way.” She was heavily involved with the design, and insistent that the central island unit be stretched to almost four metres. “Never be shy to go ‘bigger’ on scale,” Victoria says. “Overscaling doesn’t shrink a room, it provides gravitas.” The island unit also provides a natural congregation point when her sons return home.

Despite her love of strong colour, Victoria has decorated the two bedroom floors in cooler, soothing tones. She spotted the master bedroom Sanderson wallpaper “by chance whilst in Chelsea Harbour”, and, with her gimlet designer eye, deems it an excellent substitute for a more expensive hand-painted design.

The Chesneys chimneypiece provides a focal point.

“It’s not the right period but I love the thickness of it,” she says. Resourcefully keeping her existing headboard, Victoria had it reupholstered in a subtle neutral-pink silk from Jim Thompson Fabrics.

The master en-suite bathroom is also pink. “I’m not a pink person, but this shade – Tissue Pink [by Benjamin Moore] – is not sickly at all.” The Arabescato marble is deliberately honed, not glossy, to avoid “looking like a hotel bathroom”.

It is this pin-sharp attention to detail, one suspects, that lies at the heart of Victoria’s approach to design, and indeed to life. These days, her interiors projects are consultancy-based; her focus is on her eponymous scented-candle range. “The candles are an extension of my aesthetic,” she says. So which scent will she burn in the sitting room, her self-confessed favourite room, in the depths of February? “La Reine de la Nuit,” Victoria says, commenting that it features notes of winter jasmine and vetiver. Flickering against those glowing green walls, what could be a more perfect way to usher in lighter, spring days? n ABOVE LEFT In the spare bedroom, walls are painted chic Inchyra Blue by Farrow & Ball, whilst the headboard is upholstered in Fleur Exotique by Vervain from AltonBrooke. The Roman blind is in Melba Stripe linen in Teal, from Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam and the lamps are from I & JL Brown.

LEFT Antique-style lanterns from Vaughan Designs hint at the mews house’s heritage. The front door is painted in Bleached Lichen 1, with window frames in Chalky Downs 5, both by Dulux. To the right of the front door, the original garage has been converted into the dining room.

44 THE ENGLISH HOME

The aqua-hued walls in the dining room create a perfect contrast to the gold-toned accessories and time-worn antique furniture. For a similar colour, try Farrow & Ball’s Green Blue.

The sideboard and oil painting above are inherited and the tableware is by Emma Bridgewater.

46 THE ENGLISH HOME

le i PANACHE An elegant townhouse in Bath with a wealth of Georgian features has proven to be the perfect backdrop for a diverse collection of art and family heirlooms FEATURE & STYLING HANNAH NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHY CLAIRE WORTHY

ABOVE Bill inherited the large oak dining table, which unfolds to seat 10, from his grandparents. The trio of contemporary red paintings are

by Brazilian artist Régis Gonzales – a friend of Bill’s, LEFT An Aga sets the tone in this refined basement kitchen.

The ceramic crustacean dish is French and belonged to Bill’s mother and the Turkish tile next to the window maintains the colourful flourishes.

The original floor tiles are beautifully patinated with age.

48 THE ENGLISH HOME

T

here is a pleasing symmetry to the rows of honey-coloured Georgian houses that line the hills overlooking Bath. The city’s rich history, its sweeping crescents and the grand proportions of its houses are what drew Bill Keeling to it. “I find the entire city architecturally beautiful,” he explains.

Bill bought his home in Bath five years ago as a bolthole from the fast pace of life in London, where his work as co-owner of Prestat, the chocolate company with a Royal warrant, keeps him busy during the week.

As soon as Friday afternoon comes around, he jumps on a train at Paddington station to be whisked to Bath.

His elegant house is just a stone’s throw from the train station, allowing him to walk there in no time.

“Bath, logistically, for me was perfect, and its Georgian Regency heart is a period I love,” he says. “It was a transformative part of history, with canals being built, the Industrial Revolution and the death of high society with the incoming of the railways.”

Since purchasing the four-storey townhouse from two elderly authors in 2014, Bill has done very little to it. Fortunately, it retains a wealth of original features allowing the integrity and history of the building to remain firmly intact. Bill’s appreciation of Georgian architecture and the history of the house is paramount 

The floor-to-ceiling sash windows flood the drawing room with light. A ceramic bowl by Walter Keeler sits on top of the coffee table. The ceramic eye above the door frame is by South Korean artist Myung Nam An.

‘The paintings, pictures and pieces become companions.

I move them around to reconnect with them’ ABOVE “This is my Fred Flinstone bed,” Bill says. The bed and side-tables are both from Indonesia, the picture above the fireplace is from Bali, the mirror is Native American bought from an antiques shop in London, whilst the jug on top of the cupboard is by an English artist in Bath. For a similar rug, try the Darica Rug from Oka and Lombok for Indonesian beds made from solid teak.

to the way he lives. He has enhanced the interiors with his inherited furniture, artworks and instinctive flair for styling, exemplified in the vintage mannequins he sourced from a shop in Bath and repurposed into lamp stands. These striking lamps are also used

by Bill to display his favourite jackets, bought from a much-loved Nepalese clothing brand and a nod to his playful sense of style.

“I’m not interested in any one period over another and I don’t have a preference for ‘modern’ against ‘antique’. I like the juxtaposition of the two,” he explains. This is a contrast that plays out throughout his home, with its satisfying symmetrical architecture lending itself perfectly to Bill’s large collection of contemporary artworks.

Walking through the front door into the long hallway, the eye is immediately drawn towards the large and pleasingly square drawing room, painted in Tivoli, a classic blue by Little Greene. Sunlight floods into the room through the generous floor-to-ceiling sash windows which look out over the city. “My style is

50 THE ENGLISH HOME

eclectic,” Bill says of the many abstract paintings and ceramics that adorn the walls and shelves in the room. A Knole sofa which once belonged to Bill’s grandparents, strikingly reupholstered in Napoleon Bee by Timorous Beasties, sits perfectly within the Georgian proportions in the room.

Having travelled extensively, working for many years as a foreign correspondent for the Financial Times in places such as West Africa and Indonesia, Bill’s design aesthetic and furniture reflect his globetrotting past. A large wooden desk from Indonesia, intricately inlaid with mother-of-pearl, is host to his books and post. “I love craft: the layers, the process, the construct – I look for that,” he says.

Bill’s devotion to art stems from his mother, who would take him and his three brothers to museums and galleries whenever she could. Shaped by a strict Catholic childhood and having been sent to boarding school aged eight, Bill also found solace in books, particularly within the pages of Hergé’s Tintin, whose humorous influence can be felt around the house. 

The eclectic combination of furniture and accessories in the master bedroom includes a cabinet from Russia, a Vietnamese painting, a cloth from Sumatra and a chair Bill inherited from his grandparents. Try the Heron standing lamp and the Kirkwall club chair from Oka for a similar look.

THE ENGLISH HOME 51

‘For me, the contents of my home are a link to my grandparents and parents. They are the context of my lifetime’ ABOVE LEFT The spare bedroom at the top of the house has walls decorated with Broad Stripe Fontana wallpaper by Little Greene and art deco wall lights which Bill found at The Chelsea Antiques Fair.

ABOVE RIGHT Bill wearing a beloved Tintin jumper and next to one of his repurposed mannequin lamps.

The painting is by Tai Shan Schierenberg.

On the third floor, Bill’s bedroom enjoys glorious views over Bath and is enhanced with large kilim rugs on the floor and soft Brighton paint from Little Greene on the walls. The large room is perfect for Bill’s Indonesian bed and bedside tables, which are crafted from chunky planks of wood. Original Georgian inbuilt cupboards his clothes store and provide display spots for a pair of ceramic jugs.

A contemporary painting from Bali hangs above the elegant original fireplace. The top floor has two further guest bedrooms and a bathroom.

The basement is home to the kitchen and dining room and demonstrates Bill’s love of colour and his eclectic taste. Three modern red paintings by Bill’s friend, Brazilian artist Régis Gonzales, gaze down onto his grandparents’ antique oak dining table with

52 THE ENGLISH HOME

Jacobean chairs and an heirloom sideboard. An ornate antique oil painting of an eighteenth-century lady and several bowls of fruit, also inherited from his grandparents, hangs above the sideboard.

There is no planning or alignment in the pieces Bill chooses to surround himself with – he simply buys things because he loves them – yet his array of art, history, colour and humour combines to create a palpable sense of testimony. The quirky collections and cherished inherited heirlooms sit comfortably within the elegant Georgian interiors. “For me, the contents of my home are a link to my grandparents and parents. They are the context of my lifetime,” he says. “They encapsulate everything, from the relatives I was brought up with to the pieces I’ve acquired during my own short time on earth.” n

Luxury, hand-crafted hardwood f looring

Waxed Floors Ltd 92 Battersea Rise • London SW11 1EJ + 44 (0)20 7738 1620 • waxedfloors.co.uk

Delivered nationwide Order your free samples online now

ci t The pa listed

matio lows t

-year-old Grade II s within to shine

STYLING A G PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL

54 THE ENGLISH HOME

The informal dining area, which forms part of the redesigned kitchen, features a pair of utilitarian Original BTC pendant lamps, contrasted by an ornate, electrified French altar light, reflected in the gilded mirror.

Seating around the rustic oak farmhouse table consists of a distressed Hungarian bench and Eames-style dining chairs.

OPPOSITE The rear of the tile-hung house with labradors Boots and Molly.

ABOVE A collection of jugs, glasses and decorative objects is displayed on the shelves of the substantial Belgian armoire, which dates from the 1940s.

RIGHT A trio of east European painted factory lampshades, bought in France, hang above the granite-topped island unit in the kitchen which was supplied

by Howdens.

T

ucked away behind a high hedge, in a historic Sussex village, Francesca Fudge’s eighteenth-century Grade II listed house, dating back to 1704, is easy to miss. “The house looks small from the outside, but inside it is deceptively spacious,” she says, “With three teenage children, we needed at least four bedrooms and plenty of space inside and out.”

When Francesca and her Canadian husband Brian moved into the house three years ago with children, Megan, 21, Amy, 17 and Alex, 16, they set about planning how to adapt it to twentieth-century family life without destroying its character.

Back in the 1960s, previous owners had constructed a two-storey extension at the back which added an extra bedroom and bathroom on the first floor plus a kitchen and dining area downstairs. “Although the

house required updating, all the essentials were there; five bedrooms (although one is now my office), a large garden and lots of parking,” Francesca says. “The icing on the cake was a barn where I could store my stock.”

Francesca is an antiques dealer, so easily accessible storage space for her treasures makes life less complicated. “I spend days on the road, and make frequent, sometimes weekly trips to the continent,” she explains. “Often, I’ll get back just in time to offload the haul before heading off on the school run. In between trips abroad, I buy closer to home, getting up at dawn to trawl through the antique fairs at Kempton or Ardingly, the latter being conveniently just a couple of hundred yards up the road from my shop, Ardingly Antiques & Interiors.”

Despite the profusion of ancient beams, Francesca and Brian’s house has a pared-back, 

ABOVE Natural textures abound in the sitting room where a Victorian button-back sofa, bought at Sunbury Antiques Market, is paired with a well-worn Dutch leather wing chair, and a decorative mid-century French metal and glass coffee table.

THE ENGLISH HOME 57

‘I have no hesitation when it comes to mixing styles and periods’ ABOVE In a little ante room adjacent to the kitchen, a decadent, early nineteenth-century crystal chandelier is juxtaposed with a traditional French school desk and a delicate ebonizedwood chair.

LEFT Detail of the antique chandelier.

58 THE ENGLISH HOME

uncluttered look. “Although the house required updating, we were intent on retaining the period details such as the beams and fireplaces,” Francesca explains. “Underfloor heating, which we installed beneath a new limestone floor and runs from the hall through to the kitchen, doesn’t detract from the period style in any way.”

Other changes the couple made include knocking out the plaster in the beamed walls between the sitting room and an adjoining small side room to enhance the flow of light into the space without detracting from the traditional look. “In places, we even knocked out ceilings,” says Francesca.

Although the existing kitchen was spacious, Francesca was keen to put her own stamp on it.

Working with a local builders’ merchant, she specified a classic combination of grey-painted Shaker-style units contrasted by work surfaces of black granite. The dining area in the kitchen, with French windows opening onto the garden, has an inviting feel with rustic, distressed furniture, presided over by a striking nineteenth-century portrait of a French priest. 

In the rear section of the sitting room a Swedish dining chair is teamed with a well-worn English oak table. The painted buffet was bought in Normandy whilst the India Jane lamp base was a fortunate find at a car boot sale. The ceiling and the plaster in the internal beamed wall have been knocked out to allow light to flow through into the main sitting area.

ABOVE Checks and colourful vintage oil paintings create a welcoming look in the entrance hall. The limestone floor was supplied and laid by Mandarin Stone. The blue-and-white blind fabric is Agnes by Kate Forman.

RIGHT Francesca with labrador Molly.

The garden itself looks remarkably mature, thanks to Brian’s hard work. “He put the word out locally that if someone’s garden was becoming overgrown, he’d dig up any trees or shrubs that needed thinning out,” Francesca says. “In that way, we ended up with a more or less instant garden for remarkably little cost.”

Upstairs, each of the bedrooms has a contemporary bathroom or shower room designed by Francesca. She has juxtaposed the clean lines of grey stone tiles and contemporary-style sanitaryware with the 300-year-old beams and ancient, uneven plaster walls, to create an unexpected twist.

The walls throughout the house are painted white, but there is no lack of colour. “Painted furniture, cushions, upholstery and decorative paintings, which generally come from France and Belgium,

60 THE ENGLISH HOME

add the colour accent,” Francesca says. “As I swap everything around so frequently, having a mainly plain backdrop means that most pieces, even those upholstered in a strong pattern, don’t look out of place.”

Francesca’s interest in antiques and interior decoration developed early on in life, and was encouraged by her late mother. “She was an avid reader of interior design magazines and moving furniture around was second nature to her. It didn’t take long for me to start joining in,” Francesca says.

“At the drop of a hat, she would completely change the furniture in our family home in Fulham, and I’ve followed her example. I often move everything around on a whim – perhaps an armchair I’ve bought will propel me into a change-around or a Fauve-like still life will become a focal point in a new arrangement.

A pair of marble-topped nineteenthcentury French bedside cabinets stand on either side of the wrought-iron gilded bed, a collaboration between Francesca and a Sussex blacksmith friend. The lamps are French, whilst the lampshades were made by Ruby Watts Lighting.

Having the shop does make that part of life easier – a surplus sofa simply goes into stock.”

Life as an antiques dealer for Francesca took off soon after she and Brian moved from London to the Sussex village of Ditchling in 2004. “I’d just finished studying for my law degree and for a bit of fun I entered an interior design magazine competition,” she says. “I was only a runner-up, but it got me thinking about what I liked doing. Interiors and antiques had always fascinated me, so I decided it was time to try my hand with antiques. I held ‘open houses’ at weekends, with a ‘For Sale’ ticket on pretty much everything. Subsequently, I had my own antiques and interiors shop in Hurstpierpoint, until I found larger premises in Ardingly.”

Francesca has developed a strong interiors style and is constantly on the lookout for pieces to try at home. She edits carefully and keeps to a pared-back colour palette. “I have no hesitation when it comes to mixing styles and periods, but sticking to similar finishes, such brass and gilt, plus shades of blue and white, establishes a sense of cohesion,” she says.

It is clear to see Francesca has an eagle eye for quirky antiques and her home acts as the perfect canvas for the constantly evolving treasures that she picks up along the way. “Over the years you get a feel for what looks right,” says Francesca.

“Being able to indulge my passion for antiques and experiment with pieces at home makes it a fascinating way of life.” n

THE ENGLISH HOME 61

The pair of ornate gilt-framed mirrors in the drawing room are in two sections; the top ones being late-seventeenth-century, whilst those underneath are eighteenth-century. Below are two splendid carved and gilded wood tables dating from 1860 and made by Gillows of Lancaster.

62 THE ENGLISH HOME

Se

SCENE

e

Enhancements to a gracious Queen Anne country house by its current custodians safeguard it for future generations FEATURE AMANDA HARLING PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL

Found deteriorating in the orangery, the nineteenth-century Turkish carpet has been restored and given pride of place in the drawing room. A nineteenthcentury Venetian chandelier adds to the sumptuous mood.

64 THE ENGLISH HOME

D

TOP Painted a rich red, the dining room is hung with several eighteenth-century portraits of the Warde family. The family group at the far end of the room by John Wootton dates from around 1735 and shows John Warde riding the grey

horse in the centre, with Squerryes is in the background. The portrait above the fireplace is of his wife Frances Bristow who died in 1727.

ABOVE The stately Queen Anne house, surrounded by scenic countryside.

ating from the 1680s, Squerryes Court is the epitome of a classic Queen Anne country house. Situated on the edge of the pretty Kent village of Westerham, on a plateau carved out of a gentle incline, the elegantly proportioned red-brick property looks out over a lake and is surrounded by landscaped gardens, leafy woods and the rolling hills of the North Downs in the distance.

Bought in 1731 by John Warde from his friend William Villiers, the 3rd Earl of Jersey, Squerryes Court is now home to the eighth generation of Wardes – Henry, his wife Claire and their four children, Isabella, 12, Clemmie, 10, Rosanna, seven and William, six.

Henry took on the running of the house and the 2,500 estate with Claire in 2013 when his parents decided to retire and relocate to a cottage in the grounds. Upon moving into the property, the couple decided it needed renovating to suit the demands of a young family. “Before we moved in, very few changes had been made to the house since World War II and it was in need of updating,” Claire explains. “As the house is Grade I listed, English Heritage was closely involved and very supportive.”  THE ENGLISH HOME 65

The various glass lampshades forming a pretty ceiling-hung display were a fortuitous find in the attic of the ancient house. The double doors handily lead to the childrens’ playroom.

‘The porcelain pieces on top of the cupboards had been down in the cellar for decades – now they’re part of our everyday lives’ One of the first tasks the couple undertook was to create a welcoming family kitchen. “During the austere post-war years, Henry’s grandparents demolished the wings on either side of the house, one of which contained the old kitchen,” Claire says.

Having demolished the wings, Henry’s grandparents divided the morning room in the house into a small kitchen with an adjacent dining room. “In their day it was a black-tie dinner in the dining room every night, even if they weren’t entertaining,” she adds.

As Claire and Henry’s style is somewhat more relaxed, a large, airy kitchen with space for a dining table was called for. “We like to eat in the kitchen with the children,”’ says Claire. “No black tie, unless it’s a formal occasion, then we dine in the library or the dining room. We entertain formally fairly frequently – sometimes dinners for members of our wine club or fund-raising functions for the charities we support.”

Claire has achieved her aim of making it look as if the kitchen has evolved over the years by installing custom-made cabinetry to suit the era of the house and painting it in two colours. Authentic accessories provide a finishing touch. “I found the glass lampshades hanging above the table and island unit up in the attic,” she explains. “The porcelain pieces on top of the cupboards had been down in the cellar for decades – now they’re part of our everyday lives.”

Updating this side of the house was an 18-monthlong project, during which time the library became the family’s all-purpose living area. “We’re lucky that Henry’s parents had installed a catering kitchen on the other side of the house, close to the dining room and library,” Claire explains. “We took it in turns to trundle backwards and forwards with a trolley piled high with plates and dishes. It’s made me appreciate the convenience of the new kitchen all the more.” 

ABOVE LEFT The view towards the lake from the entrance at the front of the house.

ABOVE RIGHT The tall sash windows flood the kitchen with light and look out onto the east-facing formal garden at the rear of the house.

THE ENGLISH HOME 67

S T Y L I S H R E T R E AT S I N T H E U K ’ S H OT T E S T L O C AT I O N S From raising the flag on your own private island to watching the stars over the sea from your hot tub, Boutique Retreats specialise in unique, stylish properties that celebrate their surroundings whilst embracing luxurious living.

Whether you’re after something beautifully bijou or large and luxurious, a long weekend or a two-week summer holiday, our carefully boutique-retreats.co.uk

selected properties will take your breath away.

+44 (0)1872 553 491 enquiries@boutique-retreats.co.uk

We know how good getaways should be.

The principal reception rooms remain largely unchanged since Anthea, Henry’s late mother, redecorated them in the early 1980s. The south-facing drawing room, with its ornately plastered ceiling, timeless golden-yellow damask wallpaper and pale coral curtains with swags and tails, glows with colour and warmth. Much of the furniture in the room is English, but the paintings are mostly continental and date from the late-seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. John Warde (1721–1775) was an enthusiastic and knowledgeable art collector, and the paintings he bought for the house include some fine examples by artists popular during the mid-eighteenth century.

John’s wife Frances, who died before her husband bought Squerryes Court, commissioned the set of three Soho tapestries – named after the area of London in which they were made – that adorn the walls of the Tapestry Bedroom. Woven by Joshua Morris, a renowned weaver of the era, in silk on woollen warps, after exuberant designs by French artist Andien de Clermont, the panels feature monkeys, birds, flowers and foliage. 

ABOVE The Tapestry bedroom is hung with tapestries dating from 1720. Woven by Joshua Morris, they commemorate the marriage of Frances Bristow and John Warde.

LEFT Claire and Henry in the library.

Henry’s mother, Anthea, so loved the BBC’s decorative scheme for the room when they filmed Jane Austen’s Emma at Squerryes, she insisted it remain.

THE ENGLISH HOME 69

ABOVE The walls in this guest bedroom are adorned with 300-year-old panels of hand-painted Chinese wallpaper The floral fire screen was painted by Henry’s grandmother.

As well as the house, the couple run the estate, which until fairly recently was farmed as partly dairy, partly arable. This changed in 2004, when Henry’s father John was inspired by some visitors from France to plant 36 acres with vines. “A contingent from a well-known French champagne house came to see us with a proposal to buy some land where they could plant vines,” Henry explains. “In their opinion, the chalky terrain, along with our long, mild summers and cool evenings, were ideal conditions for growing grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier

70 THE ENGLISH HOME

and Pinot Noir.” The family considered the offer, but decided to do it themselves instead and are now finally reaping the rewards. “It takes time to produce a good sparkling wine, but our 2014 Vintage Brut won platinum in last year’s Decanter World Wine Awards,” Henry says.

Further strings have been added to the estate’s bow with the recent opening of Squerryes Winery and Restaurant overlooking fields on the other side of Westerham. “Sharing this beautiful part of Kent with others gives us enormous pleasure,” says Henry. n

MY ENGLISH HOME

Sharing food and laughter with friends in his Cotswold home – where books, the vegetable garden and comfort are of the utmost importance – is what makes this food writer and television judge happiest 72 THE ENGLISH HOME

M

atthew Fort is perhaps best known as a judge on BBC2’s The Great British Menu, which launched in 2006. An award-winning food writer and critic who was Food & Drink Editor of The Guardian newspaper for 15 years, he has written about food and travel for several titles including The Financial Times Saturday Review, Waitrose Food Illustrated (now Waitrose & Partners Food) and Esquire magazine. He is also the author of four books, the most recent of which, Summer In The Islands: An Italian Odyssey, is his third exploring the gastronomy, culture and history of Italy on a Vespa. Having fallen in love with Italy aged just 11, “because of the importance they attributed to ice cream”, he has nurtured a lifelong passion for the country, yet his home remains very much in England.

Where do you live and why?

I live in a village just outside Stroud in Gloucestershire. Stroud doesn’t have a neat and tidy Cotswolds air to it. There are a lot of artists, writers, musicians and metropolitan refugees like me – a wonderful mixture of folk. However, above all, whilst it isn’t a smart or thriving town, Stroud does have a fantastic farmers’ market – one of the best in the country. It is well-established and the nearest thing to a continental market that I’ve come across in this country.

FEATURE SAMANTHA SCOTT-JEFFRIES PORTRAIT © GRANT SCOTT

How did you find your current home?

I moved here in 2008. I had been renting a cottage down the road for six months when I went for supper with some friends at the top of the village and saw this place up for sale. I liked it because I could afford it. The outside is undistinguished in any way, but the inside is very particular because it used to be the village police station. I’ve always had champagne tastes on a beer budget.

How would you describe your home?

The essence of this house is comfort. It is not a tremendously neat and tidy house, or one that has been designed with a single carefully controlled aesthetic. It’s not showy.

There are bits of furniture I’ve gathered over the years that have ended up here. There is lots of room for books, which have been a mainstay of my life.

What have you done to make it yours?

I spent all the money I had on the kitchen, which for someone of my obsessions is the

most important thing. When I moved in, the kitchen was a narrow little corridor with a tiny separate dining room that was a nonsense. I thought ‘I don’t want that’, so I had the wall knocked down between the two. What I hadn’t anticipated was that by doing so, light was brought right into the heart of the house and the whole ground floor space opened up, transforming the way it works as a circuit of rooms that are connected.

Can you describe your kitchen today?

It’s a very simple rectangular room, with a cooking area at one end and a sink that looks out on to the front garden, where I grow my vegetables. The cooker is a Falcon with an induction hob – I adore this beast of a machine. Separating the cooking area from the dining area is a chopping table that I’ve had for 20 or so years, now painted a Cotswold green.

It has seen a lot of action.

I like an open kitchen and to be able to see everything in it, so I have bookshelves and open shelving built by Woodchester Kitchens, who are local craftsmen. It’s designed for the symbiosis between cooking and eating. Guests can sit here if I’m cooking and entertaining. I also have a small collection of twentieth-century woodcuts on the walls.

When does the house really come to life?

The happiest moments for me are being at the end of the table with 11 other people sitting there all purple in the face with laughter and hearing that great wall of sound. It’s that sense of communion and communication that you only really get around a kitchen table.

Would a visitor to your home instantly sense your passion for food and cooking?

What they would get is a sense of hospitality, of which food is a part. I hope that when anyone comes through the door they feel a sense of comfort and ease. My home is an assembly of things that make me feel comfortable, and food is an essential part of that. My fear – my absolute terror – is that people will leave thinking ‘I didn’t really get enough to eat’.

When did you first fall in love with food?

I remember two things. Firstly, when I was about four, I would go to see my granny and she used to make hot chocolate with a

daub of whipped evaporated milk on top.

I can still envision the glossy surface of this chocolate with a fat comma of cream and the way it used to envelop my top lip with the hot and the cool.

Secondly, on rainy Saturday afternoons, when it was too wet to go outside and at a time before television, the four of us boys [Fort and his brothers] used to make fudge with granny at the Aga. That smell of molten butter and melting sugar is something that haunts your taste memory for the rest of your life.

Would you tell us about your garden?

There are three vegetable beds, a fruit bed, comice pear trees, greengage trees and a quince tree. I grow peas, broad beans, climbing beans, onions, carrots, potatoes, beetroot, salads and turnips. I tend to grow several varieties of each; it’s a form of mania.

I have this dream of finding the best carrot or the best beetroot or the variety I like the most. Different varieties have different qualities and different flavours. That to me is an enduring source of fascination.

What are your most treasured possessions?

If the house caught on fire I would take the portrait of my daughter from my bedroom which was taken when she was about 14.

Her name is Lois. She now lives in London but visits fairly often. Like all chefs, I am also attached to my knives. When I was writing Summer In The Islands I went to a village in Sardinia where there are a number of artisan knife-makers and I had to have a particular one, even though it was entirely impractical to carry it around on a Vespa for the next four months.

What does home mean to you?

Home is fundamental. It’s a refuge from the dramas of life. It’s also an ongoing therapy.

It’s both a protector and an expression of you and that’s what it means to me. Anyone coming into this house can see the sorts of things that I love. The things that my parents also loved when I was growing up – music, books, food and conversation.

Finally, what should no English home be without?

A decent cooker. I do think that’s what every house should have, above all.

Series 15 of The Great British Menu will air on BBC2 in the spring. n THE ENGLISH HOME 73

Shepherd Huts | Workshops | Garages | Sheds | Shepherd Hut Studios | Offices | Beach Hut | Summer Houses | Bespoke Timber Buildings

At Appletree Bespoke Timber Buildings Limited we specialise in creating high quality bespoke shepherd huts, alongside other timber buildings. Our family run business focuses on giving customers a friendly, bespoke service resulting in high quality, bespoke buildings which will stand the test of time.

Appletree Bespoke Timber Buildings 01953 850072 | info@appletreebespoke.co.uk www.appletreebespoke.co.uk

Clare Mosley

THE QUINTESSENCE OF COMFORT An ESSE stove creates a focal point at the heart of the home filling the entire space with radiant, welcoming warmth and, we’d like to think, your heart with joy! www.esse.com

01282 813235

WWW.CLAREMOSLEY.COM 74 THE ENGLISH HOME

STYLE INSPIRATION

Our special section dedicated to design and decorating inspiration begins here

FEATURE KATY MCLEAN

TROPICAL BEAUTY

Designs inspired by rainforests usually feature daring colours and bold tropical patterns.

Desirable for some, but for those with a classic taste, the soft palette of the Daintree Collection from Ailanto will appeal. Featuring birds and plants native to the Australian rainforest, the exotic allure combines with timeless elegance to suit a fine English home.

Daintree wallpaper, ÂŁ208.60 a roll, Ailanto, available at George Spencer Designs THE ENGLISH HOME 75

1

4 5

3

Find your

STYLE TRIBE We believe most readers will find themselves drawn to a particular design aesthetic, with fabrics they cannot resist and furniture they covet. Here we present key ingredients and influencers for four style tribes

STYLE TRIBE:

2

True Romantic

T

hose drawn to florals, faded antique linens, ginghams, ticking stripes and gently distressed painted furniture will find a natural affinity to the True Romantic style.

This look exudes femininity in a lovely palette of pastel tones, offset with dove greys and chalky whites.

These dreamy looks are gentle on the eye – no strong, vibrant colours or harsh, strong lines here.

Romantic schemes are pretty and relaxed – perhaps with loose covers on a plump, cosy sofa. However, delicate flourishes and details such as ruffles, ribbons or a pom-pom trim elevate the simple to something beautiful. Vintage pieces might sit along Scandinavian and French influences, and cherished pieces of furniture are often given a new lease of life with 

Key elements • • • • •

Florals, tickings and gingham Authentic vintage acessories Pastel colours, whites and greys Painted furniture Possible French and Scandinavian design influences • Country-inspired details

6

1 Shabby Chic founder Rachel Ashwell embraces the true romantic style with her range of furniture and floral fabrics.

2 Faded linens with charming rose motifs are an absolute essential for the True Romantic. Fabric, Faded Roses, in a selection of colours, £59 a metre, Sarah Hardaker 3 Ticking stripes, florals and sweet country motifs such as birds or bees work well on linens and cottons. Seamist linen, £75 a metre; Pom Poms, £14.95 a metre; all other fabrics £64 a metre, Peony & Sage 4 Combining a lovely stripe in a soft blue with a delicate pattern of trailing flowers this linen is utterly romantic.

Beauclerc Narrow in Wedgwood, £120 a metre, Inchyra 5 Though more recent collections from Kate Forman would suit the Smart Bohemian tribe (see page 84), her roots are as a True Romantic.

Christobel, Oyster, £75 a metre, Kate Forman 6 A True Romantic would be wise to source bedlinens from Cabbages & Roses for a wonderfully dreamy room.

Clementine duvet cover, from £40 for a single, Cabbages & Roses PAINTS LEFT TO RIGHT Rose Ash Light, Sanderson; Lily Lily Rose, Earthborn; Pale Wedgwood, Little Greene; Water Glass, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint THE ENGLISH HOME 77

chalk paint gently sanded back for a distressed appearance. As with the Smart Bohemians (see page 84), True Romantics usually eschew anything too glitzy – though perhaps a few drop crystals on lights might add a lustrous note.

Textiles are simple, but quality linens, printed cottons and florals abound in both ditsy motifs and blowsy chintzes. Whilst sleeker versions of this look might be implemented by those who live in town yet yearn for the country, generally speaking this tribe is to be found living in sweet rural cottages and informal country homes. 

1 Design influencers

2

• Vanessa Arbuthnott • Rachel Ashwell • Pippa Blacker • Willow Crossley • Kate Forman • Sarah Hardaker • Caroline Inchyra • Christina Strutt • Susie Watson

3 78 THE ENGLISH HOME

4

1 With a range of textiles inspired by nature in a soft palette of faded pastels, Pippa Blacker is a romantic at heart. Arabella Maxi, from £65 a metre, Pippa Blacker Interiors 2 Hand-printed on linen, Cloth & Clover’s beautiful fabrics are often inspired by or recreated from archive documents and precious fragments of materials, giving them a timeless charm. Table in Ullington, Lettuce/Fennel, £130 a metre, and all other fabrics and paper, all Cloth & Clover 3 Pale blues are just as pretty as pinks and this sweet paisleyinspired motif is ideal for a feminine look. Paisley Rose Country Blue, £52 a metre, Jacqueline Milton 4 Traditional English country blooms have a natural affinity with the true romantic aesthetic. Large Hydrangea linen, £54 a metre, Meg Morton

DS Decorative Periods ds_decorative_periods

07712281831

dsdecorativeperiods.co.uk

THE ELECTRIC RANGE

MODERN EFFICIENCY, CLASSIC GOOD LOOKS.

NOW AVAILABLE IN MARINE BLUE

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

01453 890018 www.everhot.co.uk

1

2

5 2

4 9

7

8

STYLE TRIBE:

Classic English

R

3

efined, considered and enduring, this look appeals to owners of period properties, usually Regency or Georgian. Admirers of the Classic English aesthetic have a love of symmetry, a predilection towards smart co-ordination and an appreciation of fine period features.

The period and architecture of the property generally plays a pivotal role in decorative schemes, with cornicing, architraving, fireplaces and ornate ceilings being sympathetically restored and celebrated.

Fabric choices gently chime without being strictly matched, with a nod towards more traditional patterns – damasks, structured florals, plaids, stripes, paisley and so on, but all in a limited palette. Tending towards a range of heritage hues as well as a neutral rather than a vibrant mix, the overall decorative palette is refined.

Key elements • Symmetry • Traditional furniture • Heritage hues • Smart lines • Georgian influences • Architectural details • Passementerie • Formal window treatments

10

6

1 Large-scale tree of life designs are ideal for a classic scheme.

Jacaranda, Gold, £105 a metre, Marvic Textiles 2 Preserving or restoring period features, such as plasterwork on ceilings, is essential in the grand country homes or elegant townhouses of the Classic English tribe. Bespoke plasterwork by Geoffrey Preston 3 A warm but neutral palette is the general choice for the Classic English tribe, but richer colours can add depth and are particualry good for displaying traditional art (as seen through the doorway).

Hallway in Wash Stop, £49.20 for 2.5l, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint 4 A sitting room designed by Guy Goodfellow, full of classic touches and smart yet comfortable and inviting. 5 Give antique furniture a modern twist by mixing patterns on upholstery. Chair back in Pasha Embroidery, £130 a metre and all other fabrics, Ian Sanderson 6 Antiques or quality reproductions set a traditional note. Here Will Fisher of Jamb has combined old and new with aplomb. The Campbell table, £4,560, and all other furniture, Jamb 7 Edward Bulmer is an exemplar of Classic English style and his eponymous range of paints features shades that suit heritage properties. Mummy, £49.50 for 2.5l, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint 8 Botanical and floral designs in large or trailing motifs are a popular choice with the Classic English tribe. Trailing Sycamore weave, £69 a metre, Sanderson 9 Passementerie such as fringing, borders and braids adds some lovely detail to curtains, cushions and upholstery. Selection of Trianon Trimmings from Nina Campbell at Osborne & Little 10 A Classic English home would not be complete without a canine companion. Chair seat in Kempsey, £85 a metre, Colefax and Fowler PAINTS LEFT TO RIGHT Porcelain Glaze, Benjamin Moore; Bandstand, Period Collection, Crown; Deep Sung Cream, Craig & Rose; Elephant’s Breath, Farrow & Ball THE ENGLISH HOME 81

1

A strong neutral base of cream and stone hues, enriched with sophisticated tones of blue, sage, rich reds and burnt oranges, is a perfect backdrop for antique furniture and classically inspired pieces. The look is smart but comfortable. Armchairs and sofas have strong outlines and tactile, rich upholstery.

Windows are dressed with decadently pooling drapes, perhaps with swags for the very traditional at heart, or a box-pelmet for a fresher look. Modern twists and uplifts can be introduced – this is not a look devout to a particular period, though it remains coherent and respectful to perhaps a Georgian or neo-classical aesthetic, whether in town or country. 

2 Design influencers • Edward Bulmer • Nina Campbell • Guy Goodfellow • Will Fisher (Jamb) • David Mlinaric • Colin Orchard • Ben Pentreath • Max Rollitt • Christopher Vane Percy • Joanna Wood

3 82 THE ENGLISH HOME

1 Decadent damasks, either as curtains or wallpaper, are appealing in a classic scheme.

This design has an aged appearance and emulates the look of a silk. Mitford Weave, £99 a metre, Zoffany 2 The strong symmetrical repeat of this floral wallpaper is the perfect scale for a classic English home. Chelwood wallpaper, £69 a roll, Nina Campbell at Osborne & Little 3 Interior designer Henriette von Stockhausen has maximised the architectural features in this beautiful scheme.

4 Quality textiles with traditional trimmings are a mainstay of the Classic English tribe. Selection from Colefax and Fowler

4

Order your free fabric samples at

thefootstoolworkshop.co.uk 01443 831 981

Beautiful.

Practical.

Customisable.

1

4 5

3

STYLE TRIBE:

Smart Bohemian

L

2

overs of colour, pattern and craftsmanship will find they are drawn to the relaxed, softly eclectic, playful look of Smart Bohemian style. With a range of global influences combining with touches of the Classic English aesthetic, the bohemian house is lovingly evolved with a sense of the well-travelled.

This should not be a haphazard look; there is a loose cohesion, perhaps in the colour palette, which could be bright and vibrant with bursts of pure colour or rich, dark and moody with navy, plum, mustard and fuchsia hues.

Tapestries and detailed embroidery might nestle alongside geometric prints, ikats and simple stripes.

Textiles amassed over years are used for an array of appealing cushions or on lampshades; suzanis and kilims used as rugs, throws and wall hangings.

Antique heirlooms find their place next to restored vintage pieces, newer, contemporary additions or something brought home from a far-flung holiday.

This look is maximalist, confident and radiates comfort, with every piece seeming to tell a story, often showcasing craftsmanship, too – be it hand-blockprinting, wood-carving or intricate crewelwork.

6

Key elements • Confident mixtures of colour and pattern • Global influences • Maximalist details • Blending styles of furniture • Suzanis, ikats and crewelwork • Carved furniture

1 The epitome of smart bohemian, this sitting room by Salvesen Graham combines a range of colourful patterns against a classic backdrop, along with vintage and contemporary pieces. 2 Confidence with colour and pattern is core to the bohemian tribe. Asca rug, £4,481; Matlock chair, £2,400, both A Rum Fellow 3 Zara Bolingbroke-Kent of Bombay Sprout exemplifies the bohemian spirit with her interior styling and collections of vibrant Indian textiles and rugs with a modern twist. 4 Smart Bohemians seek out quirky textiles such as this stiped cotton with bold marigolds.

Mughal Marigold, £85 a metre, Bombay Sprout 5 Though the Smart Bohemian tends to mix and match across collections and collate over years, this range provides a strong foundation with a varied mix of patterns and colours. Selection of fabrics from the Bohemian Travels collection, Mulberry Home 6 Smart Bohemians use textiles to make a statement, such as this vibrant upholstery. Combined with an antique rug, furniture showcasing craftsmanship of another culture and a modern shade on a traditional lamp base, the look is evolved yet curated. Chair, Stormy Weather, Sunset, £140 a metre; lampshade, Lisboa, Rose, £120 a metre, Jim Thompson 7 Along with crewelworks, velvets, tapestry and weaves, beautiful prints, ikats are a particularly essential part of the bohemian’s textile choices.

Hand-woven silk cotton ikat in Turquoise/Off-white, £45 a metre, Susan Deliss PAINTS LEFT TO RIGHT Inglenook, Earthborn Paints; Sulking Room Pink, Farrow & Ball; Vintage Denim, Designers Guild; Pleat, Little Greene

7 THE ENGLISH HOME 85

1

2

This results in a vibrant, inviting and curated feel. It should not be cluttered or muddled; there can still be a clean freshness and a plain backdrop allows for the playful blend of fabrics. Textiles really are a crucial ingredient, with cushions and upholstery taking centre stage, though supporting textures are also important.

There should not be anything too shiny, glossy or glamorous – think naturally finished wood, or perhaps woven furniture, antiqued metals and mirrors with patina. For flooring, look to wood or natural fibres, topped with richly hued and patterned rugs. 

3 Design influencers • Lucy Barlow • Susan Deliss • Luke Edward Hall • Kit Kemp • Lulu Lytle • Molly Mahon • Sarah Vanrenen

4 86 THE ENGLISH HOME

1 Textiles that champion craftsmanship such as hand-block-printing are a much-loved ingredient of the Smart Bohemian tribe.

Patee, £162 a metre, Molly Mahon 2 Woven in England, this fabric has artisan quality combined with smart use of colour and pattern. Firenze, £230 a metre, Teyssier 3 A hot palette of reds, pinks and oranges is tempered by cool, stylish blue-greys in this vibrant scheme full of ethnic patterns. Blinds, Tapestry Stripe, £98 a metre; sofa, Inara, £69 a metre; selection of other fabrics from the Azara collection, from £39 a metre, Jane Churchill 4 Bright, bold colour, ethnic artwork, bamboo-framed mirrors, fringe -trimmed cushions and a wicker ottoman are just some of the elements that make this a beautifully smart bohemian bedroom by Barlow & Barlow

www.theheadboardworkshop.co.uk or call us on 01291 628216

(industrial) kitchens

Extraordinary

Headboards & Beds | Ottomans | Stools & Chairs

VISIT UNFITTED.CO.UK FOR DETAILS

Whether its traditional or classic, fitted or freestanding, our kitchens are refreshingly different, and with a unique range of painted, timber, distressed, vintage and industrial finishes, we’ve a kitchen style that’s perfect for your home.

If you’re looking for a truely bespoke kitchen to reflect your individual style, visit our showroom at Moreton in Marsh in the heart of the Cotswolds or register online for a brochure.

Comprehensive design service and home consultations arranged countrywide. Commissions fulfilled throughout UK, Europe and worldwide.

High Street Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 0LH www.unfitted.co.uk 01608 650065

1

3

4

5

STYLE TRIBE:

Sleek & Chic

G

2

lamorous, sophisticated and luxurious, Sleek & Chic is all about clean lines and sumptuous textures. Aficionados of this design aesthetic err towards more contemporary styles, yet have an appreciation of classical forms. In a period townhouse, original features, such as decorative cornicing, might be simply treated in a single, non-attention-seeking colour or given a modern update, making them more dramatic but not wedded to the original period style.

With this look, palettes are often neutral and calm, perhaps light and bright, or a dramatic monochrome.

Richness can be brought in through the use of smart dark tones such as navy or teal perhaps – perfect partners to accents of gold and silver.

Polished metals on furniture, lighting and other fixtures are essential – lacquer and glass, too, provide smooth, shiny textures.

Furniture will have angular lines and a streamlined silhouette. Pattern is restricted, however, textures are crucial for bringing interest and opulence. Subtle patterns in the same colour as the backdrop might be used, with character being added through tactile combinations rather than bold motifs. High-quality 

6

Key elements • Elegant furniture • Luxurious textures and finishes • Neutral palettes with rich accents • Angular shapes • Statement lighting

1 Ornate plasterwork painted in one colour provides a grand backdrop to streamlined, modern furniture for a signature chic look.

Contemporary Designer Italian Quilted Nubuck Sofa, £19,440, and all other furniture, Juliettes Interiors 2 Artwork is often used as a hero-piece of the Sleek & Chic look. This monochrome sketch works well in a pared-back palette full of rich textures.

Rupert footstool in Isla Swallow, £395, Neptune 3 Statement features, such as dramtic lighting installations, are a favourite of the Sleek & Chic tribe. Moonlight Murmuration light, £21,456; Whippet table, £59,988; Sable chair, £1,596; Sable armchair, £1,956, all Ochre 4 A geometric pattern is perfect for some cushions to add a lift in a smart sitting room. Vitelli, Charcoal, £89 a metre, Larsen 5 Helen Green Designs demonstrates the smart, grown-up look of the Sleek & Chic tribe with elegant, modern furniture and a range of luxurious textures and details. 6 Here, a deep red enriches a modern dining room by Natalia Miyar. Note how angular lines are carefully balanced by some softer curves, and hard, polished metals, marble and wood are softened by silk lampshades, a rich wool rug and upholstered dining chairs. 7 With plain fabrics, textures are key – this bouclé finish on a high-quality wool will add tactile interest. Iona, Storm, £196 a metre, Fox Linton PAINTS TOP TO BOTTOM Light Umber, Fired Earth; Minim, Paint & Paper Library; Gargoyle, Zoffany; Ink, Atelier Ellis

• Striking art • Mirrors & mirror finishes

7 THE ENGLISH HOME 89

wools, decadent velvets and silks and fine linens are favourite choices of the tribe.

Artworks are often hero pieces for a room, although other statement pieces, such as a spectacular light or a modern piece of furniture, might be used as well or instead, balanced against quieter and more classic elements of the room. This style is not about being minimalist and ultra-modern, but certainly the look is not fussy – all finishes and adornments are simple yet impactful, luxurious and extremely well-considered. n

1

Design influencers • Louise Bradley • Helen Green Design • Kelly Hoppen • Alexander James • Natalia Miyar • Sophie Paterson • Katharine Pooley

3 90 THE ENGLISH HOME

4

1 Touches of rich colour, such as burnt orange and golden mustard, add depth to a neutral palette.

Silks increase the luxurious refinement of the overall look.

Sofa, Tamarind, Natural/Slate, £61 a metre; lampshades, Orissa Silk, Paprika £36 a metre, and all cushions in selection of fabrics, James Hare 2 Dark cabinetry in charcoal, navy or hunter green, with contrasts in bronze or copper and smooth marble worktops set the scene for the Sleek & Chic tribe’s kitchen. Haddon kitchen in charcoal and burnished bronze, from £15,000, Kitchen Makers 3 Simple, elegant lines on furniture and lighting create an impact in this restrained dining room.

Beziers lanterns, £1,134 each, with linen shade, £145, Vaughan 4 Subtle geometric patterns add character without overwhelming a sleek space. Irradiant, Gold, £55 a metre, Harlequin

FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHY P76 (PEONY & SAGE) © PHIL TAYLOR; P80 (GUY GOODFELLOW) © ASTRID TEMPLIER; (NINA CAMPBELL) © RICK POTTER; P81 & P82 (COLEFAX AND FOWLER) © JAN BALDWIN; P85 (JIM THOMPSON) © DAVID CHRISTENSEN; (SUSAN DELISS) © ANDREW D STEEL

2

FernsbyHall tapestry kits are designed by Catriona Hall and produced by Diana Fernsby.

They are quirky and amusing mostly of rotund animals and birds using soft colours. Prices range from ÂŁ55 to ÂŁ85.

Kits have a printed canvas, Appleton wools, a needle a photograph instructions and a canvas bag.

See them at fernsbyhall.com or email at kits@fernsbyhall.com THE ENGLISH HOME 91

Bespoke joinery designed to fit around existing radiators has mesh fitted in the cupboard doors to allow heat to permeate the room.

92 THE ENGLISH HOME

Designer insights

si i rd an

er e

C

omfort, elegance and practicality are all key requirements of a successful sitting room scheme. Interior designer Emma Sims-Hilditch and her team at Sims Hilditch are admired for creating elegant, timeless, modern country schemes for large-scale homes in both town and country.

Here, she shares the decorating insights for creating this beautiful sitting-cum-family room in a sixteenthcentury manor house.

The brief

“This sitting room, which also doubles as a library, is situated in a Grade II listed house dating back to 1555 near Cheltenham in the Cotswolds. The family that lives here comprises a mother, a father, three children and two family dogs, who all use this room. The brief was to create a cosy reading room which could also be used for family time when playing board games or watching a film. The room has a television which we designed to be hidden within the joinery [not shown in the photography]. There is a lovely open fireplace to the left with fenders for additional seating.”

“The key aim when designing this sitting room, which measures 5m x 7.7m, was to make it practical as both a library and a television room, but without the focus on the television. The layout was planned to provide plenty of comfortable seating for the family of five.

The clients wanted lots of lovely joinery for their collection of books. None of the furniture or joinery you see here was existing; all were created to bespoke designs. As a lot of the joinery had to be built around existing radiators, we had to think about how these would be ventilated. We incorporated grills to look like doors to keep the aesthetic but still allow for the practicality of the radiators emitting heat.

“When it came to lighting, we were unable to install downlights due to the existing lathe-and-plaster ceiling, so we introduced plenty of wall and picture lights to give a lovely ambience to the room. I actually think this works really well in a family room or library as it keeps the room atmospheric and cosy.

“The table with chairs by the window is a games table; it was an antique which we had reupholstered with felt in a colour that would sit beautifully against the other tones in the room. It is designed to be a gathering spot for card games, such as bridge.”

Decorative decisions

“This colour palette was intentionally selected to feel a little moodier than the rest of the house, to make it feel extra cosy, especially in the evenings, 94 THE ENGLISH HOME

when the low-level lighting is on. I love to use natural and traditional fabrics, so the sofas are upholstered in 100 per cent linen and 100 per cent wool. I wanted to imbue comfort, so these fabrics are soft and cosy.

“When it came to window treatments, the bay window required a blind as the window frame sat within the joinery, whilst the larger window lent itself to a beautiful pair of curtains. I would always advise using the same fabric for any window treatments to keep continuity.

“Cushions are a wonderful way to inject colour and texture into a room. Here, we played with mustards to complement the muted mauve and grey tones.

These can be simply updated to suit the season.

I always layer cushions and mix fabrics so that a sofa feels eclectic and inviting.”

Emma’s favourite features

“I particularly love the armchairs and artwork. These armchairs are a real favourite of the team at Sims Hilditch and have also been a winner with clients as they are so comfortable. Artwork is always so important, as it brings so much life into the room.” n

ABOVE Emma SimsHilditch has injected colour and texture with cushions that complement the muted palette in this sitting room.

Cushions are a simple way to update a room to suit different seasons.

PHOTOGRAPHS PORTRAIT © DYLAN THOMAS; (SITTING ROOM) © BRENT DARBY; (MOODBOARD) © LIAM JONES

The design process

1 4 5

11

2

6

7 8

3

9

10

Emma Sims-Hilditch’s sitting room moodboard 1 Armchairs, Erskine Plaid Grey, £108 a metre, Colefax and Fowler 2 Curtains, Scarlatti, Slate, £128 a metre, Colefax and Fowler 3 Cushion (not shown), Lansdown, Beige – discontinued, for similar, try Mirella, Natural, £128 a metre, Colefax and Fowler 4 Contrast-piped cushion, Ringabella Plain Linen, £120 a metre, Fermoie 5 Self-piped cushion, Yellow Wicker Linen, £120 a metre, Fermoie 6 Mito velvet, Nebbia, £208 a metre, C&C Milano 7 Fringe (to go with velvet cushion), Plaza Moss (9820), £31.20 a metre, Houlès 8 Sofas, Fife, Taupe, £85, Colefax and Fowler 9 Fender, Montreal Steenbock MTR234 leather, £POA, Whistler Leather 10 Carpet, Willingdon, Vellum £108 a square metre, Jacaranda 11 Walls, French Grey, £45 for 2.5l Absolute Matt Emulsion; joinery, French Grey Dark, £64 for 2.5l Intelligent Eggshell, both Little Greene

ELEGANCE Interior designer Janie Money of Sybil Colefax & John Fowler provides insights into redecorating Weston Park in Shropshire, former seat of the Earls of Bradford

96 THE ENGLISH HOME

The circular Tea Room in the Temple of Diana was defined by the existing wall colours and the original paintings depicting the myth of Diana by ‘Signor Colombo’, thought to be the Swiss artist Giovanni Battista Innocenzo Colombo.

S Janie Money is Associate Director Interior Designer at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler, a division of The Colefax Group.

She joined in 1998, and has led her own interior design team since 2003.

Her enviable project portfolio includes stately homes, an award-winning yacht, and countless private residences throughout Europe and the USA.

98 THE ENGLISH HOME

ituated within 1,000 acres of sweeping parkland, Weston Park was built in the seventeenth century as a family home for the Earls of Bradford. The 28-bedroom property was lived in continually until 1986, when Richard, the 7th Earl, gifted the house, park and gardens and the historic collections to the nation with the support of the National Heritage Memorial Fund. Today, Weston Park is cared for by the Trustees of the Weston Park Foundation, an independent charitable trust which uses all venue proceeds to maintain and conserve the estate.

When areas in the central part of the house needed redecoration, the foundation sought expert help from Janie Money at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler for her invaluable insight and sensitivity to the restoration and redecoration of historically important properties and homes.

She is known for specialisms in antiques, architect-inspired furniture and architectural drawings, having worked for one of the earliest antique dealers in London’s Pimlico Road and before moving into interior design.

Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler was established in the late 1930s by Sibyl Colefax, an influential socialite and interior decorator, and the highly talented artist and decorator John Fowler. Lady Colefax then sold her share of the company to the American heiress Nancy Lancaster in the late 1940s.

Nancy Lancaster, long settled in England, had a reputation amongst those who knew her of having the ‘finest taste of anyone in the world’. The beautiful rooms she and Fowler created together epitomised the country house style for which the company became renowned. Today, the company’s

current generation of designers have over 150 years of experience between them and are as practised in creating 21st-century interiors as they are at working on historic buildings. Here, Janie considers the work at Weston Park.

Please tell us about this beautiful project.

I was initially asked to advise on the repainting and reallocation of furniture in the central parts of Weston Park in February 2005. I then went on to work on the redecoration of the drawing room of the main house, before overseeing the decoration of the Temple of Diana. It is an exceptional Grade I building, originally designed by James Paine circa 1770 as a tea house for guests staying at Weston Park. My brief was to make it appealing for living today.

How long did the project take and what was the design process like? Did you work with an architect?

When I undertook the decoration of the Temple of Diana, likewise when working in the main house, the Trustees 

ABOVE LEFT Stunning views over the ‘Capability’ Brown parkland can be enjoyed from the Orangery in the Temple of Diana.

ABOVE RIGHT Works by artists including Sir Peter Lely inspired the scheme created

by Janie Money in the Drawing Room of Weston Park.

LEFT The Blue Bedroom is one of three bedrooms in the Temple of Diana.

THE ENGLISH HOME 99

ABOVE LEFT The Marble Staircase in the main house features architectural details picked out from the hall.

RIGHT Designed by James Paine circa 1770 for Sir Henry Bridgeman, the three-bedroom Temple of Diana is set over three floors.

100 THE ENGLISH HOME

of Weston Park were totally on board as part of the team, together with the CEO of the Trust, the curator and the project surveyor. The surveyor was key when liaising with the historic bodies involved. The project took five months to complete.

You used well-considered wall colours. Choosing a paint colour can be difficult, can you share advice?

Paint colours have to be carefully chosen as it depends very much on the location of a house and in which direction each room faces, both of which are affected by the light, which in turn determines the colours you choose.

There may also be key elements to go into the room, for example an antique carpet or a specific painting, which may influence one’s choice of colour.

How can one create a grand country house feel on a budget?

The best way is through furniture and there is no time like the present to invest – good George I and George II furniture continues to be incredibly good value.

The furniture of the seventeenth, eighteenth and nineteenth centuries is beautifully designed, has wonderful patina and is made of timbers and materials that are no longer available. It is also worth looking at the pieces that were brought in from India, the Americas and the Far East of this period; they are wonderfully constructed and made from exceptional materials.

ABOVE As the perfect foil for Weston Park’s impressive art collection, the first and second salons are glaze-painted in a specially mixed fine stipple.

LEFT A glaze-painted wall colour designed for the Drawing Room is described as a shade of ‘overblown rose’.

Can you explain how you use furnishings and accessories to transform a space. Where do you start?

The key is what you already have with which to work – for example, the Lely portraits in the drawing room at Weston Park are outstanding and were the inspiration for the room.

The use of the room is considered first. For example, if a room is to be a library, the bookcasing will be a strong element. Good lighting is hugely important. Curtain colour and material, as well as paint colours, are usually an early point of decorative reference, as they are first within one’s sight line. Both antique and modern designed carpets come into play as they literally ground the room whilst significant pieces of furniture – either antique or modern – need to sit well within the space.

What might visitors take from the design of Weston Park?

It is important to respect the integrity of a building – both grander and smaller historical buildings need to be maintained and they will tell you what is needed, not vice versa. For Weston Park, we employed specialists in their fields to maintain the buildings’ integrity. To see the enthusiasm and hard work from each was invaluable. n THE ENGLISH HOME 101

FEATURE KATE FREUD PORTRAIT © MAT COLLISHAW PHOTOGRAPHS (TEMPLE OF DIANA, INTERIORS & EXTERIOR) © DYLAN THOMAS; (WESTON PARK INTERIORS) © SIMON UPTON. ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF COLEFAX AND FOWLER.

What were the greatest challenges you faced?

The main house of Weston Park and the Temple of Diana are both Grade I listed (which means they are deemed to be of exceptional interest and significant national importance) so it was absolutely imperative that we didn’t break into the structure of the buildings in any way.

e SYNERGY Achie the l right

Made with Quarrycast, a finely ground volcanic limestone mixed with resin, this bath has high insulation properties and is warm to the touch.

Cheshire bath, from ÂŁ1,720, Victoria + Albert Baths 102 THE ENGLISH HOME

oo ab nol

nesses ng the design

W

hen planning a new bathroom, combining some of the latest innovations with a timeless look can be an exciting challenge. The key to success lies in balancing elements such as new materials, developments in design and advances in technology with a classic, enduring finish that leaves the bathroom feeling warm and welcoming.

MATERIAL MATTERS Shower trays in materials such as resin, quartz and solid surfaces are sturdy, durable and warm to the touch, are available in a wide choice of colours and finishes – many of which are also recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly option. Look for names such as Durat, which is made of recycled post-industrial plastics, as well as Corian, HI-MACS (a composition of acrylic, minerals and natural pigments) and Silestone. All these materials can be used to create shower trays without joins, minimising the harbouring of dirt and bacteria.

Basins in a solid surface material are also becoming more popular, with concrete set to be the ‘next big thing’ according to bathroom experts at companies such as Bert & May. Ideal for enhancing a traditional room scheme, these raw, textural designs bring a natural essence into the bathroom and can be found in a variety of shades and finishes.

For baths, many of the latest designs are manufactured from enamelled steel as it is hygienic, resistant to scratches, impacts and abrasion and can be formed with an anti-slip coating. Acrylic tubs come with insulating properties and a warm surface finish, which help water retain its temperature for longer, whilst copper, which is highly strong and malleable, can be selected in a polished, brushed or beaten finish.

Cast iron, meanwhile, can be painted on the exterior in any colour to suit existing decor, with an anti-slip base for safety. “Bathrooms now reflect the style of the entire house,” confirms Tom Burke, product development manager at Victoria + Albert Baths, “and painted baths, basins and statement tiles all offer the chance to create a unique, design-led space.”

FULL STEAM AHEAD Steam rooms are becoming more popular, as they offer benefits for both physical and emotional well-being with the opportunity to relax, recharge and unwind in all-in-one cabins and cubicles that can be fully customised to suit individual needs. There are a multitude of options available such as integrated seating, monsoon shower systems, hydrotherapy massage jets, essential oil aromas, and even 

ABOVE The New Classic collection by Marcel Wanders uses Laufen’s thin-wall ceramic material.

The New Classic vanity washbasin (813853), £954; washbasin frame, £1,699; mirror with LED ambient light, £1,006, all Laufen LEFT Make a statement with a chandelier-style light, IP44 rated for use in the bathroom.

Triedro pendant light, from £1,495, Christopher Wray

ABOVE This shower from Bristan will add a luxurious touch as well as the latest thermostatic technology to maintain water temperature to prevent freezing or scalding, regardless of water being used elsewhere in the home.

Descent shower pack with shower valve, 250mm fixed head shower rose, ceiling arm and adjustable shower kit, £529, Bristan

chromotherapy lighting. “The steam box has come a long way since the 1980s, when early versions started to enter the market,” says Lorna Wainwright of the Alchemy Design Award programme. “In those days a white acrylic cabin with all the bells and whistles was regarded as the height of sophistication, but trends towards minimalism and a more ‘professional spa’ look have spurred on the introduction of less visible technologies, sleeker materials and different frame finishes. The surge in popularity for spa days and spa holidays, particularly in the last decade, has led to homeowners dreaming of having their very own home-hammam with designs that reflect not only their individual tastes and the style of their property, but also the realities of everyday use and maintenance” SHOWERS & TAPS For showers, the latest innovations include remotecontrol digital showering, memory settings that can be personalised for each family member and pause functions, which can be handy for hair washing.

104 THE ENGLISH HOME

Shower spray patterns can even be adjusted using wireless remote operation for the ultimate in comfort and convenience.

Taps are all about hands-free hygienic solutions that use infrared technology to save water at the same time. Ideal for future-proofing the bathroom, these state-of-the-art designs prevent wasting water and are easy to use for all ages and abilities. “Ignited by the introduction of smart water meters, homeowners are more aware of their water consumption than ever,” explains Elina Enqvist-Twomey, category manager at Grohe. “Infrared taps are beginning to gain traction with the eco-conscious, helping to reduce consumption by only dispensing water when the sensor is activated, thus only using water when it is needed and reducing overall usage.”

For shower panels, nanotechnology allows for a glass coating that turns the shower into a self-cleaning unit.

The special coating is applied in the factory and lasts for up to 10 years. Any mineral deposits simply slide away, making it the perfect choice for hard-water areas. 

A freestanding bath works wonderfully with a floorstanding bath mixer and adds a hint of grandeur in this striking copper-toned finish.

Grandera single-lever floor-mounted bath mixer in Polished Warm Sunset, ÂŁ2,925, Grohe

ABOVE Waterproof wallpaper can be installed directly into the shower as well as on top of existing wall surfaces.

The Wet System collection by Wall & Deco’, from £171.60 a square metre. The Cristallino design shown is available exclusively at West One Bathrooms RIGHT These rectangular bricks can be laid in various patterns on walls – horizontal, vertical or diagonal – and are easily cut to create more complex patterns.

Terra Firma tiles, £319.87 a square metre, Balineum

LIGHT SHOW Sensor technology is not only used in taps, but is also prevalent in bathroom lighting with motion sensor wall lights, touch sensor LED lighting mirrors, and ‘in feature’ lighting in the form of LED strip lights and plinth spots beneath the bath.

They work via motion detectors that detect infrared waves – heat waves that radiate from movement – which automatically activates the light and turns it on. As well as offering a convenient solution, they are also energy efficient as the lights turn themselves off after the bathroom is left unoccupied for a certain amount of time.

Another option and one that is ideal for adding instant impact and a touch of decadence is the manufacture of chandelier-style lights suitable for bathroom use. “We have recently seen the introduction of IP44-rated chandeliers,” says Chris Jordon, managing director at Christopher Wray, “which allows homeowners to make a statement in the bathroom.” The IP44 rating indicates lights are designed for use in bathrooms and other environments where water spray is a risk.

WASH & GO Functioning as both a toilet and a bidet, shower toilets (as they are known) are rapidly becoming one of the most innovative, high-tech and increasingly desirable 

106 THE ENGLISH HOME

This elegant bathroom design by Studio Milne shows how traditional and contemporary elements combine to create a soothing yet pared-back scheme.

Copper bateau bath with nickel interior, from ÂŁ6,000, Catchpole & Rye

FEATURE HAYLEY GILBERT PHOTOGRAPHS P102 © STEPHEN JULLIARD; P103 (LAUFEN) © OLIVER HELBIG

elements of a new scheme. Whilst not a glamorous part of bathroom design, these all-in-one units have several innovative features to add comfort to everyday life, including automatic seat opening, heatable seats, adjustable shower flows, hot-air dryers and odour extractors.

One model to consider is the SensoWash Starck from Duravit, which conceals all the technology – including a descaling function and an illuminated rim for night-time use – within its ceramic body and can be operated via remote control or an app.

AUDIO ELEMENTS & UNDERFLOOR HEATING Consider installing integrated audio for seamless sound whilst bathing or showering. Smart solutions include wireless speakers fitted into the ceiling, and Bluetooth mirrors and showerheads which can be paired with smartphones or tablets.

Those who wish to catch up on a favourite television programme whilst taking a bath should look to waterproof televisions – some of which transform into mirrors when not in use. For a complete audio visual technology solution, seek advice from the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA). Visit cedia.org for details.

Underfloor heating in a bathroom is an investment worth making, especially in a bathroom with natural stone flooring that would otherwise be cool underfoot.

If installing in a period property “The most important aspect of designing a classic bathroom is to firstly respect the architecture and fabric of the building,” says Simon Taylor, managing director of Simon Taylor Furniture, “and to ensure that any high-tech aspects will enhance the design and functionality of the room without looking out of place. Where it is possible to install, we always recommend underfloor heating as the heat is uniform and can be timed in advance to ensure the room is warm when entering. Wi-Fi enabled versions can also be controlled using a smartphone app.” n 108 THE ENGLISH HOME

TOP LEFT This concrete basin is handmade in Yorkshire.

Round concrete basin, £767.81, Bert & May TOP RIGHT The shower screen by Mistley has Clearshield applied to protect the glass from hard water.

Bespoke projects from £20,000, Simon Taylor Furniture ABOVE Featuring an anti-slip base, this slipper bath is perfect for all ages.

Carmen cast-iron slipper bath, £2,383; base unit, £1,483, Roca RIGHT This nickel-plated copper bath retains heat well, making it an energy efficient option.

Nickel bateau bath, £5,314.80, William Holland

HURLINGHAM The Bath Company

www.hurlinghambaths.co.uk T: 01400 263310 E: sales@hurlinghambaths.co.uk

THE ENGLISH HOME INSURANCE OFFER

A beautiful home…

DESERVES PROPER PROTECTION Having spent precious time creating your beautiful home, it is important to ensure that you have the right insurance cover in place to safeguard your house, valuables and lifestyle

Now, as a reader of The English Home, you can benefit from special rates on home and contents cover placed through leading insurance advisers Smith Greenfield.

This carefully researched insurance opportunity has been specially created for high net worth individuals and is available to homeowners whose properties are valued at over £250,000

or whose home contents is worth more than £75,000.

Special benefits can include: • Warranty-free policies – your property is still covered even if you fail to set your alarm

It comes with many benefits that standard high-street policies do not offer, and readers of The English Home will access products only available through expert independent advisers.

• The cost of alternative accommodation

Equally importantly, claims will be settled promptly and without fuss.

• Family travel insurance, including

if your home becomes uninhabitable

• Cover for garden furniture, statues and equipment

for children travelling on their own

For a free quote or more information: Call: 020 8603 3730 Visit: www.smithgreenfield.co.uk

QUINTESSENTIALLY

Inspiration for seasonal pastimes and making the most of life at home starts here

SMART SOLUTIONS

FEATURE EVE MIDDLETON PHOTOGRAPH EMMA CROMAN

Ease the passage into spring by creating an organised home. Finding a rightful and proper place to keep oft-used objects within easy reach – be they feather dusters for spring cleaning, hand-woven wicker baskets bearing neatly folded blankets or freshly chopped kindling – makes the most prosaic of functions more of a pleasure. To further the enjoyment of using the space, laying a hardwearing, attractive new floor is an effective way to refresh a utility room.

Parquet in Stone, £46.80 a square metre, Neisha Crosland at Harvey Maria

THE ENGLISH HOME 111

F

ment

Co wh

t home a simple and

Creative minds

T

he month of February is a natural pre-cursor to spring, inviting the chance to refresh the home. Despite days still being short, the urge to look ahead to sunnier times prevails, with attention turning towards undertaking creative endeavours and ways to revitalise interiors.

Small-scale projects – whether creating a home-crafted object, learning a new design skill, or simply adding a lick of paint – benefit both home and mind, offering personal and aesthetic rewards.

Courses to consider Midlands Art Centre Arts complex in Birmingham covering numerous creative areas. macbirmingham.co.uk New Brewery Arts Cirencester centre encompassing yearround courses and workshops. newbreweryarts.org.uk Flora Arbuthnott Workshops in Devon on natural dyeing, growing and foraging for colour, weaving and more. floraarbuthnott.com Rapture & Wright Screen-print workshops from Cotswolds-based hand-printed fabric and wallpaper specialist. raptureandwright.co.uk

112 THE ENGLISH HOME

Splash of colour

Picking up a paintbrush is an easy and satisfying way to make changes – there is a certain soothing quality to applying a new colour in rhythmic brushstrokes.

Beginning with surface areas such as shelving or kitchen units can reap dividends, says Neil Stafferton, design manager at British Standard Cupboards: “There are no set rules when it comes to painting your cupboards, but there are ways to create different looks in the space,” he counsels. “You might choose a main colour for the exterior and add a complementary colour on the inside or highlight wall cupboards in a lighter accent colour to give the illusion of space”.

Choosing oil- or water-based paint is a matter of personal preference. Stafferton suggests either Little Greene oil-based eggshell “for its hardiness over time”, or Farrow & Ball’s water-based eggshell for those new to using paint. “It’s more userfriendly and just as hard-wearing,” he says.

Adding colour also lifts other areas of the home. Painting the inside of a bookcase, hall cupboard or wardrobe in a bold hue can give a flash of unexpected colour when opened. Try paintinganddecoratingassociation.co.uk for specialist resources.

Small-scale changes

Paint expert Annie Sloan suggests breathing new life into accessories with decorative paint finishes. “Take a look around your home and think creatively about how to use what you already have,” she says, suggesting that “gold leaf and gilding waxes can be applied to candleholders, trays and vases” to add interest to objects already in use in areas such as a drinks station.

Beyond upcycling, making home accessories and adding design touches is an equally satisfying adventure. The return of The Great Pottery Throw Down on More4 reminds us of the rewards of crafting ceramics, whilst the advent of new shoots pushing through February soil turns thoughts to plant-based dyes and inks in fabric- and paper-based projects.

Enjoying a course or workshop or visiting a craft fair can provide fascinating insights. The Crafts Council is a good resource (craftscouncil.org.uk) for finding upcoming events such as Collect: The International Art Fair for Modern Craft and Design in London (27 February to 1 March) or Craft Festival, Cheltenham (20–22 March, craftfestival.co.uk) both of which offer plentiful inspiration.

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP Learn hand-printing techniques in Gloucestershire at Rapture & Wright, whose enchanting screen-printed fabric and wallpaper is shown here.

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT A creative course in action at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester.

THIS PAGE Adding accent colours to areas such as shelving, cupboards, or even chairs can breathe new life into the home.

Wall, Antoinette, £39.95 for 2.5l Wall Paint; cupboards in a mix of Aubusson Blue and Emperor’s Silk, £19.95 for 1l Chalk Paint; shelves (from top): Old White, Antoinette, Scandinavian Pink, £19.95 for 1l Chalk Paint; chairs (from back): Scandinavian Pink and Paloma, £19.95 for 1l, Chalk Paints, all Annie Sloan

In an English kitchen

T

he shortest month of the year heralds opportunities to relish nurturing foods that revive body and soul. Hardy root vegetables, leafy greens and bright citrus fruits come to the fore in dishes that gently restore balance whilst imparting fresh tastes to tempt the palate. The 14th marks Valentine’s Day, celebrated with sweet treats, delightful dinners and other gifts besides, whilst the 25th this year sees Shrove Tuesday marked in the calendar as the final day before Lent, when tradition dictates that pancakes are consumed as a reminder of rich foods traditionally given up for the coming weeks. For those not eschewing indulgences, cocoa and its associated forms are the focus of Fairtrade Fortnight this month (24 February to 8 March, fairtrade.org.uk/fortnight) – the ‘She Deserves Fairtrade’ campaign concentrates on female cocoa farmers, and further emphasises how the simple act of purchasing a Fairtrade product can dramatically change someone’s life for the better.

Seasonal ingredients FRUIT & VEGETABLES Blood oranges Carrots Chicory Jerusalem artichokes Mizuna Peppers Purple kale Rhubarb Spinach

FROM LAND & SEA Chicken Cod John Dory Lamb Sea salmon

LEFT Blood oranges add fresh flavour and vibrant colour to February dishes (see right for inspiration).

BELOW Stew stems of rhubarb with a little sugar for a delicious treat.

Winter Salad of Red Leaves, Mackerel and Orange Serves 4 250g red cabbage, finely shredded 2 heads of red chicory, roughly chopped 1 large carrot, preferably purple, julienned 2 celery sticks (plus centre leaves), sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced ½ tsp caster (superfine) sugar 1 tsp white wine vinegar 1 blood orange 400g smoked mackerel 2 tbsp capers, rinsed 1 small bunch of dill, finely chopped 1 small bunch of mint leaves, finely chopped A few sprigs of tarragon, finely chopped A handful of baby beetroot leaves A few purple kale leaves, destemmed and massaged A few horseradish, mustard green or mitzuna leaves (optional) Sea salt For the dressing 1 heaped tbsp crème fraîche 2 tsp wholegrain mustard 1 tbsp sherry vinegar 1 tbsp hazelnut or walnut oil Orange juice from the blood orange Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper •

Put the red cabbage, chicory, carrot, celery and red onion into a large colander and sprinkle with a teaspoon of sea salt, the sugar and the vinegar. Mix thoroughly and set the colander over a bowl or stand in the sink. Cover with a tea towel and leave to stand for an hour.

• Transfer the vegetables to a serving bowl. Prepare the orange by topping and tailing it, cutting away the skin and outer membrane, then dicing the remaining flesh, flicking out any seeds or large pieces of pith. Squeeze juice from the discarded skin into a small bowl.

• Make the dressing by adding the crème fraîche, wholegrain mustard, sherry vinegar and oil to the orange juice. Season with salt and pepper and whisk together.

• Pour the dressing over the salad, then add the mackerel, capers and orange. Fold over gently to combine everything, then add the herbs and the celery leaves. Fold over once more.

• Serve on a bed of the remaining leaves.

Taken from Leaf: Lettuce, Greens, Herbs, Weeds

by Catherine Phipps (photography Mowie Kay) Quadrille, £25

114 THE ENGLISH HOME

The peppery punch of this salad pairs well with citrus fruits to cut through the oily fish – try grapefruit for a zesty alternative to blood orange.

In an English garden Clare Foggett, editor of our sister title The English Garden, on how to maximise enjoyment in the garden this month

F

ebruary coincides with the emergence of swathes of pristine white snowdrops that lift the heart with the promise of spring – gardens of note to visit for an uplifting wintry walk include Rode Hall in Cheshire, where a collection of hundreds of different varieties adorn a stately Humphry Repton landscape. Colesbourne Park’s historic snowdrop collection in Gloucestershire dates from the nineteenth century, when the first bulbs were planted by Henry John Elwes, noted galanthophile (snowdrop lover) and the man who discovered the glorious snowdrop species Galanthus elwesii.

For the sweetest and most desirable winter scent, daphnes are tricky to beat. ‘Jacqueline Postill’ is an excellent variety to try, with a multitude of pale pink, four-petalled flowers. Alongside snowdrops, look out for winter aconites, Eranthis hyemalis, with cheerful yellow flowers, as well as slender mauve flowers of Crocus tommasinianus, another February blooming bulb. Prunus x subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ has delicate blossom that blooms on and off during the winter, making this tree is an excellent choice for smaller gardens.

Kew Orchid Festival Kew Gardens has revealed the theme for 2020’s Orchid Festival: Indonesia. This region boasts diverse flora – the island of Sumatra is the only place the infamously smelly Titan arum grows in the wild – and at least 4,000 species of orchid. Kew’s festival will once again transform the Princess of Wales Conservatory into a plant-filled paradise, evoking the sights and sounds of Indonesia and its vibrant culture.

8 February to 8 March; kew.org

LEFT Snowdrops at Rode Hall, Cheshire.

RIGHT Pale pink Daphne in bloom.

BELOW LEFT Vivid purple crocus flowers spring to life in February.

Time to plant IN THE GREENHOUSE Gradually start watering over-wintering fuchsias to coax them back into growth. The tubers of houseplants such as gloxinia, begonia and achimenes can be started off this month, in pots of compost.

OUTDOORS/IN THE BORDER Carry out February’s wisteria pruning – the long whippy stems should now be pruned back to just two or three buds to create stumpy flowering ‘spurs’. Cut back deciduous grasses such as Deschampsia and Calamagrostis before their new growth starts to emerge in early spring. Take root 116 THE ENGLISH HOME

cuttings of perennials such as oriental poppies, acanthus, phlox and Japanese anemones as an easy way to increase stocks.

FRUIT & VEGETABLES Some vegetables can be started off under glass in February, ready for planting out later in spring. Try sowing lettuces, broad beans, Swiss chard and perpetual spinach, and plant onion and shallot sets into modules now. Order seed potatoes before suppliers run out of the most prized varieties. First earlies, such as ‘Rocket’ and ‘Swift’, can also be placed in a light, frost-free place to ‘chit’ (produce shoots) now. n

FEATURE EVE MIDDLETON PHOTOGRAPHS P112 (NEW BREWERY ARTS) © MAX MCCLURE; P114 (BLOOD ORANGES) © LIDANTE/SHUTTERSTOCK; (RHUBARB) © ANNA SHEPULOVA/SHUTTERSTOCK; P116 © RBG KEW/JEFF EDEN; (RODE HALL) © MERRY ATKINSON; (DAPHNE) © ANDREW FLETCHER/SHUTTERSTOCK; (CROCUS) © OLE SCHOENER/SHUTTERSTOCK; P117 © IUK CITY IMAGES (WWW.UKCITYIMAGES.COM).

In bloom

Snowdrops were introduced to Rode Hall’s gardens in 1833. Now, there are over 70 different varieties of snowdrops to be seen in the magnificent setting of Rode Hall’s Humphry Repton landscape.

H fted FOR THE GARDEN Celebrate the beauty of traditional English crafts that enrich our outside space and help heritage skills thrive FEATURE JILL MORGAN

118 THE ENGLISH HOME

A well-proportioned swing bench makes the perfect place for contemplation as well as a feature for the garden. Made from solid oak, it will gently silver over time.

Three Seater Oak Pergola & Tranquillity Curve Back Swing Seat, ÂŁ6,142, Sitting Spiritually

ABOVE Cornish slate focal water feature.

Slate Watersphere, from £2,400, Jeremy Hastings OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT A bespoke forged gate creates a dramatic entrance. £POA, Black Forge Art Use sweet chestnut for features that last.

Green Sweet Chestnut Arch, from £320; Minorcan Gate, from £300, both Green Man Woodcrafts Add structure to borders with obelisks.

Painted Obelisk, from £369, The Wooden Garden Obelisk Company

B

orn out of necessity and developed over centuries, traditional English crafts encompass a plethora of skills that are still relevant today. Crafts such as fine furniture making, weaving hazel hurdles for the garden, throwing clay pots and shaping white-hot metal, which were once everyday and highly valued skills, are thankfully enjoying a resurgence.

Whether it is a subconscious reaction to today’s throwaway culture or a desire to reconnect with a sense of being as a valued individual, many homeowners are seeking out ways to surround themselves with considered and thoughtfully made pieces. Gardens have long been spaces to indulge in individual taste as well as a chance to impress visitors, so it is no surprise that many of these skills are being embraced for style outdoors.

Blacksmith skills, long supported by farmers to maintain their machinery, can now be spotted in the design of imaginative garden railings, gates and pergolas, as Sussex-based blacksmith James Price explains. “Gardens offer a fantastic opportunity for site-specific metalwork. The expressive nature of forged steel really enriches our outdoor spaces and can help to create a truly unique feature in any design.”

120 THE ENGLISH HOME

HANDMADE WITH PRIDE Whilst there is something comforting about being surrounded by pieces that are aesthetically pleasing, and useful too – as identified by William Morris – today there is a deeper desire for items with a handcrafted link. Discerning consumers are striving to discover individual makers and their signature designs as a way of sharing common values and a reassurance of what it is to be human.

Gaze Burvill, which makes quality oak outdoor furniture in Hampshire, is a company that takes great pride in its team. “Our furniture is finished to the highest possible quality,” says company founder Simon Burvill. “Our craftsmen put their own unique mark on every finished piece and take satisfaction in the knowledge that it will give lasting pleasure to its owner for years to come.” Other makers include Tom Raffield – a designer of home and garden pieces in steambent timber – who has a similar ethos and is steadily becoming a sought-after name.

The time taken to create a single hand-thrown pot, or to hone the skills and knowledge required, is something to marvel at, but it also conveys a sense mindfulness and core values shared between maker and owner. Revered craftspeople such as Jim Keeling,

The hands-on approach

Many art institutions and individual makers offer courses ranging from an afternoon in a workshop to week-long residential getaways. A chance to learn skills direct from the maker and to put creative ideas into action, they also enable would-be creators to try their hand before investing in any costly equipment and materials. Local art colleges offer advice on a wide variety of short- and long-term learning opportunities, and many public gardens offer courses too.

Craft Courses is a comprehensive online resource listing courses across the country in a wide variety of skills. craftcourses.com • West Dean College of Arts & Conservation in West Sussex holds around 800 short courses hosted in its beautiful nineteenth-century flint mansion in the South Downs. Tel 01243 818210; westdean.org.uk • The Craft Revolution at Dartington in Devon has a wide programme of evening and weekend maker courses. Tel 01803 847221; dartington.org • AW Artist Blacksmith holds regular blacksmithing day courses in Yorkshire and the North East. Tel 07876 744805; awartistblacksmiths.co.uk • The Dry Stone Walling Association organises two-day weekend workshops for beginners. Tel 01539 567953; dswa.org.uk • The Weald & Downland Living Museum near Chichester in Sussex has a comprehensive programme of traditional rural trades and craft courses.

Tel 01243 811021; wealddown.co.uk •

Traditional methods are used at the Cotswold-based Whichford Pottery

THE ENGLISH HOME 121

The

Chester

Decorative, Antiques & Art Fair Chester Racecourse, New Crane Street, Chester CH1 2LY

7th - 9th February 2020 Fri. - Sun. | 11am - 5pm

Complimentary Tickets: www.cooperevents.com Admission £5.00 | Enq. 01278 784912

SLATE WATER FEATURE SPECIALIST 07770885130 JHASTINGS.CO.UK

Handcrafted for you in Nottinghamshire

The Parisienne Bed

FREE DELIVERY & INSTALLATION | 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Request your free brochure and wood samples 01777 869 669 | revivalbeds.co.uk

122 THE ENGLISH HOME

who established the highly regarded Whichford Pottery in 1976, support ‘rediscovering old skills and keeping alive a communal way of working’.

MATERIAL VALUE With today’s focus on sustainability, it is no surprise that consumers are increasingly aware and more appreciative of objects that are made from natural, locally sourced materials. For skilled craftspeople, intimately knowing the unique characteristics of their chosen material, plus where and how it is sourced, is a key part of the creative process. This is something that has influenced the work of Jeremy Hastings, a sculptor and designer of water features who has long prized his local resources. “All the slate I work with is Cornish – often from Trevillet Quarry, but also from Delabole Quarry,” he says. “These quarries may only be a few miles apart, but the slate has different characteristics; a natural grey slate or a mix of more rustic brown and grey-coloured slate.”

Besides heritage, it is also the sensory qualities of a material that can prove a draw for both maker and admirer. Whether it is the smooth grain of oak, the flexibility of cleaved sweet chestnut or the subtle colouring of willow withies (a tough, flexible branch used for woven panels and basketry), all can be highlighted in the design and the placement of the final piece. Martin Young, founder of Sitting Spiritually, recalls this experience when first viewing a design by collaborator Simon Thomas Pirie. “The scorching on the Yakisugi Swing Bench gives the oak incredible deep texture and a colour which a stain or paint just can’t recreate. Everyone who sees it wants to run their hand along it.”  ABOVE This hazel arch is full of rural charm. Created from full- and half-split hazel, it is best set on bricks above soil level.

Hazel Arch (3ft wide), from £300, in a garden by Claudia de Yong Designs RIGHT Warm tones coupled with intricate detailing and an inviting shape make this garden seat a worthy centrepiece.

Biddenham Curved Seat, from £3,543 for a two-seat design, Andrew Crace

THE ENGLISH HOME 123

SEEK INSPIRATION There are plenty of different sources for discovering high quality English craftsmanship. A good starting point is The Guild of Master Craftsmen website where accredited members are listed, including blacksmiths, joiners, stone workers and thatchers.

Regional sculpture parks feature a wide range of craft work in different media, and change their displays regularly. They offer a list of artists and can facilitate introductions and commissions. Try the new Devon Sculpture Park near Exeter, or visit one of the RHS spring shows at Cardiff and Malvern in April and May 2020. The Burngate Stone Carving centre on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset has an exhibition centre by a range of artists, and offers courses as well.

PERSONAL TREASURES Commissioning craftwork is an experience to be cherished. Research local makers and ask to see examples of their work, both through photographs and, if possible, first-hand. Talk to the makers direct and discuss hopes, preferred materials and the outdoor setting for which the piece is destined. Be prepared to be open-minded, as their experience can often result in a more imaginative piece or chosen location for the finished item.

Ensure that the maker conducts a site visit to discuss ideas and assess access, outlines the timings involved, such as how long the project and installation will take, and identifies the total cost and any payment stages.

They may require a deposit if it is a large task. It is also important to ask for care and maintenance advice once the work is complete. n

124 THE ENGLISH HOME

FEATURE JILL MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHS P124 (FORAS) © PAUL TIBBS

ABOVE Handmade clay tiles top an oak-framed gazebo. £POA, Border Oak RIGHT An engraved sandstone birdbath adds a personal touch.

Acorn Shark Sandstone Birdbath, £210 (bowl only, lettering extra), Foras BELOW Revel in paving that bears all the marks of its handmade heritage.

Bricks from York Handmade Brick Company

COMING NEXT MONTH

MARCH EDITION Spring design projects Kitchen Focus: inspiring ideas & new looks Where to spend & where to save Conservatories & hallways Four beautiful English homes

ON SALE 5 FEBRUARY theenglishhome.co.uk

Follow us on Twitter @englishhometeam Pinterest at pinterest.com/theenglishhome Facebook at facebook.com@theenglishhome Instagram at instagram.com@englishhomemag

Andrew Crace High Quality Traditional, Contemporary and Bespoke Garden Furniture made from Iroko or Oak Genuine British Products

Crafted and Made in the UK

Andrew Crace, 32 Bourne Lane, Much Hadham, Hertfordshire SG10 6ER, UK. Tel 01279 842685 www.andrewcrace.com

To advertise call +44 (0) 207 349 3700 or email: info@chelseamagazines.com

e tory

SHUTTERS Tel: 02392 597967 AMERICAN SHUTTERS LTD www.americanshutters.co.uk

Renowned for bespoke, top quality products, service and attention to detail

PETS Parking your barker on a BARKA PARKA since 1979 Solid Tulipwood shutters painted any colour free of charge / any shape / Solid Shaker, Edwardian / Georgian / Louvered / Waterproof shutters / hardwood venetians / blackout blinds / Free site survey / in-house carpenters. 25 years experience.

e

-mad

rt an o f m b o Pet ,C bility a r u D and eds h

itain

r eat B in Gr

le d Sty

Call or email us today with your dimensions for an estimate:

Tel: 02392 597967 Email: sales@americanshutters.co.uk

WWW.BARKAPARKA.COM

To advertise in the English Home please call +44 (0) 20 7349 3700 or email: info@chelseamagazines.com GIFTS

ANTIQUES

Practical Storage

Beautiful hand made jewellery books that hold earrings, necklaces or rings.

Designed to sit elegantly on top of a dressing table or easily pop into a suitcase for travelling.

To see our full range, large palette of colours available and for details of stockists visit our website. www.littleshopof.co.uk 020 3371 1522

For more information visit us at www.theenglishhome.co.uk When calling the UK from North America, dial the country code ‘011 44’ and drop the first ‘0’ in the UK phone number

GARDEN OBELISKS

FURNISHINGS

The Wooden Garden Obelisk Company

THE HANDMADE SOFA COMPANY

Accoya Obelisks and Planters made to order bespoke sizes and painted any colour

All of our furniture is hand built to order in the UK using the finest quality fabrics and leathers. Choose from an extensive range of standard contemporary and traditional models, including different Chesterfield styles and chaise longues.

All models can be made-to-measure to suit individual requirements using one of the UK’s widest choice of leather and fabric. All standard furniture is normally delivered to UK mainland within 4-8 weeks from order time.

TEL: 01258 841414

www.handmadesofacompany.co.uk

woodengardenobelisk.co.uk

The Handmade Sofa Company, Unit 4, Manor Farm Business Centre, Gussage St Michael, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5HT.

Tel 01728 684433

HOLIDAYS

Kailani is the award winning 5 star luxury wide beam Hotel Boat cruising Southern England’s Waterways.

Recognising the growing needs of discerning travellers seeking peace and relaxation whilst cruising first class, Kailani offers spacious cabins, private en-suite bathrooms and luxurious fittings throughout.

All cruises are on full board basis with meals freshly prepared.

Cruising Routes include the Grand Union and Kennet and Avon Canals, River Lee, River Wey and the River Thames.

Kailani is the only Hotel Boat licensed to cruise the full length of the Thames, including the tidal stretch through the heart of London.

Choose a 3 – 8 night cruise from our itinerary along Southern England’s spectacular waterways.

Kailani has received a 5 star rating since 2014 and Visit England Gold Award for the last two years.

Sit back, relax and watch the world go by or help at locks if you wish.

Tel: +44 (0)7447 051558 • www.hotelboatkailani.com For more information visit us at www.theenglishhome.co.uk When calling the UK from North America, dial the country code ‘011 44’ and drop the first ‘0’ in the UK phone number

HARDWARE AND IRONMONGERY

ANTIQUES

Hingstons Of Wilton Purveyors of Antiques and decorative items (est.1976)

B A S ED IN T H E BE AUT IFU L S H R O PSH I R E HI L L S IN TH E TOW N O F CH U RC H ST R E T T O N W E ARE A PERIO D H A RDWA R E A N D T RA DI TI ONA L IRONMON GERY CO M PA N Y S U PPLY ING T H E PUBL IC AN D T R A DE .

WE C OV E R ALL T Y P E S OF B LAC KSM I T H I NG , STA I NE D GLAS S A N D WOODWOR K K E E P I N G T H E O LD T RA D I T IO N S ALI V E , AL O NG W I T H OU R OW N U N IQU E DE SIG N S .

T: 01722 742263 E: nick@hingstons-antiques.co.uk THE DOO R KN O C KE R COM PA N Y H IGH S TRE E T , CH U RCH S T R E T T O N , S H RO P S H I RE WW W.TH E D OOR KN OC KERCOM PA N Y. CO , U K

The Old Bell House, 2 Shaftesbury Road, Wilton, Salisbury, SP20DR

www.hingstons-antiques.co.uk

BEDS The First Carbon Neutral Iron Bed Maker

Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co.

Hand made in Norfolk. Guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Winter Sale NOW ON 01485 542516 view our full range at

www.wroughtironandbrassbed.co.uk For more information visit us at www.theenglishhome.co.uk When calling the UK from North America, dial the country code ‘011 44’ and drop the first ‘0’ in the UK phone number

design MY

HERO

Interior designer Nina Campbell on interiors master John Fowler

130 THE ENGLISH HOME

ABOVE John Fowler, already a successful designer, was invited

by Sibyl Colefax to join forces in 1938.

RIGHT Having bought an eighteenthcentury Hunting Lodge in Hampshire in 1947, John Fowler decorated it in his inimitable relaxed, practical style.

BELOW A New York penthouse study designed by Nina Campbell. Note the throw, which makes the room appear less ‘done’.

ABOVE Elegant details abound in this soft blue and zesty green New York penthouse bedroom designed by Nina Campbell.

Note the side table on which to set a drink and the thoughtfully placed reading light.

FEATURE JUDITH WILSON PHOTOGRAPHS JOHN FOWLER PORTRAIT AND WATERCOLOUR, BOTH COURTESY OF COLEFAX AND FOWLER – WATERCOLOUR BY SEREBRIAKOFF OF THE SITTING ROOM IN JOHN FOWLER’S HUNTING LODGE ©STANLEY FALCONER/COLEFAX AND FOWLER; NINA CAMPBELL PORTRAIT AND ROOM SHOTS, ALL FROM NINA CAMPBELL INTERIOR DESIGN: ELEGANCE & EASE, PUBLISHED BY RIZZOLI

“I

met John Fowler when I was 19, after I joined Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler in the 1960s. He was Head Decorator: I’d take notes and act as his bag carrier. During those formative three years, I accompanied him to grand locations, including the Italian Embassy, Grosvenor Square. He always insisted a room should speak to you rather than look too ‘done’. He taught me to leave space for later decorative elements – for example, a cushion in a wonderful colour, to give the sense a room had evolved. He was very generous with his knowledge.

He’d lived through the Second World War and he taught me not to waste fabric.

Recently, I redesigned a house in the USA: instead of throwing out the client’s old Fortuny silk curtains, we turned them back-to-front and added a simple pelmet so they look brand new.

Everyone held John in great respect, but he was also charismatic and fun. After I requested a day off to attend a 21st birthday ball at Chatsworth House, he enquired what I’d be wearing whilst simultaneously insisting I admire the historic furniture in between dances – it was good advice!

I left to set up my own business with his blessing, and I’ve stayed true to his guiding principle: a room must be practical.

This means a table for a drink or book next to an armchair and bedside tables the correct height. A room should also be supremely comfortable.

Most importantly, John taught me to ‘absorb’ an interior before designing it. On a new project, I tap into my sensory reactions so that my primary focus is on the ethos in a room, not just visual impact. He was an excellent teacher. Even today, I’ll catch myself thinking – would he be proud of me?” n

CHADDER AND CO.

www.chadder.com

LUXURY BATHROOM COLLECTION

Tel : +44 (0 ) 1342 823243

@chadderandco