MORE INSPIRATIONAL HOMES THAN ANY OTHER MAGAZINE
APRIL 2020 £4.70 | US $9.99, AUS $10.20, NZ $13
HOMES SMART IDEAS
Stylish solutions to let the spring light in HOW TO ADD CHARACTER
with colour, collectables and charm
An ancient barn turned into a modern masterpiece
KITCHEN UPDATES Creating space, storage and sophistication
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UNSAME YOUR HOM Find the paint that reflects you at craigandrose.co
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H I D D E N T R E A S U R E A medieval barn
in Oxfordshire is now a stunning home with modern touches and plenty of cosy areas R U S T I C R E V I VA L How an East Sussex farmhouse won the hearts of a London family S E E K I N G S A N C T U A R Y A Yorkshire mill house with lots of potential provided an opportunity to create the perfect retreat F U L L O F S U R P R I S E S Punchy colours and playful patterns are among the unexpected delights in this period cottage in Surrey S I M P LY I D Y L L I C This couple found the peace and quiet they were craving when they
COVER STORY
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moved into a Hertfordshire farmhouse T H E L O N G V I E W A second viewing dispelled initial doubts, convincing one couple that a neglected Norfolk farmhouse with elegant period features was worth saving TA K I N G T H E P L U N G E Scandi style suits this Dutch canalside barn perfectly A R T I S T ’ S I M P R E S S I O N Adding colour and character to a historic property in Essex was a dream scheme for its creative owner P A S T U R E S N E W A wisteria-clad cottage in rural Kent proved irresistible to a couple looking to leave urban life behind
Vibrant modern furnishings create an inviting feel in this bright, spacious new build (page 107).
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D E S I G N F O R L I F E Hard work was needed to turn an
Edwardian house in the West Country into a forever home T U R N I N G O N T H E C H A R M For a couple with six grown-up sons, an enchanting 17th-century thatched cottage in Devon with a converted barn was the perfect fit F O R C E O F N AT U R E A cabinetmaker has lovingly restored a Cotswolds bungalow to create an impressive family home, complete with a cedar-clad pod in the garden
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A S G O O D A S N E W A chance meeting with an
interior designer persuaded this pair to abandon plans to move and give their London home a stylish update instead N E AT P E T I T E Clever design ideas have made the most of every inch in this bijou Parisian apartment T R A D I N G S P A C E S Having reconfigured the layout and decorated in a sophisticated palette of moody hues, this couple love their glamorous new home in London C L E A R T H I N K I N G It took a strong vision and determination for this couple to transform an unloved Victorian house in London into a dream property R E C I P E F O R S U C C E S S A bright, welcoming Edwardian townhouse in the capital has all the ingredients for busy family life and entertaining H E I G H T O F F A S H I O N A talented stylist let loose her creative talents on a once bland Victorian London semi U R B A N R E T R E AT Beautiful colour and a layering of textiles have brought vibrancy to this London apartment S TA R T I N G F R O M S C R AT C H A dilapidated Victorian semi in London, untouched for 40 years, was the perfect project for a seasoned renovator
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B R I G H T I D E A S Warm wood and cool concrete create
an industrial-chic look in a Portuguese new build F R E S H H O R I Z O N S A hillside bungalow in East Sussex was an ideal canvas for a couple’s eclectic style
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A N O R I G I N A L B E A U T Y Antiques and esoteric finds
combine to dynamic effect in a Victorian villa in Kent C R E AT I V E C A N V A S How an artist added personality and a 1970s vibe to a Leicestershire new build A N U P B E AT A P P R O A C H Imaginative ideas have brought energy and fun into this Danish home
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R E A D E R S U R V E Y Your chance to win up to £250 T R AV E L O F F E R Luxury European river cruises P L A N T O F F E R Glorious snowdrops W H E R E T O B U Y Find stockists listed in this issue R O O M E N V Y The scheme that’s inspired us this month
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e d ito r ’s le t te r | 25bh 25 BEAUTIFUL
HOMES EDITORIAL
WELCOME Many of this month’s homes feature bright colours. Fuchsia sofas, green chairs, teal lights and even a pink rhino head lamp. With the arrival of spring, we thought it was time to celebrate bold choices taken by homeowners and to look at palettes you might not normally expect. Charlotte Gueniau’s home (page 132) is the perfect example – not only is it she who has the rhino head, but also a mustard sofa, tropical wallpaper and stained-glass panels. It reminded me that the best way to decorate is with confidence. Filling your home with what you love can only ever look fantastic. Of course, not every big choice involves a bright shade. Louisa and Jonathan Bisson’s barn renovation (page 8) is a feat of vision, too, seeing the potential in an unloved space and turning it into a reality. With decorating, big risks can reap big rewards. What are you waiting for? I also want to flag up a new magazine I think you’ll like – Green Living Made Easy, which is available now. It is full of ways to make better, more environmentally sound choices (and it’s printed on eco paper, too). PIP McCORMAC, ACTING EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
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Hidden treasure
An ancient barn proved to be the perfect canvas for Jonathan and Louisa Bisson to hone their design skills FEATURE EMMA J PAGE | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHAEL SMITH
KITCHEN-DINER Jonathan designed the layout and a local kitchen specialist recreated it. The table is made from roof joists and scaffolding. Kitchen, price on request, Handmade Kitchens of Christchurch. Dining chairs upholstered in Omega velvet, £46.70m, Linwood
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H A L LWAY A large globe pendant and glass staircase give this central space an updated feel. Oak dining table and velvet dining chairs, prices on request, Brook House. Oak flooring in Frozen Umber, £55m, V4. Grimsås 80cm pendant lamp, £75, Ikea, recreates this look
SITTING ROOM An impressively restored arts and crafts brick fireplace takes centre stage here. The log burner also heats water for the underfloor heating. Claudius sofas, price on request, Tamarisk Designs. Coffee tables, price on request, Brook House. Log burner boiler stove, price on request, Broseley
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home truths THE PROPERTY Medieval barn L O C AT I O N Oxfordshire ROOMS Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner/living area, utility room, five bedrooms (four en suite), shower room P U R C H A S E D 2015 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in a period cottage nearby,’ says Jonathan.
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KITCHEN-DINER ENTRANCE Oak doors and iron door handles throughout are offset with contemporary elements such as glass and unfussy fabrics. Bestone Ivory floor tiles, £58sq m, Hyperion Tiles
GARDEN ‘This terrace is like an outdoor room – we use it daily in the summer,’ says Jonathan. Garden furniture, from a selection, Bramblecrest
E A R LY D AY S
Jonathan remained largely unfazed by these setbacks. ‘In reality, there are only so many viable configurations when it comes to barn conversions,’ he reflects. ‘So we knew we’d add a mezzanine floor along the building’s sides, with a large central atrium, as well as a kitchen-living area, converted from more recent Edwardian garaging. Two big pluses were that planning permission had been granted, and the wonderful oak beams were in great condition.’ With a background in wooden boat building and restoration in his native Jersey, Jonathan felt comfortable working with such a large amount of wood. The couple project-managed the renovation themselves, and Jonathan rolled up his sleeves to design the layout, even building a generous dining table from roof joists and scaffolding. ‘Undertaking the work ourselves, with the help of local craftspeople, was challenging and more time-consuming, but it meant that the build happened organically,’ he says. ‘So we had time to go back and
refine where needed, which took the pressure off a bit.’ HISTORIC FINDS
The bats were not the only surprise offered up. During the work, tradespeople unearthed perfectly preserved heads of corn that had been sequestered behind beams 200 years ago, as well as makeshift mezzanines crafted for hay storage. ‘By the front door, the beams are rounded off where the cattle brushed past for years,’ says Jonathan. In the 1920s, the building also underwent an arts and crafts makeover for village gatherings and events. ‘One of our carpenters recalls visiting it during the Queen’s coronation,’ says Jonathan. Keen to avoid a rustic pastiche, Jonathan chose simple finishes and materials. That marriage of old and new can be seen in the glass staircase leading to the new mezzanine and the bespoke modern oak and glass screen that acts as a practical room divider in the vast central space. ‘We knew that the key was to fashion a few cosy areas,’ says Jonathan. ‘We had to supersize everything,’ Jonathan adds. So sofas are large and squashy, and the kitchen cabinetry and island were bespoke. The couple, who run an interiors fit-out company, were able to plunder contacts for pieces. ‘Barns can be quite fussy architecturally,’ says Jonathan. ‘So we used one paint colour, apart from the odd feature wall, stained oak flooring and the same tiles for a sense of cohesion. Then we added pops of colour here and there.’ The family, including daughters Ella, 16, and Leoni, 13, plus Labrador Loco have made this generous space their own. And the bats have their own vast bat loft – no doubt a highly appreciated upgrade.
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
TO USE THIS HOUSE AS A LOCATION FOR PHOTO SHOOTS, SEE INSTAGRAM @MEDIEVAL_BARN_LOCATION
J
onathan Bisson was not looking to move home until a medieval tithe barn caught his eye. ‘My wife, Louisa, was idly browsing online and she showed it to me,’ recalls Jonathan. ‘I couldn’t stop thinking about it and went for a viewing the next day. It was a now-or-never opportunity.’ Formerly an antiques centre, the building had been converted but the interiors were exposed to the rafters, and only rudimentary utilities existed. The listed property also housed bats, meaning work could not start until six months after purchase, due to a strict bat mitigation plan.
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BEDROOM An upholstered headboard and layers of textural fabrics soften this scheme. Walls in French Grey Pale intelligent matt emulsion, £50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Headboard in Luxe fabric, £74m, Harlequin
B AT H R O O M Pale flooring makes the perfect contrast to the sturdy beams. Livyn Border Canyon oak flooring, £20.49sq m, Quick-Step
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AN ORIGINAL BEAUTY With her love of antiques and esoteric finds, Olya Lammas has created a dynamic style for her Victorian villa FEATURE JO LEEVERS | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHAEL SMITH
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SITTING ROOM A striking canvas in Chinese ink oil provides an eye-catching focal point. Artwork by Francisco Hernández Díaz. Targua coffee table, £1,198, Anthropologie. Tolstoy sofa, price on request, John Sankey H A L LWAY Traditional dark wood furniture and crystal chandeliers add to the grandeur of this space. Nushka sells similar Tuareg rugs, from £2,500 each
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25bh | tow n SITTING ROOM A luxurious patterned rug draws together this room’s natural and warm tones. Cranes In Trees rug, from £995, Wendy Morrison. Ventana two-tier chandelier, £1,095, Jonathan Adler
KITCHEN Geometric pendant lights and metal bar stools bring a bold contrast to the classic Shaker-style units. Etch lights, £885 each, Tom Dixon. The HK Living wire brass stools, £265 each, Folk Interiors, are identical
LIBRARY Rich jewel shades and black woodwork create an inspiring scheme. Chiltern sofa, from £3,450, The Conran Shop. Louis Midavaine painting, £3,000, A House To Love
When Olya and Philip Lammas spotted this elegant home on the outskirts of a town in Kent they weren’t looking to buy somewhere so grand. ‘But once we’d seen this place, it was hard to consider anything else,’ says Olya. ‘It has an abundance of light and is set in an elevated position, overlooking farmland.’ When they saw the view from the windows of cattle grazing, it sealed the deal. ‘We love being in this countryside setting, yet we’re only moments from town,’ she says. Olya, an interior designer at A House To Love, was keen to create an entirely fresh look for the villa, where she now lives with Philip and their youngest son, Danny, 13. Before she started thinking about the interiors, the house needed plenty of work, from installing new flooring to rewiring. When she was able to redesign the rooms, Olya drew on her love of antiques and vintage style – and also her previous career running fashion boutiques. ‘Working in styling taught me how the best clothes reflect a person’s personality and the same goes for “dressing” a home,’ she says. Weaving personality through the generous spaces of this house could have felt daunting, but Olya took it all in her stride and began the process with a period of reflection. ‘I like to take time to absorb and understand a room,’ she says. ‘I consider its overall mood as well as the practicalities, such as who will spend time in there and what it will be used for.’ Next, Olya writes down the keywords that reflect the atmosphere she wants to create; for this home, they included ‘serene’, ‘moody’ and 16 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
DINING ROOM Sleek modern chairs add a contemporary twist to the vintage farmhouse table. Eames DSW chairs, £375 each, The Conran Shop. Moooi large Random pendant light, £850, Made in Design
home truths THE PROPERTY Detached Victorian villa L O C AT I O N Kent R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, library, study, cloakroom, three bedrooms (one en suite), dressing room, bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2016 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in Victorian converted stables nearby,’ says Olya.
25bh | tow n CLOAKROOM An art deco-inspired wallpaper and mirror lend a decadent feel. Try the Octavia mirror, £249, Atkin and Thyme. Albany Deco Arch wallpaper, £15.98 a roll, Wallpaper Direct, would work well here
BEDROOM Kit Kemp’s hotel rooms inspired this scheme. ‘Her designs exemplify the beauty of decorative layering,’ says Olya. Belle Île wallpaper, £69 a roll, Nina Campbell
BEDROOM Burnished metal pieces shine out against a moody blue paint shade. Vintage side table, price on request, A House To Love. Walls in Inchyra Blue, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
‘luxurious’. Throughout the project, these were forefront in her mind as she narrowed down which fabrics, furniture and pieces of art would work. For the calm and airy sitting room, which overlooks the gardens, Olya chose a palette of neutrals, gentle pinks and richer russet hues. Without overcrowding her symmetrical arrangements, she then added favourite antiques, art finds and, to keep a sense of balance, contemporary lighting. In contrast, Philip’s library next door evokes a more stirring, intense mood that encourages creativity, with deep greens and blues set against dramatic black wood bookshelves. Upstairs, a bedroom dips into dark, luxurious blue tones and touches of chinoiserie, while a patterned wallpaper brings a more playful feel to another bedroom. Olya loves trawling markets and fairs for unusual pieces and often waits until she finds the right spot for them. What’s more, she doesn’t use antiques in a traditional way, but mixes distinctive objects that are each beautiful in their own right. Her recent finds include a Tuareg rug, a pair of Murano glass sconces and two leather armchairs embellished with Moroccan kilims. ‘Antiques bring a special energy into a home,’ she says. ‘Whether it’s the faded beauty of a 19th-century gilt-framed mirror or the vibrancy of an abstract painting, vintage pieces help tell a story.’ While respecting the Victorian architecture of her home, Olya has proved that elegant, esoteric finds can add another layer to its history. ‘My design style doesn’t slot neatly into one category,’ she says, ‘but I love to combine unexpected elements and show how they can work together.’ 18 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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RUSTIC REVIVAL Having upped sticks and moved away from the city, Sally and Rob Appleyard have embraced the good life in their sympathetically restored period farmhouse FEATURE JANET McMEEKIN | PHOTOGRAPHY RICHARD GADSBY
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KITCHEN-DINER
Green French bistro chairs are a vibrant choice in this welcoming farmhouse-style kitchen. Set of four bistro chairs, €355, Design Market. The Quad metal wall clock, £125, Newgate
A
home truths THE PROPERTY Grade II-listed detached farmhouse, dating from the 17th century with Victorian additions L O C AT I O N East Sussex R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen-diner, five bedrooms, three bathrooms, annexe with an en-suite bedroom P U R C H A S E D 2012 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in a Georgian home in London,’ says Sally.
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s Sally and Rob Appleyard navigated their way through country lanes to view a remote farmhouse, the pair couldn’t help but wonder why the estate agent’s details lacked any photographs of the interior. ‘As soon as we arrived, we were captivated by both the pretty exterior and breathtaking location,’ says Sally. ‘However, when we stepped inside, the photography mystery was instantly solved. The house was a complete wreck and clearly hadn’t been touched for decades. Plaster was crumbling off the walls, there was no central heating and it was crying out for a huge injection of TLC.’ At that stage, in 2011, the couple had decided to relocate from London to the country. Reminiscing about halcyon childhood days spent in and around Rye and Camber Sands, they started their search in East Sussex and looked at many houses before happening upon Lidham Hill Farm. ‘We were starting to feel jaded,’ says Sally. Thankfully, perseverance paid off when they found their ‘holy grail’ home. ‘Although the inside was awful, as we wandered into the garden and took in the spectacular Brede Valley views, I knew that, with a lot of effort and imagination, it could be wonderful,’ Sally says. Having finally bought the farmhouse in October 2012, the first thing Sally and Rob did was to install a large woodburning stove in
c o u ntry | 25bh DINING ROOM
Striking portraits of their children add a special personal feature to the couple’s homely dining space. Paintings, price on request, Luke Hannam. Dorchester pine table, £249, The Cotswold Company, is similar
d e c o r a t i n g t i p ‘If you want to be faithful to your period home, it’s worth spending time researching and choosing paint colours that hark back to the property’s past’
SITTING ROOM
The carefully restored and capacious inglenook is a talking point. Sofas upholstered in a fabric similar to Baker Iris printed velvet in Mole, £149m, GP&J Baker. Try the Guipavas chest, £175, Maisons du Monde
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MASTER BEDROOM
Ochre cushions add a splash of bright colour. The French Bedroom Company’s Leighton ochre velvet cushions, £35 each, are similar
BEDROOM
This converted cow shed space combines period and modern styles. Mustard RAR armchair, £515, The Conran Shop
the sitting room’s impressive inglenook fireplace, which kept that room and the kitchen warm as temperatures plummeted. In the spring, new central heating was installed and the whole house was rewired. After that, the team at R Holloway Builders began the first major project – knocking two bedrooms into one, fitting an en suite and replumbing the entire property. Phase two began in the autumn, transforming a derelict cowshed into a one-bed holiday let. ‘Towards the end of the project, we realised that our rambling farmhouse, annexe and surrounding land would be fantastic for photography and film location shoots,’ says Sally. ‘That idea has blossomed into a popular business, which I enjoy running.’ Since moving to Lidham Hill Farm, life has changed dramatically for the couple and their children Zack, 15, and Aggy, 11. ‘Zack and Aggy have adapted well to life in the country,’ says Sally, ‘and we feel that we’re giving them the best start in life that we can.’ 2 2 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
BATHROOM
The floor was strengthened to support the weight of the bath. The Millbrook double-ended bath, £1,107, from The Cast Iron Bath Company, would work here
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL 01424 812919 OR VISIT LIDHAMHILLFARM.CO.UK
l a s t w o r d ‘Find a builder who is sympathetic to old buildings and will go the extra mile to be true to your property’s character’
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AS GOOD AS NEW Why move when there’s amazing potential in your own home, as Emma and Nick Berry found out FEATURE KAREN JENSEN-JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY NICK SMITH
SITTING ROOM
Tier-on-tier shutters make a feature of the bay and highlight the ceiling height. Blue Penelope accent chair, £139; Madison corner sofa, £899, both Cult Furniture. Five-arm brass chandelier, from 232, Spark & Bell
DINING AREA
A bare brick wall adds warmth and texture. Eero Saarinen-style Tulip table, £699, Pash Classics. Black Graffiti Lips, canvas, from £66, Skulpta
home truths
KITCHEN-DINER
The palette of blues and greys lends a feeling of harmony. Swag light, £75, John Lewis & Partners. Lucia bar stools, £119 each, Cult Furniture
THE PROPERTY Victorian terrace L O C AT I O N North London R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, three bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom, study/guest bedroom PU R C H A S E D 2009 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before, we lived in an apartment in Australia,’ says Emma.
H
aving lived in their home for 10 years, Emma and Nick Berry felt the need for a change and started to think about moving house. But after a chance meeting with interior designer Caz Myers from Caz Myers Design, their plans radically changed. ‘We love living in Crouch End as it’s such a vibrant neighbourhood and we just couldn’t find anywhere we liked better,’ recalls Emma. ‘Fortunately, I met Caz at a friend’s house where she was finishing a beautiful renovation and I thought, why don’t we do the same?’ After a positive first meeting with the interior designer, plans were drawn up and the project was underway within a
couple of months. ‘When Caz showed us her detailed mood and furniture boards, there was very little we didn’t like,’ says Emma. ‘Our brief was to create a stylish space where we could entertain friends, but equally it needed to be a practical family home for us and our baby daughter, Florence. We didn’t want anything too formal, preferring unusual features.’ Caz suggested a neutral wall colour as a starting point in the sitting room, introducing plush blue upholstery and soft furnishings. ‘The layout of the house hasn’t changed but we have opened up the kitchen, which has created a much lighter space,’ explains Emma. ‘I’m most delighted with the exposed brick wall, which Caz suggested. She sourced and bought brick 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020 | 2 5
MASTER BEDROOM
Slimline furniture and a neutral backdrop give a spacious, uncluttered feel. Pink Celine accent chair, from £195, Habitat. Mini cot, £119, moKee
d e c o r a t i n g t i p ‘Don’t be afraid to experiment with colour and consider using darker shades on woodwork and doors to create unexpected contrasts’
BEDROOM
‘The idea behind the guest room was an unfussy look with warm tones to make it welcoming,’ says Emma. Sydney rocking chair in faux leather in Grey, £129, Cult Furniture. Metalwork nightstands, £299 each, West Elm
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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A wall-mounted vanity unit adds to the floor space. Assorted Monogeo floor tiles, £3.74 per tile, Topps Tiles
BEDROOM
‘Painted floorboards give a vintage look that suits our array of styles,’ says Emma. Floorboards in Loft White, £69 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Feathereffect metallic wings, £180, Rockett St George. Isla footstool (below left), £89, Julian Joseph
slips, which are essentially real bricks but half depth and had the wall properly pointed so that it looked like an original solid brick exposed wall. The texture has warmed up our scheme and added another unusual feature to the house.’ After drafting a detailed furniture board, something Caz always recommends to her clients, an unusual oval dining table was chosen to maximise the space further and add a touch of contemporary style. A mid-century sideboard, a favourite piece of Emma and Nick’s, was sourced by Caz and integrates well with the modern mood of the kitchen and dining space. ‘I wanted the house to have a natural, calm flow and Caz’s suggestion for wooden floors downstairs and painted
floorboards in the bedrooms really appealed to me,’ says Emma. ‘I like the idea of repeating texture, colour and mood throughout the house because it creates harmony.’ Emma and Nick have no regrets about reworking their house instead of moving to a new area and are still amazed at how straightforward their renovation project turned out to be. ‘I think we were so lucky finding Caz because she really listened to what we wanted and that’s one of the most important considerations when choosing your interior designer. We do have similar taste, but she brought so much more to the project than we ever imagined and has turned our tired Victorian house into an exciting new home.’ 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020 | 2 7
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Neat petite Philippe Harden has combined tradition with modernity to create a Parisian apartment that belies its diminutive size FEATURE RACHEL LEEDHAM PHOTOGRAPHY GREG COX/BUREAUX/LIVING INSIDE
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SITTING ROOM A wall of storage keeps clutter hidden from view and incorporates brightly painted display shelves, which add a note of contrast. Alfa three-seater sofa, from ÂŁ4,135, Emaf Progetti by Zanotta at Nest. For a 1950s Oase chair by Wim Rietveld for Ahrend de Cirkel, try Vinterior. Shelves in Persian Yellow powder matt emulsion, from â‚Ź37.30 for 1ltr, Ressource
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inding a truly dilapidated apartment in central Paris is no easy task, but architect Philippe Harden was determined to unearth a diamond in the rough. ‘I had renovated my previous home on a relatively small budget and this time I was keen to take on a bigger project that required more work,’ he recalls, adding, ‘I also wanted to move away from a strong industrial aesthetic and introduce more luxurious materials, such as marble.’ A year into his search, Philippe was shown this fifth-floor apartment in an early 20thcentury building in the 20th arrondissement. ‘The apartment hadn’t been touched for 50 years and, astonishingly, it didn’t have a bathroom, just a sink and a toilet,’ says Philippe. ‘But I could see that it had charm, with its high ceilings, original mouldings and arched windows, which overlook a square.’ The other big draw was that the owner was also selling two rooms on the floor above. ‘This opened up the possibilities, as I could turn these rooms into a rental flat or link one of them to my apartment to enlarge the space,’ he says. Philippe admits that he spent a long time deciding how to best utilise the apartment’s scant 74sq m footprint. ‘All the other flats in the building have the kitchen overlooking the inner courtyard,’ he recounts, ‘but I decided to create the bathroom here and move the kitchen to the centre, SITTING ROOM The original arched windows, complete with Juliet balconies, bring character to the space. Find similar etchings by Conrad Marca-Relli at 1stdibs OFFICE A black leather daybed enhances the moody blue of the walls in this room, which doubles as a guest bedroom. Walls in Hague Blue estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball DINING AREA Sculptural vintage brass pendant lamps help to define this area. Afteroom dining chairs by Menu, from £300 each, Twentytwentyone. Try Design Market for a Trava pendant by Carl Thore for Granhaga Metallindustri
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home truths THE PROPERTY Duplex apartment in an early 20th-century building L O C AT I O N The 20th arrondissement in Paris R O O M S Hallway, sitting/dining room, kitchen, master bedroom, office-cum-bedroom, bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2013 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘I lived in a loft-style apartment in a 1930s building in the 19th arrondissement,’ says Philippe.
KITCHEN A striking steel-framed glazed wall, which incorporates glass shelving, lends a subtly industrial aesthetic. Aldous Lamont can create a similar stained plywood kitchen. Lotis lights, £98.83 each, dmlights
25bh | c it y adding a steel-framed glazed wall that still lets light into the kitchen.’ Two rooms were knocked into one to create a large living and dining space. Tucked into a corner of the room is a slender staircase whose pared-back design adds a strikingly contemporary feature. Equally modern is a wall of storage that hides items such as the TV, and incorporates a section of open shelving painted a vibrant yellow. ‘I liked the idea of introducing a touch of colour to what is otherwise a neutral space,’ Philippe explains. In contrast, the kitchen area is resolutely dark, with black walls and cabinetry. ‘I wanted to give this area a completely separate identity,’ Philippe notes. The small second bedroom-cum-office was also painted a rich hue, this time a moody blue: ‘This room doesn’t have a lot of light so I decided to embrace that and make it even more atmospheric,’ he explains. A luxurious touch comes in the form of Carrara marble, which brings character to both the bathroom and the kitchen. Philippe also had the dining tabletop made from marble, designing timber legs in the style of a simplified farm table. ‘I like to have a mix of vintage and high-street buys,’ he says. It is Philippe’s keen eye for detail that makes his home a joy to live in, striking a perfect balance between function and aesthetics. ‘It was important to me to retain the history of the apartment while making it relevant to modern living,’ he says. ‘Being my own client was at times challenging,’ he adds, ‘but it was also hugely rewarding and has given me a home that truly reflects my personal tastes.’ S TA I R C A S E The clever design of the staircase ensures that it encroaches as little as possible on the sitting room. B AT H R O O M A bespoke timber and marble vanity unit brings smart elegance. For a similar mirror, try the Arles large round mirror, £159, Made H A L LWAY The passageway is painted black to create a sense of drama. A similar wall colour is Off-Black estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
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FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
MASTER BEDROOM A large-scale geometric wallpaper adds pattern to this light-filled room. Tile 105/12052 wallpaper, £85 a roll, Cole & Son, has a similar feel. Volume 2 wall lights, from £275 each, Niclas Hoflin for Rubn at Twentytwentyone. (Left) Drew low side table, £45, Habitat
Seeking SANCTUARY Away from the fast-paced world of horse racing, Diane Brittain has created a calm family home full of charm FEATURE HAZEL DOLAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BRENT DARBY
SITTING ROOM Garden and hedgerow flowers and vintage finds make a pretty display on a painted French tray. Try the Dende wooden bobbin with string and scissors, £24.95, Nkuku
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home truths T H E P R O P E R T Y Grade II-listed 18th-century mill house L O C AT I O N North Yorkshire R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, cloakroom, four bedrooms (two en suite), dressing room, bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2013 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before, I lived in a Georgian farmhouse,’ says Diane.
SITTING ROOM A charcoal portrait of Diane by Theo Platt hangs above the fireplace. Bluebell sofa, from £1,250, Sofa.com. Try the Asiatic sisal linen rug, from £69.99, Robert Dyas
KITCHEN The beamed ceiling and walls have been painted in the same fresh, light shade to lift the room. Walls in Clunch estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr; panelling in Light Blue estate eggshell, £64 for 2.5ltr, both Farrow & Ball. Island with trays, Pond Cottage Antiques
KITCHEN A period-style farmhouse sink, hand-painted cabinetry and simple checks look classically rustic. Bespoke cabinetry, Pond Cottage Antiques. Try Russian linen gingham in Natural, £15.50m, Wath Court Fabrics
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iane Brittain is a true country girl at heart, steeped in the world of racehorse training. But living beside a busy stable yard can be less than relaxing, so, seven years ago, she decided she wanted to find a more peaceful rural home for herself and her two now grown-up sons, Sam and Tom. ‘A stable yard is full of people and horses, and it’s hectic all the time,’ she says. Friends tried to persuade her to move to a flat in York or Harrogate, but Diane was adamant she needed fields and views. So, when she spotted a pretty mill house with mellowed brickwork and a pantile roof in a quiet North Yorkshire village, its appeal was instant. ‘It was a brilliant investment,’ she says. ‘It had been on the market for a long time, and was a bit tired, but I kept seeing it online and wondering why such a fantastic-looking house hadn’t sold. I viewed it a few times, but I knew the first time – and the second time for sure – how I could make it look.’ Once indoors, it became clearer why the property had lagged on the market. Although well kept and expensively fitted, the interior was in need of an update – and there were only two bedrooms. Diane could see that reconfiguring the upstairs would double the number of bedrooms, and that a more modern style would show the house at its best. Previous renovation projects had taught her the value of planning ahead. ‘You really need to think about how you 3 8 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
c o u ntry | 25bh DINING AREA Diane removed the previous gas fire to reveal the original cast-iron fireplace and bread oven. Henriksdal chairs, £70 each, Ikea. Black Toast tray, £33, Emma Bridgewater
d e c o r at i n g t i p ‘Try using the same colour for walls, cornices and architraves – it looks so calm and uncluttered’
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BEDROOM ‘I needed a lot of curtains and thought, “How hard can it be?”. I bought myself a sewing machine and watched lots of YouTube videos,’ says Diane. Similar checked throws, from £55, Laura Ashley
want to live,’ she says. ‘Where the sun comes in, where you like to eat and spend the most time, how to get the storage right, sorting out the plans for lighting and sockets – there’s a lot more to doing up a house than choosing a paint colour.’ In a whirlwind 10 weeks, Diane’s team stripped the house of its dated carpets, bathroom fittings and kitchen units, replumbed, replastered and added new rooflights to brighten the east-facing kitchen. Shaker-style cabinetry with a cosy Aga was at the centre of Diane’s plans and, from there, a clear idea developed of how she wanted the rest of the rooms to be decorated – in a simple, uncluttered style, with warmth at the heart and an easy flow between spaces. A pared-back palette and simple tricks – such as painting the walls, cornicing and woodwork all in the same shade – are key to keeping the look calm and relaxed. ‘I’ve always liked Gustavian colours, with their grey-blue palette, and I think I’m probably experimenting a bit more with that now – just enough to make everything feel a little warmer, such as the restful greys in my bedroom,’ says Diane. ‘Simply bringing in some slightly darker shades of light blue, plus linen and fur accessories, makes the schemes feel more comfortable and cosy, but still very natural.’ Diane now relishes the calmness of her home. ‘It’s so cosy, sheltered and peaceful here,’ she says. ‘It’s not a grand house, but there’s something about it. It draws people in.’ 4 0 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
B AT H R O O M Tongue-and-groove panelling, matt tiles and a traditional cast-iron radiator give this room a clean, timeless feel. Acova radiator, from £116, B&Q. Limestone flooring, from £24sq m, Calverts
GARDEN Diane stripped the pergola of ivy and spiders’ webs and made a simple fabric canopy to provide shade while waiting for the climbing roses, honeysuckle and wisteria to bloom.
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T R A D I N G S PA C E S Ed O’Donnell and JP Banks used many clever tricks to transform a dark, poky house into a glamorous, inviting home FEATURE AMELIA THORPE PHOTOGRAPHY TARAN WILKHU
SITTING ROOM The new staircase is made from acid-washed and oiled mild steel, rubbed back to create a striking patina. Walls in Inchyra Blue estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Chairs covered in Graffiti Allover velvet, £150m, Timorous Beasties
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home truths THE PROPERTY Victorian end-of-terrace house L O C AT I O N South London R O O M S Sitting room, kitchen-diner, study, terrace, two bedrooms, bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2014 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before moving here, we lived in a small flat nearby,’ says Ed.
S DINING AREA The shutters were painted burgundy to echo the colour of the sofa. ‘Using similar tones throughout creates a subtle sense of flow,’ says Ed. Tier on tier shutters, from £225sq m, California Shutters. Bespoke dining table, H&H Concrete Tables. Bespoke Random pendant light, Chia-Ying Lee at Studio If
TERRACE A former junk storage area is now a Mediterranean-inspired space. Try Garden Trading’s Hampstead chairs, £480 for two. Topps Tiles’ Henley Cool Corner tiles, from £47.01sq m, are similar
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KITCHEN Smart new handles bring an elegant touch to the simple door fronts. Knobs, £30 each; pull bars, from £45 each, Buster + Punch. No Pattern doors in RAL Gentian Blue, from £54 each, Superfront
earching for a home with more space than their small flat, Ed O’Donnell and his partner, JP Banks, viewed a seemingly endless selection of rather dreary properties in their quest for a place to renovate. ‘We wanted to stay in Brixton, because we love its vibrancy, great restaurants, concert venues and art fair,’ says interior designer Ed, who is co-founder and creative director of design studio Angel O’Donnell. ‘We looked at lots of flats, then the estate agent showed us this – a house! Albeit a small one with a strange staircase, but still, it had more space than anything we’d looked at previously.’ Ed believes that the dark interior, cramped by a staircase that took a curious route right across the main living area to the bay window, had put off other potential buyers. But these factors were much less of a deterrent for Ed, given his professional skills, and JP, who has a strong sense of art and design. Together, they planned a new layout, resolving the staircase conundrum by replacing the old one with a contemporary folded steel version, tucked into one corner of the sitting room so that it was less obtrusive. ‘I was inspired by a loft apartment in east London,’ says Ed of his design. ‘Our aim was to make a narrow, dark house feel brighter, taller and bigger,’ he continues. ‘In the end, we gutted the house so that nothing
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SITTING ROOM A vintage cocktail cart and sleek armchair add glamour to this space. Matthew Hilton Balzac armchair, from £2,428, SCP. Super 8 pendant light, price on request, Le Deun Luminaires. St Pancras oak parquet flooring, from £97.84sq m, Broadleaf
25bh | c it y MASTER BEDROOM The black floor and richly coloured furnishings create an opulent look, while the walls and ceiling have been kept neutral for a calm feel. Blind in Kayapo Perroquet fabric, £176m, Lelièvre. Headboard in Tatiana Maize velvet, £83.50m, Romo. Throw in Kaleido Oxide velvet, £147.50m, Black Edition
STUDY Removing the ceiling from a former bedroom made space for this office area and sleeping platform above. Try the Veneto Bistro recycled leather floor tiles, £119.76sq m, Floortiqué
remained apart from the walls, then refurbished it.’ In addition to removing a door between the sitting room and kitchen to create an open-plan layout, the pair also replaced two small windows and a back door with bifolds to introduce more natural light into the kitchen. ‘We love entertaining,’ says Ed. The galley-style kitchen allows room for a showpiece dining table, made from dye-injected concrete finished with a glossy resin. The cabinets were inspired by the look of a deli, with marble worktops and open shelving made from planks of waney edge oak. ‘The contrast of natural stone and wood against the black industrial-style shelf brackets and the blue units is striking,’ says Ed. Bold use of colour continues in the sitting room, its walls painted in a smoky blue. ‘A dark tone makes a room feel sumptuous and luxurious, and larger because the walls seem pushed back, especially if you paint the woodwork in a similar or darker shade,’ says Ed. Subtle lighting and richly coloured upholstery add to the glamorous mood, while personality comes from the couple’s art collection, a shared passion. Upstairs, Ed and JP moved the bathroom from one side of the house to the other, in order to gain a window and introduce natural light. They also replaced standard internal doors with ones that slide into pockets, so saving space, and built a first floor extension to create a small dressing area. But probably the most significant improvement was to open up the roof space to create a lofty feel in the master bedroom, and to make space for a study and new sleeping platform at the front of the house. ‘That extra height has made a dramatic difference,’ says Ed. ‘It’s hard to believe that the house was once so cramped and awkward.’ B AT H R O O M Ed and JP took inspiration from the boutique Ace Hotel in New York to create this stark, urban-style scheme, which features simple metro tiles and monochrome fittings. Ex.T Gus basin, £1,349; Vola HV1 basin mixer, from £471.60, both CP Hart
FOR STOCKISTS GO TO WHERE TO BUY
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FULL OF SURPRISES Urban chic harmonises with punchy colours and playful geometrics inside the period country home of Karen and Peter Smith FEATURE MAGGIE COLVIN | PHOTOGRAPHY ROBERT SANDERSON
home truths THE PROPERTY Two 17th-century cottages, knocked into one L O C AT I O N Surrey R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, den, snug, utility room, cloakroom, three bedrooms (all en suite) P U R C H A S E D 2014 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before we moved here, we lived in a smaller cottage nearby,’ says Karen.
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DINING AREA
‘This bespoke zinc table is designed to age gracefully and will slowly mark in textural layers,’ says Karen. Zinc table, price on request, Metal Sheets. Melt pendants, from £445 each, Tom Dixon
KITCHENDINER
White worktops and beams perfectly set off lilac and blue paintwork. Cabinetry, price on request, John Lewis of Hungerford. Island painted in Stiffkey Blue estate eggshell, £64 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
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ppearances can be deceptive – and that is certainly true of Karen and Peter Smith’s home in Surrey, where they live with Karen’s teenage daughter Sienna, and Peter’s grown-up sons when they visit. You might expect cosy, cottage-size rooms filled with florals and pastels, but not a bit of it. Past the rose-covered porch lies a seamless flow of contemporary spaces with punchy colours, geometric patterns, edgy light fittings and metal bifold doors. G E T T I N G S TA R T E D
Karen and Peter had been renting the cottage for six months when the owner decided to move back home to the US. ‘Quite unexpectedly, we had the exciting opportunity of being able to buy the cottage,’ says Karen. ‘We had already spotted a lot that needed fixing or we wanted to change, but Peter had started his working life as a joiner and cabinet maker and I’m a good organiser, so
together we felt confident to take on what turned into a mega four-year project.’ The roof, electrics and plumbing needed upgrading and rotten timbers had to be replaced. An unwanted bathroom on the ground floor was removed to open up space for a new kitchen-diner and den. DECISION TIME
The couple moved out to let a local builder take over and Karen’s friend, Allyson Coates, who was tutoring at KLC School of Design, came on board. ‘She was the obvious person to help,’ says Karen. ‘She made us think about how to use the space.’ The couple thought the best location for the kitchen was where the den is now, but Allyson persuaded them to place it at the heart of the home and create a den with a separate garden entrance. ‘This works perfectly when we’re entertaining and Sienna also has friends over,’ says Karen. While Karen was keen on muted colours, Allyson convinced her to be
braver. ‘Colour energises,’ says Allyson. ‘It cheers up a room, even on a grey day.’ Allyson produced several mood boards and lighting solutions for Karen and Peter to choose from. ‘Lighting can really make or break a scheme,’ says Allyson, who suggested statement reflective pendants in the dining room to create a party mood. Spotlights in the ceiling would look incongruous with dark beams, so Allyson sourced floor lights instead, which tuck away neatly behind the furniture. OUTDOOR DESIGNS
Peter and Karen love to entertain in summer, so their outdoor spaces were also important. Garden designer Raine Clarke-Wills created a traditional cottage garden at the front and a sleeker scheme at the rear that’s ideal for parties. Now that all the work is done, the couple are delighted. ‘Having reached the end of our project, we’re enjoying the results,’ says Karen. ‘We love living here.’
Design Tip ‘Seersucker duvet covers are a delight. They add texture to a scheme and – even better for perfectionists like me – need no ironing. The wrinkles just smooth out’
DEN
Perfect for teenagers and adults alike, this breakout space, with its cosy seating, has its own garden entrance. Cushions, from £48 each, Andrew Martin. Try the Chatnap corner sofa, £2,625, Loaf
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SITTING ROOM
Punchy colours contrast with natural oak beams. Painting, price on request, Ben Payne. Cream rug, £80, Home Sense. Checked rug (on armchair), £130, Oka
BEDROOM
Tucked cosily beneath the eaves, this space is a relaxing haven with tactile fabrics and a soft grey and white scheme. White seersucker double duvet cover, £130, Croft collection at John Lewis & Partners
EN SUITE
The simple, elegant forms of the bath and side table combine with pretty accessories to add a luxurious touch. Barcelona bath, £2,480, Victoria & Albert. Side table, £475, Oka
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home truths THE PROPERTY Detached Victorian house built in 1871 L O C AT I O N London R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner/living area, utility room, cloakroom, four bedrooms (one en suite), one bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2016 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We were living in a house nearby before we moved here,’ says Victoria.
T H I N KI N G Having waited patiently for the right house, Victoria and John Evans had firm ideas for every aspect of its space and style FEATURE JANE BOWLES | PHOTOGRAPHY MARK WEEKS
LIVING/DINING AREA A wall of glass doors opening onto the garden brings the outdoors in and floods the space with natural light. Wishbone dining chairs, £139 each, Cult Furniture. Prismatic Blender pendants, £144 each, Trainspotters
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KITCHEN The palette of soft blues creates a relaxed mood, while simple, Shaker-style cabinetry teamed with a butler sink and brass taps adds a modern country feel. Cabinetry, price on request, The Shaker Workshop; painted in
Lulworth Blue estate eggshell, £64 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Tall Clockhouse stools, from £105 each, Garden Trading. Large Quad pendants, £625 each, Davey Lighting. For a similar mixer tap, try the Tradition Brass two-hole deck, £444.83, Aston Matthews
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H A L LWAY Smart wood flooring in the living area and up the stairs is a beautiful, hard-wearing choice and creates a sense of flow between the spaces. Oak parquet flooring, £69sq m, The Natural Wood Floor Company
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25bh | c it y CLEO’S BEDROOM Pale pink walls and colourful accessories add a sense of playfulness. Walls in Calamine estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Try the Jute Jutta rug, £49.95, Benuta
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hen John and Victoria Evans began searching for the perfect family home, they had a clear vision of what they were after. ‘We wanted a property to renovate – one that was a cut above the standard terraces on offer,’ says Victoria. ‘We were renting locally, having sold our previous home nearby, and had spent almost three years looking before this four-bedroom Victorian property came up.’ The house was in desperate need of renovation. ‘Absolutely everything needed to be done,’ says Victoria. She decided to project manage all the work herself, despite being a busy mother of two young children, Sam and Cleo. ‘Although this was our first major project, I really wanted to take it on,’ says Victoria. ‘I studied art and design at Central Saint Martins, so I have a creative
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background. I used to spend hours as a child designing rooms for imaginary houses!’ Victoria and John agreed that in addition to renewing the wiring and plumbing, the layout needed a radical update. ‘It was a jumble of small rooms and odd, bolt-on features from the 1970s and 1980s,’ says Victoria. ‘We commissioned Oli Lambert of Lambert & Sons to help us with the project. He was great at helping me follow through on my ideas and keep to the budget.’ The house was stripped back to its structural bones and original Victorian features, such as the marble fireplace in the main sitting room, were restored. The lower ground floor was reconfigured to create a living area and spacious kitchendiner, housed in a glazed extension. ‘I designed the extension myself with Oli’s input on what would work structurally,
including large glass doors and a skylight,’ says Victoria. Stunning natural wood flooring was also a key feature of the rebuild. ‘The floors are traditional yet fresh, and I opted for larger planks of wood for a more modern take,’ Victoria adds. With the structural work in hand, Victoria switched her focus to the decor. ‘I did the interiors myself, as I’d spent years planning how I’d decorate a house from scratch,’ she says. However, choosing a palette to flow throughout the house proved one of the hardest parts of the project. ‘I got it wrong – twice – then decided to keep things light, with classic blues and neutrals.’ The project took about a year to complete. ‘It was absolutely worth the wait and the effort,’ says Victoria. ‘We love this house because it’s a true reflection of us as a family, having designed and styled it ourselves.’
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NURSERY Neutral colours and a cosy rocking chair create a soothing, restful scheme. Walls in Elephant’s Breath estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5 ltr, Farrow & Ball. The Hilston Cuddle chair, £599, and Oxford wooden cot, £699, both Mamas & Papas, are similar
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EN SUITE The double vanity with generous cupboards keeps this space clutter free. Chichester undermount double door wash stand, £1,895, Neptune. Try the Chantilly round mirror, £125, The Cotswold Company
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BRIGHT IDEAS
César and Marta Machado Moreira have combined warm wood, white brick and chic concrete in their new family home FEATURE JO LEEVERS | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHAEL SMITH
home truths THE PROPERTY New-build house L O C AT I O N Porto, Portugal R O O M S Hallway, kitchendiner/living area, study, utility room, cloakroom, playroom, three bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2018 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in an apartment nearby,’ says César.
KITCHEN Concrete covers the ceiling and floor creating an industrial feel, while turquoise frames on the sliding doors add a splash of colour. Stone Superstore’s Struzo cement-effect tiles, £29.90sq m, are a good alternative. Bespoke units by César Machado Moreira. For a similar bar stool, try the Urban, £99, Downton Interiors. The artwork (opposite, top right) is by Vhils; limited-edition prints, from €450, Underdogs
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his modern house on a quiet, cobbled street in Porto, Portugal, was built by architect César Machado Moreira with family life in mind. He lives here with his wife Marta, who co-runs interior design company Moopi and childrenswear company Piupiuchick, and their three children Guilherme, 11, Maria do Carmo, eight, and Vasco, two months – and it’s a truly personal team project. ‘I created the structure, then I handed over to Marta to do the interior design,’ says César. From the start, César envisaged the ground floor as largely open-plan. The kitchen and dining area flow out to the garden with its splash pool, which is a hit with the kids almost all year round. ‘We wanted a space that feels unique and works for our family life,’ says César. ‘Even if Marta or I are cooking, we feel included in what everyone else is doing. That is what family life and socialising with friends is all about.’ ADDING CHARACTER
César also wanted to give this home architectural interest and has done so by exposing and celebrating everyday materials. ‘I haven’t tried to hide anything away, so you can see how the layers of the house have been built up,’ he says. At either end of the open-plan space, painted brickwork adds texture: ‘Some builders simply add fake brick slips to get this effect, but I used the real thing with bricks traditionally handmade in the Algarve,’ says César. Cabinetry doors and beams are all in warmer timber, while rough concrete is used to cover walls and floors. This was very deliberate: ‘The story is about blending those two building materials, natural wood and the more urban concrete,’ César says. Plenty of interesting architectural elements were incorporated into the design, including a circular stairwell, an
LIVING AREA Painted brickwork brings texture to this space. Try the Hendricks armchair, from £499, John Lewis & Partners. The Danish mid-century table lamp by Temde Leuchten, £850, The Old Cinema, is similar. Hans J Wegner PP Møbler Circle chair, £6,118, Skandium DINING AREA A large industrial-style pendant light complements the cement structure. Hektar pendant, £40, Ikea. Charles and Ray Eames Vitra DSW chairs, from £375 each, The Conran Shop S TA I R C A S E Beautifully grained wooden steps with alternate treads lead to a study area on the mezzanine. Architecture by César Machado Moreira. Labirinto engraving by Bartolomeu Cid dos Santos
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arched doorway and porthole-shaped windows, a reminder of the nearby ocean. ‘I’ve always been fascinated by the organic shape of round windows,’ explains César. They also help the free flow of ventilation from the front to the back of the house. ‘I hate air-conditioning and much prefer the old-fashioned way of keeping a house cool in summer,’ he says. At the entrance, César and Marta have created a modern version of the traditional Portuguese courtyard, a cool and airy tiled space with a circular roof light, again repeating the porthole motif. An external metal gate means the internal front door can be left open on hot days to allow a through breeze. NAUTICAL FEEL
The aqua colour used on the exterior of the house and the frames of the windows and sliding doors adds a hint of maritime freshness. ‘It’s a favourite colour for both of us and we wanted this project to feel personal,’ says Marta. When it came to furnishing their family home, Marta used a mix of old and new. The large dining table, for example, is antique and the vintage Circle chair by Hans J Wegner belonged to Marta’s uncle. ‘Building this home was also a good excuse to buy new items that suit the mood of the house,’ says Marta, who designed the sofa and console herself. ‘Each time we move we “christen” our new home with a piece of art,’ she adds. This time, they chose the large artwork by Vhils, a Portuguese street artist, propped against the wall in the sitting room. Together, César and Marta have created a family home that succeeds in being both modern and traditional, innovative and comfortable. ‘We love it here,’ says Marta. ‘The layout and structure are exactly what we envisaged. And we’ve surrounded ourselves with things that are familiar and reflect the story of our life.’
EN SUITE Birch meets monochrome for a relaxed coastal feel. For similar fittings, try the Austin crosshead black mixer tap, £129.97; Dowa Rola black mixer shower, £259.97, both Soak.com. Renarp pendant light, £25, Ikea GUILHERME’S BEDROOM A vintage poster and a bespoke bunk bed make this a space that will endure as the couple’s son grows. The Oeuf Perch bunk bed, £1,295, Cuckooland, would also suit this space. For a stool like this, try the Alvar Aalto Artek 60 in birch veneer, £195, Twentytwentyone MASTER BEDROOM Bespoke shutters help to keep the room cool. Serge Mouille rotating curved arm sconce lamp, £2,478.39, Istdibs. Try the Birgitta Bengtsson Björk Klippan Yllefabrik diamond throw, £107, Nordic Nest
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FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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SIMPLY
IDYLLIC Nicola Watters and her husband Paul found their sought-after country home in this light-filled farmhouse, which is also the perfect backdrop for Nicola’s paintings of the British coast and countryside
SNUG/ TV ROOM
Checked upholstery fabric adds detail and interest. Slowcoach love seat, £995; Flatster footstool, £395, both Loaf, have the same look. Walls in White Tie estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS PHOTOGRAPHY POLLY ELTES
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icola Watters and her husband Paul were living in the centre of a busy town but had long craved the peace and quite of the countryside. ‘Our three children, Hannah, Melissa and James, were all at school there, but the house was rather cramped and noisy,’ says Nicola. ‘I’d also just started my art business and we really wanted a more tranquil environment.’ The couple promptly began looking for a suitable home in the nearby countryside. ‘I’d grown up close to the sea and I wanted my children to experience a childhood like I’d had,’ says Nicola. After a fairly lengthy property search, she spotted their current home – a spacious farmhouse with a white clapboard exterior and picturesque grounds and gardens – and knew straight away that it ticked all the boxes. ‘It reminded me of the house where I’d lived as
home truths THE PROPERTY 17th-century farmhouse L O C AT I O N Hertfordshire R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, snug/TV room, kitchen-diner, dining room, four bedrooms (three en suite), bathroom, art studio P U R C H A S E D 2009 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We were living in a semi-detached in a town nearby,’ says Nicola.
SITTING ROOM
Nicola has skilfully blended antique furniture and modern upholstery in this relaxing living space. Cleo armchair, £950, Laura Ashley, is similar. Similar framed watercolours, price on request; printed linen cushions, £45 each, all Nicola Watters
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DINING ROOM
The original beamed ceiling gives this space a historic feel. Antique table and chairs, Bushwood Antiques. Framed garden birds prints, £95 each, Nicola Watters
FAVOURITE ROOM ‘ The dining room as it has such a sense of history. We once had a candlelit dinner party and a guest spotted a bat flying around the rafters!’
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DINING AREA
Having their collection of matching crockery on display adds a pretty touch to this bright scheme. Dresser in All White estate eggshell, £64 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Coastal prints, £95 each, Nicola Watters
KITCHEN
a child and when we came to view it, I fell in love with it instantly,’ Nicola says. ‘We had an Enid Blyton moment when we brought the children to see the house and they all ran in and chose their bedrooms!’ The house had recently been renovated so there was little structural work to be done, but Nicola was keen to put her own stamp on the interior. ‘I love shabby-chic style and thought it would be perfect for a big, bustling family house like this one,’ she says. She opted for a restrained neutral palette, including several classic Farrow & Ball shades. ‘I felt muted colours would create a sense of light, peace and calm,’ she says. ‘I also like neutral tones as they’re the perfect backdrop for my wildlife paintings, and they help to bring the outside in. We also bought some country-style furniture, mainly large pieces from antiques fairs, as they were in keeping with the age of the house.’ Combining soft shades of paintwork with period pieces and modern upholstery, Nicola has created a relaxing ambience throughout the house. The decor also highlights Nicola’s love of beautiful objects that reflect the delights of the natural world. Her coastal watercolours, inspired by summers spent in Devon and Cornwall, are displayed on
The Shaker-style oak cabinetry promotes a classic country look. Cabinetry, price on request; Britannia range cooker, around £2,800, all John Lewis & Partners. Tea towels, £14 each, Nicola Watters. Polka dot serving bowl, £49.95, Emma Bridgewater
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Nicola has mixed coastal accessories and pastel tones with plenty of white to give this scheme a seaside feel. Lucy bed, from £520, Sofa.com. Coastal linen cushions, £45 each, Nicola Watters
MASTER BEDROOM
The pale palette and wooden sleigh bed create a relaxing ambience. Try Manoir sleigh bed, £3,835, And So To Bed. Vintage Etienne cushions, from £35 each, The White Company. The vintage table lamp was bought in Japan
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walls throughout the house, alongside botanical paintings inspired closer to home by the flowers in her own garden. Renovating the grounds and garden was also a top priority for Nicola and Paul. ‘I bought a henhouse as soon as we moved here, as well as a beehive and a duck house for the pond,’ says Nicola. ‘I also created areas on the lawn to attract animals, insects and birds. I love to draw wild animals, so I spend a lot of time in the garden.’ The house has had a great influence on the family’s lifestyle, especially for Nicola. ‘I wanted to live in a rural location and we’re surrounded by wildlife, which is inspiring for me as an artist,’ she says. ‘We have our own chickens and enjoy their supply of eggs. We also have an orchard and make our own apple juice. I teach art workshops here, too, and it’s the perfect base for my business.’ Living on top of the hill, the family are able to enjoy the far-reaching views and amazing sunsets. ‘Our house has given our children a wonderful childhood as well as room to breathe and relax,’ she says. ‘When the wind whistles round the windows, it reminds me of where I grew up. The house is spacious and rambling and as we’re all creative by nature, it gives us lots of space to pursue our own interests. It’s the best move we could ever have made.’ FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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SIGNATURE STYLE
Breathe new life into your home with an outstanding Homebase kitchen, designed for effortless cooking, dining and relaxing
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arm, inviting and practical, the kitchen plays a special role within our homes – it’s the social hub we’re drawn to for home-cooked meals and relaxing times with friends and family. However you like to live, Homebase has a design to reflect your style. There are over 50 kitchens to choose from, including cool gloss finishes for an urban look and Country tongue and groove with a relaxed appeal. In the luxurious Copperbridge collection panelled doors with textured woodgrain finishes come in enticing painted finishes. Try contrasting rich Plum with a neutral shade to make a bold, individual impression.
PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS
One of the essentials for a practical workstation is getting the layout and choice of units just right in order to be able to move around the kitchen logically and comfortably. At Homebase, cupboards and drawers glide smoothly and close softly, and cleverly designed internal storage options make everything practical. With a wide selection of handles, taps, appliances and lighting to customise the kitchen, it’s easy to give your room a polished finish. To pull the new look together beautifully, use the visualiser at homebase.co.uk where you can check out units alongside flooring, worktops and more.
Copperbridge Artisan kitchen in Plum, Homebase
FEATURE CAROLINE RODRIGUES
BROAD EXPERTISE
At a free design and planning consultation with a Homebase kitchen expert, you can explore all the options available to you in detail, from the initial concept all the way to delivery and fitting. The kitchens come with a guarantee of up to 15 years so you can be sure that you’re getting value for money, and there’s the option of 0% APR interest-free credit, too.
Country kitchen in Light Blue, Homebase
FIND OUT MORE Book a free design and planning appointment to discuss your ideas with the City & Guilds accredited kitchen experts at homebase.co.uk 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020 | 67
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Recipe for success With their flair for art and design, Lucy and Ludo Mackenzie have created a bright, inviting home that’s ideal for family life – and a new sauce-making business FEATURE MAGGIE COLVIN | PHOTOGRAPHY ROBERT SANDERSON
home truths THE PROPERTY Edwardian townhouse L O C AT I O N Southwest London R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner/living area, cinema, study, cloakroom, five bedrooms (three en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2016 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in a two-up, two-down cottage nearby,’ says Lucy.
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KITCHEN-DINER
The oak cabinets are bespoke – designed to Lucy’s specifications and made by her builder. Units painted in Pale Powder and Teresa’s Green estate eggshell, both £64 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Weathered oak counter stools, £195 each, Cox & Cox
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DINING AREA
Double-height roof glazing has transformed this space and floods it with light. Bespoke orangery, Town and Country. Gustavian dining chairs, ÂŁ295 each, Susie Watson Designs
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hen Lucy and Ludo Mackenzie began to feel the pinch in their cosy urban cottage, they knew it was time for an upgrade. But finding their dream home proved to be less than straightforward. ‘After months of searching, the only house we could find that was large enough in our price range needed an awful lot of work,’ remembers Lucy. ‘It probably hadn’t been touched for over 30 years.’ Inheriting artistic genes from both sides of the family – Lucy from her mother, a celebrated painter and cook, and Ludo from his father, a famous sculptor and also a cook – the
vaulted roof light was added. The space is approached through double doors and a flight of eight steps leading from the hallway. ‘As you walk through the front door on the higher level, you’re greeted by a view of this tall space and the garden beyond,’ says Lucy. Light pours in from above and through double sets of Georgian-style French doors, which open onto the garden – and this has become the heart of the home. ‘We live in this space,’ says Lucy. ‘It has been brilliant for our children, Jack, now 15, Bo, 12, and Isla, eight. They can entertain friends here, as can Ludo and I.’ The pair were both brought up in the countryside – Ludo
The elegantly shaped sofa is the perfect base for a mix of patterns. Velvet sofa, £3,600, The Conran Shop. Chelak rug, £595, Oka
DESIGN STYLE ‘We like having a mix of old and new pieces throughout our home. It adds interest, creating that typically English eclectic, layered look’
duo were fairly confident that their combined skills would take them over the hurdles. And the property certainly had plenty of those. ‘Despite the worn-out cork floors, lack of showers and no large room for entertaining, we could see the house had huge potential,’ recalls Lucy. ‘There was a lovely attic studio stretching the whole width of the property, with a high vaulted ceiling, and we wanted to recreate that same feel on the floors below.’ The couple had been collecting magazine cuttings in readiness for the day they found their forever home, and at last they were able to draw upon them. ‘They were a huge source of inspiration as we began to plan,’ says Lucy. ‘We were particularly influenced by one cutting of a spectacular double-height 18th-century orangery, which we copied for the design of our dining area.’ To achieve the desired double height, the floor was scooped out, then a handsome
in Sussex and Lucy in Suffolk – and their relaxed bedroom schemes epitomise the rural look. A counterpoint to Lucy’s soft Suffolk palette, several modern paintings provide pops of colour throughout the interior and contrast with the more traditional fabric patterns and family antiques. Along with the orangery, the most loved and lived-in part of the house is the kitchen, where Lucy works out her sauce recipes – the core of her new business, Lucy’s Dressings. After taking a course at Prue Leith’s cooking school, Lucy worked with her father-in-law, restaurateur Nigel Mackenzie. ‘I had creative heights to match up to,’ she smiles. And when she’s not busy concocting new dressings or getting her family involved in tastings, Lucy loves to cook for groups of friends. ‘Having an expansive floor area around the kitchen means that we can entertain 30 to 40 people and it never feels too crowded.’
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
MASTER BEDROOM
An antique bed makes a classic centrepiece. Antoinette bed in weathered oak, £1,095, Loaf, has this style
BEDROOM Palest pink has a restful feel. Toile Trellis, £91 a roll, Wallpaper Direct, is similar
BATHROOM
Carrara marble brings pattern to the scheme. Marble vanity unit, Drummonds
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THE LONG VIEW Catherine and Simon Davis haven’t looked back since buying the dilapidated farmhouse they once shunned FEATURE JANET McMEEKIN | PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL
H A L LWAY As this space is north-facing, Catherine opted for pale tones throughout to keep it light and bright. Walls in Bone estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Charlecote lantern in Matt Black, £630.70, Jim Lawrence, has this style. Kubu rattan rectangle extra large log basket, £72, Wovenhill, is similar
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DINING ROOM The dresser, made from old oak timbers, displays a collection of classic blue and white ceramics. For a similar dresser, try Spencer Swaffer Antiques. Painted iron candlesticks, £68 each, Country Home Antiques. Find similar Victorian carver chairs at 1stdibs
home truths THE PROPERTY Detached farmhouse, built in 1599; modernised in Georgian style during the mid-1700s L O C AT I O N North Norfolk R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, family room, dining room, kitchen-diner, utility room, six bedrooms, three bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 2003 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in a five-bedroom home in Surrey,’ says Catherine.
SITTING ROOM Natural textures and a neutral palette with soft blue accents combine for a relaxing ambience. Ticking Stripe cushion cover, £15, Secret Linen Store, has this style. For a similar curtain fabric, try Embroidered Malathi, £95m, Susie Watson Designs
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aving decided to move to Norfolk following a lifechanging event, Catherine Davis felt her heart soar when she caught sight of a tiny advert for an elegant period property in a magazine. ‘On paper, it looked incredibly promising,’ she says, ‘and the rural location was idyllic.’ But when she and her husband, Simon, drove from their Surrey home to view it, their hopes were quickly dashed. ‘Inside, the house was languishing in a time warp,’ says Catherine. ‘The decor was ghastly, with
KITCHEN The gothic-style door was sourced from a police station and cut to fit perfectly into the original doorway space. Granite worksurface, price on request, Premier Marble. For a similar bench, try Country Home Antiques. For a wide range of letters, try The Vintage Wall
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bottle-green tiles, purple carpets, luminous yellow walls and nylon curtains.’ Within 20 minutes, the couple walked out. Weeks later, they returned to look again with open minds, focusing on the period features including the sweeping staircase, inglenook fireplaces, original sash windows and gnarled beams. ‘We could see that this farmhouse offered more scope than we’d first imagined,’ Catherine says. At that time, in late 2002, the couple were hankering after a larger home in a rural setting for themselves, twin daughters,
Sophie and Flora, now 24, and son, Ben, 21. While considering their decision, a terrifying car incident, from which Simon thankfully escaped unhurt, galvanised them into action. They put their home on the market and, without a survey, took a leap of faith, buying the farmhouse, complete with 14 acres. ‘We knew it would be gruelling, as we were on a tight budget and would have to do much of the work ourselves,’ Catherine says. The jobs entailed replumbing, rewiring, sandblasting, stripping, tiling and flooring, replacing windows and installing a new
c ountry | 25bh
FOR INFORMATION ABOUT HOLIDAY COTTAGE LETS, GO TO NORFOLKCOURTYARD.CO.UK AND STAYINWELLS.COM
MASTER BEDROOM Catherine has embraced French country style for a romantic, relaxing feel, with beautiful faded florals, painted furniture and framed samplers. Headboard upholstered in Roses; antique French sofa in Roses Blue, both £78m, Kate Forman
kitchen and bathroom, as the property had not been touched in 80 years. Within days of moving in, the couple removed the 1950s fireplace and reinstated a ten-foot-wide inglenook with its beautiful herringbone bricks. Attractive brickwork was also uncovered behind the ‘dreadful’ panelling in the dining room, where they decided to expose the entire wall. Not surprisingly, the major renovation gave rise to many memorable moments. ‘I’ll never forget the time a friend came round for supper,’ says Catherine. ‘One minute
she was standing in the living room in her stilettos; the next she’d fallen through the wooden floor! A close inspection revealed the cause of the incident was deathwatch beetle – everything in that room, from joists to floorboards, had to be replaced.’ From the outset, Catherine’s vision for the interior was traditional with a modern country twist. ‘I tend to go for pale palettes for a fresh, light look, with textured and patterned soft furnishings bringing interest and warmth. Lots of natural wood, exposed beams and rustic brick make a
lovely backdrop for our furniture and paintings.’ Along with restoring their home, the hardworking pair have renovated several holiday cottages to let and also launched a thriving business, Country Home Antiques, which is run by Simon. Catherine and Simon have no regrets about moving to Norfolk or taking a gamble on the property. ‘It’s incredible to think we once turned our backs on this farmhouse,’ says Catherine. ‘We have poured our hearts and souls into its restoration and created a very happy home that we all adore.’
B AT H R O O M With wattle-anddaub walls and a vaulted ceiling, this room is a tranquil sanctuary. Burlington Windsor roll-top bath, £907.99, Drench, is similar
BEDROOM Young visitors love this inviting space. Rose Bed linen set, from £39, The White Company, has this look
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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HEIGHT of FASHION Gayle Rinkoff was eager to reinstate the character that had been stripped from her Victorian home FEATURE JULIET BENNING | PHOTOGRAPHY ANNA YANOVSKI
home truths THE PROPERTY Victorian semi-detached L O C AT I O N North London R O O M S Hallway, sitting room/dining area, family room, kitchen, office, cloakroom, five bedrooms, four bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 2014 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We were in a smaller terrace house nearby,’ says Gayle.
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F A M I LY R O O M Touches of brass and gold add mid-century glamour to this space. Ottilie chaise corner sofa, from £2,444, Love Your Home. Curtains in Va Va Frome in Sunset Velvet, £110m, Pearl Lowe at Woodchip & Magnolia
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SITTING ROOM A warm parquet wood floor connects the sitting room/dining area, family room and kitchen, with rugs giving each section its distinct character. Cashmere chevron flooring, Ted Todd, has the same look. Vaserely circular rug, £349, Made
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hen Gayle Rinkoff first viewed this Victorian house with her husband, Karsten, she braced herself for a negative reaction. As a fashion and celebrity stylist with a love of colour, Gayle is strongly influenced by aesthetics – follow her on Instagram @gaylerinkoff – and knowing this, Karsten had warned her: ‘Keep an open mind, because you’re going to walk in and hate it!’ The house had been stripped of cornicing, skirting boards and fireplaces, but with an open-plan ground floor and kitchen extension, it did provide the extra space that the family craved. ‘Karsten had moved into my house with me and my twins, Marni and Sienna. We then became five after our daughter Leni was born eight years ago, and Karsten was on a mission to find us a new place,’ she says. The process of buying the house was smooth, but the greater challenge of the interior transformation lay ahead. Fortunately, Gayle’s friend Emma Gurner, of design company Folds Inside, was able to step into the breach. ‘I felt overwhelmed by the amount of choice and I needed Emma to edit my options, which she did brilliantly,’ Gayle says. The house was lacking personality and Emma was keen to focus on this issue. ‘I wanted to tap into Gayle’s own style and her love of colour to give the house a rich character,’ says Emma. Gayle briefed Emma that, in this
DINING AREA The colours of the energetic floral wallpaper are cleverly echoed in the dining chairs to unite the space. Ava Marika Electric wallpaper, £85 a roll, Woodchip & Magnolia. Eames DSW chairs, £375 each, Vitra at Heal’s
25bh | c it y MASTER BEDROOM Rich burgundy walls were softened with a pretty pale pink ceiling, while sumptuous velvet curtains add the feel of a luxury hotel. Curtains in Lapis Royal Velvet, £87m, Designers Guild. Artwork by The Art in Carter
CLOAKROOM A striking chinoiserie-inspired wallpaper brings personality to this small space. Aurora wallpaper in Chartreuse, £185 a roll, House of Hackney. Bardot ceramic tiles, price on request, Grestec Tiles
mostly female household, the new interior was to have a ‘girly feel’, and the request was delivered with a highly original twist. In the family room, the powder pink walls have been set off to ravishing effect by a startling olive-green ceiling. ‘The olive ceiling gives a rich, sumptuous feel,’ Emma notes. ‘It’s really unusual and an example of how much trust we had in Emma. We just let her do her thing and it always paid off,’ Gayle enthuses. Emma also suggested adding wood beading to reinstate some of the architectural detailing that had been stripped out. ‘I spent the day with a carpenter drawing out where the panels were to go and he applied the lightweight beading to the wall with glue,’ Emma explains. In the loft, which the couple had converted since buying the property, 15-year-old Marni and Sienna’s rooms are connected via a Jack and Jill bathroom. Emma created mood boards and Sienna opted for a vivacious pink scheme. ‘I would have loved a bedroom like this when I was younger,’ says Gayle. Downstairs, a portrait of Debbie Harry above the reclaimed fireplace creates a charismatic focal point. ‘The Blondie print offers the perfect counterpoint to the period elegance of the room,’ Emma observes. But this house, so drenched in colour and vibrancy, may well have turned out differently. ‘Karsten is Danish, so he wanted something minimal and Scandinavian,’ says Gayle. ‘It’s definitely more my style than his, but he loves it now!’ 8 0 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
S I E N N A’ S R O O M Emma put together ‘a cocktail of fruity colours’ for this spirited scheme. Money Tree wallpaper in Valentine, £115 a roll, Poodle & Blonde. Walls in Pink Powderpuff eggshell, £86.50 for 3.79ltr, Benjamin Moore. Urnie table lamp, £72, Pooky
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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DEEP CLEAN
Freshen up your bathroom for spring with this handy trio from Marigold
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pring traditionally acts as a gentle reminder to give our homes a thorough clean, and the family bathroom is an excellent place to start. Even the mildest of cleaning solutions can dry out your skin, so using rubber gloves is always a preferable option. At more than 70 years old, Marigold is the UK’s number one gloves brand* and household staple. However, did you know that Marigold now offers more than just gloves?
Keep your bathroom sparkling clean with Marigold
*SOURCE: IRI, TOTAL UK MARKET VALUE SALES FOR THE HOUSEHOLD GLOVES CATEGORY, FOR THE PERIOD COMPRISING 52 WEEKS ENDING ON 14 SEPTEMBER 2019. **RESEARCH BY EASY BATHROOMS
STREAK-FREE AND SPARKLING
Marigold’s Squeaky Clean Microfibre Cloth, £1.99, is a cleaning cloth and buffer in one. It features the deep-cleaning power of microfibre, plus a super-absorbent coating, which gives a streak-free finish on shiny surfaces and glass. Perfect for cleaning the shower screen, mirrors, tiles and taps, it’s also machine-washable, so can be used time and time again. EXTRA PROTECTION
Boasting extra-long wrists and special roll-top cuffs (so they stay up and don’t roll down letting water in), Marigold’s Longer Bathroom Gloves, £2.70 a pair, provide your arms with extra protection from splashes. They are great for tackling trickier jobs, like cleaning the loo, plus they are aqua coloured, so you won’t mix them up with your kitchen gloves! A L L E R G Y- F R E E O P T I O N
Those with sensitive skin or allergies to latex can often find home maintenance irritating (on many levels). Marigold’s Multi-Purpose Disposable Gloves, £4.99 for a pack of 40, are 100% latex-free and powder-free. They offer an excellent grip, fit and sensitivity, like a second skin, so you can achieve the perfect finish as you touch up paintwork or reseal the shower.
did you know? G E R M H O T S P O T Sinks hold a shocking 250,000% more germs than a toilet flush handle**. So don’t forget to don your Marigolds!
FIND OUT MORE Find your nearest stockist at marigold.co.uk
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home truths THE PROPERTY Victorian farmhouse with a converted 18th-century barn L O C AT I O N Friesland, The Netherlands R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen-diner, office, three bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2015 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We had a semi-detached house in central Netherlands,’ says Margriet.
TAKING THE PLUNGE Converting a waterside barn could have been daunting for Margriet and Gerard Burgers, but in the end it was plain sailing FEATURE SEAN O’CONNELL | STYLING SJOUKJE DE VRIES PHOTOGRAPHY ANNA DE LEEUW/COCO FEATURES
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SITTING ROOM The dark blue floor and ceiling create a dramatic effect. Floor and ceiling in Stiffkey Blue modern eggshell, £71 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Trizo 21 chandelier, €1,765, AndLight. Montis Felix lounge chair, from £1,600, Momentum. Rug Mono, from £165, HomeArama, is similar
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KITCHEN Stainless-steel worktops and concrete flooring add an industrial touch. Bespoke kitchen by Studio Slow. For similar polished concrete floors, try The Micro Cement Company, price on request
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DINING AREA A generous-size table is ideal for family gatherings. Arco Trestle dining table, price on request, Architonic. Carl Hansen CH26 dining chairs, ÂŁ1,050 each, Cimmermann. Santa & Cole GT5 pendant lights, ÂŁ408 each, Paper Rooms
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b e s t b u y ‘The orange lampshades because they make a real statement’
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D
utch boating enthusiasts Margriet and Gerard Burgers had long dreamt of moving to an area where they could indulge their passion. And their chance came when they both gave up their jobs in 2015. ‘We wanted a change, so when we saw this canal waterfront property, it seemed an amazing opportunity,’ says Margriet. The house in question was a renovated farm building in the middle of the Frisian Lakes region, in northern Holland. ‘When Gerard and I first came to view the place, we were seduced by its charm,’ says Margriet. ‘It was clear there would be plenty to do to the massive barn, with its attached brick farmhouse, but we knew we now had time on our hands so, rather nervously, we bought it.’ Far from choosing an easy life, the couple realised that as this is a popular tourist area, the property was a business
opportunity waiting to happen. The plan was to renovate the farmhouse and front part of the connecting barn to live in, and construct holiday apartments to rent within the rest of the barn. However, their main focus was creating a sociable home that would be perfect for when their grown-up children came to visit. ‘While we wanted to modernise the place, we were keen to retain its sense of history – the barn dates back to 1770 and the house is Victorian,’ says Margriet. Because of the protected status of the barn, none of the new internal rooms and structures could come into contact with the old trusses. ‘It was tricky but luckily we had an architect who combined his good ideas with our own,’ she adds. The result is a home that encompasses new and old with amazing style. The main reception rooms are in the farmhouse, so they retain the charm that first enchanted the couple,
but with a modern twist. ‘I loved creating the colour scheme throughout, particularly in the sitting room, with its blue theme,’ says Margriet. The contemporary feel continues in the couple’s bedroom, situated within the structure of the barn. Walls lined with light oak and pine add the necessary warmth as well as confirming the Scandinavian feel they love so much. But of all the spaces, it is perhaps the dining room that Margriet and Gerard feel most proud of – and rightly so. ‘This is where we all gather when the family are together and it is also a great place to entertain friends,’ says Margriet. So are the couple happy with how their new house – and their new life – has turned out? ‘This is a lovely village to live in and it has a real sense of community,’ says Margriet. ‘And with sailing facilities literally on our doorstep, we lead a healthy life, too. Who wouldn’t be happy?’
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MASTER BEDROOM The modernity of the furniture is matched by striking pendant lighting. Fontana Arte Albedo pendant lights, £466 each, Ambiente
TO RENT AN APARTMENT AT ATTEMA-SATE VISIT ATTEMA-SATE.NL
B AT H R O O M Simplicity is the order of the day here. Stool CC, price on request, Architonic. Duravit Cape Cod back-to-wall bath, £2,804, RSF Bathrooms
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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home truths T H E P R O P E R T Y Terraced Georgian villa, built in 1746 L O C AT I O N North Essex R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, snug, kitchen-diner, larder, cloakroom, two bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom, studio annexe P U R C H A S E D 2018 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We were in a five-bedroom villa in Aldeburgh, Suffolk,’ says Anna.
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ARTIST’S IMPRE SSION
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SITTING ROOM
Eye-catching paintings and a coffee table of art books set the theme for this scheme. Similar white leather sofa, from £2,000, Sofa Italia. Cushions, from £29.50, India Jane and Dix-Sept Antiques. Original etchings by Anna Toppin. Floor lamp, £109, Made. Walls in Slaked Lime absolute matt emulsion, £45 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Right: Similar Melchior d’Hondecoeter print, from £50, National Gallery Shop
Prominent colours and a stylish sophistication meet in this historic townhouse, which has been a decorating dream for artist Anna Toppin FEATURE CIARA ELLIOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHAEL SMITH
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KITCHEN
An Aga stove keeps the basement space warm all day long and was in situ when Anna bought the house. Marrakech splashback tiles, £85sq m, Bromley & Fitch. Titan 1 pendants in aluminium, £149.95 each, Original BTC at The Conran Shop, have a similar look
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ith its original panelling, sash windows and wide wooden floorboards, artist Anna Toppin was immediately captivated when she first viewed this Grade II-listed house in Essex. And when she saw the garden annexe that would become her studio, she was sold. ‘Some of my oldest and dearest friends lived just across the street, so when the house went up for sale, I was one of the first to view it,’ says Anna. ‘It had been done so tastefully by the previous owners – I just wanted to put my own stamp on it.’ While the decor had been carefully considered, it needed to be freshened up. One of the first things Anna did was repaint. ‘The 9 0 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
previous owners loved dark colours and fabrics, and the house was very cosy but also a little bit claustrophobic,’ she says. ‘The first weekend I moved in, I repainted all the walls in lighter colours, which instantly felt fresher and more me.’ Anna’s previous job was as a set designer for TV, so she’s very hands-on when it comes to DIY, and also knows a thing or two about setting the scene. The look that she wanted to achieve here was all about accentuating the historic roots of the 270-year-old house, while bringing it into the 21st century. ‘I find a lot of my pieces at auction and brocantes, although there were many lovely things left here by the previous owners, too,’ she says. ‘Some of
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DINING AREA
The kitchen is double aspect and overlooks the courtyard garden. ‘It looks gorgeous in the evening with the outdoor lights turned on,’ says Anna. Eero Saarinen-inspired Tulip dining table, £695, Only Home
DECOR ATING TIP ‘For me, decorating evolves around the objects and furniture I’ve collected over the years. I end up with quite an eccentric and eclectic style’
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MASTER BEDROOM
Striking blue walls make the cream furnishings stand out. Clifton ivory bed frame, £850, Laura Ashley
Best buy ‘I love my Chinese stools, which are dotted all over the house. Some were bought at auction and some are from Oka, which is a favourite shop’
BEDROOM
‘Adding the fun wallpaper has given thisroomanewlease of life,’ says Anna. For similar wallpaper, try Stars, £80 a roll, Cole & Son
BATHROOM
A freestanding bath has been placed elegantly under the eaves. Apollo roll-top bath, POA, The Albion Bath Company
EN SUITE
A glimpse of distinctive wallpaper adds interest. Komodo wallpaper, £130 a roll, Osborne & Little
the bigger mirrors and two large chaises were items that I arranged to buy, while many of the pieces I brought in have been acquired over the years while also sourcing for TV jobs.’ Some areas of the house needed more than a simple lick of paint and new furniture however. The kitchen, which is at basement level, felt too dark and ‘cave-like’, but in order to open it up for more space and light, some building work was required. ‘I had repainted the kitchen in four coats of white before realising it would always be dingy in there,’ Anna says. ‘Eventually, I took advice and decided to replace the original window, which was small and not much use, with a copy of the front sitting room 92 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
window, which is the size of an old Georgian shop window. Now the whole room is open to the garden.’ Anna is no stranger to a renovation project either. She spent the first years of married life renovating an old Suffolk rectory where she brought up her two daughters, Zara and Saskia, who are now both in their early thirties. Later she renovated a villa by the sea in Suffolk. ‘I actually still dream of that property, but I’m also completely entranced by my new life here,’ says Anna. ‘My favourite thing is to wake up and hear the birds, and I love being able to perch in my kitchen window seat with my morning coffee. I really couldn’t be happier.’ FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
welcome to the world of
The one-stop edit of the best modern style inspiration and design ideas
PASTURES
NEW
The grass really is greener for Erik Odell-Romanoff and his wife Tori, who left London for a life in the country FEATURE AMY MAYNARD | PHOTOGRAPHY RICHARD GADSBY
SITTING ROOM Soft furnishings in vibrant colours stand out against the neutral white-green walls. Walls in Old White estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Ottoman in Boheme, £132m, Manuel Canovas. Find a similar leather and brass club fender, £3,600, 1stdibs
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home truths THE PROPERTY Cottage, built in 1826 L O C AT I O N Kent R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, playroom, cloakroom, four bedrooms, bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2013 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in a house in southwest London,’ says Tori.
DINING AREA Traditional furniture works perfectly alongside the exposed beams and brick inglenook. The Cotswold Company’s Wiltshire painted kitchen table, £249, is comparable. The couple sourced the chairs at an auction; find stick-back designs at Tudor Oak, price on request
SITTING ROOM Eclectic art and quirky antiques bring a strong sense of personality to this space. The lighthouse painting is by Erik’s artist brother, Misha Rostislav Romanov
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ine years ago, Erik Odell-Romanoff, his wife Tori and their baby son Harry upped sticks from London and moved in with Tori’s sister in rural Hertfordshire while their house underwent an overhaul. They moved back into the property nine months later, but by that time they had been bitten by the countryside bug. In 2013, their daughter Thea came along, and the couple realised London life was no longer for them. ‘One evening, not long after Thea was born, Erik said to me, ‘‘Shall we move to the countryside?” And that was it. We put our house on the market the next day,’ says Tori. Next, the couple faced the dilemma of where to relocate to. ‘We knew we wanted to live in Kent,’ says Tori. ‘So we drew a triangle between London, where Erik works, and both our sets of parents and chose the middle point.’ Soon after, the family piled in the car to go and check out the area. On leaving the M20, they were met by astounding views of the Stour Valley. Their minds were made up. While house-hunting online in this area, they found a beautiful weatherboarded cottage – and knew they had to see it. ‘We went to view it straight away and put in an offer right afterwards, which, thankfully, was accepted.’ A few months later, the house was theirs. The wisteria-clad property is nestled in the valley, with pretty green window frames offsetting the white cladding. At the bottom of the garden lies a seating area with a breathtaking vista of the countryside. When they bought
KITCHEN Beautiful vertical timber beams help to separate this space from the dining area. Rustic pre-sealed rectangular terracotta floor tiles, £49.95sq m, Baked Earth, are a good alternative
KITCHEN Rustic painted shelves add country charm. Try Le Parfait’s super preserve jars, from £7.75 each. The Cornish 12oz mug, £15, Cornishware, is a match
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it, the house was in good shape but needed some updating. They also planned to convert part of the upstairs landing into Thea’s nursery, turning it into a four-bedroom home. Erik, who works for designer Staffan Tollgard, oversaw the project, drawing on all his skills. The house features a stunning inglenook fireplace in the dining area, which Erik limewashed himself. The couple also had the dark beams lightened to give the cottage a brighter feel. They revamped the kitchen with new tiles and removed the overhead cupboards, replacing them with open shelving crafted by Erik. They opted for a calming palette of neutrals for the walls and have filled the house with pieces that reflect their love of travelling and Erik’s American heritage. ‘We have collected things from almost everywhere we’ve been to,’ says Tori. As well as souvenirs brought back from various holidays, there is also a smattering of US flag motifs and reclaimed shutters on the sitting room wall that lend a New England feel. Tori and Erik describe their style as ‘modern classical, with a touch of clutter’. ‘I’m a maximalist,’ says Erik. ‘Our style is comfortable and relaxed.’ It’s clear that the family are finally living in a part of the country that suits them perfectly. ‘One of our favourite things to do is take the children for a walk, meet friends for a drink by the fire in the pub, then all pile back to ours for a roast dinner,’ says Erik. Tori couldn’t agree more. ‘I was a complete city girl,’ she says. ‘My friends just couldn’t picture me living down here. But it’s ideal for us all.’
MASTER BEDROOM Blue and white tones create a fresh scheme. Try the Windowpane Check throw, €110, Foxford Woollen Mills. Blue Isle’s blue Ikat cushion, £25, would also work here
BEDROOM Checks and toile combine to charming effect. Clarke & Clarke Loch in Duck Egg, £27m, Jane Clayton, is a similar headboard fabric. Try the Blitz Toile fabric, £67.20m, F&P Interiors
B AT H R O O M The couple chose a traditional tub combined with a monochrome palette for a modern feel. The Duke 1795 traditional roll-top bath, £399.95, Victorian Plumbing, would suit this setting
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DESIGN FOR LIFE Imagination, hard work and a leap of faith have all gone into creating Eliza Price’s forever home FEATURE SHARON PARSONS | PHOTOGRAPHY RICHARD GADSBY
LIVING AREA
What was once a dilapidated conservatory is now a welcoming seating area in the open-plan kitchen and dining space. Bespoke L-shaped sofa, Eliza Price Interiors; upholstered in Umbra in Red, £84m, and Alvaro in Pale Red, £64m; cushions in Soleo in Red and Stone, £78m, all Jane Churchill. Coffee table, £2,995, Starbay
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home truths THE PROPERTY Edwardian country house L O C AT I O N Devon R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner/living area, utility room, cloakroom, snug, five bedrooms (two en suite), bathroom, two cellar rooms currently used as office space P U R C H A S E D 2003 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in London but also had a small semi nearby,’ says Eliza.
KITCHEN
Eliza searched for many months before finding the perfect cabinetry. Bespoke kitchen units, Handmade Kitchen Company; painted in Mushroom and Double Mushroom acrylic eggshell, £65 for 2.5ltr, Zoffany. Splashback in Field tiles in Burgundy, £79.95sq m, Original Style
DINING AREA
Eliza designed the square oak table herself. Bespoke table, made by Orpago. Leaf chandelier, £3,024, Vaughan; Eliza made the shades in Mazely in Red, £72m, Colefax and Fowler
SITTING ROOM
Painting the fireplace brickwork the same colour as the walls allows it to blend into rather than dominate the room. Trianon mirrors, £575 each, Oka. For a similar purple armchair, look at Snowdrop Small in Plum Smart Velvet, £890, Sofa.com
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hen Eliza Price told her mother that she and her husband Jeremy were buying a rambling Edwardian house, she tried to warn them against it fearing that it was too big a commitment to take on. ‘To be fair, she did have a point,’ says Eliza. At the time, the couple were both living and working in London, but Eliza is originally from Devon and always knew she wanted to settle in that part of the world. Their decision to view the property was more from curiosity than a realistic expectation. ‘We never really thought we could buy it,’ says Eliza of the country house in 15 acres, which also included a separate house and outbuildings used as a cattery. However, despite the tired decor and long list of repairs needed, the house was extremely spacious and the proportions were beautiful. It took the couple almost eight months to secure a mortgage, but finally the house – and all its various additions – was theirs. ‘We even had our wedding reception here with a big marquee on the lawn,’ says Eliza, ‘but then we had to get practical and start to work out how we were actually going to turn it into the home we wanted for our future family.’
E A R LY D AY S
The house had a self-contained flat upstairs with a separate entrance, which they were able to rent out initially, and they also sold the house in the grounds. Jeremy continued to work mostly in London, while Eliza took on the cattery, alongside running a bed-and-breakfast business. ‘There was so much we wanted to do,’ she recalls, ‘but, as with all old houses, the basics needed a lot of attention.’ For a quick update, Eliza used her sewing skills to make curtains and cushions, alongside using a lick of paint to give the rooms a more habitable and welcoming feel. Several years went by, during which time their two daughters 10 0 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
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Jemima, now 14, and Luella, 13, were born, before the couple could finally go ahead with their plans. These included knocking down the wall between the dining room and small kitchen to create one big space, replacing a plastic-framed conservatory with an open-plan seating area, and removing a bay window at the front and adding generous French doors leading out to the terrace. BESPOKE DESIGN
The kitchen was designed by Eliza. ‘I knew what I wanted but couldn’t find the right person to make it for me,’ she says. ‘Then by chance I came across a kitchen company in Essex and really liked the examples of its work. It was a bit of a risk as we had to liaise a lot over the phone and by email, but the units fitted the space perfectly. An eclectic mix of furniture – antique, contemporary and pieces specially designed by Eliza – is set off with beautiful combinations of textiles, all of which add warmth, life and interest to every scheme. ‘I wanted to respect the character and original features of the house, but give it all a more updated and unexpected twist,’ she explains. NEW HORIZONS
After taking an intensive course in making soft furnishings, Eliza quickly established a business in the area, and it wasn’t long before she was also being asked for decorating advice and assistance by her clients. Soon the former cattery at the bottom of the drive had been transformed into Eliza’s studio and workspace, brimming with fabric books, samples and mood boards. After all their years of hard work, Eliza and Jeremy have no doubt that this is their ‘forever home’. ‘We’ve been lucky enough to be able to use our house to make a living in various ways, and there’s enough space for both of us to work from here easily,’ says Eliza. ‘More than that, though, it’s a wonderful family home that seems to have a special spirit of its own.’
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MASTER BEDROOM
An eye-catching table lamp and a vintage bedside cabinet painted in deep blue add personality to the scheme. Archer table lamp in Gold/Navy, £100, Laura Ashley. Vintage cabinet in Reign Blue acrylic eggshell, £65 for 2.5ltr, Zoffany
LUELLA’S BEDROOM A fresh and fun look is achieved courtesy of the sweetie-box colour palette. Élitis Kandy Brit Pop wallpaper, £217.60 a roll, Abbott & Boyd
MASTER EN SUITE
Wallpaper with coordinating panelling creates the wow factor. Wisteria wallpaper, £76.80 a roll, Jocelyn Warner at Wallpapers.co.uk. Panelling in Purple Basil eggshell, £30 for 1ltr, Designers Guild
Turning on the charm
home truths THE PROPERTY 17th-century thatched cottage L O C AT I O N Devon R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, cloakroom, conservatory, three bedrooms (one en suite), two bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 2014 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in a 1930s house 10 miles away,’ says Alison.
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A friendly village pub was one of the many delights that lured Alison and Steve Chipperfield to this cottage in the country FEATURE SEÁN O’CONNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BRUCE HEMMING
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DINING ROOM
The antique French table and chairs enhance the relaxed ambience of this space, which is ideal for entertaining. French Provencal White rattan dining chairs, £195 each, La Maison Chic, are a similar style
CONSERVATORY
An oak-frame structure ensures that this room sits comfortably in its wooded surroundings. Ektorp two-seat sofa, £250, Ikea. Villager Flatmate woodburning stove, £690, UK Stoves
FAVOURITE ITEM ‘I love the handmade wooden chairs in the conservatory – they are so detailed and beautifully executed’
CONSERVATORY
The chairs were made by the couple’s son and Steve made the table out of reclaimed wood. Wooden chairs by Ben Tcharny, price on request. The Callowhill coffee table, £173.99, Wayfair, would work here
KITCHEN
Shaker-style units were installed and Alison and Steve gave the worktops a new lease of life by sanding them down and oiling them. For reclaimed quarry tiles, from £1.95 each, try UKAA. Organic Ticking, £37.50m, Ian Mankin, is a similar blind fabric
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An all-white scheme lets the warm wood shine. King-size sleigh bed, £548, Crown French Furniture. Soft Cloud Berber carpet, £11.99sq m, Online Carpets. Biggie Best sells similar floral cushions, from £26.50
BEDROOM
The dusty pink wall hue adds a soft, rustic look. Walls in Setting Plaster estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Try Croft Collection Chunky Knit throw, £70, John Lewis & Partners
INSPIR ATION ‘I’m always changing the decoration. My best ideas come from interiors magazines – and from looking at other people’s houses!’
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hen Alison and Steve Chipperfield were considering buying a 17th-century cottage in Devon, their only reservation was whether it could accommodate the whole family at Christmas – a crucial factor for a couple with six grown-up sons between them. They were charmed by the rural setting and the village pub. ‘We had visited it many times,’ says Alison. ‘It was very friendly and the thought of it being just a short walk away did sway us a little.’ But what clinched the decision to buy was discovering that the cottage had a converted barn with bedrooms, giving them the extra space they needed. On moving in, the pair set to work on decorating. ‘The decor wasn’t to our taste, so we had to spruce it up and make it look 10 4 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
more homely,’ says Alison. ‘We both have an eye for interiors, so we chose the colour schemes and furnishings together.’ Alison was particularly drawn to the kitchen, which was housed in a Victorian addition to the cottage. ‘The cabinetry was tired, so we replaced it, but the worktops were perfectly good, if a bit shabby, so we simply sanded and oiled them,’ she says. As a set of chairs was needed to go with their French antique dining table, the pair set off to the continent to look for some. ‘We spend our summers in France and love trawling the antiques shops,’ says Alison. They found the perfect pieces then squeezed them into the car for what they describe as a ‘cosy’ journey back to the UK. Although most of Alison and Steve’s furniture was from their previous home,
it suited the natural charm of the cottage, with its oak beams and inglenook fireplaces, and nowhere more so than in the oakframed conservatory. ‘Sitting in here, with a view on three sides, you feel so much a part of the surrounding greenery,’ says Alison. The decor throughout exudes a calmness that reflects the building’s age and feel. Not that anything stays still for long: ‘I’m always redecorating and moving furniture around – and we love buying new paintings, which we have to make space for,’ says Alison. Six years after moving in, the couple are well and truly settled here and love life in their friendly community. As for the house itself: ‘It’s a good size for the two of us and has a beautiful garden,’ says Alison. ‘Most importantly though, it’s the perfect place for those family gatherings.’ FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
25 BEAUTIFUL
HOMES
Reader survey 2020
Complete our survey by 22 March and you could win £250 or one of 10 runner-up prizes of £25 as a ‘thank you’. You can also take part online by going to idealhome.co.uk/25BHreadersurvey2020 A YOU & YOUR HOME 1 How old is your current home?
• Modern/new build/less
than 10 years old (2010s) • Between 10 and 30 years old (1980s/1990s/2000s) • Around mid-century (1940s/1950s/1960s/1970s)
2 Is your home: • Rented n 1
n1 n2 n3
• Early 20th-century Edwardian
(1900s/1910s/ 1920s/1930s) • Victorian (1800s) • Georgian (1700s) • Earlier than Georgian (pre-1700s) Don’t know •
• Owned on a mortgage n 2
n4 n5 n6 n7 n8
• Owned outright n 3
3 How many homes have you owned so far? n1 • 2-3 • 4-5 (this is my first home) n 2 • 6 or more
• None • 1 only
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4 In the past five years have you undertaken any of the following major projects? 5 Do you intend to carry out any of the following projects in the next two years? Q4 Carried out Q5 Planned for in past 5 years next 2 years
• Installed a new kitchen • Had an extension built • Had a loft conversion • Had a new garden landscaped • Installed a new bathroom • House purchase/move
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6 Aside from these major projects, how many rooms have you redecorated in the last year or so? 7 And how many rooms do you plan to redecorate in the next year or so? Q7 Number planned to Q6 Number of redecorate in next year rooms redecorated
• None •1 • 2-3 • 4-5 • 6 or more
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8 Please read the following statements carefully and tick the one that best describes you: • I don’t really think too much about the decoration in my home – I buy things I need for the house without worrying how it will look • I really struggle decorating my home. I’m just not that confident in how to put things together nicely or how I’d like them. I often need a lot of help and advice to reassure me that I am doing the right things • I have some of my own ideas when it comes to decorating my home. However, I often need quite a bit of reassurance that my ideas are on trend and that I am doing things correctly • I have lots of my own ideas about how to decorate my home, however I’m not always happy with them. I often like to have some reassurance that what I am doing looks good and is on trend • I have loads of ideas about how to decorate my home and am quite confident putting things together by myself. Occasionally I will need some advice or help to get a look or trend exactly as I want it • I don’t follow trends at all and come up with my own ideas when it comes to decorating my home. I don’t need any help and just do what I like
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9 Which of the following best describes your decorating taste? Choose as many as apply, and feel free to add more if you feel we haven’t captured your look! n1 • Contemporary • Vintage • Country/rustic n2 • Eclectic • Traditional • Other (please specify) n3 4 n Retro/mid-century •
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B HOME INSPIR ATION & INFORMATION 10 How important are each of the following sources to you, when it comes to improving your home? Very Nice to Could do have without Essential important n1 n2 n3 n4 • Pinterest n n n n • Facebook • Instagram n n n n n n n n • YouTube • Other social media n n n n n n n n • Home interest magazines n n n n • Friends and family n n n n • TV programmes n n n n • Bloggers/vloggers/influencers n n n n • Websites n n n n • Shops n n n n • Shows/exhibitions n n n n Books • 11 To what extent is your purchase of home magazines influenced by whether you have a project on the go? • I only buy home magazines if I’m involved in a project • I mainly buy home magazines if I’m involved in a project • I buy home magazines regardless of whether I’m involved in a project or not 12 Are you currently involved in/planning any home improvement or decorating projects? • Yes, planning a project • Yes, just started work on a project • Yes, in the middle of a project • Not involved in any projects at the moment
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13 And how many home magazines have you bought so far in connection with this project? n1 • 4-5 • This is my first purchase n2 • 2-3 • 6 or more
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14 How often do you buy 25 Beautiful Homes? n1 • 3-4 times a year • Always – I am a subscriber • Less than 3 times a year • Every issue but don’t subscribe n 2 n3 • This is my first copy • 6 times a year
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15 And would you describe 25 Beautiful Homes as: • Your favourite home magazine • One of your favourites • Not usually one of your first choices
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16 So which is your favourite home magazine? n4
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17 Do you follow 25 Beautiful Homes on any of the following social media channels? • Instagram • Twitter n1 n2 • Facebook • I don’t follow 25 Beautiful Homes 3 n Pinterest on any social media channel •
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C ATTITUDES TO 25 BEAUTIFUL HOMES 18 What are your three main reasons for buying 25 Beautiful Homes? Tick three only
• For decorating inspiration • To dream/escape • To keep up to date with trends
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• To look at other people’s homes • To be entertained
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19 In your opinion, how well does 25 Beautiful Homes satisfy each of these needs? Quite Room for No Very well well improvement opinion n1 n2 n3 • For decorating inspiration n4 n n n n • To dream/escape n n n • To keep up to date with trends n To look at other people’s homes n n n n • n n n n To be entertained •
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Contents
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Welcome
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Hidden treasure
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An original beauty
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Rustic revival
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As good as new
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Neat petite
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Seeking sanctuary
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Trading spaces
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Full of surprises
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Clear thinking
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Bright ideas
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Simply idyllic
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Subscribe – 12 issues for £27.99 n
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Recipe for success
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The long view
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Height of fashion
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Taking the plunge
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Artist’s impression
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Pastures new
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Design for life
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Turning on the charm
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Creative canvas
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Urban retreat
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Force of nature
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Fresh horizons
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Starting from scratch
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A upbeat approach
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Where to buy
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20 Listed below, in page order, are all the articles that appear in this issue of 25 Beautiful Homes. For each item please tick the column that comes closest to your opinion.
21 How satisfied are you with the amount of coverage of each of the following subjects in 25 Beautiful Homes? Would like more About right Would like less
• News/shopping • Decorating ideas • Real homes • Trends • Outdoor living/gardening
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22 Have you noticed any changes to 25 Beautiful Homes in the last year or so? • Has improved considerably • Has improved a little • I have noticed some changes but preferred it the way it was • I haven’t noticed any changes
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23 Please tell us what changes you have noticed:
24 How much did you enjoy this issue of 25 Beautiful Homes?
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• With children only (no partner) • Other
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D ABOUT YOU • Female
25 Are you:
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26 Which age group are you in?
• Under 25 • 26-35
• 36-45 • 46-55
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27 Do you live:
• On your own • With partner only (no children) • With partner and children
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28 What is your working status?
• Employed full-time • Employed part-time
• Self-employed • Not working
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• Retired
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29 How would you describe your financial status? Please be honest
• Very comfortable • Comfortable
• Managing • Struggling a bit
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30 What is your combined household income?
• Under £30,000 • £30,000-£49,999 • £50,000-£74,999 • £75,000-£99,999
• £100,000-£149,999 • £150,000-£199,999 • £200,000+ • Prefer not to say
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31 Do you live in the UK?
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32 How would you describe the area you live in?
• Countryside
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33 Please write in your postcode Thank you for your time. If you wish to be entered into our free prize draw, please fill in your name, email address (or your phone number if you don’t have email) below. This contact data will only be used for the administration of the prize draw. Name: Email address: Phone number: Please place your completed questionnaire in an envelope, affix the correct postage and return to us by 22 March 2020 to:
25 Beautiful Homes Reader Survey, Box 113, 20 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham GL52 2LY
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CREATIVE CANVAS
With its enviable views and light levels, this new build was the perfect project to inspire Deborah Pook’s artistic flair FEATURE ANNA TOBIN | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHAEL SMITH
KITCHEN-DINER
Rugs help to zone the informal breakfast bar area. Seagrass squares rug is similar, from £38, Twentytwentyone. Hay Hee bar stool is a match, £132, Made in Design
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LIVING AREA
An original G Plan armchair, tall plants, and an oversized floor lamp create an intimate feel and subtly separate this sociable space from the kitchen. Vintage G Plan furniture, from a selection, After Noah. Try Artemide Tolomeo Mega Halo Dim floor lamp, £277.20, dmlights
BEST BUY ‘My huge L-shaped sofa has just the look I wanted and fits perfectly in the living area. It is minimal and classic, but practical for entertaining’
KITCHEN-DINER
Deborah enjoys the juxtaposition of vintage and contemporary styling. Ercol Originals drop-leaf table has a similar look, £1,380, Heal’s. (Left) Try the Stella Gold wall clock, £35.95, Tick Tock Clocks
HALLWAY
The spacious proportions here allow for an additional seating area. The Dallas three-seater sofa has this look, £1,399, Made. Secto Octo pendant light, £640, Royal Design
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home truths THE PROPERTY Five-bedroom new-build house L O C AT I O N Leicestershire R O O M S Hallway, kitchendiner/living area, utility room, five bedrooms (one en suite) two bathrooms P U R C H A S E D 2015 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before, we lived in a Victorian terrace near here,’ says Deborah.
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hen artist Deborah Pook was house hunting, she was looking for a property that ticked two boxes. She wanted a home with a large living area, where both she and her two sons, Corin, now 18, and Daniel, 15, could entertain friends, and a room full of natural light that would serve as her new painting studio. ‘It wasn’t the architecture that sold me on this property,’ explains Deborah. ‘This is a new-build home, and I bought it for its location and abundant light levels. It’s built in a conservation area, in an elevated position and looks out over the surrounding fields. The views are fantastic, plus, the interior space is great, too.’ With its large hallway, a generous picture window over the stairs and a huge, bright living area that opens right out on to the
garden, the house had the potential to double as a studio space for Deborah. Plus, as it was not completely finished when she bought it, she had some say over the fixtures and fittings. This meant that, unlike many new-build properties, she was able to put her own stamp on it right from the beginning. ‘I chose a striking walnut staircase to accentuate the dramatic height of the hallway and to match the walnut flooring,’ she says. ‘I was also able to choose the colour of the kitchen units, selecting a bank of tall, inky blue units along the internal wall and white handleless base units running along the external wall and for the island unit, which I topped with a beautiful navy worktop.’ Deborah chose the floor and wall tiles for the bathrooms, too, once again opting for a minimal, contemporary look, a theme which 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020 | 10 9
MASTER BEDROOM
Deborah has used layers to create eye-catching areas of interest in this ground-floor retreat. Shalstone bed frame, from £899, Ercol at John Lewis & Partners. Similar vintage G Plan chest of drawers, price on request, Vinterior
has become the backdrop of her entire decorating scheme. She then used heirloom furniture and accessories to add colour, texture and a 1970s aesthetic. ‘It wasn’t intentional but, thinking about it, I realise that I’ve approached the interior design of this home in much the same way that I approach my art,’ she says. ‘I studied textile design and illustration at university and that has influenced my art and the way I approach design. I like to layer a mixture of different textures in my art, and each room here is built up with a mixture of layers and textures, too.’ Deborah has furnished the house with a combination of classic 1970s shapes, from brands such as Ercol, and online finds that she has refurbished. ‘The large L-shaped Italian sofa in the living area was a discovery on eBay,’ she says. ‘I restored it with the help of a 110 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
friend and then chose a combination of cushions in amber and russet hues, to match the colouring of my painting behind it.’ Deborah’s artwork and variety of houseplants are stylishly displayed throughout the house. As this property is built on a hill, three of the bedrooms are on the ground floor and some of the upstairs rooms also have access to the garden. Deborah was keen to blur the line between the inside and the outside spaces as much as possible. ‘I have lots of large and small pot plants in every room to help bring the outside in,’ she says. ‘On bright, dry days, I often take my canvases out on to the terrace and work out there as well. ‘This house seems to feed creativity, and the big, bright living area that spills outside has become the perfect setting for my art,’ she continues. ‘It’s a great place to live and work.’ FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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FAVOURITE FEATUR E ‘The best part of the house is the landing picture window. I love to look through it to see the garden and the mature trees outside’
BATHROOM
Deborah’s artwork in here tones in with the hues of the tiles. Try the Harbour Clarity wall-mounted vanity unit and basin in Chestnut, £248.98, Drench. Try the Prospect Natural tiles, £22.99sq m, Tile Mountain. Artwork, price on request, Deborah Pook Art
LANDING
The glazed banister maximises natural light, while the pendant emphasises the height of the stairwell. Shaggy rug in Whisper Orange is similar, £384.95, Benuta. Artwork, price on request, Deborah Pook Art
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Urban retreat
Jane Whitfield indulged her love of colour and textiles to bring a relaxed contemporary style to her city apartment FEATURE CHRISTINE STOVELL | PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL
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SITTING ROOM A sociable arrangement of comfortable seating in a medley of rich colours and patterns creates an informal mood. Armchairs in Alessandro fabric, price on request, Claremont. Roman blinds in Indian Pear linen, price on request, Robert Kime. Sedgwick mirror, ÂŁ575; similar fern prints, ÂŁ325 for a set of eight, both Oka. Chinoiserie table, price on request, Vaughan
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home truths THE PROPERTY First-floor apartment across four terraced mews houses L O C AT I O N Southwest London R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen-diner, mezzanine room, five bedrooms (one en suite), dressing room, two bathrooms, terrace, separate studio flat P U R C H A S E D 2009 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before moving here, I lived in a flat in Ladbroke Grove,’ says Jane.
DINING ROOM Horizontally panelled white walls create an American country look. Bespoke chandelier, Graham Carr Fine Arts. For a similar rug, try the Glocester hand-woven, from £103.99, Wayfair. The Chichester sideboard, £1,340, Neptune, would also work well here
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ne life-changing event is a test of most people’s resilience, but when Jane Whitfield put her conventional flat in west London on the market to search for a larger property, she was also in the process of adopting her son, Alexei, from Russia and making a career change in order to work from home. As if that wasn’t enough to be getting on with, Jane’s capacity to embrace change was confirmed when she decided to buy a spacious first-floor apartment above a secluded gated mews in south-west London. ‘I wasn’t aiming for such a large space,’ she says, ‘but when I saw it, even on a very miserable winter’s day, I had to have it.’ Quietly tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, and close to green spaces, the 19th-century buildings had been converted into nine individual
residences in the 1980s. The celebrated author Roald Dahl, also charmed by the location, once owned the flat beneath Jane’s and wrote some of his best-known works there. ‘A major attraction for me was the huge private terrace stretching across the full width of the property,’ says Jane. The area is perfect for alfresco entertaining and is now home to Jane’s extensive collection of potted plants. The significant renovations Jane wanted to make meant she was faced with a sizeable project. Luckily, a tiny studio flat was part of the property. ‘That was the key,’ she says. ‘I could live there while the builders – all eight of them – spent nearly nine months on the interiors upstairs.’ Jane is a member of the International Coach Federation and helps women through cancer and trauma, but her previous career as a successful interior designer stood her
KITCHEN-DINER Jane chose a timeless palette of grey and white, with pretty blinds to add colour. Blinds in Killi fabric in Red, price on request, Penny Morrison. Jenson dining table, £599, Made. Jason dining chairs, £194.99 for a set of four, Wayfair, have a similar feel TERRACE This large sheltered area provides ample space for outdoor dining. The Collioure recycled wood and metal garden table and two chairs, £302, Maisons du Monde, is a similar design on a smaller scale
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in good stead when it came to making decisions about the renovations. ‘Experience is pretty important, as well as knowing what you want and where to find it,’ she says. Skylights were fitted in the main spaces and new glass doors to the terrace help to flood the apartment with light. Previously, the property had been decorated in a traditional English country house style, but Jane’s preference was for a lighter, modern look and a ‘place of comfort’ where people could relax. ‘Because of the scale of the rooms, I’ve made sure everything is big and cosy,’ she says. ‘Even the bookshelves, which fill an entire wall in the sitting room, are designed to make a statement.’ Jane has stayed true to the colours she loves, including shades of blue and pink, but with a dash of dramatic
contrast for the bookshelves, windows and doors in the sitting room. Blinds are made in vibrant fabrics, such as the Penny Morrison design in the kitchen. ‘She is a favourite of mine, along with Robert Kime and Fermoie,’ says Jane. An artistic eye and ease at handling bold pattern, colour and scale are demonstrated throughout Jane’s stylish apartment, which has a timeless quality, as if it has gently evolved. ‘I’m quite good at finding beautiful things for my home for very little money,’ she adds. Big changes bring big challenges, but because of her willingness to take them on, Jane has successfully created a calm and serene family home, which is also a place of welcome and sanctuary. ‘After all,’ she reflects, ‘life is about moving forwards and not looking back.’
MASTER BEDROOM The gentle curves of this custom-made headboard and the repeated circular print present a pleasing contrast with the room’s straight lines. Haveli fabric in Blue, price on request, Penny Morrison. Glass table lamp, from £1,020, Tyson London. Bespoke bedside table, Graham Carr Fine Arts B AT H R O O M Cupboards hidden behind mirrored doors provide a clever storage solution. Blind in Star Atlantico in Aubergine, price on request, Jasper Fabrics at Michael S Smith
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FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
FORCE of NATURE
Dominic Ash and his wife Kate have nearly doubled the size of a bungalow to create a sensational home FEATURE AMANDA HARLING | PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL
EXTERIOR Nestled into the lower part of the garden, this pod, which was made by Dominic, is used as a retreat by all members of the family. Garden pod, from £18,000, designed and made by Dominic Ash and Jeremy Fitter for Podmakers KITCHEN-DINER The white handleless units have an understated simplicity that contrasts with the blue glass splashback, rustic wooden beams and dining table to striking effect. Dining table, from £7,000; chairs and benches, from £2,000 each, Dominic Ash. Caravaggio P4 pendant lights, £688 each, SCP. The Festivo glass candleholders, from £65 each, Royal Design, have a similar look
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home truths THE PROPERTY Extended 1930s bungalow L O C AT I O N Gloucestershire R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner/living area, snug, utility room, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, studio apartment P U R C H A S E D 2007 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before moving here, we lived in a flat in London,’ says Dominic.
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SITTING ROOM A gabled roof replaced the flat one, transforming the look of this space. Michel sofa, from £10,000, B&B Italia. Welsh wool Coldatnight blanket in
Berry Red, £245, Fforest General Stores. The vintage Norwegian woodburner was a house-warming present; try UK Stoves for a modern equivalent, from around £800
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S T U D I O A PA R T M E N T Dominic made the panelling, flooring and bed himself using Douglas fir. Flockstar ewe sheep seat, £985, Wildash London
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oving to the Cotswolds nearly 13 years ago with their four children, Dominic and Kate Ash were relocating to familiar territory. ‘We knew the area well, as my parents lived in the next village,’ explains Kate. ‘We’d been living in London until 120 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
that point, but soon after our youngest daughter, Nell, now 14, was born, Dominic found premises for his cabinet-making business near Cirencester, so we decided to make the move.’ The family, including Josh, now 32, India, 22, Eden, 18, as well as Nell, rented a cottage while looking for a property to
buy within walking distance of the village school. Within a few months a bungalow came on the market and, although small, it was affordable and the location was ideal, with lovely views, on a quiet road. ‘We knew that we’d have to improve and enlarge whatever property we bought,’ says Kate. ‘The quintessential
Cotswolds village house with three bedrooms or more would have been beyond our means.’ Kate and Dominic commissioned their architect friend Sarah Featherstone of Featherstone Young to draw up plans for the alterations. ‘Sarah had designed our home in London, conjuring space for us
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FUTUR E PLAN ‘Our ultimate dream is to buy a plot of land and build a new house’
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MASTER BEDROOM Soft textures deliver a luxe look. Sheepskin throw, £650; sheepskin cushions, £96 each; Gotland sheepskin, £203, all Wildash London
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EN SUITE Dominic made the teak basin.
Try Biella Fuchsia and Cassis double duvet cover, £170, Designers Guild
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I N D I A’ S B E D R O O M Pink bed linen brings a sense of fun.
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and the children out of nowhere, so we knew that she could work her magic here,’ says Kate. To increase the size of the property, the loft was converted into the master bedroom with an adjacent bathroom and dressing area. On the ground floor are the children’s bedrooms and the family bathroom. At the back
B AT H R O O M Walnut panels lend a warm touch.
of the building, the sloping site allowed for an extension incorporating a kitchen-diner, balcony and a self-contained studio apartment below. Helped by a local builder, Dominic undertook much of the work himself, as well as making pieces for the house, including the dining table. ‘Dominic was
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
apprenticed for six years to the Somerset furniture maker George Douglas, so he learnt his craft in the traditional way,’ says Kate. ‘Subsequently, he helped my parents with the renovation of a house they’d bought near here. I was living in London at the time and my parents suggested that I ask Dominic to
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make the kitchen for my new flat. He came to see me, made some lovely cabinets and never left. For our new kitchen, we decided the cabinetry should be simple and understated. By keeping it minimal, it contrasts with the wood but doesn’t detract from its beauty.’ Much like the rest of this stunning home. 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020 | 121
welcome to the world of the one-stop edit of the best modern style inspiration and design ideas
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FRESH horizons
A hillside house provided the perfect backdrop for Stig Lindorf-Hansen and Jonathan Roberts’ style SITTING ROOM
Stig and Jonathan’s mid-century furniture adds a light touch. Vintage 1950s rattan table, £240, Vinterior. Jed armchair, £350, Habitat
FEATURE JO LEEVERS | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHAEL SMITH
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DINING AREA
A 1970s open staircase accentuates the retro feel. Edelweiss dining table, £379, Made, has this look. Wishbone chairs, from £443 each, The Conran Shop
home truths THE PROPERTY Converted 1970s bungalow L O C AT I O N Brighton R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen-diner, study, cloakroom, snug, three bedrooms (one en suite), bathroom P U R C H A S E D 2017 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We had a 1930s house on the Gower peninsula,’ says Stig.
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n abstract painting shimmering with strokes of vibrant blue hangs in Stig Lindorf-Hansen and Jonathan Roberts’ sitting room and reflects the couple’s love of their home’s coastal setting. ‘It sums up the freedom of gazing out to a view of sky and sea,’ says Stig. He and Jonathan relocated to Brighton for work two years ago, but were lucky enough to already
b e s t b u y ‘I love the tropical wallpaper in the cloakroom. I saw it online for half
KITCHEN-DINER
Gloss cabinets are sleek and reflect the light. Luna units, from £2,508, Magnet. Try House dining chairs, £89 each, John Lewis & Partners
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know the city well. ‘We used to live just one street away and whenever I walked by this house I always thought that it had loads of potential,’ says Stig. The house was built in 1970 as a bungalow, but Stig could see that its tall pitched roof offered scope to create a first floor. As well as adding the loft extension, the home was rewired, walls replastered and flooring updated. ‘For some reason we thought it would be a great idea to live on site while the work was going on,’ says Stig. ‘We survived, but we won’t be doing that again.’ The couple’s interiors style is a blend of contemporary and vintage. ‘I like to mix eras rather
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than being confined to a single look,’ explains Stig. Originally from Denmark, Stig has been influenced by Scandinavian design and has added some beautiful vintage pieces to the schemes. ‘Design classic or not, every piece of furniture is here to be used,’ he smiles. ‘The beauty of a 1970s house is that it provides a fabulous blank canvas that you can play around with,’ he continues. ‘We were still respectful of this house’s origins, but it felt easier to introduce our own style into the generous rooms.’ This is why Stig favours plain white walls in a home: ‘They act as a fresh slate so that you can add your own character with colour, furniture shapes and art,’ he says. Part of the building work involved combining the hallway and porch to make a larger entrance hall. ‘I like walking into a spacious area,’ says Stig. ‘It sets a welcoming tone for a house.’ Light was important, too, hence the glazing that replaced the back walls in the kitchen and sitting room. ‘We did a lot of work here, but nothing jars,’ says Stig. ‘Now, we both absolutely love living here. It’s a house that suits us in every way.’
the price of similar designs – it was such a bargain, I stocked up for future use’ CLOAKROOM
With striking pattern, the smallest room evokes a tropical mood. Alfresco wallpaper, £13.99 a roll, Bay Isle Home at Wayfair. Try Vibe Black mosaic floor tiles, £21.81sq m, Victorian Plumbing
HALLWAY
A chair adds a welcoming touch. Eames LCW chair, from £1,270, The Conran Shop
GUEST BEDROOM
Coastal blues are chic and serene. Braswell desk lamp, £38.99, Norden Home at Wayfair. Similar side table, £99, Swoon
STUDY
Cool greys and crisp whites create a calm corner workspace. Eames DAW chair, £475, The Conran Shop. Anglepoise 75 lamp, £148.50, Amos Lighting & Home, is similar
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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home truths THE PROPERTY Four-bedroom Victorian semi L O C AT I O N Southeast London R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, kitchen-diner, four bedrooms, three bathrooms (one en suite) P U R C H A S E D 2018 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘Before, we lived in a split-level flat in a Victorian conversion just around the corner,’ says Lu.
S TA R T I N G from S C R AT C H The challenge of reworking a neglected house that had lain untouched for 40 years did not faze experienced renovator Lu Fitoussi-Findlay FEATURE STEPHANIE SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID GILES
SITTING ROOM ‘I wanted this room to be dark, as a contrast to the kitchen, but I’ve also added some of my favourite pink.’ Walls in Off Black estate emulsion, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Sofa, £1,300, Lombok
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KITCHEN-DINER ‘This well-made classic scheme is very practical,’ says Lu. ‘The stone worktops are hard-wearing and the wood-look parquet floor is actually vinyl.’ Ashbourne units in Scots Grey, £12,000, Masterclass Kitchens. Quartzite worktop, £3,000, Stoneworld. London Arpeggio Walnut luxury vinyl flooring, £70sq m, Amtico
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anting to move from a flat to a house in the same area of southeast London, Lu Fitoussi-Findlay was looking for a project. But even the estate agent was concerned about the property she and her husband, Raphael, settled on. ‘It was a wreck. It hadn’t been touched for 40 years, and was totally impractical,’ says Lu. ‘He thought we were insane to even consider it.’ But Lu, a director of build and interior design company Plaster Fever, and Raphael, a commercial estate agent, decided to buy. ‘We had renovated our old flat from scratch, which we documented on Instagram @thehousepotnoodlesbuilt, and we’ve learnt such a lot over the years. So, although we knew it wouldn’t be easy, we went for it.’ The couple’s plans to extend at the rear to form a large kitchendiner and convert the loft into two extra bedrooms and a bathroom needed to be carefully thought out, especially as the property is in a conservation area. Having been divided up in the past, the house had an awkward layout, which included an upstairs kitchen. Luckily, planning permission for the extensions was granted, and the couple found a local flat to rent for nine months while they got to work on the property. ‘We had to strip out each space and move walls to
improve the layout and size of each of the rooms,’ says Lu. ‘Most of the windows also had to be replaced, and we needed to do all the basics before we could move on to the more enjoyable parts of the project.’ A major problem with the metal-framed doors delayed the completion of the kitchen and living room. ‘We chose a company we hadn’t used before and it was a bit of a nightmare,’ says Lu. ‘The doors didn’t fit properly and we could feel a cold draught coming through. It meant we had to rip everything out and have new doors fitted by another company.’ The delay with the doors also meant that, when they moved back in November 2018, the property was far from ready, with no working kitchen. ‘We were holed up together in one room for weeks, along with our dog, Tank, and cat, Dolly.’ By the spring, Lu could focus on the interior details. ‘Practicality is very important to me,’ she says. ‘There’s no point having the most beautiful finishes only for them to subsequently get ruined and become the bane of your life.’ And now that the couple have a four-month-old daughter, Sylvie, practicality has become even more of a priority. ‘Houses should look beautiful but, above all, they need to be lived in and liveable. The finishes you choose should always suit the kind of life you lead.’
b e s t b u y ‘The eBay wardrobe we bought for the nursery was a real bargain at £80 and the rattan doors look just how I imagined’ BEDROOM ‘We earmarked this quieter bedroom at the rear of the house as a nursery, painted the floorboards and added an attractive wardrobe, which we found on eBay, to store all of Sylvie’s things.’ Rug, £40, Anthropologie. Sinnerlig light, £40, Ikea
EN SUITE To add interest, Lu chose vibrant green brick tiles, laid in a herringbone pattern, and teamed them with marble floor tiles. Marais Green tiles, £45.60sq m, Porcelain Superstore. Bobble mat in Mustard, £14, Dunelm
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BEDROOM Shelving in the alcoves is the perfect place for books, objets and plants, while the chair is a bonus for guests. Peacock Blue velvet vintage chair, £94.49, Maisons du Monde. Try the ribbed glass vase in Midnight Blue, £45, Amara
MASTER BEDROOM As storage was the couple’s foremost concern in this room, they had wardrobes built all along the back wall and painted them in a pale grey. Sienna rattan bed, £1,195, Feather & Black. Damya reversible bedspread, £160, La Redoute, has a similar look
FO R STO C K I STS G O TO W HER E TO B U Y
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APPROACH Charlotte Gueniau’s imaginative decorating style has created a vibrant home full of colour and character FEATURE SARA BIRD | PHOTOGRAPHY DAN DUCHARS/THE CONTENTED NEST
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home truths THE PROPERTY Detached house, built around 1912 L O C AT I O N Odense, Denmark R O O M S Hallway, sitting room, living room, dining room, kitchendiner, snug, laundry room, conservatory, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, basement P U R C H A S E D 2010 PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We lived in the grounds of a castle in the Danish countryside,’ says Charlotte.
KITCHEN-DINER ‘I will always be in love with my big rhino lamp,’ says Charlotte. ‘I’ve had it for more than 20 years.’ Decorelo’s rhino wall lamp, £95, is a good alternative. The Rayleigh cane chairs, £229 for two, Made, are similar. Try the Cambronne dining table, £487.50, Maisons du Monde
SITTING ROOM Soft shades and quirky finds create a harmonious blend. Eijffinger Rice II Two wallpaper, £64.95 a roll, Jane Clayton. Small Eiffel Tower lamp (above left), €119.90; round lampshade, €44.90, both Rice
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ith an interiors career steeped in colour, fun and seasonal updates, Charlotte Gueniau was never going to live in a lacklustre home. And after a recent refurbishment, it is filled with even bolder, brighter tones, along with statement features including her own wallpaper designs. ‘My husband Philippe and I moved here for practical reasons, so that our children, Max, now 21, and Selma, 19, could easily get to school and hang out with friends,’ says Charlotte. ‘We found the house through a realestate friend, and it met our requirements for high ceilings and plenty of space.’ Charlotte, who is founder/CEO of Rice, filled the originally stark house with painted backdrops and vibrant homeware. But as the children grew, the family’s needs changed and Charlotte’s own style adapted. ‘I was a big believer in using colour and paint to decorate when you have a young family, so when we first moved in, we did everything at once,’ explains Charlotte. ‘These days my approach is more curated. I’ve collected pieces over the years when travelling and I’m drawn to using more patterns to illustrate how I feel about an interior. I’ve really embraced using wallpaper as an instant feature idea in a room and work with intricate designs to create interest or lift a dull space.’ Charlotte had long been influenced by the English country home style, but it was her foray into wallpaper design with the Netherlandsbased textile and wallpaper company Eijffinger that allowed her to bring
tow n | 25bh SITTING ROOM The symmetrical arrangement of the seating and windows brings a sense of balance to this eclectic scheme. The Chesterfield Gold velvet three-seater Sofa, £1,199, Love Sofas, is similar. Amour square cushion, €24.90; Darling cushion, €29.90; large cotton rug, €384.90, all Rice
d e c o r a t i n g t i p ‘Declutter your home to keep it tidy and light, and regularly move things around to create a new energy and a sense of fun’
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LIVING ROOM Charlotte’s beautiful wallpaper adds drama without dominating the scheme. Eijffinger Rice II One wallpaper, £69.95 a roll, Jane Clayton. Try the Valentin rectangular footstool in Powder Blue Smart Velvet, £500, Sofa.com
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CLOAKROOM Touches of gold lend a glamorous feel. Eijffinger Rice II 383552 wallpaper, £65.81 a roll, Wallpaperwebstore. The carved Louis rectangle mirror, £129, Select Mirrors, would also look good here
MASTER BEDROOM Ornate stained-glass panels inherited from Charlotte’s mother frame the doorway between this room and the dressing area. For similar floor paint, try Blue Ground full gloss, £64 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
more of her own creations to the walls. ‘I’ve always loved that maximalist Bohemian clash and it’s fun to mix vintage florals with retro furnishings,’ she says. ‘Earlier in my career, I favoured semi-plain designs, gentle bird motifs, fun phrases, folk art themes and illustrations. By the time I launched the second collection I had really found my design feet and now there are dots, spots, glitter and petal patterns.’ Everywhere you look, the style is carefully created. ‘I love the flow in the house, that all the rooms on the ground floor are connected,’ says Charlotte. ‘The light that comes in is wonderful, too. Each room has its best moment in the day but we do spend a lot of time in the kitchen. We also enjoy relaxing on our big gorgeous sofas in front of the TV.’ Despite the mix of palettes and patterns that abound, they seem to blend well together. ‘Having the light and space in the house helps,’ says Charlotte. ‘I can throw in all kinds of styles and shades, but there is room for the all the colours to work cohesively. There is also a balance – despite there being a lot to take in, it all fits rather than fights.’ Ten years since the family moved in, the house still feels fresh and inspiring, which is very much down to Charlotte’s style and her relaxed attitude. ‘I’ve loved every stage of being here and now embrace the fact that we are in the ‘‘no toys, more party glasses” phase,’ she says. ‘We really do enjoy sharing our home with each other, as well as entertaining friends, and I think you get a sense of that as soon as you walk in.’ 13 8 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
S E L M A’ S B E D R O O M Muted shades create a calm mood, while bold accents add a playful element. Try the Gerard bed frame, £227.99, Wayfair. The Fermob Guinguette trolley table, £119, Made in Design, is similar
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WHERE TO BUY Details of companies featured in the April issue
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Downton Interiors downton-interiors.co.uk Drench drench.co.uk Drummonds drummonds-uk.com Dunelm dunelm.com Ebath ebath.store Eijffinger eijffinger.com Eliza Price Interiors elizaprice.co.uk Emma Bridgewater emmabridgewater.co.uk F&P Interiors fabricsandpapers.com Farrow & Ball farrow-ball.com Feather & Black featherandblack.com Featherstone Young featherstoneyoung.com Fforest General Stores fforest.bigcartel.com Floortiqué floortique.co.uk Folds Inside foldsinside.com Folk Interiors folkinteriors.co.uk Foxford Woollen Mills foxfordwoollenmills.com Garden Trading gardentrading.co.uk GP&J Baker gpjbaker.com Graham Carr Fine Arts 01264 731377 Grestec Tiles grestec.co.uk H&H Concrete Tables concretetable.co.uk Habitat habitat.co.uk Handmade Kitchen Company nicholasbridger.co.uk Handmade Kitchens of Christchurch handmadekitchens-direct.co.uk Harlequin stylelibrary.com/harlequin Heal’s heals.co.uk Home Sense homesense.com HomeArama homearama.co.uk House of Hackney houseofhackney.com Hyperion Tiles hyperiontiles.co.uk Ian Mankin ianmankin.co.uk Ikea ikea.co.uk India Jane indiajane.co.uk Jane Churchill janechurchill.com Jane Clayton janeclayton.co.uk Jim Lawrence jim-lawrence.co.uk John Lewis & Partners johnlewis.com John Lewis of Hungerford john-lewis.co.uk John Sankey johnsankey.co.uk Jonathan Adler uk.jonathanadler.com Julian Joseph julian-joseph.com Kate Forman kateforman.co.uk La Maison Chic la-maison-chic.co.uk Lambert & Sons lambertnsons.co.uk La Redoute laredoute.co.uk Laura Ashley lauraashley.com Le Deun Luminaires ledeun.com Le Parfait leparfait.com Lelievre lelievreparis.com/en Linwood linwoodfabric.com Little Greene littlegreene.com Loaf loaf.com Lombok lombok.co.uk Love Sofas lovesofas.co.uk Love Your Home love-your-home.co.uk Lovely & Co lovelyandco.co.uk Lucy’s Dressings lucysdressings.co.uk Luke Hannam at McCully & Crane mccullyandcrane.com
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Made made.com Made in Design madeindesign.co.uk Magnet magnet.co.uk Maisons du Monde maisonsdumonde.com Mamas & Papas mamasandpapas.co.uk Manuel Canovas manuelcanovas.com Masterclass Kitchens masterclasskitchens.co.uk Metal Sheets metalsheets.co.uk Michael S Smith michaelsmithinc.com Misha Rostislav Romanov rostislavromanov.com Missoni Home missonihome.com moKee en.mokee.eu Momentum momentumcontract.com Moopi moopi.com.pt National Gallery Shop nationalgallery.co.uk Neptune neptune.com Nest nest.co.uk Newgate Clocks newgateclocks.com Nicola Watters nicolawatters.com Nkuku nkuku.com Nordic Nest nordicnest.com Nushka nushka.co.uk Oak Furnitureland oakfurnitureland.co.uk Oka oka.com Online Carpets onlinecarpets.co.uk Only Home onlyhome.co.uk Original Style originalstyle.com Orpago orpago.co.uk Osborne & Little osborneandlittle.com Paper Rooms paperrooms.co.uk Pash Classics pash-classics.com Penny Morrison pennymorrison.com Piupiuchick piupiuchick.com Podmakers podmakers.co.uk Pond Cottage Antiques yorkshirepine.co.uk Poodle & Blonde poodleandblonde.com Pooky pooky.com Porcelain Superstore porcelainsuperstore.co.uk Premier Marble premiermarble.co.uk Quick-Step quick-step.co.uk R Holloway Builders 07513 941 266 Ressource ressource-peintures.com Rice rice.dk Robert Dyas robertdyas.co.uk Robert Kime robertkime.com Rockett St George rockettstgeorge.co.uk Romo romo.com Royal Design royaldesign.co.uk RSF Bathrooms rsfbathrooms.co.uk SCP scp.co.uk Secret Linen Store secretlinenstore.com Select Mirrors selectmirrors.co.uk Skandium skandium.com Skulpta skulpta.co.uk Soak.com soak.com Sofa Italia sofaitalia.co.uk Sofa.com sofa.com Spark & Bell sparkandbell.com Spencer Swaffer Antiques spencerswaffer.co.uk
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OVER 2500 REVIEWS
Over 60 models to choose from . No risk 21 day moneyback trial . 5 year hardwood frame guarantee . Direct from the manufacturer
For a brochure call 01495 244226 or visit www.sofasofa.co.uk LE N FF SA W O O O 5% N E2 K TA
GREAT BRITISH HANDMADE LEATHER SOFAS DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER
TRADITIONAL BRITISH UPHOLSTERY SINCE 1987
was £1959 Winter Sale price £1469 Grosvenor 3 seater was £939 - now only £699 Call now for a brochure
01443 771222
or visit
www.thomaslloyd.com
www.kirkdale.co.uk
Call for your free brochure 01495 243999
To advertise here, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@ti-media.com
Marketplace sofas and sofa beds
beds & bedding
WINTER SALE NOW ON Only £299. Only from us.
Amelia sofa was £399 - now £299
RISK 21 DAY HOME TRIAL Oakridge .. NO 5 YEAR FRAME GUARANTEE Sofas . FACTORY DIRECT PRICES
www.oakridgedirect.co.uk Tele 01685 844944
Request your free brochure and wood samples
furniture
gardens
|
Space craft
Double your useable space with our sofa beds.
Experts in small space living 21 stores | 0345 609 4455 | futoncompany.co.uk
To advertise here, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@ti-media.com
Marketplace fires/fireplaces
Aegean bath - 2 s zes manufactured
23 YEARS AGO
home improvements
Keep your home beautiful with our stylish range of wipeable tablecloths Huge choice of designs and patterns Custom cut to size
Albion’s founders had a mission to create the ultimate bath tubs. After two years of development, Albion had it sorted. A new material was created from an amalgam of high technology resin and a special reinforced mineral. Manufactured in our Essex factory, this material was named Iso Enamel. To this day, our special process is unique and
www.wipeeasytablecloths.com 01606 833886
offers benefits that other materials cannot provide. So what’s so good? •
An Albion bath is less than half the weight of a cast iron bath. The average weight of our baths is 70kg.
verandas
•
Your bathing water will stay hotter for up to five times longer.
ALUMINIUM PERGOLAS WITH ROTATING LOUVRE TECHNOLOGY
•
Clean an Albion bath with all modern liquid cleaners.
•
An Albion bath has a hard, high gloss interior that gives years of sterling service.
•
Customise the bath exterior with any colour.
Aluminium Pergolas
RAHU NGGE E
ROTATING LOUVRE TECHNOLOGY
Request your brochure of our range of over 50 free standing bath tubs, taps and sanitaryware items.
GET UP TO
25%
24 MONTHS INTEREST FREE CREDIT AVAILABLE*
OFF
For a FREE brochure or no obligation design consultation CALL US TODAY ON
0800 047 4028 or visit us online at www.nationwideltd.co.uk
N
01255 831605 albionbathco.com
HOME INNOVATIONS
ALBION BAT H C O M PA N Y HAND MADE IN ENGLAND
*Credit is subject to status and affordability. Representative Example: Cash price £4,500.00, 30% deposit of £1,350.00, amount of credit £3,150.00, annual rate of interest 0% p.a fixed, 0% APR Representative, 24 monthly repayments of £131.25, total amount payable £4,500.00 (including deposit).
To advertise here, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@ti-media.com
25bh | i d e a s to s h a r e The occasional chair – try &Tradition for similar – is made in a walnut that echoes the warm tones of the coffee table
ROOM ENVY
T
his issue we bring you a taste of Gallic chic courtesy of Villa La Coste, the modern Provençal retreat hotel at Château La Coste, a world-renowned sculpture park and vineyard outside Aix. The bedrooms here are an excellent example of how to soften difficult, new-build architecture: relatively low ceilings, plain walls unadorned with period detailing and a cool, tiled floor. The most important architectural features here are the floor-to-ceiling Crittall-style windows, which open up views over the rolling countryside beyond. Not all of us will have the space and budget for an upstairs balcony like the one pictured here, but if you are lucky enough to own a property with similarly gorgeous views, metal-framed windows in sitting rooms 14 6 | 2 5 B H A PRIL 2020
can help to bring the outside in and negate the white-box feel of contemporary builds. The walls are sensibly painted white to maximise light, but a warm shade that glows with peaches and cream tones has been applied to avoid the starkness that this clinical colour can sometimes bring. Furniture has been chosen carefully to neutralise the boldness of the building and keep things airy. A simple four-poster bed is adorned with transparent toile drapes, matched to the white and ivory linens of the upholstered seating. The room is finished with a captivating work of contemporary art – this one by Tracey Emin – hanging prominently above the headboard. After all, with white walls and contemporary style, why not lean in to a sophisticated gallery aesthetic?
FEATURE PATRICK HAMILTON COURTNEY
Each month we bring you a hotel space that intrigues, inspires and dazzles
uniquely yours...
for our latest brochure
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