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L I V E

T H E

L I F E . . . L O V E

T H E

S T Y L E

& INTERIORS

Co fort J Y

Beautiful country homes, dressed up for the season GIFT GUIDE: YOUR PRESENT SHOPPING WRAPPED UP

CHRISTMAS SHOW! 100+ STANDS WITH GIFTS & GOODIES GALORE BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW 21-24 NOVEMBER

‘We serve up cheer & good company’ THE FESTIVE LUNCH WHERE EVERYONE’S INVITED

Let’s celebrate!

❖ THE ULTIMATE FESTIVE FEAST ❖ WARM & SPICY WINTER DECOR IDEAS ❖ WREATH MAKING, FESTIVE FORAGING & EASY CRAFT INSPIRATION

THE MAN

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Part of Lux Group Holdings Ltd.

MARK WILKINSON OBE

New England

+44 (0) 1380 578051

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CONTENTS

THE HOME OF

modern country To find all stockists in this issue, turn to page 155

96

INTERIORS & INSPIRATION 12 DECEMBER Things we can’t live without 17 DESIGN NEWS What’s new in interiors this month 86 • CHRISTMAS SPICE Create a colour palette around favourite festive scents, such as cinnamon, nutmeg and clove 96 MAKE A HOUSE A HOME Get your home prepped and ready for plenty of cosy nights in 103 KITCHEN IDEAS Forget monochrome schemes, colourful cabinetry is what’s hot right now 116 DINING TABLES Hosting Christmas this year? Make sure you have a big enough table 120 ROOM ELEMENTS Cosy and stylish lighting to brighten up your home on dreary winter days 125 HOME TECH Our pick of the best dishwashers for speedy clear-ups 127 KITCHEN PROJECT A dramatic yet sociable kitchen-diner at the heart of a former schoolhouse

COUNTRY HOMES 20 • HEREFORDSHIRE TOWNHOUSE Buying a period home that had previously been split into seven bedsits was always going to come with its challenges

146

• ON THE COVER

138 • GET CREATIVE Find inspiration in nature to craft your own seasonal decor and festive giftwrap >

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33 • SURREY COUNTRY HOUSE A well-planned renovation and a fairytale porch has given this 1950s home the illusion of history 44 • HAMPSHIRE VILLAGE HOUSE Escaping to the country has made Christmas all the more special for this family 54 • OXFORDSHIRE COTTAGE With the owners’ search centred on one village, this 120-year-old house was a welcome find PLUS GET-THE-LOOK IDEAS FOR EVERY HOME COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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CONTENTS

20 135 • COUNTRY PASSION Lady Ailsa Stonor starts foraging for festive decor in the springtime 137 A WEEKEND AWAY While away a weekend sipping The Newt’s very own cider, sampling fine food and exploring the glorious grounds 166 MY FAVOURITE VIEW Looking out over Covent Garden reminds dancer Alexander Campbell just how far he’s come

JUST FOR YOU 10

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS & ONE.WORLD Discover our new range of modern country furniture

72

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS CHRISTMAS SHOW Get your tickets today from just £10

SEASONAL FOOD

114

SUBSCRIBE TO COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

143

IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN Our latest pantry additions

124

145

COUNTRY COCKTAILS Festive tipples with a fresh, botanical twist

WE WANT YOUR HOUSE! Find out how to get your lovely home featured in a future issue

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146

138 • ON THE COVER

• A KIND OF MAGIC… Indulgent dishes perfect for a Christmas feast

LIFESTYLE 66

• MY COUNTRY BUSINESS As well as creating beautifully rustic bouquets, Sarah Williamson-Jones also hosts wreath-making workshops

76

• GIFT GUIDE Thoughtful gifts for

REGULARS 155

SHOPPING DIRECTORY All the contact details and websites featured in this issue

SUBSCRIBE T O D AY

everyone on your Christmas list 85

DESIGNER PROFILE Woven textile designer Tori Murphy shares how she set up her own business

95

• LOCAL HERO Tessa Hince celebrates the true meaning of Christmas by bringing people together on 25 December

132 LIVE LIFE WELL Happy thoughts and ideas for fashion, eco, wellbeing and more

To find all stockists in this issue, turn to page 155 4

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Subscribe to Country Homes & Interiors today from £29.99 for 12 months (saving 48%).

See page 114 for details.

A different perspective‌ A warming welcome. A golden glow.

A childhood memory. A dusting of magic.

We believe in homes for every occasion, whatever the season. neptune.com

& INTERIORS 161 MARSH WALL, LONDON E14 9AP TELEPHONE 020 3148 5000 EMAIL countryhomes@ti-media.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Vanessa Richmond GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR Georgia Hibberdine EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andrea Childs HOMES CONTENT TEAM EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Rhoda Parry 020 3148 7180 COMMERCIAL EDITORIAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Jane Akers 020 3148 7313 HOUSES EDITOR Vivienne Ayers 020 3148 7194 SHOPPING EDITOR Holly Phillips 020 3148 7195 NEWS AND FEATURES EDITOR Thea Babington-Stitt 020 3148 7458 CONTENT EDITOR Tara King 020 3148 7196 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Sara Bird (Style) 020 3148 7181 TRAVEL & NEWS EDITOR Patrick Hamilton Courtney GROUP CHIEF SUB-EDITOR/PRODUCTION EDITOR Sarah Farley

TWINKLE TWINKLE wallpaperdirect.com

HEAD OF SUBS OPERATIONS Maxine Clarke HUB CHIEF SUB-EDITOR Amy Hodge DEPUTY CHIEF SUB-EDITOR Jennie Filer SENIOR SUB-EDITOR Chloe Hay HEAD OF ART OPERATIONS Alison Walter DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR Emma Jackson ACTING ART EDITOR Hannah Bennewitz ART EDITORS Melanie Brown and Paula Jardine SENIOR DESIGNERS Christina McQuillan and Katie Harris DESIGNER Charlotte Holland EDITORIAL PRODUCTION MANAGER Nicola Tillman DEPUTY EDITORIAL PRODUCTION MANAGER Clare Willetts OFFICE MANAGER Michelle Briant 020 3148 7154 MARKETING Head of Marketing Sian Cupid 020 3148 6487 Deputy Head of Marketing Laura Timms 020 3148 6239 PUBLISHING Group Managing Director, Lifestyle Angela O’Farrell EA to Group Managing Director Donna McConnell 020 3148 5651 PRODUCTION Group Production Manager Steve Twort 020 3148 5439 Production Manager John Botten 020 3148 5443 Advertising Production Co-ordinator Barry Skinner 020 3148 2538 Digital Producer Andrew Howe 020 3148 3366 CIRCULATION Circulation Manager Alan Edwards 020 3787 9161

Stunning printed metallic effects add a little twinkle to your home.

Visit the experts at wallpaperdirect.com

ADVERTISING Publisher & Head of Homes Network Joanne O’Hara 020 3148 7642 Advertisement Manager Sharon Goode 020 3148 7631 International/Luxury Account Manager Carole Bunce 020 3148 7620 Classified Senior Sales Executive Charlotte Beckett 020 3148 2511 Creative Media Manager Emilie Morrissey 020 3148 3647 Assistant Syndication Manager Efi Mandrides 020 3148 5485 REGIONAL ADVERTISING Regional Sales Director Katrina Hutchison 0161 601 3720 Sales Manager (Inserts) Canopy Media Michael Davie 07446 903582 Regional Account Manager Kim Milroy 07967 590362

Draper Sofa from £1,399 Huxley Floor Lamp £215 Cushions from £20 Rega Turntable £329 Christmas Baubles from £4 Tom Dixon Decanter & Glasses £175

WE’LL H E L P YO U STYLE IT

FOR U S I

S PE RSONAL

Order made-to-measure curtains by 17 December and furniture by 18 December for delivery by Christmas

Sofa pictured is Draper Large 3 Seater Sofa in Lucca Sienna, £1,699. Order by date applies to online orders only. 17 December cut off date applies to made-to-measure curtains where measurements are provided by the customer and are delivered but not installed. 18 December cut off date applies to stocked furniture, standard delivery.

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The mood of the moment:

(BACKGROUND) GARDEN BIRD RED WRAP £1.95 A SHEET, SAM WILSON

LOVING CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS The trip to Fortnum & Mason, the Sunday afternoon foliage-forage, the Christmas Eve carol service… As sure as eggs is eggs, we will do these things because that’s just what a Richmond Christmas looks like. I already know that I’ll still be wrapping gifts at 1am on Christmas Day, the amontillado will be open by 11am and I’ll forget the stuffing again. There’s comfort in the predictability, especially if it’s been a turbulent year.

The unexpected can add a sprinkling of magic over the Big Day, though – my family’s had a marriage proposal and a birth in recent years! However yours plays out, I hope it will be calm and content. Enjoy this issue – it’s guaranteed to get you in the festive mood…

Vanessa x P.S. Don’t forget to buy your tickets!

Tickets to Country Homes & Interiors Christmas are on sale now and there’s an early bird offer that’ll save you £2 a ticket compared with the on-the-door price. Go to ichfevents.co.uk/ countryhomeschristmas and use the code EV196. Offer valid until Friday 15 November 2019.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Velvet snuggler seat, £875

Padded-top coffee table, £575; (right) Upholstered settle, £875

Barley-twist side table, £225

Stone-top chest of drawers, £1,895

& INTERIORS

MODERN COUNTRY CLASSIC

Furniture Collection SHOP THE COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS LOOK WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE NEW FURNITURE COLLECTION We’ve partnered with One.World to create timeless pieces to suit every country home, from barn conversions and period cottages to contemporary rural escapes.

Discover modern country style with beautifully made furniture designed to enhance any room. See the full collection at one.world/countryhomes&interiors

Things we canÕt live without...

DECEMBER 12

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

C O U N T R Y D AY S

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1 Welcoming the holiday hordes with a fresh door arrangement of fragrant greenery. Berry and herb wreath, Dia35.5cm, £85, The Real Flower Company 2 A little work of art through the letterbox (bah humbug to e-vites!) Snow Berries invitation, 13.3x13.3cm, £18.90 for 10, Jade Fisher at Papier 3 Counting down with an ambient flicker... Winter tree candle, H25xDia5cm, £12.75, Broste Copenhagen 4 A marble and wood platter for fireside fromage.

Inlay cheese board, H1.3xW24.5xD24.5cm, £35, Oliver Bonas

Donning chaletstyle chic for Alpine excursions! Kendal funnel-neck sweater, £95; Alpine Aran beanie, £39, both Peregrine

Savouring the magical countdown to the main event...

‘Twas the night…’ banner, £25, Darwin & Gray

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8 5 Dressing the tree (trunk) with delicate winterberry embroidery and mini pom-poms. Hima handmade felt tree skirt, Dia132cm, £78, Sophie Conran 6 Countryside motifs on a Christmas stocking. Garden Bird stocking in Red, 55x40cm, £30, Sam Wilson 7 A tuneful contribution to Christmas Jumper Day! Festive Fair Isle jumper, £90, Boden 8 Allotment inspirations for a treescape with a difference. Garden glass greenhouse bauble, £8, John Lewis & Partners COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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A peaceful sanctuary to retreat, restore and revive…

Pale Grey linen pillowcases, £23 each; double fitted sheet, £95; double duvet cover, £145, all Nordic House

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9 An Advent candleholder, traditionally lit on the four Sundays before Christmas. Zinc hanging candleholder, Dia34.5cm, £20, Nordic House 10 Teeny tiny twinkles for a winter wonderland look. Nordic Christmas Silver wire LED string lights, L4.25m, £12.95, Rex London 11 Statement decs in pretty pleated paper!

Peaches and cream decoration, 45cm, £12, RE-Found Objects 12 Inviting and super-squishy seating... Alaska faux-fur bean bag in Silver, H61xW61xL61cm, £395, Feather & Black

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A parade of penguins!

Cake plates, £41.50 for four; mug, £15.50; footed cake plate, £50; pastry forks, £21 for four, all Sara Miller London

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13 A favourite recipe in handwritten text... Recipe dish, Dia28cm, £96, Gemma Wightman Ceramics at Notonthehighstreet.com 14 Toasting with gorgeously gleeful glassware Christmas Village Champagne glasses, H24.5xDia6.5cm, £20 for two, Cath Kidston 15 Cosy cuddles with a chunky hottie! Hot water bottle cover, 34x20cm, £33, Spindle and Skein at Etsy. 16 Sloping arms and sumptuous fabrics to sit back and relax in... Alwinton Snuggler in Lumino Wine, from £997, Sofas & Stuff 14

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

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C O U N T R Y D AY S

Letterbox lovelies to spread seasonal joy and affection.

National Trust Christmas cards, from £4 for a pack of 10, National Trust Shop

Things we canÕt live without...

❝

❞

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Firing imaginations for over 37 years

Woodburning

| gas

M u lt i - F u e l

| electric

Find your local retailer at stovax.com

NEW AND INTERESTING

DESIGN NEWS The new way to wrap As much a gift as the present itself, this cloth is a sustainable (and lovely) approach to gift-wrapping. Based on Japanese furoshiki cloths, the reusable fabric comes in four distinctive, artist-created designs.

Once unwrapped, it’s the gift that keeps on giving – use as a lightweight throw, bag or tablecloth.

The Cloth, £10, The Organic Company at Chalk & Moss.

FRESH GREENS ON THE SCENE

THE ONLY NAVY YOU NEED Looking for the perfect inky shade? We think Annie Sloan’s new Oxford Navy is it. The latest addition to her chalk paint palette takes its name from Oxford University’s insignia, while paying homage to the brand’s Oxford HQ. Partner with pops of red for a rich look full of contrast.

Oxford Navy, £19.95 for 1L.

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Graham & Brown and Dulux are both forecasting green as 2020’s go-to shade. Graham & Brown unveiled its Adeline paint, a rich, bottle green that partners perfectly with its archival-style Bloomsbury Neo Mint wallpaper. While Dulux’s new shade, Tranquil Dawn (right), is inspired by the morning sky. Tranquil Dawn ‘Colour of The Year 2020’ matt emulsion, £29.16 for 2.5L, Dulux.

BRIDGEWATER BRINGS THE GLITZ Emma Bridgewater has added a Midas touch to two new tableware collections. Bring in the Green features a pattern of rosemary, bay and holly, with a fanfare of gold horns, while Gold Toast is awash with festive precious metal lettering.

Prices start at £17.95 for a mince pie plate.

Shop our country furniture collection Taking country living and loving into exciting new territory, we’ve partnered with our friends at One.World to create an exclusive new furniture collection of modern country pieces to suit every home style, from chocolate-box cottage to contemporary barn conversion. Pop online to be properly introduced and shop the full range of rustic beauties now. The Carved side table (pictured) is made from reclaimed pine, £225.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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HEREFORDSHIRE TOWNHOUSE

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR Kate Hollingsworth’s elegant period home is a sumptuous setting for the festive season

Living room Kate has created a sophisticated scheme with a palette of greys and pops of pink.

Chesterfield sofa, Baileys.

The Arboleda coffee table from Wayfair is similar. Celtic & Co’s Yeti sheepskins in Grey and White are a match

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 21

Hallway The house has generous proportions and this space is bright and welcoming thanks to the original glazing.

The chandelier came with the house; for similar, try the Searchlight Louis Philipe crystal chandelier, Castlegate Lights.

Bench, Camperdown Lane

HEREFORDSHIRE TOWNHOUSE

C

hristmas is the one time of year that seasoned renovator Kate Hollingsworth downs tools. By her own admission, her house is busy all year round but, for a few days, the hustle and bustle comes to a halt and Kate is able to dress it beautifully for the festive season. ‘The house is a backdrop to photoshoots for Camperdown Lane, the interiors boutique that I run with my sisters, so it’s quite chaotic,’ she says. ‘When I do stop, it’s lovely to give the interior some attention.’

Kate is still discovering how to make the house seasonally stylish.

‘I tend to move every three to four years, but this is the biggest, boldest move I’ve made,’ she says. ‘Our first winter here was cold and damp, and I was beginning to wonder what I had done.

Repairing a leaky roof, an ancient boiler and extensive damp used more of my budget than planned and really slowed the work.’

Luckily, Kate has a trusty team of pros to call on – tradespeople who have worked on her previous house projects with her.

The house had been carved up into seven bedsits at some point in the past and, once it had been reinstated to a single dwelling, there was a number of telltale signs, such as sliced coving and gnarled floorboards, that needed rectifying.

The main priority was creating a larger kitchen. It was one of the smaller, more poky rooms and was separate from the main living spaces. ‘I had initially planned to live with the existing layout,’ explains Kate, ‘but, in reality, it just didn’t work.’ It was accessed by a door at the end of a corridor, which made it feel disconnected from the rest of the house, plus it was north-facing so it was dark and chilly. Kate applied to the planning department to move the doorway. ‘I wanted a wider opening opposite the dining room that would let light from the south side flood in,’ she adds. ‘But then I discovered that the floor joists were rotten and the windows needed changing, so we were without a kitchen for 10 months.’

Another big decision was what to do with the floors. Practicalities and budgets prevented anything too lavish, so Kate tackled the problem herself and waxed and polished them on her hands and knees. Finally, she could move on to the fun part of decorating her house. Describing her interiors style as relaxed and elegant with a dose of glamour, Kate is drawn to feminine neutrals, including pink. But this house can take a strong look, too, and she has been bold in her use of darker shades for a cosy feel.

Upstairs, the darker palette particularly suits the boys’ rooms.

‘I made a bit of mistake in my own bedroom,’ she says. ‘I chose a grey hue that is way too cool, so it’s next on my to-do list. It’s a lovely big room though, with double windows and fabulous light.’

With rooms of these proportions, the furniture needs to be oversized. ‘Even a large-sized lamp can look lost, so it can be a challenge to find the right furniture,’ says Kate. ‘But I love going to auctions and sourcing vintage pieces, and it certainly helps having your own shop.’ One solution Kate found was to opt for bespoke, having her dining table made by the joiner who built her kitchen. ‘I wanted to be able to get 10 chairs around it,’ she says. ‘On Christmas Day we all just kind of squash in – it’s lovely.’ >

AT HOM E WI T H. . .

Owner Kate Hollingsworth, co-founder of Camperdown Lane (camperdownlane.com), an interior accessories shop she runs with her two sisters. She lives with her sons, Jake, 15 and Billy, 13, plus cats, Cosmo and Luna.

House Late-Victorian detached house with five bedrooms. The family moved in 2017.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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HEREFORDSHIRE TOWNHOUSE

Dining room The wooden side table was a vintage find. Lamp, cushions, all Camperdown Lane

ON MY DOOR STEP. ..

Visit… ‘There is always so much going on at Hereford Cathedral (herefordcathedral.org). We are also surrounded by lots of little market towns, including Ledbury, Ross-on-Wye and Hay-on-Wye – all great for mooching around for antiques.’

Shop at… ‘The Tupsley Butchers (tupsleybutchers.co.uk) is very popular.

For interiors, I like Printer + Tailor (printerandtailor.com). Its colourful, mid-century style is great for gifts.’

Go for a meal at… ‘The Greenman (thegreenman.co) in Fownhope is a village pub with a great reputation. Its menu is based around locally-sourced, seasonal produce.’

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Landing A small seat provides a pause point.

Bench, cushion and throws, all Camperdown Lane.

HEREFORD IS ❝ A SMALL TOWN –

YOU CAN WALK EVERYWHERE. MY SISTER IS LESS THAN A MILE AWAY AND THE COUNTRYSIDE IS NEARBY

❞

Dining room Kate picked a dark shade for the walls to create a feeling of intimacy for entertaining. Walls in Down Pipe, Farrow & Ball. Chairs, a vintage find, painted in Off Black by Farrow & Ball and reupholstered by Kate

WHEN I STOP WORK ❝FOR CHRISTMAS, IT’S

LOVELY TO GIVE THE INTERIOR SOME FESTIVE CARE AND ATTENTION

❞

Kitchen The Aga came with the house and creates a focal point in the monochrome scheme. Table, antique find.

Chairs, auction finds, painted in Railings and Strong White; walls in Strong White, all Farrow & Ball

HEREFORDSHIRE TOWNHOUSE

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 27

HEREFORDSHIRE TOWNHOUSE

FEATURE SARA BIRD PHOTOGRAPHS DAN DUCHARS

Bedroom Kate has created a cosy scheme with pops of pink, sheepskins and faux-fur accessories. Walls in Sail White, Crown. Bed, Loaf. Bench, Also Home. Curtain fabric, Tinsmiths

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Bedroom The Graham & Green crate is used for special deliveries to Billy’s room at this time of year.

Bedroom Jake’s room feels seamless and sophisticated, but still cosy. Walls in Plummett, Farrow & Ball. Blind, Paula’s Blinds

LIVI NG TH E DR EAM Running her own interiors shop enables Kate to indulge her love of Christmas decor, as well as incorporating the latest trends

What is your must-have Christmas decoration?

‘A carved, white-painted wooden tree that stands about 10 inches tall. I bought it at a Christmas fair eight years ago and I still love it.’

What is your Christmas decorating style?

‘Quite traditional, with lots of twinkly lights, greenery and, of course, a bit of sparkle.

Candlelight is a must, too. All of the things that conjure up childhood nostalgia.’

Do you have any new styling ideas for this year?

‘I’ll be gathering a few festive creatures, such as the standing moose figures we sell at Camperdown Lane. They look so lovely on the mantel, among candles and foliage.’

Bathroom Kate has created a tranquil feel with a palette of neutrals and Carrara marble-effect porcelain tiles. Bath fittings, White Hall Bathrooms

Bedroom Even Billy’s bedside furniture gets the Christmas treatment. Chest of drawers, John Lewis & Partners

GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by BILLY’S BEDROOM...

Add some wintry friends...

Felt squirrel, reindeer and Santa decorations, £15 for three, Great Little Trading Company Add an extra layer of warmth with a New England-style quilted cover.

Icons star bedspread in Navy, 160x240cm, £195, Lexington

As strokable as a teddy bear...

Trowbridge faux-fur cushion in Arctic Wolf Grey, 43x43cm, £23.99, Fjørde & Co at Wayfair

CH&I loves...

STARRY-SKY GIFTWRAP

CH&I This clever-clogs is two beds in one, with a trundle on castors – the perfect pick for sleepovers!

Charterhouse bed in Antique White, H92xW98xL203cm, £725, Aspace

MODERN Country CLASSIC

These recycled wood characters are super handy for stacked storage all year round.

Shallow apple box crate, H19xW30xL43cm, £25, The Basket Company

Enjoy the benefits of nature without the need for green fingers.

Flora faux pine tree, H72cm, £93.75, The Taylor

Stars, £9.95 for five sheets, Nancy & Betty Studio

Star Night, from £7.95 a sheet, Juniqe

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

KateÕs style tip...

Paint walls with a warm blue that adds contrast and depth without dominating...

Juniper Ash intelligent matt emulsion, £50 for 2.5L, Little Greene

CREATE A TRANSITIONAL ROOM WITH CLASSIC PIECES AND A BOLD PALETTE THAT LOOKS VIBRANT WITHOUT BEING TOO CHILDISH

Constellation, from £3 a sheet, Laura Crow at Notonthehighstreet.com

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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SURREY COUNTRY HOUSE

Exterior Gav built the porch using reclaimed timbers from a local barn that was being torn down. Reclaimed front door in Cinder Rose by Farrow & Ball

A FESTIVE WELCOME

A fairytale porch crafted in oak is just one way Sally and Gav Hurman have added character to their 1950s home COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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SURREY COUNTRY HOUSE

Kitchen-diner Sally and Gav added Shaker units and refreshed a table and chairs that belonged to Gav’s mother. Cabinetry, DG Clifton & Son. Table in Cream; chairs in Paris Grey, Duck Egg Blue and Antoinette, all Annie Sloan.

St Arbois tumbled limestone flooring, Mandarin Stone

Kitchen-diner This corner provides the perfect reading spot.

Bluebell Chaise, Sofa.com.

Liberty print cushion, John Lewis & Partners.

Flamingo side table, Urban Outfitters

T

aking in the tongue-and-groove panelling laden with Christmas decorations, the solid limestone flooring beneath the festively dressed dining table, and, in each of the two living rooms, exposed brickwork festooned with wintry foliage, this Surrey home could be mistaken for a beautifully restored farmhouse. Add an oak porch wrapped in lights and a pink front door adorned with a wreath, and the bucolic scene is complete. Yet this house has a secret – it was not built in the 18th or even the 19th century, but in the 1950s.

‘Our first house as newlyweds was an older worker’s cottage nearby,’ say Sally Hurman, who bought this property with her husband, Gav, 13 years ago. ‘We loved our home, but, with the arrival of our three boys, we needed more space. This house and its 2.5-acre plot offered the country lifestyle we wanted, minus a frightening price tag. While renovating and extending the property, we tried to recreate the character of an old house, using reclaimed and natural materials.’

The illusion is complete, largely thanks to a two-year planning period. ‘We wanted to get to know the house really well first,’ says Sally. ‘We had to figure out exactly what needed changing and what could be left. When we were ready to begin, we decided to stay on site in >

AT HOME WITH...

Owners Sally Hurman, an interiors and lifestyle blogger, and ambassador for stem cell charity DKMS (gettingstuffdoneinheels.com/ @gettingstuffdoneinheels); her husband Gav is the CEO of his own company. They live here with their sons, Jake, 22, Sam, 20, and Toby, 16, plus Molly the dog, cats Beryl and Margot, and four chickens.

House Fifties house with four bedrooms. The family moved here in 2006.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 35

WE TRIED TO RECREATE THE CHARACTER ❝ OF OLD HOMES USING RECLAIMED BRICK AND TIMBER, AS WELL AS NATURAL MATERIALS❞

Living area Sally and Gav built this sociable space off the kitchen-diner and installed floor-to-ceiling tongue-and-groove panelling.

Sofas, Ikea. Mustard velvet cushions, (left) H&M Home; (right) One 40. Rug, Very

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SURREY COUNTRY HOUSE

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 37

Bathroom Panelling on the walls and the bath injects a rustic feel.

Tongue-and-groove in Plummet; walls in Peignoir, both Farrow & Ball. Mr Jones floor tiles, Laura Ashley

a caravan to save paying rent on another house; plus, as Gav was project managing the work, he could be on hand to answer the builders’ questions.’

The building soon began to take shape, and Sally could use her design skills to plan the interior. ‘As much as I love a neutral backdrop,’ she says, ‘especially all the natural materials we’ve used throughout the house, I’m truly passionate about colour. Although I’ve kept my palette restricted to chalky greys, pinks and berry tones, I’ve incorporated brighter accessories, such as cushions and blankets, which can easily be swapped.’

Sally also likes to use natural decorations throughout the year. ‘Flowers and garlands play a big part in how I style the house, especially at Christmas,’ she says. ‘My friend, Lulu Hampson, is a floral stylist and she’s shown me a few tricks, including how to mix foraged foliage and cut flowers with a few faux decorations to create more dramatic and long-lasting arrangements.

‘It’s funny to think we’ve celebrated 13 Christmases here,’ she continues. ‘The boys have done most of their growing up in this house and I’ve grown, too, creating a career based on the work we’ve done to our home.

This place has looked after us the same way we’ve looked after it, and I wouldn’t swap it for anything.’

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Presents wrapped and ready for the big day. Present sack, Notonthehighstreet. com

LIVING THE DREAM Sally and Gav enhanced the character of their 1950s home with reclaimed and natural materials

Where did you source the materials?

‘We found items both online and at salvage yards. You have to be a bit canny – an old cast iron bath may look great, but if it has to be re-enamelled, it might not be the bargain it seems.’

Did you reuse anything from the site?

‘We repurposed some doors, and where we needed more, had them made to match. The Aga was reconditioned and re-enamelled.’

Are there any things to consider when using reclaimed pieces?

‘Don’t go mad on different periods and cram them all in – the different styles would jar together.’

SURREY COUNTRY HOUSE

AND GARLANDS PLAY A BIG PART ❝INFLOWERS HOW I STYLE THE HOUSE, ESPECIALLY AT CHRISTMAS – I LOVE MAKING IT FEEL FESTIVE ❞

Master bedroom Sally has created an elegant scheme with a damask wallcovering. Josette wallpaper, Laura Ashley.

Aged pine furniture, blankets and cushions, John Lewis & Partners. Metal bedstead, Bensons for Beds

SURREY COUNTRY HOUSE

ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit… ‘Winkworth Arboretum

FEATURE NAOMI JONES PHOTOGRAPHS ROBERT SANDERSON FOR EVENT DESIGN, STYLING AND FLORISTRY, CONTACT LULU HAMPSON, LULUHAMPSON.COM

(nationaltrust.org.uk/winkwortharboretum). We like to take Molly as we explore the landscape and be inspired by the vibrant colours of the beautiful planting all year round.’

Shop at… ‘We go to Manns of Cranleigh (mannsofcranleigh.co.uk) for our paint and carpet supplies – the staff have a wealth of knowledge and are so helpful. Also, One 40 (oneforty.co.uk) in Cranleigh for gorgeous homeware, faux flowers and stylish fashion finds.’

Go for a meal at… ‘The Richard Onslow (therichardonslow. co.uk) in Cranleigh for delicious bacon butties and breakfast tea after a Sunday morning dog walk.’

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

INTRODUCING OUR NEW COLLECTION OF LUXURY CURTAINS AND ROMAN BLINDS Working with Harlequin, renowned for their bold use of colour, pattern and design, we have curated a stunning collection of curtains and romans, available with our bespoke service.

Book your in home design consultation: 0800 688 8118 or visit thomas-sanderson.co.uk

GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by SALLYÕS SITTING ROOM A window pane mirror adds an instant visual lift above a mantel.

Windowpane mirror, 90x68cm, £129, Marks & Spencer

Pick this vibrant velvet design, featuring contrast pink piping.

Pelham cushion in Pear/Piedra, 55x55cm, £59, Andrew Martin

Add rustic Scandi charm with this quirky piece of wall art, crafted from metal and displaying a wonderfully distressed patina.

Metal barn star, H30.5xW30.5x D3cm, £12.95, Melody Maison

CH&I loves...

JEWEL BAUBLES

CH&I

MODERN Country CLASSIC

TracyÕs style tip...

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Stay toasty throughout the winter months with this cast iron focal point.

Fortrose Optimyst electric stove, H66xW62xD39cm, £769, Dimplex

ARRANGE COMFY FURNITURE IN VIBRANT CONTRAST COLOURS TO BRING COMFORT AND JOY TO FAMILY LIVING AREAS Sink into luxuriously rich seating in a true-blue hue.

Saturday two-and-a-half-seater sofa in Cobalt smart velvet, H86xW198xD108cm, £1,840, Sofa.com

Treat tootsies to some Moroccan-inspired escapism underfoot with this generously proportioned, decorative rug.

Afaw XXL rug in Black and White, 240x330cm, £399, La Redoute

Kelar beaded bauble, £8, Habitat

Peacock glass bauble, £5, Natural History Museum

Campfire glass pinecone, £7, John Lewis & Partners

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

43

ALL THE TRIMMINGS Leaving London for country life has made Christmas even more special for Lucy and Anthony Wakefield

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

HAMPSHIRE VILLAGE HOUSE

Living room Festive reds inject cosy colour.

Mountain spruce; Christmas tree lights, both Lights4fun.

Walls painted in Portland Stone, Little Greene. Cayuga rug and matching cushions, all Oka. Fireplace, Thornhill Galleries

HAMPSHIRE VILLAGE HOUSE

MUTED BACKGROUND TONES, WITH ❝ENERGISING SPLASHES OF COLOUR IN CUSHIONS, RUGS AND THROWS, SEEMED A GOOD WAY TO GO

❞

Living room Bright cushions inject colour into this relaxing space.

Octagonal table, Java.

Wreath, Gisela Graham.

LED candles, Lights4fun.

Wrapping paper, Cox & Cox

Dining area Useful seating is tucked next to the dining table.

Sofa, Sofa Workshop.

Yellow and Ayabaca cushions, all Oka

Hallway Garlands adorn the banisters for maximum impact. Walls painted in Skimming Stone, Farrow & Ball. Garlands, Lights4fun

L

ucy Wakefield’s countdown to Christmas kicks off when the lights are switched on in her village and an invitation to an evening of carols and mulled wine arrives through her letterbox.

‘This is typical of the friendly, all-inclusive hospitality that characterises our village,’ says Lucy, who moved here three years ago with her husband Anthony and their children, Lara and Oscar. ‘For the carol evening, everyone piles into the barn for a festive sing-along. The Nativity service at the Saxon church in the village is also an all-inclusive fun event. The children dress up according to what part they intend to play. We usually end up with a lot of little girls dressed as Mary, lots of little boys dressed as kings, and toddlers dressed as sheep.’

Both Lucy and Anthony grew up in London, so moving to the country was something of an unknown adventure. The couple looked first for houses to buy in the Surrey area, but then extended their search into Hampshire and eventually found a large family house in lookalike Georgian style with five bedrooms and a large well-stocked garden. ‘Not only was the location suitably rural, but the village had that community spirit we had been looking for, plus it was only an hour’s drive to work for Anthony,’ says Lucy.

Built in the mid-Nineties, the house had a modern red brick façade, so the couple’s first decision was to age the >

AT HOME WITH...

Owners Lucy Wakefield and her husband Anthony, who runs an antique fireplace business passed down through the family, live here with their children Lara, seven, Oscar, four, and Phoebe, the Birman cat.

House Georgian-style village house with five bedrooms. They moved in three years ago.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

47

Kitchen Shaker-style cabinets are painted to complement the flooring. Units painted in Truffle, Paint & Paper Library. Bar stools, Loaf.

Christmas cake, Bettys

exterior by replacing the modern bricks with a mellowed, reclaimed variety. ‘Some villagers thought we were mad when we explained that we were slicing up 15,000 bricks into 2cm veneers to stick onto our exterior façade, but we love the end result,’ says Lucy.

Inside, the house was full of light with generous proportions, large Georgian-sized windows, high ceilings and square rooms. There were just a few aspects of the layout that didn’t fit their lifestyle.

They tracked down Barry Bowhill, the original architect, and asked him to design alteration plans. ‘The dining room was separated from the kitchen and as we didn’t need a formal dining room, we knocked these spaces into one and laid a traditional stone floor. We wanted a larger, more social kitchen where friends could chat and share a drink with us while we cooked.’

The family also discovered that the living room was being underused. ‘It felt cut off from the kitchen, so we installed a new door between the two rooms,’ says Lucy.

Finally, a small room on the other side of the kitchen was turned into a playroom for Lara and Oscar and their toys.

After two years of living in the house, the family bathroom felt somewhat small. ‘We decided to knock down the wall between the bathroom and the adjoining study, which meant we were left without a study for Anthony, but a bigger bathroom,’ says Lucy. ‘That’s when > 48

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

LIVING THE DREAM Lucy and Anthony know how to create a centrepiece with a cosy fireplace.

What’s so special about a fire at this time of year?

‘We love the flickering glow and warmth of an open fire.’

What do antique fireplaces add to a room?

‘Character and a reminder of our rich history, which is often lacking in a modern house like ours.’

What should you look for in a fireplace?

‘If you live in a period property, find an antique fireplace to match the date of your house. Edwardian ones designed for bedrooms are great for small rooms.

Overscaled ones create grandeur.’

Top tip?

‘If you don’t have a fireplace, building a dummy chimney breast is easier than ever, using bio ethanol burners that can be hidden in a traditional fire basket and do not require a flue.’

HAMPSHIRE VILLAGE HOUSE

Dining area Painting the chimney breast a contrasting colour draws attention to the fireplace.

Feature wall painted in Charleston Gray, Farrow & Ball. Dining chairs, Lombok. Baubles, India Jane

Exterior Lucy and Anthony gave the Georgian-style house an older feel by adding mellowed reclaimed bricks to the façade

Family bathroom A whitewashed wooden floor creates a light, clean Scandi feel. Wall tiles, Mandarin Stone. Bath, Victoria and Albert

I DON’T CO-ORDINATE SPACES TOO ❝EXACTLY. A BIT OF MISMATCH FEELS MORE HOMELY AND LESS STAGED ❞

Oscar’s room A maritime theme is introduced with seaside fabrics. Fabrics, Romo

HAMPSHIRE VILLAGE HOUSE

Main bedroom Lucy updates accessories to reflect the seasons. Red and pink hues add a warm winter vibe. Kantha bedspread, Kelling Designs. Bedside table, Feather & Black

Riverside walk

FEATURE MAGGIE COLVIN PHOTOGRAPHS ROBERT SANDERSON

Lucy’s home is moments away from beautiful countryside

we got the idea of converting the double garage into a large study linked to the rest of the house.’

As the building work progressed, Lucy chose Thomas Davies Kitchens to create a rural Shaker-style kitchen.

Pinterest provided inspiration for storage ideas and colour schemes. ‘Muted, calm background shades, with energising splashes of colour in cushions, rugs and throws, seemed a good way to go,’ says Lucy, whose accent colours vary from room to room. ‘In a large house there is more flexibility and less need to colour co-ordinate spaces too exactly. I like a bit of deliberate mismatch.

It feels more homely and less staged.’

Anthony inherited an antique fireplace business dating back to 1880 from his family, so unique fireplaces are the ultimate showstoppers in all the main rooms and they help enhance the traditional feel. At Christmas they come into their own. Lucy picks fir, ivy and other foliage from the garden and dresses the house with help from Lara and Oscar.

‘I’m thinking of giving the children their own tree to decorate this year,’ says Lucy. ‘I hope it will keep them distracted while I get on with the larger grown-up decorations and table settings. The children both love helping me cook mince pies and cutting shapes out of pastry. We spend time together making Christmas biscuits in the kitchen. It is a challenge to hide them away, so they don’t all get eaten before Christmas Day!’

ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit… ‘Hinton Ampner (nationaltrust.org.uk/ hintonampner) near Alresford. It’s a gem of a National Trust property where we love to walk, the children can run wild and we share family picnics with friends.’

Shop at… ‘Long Barn (longbarn.co.uk), Alresford – you will always find uniquely stylish home accessories.’

Go for a meal at…

‘The Shoe (theshoeexton.co.uk), Exton, our local pub where we often go as a family to feast on a delicious Sunday roast in front of a roaring log fire.’

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

51

#wearemorrisandco Go online to find your retailer, stylelibrary.com/morris&co

ROOM IDEAS

Be inspired by LUCY’S DINING ROOM...

Add magic to tabletops with a staggered run of artisan silhouettes.

Glass candlestick in Art Deco Pink, H21cm, £24, Sophie Conran

CH&I

MODERN Country CLASSIC

Choose quality craftsmanship with these elegant seats.

Theodore oak chairs, H89.5x W50.5xD53.5cm, £179 for two, Perch & Parrow

Drape eucalyptus and laurel along a mantel or sideboard and entwine with fairy lights for extra twinkle!

Winter lake mixed foliage garland, L150cm, £24.99, Lights4Fun

Lay linens adorned with handillustrated herbs.

Rosemary napkin, 50x50cm, £45 for set of six assorted designs, Fee Greening at Polkra

CH&I loves...

CLAY SHADES OF PAINT

LucyÕs style tip...

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

TO MAKE GUESTS FEEL EXTRA SPECIAL, DECORATE CHAIRS BY TYING A SINGLE BAUBLE AND FOLIAGE SPRIG WITH A PRETTY RIBBON OR RUSTIC TWINE

Handmade from chunky timber for a gorgeously rustic finish, this piece is rich in grainy character.

Chopwell dining table in medium rustic oak, H78xW90xL150cm, £355, Chunky Funky Furniture Co

Use these discreet fittings on a dimmer for ambience.

Fire rated recessed downlight in brushed chrome, £13.20, ULS Lighting at The Lighting Company

Reflect everything merry and bright with a design that can be mounted horizontally or vertically to suit any space.

Croft rectangular wall mirror in Cream, 60x80cm, £95, John Lewis & Partners

Hemp Beige 1825 chalky emulsion, £35 for 2.5L, Craig & Rose

Pheasant elite emulsion, £49 for 2.5L, Zoffany at Style Library

Elephant’s Breath estate emulsion, £46.50 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

53

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

Exterior A dark grey front door stands out against the red brickwork.

Front door painted in Down Pipe by Farrow & Ball. Wreath, The White Company

A COTTAGE MADE FOR CHRISTMAS Gabrella Barren-Williams and Stuart Burgess’s cosy house is the perfect place to spend the festive season COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

55

Kitchen The stainless-steel range cooker adds a modern touch. Cabinets and island, Devol, painted in Verbena. Range cooker, Fisher & Paykel

H

olly Lodge Cottage, the home of Gabrella Barren-Williams, her husband Stuart Burgess and their son Callum, is the perfect name for a house at this time of year. And with its cosy and elegantly festive interior, it definitely comes into its own at Christmas.

Having lived deep in the countryside while Callum was younger, Gabrella and Stuart decided to move closer to Callum’s school once he reached his teens.

The couple hunted for a house in a pretty village they had lived in previously. ‘There were lots of Eighties’ and Nineties’ houses around, which we didn’t want,’ says Gabrella. ‘I like very modern houses, but Stuart likes period properties.’ Then they found a period cottage on the outskirts of the village. ‘It was priced above our range,’ says Gabrella. ‘I said “Let’s see it” and Stuart said “Let’s not!”.’ The couple did view the house, attracted by its quiet location. ‘It was a mix of old and new as it had been extended,’ says Gabrella. ‘The owners had renovated it and there was already a lovely Devol kitchen and a stunning bathroom. The base was there for us to add our stamp. The owners wanted to sell it quickly, so we bought it within two viewings.’

Although Gabrella and Stuart loved the cottage, they made a couple of major changes to suit their lifestyle. An > 56

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

AT HOME WITH...

Owners Gabrella Barren-Williams and her husband Stuart Burgess, who is an information management consultant, live here with their son Callum, 16, and Peanut the cat.

House 120-year-old cottage with four bedrooms, plus a separate barn with a living room, bedroom and bathroom.

They moved in four years ago.

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

Living room Pops of green inject interest in the off-white scheme. Sofa, Loaf. Coffee table, Otters Barn Interiors. Velvet cushions, John Lewis & Partners

Entrance porch A mirror throws light back into the space. Mirror, The Vintage Look.

Bench, Otters Barn Interiors

Sitting area Soft pink walls help create a cosy feel. Sofa, John Lewis & Partners. Walls painted in Middleton Pink by Farrow & Ball. Coffee table, Lombok

unused and shady courtyard was transformed into a garden room extension that leads on from the openplan dining area. Contemporary floor-to-ceiling doors provide views of the garden, as well as injecting the modern look that Gabrella loves, and contrast with the Victorian architecture. A large roof lantern helps flood the room with light, while underfloor heating and a woodburner ensure that the space works equally well in winter and summer. Gabrella chose a white leather modular sofa as the centrepiece. ‘I wanted to create a modern, simple look that wasn’t too fussy,’ she says.

The couple’s next project was to transform a small wooden garage into barn accommodation for guests.

‘We have four bedrooms but one is a box room, so we thought it would work well to have extra space,’ says Gabrella. ‘It is ideal if an older relative comes to stay as there are no stairs, and guests can have their own space, complete with a sitting area, bathroom and bedroom. It has lots of atmosphere as it has wooden rafters and we also re-used the old garage doors to partition off the bathroom, which creates a real feature.’

As the bathroom installed in the main house by the previous owners, with its stunning William Holland nickel bateau bath, was exactly as Gabrella and Stuart would have chosen, they were inspired to replicate the > 58

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

LIVING THE DREAM Gabrella and Stuart’s contemporarystyle garden room gives their Victorian cottage a modern twist.

How did you design it?

‘We’d seen the company Apropos in several magazines and liked their modern industrial style – they use coated metal instead of wood. Their designer came up with suggestions to achieve the look we wanted.’

What does the room bring to the cottage?

‘It has achieved everything we wanted – with its floor-to-ceiling doors it steps straight into the garden, bringing the outside in and adding a lot more light into the kitchen area.’

What do you use it for?

‘It’s a great place for entertaining. At Christmas after dinner we move to the garden room with the woodburner lit, Christmas tree twinkling and relax.’

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

Dining area A roof lantern allows light to pour in above the large trestle table. Table and bench, Lounge in the Garden. Lights, French House

Guest bedroom A toile feature wall injects colour and complements the Gustavian-style bed.

Chandelier, antiques fair.

Walls painted in House White by Farrow & Ball

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

ON OUR DOORSTEP Visit… ‘Stonor (stonor.com), near Henley-on-Thames, a beautiful country house that’s lovely when it’s decorated for Christmas. It also hosts the Country Homes & Interiors Christmas show (ichfevents.co.uk/ countryhomeschristmas), which is a great place to buy unique gifts.’

Shop at…‘Home Barn (homebarnshop.co.uk) near Marlow, for vintage, reclaimed and locally crafted home furnishings.’

Go for a meal at… ‘The Bottle & Glass Inn (bottleandglassinn.com) at Binfield Heath, which has a great seasonal menu. The Crooked Billet (thecrookedbillet.co.uk) at Stoke Row offers modern and classic British cuisine using local produce.’

FEATURE VIVIENNE AYERS PHOTOGRAPHS POLLY ELTES

look, but with a contemporary twist in the barn bathroom by installing a copper bateau bath.

When it came to the main house, Gabrella and Stuart repainted throughout with a neutral palette as a relaxing backdrop. ‘Because we’re in a country location, we have used lots of natural materials,’ says Gabrella.

‘I wanted to create a homely and cosy, but also contemporary look.’ Raw wood and painted furniture add to the modern rustic feel, including a 3.5m long dining table made from reclaimed scaffolding planks.

The cottage works particularly well at Christmas as the three separate seating areas and open-plan dining area are perfect for entertaining. ‘People expect the house to be small, but it’s surprising how big it is inside,’ says Gabrella. ‘We move around in it a lot and use each space. We’ve had three Christmases here now and with the log-burning stoves, the cottage is really cosy and warm. During the holiday period, we have friends and family here. We spend a lot of time in the main living room because it has a woodburner and it’s where we put our big tree. I love getting everything ready for Christmas and enjoy decorating and putting up the lights. I’m well prepared as I like to have everything up by the beginning of December. If you go to a lot of effort, you want to be able to enjoy it for a while.’

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

BECAUSE WE’RE IN A COUNTRY ❝ LOCATION, WE HAVE USED LOTS OF NATURAL MATERIALS. I WANTED TO CREATE A HOMELY AND COSY, BUT ALSO CONTEMPORARY LOOK

❞

Bathroom A freestanding nickel bateau bath makes a luxurious centrepoint.

Bath, William Holland.

Stool, Cox & Cox

GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by GABRELLA’S BEDROOM...

Dazzle with dripping crystals that catch the light...

Charlotte five-arm chrome chandelier, H60x L100xD53xcm, £250, Laura Ashley

Perk up a wall or prop on a shelf to create a display to admire all year round...

Brass star, H38.5xW38.5x D1cm, £24.95, Rose & Grey

CH&I loves...

TOILE WALLS Keep this versatile blanket to hand for a cosy neutral scheme.

Super soft throw in Earl Grey, 194x148cm, £132, Tolly McRae

Sleep Gustavian style on this classic bedstead, which can be tailored to your requirements.

Verona double bed in Calico/ Silvery Moon, H127xW146x L201cm, £1,045, Feather & Black

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

MODERN Country CLASSIC Add some bedside sparkle with playful storage, woven using traditional techniques.

Toulouse sequin basket in Silver, H30xL30xW30cm, £22, Dassie Artisan

Toile regency in Coral, £55 a roll, SketchTwenty3 Wallpapers at Wallpaper Direct

Up the decorative snuggle factor at bedtime…

Pavilion Chic Stag Stanley cushion, 45x45cm, £25, Pavilion Broadway

Gabrella’s style tip...

COMBINE A CLASSIC FEATURE WALL AND HERO FURNITURE WITH SUBTLE CONTEMPORARY ACCENTS

Pillemont, £68 a roll, Sanderson at Style Library

Versailles Folie, £135 a roll, Cole & Son

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

63

❝I love watching stressed

people relax at my wreath making workshops❞

T

FLORIST SARAH WILLIAMSON-JONES

aking part in an informal wreathmaking afternoon at her daughter’s school five years ago was the catalyst that set Sarah Williamson-Jones on the path to an entirely new career. ‘I’d had a country childhood in the Cotswolds and always loved everything botanical – I even took a biology degree specialising in crop and soil science – but I ended up working for many years as a market researcher and customer analyst for a telecommunications company,’ Sarah explains. ‘I enjoyed it, but was at the point when I wanted to do something for myself, even though I wasn’t quite sure what.’

That creative afternoon session proved a eureka moment. ‘I absolutely loved it,’ Sarah recalls. ‘It was so satisfying to create something lovely from flowers and foliage.

I just wanted to carry on doing it!’

And so she did, enrolling on various workshops and absorbing as much as she could along the way. By this time, she had no doubt that her future career would be floristry. ‘I chose not to take a formal business course in the end, however,’ she says. ‘Those I researched included a lot of practicalities

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

about running a concern, and I realised I already knew most of that because of what I’d done before. I took an intensive one-on-one course instead that focused much more on the craft itself – and when I’d finished, I took the plunge!’

Sarah initially created bouquets and displays for small events through her circle of family and friends, developing a floral style that was naturally informal, and word quickly spread about the newly named Pod & Pip. ‘I got busier – and more confident – and decided that along with supplying flowers, I would also hold informal workshops. There didn’t seem to be anything similar in my area, and I thought it would offer something creative and different.’

She held the first one, on creating bouquets, in the garden room of her former family home. ‘I was really nervous and spent ages preparing but it was a huge success,’ she remembers. ‘I kept the numbers small, just as I do now, so that I could give each attendee personal attention. It was such a thrill to see how much everyone enjoyed it, and it gave me the motivation I needed to do more.’

In 2017, when she and husband David, along with their daughters Tess, 13, and >

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

An abundant wreath made with eucalyptus, fir, berries and old man’s beard showcases Sarah’s love for natural foliage and seasonal greenery

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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What I love about my work...

THE LOOK, FEEL AND SMELL OF FLOWERS AND ❝ FOLIAGE. AND I LOVE SEEING HOW HAPPY PEOPLE FEEL WHEN THEY'RE AT MY WORKSHOPS Georgie, 10, moved to their new Wiltshire home, she found it had just what she needed to give the expanding business a permanent home. ‘At the end of the drive was a dilapidated old barn, which I could see immediately would make the perfect workshop,’ Sarah says. ‘We had a huge renovation underway with the house itself, but I didn’t hesitate to get the barn shipshape as well!’ It took extensive work to bring it up to scratch but in just a month or so, a transformation had been wrought on the characterful little building. Sarah installed a large counter at the back of the space and a huge central work table in the middle, along with shelving cabinets and a beautifully distressed old dresser, found in another

Sarah stocks a selection of lovely items from other makers and suppliers

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

❞

outhouse, to display everything from metallic buckets of flowers to vintage glass terrariums.

‘I also decided to stock little items from other artisan and specialist suppliers that complement the flowers and plants so that there’s always something new for people to see when they come here – not just for the workshops, but to order bouquets and displays, or simply to drop by to pick up a bunch of flowers,’ she explains.

The business has expanded in other ways, too. While the workspace is undoubtedly the heart of it, two years ago Sarah began to supply wreath-making kits by post. ‘Each box contains everything you need, right down to the decorative “toppings”,’ Sarah explains. ‘I can’t believe how much demand there has been for them. Last Christmas I had more than 90 orders: I was up at 4.30am every morning to package them up, and there were boxes piled up in the hall. I was also doing all the festive orders for bouquets and table decorations, as well as the workshops, and I did think I might have bitten off a bit more than I could chew! Luckily, friends and family pitched in to help me, but it’s taught me I need to be really organised and get ahead in future!’

As time has gone by, Sarah’s wreathmaking and floristry workshops have become ever more popular, but she believes there’s more to it than simply an opportunity for the attendees to make something beautiful.

‘I am constantly struck by how much better people seem to feel after a session,’ she says.

‘They often arrive stressed or preoccupied, or saying they’re not creative at all, yet soon they become completely absorbed in what they’re doing and relax. The sessions become quiet and almost meditative as everyone gets to work. It’s fascinating to observe and so rewarding when, a few hours later, they’ve made something they didn’t think they could and are absolutely delighted. I really can’t think of anything I’d rather be doing…’

Pod & Pip, 07766 775869, podandpip.co.uk

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

Wreath makers browse the selection of flowers and foliage on one of Sarah’s workshops

Sarah’s next plan is to create a cuttings garden at her home especially for Pod & Pip

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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ON OUR DOORSTEP… Visit… ‘Mottisfont (nationaltrust.org.uk). I especially like this historic house and gardens in the summer when the rose garden is at its best.’

Shop at…‘Roxtons (roxtons.co.uk) in Stockbridge. I make a beeline for this fabulous clothes and lifestyle store – there’s always something different to see.’

Go for a meal at…. ‘The Beckford Arms (beckfordarms.com ) in Tisbury. This lovely pub is my “go-to treat place”. It has a seasonal menu and a lovely cosy atmosphere.’

While Sarah gets most of her workshop flowers and foliage from trusted suppliers, she often collects seasonal treasures on country walks nearby

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

HOW TO RUN THE PERFECT WORKSHOP

FEATURE SHARON PARSONS PHOTOGRAPHS RICHARD GADSBY

IT TAKES ORGANISATION, knowledge and confidence to host a successful workshop – as well as creative flair.

‘People come for so many reasons,’ points out Sarah Wiliamson-Jones, owner of Pod & Pip, ‘whether it’s to try something new with friends, have a bit of “me” time, or actively learn a skill for a specific occasion. As the host, it means you need to be prepared to meet all these requirements.’ Here, she reveals the secrets to a successful workshop.

MANAGE YOUR STOCK Having reliable suppliers is, of course, essential, but it can take time to get an accurate measure of what will be needed. ‘Some workshops provide materials to an exact degree, right down to the amount of ribbon each person can use on their wreath,’ says Sarah, ‘but I don’t feel that encourages much freedom or creativity – and it seems a bit mean! I always put out as much of everything as I think people will want to choose from. Of course, it makes it harder to be precise about what will be used, but I prefer to be generous – it makes people happy, and I can always use what’s left over.’

MEET DIFFERENT TRENDS AND TASTES Like fashion, floristry changes and evolves all the time, and you need to be aware of what attendees are likely to gravitate towards so you have the right supplies and materials. ‘One year nobody wanted to use holly in their wreaths, but the following Christmas a lot more did,’ recalls Sarah. ‘Similarly, the older generation tend to opt for classic reds and oranges in their arrangements, while the younger demographic go for greens and natural tones. If you know a little about the people who are coming on the course, it’s easier to gauge, but I try to have something for everyone!’

PLAN THE DAY It’s important to have a timetable for the workshop so that it runs to time and attendees know exactly what to expect. ‘We run half-day and full-day courses, and always start with refreshments and a chat about what we’ll be doing,’ says Sarah. ‘If it’s a day-long course, we break for lunch, which is a good chance to bond over all things botanical!’

MAKE IT INFORMATIVE ‘I try to pass on as many tips and tricks as I can,’ says

Sarah. ‘People who are planning to do their own flowers for a special occasion need to know when to order them, how to keep flowers in tip-top condition, and of course, the seasonal considerations.

Often I hold wedding flower workshops and mums and brides come because they want to do their own. My biggest piece of advice is don’t underestimate how long it will all take!’

MARKET THE WORKSHOPS While Sarah doesn’t advertise in the traditional sense, her active Instagram account has played a huge role in promoting Pod & Pip, and this, in turn, drives people to the website where all of the workshops are clearly listed and described. ‘I plan a year-long calendar: some are specifically geared towards the seasons, while others are more perennial. We also encourage people to sign up to our newsletter to keep them informed when new courses are added.’ Despite demand, Sarah has only six to 10 places at each workshop. ‘Otherwise, not only does the session become more difficult to manage, but people don’t get as much one-to-one guidance from me.’

The one lesson I’ve learnt...

IS POSSIBLE, BUT DON’T BE TEMPTED ❝TOANYTHING STAND STILL. KEEP EVOLVING YOUR BUSINESS TO PROVIDE WHAT CUSTOMERS WANT ❞ COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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AY D I FR £2 E BYAV E S S IC T E O PR K C RT R I T E O R B DO U EM O Y OV THE K O 5N N O BO 1

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& INTERIORS

CHRISTMAS SHOW 2019

WE’RE BACK FOR A FOURTH FABULOUS YEAR! DON’T MISS OUR ANNUAL FAIR AT STONOR PARK, NEAR HENLEY-ON-THAMES

Go to ichfevents.co. uk/countryhomes christmas and use code EV196 at checkout

21-24 NOVEMBER, 10AM-4PM

W

e’re thrilled to be returning to Stonor Park for Country Homes & Interiors Christmas. Now in its fourth successful year, it’s an unmissable festive fair featuring our favourite boutique and artisan brands.

BLITZ YOUR GIFT LIST With more than 100 stands to browse, you’ll be able to get all of your Christmas shopping done in one go! There’s something for everyone – gifts and accessories, fashion and beauty, home decor, artisan food and drink.

When you need a break, just head to our country food hall for lunch.

VISIT STONOR HOUSE Combine your shopping with a wander around one of England’s oldest manors.

COME AND MEET US! We’ll be at the Country Homes & Interiors stand, where you can experience our stylish roomset – with thanks to our partners, Charnwood, Morris & Co and Maxwell & Williams.

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DON’T MISS OUT!

Visit Stonor House and enjoy its ‘Christmas

by Candlelight’ decorative theme

P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E

MEET THIS YEAR’S STAND HOLDERS JUST A FEW OF THE 100+ STANDS YOU’LL BE ABLE TO BROWSE AND SHOP AT THE SHOWÉ

OLD FOLDING MAPS Antique maps and illustrations

MISTY CASHMERE Soft, colourful knits

WILLOW & FINN Hand-poured soy candles

JEWELLERY BY SHIRLEY Handmade gemstone jewellery

KUSHBOO SOAPS Handcrafted bath products

ALICE ACREMAN SILKS Luxury fashion and homeware

KITTED IN CASHMERE Finest cashmere and wool knits

TUTTI DECOR Gorgeously glam homeware

TORIL DESIGN Personalised gifts and keepsakes

DIMPLED HEART DESIGNS Ceramics handmade in Scotland

BOUND EARTH Japanese-inspired plant displays

RUBY RED Award-winning organic skincare COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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MEET THIS YEAR’S STAND HOLDERS

NUTMEG AND SAGE New country-inspired homeware

SWOLE PANDA Smart and colourful designer socks

MILLY MAUNDER DESIGNS Contemporary, unique jewellery

MR HOBBS GIN Fruity gins made in Henley

THE ARTY CRAFTY PLACE Handcrafted printing blocks

IMOGEN MAN Prints and pet portraits

NEVE’S BEES Natural beeswax beauty buys

KIKI & BOW Gifts and home accessories

THE BLUE BEER COMPANY Organic craft pilsner

■

Buy your tickets at ichfevents.co.uk/country homeschristmas and use code EV196 at the checkout or call 01425 277988 and quote EV196.

■ Show-only tickets cost £10 in advance (£12 on the door). Combined show and house entrance tickets cost £15 in advance (£17 on the door).

THIS OFFER IS VALID UNTIL FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER 2019

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FREE GIFT when you subscribe at the show You can subscribe to Country Homes & Interiors, Woman & Home, Ideal Home, Homes & Gardens or Golf Monthly. You'll even get one of these free gifts* Love Colour book, Paper Christmas book, Sally Swannell Advent calendar, Carluccio’s Ricciarelli almond cakes

*WHILE STOCKS LAST

EARLY BIRD TICKET OFFER

P R O M O T I O N A L F E AT U R E

FREE FESTIVE STYLING TALKS AT COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS CHRISTMAS SHOW

M

eet design experts, including the Country Homes & Interiors team, and learn the secret of magical Christmas style at the Country Homes & Interiors Christmas Show.

A VERY CONRAN CHRISTMAS

Award-winning designer Sophie Conran talks about growing up in the Conran family and how she prepares for guests at Christmas.

11am, Thursday 21 November THE MAKING OF MELSETTER

BY MORRIS & CO

Discover how the work of William Morris’s youngest daughter, a previously unsung hero of the Arts & Crafts movement, inspired the new collection from Morris & Co. 11am, Friday 22 November

TIMINGS MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT SHORT NOTICE

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WOODBURNERS

From fitting and fuel to how to style them in your home, Cedric Wells of Charnwood Stoves has the answers.

2.30pm, Friday 22 November BEHIND THE SCENES AT STONOR HOUSE

Lady Ailsa Stonor talks us through her festive preparations.

11am, Sunday 24 November ROOMSET TOUR

A Q&A with the editor of Country Homes & Interiors and the talented

Discover what this year’s Country Homes & Interiors roomset will look like!

stylist behind our beautifully decorated Christmas roomset.

2.30pm, Sunday 24 November SEE THE MAGAZINE COME TO LIFE

Visit the Country Homes & Interiors stand and see modern country style brought to life. Take a walk around our elegant dining room and stylish sitting room, where we’ve combined beautiful heritage prints from Morris & Co with contemporary designer tableware from Maxwell & Williams, and positioned a gorgeous Charnwood woodburner as our cosy focal point.

PLUS, A SPECIAL EVENT

This year, the Stonor family has invited our stylists to decorate the historic dining room for Christmas.

Purchase a combined House & Gardens ticket to see the dining room and the rest of Stonor House’s magical transformation to the theme of ‘Christmas by Candlelight’, chosen by Lady Ailsa Stonor.

HOW TO FIND US Stonor Park is located between the M4 (J8/9) and the M40 (J6) on the B480 Henley-on-Thames, Watlington Road. Stonor Park is a 10-minute drive north from Henley, only an hour from London, 40 minutes from Oxford and Heathrow and half an hour from Reading. The nearest railway station is Henley-on-Thames and taxis are available at the station.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Christmas

WRAPPED UP Show family and friends just how much they mean to you, with thoughtful gifts inspired by countryside living

Folk wrapping paper in Black and White, Doe A Deer and Teal Starry Night, £3 a sheet; velvet ribbon, £8 a roll, all Rowen & Wren

PRESENT IDEAS

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Special treasures to feather their nest 1 Jot down wild ideas. Notebook in Charleston Stripe, £12.95, Cambridge Imprint 2 Decorative strokes. Mandeville vase, £40, Hunter & Co 3 An alternative to a festive jumper. Cushion cover, £49, West Elm 4 A print for a lonely wall.

Countryside Dog print, £45 framed, Lucky Lobster Art 5 Inspired by the texture of bark. Chalkney Stripe tea cosy, £25, Laura Fletcher Textiles 6 Hand-thrown pieces – yes, please! Candleholders, £28 each, Pottery West at Toast 7 Share the scent of Christmas. Botanical candles, from £15 for 12 tea lights, The White Company 8 Awake the senses with an enveloping fragrance. Diffuser, £68, Jo Malone 9 Handcrafted with love. Bolga storage basket, £45, Lola & Mawu 10 Perfect for nap time! Raspberry throw, £190, Rouge 11 Abstract nature. Ada lampshade, from £45, Jennie Jackson COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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FOODIES

Scrumptious offerings to satisfy stylish appetites 1 Because life IS a box of chocs. Truffles, £9.95, Seasalt 2 Wake up and smell the coffee! The Barisieur alarm clock, from £350, Joy Resolve 3 For sneaky gins on the allotment! Gin, £39.99, Dobbies 4 For the cocktail connoisseur. Luxury bar tool set, £150, The Conran Shop 5 Create a package of delights. Wine, £28; Gin liqueur, £18; The Perfect Christmas condiment collection, £10; Christmas pudding bar, £3.50; Gingerbread house kit, £16, all National Trust Shop. 6 Cottons for the tabletop. Napkins, £24 for four, Sarah K 7 Sweet sugar spoon. Brass spoon, £8, Yonder 8 Hand-carved essentials.

Mninga breakfast set, £28, Qasa-Qasa 9 Pooch plate! Labrador plate, £19.50, Gabriella Shaw Ceramics 10 Versatile musthave. Combekk Dutch oven, £259, John Lewis & Partners 11 Marbled marvel. Teapot, £40, White Space Home 78

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PRESENT IDEAS

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Accessorise their life (and wardrobe) with colourful chic 1 Snug-bug slumber parties. Vanessa cosy bottoms, £30, Boden 2 Super star! Small book wallet, £28, Cath Kidston 3 Make it personal. Monogram slippers, from £85, Rae Feather 4 Cosy hugs for hands. Triangle mittens in Cream, £24, Miss Pompom 5 Be absolutely fabulous in attention-demanding Fair Isle! Neon frost jumper, £65; Ingleton pattern zip funnel knit, £69.95, both White Stuff 6 A poncho with punch. Spearmint wave poncho, £110, Katie Victoria Textiles 7 Wrap up in countryside patterns. Little cress scarf in Raspberry, £45, Tori Murphy 8 Get personal. Brompton bag, £55, Initially London 9 For outdoorsy divas! Eskdale boots, £180, Ariat 10 Beaded beauty. Star gazer bracelet, £39, N2M at Akojo Market 11 Keep those toes nice and toasty. 100 per cent British wool boot socks, £18, Peregrine COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Blissful gifts to soothe and pamper Christmas spirits 1 Lounge in comfort. Mete Turkish dressing gown, £95, Chalk & Moss 2 Cuddle therapy. Wonderboy natural linen cushion cover, £150, Ardmore Design 3 Get crafty each month. Desk calendar embroidery kit, £35, Make & Mend at Notonthehighstreet.com 4 Bedtime glow… Sensual candle, £32, The Little Yorkshire Candle Company 5 For someone who deserves to unwind. The ‘me time’ pampering gift box, £64.95, Studio Seed 6 Dear diary. Made Out of Stars journal, £10.99, Meera Lee Patel at Yoga Matters 7 Calming scents. Pause diffuser, £29, Eloise Hall 8 Rest tired eyes.

Mill woven silk eye masks, £20 each, By Cecil 9 Pamper night in. The Nini Experience minis gift set, £95, Nini Organics 10 Teatime ritual. Amara cup and saucer, £16, Ella James 11 Positive vibes. Rainbow sweatshirt, £38, The Kindness Co-op 80

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NATURE BUFFS

Green-fingered gifts for friends of the earth 1 Rooted in thoughtfulness. Hamper, £180, Petersham Nurseries 2 Woodland whimsy. Leaf-shaped cushion, £75.50, Donna Wilson 3 A tiny hothouse. Plantini planthouse, £24.95, Another Studio 4 The sweetest sweeper. Shuro brush, £9, Wood & Meadow 5 A horticultural hurrah. Garden Green birds, £12 for set of four; Garden-inspired tree decorations, from £5 each, all John Lewis & Partners 6 A unique choice for gardeners. Traditional Japanese secateurs, £80, Genus 7 Test their knowledge. RHS Gardener’s Quiz & Puzzle Book, £14.99, Octopus Publishing 8 Keep your packed lunch hot. Food flask, £29.95, Graham and Green 9 Embroidery to tweet about. Garden bird napkins, £85 for six, Craft Editions 10 Throw it and grow it! Seedbom, £3.95, Hare & Home 11 Upcycled lovely. Cigar press vase, £85, JamJar Edit COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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FANS OF POST

A gift that keeps on giving, delivered to their door...

1 British goodies. For her, £30 a month, Letterbox Gifts 2 Caffeine buzz! Blends, from £7.95 a month, Small Batch Coffee Roasters 3 The world of spirits. Dram club, from £24.95 a month, Master of Malt 4 You can never have enough… Socks, £40 for six months, The London Sock Exchange 5 Style your home. Seasonal box, £85 a quarter, From The Post House. 6 Live the life… Love the style! Gift CH&I, £29.99 a year, see page 114 for details 7 For fromage friends! Cheese club, from £120 for three months, Paxton & Whitfield 8 Handmade and heavenly. Vegan chocs, £24.95 a month, The Chocolatier 9 Perfectly packaged. Mini tree, £33, Bloom & Wild. Order a flowers subscription, too 10 For lit lovers. Classic of the month club, from £39 for three months, Bookishly 11 Delight gardeners. Seeds and stationery, £34.99 for three months, Seedlings Cards & Gifts 82

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FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHS ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

7

To me, there’s just nothing like it.

The crackling of the fire, the light dancing around the room and the chance to really unwind before bed.

My Morsø doesn’t just finish my day – it sets me up for the next.

morso.co.uk

@MORSOUK /MORSOUK CD9609

ME AND MY MORS¯

uniquely yours...

for our latest brochure

nevillejohnson.co.uk | 0161 873 8333 STUDIES

BEDROOMS

LOUNGES

LIBRARIES

DESIGNER PROFILE

Meet Tori Murphy

WOVEN TEXTILE DESIGNER Cushions, from £70

After designing prints for high-end fashion houses in Milan, Tori’s passion for British textile production led her to set up her own brand in 2012. She now works with talented craftspeople across the UK to create her striking range of woven textiles What’s your background in design? After graduating from The Royal College of Art, I worked in Milan designing prints for clients including DKNY, Fendi and Christian Dior. It was here I experienced the factory floor for the first time, and developed a sound understanding of textile production.

FEATURE TARA KING

How did your business come about? My passion for honest textile manufacturing inspired me to set up on my own. Through perseverance, I found British weavers, finishers and machinists willing to support me.

We launched a capsule collection of throws and cushions in June 2012 and took our first order from a store on London’s New King’s Road. Eight years later, we have a small factory in Nottingham, our product range has grown and we sell worldwide.

What does a typical day look like for you? I have two small children and another on the way, so it always starts with an early breakfast. I split my time between home, the factory and meetings with suppliers. Family life means I have to be flexible, so I’ve learnt to work whenever I can.

Everyone’s home by 6pm, when we spend a raucous couple of hours unwinding from the day, followed by dinner and bed by 10.30pm. Not very rock and roll, but it’s a good life!

Talk us through the design process.

I start by hand-drawing the collection

Oven gloves, £39

then tweak the designs digitally.

These are sent to Lancashire, where they’re woven on a Jacquard loom using bespoke dyed yarns. Then they’re washed and finished in Yorkshire before finally returning to the factory in Nottingham.

What are the joys and challenges of being an independent maker?

They go hand in hand. Every new opportunity is lined with challenges, so I’ve learnt to push through the tough times so I can reap the rewards.

What inspires you? A deep desire to create products that have integrity and longevity for my family and friends, as well as others, to enjoy.

What materials do you use? Natural materials such as cotton, leather and merino wool. There is so much personality in their imperfections.

What’s new for Christmas? Stars of the show include stockings and Santa sacks. We’re also offering personalisation on lots of products.

Sum up your style in three words.

Relaxed, natural and eclectic.

Tori Murphy, torimurphy.com

3 more woven textile designers to watch...

BEATRICE LARKIN takes an organic approach to modern, monochrome design. beatricelarkin.com KATHERINE FRASER runs weaving workshops from her store in Bath. katherinefraser.co.uk MARIA SIGMA specialises in zero-waste handwoven textiles inspired by the British landscape. mariasigma.com COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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Christmas

spice

Warming shades of clove, cinnamon and nutmeg, with hints and glints of precious metal, bring rich sophistication to your home’s festive decor

GIFTS OF GOLD Mix and match dinnerware to add polish to plain pieces and contemporary flair to traditional lines.

With rich colours like these, you can afford to keep the setting simple.

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SEASONAL DECOR

Make a natural bauble from an oven-dried lime, bay leaves and a velvet ribbon

SEASONAL DECOR

MIDWINTER MOMENT An archive-inspired wallpaper coloured in cinnamon shades becomes a glamorous backdrop to serve spiced teas and toddies. Bright dried flowers and foliage add festive flair.

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ALL A-GLOW Jewel and spice tones glow deeply, bringing a rich yet cosy look to the living room.

Dress a front door with fragrant herbs, pretty baubles and decorative dried flowers

SEASONAL DECOR

BEAUTY BRIGHT For a bed fit for a king, upholster a curvaceous headboard and layer silky velvets, fine linens and fashionable tassled cushions for a cultured country look.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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SEASONAL DECOR

PAGE 86-87

PAGES 88-89

GIFTS OF GOLD

pomegranate candlesticks, £38 each, Yonder. Jahi brass candlestick, £17,95; Nami brass vases, £24.95 each, both Nkuku. Cushion in Petropolis velvet in Sienna, £165m, GP&J Baker. (On tree) Golden kali star (as tree topper); golden shooting star decorations, all from a selection at Bungalow. Vintage glass baubles, from £3 each; coloured baubles, from a selection at Etsy.

Glass baubles; leaf decorations, both from £4 each, Raj Tent Club

MIDWINTER MOMENT

Auburn, £2,066, Parker Knoll. Gumdrop footstool in Old Orange deep velvet, £555, Loaf. Blue Pandora pouffe, £180; patchwork cushion, £28, both French Connection Home. Cotton Shimla cushion, from a selection at Bungalow.

Antoinetta Mustard throw, £15, Ikea.

Flat bowl in Ankita Golden; giftwrap, all from a selection at Bungalow. Pegu rattan tray, £78; glasses, as before, both Kalinko. Napkin; bowl, both as before.

Votives, as before. Three wise men candleholders, from a selection at Bungalow. Teal dinner candles, £15 for 20, Shearer Candles. Zephyr hurricane with candle, £195, Oka. Star garland, from a selection at Bungalow.

Dried flowers, as before. Dried oranges, from £3 each, Atlas Flowers. Green stocking, £39.95, Nordic House. Burnt Orange ribbon, from £8.50, Pompom Blossom. Rattan Christmas tree basket, £39, Notonthehighstreet.com, is a match. Tree decorations, as before

Salvaged timber dining table, from £1,350, Home Barn, is a match. Similar dining chairs, £199 for six, Vinterior.

Oddrun throw (used as table runner), £10, Ikea. Saara napkins in Pecan and Ochre, from a selection at Bungalow.

Latha rattan place mats in Dark Blue, £64 for four; Inya rattan bowl in Orange, £48; Zomi highball glass in Amber, £48 for four, all Kalinko. Green luxe wine glasses, £7 each, French Connection Home. Cinnamon dinnerware in Brown, £80 for a 12-piece set, Habitat. Brass

Wall in Apple in Rust Gold, £59 a roll, Morris & Co at Style Library. Dates Palm vintage botanical wall chart, £19.99, Bygone Press at Etsy. Small hanging lantern, £3, TK Maxx. Hemnes desk in Black, £129, Ikea. Side plates, as before.

Iron bowl, £27 for set of four; wine glasses, as before, both French Connection Home. Gold votives, £12.50 for two; Moroccan raffia teapot, £75 (with two glasses and a tray), both Raj Tent Club. St Germain candle, £60, Ralph Lauren Home. Inle round rattan tray in Orange, £52, Kalinko. Oren stoneware jug, £25, Habitat. Mini bowl, from a selection at Bungalow. Dried flowers, from a selection at Atlas Flowers

ALL A-GLOW

Wall in Crowberry matt emulsion, £48 for 2.5L, Papers and Paints. Large Indigo mist rug, £220, French Connection Home. Wycombe grand sofa in Bracklyn

BEAUTY BRIGHT

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Wall, as before. Isabella six-foot headboard, £1,200, KD Loves. Linen bedlinen in French Blue, from £20 for a pillowcase, Secret Linen Store. Washed linen pillowcases in Rust, £12.99 each, H&M Home. Velvet cushion in Green, £40, Raj Tent Club. Navy tassel cushion, £48, Design Vintage. Cotton Anjali cushion, from a selection at Bungalow.

Oddrun throw, £10, Ikea. Tray, £30; bowl, as before, both French Connection Home. Crushed velvet ribbon in Marine, £2.75m; Orange silk tassel, from a selection, both VV Rouleaux. Lantern, £12, Raj Tent Club.

Cinnamon mug in Brown, £6, Habitat.

Green vase, £38, French Connection Home. Dried flowers, as before

FEATURE AND ART DIRECTION SARA BIRD STYLING SELINA LAKE STYLE ASSISTANTS SARAH PRALL, SARAH POUROS PHOTOGRAPHS MAXWELL ATTENBOROUGH

ALL THE DETAILS, PRODUCTS & PRICES

EST. 1920

¨

NEW RANGE OF FURNITURE, LIGHTING & ACCESSORIES now available at

V ERY.C O.U K

BE INSPIRED.

LOCAL HERO

❝Our local festive lunch

❝

means no one has to spend Christmas alone

FEATURE SOPHIE GALE PHOTOGRAPH ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Christmas Day is a community affair for Tessa Hince, as she and a group of volunteers cook up a heartfelt traditional lunch Ð and everyone is welcome I have always loved Christmas, but I realise for some people it can be a lonely time. It was late in 2016 that my good friend Hayley Ash and I were chatting about how much we enjoy the festive period, with family, good food and presents all round. Then the sad thought struck that even among our community in Shipston-on-Stour, Stratford-on-Avon, some people are isolated at Christmas. That’s when we came up with the idea of throwing a festive lunch at our local Townsend Hall, open to anyone in need of company and good cheer.

When I told my boss about the project, he asked how much we needed to get the idea off the ground. I said £500, and he replied: “Let’s call it £1,000.”

That’s typical of the community spirit in Shipston. I grew up here and work at a local bank. Hayley and I bonded over a shared passion for helping others. I have volunteered for The Samaritans; Hayley is a youth worker. Maybe it helps that we don’t have children – and have very tolerant partners! Three other friends, Kate King, Russell Critchlow and Alex Clarke, have also devoted boundless energy to the project.

Shipston Community Christmas has been a tremendous success – we hosted 60 guests at our first lunch. We are now in our fourth year and this Christmas we will have 100 for lunch.

It is an experience like no other. We get letters telling us how it has brought joy into people’s lives.

Even though many of us are strangers, a

Christmas magic pervades, and smiling faces are everywhere. Doors open at 11am, when anyone can join for a drink and a mince pie. The town band and carol singers perform.

Around midday, guests and volunteers sit down to a traditional roast. After the meal, Father Christmas arrives, bringing gifts for all.

Our aim is to create a home-from-home feel.

Volunteers transform the hall in the days leading up to the event.

We even mock up a traditional fireplace, complete with stockings. It adds to the atmosphere, though it’s only made of cardboard! I am always bowled over by the generosity of residents who donate so much, from raffle prizes to Christmas trees.

We welcome anyone who feels they are facing Christmas alone. There is no typical participant. Loneliness affects not only the elderly, it touches younger people, too – parents whose children are with a partner, for example. Often, our volunteers are avoiding isolation themselves. I remember one such lady who was facing her first Christmas alone after her partner died. Family invited her, but she Adding all the little festive details brings a home-fromhome feel to the event

Tessa (left) and Hayley, with the Mayor at the lunch in 2017

The hall is transformed into a winter wonderland

didn’t feel up to it. Volunteering kept her mind occupied, as well as providing a good reason to say no to family without sounding unkind.

Hayley and I received a surprise invitation to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding, in recognition of the Christmas lunches. We had press interest from around the world – it was bonkers!

Probably the most fun was having a makeover in readiness on the Lorraine Kelly show. The day was very special, even if we were a little saddened at interest in what we would wear, rather than the charity itself. There’s so much I want to tell people about the work – and about a new venture of mine: a telephone befriending service. It’s called Caring Kind and the pilot scheme is under way.

When the washing up is done and everyone has left, I return home and celebrate with my own family. It feels good to sink into the sofa, but I still feel the buzz from the day’s excitement. Nothing beats it.

For more information or help starting your own event, visit shipstoncommunity christmas.co.uk or email shipston communitychristmas@hotmail.com COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

A decorated hall will make arriving guests feel special

FI NI SHI NG F LO U R I S H E S Rosehip and magnolia wreath, £79, Berries & Baubles. Doormat, £18, Oliver Bonas. Brass hare door knocker, £90, Cox & Cox

HELLO, HALLWAY

Create a warm

WELCOME Full house this Christmas?

Arrange your space and greet guests with thoughtful touches that will make them feel at home 96

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

First impressions count, so prepare a relaxing space guests will notice. Clear your hall of clutter and decorate with lanterns, fairy lights and candles. When it comes to wreaths and garlands, use fragrant natural greenery.

Store extra scarves, hats and gloves, and even spare wellies in a basket or hall tidy, so everyone can get kitted out for a wintry walk.

Pre-lit entrance tree, H132cm, £125; frosted pine cone wreath, Dia40cm, £35; fireside lantern, H44xW14cm, £45, all The White Company

Candles, throws and natural scents will bring a cosy, ‘hygge’ feel to a room

OUR EXPERT SAYS…

TIE BUNDLES OF ❝ CINNAMON STICKS AND POP THEM IN A BOWL WITH PINE CONES AND A SPRINKLING OF CLOVES FOR A FESTIVE POT POURRI

❞

TARA KING, STYLE CONTENT EDITOR

C E N T R E STAGE Choose the festive focus of your living room – the tree, fireplace or dining table, for example – then plan around it. Encourage easy conversation by arranging seating into a sociable circle and leave out plenty of throws and blankets for friends and family to snuggle up under.

MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

Take a break from hosting duties with a help-yourself drinks or breakfast station

Supersoft faux-fur beanbag, £375, Cox & Cox

F L E XI B LE F U R N ISH IN G S For group gatherings, multitasking furniture is your best friend. There are plenty of options that combine practicality with aesthetic appeal – think benches that double up as side tables, or footstools with storage. For the living room, try a nest of tables that can be brought out for drinks and nibbles, then tucked away after. Don’t forget seating – comfortable and easy to move around, faux-fur beanbags are perfect for casual lounging, and appeal to little ones, too.

AFT ER N OON F UN Six-in-one games compendium, £20, Amara. Scandi Forest teapot, £34; mugs, £12 each, both West Elm

SELF SERVICE From an evening tipple to an early breakfast, let guests help themselves.

Keep cutlery, plates and glasses out, stored in baskets. Add chalkboard messages, such as ‘find bread and eggs in the pantry’. Leave out a tray with a teapot, mugs and all the essentials for guests to take to their room if they like.

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CH&I

MODERN Country CLASSIC

BESPOKE OFFERINGS Nothing says ‘happy to have you here’ like a personalised stocking, goody bag or sweet treat. Fill a rustic wire basket with pampering luxuries, such as face masks, bubble bath and snuggly socks and leave a little box of freshly baked biscuits beside the bed.

Transform everyday bathing into a spa-style experience with indulgent bath products, plus fluffy towels and a robe hanging on the back of the door. Store a box of often-forgotten toiletries in the bathroom, such as face wipes, deodorant and spare toothbrushes to save guests having to think about buying replacements – a laundry bag is always handy, too.

3 O F TH E B EST SPACE -SAV I N G S LEE PER S

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1 . Alison bed in a box in Dusted Dahlia, from £564, Living It Up 2 . Foxcote sofabed in Denim, from £1,400, Willow & Hall 3 . Two-pack daybed, £995, Loaf 100

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FEATURE TARA KING PHOTOGRAPHS DAVID BRITTAIN, MARK SCOTT, TIM YOUNG, DAN DUCHARS/TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

B O UTI QUE STYL E

MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

P E RS ON A L SPAC E While a busy atmosphere is part of the fun over Christmas, a carefully thought out bedroom offers guests an opportunity to get away from it all. Make up the bed with super-soft linen and encourage downtime with soft lighting and a selection of books – remember practicalities, such as an alarm clock and phone chargers. Extra hangers and empty drawers are always useful, but if you’re short on clothes storage, try a portable rail or door hook.

OUR EXPERT SAYS…

LEAVE OUT SCISSORS ❝ AND STICKY TAPE TO HELP GUESTS WITH ANY LAST-MINUTE WRAPPING TARA KING, STYLE CONTENT EDITOR

❞

Markham flannel bed linen, from £10 for a standard pillowcase; Burlington mixed cable throw, £130; Burlington mixed cable medium square cushion cover, £45; Southwold table lamp, £175; curly sheepskin bench, £695, all The White Company

Playtime made portable.

Shop our Kids collection now at swooneditions.com Pay in instalments with

Hunter trolley & stool

ÂŁ229

KITCHEN IDEAS

Metod/Voxtorp units, around £2,143, Ikea.

Encaustic Estremoz tiles, £224.70sq m, Fired Earth, would work here

POWERFUL PATTERNS

Colourful &

CHEERFUL KITCHENS

In an open-plan layout, graphic tiles help define even the smallest cooking area. ‘This kitchen is very small, but the colourful tiling makes it feel much more expansive,’ says US interior designer Leanne Ford.

‘Mixing modern with vintage helps create a look that has no time or place, and which will feel fresh for years to come.’ Rather than colourmatching the island to the tiles, Leanne went for green. ‘It plays off the blue of the tiles, but is more relaxed than precise co-ordination.’

SWAP CREAM AND WHITE FOR COLOURFUL BRIGHTS OR SOFT, SUBTLE SHADES TO TURN YOUR KITCHEN INTO EVERYONE’S HAPPY PLACE… COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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LILAC TIME Large spaces can be difficult to conquer colour-wise. Too much can overload the senses; too little may prove bland. Try using an arresting shade on cabinets or a focal-point island, then linking in similar, softer tones throughout the rest of the space. ‘We’re seeing a move towards lilac in the kitchen,’ says Steve Tough, commercial sales director at Masterclass Kitchens.

‘Our new Wisteria shade is one step on from blush pink, and treads a careful balancing act between subtle and statement.’

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

KITCHEN IDEAS

Hardwick Shaker kitchen in Wisteria and Light Grey, from £12,000, Masterclass Kitchens

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Limehouse kitchen, from £8,000, Neptune at Armstrong Keyworth.

New Orleans cement tiles, from £252sq m, Otto Tiles

CUSTOM COLOUR The zing of brightness from the fridge freezer may be the wow factor here, but there’s another clever colour trick happening, too.

‘Custom-coloured finishes are now offered on appliances, taps and even floor tiles,’ says Dean Keyworth of Armstrong Keyworth.

‘These poured concrete tiles were custommatched to tie in with the kitchen units, range cooker and fridge freezer. Non-standard colours can cost more, but it’s worth it to achieve a beautifully balanced scheme.’

SPLASH ZONE

London Chevron 3D cement wall tiles in Blush, £322sq m, Domus

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

‘Adding colour at splashback level can set the tone for the entire space,’ says Jules Archard, head of showrooms at Domus.

‘When choosing a shade, it’s vital to consider the overall palette of materials, textures and finishes being used elsewhere. Here, the colours from the marble worktop, wooden cabinetry and navy cupboards work alongside the pink tiles to add warmth.’

Cement tiles, like these, have a chalky feel that’s full of character, but they do need to be sealed before grouting to protect from stains.

KITCHEN IDEAS

BRIGHT BURST Bold colour statements aren’t for everyone, but if you want to dip your toe in the water, Melissa Klink, head of design at Harvey Jones, has the answer.

‘The trend for colourblocking in small, clearly defined areas is perfect for anyone lacking colour confidence. A single burst of bright colour, on a kitchen island or pantry unit, is all it takes to pep up a plain design. By restricting the rest of the cabinetry to muted tones, the statement colour will feel even more impactful.’

Shaker kitchen, from £20,000, Harvey Jones.

Pantry in Charlotte’s Locks modern eggshell, £69 for 2.5L, Farrow & Ball

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UNDER THE HOOD Colour co-ordinating your cooker hood to your kitchen cabinetry can highlight an impressively tall ceiling, or make a low ceiling feel higher.

‘A painted cooker hood often feels more appropriate than slick stainless steel in a country setting,’ says Alex Main of The Main Company. ‘Moreover, a co-ordinated hood will crown your island unit, ensuring it makes a really strong impact in the kitchen. Choose a colour that evokes the mood you want to experience in your kitchen.’

Bespoke kitchen in Little Greene’s Adventurer 7 intelligent eggshell, from £25,000, The Main Company

KITCHEN IDEAS

Classic English Kitchen, from £25,000, deVol

PICK A PALETTE Mixing and matching bright colours isn’t for the faint-hearted, but, done well, it can produce incredible results. Start by identifying an intense, fully saturated shade that you already know you can live with – perhaps it’s in your wardrobe or on a favourite cushion. Then, mix in other bold colours from the same corner of the colour wheel, such as the green and yellow in this kitchen by deVol. Next, pick a tone from the opposite side of the colour wheel, in this case hot pink, to dial up the drama.

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KITCHEN IDEAS

Similar bespoke kitchen cabinetry, around £25,000, Casey & Fox

HALF MEASURES Painting wall units and base cabinets in different colours is a compelling choice. Making it a game of two halves also helps break away from a fullyfitted look, giving your kitchen a relaxed style that’s right at home in a rural cottage. Paint the walls the same shade as your wall cabinets to reduce their presence further. ‘For a brighter atmosphere, go for a lighter shade above the worktops. But if you have a sense of moodiness or drama in mind, darker units on top will be more impactful,’ says interior designer Siobhan Casey of Casey & Fox. 110

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

The talk of the tiki bar.

Shop now at swooneditions.com Pay in instalments with

Raphia sideboard

ÂŁ599

Kitchen, from £8,000, British Standard

FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHS REID ROLLS, DARREN CHUNG, SEAN KNOTT, PAUL CRAIG

WALK THE LINE Inspired by a technique introduced in the Victorian era to protect the lower part of the wall from daily wear and tear, the twotone tide line is making a comeback. Using simple tongue-and-groove panelling, the tide line in this kitchen mimics a splashback and, finished in durable wipe-clean paint, is just as practical. ‘Extending the colour of the base cabinets above the worktop creates an unexpected and quirky look,’ says Merlin Wright, design director at British Standard.

Lady Bug ultra-matt emulsion, £43 for 2.5L, Earthborn

WALL TO WALL Painting the walls is the simplest way to update your kitchen, especially if you choose a bold shade that really shouts ‘transformation’. ‘Getting the colour right in the kitchen is arguably one of the most important decorating jobs. Choosing a rich tone can add depth and a contemporary edge to your space,’ says Cathryn Helsby, marketing manager at Earthborn. ‘Dramatic colours, such as our Lady Bug, are particularly effective in smaller rooms, especially when paired with neutral cabinetry.’

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Choose the bestÉ

Made from beautiful pine for a timeless, rustic look, this chunky favourite provides space for much more than dining – use it instead of an island for kitchen prep, or as a spacious craft table.

Brookville table and bench set, H75xL220xW90cm, £1,200, Garden Trading

DINING TABLE INVITE THE FLOCK TO GATHER AROUND AND DRINK, FEAST, PLAY GAMES AND BE MERRY ALL FESTIVE SEASON LONG!

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FURNITURE BUYER’S GUIDE

COASTAL CALM Lovingly named after the 18-mile pebble beach off the Dorset coast, the Chesil’s minimal, pared-back design gracefully combines steel and oak, finished off with tactile, rounded edges.

Chesil dining table, H75xL160xW80cm, from £2,150, Oggetto

RUSTIC REFLECTION Can’t decide between sleek or rustic?

Enjoy the best of both styles with this strikingly unique looker. Displaying an aged top brimming with grainy appeal, and strong, shiny steel legs for support, it’s a truly wonderful addition for homes with heaps of country character.

Reflex refectory table, H77xL241x W100cm, £659, Sweetpea & Willow

ROUND TABLES WORK ❝ WELL IN RESTRICTED

SPACES, AS THEY UTILISE A SMALLER FOOTPRINT WHILE STILL CREATING A SOCIABLE AND INTIMATE ENVIRONMENT

❞

MINIATURE METALLIC This petite pedestal pretty features a natural weathered finish, meaning that each piece is gloriously unique. Ideal for compact spaces, the single leg design is bang on trend for farmhouse fashionistas.

Desert brass round dining table, H75xDia91cm, £740, Rose & Grey

INDUSTRIAL CHIC Wine and dine in sophisticated style at this smart combination of top-notch solid oak and steel X-legs. A wonderful addition for classy kitchens or dining areas, you can choose between powder-coated or raw finish legs.

There’s even the option of a coloured top.

Xavier oak dining table, H75xL180xW90cm, from £1,790, Rust Collections COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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FURNITURE BUYER’S GUIDE

DIVINE DINE With origins in 16th-century England, this heritage design has been given a Gustavian twist, with minimal turned legs and a delectable smoky painted finish. Dual drop

ends supported by pivoting legs can be collapsed or kept upright to suit all occasions and dining spaces.

Tieva gateleg table with drawers in Charcoal, H77xL164xW110cm, £2,275, Oka

CHOOSE A DESIGN THAT ❝ COMBINES CONTRASTING

TEXTURES, SUCH AS WOOD AND STONE, TO ADD INTEREST AND TONE TO YOUR DINING ROOM SET-UP

❞

A-GAME FRAME Give your space a modern-country look with a rich and dramatic dimension. Featuring crisp edges, a tactile but sleek finish and a gorgeously charred natural colour, this extendable design feels equally at home in a pastoral farmhouse as it does in a contemporary barn conversion.

Arundel six-seater dining table in Darkened Oak, H73xL245xW100cm, £1,695, Neptune

NATURAL PROPERTIES The solid oak top paired with refectory-style legs on this sturdy home hero pays homage to the Arts and Crafts movement. Part of Heal’s Designed by You range, it can be made to your exact specifications, ensuring the perfect fit for your space.

Lisbon dining table in oiled walnut, H76xL160xW90cm, from £2,849, Heal’s

Social circles go round and round… Avoiding any chance of bumping into sharp edges, this classic beauty takes inspiration from 18th- and 19th-century crafts, resulting in a timelessly elegant piece that will comfortably seat four to six of your nearest and dearest.

Ellery round dining table, H75.5xDia120cm, £780, Rowen & Wren 118

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

COSY CORNER

From the makers oF Britain’s Bestselling homes magazine

visit us today!

● Style IdeaS & decoratIng tIpS ● gorgeouS real HomeS ● practIcal project advIce

ROOM ELEMENTS

Cosy & stylish

LIGHTING

GOOD LIGHTING IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GLOW AND GLOOM AS WINTER SETS IN. SWITCH ON TO ILLUMINATING IDEAS FOR EVERY ROOM TruGlow LED pillar candles, from £7.99 each, Lights4Fun

WARM WELCOME From sparkly fairy lights to softly-lit stars, you can never have too much twinkle at Christmas. Recreate the beauty of flickering candlelight without the risk of leaving flames unattended by choosing these battery operated alternatives. ‘These realistic designs have been crafted from real wax for an authentic finish and can be set to come on at the same time every day – a lovely welcome home on a cold night’, says Jo Naughton of Lights4Fun. Choose from red and bronze or ivory and grey for year-round displays.

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Fin pendant grouping, £1,189, Original BTC

Cooper picture light, £469, Davey Lighting

OUR EXPERT SAYS…

IF YOU BUY ❝ LIGHT FITTINGS OFF-THE-SHELF, HIRE A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN TO ENSURE A SAFE INSTALLATION

❞

TARA KING, CONTENT STYLE EDITOR

PICTURE PERFECT There’s nothing better than a well-lit piece of artwork to enhance your walls. Traditional picture lights are a great choice for country homes, with new models incorporating the latest technology. ‘Our Cooper light features state-of-the-art LED diffusers to achieve absolute colour accuracy’, says Charlie Bowles of Davey Lighting.

STAND TALL Perfectly placed floor lamps work beautifully with overhead lighting, creating ambient pools of light. Placed in the corners of a room, they radiate light inwards, making larger, open-plan spaces feel warm and cosy.

For enduring appeal, choose a timeless base such as Nkuku’s handcrafted brass Kara lamp.

Kara large standing lamp base, £295, Nkuku

PLAY WITH SCALE Grouping pendants of different sizes or shapes gives a sculptural aesthetic, and varying heights and distances makes a unique statement. ‘The pendants on our Fin light come in four sizes and can be hung as a tight cluster, or at different lengths to create a space-filling cascade of light,’ says Charlie Bowles of Original BTC. COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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UP AND DOWN Rise-and fall-pendants have an adjustable counterweight and pulley mechanism that allows variation in height and lighting effects. Pull them up for a broad, shadow-free spread of light when cooking, then lower them down to create an intimate atmosphere for mealtimes.

OUR EXPERT SAYS…

SEEK OUT ❝ STRONG PROFILES AND INTERESTING SHAPES FOR A FITTING THAT LOOKS AS GOOD SWITCHED OFF AS IT DOES WHEN IT’S ILLUMINATING YOUR ROOM

❞

TARA KING, CONTENT STYLE EDITOR

Rise-and-fall school light in polished copper, £525, Davey Lighting

3 O F TH E B E ST TABLE LAMPS

FEATURE TARA KING

Add character to country tabletops with these stylish yet functional designs

122

1 . An elegant, sculptural swirl in rustic wood. Carved lamp, £85.50, The Farthing 2 . This adjustable shade brings focused light. Peterhouse lamp, £155, Jim Lawrence 3 . A natural shade complements an artisan-inspired base. Textured abstract lamp, £75, Cox & Cox COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Starsky chandelier, £430, Pooky

ROOM ELEMENTS

Need to know...

LIGHTING RIGHT ■ FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH LIGHTING TYPES.

Background or general lighting is the main light source. Task lighting is directional and used for reading, working or cooking. Accent lighting adds visual interest and highlights.

■ CONSIDER YOUR DAILY ACTIVITIES Your

requirements may include task lighting, so ensure there are sockets for lamps near sofas, focused light on tables and good lighting for getting dressed in bedrooms and bathrooms.

■ READ UP ON THE LATEST LIGHTING TECH

LEDS and halogen have taken the place of traditional tungsten bulbs. Domestic lighting comes under the term ‘warm white’, but this term can encompass anything from warm orange tones to cool blues (2,300k – 3,700k).

Choose a consistent light temperature of around 2,700k for a coherent lighting scheme.

■ VINTAGE FITTINGS ARE POPULAR IN COUNTRY HOMES but always check they have been

rewired and carry a PAT test label. Find a good range of restored and safe industrial lighting sourced from factories, Victorian theatres and old schools at Skinflint Design.

GLASS ACT For drama in a dining room, nothing beats a beautiful chandelier suspended above the table. Crafted with recycled glass ribbons hung from an antique brass frame, this chandelier is sure to steal the show. Elaborate designs can produce an enormous amount of light, so consider installing a dimmer switch to control the intensity.

Pimlico wall light in antique brass, £300, David Hunt Lighting

OFF THE WALL Being tucked up in bed with a good book is oh-so appealing in winter, and wall-mounted bedside lamps are a great option in a tight space. ‘Our Neoclassical-inspired Pimlico light is made of solid brass and has an adjustable arm that can be positioned easily for reading,’ says Hollie Moreland of David Hunt Lighting.

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& INTERIORS

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If you'd like your home to be considered for a feature in Country Homes & Interiors, send some photos and tell us all about it at countryhomes@ti-media.com

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HOME TECH

Buy the best...

DISHWASHER FOR SPEEDY CLEAR-UPS

STYLISH, DEPENDABLE AND PACKED WITH CLEVER FEATURES, THE LATEST DISHWASHERS WILL MAKE LIGHT WORK OF YOUR DINNERWARE BEST FOR EASY ACCESS AEG ComfortLift FFE63806PW standard dishwasher in White (H85xW59.6xD61cm), £880, AO.com As the name suggests, this AEG model allows you to lift the lower basket up and outwards, almost level with the upper basket, making it easier to load and unload. Near the end of a cycle, the door automatically opens by 10cm to release moisture, letting the contents air dry.

A+++ rated, it can hold up to 13 place settings, while a discreet LED shines a light onto the floor to let you know when you can (and can’t) interrupt a cycle.

BEST FOR VOICE COMMAND

FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI

DW60M9550BB A+++ fully integrated dishwasher (H81.7x W59.8xD55.5cm), £839, Samsung

n BUILT-IN OR FREESTANDING Functionality remains the same, whether the machine is integrated or not, but expect to pay more for a built-in design (it’s worth bearing in mind that you won’t be able to take it with you if you move house). n AUTO DOSING Many of the top brands have introduced this convenient extra to their latest ranges, which means you don’t need to add detergent to every wash. It makes a smart model even more practical, as you can easily programme it remotely via your smartphone and it pretty much takes care of everything automatically. n WI-FI CONNECTIVITY The addition of smart functionality not only lets you start a cycle remotely, but allows you to programme the machine to run at night when everyone’s asleep, plus it sends alerts when low on salt, rinse aid and detergent. n INTERIOR DESIGN Innovative design updates have transformed the interior to create a flexible cavity that creates more space to fit larger and/or taller items inside, as well as cradling smaller things that would usually fall between the gaps.

Beko DEN59420DX 60cm connected dishwasher with AutoDose (H85x W59.8xD60cm), £349, Currys With an A++ energy rating, you can control this 14 place setting Beko model either via smartphone (via an app), or by pairing it with an Alexa device to start a cycle via voice command. Built-in sensors assess the level of cleaning your load requires and the AutoDosing function releases the optimum amount of detergent to do the job. What’s more, you can set it up to reorder more detergent automatically when you’re running low. Also comes as an integrated machine for £420.

BEST FOR HANDS-FREE CONTROL G 7960 SCVi fully-integrated dishwasher (H80.5xW59.8x D57cm), £2,499, Miele The combination of Miele’s AutoDos detergent dispensing system and AutoStart function allows this self-sufficient machine to automatically run a pre-programmed cycle. With an energy rating of A+++, it can easily fit 14 place settings, and the shelves can be adjusted to fit larger and smaller items.

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MADE IN

BRITAIN

K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

The simple Shaker design works perfectly in this 17th-century former school

PROJECT PROFILE Owners Joanna CampbellMeiklejohn, owner of holiday lettings company Cotswold Fox Properties, lives here with her husband and two daughters

TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL

A STUDIOUS APPROACH TO PLANNING, COLOURS AND FINISHES EARNS TOP MARKS IN THIS SOCIABLE KITCHEN IN A FORMER SCHOOLHOUSE

House A 17th-century former schoolhouse made from Cotswold stone, in Gloucestershire.

Project A new, more sociable kitchen was created in the former living room, and a side extension added.

Kitchen size 7.2x5.2m Designer Dot Scott-Murray, Senior Designer at The Shaker Kitchen Company

Cabinetry The Shaker Kitchen Company.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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The herringbone has a white oak finish for a lighter look. ‘It is aging beautifully and looks even better as it settles into the house,’ says Joanna

The large island is a practical and attractive focal point, and a sociable spot to gather around

C

reating a new kitchen in a room without gas, water or drainage was never going to be easy, but when Joanna CampbellMeiklejohn moved into this converted former schoolhouse with her family in January 2017, she realised it was what she had to do. ‘I saw the potential of the living room – with its soaring ceilings and beautiful sandy Cotswold stone walls – to become an amazing and sociable kitchen-diner,’ she says.

Joanna embraced the challenge, even adding a rear extension to make room for a downstairs bedroom, boot room and cloakroom in the process. ‘The hardest part was digging up the old floor, a lovely rustic oak, to bring in the new services,’ she says. ‘We tried to retain it but unfortunately the wood was stuck down fast to the concrete. We were so sad it didn’t survive but we do love the herringbone parquet we’ve put in its place.’

Another sad story with a happy ending occurred when Joanna received news that the company she’d chosen to supply her kitchen had gone bankrupt, just a month before delivery. Forced to find a new supplier, and fast, Joanna recalled driving past The Shaker 128

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Kitchen Company’s Cirencester showroom and decided to go back for a proper look. Offering madeto-order kitchens but from a set range of cabinet sizes, The Shaker Kitchen Company was perfectly poised to turn around her order quickly and efficiently. More importantly, senior designer Dot Scott-Murray was able to help the family achieve the exact kitchen Joanna had in mind. ‘We had our hearts set on a navy and grey colour scheme in a Shaker style,’ says Joanna.

When planning the layout, Joanna’s focus had always been on creating a great space for entertaining as she loves to cook and have friends and family around.

‘A large island with a marble-look top was key as it’s social and pretty but practical, too,’ she says.

Once all the renovations were complete, Joanna decided to add the house to her company’s growing Airbnb portfolio. ‘We’ve got so many beautiful Cotswold attractions on our doorstep, including Daylesford Organic and Cotswold Farm Park,’ she says. ‘It’s just a wonderful part of the country.’

Find @cotswoldfoxproperties on both Instagram and Facebook.

K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

A dedicated drinks fridge is a great choice for anyone who hosts a lot of dinner parties

WE LOVE ALL THE ❝ ORIGINAL FEATURES

IN OUR KITCHEN, FROM THE TIMEWORN STONE FIREPLACE TO THE RUSTIC, WHITEWASHED BEAMS

❞

PANTRY

FIREPLACE

TABLE ISLAND

THE LAYOUT A single run and island unit form the working heart of this kitchen, with a freestanding pantry and breakfast cupboard next to the dining table providing extra storage and concealing small appliances. There is direct access to the utility room, and patio doors leading out to the terrace with outdoor fire and gardens beyond.

A woodburning stove keeps the highceilinged kitchen cosy and welcoming even in the depths of winter

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TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL

3

CLEVER DESIGN SOLUTIONS

Sculpted seats make wooden stools much more comfortable

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1

L-SHAPED BREAKFAST BAR

While it’s popular to line up stools in a single row on the front of an island, Joanna’s corner overhang is actually more sociable as guests can all make eye-contact with each other while perched on the stools. Go for a decent overhang, at least 30cm if possible, to ensure knees don’t clash with the island unit. Choose stools that slide neatly underneath the bench.

K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

CABINETRY Shaker cabinetry in RAL 7047 (main units) and RAL 5004 (island and larder unit), £12,000, The Shaker Kitchen Company.

SURFACES Shaker Classic Quartz composite stone worktops and splashbacks, £4,118, The Shaker Kitchen Company. White Oak parquet engineered flooring, £175sq m, Charrington Floors and Interiors. Walls in White matt emulsion, £19 for 10L, Valspar.

APPLIANCES T29TA79N0 90cm gas hob, £1,149; B57CR22N0B slide and hide ovens, £1,049 each; S513M60X1G dishwasher, £658, all Neff. RBF3 built under freezer, £322.29; WI6141 undercounter wine cooler, £689; RIL1795 Integrated in column larder fridge, £649, Caple.

SINKS & TAPS Zero 1.5 bowl undermount sink, £434.99, Caple. BauEdge single-lever sink mixer tap, £125.52, Grohe.

ACCESSORIES Mullan industrial factory pendants, £133 each, Made to Last, are a similar style. Weathered oak counter stools, £190 each, Cox & Cox. Riva Studio 1 inset cassette woodburning stove, £2,015, Stovax. Camargue solid oak dining chairs, £195 each, Oka.

FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHS NEIL SPEAKMAN

The splashback flows seamlessly into the worktop

2

TALL SPLASHBACK

3

COCKTAIL BAR

While Joanna loves the character of the original Cotswold stone in her kitchen, she wasn’t sure how hygienic it would prove around the prep area. Choosing a higher-than-standard 60cm tall splashback along the full length of the wall, and wrapping it inside the windowsill, too, resulted in a smooth surface that blends into the overall look of the kitchen and is easy to wipe clean. ‘We can still see plenty of the bare stone above – it has proved a great solution in an area used to prep food,’ she says.

Tucked under the mezzanine, the cocktail bar entices guests away from the cooking area when Joanna is entertaining

The drinks area at the far end of the kitchen runs parallel to the dining table. ‘We added it as a second stage project as the room didn’t feel quite finished without it,’ says Joanna. Featuring a wine fridge and cupboard for glasses, it boosts the kitchen’s sociable side, especially at Christmas when the house is filled to the rafters with guests. If you have extra space, and host big parties, consider adding a slimline dishwasher in your bar area to put dirty glasses straight into. And add a small sink for holding ice.

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Live Life Well

HEALTH, HAPPINESS, FASHION, TRAVEL, PETS, PASTIMES AND OTHER THINGS TO MAKE LIFE LOVELY WHAT TO PICK, SEE & DO

Explore… Kew Gardens after dark with its festive illuminations, interactive displays and Victorian fairground, 20 November to 5 January, from £18 (kew.org).

Learn… how to give gifts an extra-special touch on a half-day ‘creative wrapping’ course in rural Sussex, 7 December, £65 including materials and refreshments (curioushouse.net).

Enjoy… a spin on the Eden Project’s glittering ice rink, 12 October until 23 February, from £6 (edenproject.com).

Take inspiration from nature to create rustic decorations.

Thread berries onto wire bent into a heart shape and fashion a small loop at the top before cutting the excess. Thread onto twine and hang above the dining table for a festive finish

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FEATURE TARA KING PHOTOGRAPH TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

Pick… mistletoe, to hang above a door. Dip the cut ends in melted wax to keep it looking fresh for longer.

LIVE LIFE WELL

Keep calm From cooking prep and decorating to last-minute present buying, the run-up to Christmas can be frantic. Origami has been proven to relax the mind, so take time out to fold a pretty paper star garland from Cambridge Imprint. The kit costs £13.96 and includes papers, instructions and a little keepsake box.

WRITE TO SANTA

LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOWÉ Celebrating 30 years at the forefront of the slow-fashion movement, Cornish brand Celtic & Co is a marker of timeless (and winter-cosy) style. Reversible merino double zip parka, £1,150, Celtic & Co

Keep tradition alive with a charming stationery service from Polar Post, the official postal service of the North Pole.

With the help of some very talented elves (and parents!), little ones will receive a personalised reply from Father Christmas himself. Prices start at £20.95, polarpost.co.uk

3 steps towards…

an eco-friendly Christmas

BUY GIFTS WISELY Choose a few gifts that will be loved rather lots of little ones, and wrap in recycled paper and saved ribbons.

Or consider gifting experiences instead.

BE CHOOSY WITH YOUR TREE Real trees are the more eco-friendly choice as long as they bear the FSC certification logo.

Why not take it one step further and buy a potted tree with roots that you can plant and then use again next year?

PLAN AHEAD TO AVOID FOOD WASTE Did you know that over four million Christmas dinners are thrown away every year? Not a fan of sprouts? Consider leaving them at the supermarket.

WINTER-READY Cold weather can be tough on hands, so keep yours silky smooth with this rosemary leaf and orange hand cream, inspired by the Orangery at Hanbury Hall in Worcestershire. Made exclusively for the National Trust, it costs £9 for 75ml.

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3 of our favourite…

stockings

Who says they’re just for kids?

B ERRY NI C E Bring a touch of class to your fireplace with this subtle stocking dotted with cute little holly sprigs and finished with a pinstripe collar and pom-pom berries. £15, Sophie Allport

FAU X F EEL Give Santa something to talk about with this luxury design.

Made from supersoft faux fur, it’s sure to become a treasured keepsake.

Also available in Snowy White, £45, Cox & Cox

KNIT-SPIRATION Why buy a cosy knit when you could make your own? From sweaters and scarves to stylish homeware, We Are Knitters offers craft kits to suit all levels, complete with bamboo needles and 100 per cent natural yarn.

Visit weareknitters.co.uk or follow #weareknitters for inspo on sustainable crafting.

A must-have book for all nature lovers, The Almanac: A Seasonal Guide to 2020 (£10, Octopus Publishing) by Lia Leendertz offers inspirational advice on how to celebrate the outdoors each month. Key dates are also included, as well as practical tips for everything from foraging and planet spotting to gardening.

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Crafted from 100 per cent organic cotton and available in four muted shades, this adorable Scandistyle deer will win the hearts of young and old alike. £25, Bobby Rabbit

PAWFECT PRESENT Joules has launched a new country-inspired pet collection just in time for Christmas.

The brand’s heritage tweed print, reimagined in a jolly shade of red, features across toys, leads, collars and coats, as well as this plush pet bed, from £40.

FEATURE TARA KING

BOOK OF THE YEAR

Y ES DEER

LIVE LIFE WELL

There’s lots of festive greenery to be found in Stonor Park

MY COUNTRY PASSION

Foraging for festive decor

FEATURE TARA KING

Ailsa Stonor moved to Stonor Park in Oxfordshire with husband William and their young family in 2015. Together, they run the historic house, which is open to visitors. In keeping with tradition, she decorates using foraged foliage My husband’s family has lived at Stonor Park for more than 850 years. I remember my first Christmas there so well. Every room was festooned with the most beautiful foliage, from garlands and wreaths to stunning mantel and table displays – all foraged from the gardens. Like generations before her, my mother-in-law, Lady Camoys, had done this for her family every year, and I was struck by how beautiful it looked. I’m passionate about recreating that sense of wonderment each year so our visitors get to experience it, too.

In spring, my gardener, Catherine Stanger, and I will sit down with our florist and talk through ideas for the coming Christmas season.

We change theme every year, so it’s

always a different experience. This year is ‘Christmas by Candlelight’.

Foraging starts as early as June, when seed heads form. Allium cristophii are a favourite; once sprayed and glittered, they make stunning ‘stars’. From then on, I’ll head out regularly in search of mistletoe, yew, larch, silver birch, rosemary and Clematis vitalba, as well as pine cones, branches and berries. I always take care to forage from different places, so as not to deplete any one area. The holly harvest is always done as a team, normally in late November. Timing is crucial – it needs to be left on the bush for as long as possible, but we need to get to it before the birds strip the berries. We take out a tractor and trailer, and bring in great

boughs that are then put straight into water, ready for arranging.

The Christmas tree in the Gothic Hall is always a spectacular sight, standing at over 5m tall. The children and I choose it well ahead of time, while it’s still growing – there’s always a lot of deliberation over the perfect size and shape. We decorate it together, using baubles collected over the years from around the world.

For me, bringing the outdoors in is perfect for a country Christmas!

Don’t miss...

Visit Country Homes & Interiors Christmas Show in the grounds of Stonor House from 21-24 November. With more than 100 stands to browse, you can buy all your gifts in one go! To buy tickets, go to: ichfevents.co.uk/countryhomeschristmas COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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LIVE LIFE WELL

LEFT Hadspen House opened its doors for guests this year.

BELOW Sample the cider made on site, as well as delicious, seasonal dishes

A WEEKEND AWAY AT

The Newt

RAMBLING GARDENS AND ORCHARDS SET THE SCENE AT THIS SOMERSET HOTEL

A

lthough its home base is Hadspen House, a ravishing 17th-century pile reimagined with contemporary style and comfort, the focus of The Newt estate is undeniably its outdoor spaces. Comprising a series of biodynamic gardens, orchards, nurseries, woodlands, meadows and a deer park, there are miles of green pathways for guests to wander.

AT ONE WITH NATURE

Much of the restaurant’s produce comes from the kitchen garden, while the hotel’s floral displays are refreshed with stems from the fragrance garden. The greenhouse

FEATURE PATRICK HAMILTON COURTNEY

Spend hours roaming the lush grounds

is full of intriguing plants, and the ponds, lakes and fruit-tree maze offer even more spots for guests to explore. A substantial orchard, replicating one that existed on the estate several hundred years ago, populates the landscape with over 3,000 mature apple trees. There’s also an on-site cider press, as well as barn conversions and farm and homeware shops. All of this is surrounded by dense woodland, home to wildlife and herds of fallow deer. What more could you want?

HOTEL SPLENDOUR

Despite being the sister hotel to much-loved Cape Winelands retreat, Babylonstoren, The Newt is a prime example of 1600s British architecture.

The hotel has 23 elegant bedrooms across the main house and stables, offering delightful views over the grounds, as well as larders full of

complimentary delights. In the house, the decor is soft and feminine with four-poster beds, crisp white sheets, ivory walls, vintage furniture and deep plush velvet upholstery.

In the stable yard, bedrooms have a more contemporary feel. Expect bolder colours and curious layouts (even a bed in a stable stall), bringing modernity to this rural idyll.

GREEN FINGERED FOODIE

With all that freshly grown produce, it’s no surprise that the estate’s main restaurant, The Botanical Rooms, focuses on seasonal fruit and veg grown on site. There’s also a beautifully styled bar with lofty ceilings, a wine-tasting cellar and a number of glass-fronted eateries nestled throughout the gardens.

The Newt in Somerset, Bruton, Somerset BA7 7NG, thenewtinsomerset.com

While youÕre there...

GARDEN TOURS

CARO SOMERSET

HAUSER & WIRTH

Learn from the experts on one of The Newt’s garden tours, departing each morning from the farmyard at 10.30am.

You’ll get to taste, pick and smell the different produce on offer, too.

Head to Bruton High Street to browse a host of independent boutiques, cafés and lifestyle stores.

Our favourite? Caro Somerset for its curated selection of beauty products and homeware.

The countryside outpost of this famed international contemporary art gallery, headed by Ursula Hauser and Iwan and Manuela Wirth. Head over for free exhibitions by some of the world’s leading artists.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

137

Make it a

NATURAL CHRISTMAS Create unique garlands by stringing together anything from popcorn to pine cones, or upcycle vintage lace and crocheted doilies

Made from foraged pine cones, sprigs of herbs and textured twine, these ideas will bring a natural look to your decor

It’s easy to feel distanced from nature during the winter months, as we huddle inside to avoid the cold.

But there are plenty of ways to bring the outside in during the festive season. Take a basket with you on a winter walk and gather pine cones, berries and sprigs of seasonal foliage. Try drying slices of lemon and orange to combine with other fragrant elements such as cinnamon sticks to create simple decorations with a country feel. Upcycle beads, ribbons and offcuts of crochet to make beautiful handmade garlands, or rediscover the childhood joy of potato printing to produce bespoke giftwrap. There are plenty of ideas for bringing the beauty and bounty of nature into your Christmas scheme.

1 CANDLE BOWL Half fill a footed glass bowl with water and add floating candles.

Place in a shallow glass dish and arrange sprigs of rosemary, snowberries and larch cones to create a woodland centrepiece.

Bolsius floating candles, ÂŁ5.94 for 20, Amazon 138

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

G E T C R E AT I V E

2 FORAGED WREATH Adorn your door with a simple frosted wreath made from foraged materials. Use a hot-glue gun to attach different sized pine and larch cones to a wreath blank. Start with larger forms, then fill in the gaps with smaller ones. Once secure, lightly dust with artificial snow spray for a frosted look. Finish with a sparkling silk rose and an off-centre ribbon. Larch cones, ÂŁ4.95 for 200, Baker Ross

PERFECT FINISH Spray paint a polystyrene wreath blank in brown before adding pine cones to disguise any bare areas when it’s covered.

G E T C R E AT I V E

Make a set of scented fire starters as a gift.

Gather aromatic materials such as cinnamon sticks, pine cones and dried fruit slices. Bundle them in squares of newspaper, roll up and tie with jute at both ends to resemble a cracker. Arrange in a wooden box with rustic logs as a practical gift for a friend with a log burner or an open fire.

4 NAPKIN RINGS For a set of rustic napkin rings, plait lengths of thick jute twine or rope, adding a strand of sparkling thread. Use a hot-glue gun to secure the ends, creating a loop large enough to fit your napkins through.

Finish with a sprig of eucalyptus and arrange with a couple of pine cones for a natural place setting.

Gold sparkle twine, £5.25, Paper Tree UK at Etsy

5 STAMPED GIFTWRAP Slice a large potato in half and carefully score a festive shape.

Cut away the potato on the outside of the score, so the shape is raised. Dip into paint and stamp the motifs onto a sheet of brown paper. Stamp several times before re-coating with paint and repeat until paper is covered. Leave to dry.

Athenian Black chalk paint, £19.95 for 1L, Annie Sloan 140

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS (STAMPED GIFTWRAP) ANNIE SLOAN; TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

3 FRAGRANT FIRE LIGHTERS

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS PA R T N E R S H I P

BUY ART ONLINE

DRESS WALLS WITH ARTWORK BY RUNWAY-GALLERY.COM ARTIST SUE DRAY, WHO PAINTS LIVE FROM THE CATWALK TO CREATE HER ABSTRACT PIECES Sue Dray is one of a number of talented artists featured in Runway Gallery, an online showcase of contemporary art. Sitting backstage at London Fashion Week, she captures the beauty, attitude and fast-paced nature of the catwalk in her illustrative style.

FEATURE TARA KING

I started my portfolio at just five years old. My first illustration was of a group of girls getting onto a school bus.

They all had a handbag, jewellery, beautiful clothes… the detail was amazing. Even though I paint quickly, I love detail.

I recently went to see the Bayeux Tapestry and I couldn’t draw my eyes away, and I’ve been back to the Dior exhibition at the V&A Museum about five times, too! I love the intricate beauty

in Frida Kahlo’s work and David Hockney is my absolute hero.

The catwalk is my studio, it’s where I come alive. I’m inspired by the buzz and creativity. My work is about reacting to a moment in time.

Once the lights go down and the show begins, I focus solely on capturing my emotive response to the fleeting vision in front of me and let the lines dance across the paper. I call it ‘haptic’. It’s meditative yet exhausting at the same time – I feel like I’ve run a marathon by the time the show is over.

I never rework anything. If it’s not captured in the moment, it’s over and lost. It takes practice to be confident in your mark and just let it be.

I prefer to work standing up, almost dancing. I feel it brings more energy to my pieces. I usually sit in the front row at London Fashion Week, so am restricted to

using coloured pencils.

This year, however, I was artist in residence and worked from my easel alongside the press photographers, which meant I could paint freely without worrying about spilling paint on anyone’s Dior handbag! I love the unpredictability of acrylics; you never quite know how it’s going to turn out. I was recently approached by Apple to test the new iPad Pro; it’s another exciting drawing tool – but nothing quite replaces the human touch.

I regularly move artwork around in my home. By doing this, you look at each piece with fresh eyes.

The same technique works with furniture, too.

I don’t have any of my own artwork on my walls, but if I did, I would hang it in antique frames. I scour vintage shops to find them, the more ornate the better.

Buy stylish and affordable artwork

by Sue Dray and various other artists at runway-gallery.com

NEXT MON T H Corran Brownlee’s haunting black-and-white images.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN

COOKS’ NOTES

Extra festive touch If you’re going to be spending a lot of time basting the turkey and prepping canapés this Christmas, then you’ll want to make sure your kitchen is as seasonally appropriate as the food you’re serving. Luckily, Thornback & Peel has released a pretty, Mrs Beeton-inspired, festive print across its range of kitchen textiles.

Featuring Christmas puds topped with sweet sprigs of holly, it’s available on oven gloves, aprons, napkins and tea towels – perfect if you love a co-ordinated theme.

Christmas Pudding tea towel, £12, Thornback & Peel

FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT

A BIT CRACKERS There isn’t a better time of year for novelty food than 25 December, and Waitrose & Partners hasn’t let us down. The tongue-in-cheek Pork and Pancetta Christmas Cracker, £6.99, makes for a fun centrepiece and is big enough to feed 10.

The giant sausage roll is made of crisp, buttery puff pastry surrounding British pork and pancetta, cranberries and sage and onion stuffing. Now the only thing left is to come up with some bad cracker jokes… What do you get if you eat Christmas decorations?

Tinsillitis!

’TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS… It just wouldn’t be Christmas without a hamper bursting with delicious goodies, would it? Daylesford has lots of options on offer, but our favourite has to be The Night Before Christmas Gift Box, £90. Packed with treats and bubbles to make Christmas Eve just as special as the big day itself, everyone’s been catered for. Light the fig leaf-scented candle to create a cosy ambience, tuck into the mini mince pies, crack open the rosé and voila! Christmas Eve perfection.

Seasonal style We love kitchenware that gives a nod to the holidays, and Staub’s Snowflake and Christmas Tree Cocottes, from £229 each, are just the ticket. The high-quality, solid cast-iron is finished in a choice of rich and glossy red or green to match the lovely embossing on the top, and can be taken straight from the oven to the table for serving. The Cocottes have a rough texture inside, creating a mini grill effect, ensuring even cooking and caramelising without burning. They’re also great at retaining heat – perfect for grabbing seconds.

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IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN

IN THE PINK Devon-born Salcombe Gin has introduced Rosé Sainte Marie, a Mediterraneaninspired pink gin.

Dry and delicate, the juniper is mixed with 12 botanicals, from rose petals to pink peppercorns. £40 for 70cl, Salcombe Gin

FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT PHOTOGRAPH SIMON BEVAN/TIMEDIACONTENT.COM

SPARKLING REMEDY With a mix of over 300 herbs and botanicals, Floreat is a crisp, low-alcohol English sparkling wine. Its notes of gooseberry, melon and floral blossom are best enjoyed chilled and on its own. £26 for 75cl, Floreat

FESTIVE FLAVOUR Yuletide Gin includes notes of juniper, cinnamon, nutmeg, mince pies, chestnuts and even tree needles – it’s basically Christmas in a bottle, plus edible gold flakes, too! £34.95 for 50cl, That Boutique-y Gin Company

MODERN MIXER Muyu is created with natural ingredients to create a liqueur ideal mixed into cocktails. Flavours of Jasmine Verte (floral, fresh), Chinotto Nero (citrusy, opulent) and Vetiver Grix (earthy, woody). £28.75 for 50cl,The Whiskey Exchange

Country COCKTAILS

PINE AND NEEDLES Add some seasonal flavour to a vodka tonic with Douglas Fir Vodka from The Hepple Distillery.

Made from real Douglas Fir needles, it has a refreshing zing that works beautifully with tonic water, ice and a melon garnish. £33 for 50cl, Waitrose & Partners

BOTANICAL FLAVOURS BRING A NEW SPIRIT TO ALCOHOLIC AND SOFT DRINKS THIS CHRISTMAS

ITALIAN INFUSION Crafted from Italian bergamot, Italicus is a replica of a recipe from the 1800s and fuses citrus and floral flavours. Great served 50/50 with prosecco over ice and, according to its blenders, garnished with exactly three green olives! £40 for 70cl, Harvey Nichols

SWEET AND SHARP Made in Scotland, this spiced rum adds the trademark sweet and sharp notes of rhubarb into its mix. Delicious mixed with ginger ale or in a glass of champagne.

Dark Matter Spiced Rhubarb Rum Liqueur, £18.95 for 50cl, Dark Matter Distillers

ANCIENT BLEND Blended and bottled in England, the non-alcoholic aperitifs from Æcorn are inspired by 17th-century herbal remedies and made from a mix of grapes, herbs, roots and botanicals.

Available in Bitter, Dry and Aromatic. £19.99 for 50cl, Æcorn

A WEE DRAM The first Irish whiskey bottled in Derry in over 100 years, The Quiet Man is small-batch distilled and finished in bourbon barrels for sweet and spicy notes. The name is a tribute to the brand owner’s father – a quiet bartender who heard many stories but told no tales. £36.83 for 70cl, Master of Malt COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

145

LIMONCELLO AND PROSECCO JELLY >

A kind of magic...

ADD A SENSE OF WONDER TO YOUR CHRISTMAS FEASTING AND REVEAL A MENU OF INDULGENT DISHES THAT EVERYONE WILL LOVE

GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD

Cook’s note...

THIS SALAD WOULD BE JUST AS DELICIOUS USING KING PRAWNS INSTEAD OF LOBSTER

LOBSTER AND RUBY GRAPEFRUIT SALAD >

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

147

GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD

LIMONCELLO AND PROSECCO JELLY Delicious as an elegant appetiser or dessert.

SERVES 6 7 leaves of gelatine

500ml Prosecco

8tbsp limoncello 1½tbsp caster sugar

Edible gold glitter

1 Put the gelatine in a bowl of cold water for 5min or until soft. Squeeze the leaves and discard the water.

2 Put the limoncello into a bowl that fits snugly over a pan of boiling water. Add the gelatine and sugar, and heat gently until dissolved. Remove from the heat, cool slightly, then add the Prosecco. Pour into a jug.

3 Pour the mixture into four serving glasses, filling them almost to the top. Refrigerate until set.

Dust with the gold glitter to serve.

LOBSTER AND RUBY GRAPEFRUIT SALAD The perfect tasty but delicate starter before a hearty main.

in a little water to ensure they are submerged.

Bring the poaching liquid to a slow simmer and cook the pears until just tender; this will take 15-25min, depending on their ripeness. Set aside.

3 Preheat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180˚C/Gas 6.

Rub the beef all over with olive oil and season well.

Cook in a roasting tin for 30min until well browned and sizzling. Reduce the heat to 160°C/Fan 140˚C/ Gas 3, then roast for 10min per 500g for rare or 15min per 500g for medium, basting occasionally.

Transfer the beef to a board and leave to rest, loosely covered with foil, for 30min.

4 About 10min before the meat is ready to serve, pour off any fat from the roasting tin. Put the tin on the hob over a medium heat and pour in 100ml water. Bring to the boil, scraping the tin to release any stuck bits. Simmer until the juices look dark.

5 Meanwhile, bring the pears back to a simmer and heat for 5min. Use a slotted spoon to lift the pears and shallots onto a large serving platter.

6 Boil the poaching liquid until reduced by half and add to the juices in the roasting tin. Boil for 1min, then strain into a gravy boat. Transfer the beef to the platter with the pears and shallots to serve.

SERVES 6 6 small cooked lobsters, tails and claws removed 2 ruby grapefruits, halved and segmented, plus 4tbsp grapefruit juice

150g watercress 6tbsp olive oil Pinch of sugar Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 Arrange the lobster claws and tails, grapefruit and watercress on six plates.

2 Mix the grapefruit juice with the olive oil and sugar, then season well. Drizzle over the salad.

ROAST BEEF WITH SPICED PEARS AND RED WINE SAUCE Rib of beef is always a crowd-pleaser and choosing a joint this size ensures there is plenty to go round.

SERVES 6-8

PARSNIP AND SAGE ROASTIES A foolproof recipe for perfect roast potatoes.

SERVES 6 8tbsp rapeseed oil 750g Maris Piper potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

6 baby parsnips, peeled 6 shallots, peeled Bunch of fresh sage leaves

1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/Fan 200˚C/Gas 7. Pour the oil into a roasting tin and heat in the oven. Boil the potatoes for 10min, drain and steam-dry for 2min.

2 Shake the potatoes to rough up the edges, then add to the tin with the rest of the vegetables. Roast for 45min, adding the sage halfway through.

CITRUS STIR-FRIED VEGETABLES Jazz up your greens with mushrooms and zesty lemon.

SERVES 6 750ml Pinot Noir 100ml crème de cassis 1tbsp clear honey 1 red chilli, sliced open lengthways 3 rosemary sprigs 2 cinnamon sticks, broken

8 juniper berries 8 Conference pears, peeled 250g shallots, peeled 3kg aged three-rib joint of beef Olive oil, for roasting Salt and black pepper

1 Put the wine, cassis and honey in a pan that will snugly fit the pears and shallots. Add the chilli, rosemary, cinnamon and juniper, and stir well.

2 Add the pears and shallots and, if needed, pour

148

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

200g portobellini mushrooms, sliced 200g chestnut mushrooms, halved

2tbsp olive oil 1 garlic clove, crushed 500g chard, chopped Zest and juice of ½ lemon

1 In a large frying pan, fry the mushrooms in the oil for 10min. Add the garlic and fry for a further 2min.

2 Add the chard and cook, stirring, until wilted. Stir through the lemon zest and juice.

ROAST BEEF WITH SPICED PEARS AND RED WINE SAUCE

GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD

CHESTNUT, MUSHROOM AND CIDER PIES Whether you’re veggie or not, these comforting pies are a lovely variation on classic Christmas food.

SERVES 2

150

1tbsp olive oil 1 red onion, thickly sliced 25g dried porcini

2tbsp fresh thyme leaves

mushrooms 125g chestnut

300ml dry cider 4tbsp double cream

mushrooms, sliced 125g button mushrooms

150g puff pastry Flour to dust

225g chestnuts, sliced

1 egg yolk, beaten

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 Heat the oil in a sauté pan and cook the onion until just soft. Meanwhile, cover the porcini with hot water and leave to soak for 15min. Drain the porcini, reserving the liquid, and add them to the pan, along with the remaining mushrooms, chestnuts and thyme. Season well.

2 Pour in the cider and 150ml of the porcini liquid, bring to the boil, then simmer for 15min.

Stir in the cream, then remove from the heat to cool. Divide between two 250ml ramekins.

3 Preheat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180˚C/Gas 6.

Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut out two circles to sit on top of the filling.

Glaze the pastry with egg yolk and bake for 25min, until the pastry is golden.

PARSNIP AND SAGE ROASTIES

CITRUS STIR-FRIED VEGETABLES

GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD

PEACH AND SALTED CARAMEL TRIFLE Swap out the Christmas pudding this year for a dish the whole family will love.

SERVES 8-10 284ml double cream 2tbsp icing sugar

peaches in brandy 1tbsp brandy

1tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

397g tin Carnation Caramel

2tbsp toffee sauce Handful of hazelnuts

1tsp Maldon sea salt 1L ready-made

or macadamia nuts, toasted and roughly

vanilla custard

chopped

FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT RECIPES JANE CURRAN/MARINA FILIPPELLI/TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM PHOTOGRAPHS SIMON BROWN/MAJA SMEND/RICHARD JUNG/WILLIAM LINGWOOD/TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

8 madeleine sponges 2 x 400g jars halved

1 Arrange the madeleines in the bottom of a large, deep trifle dish. Strain the peaches, reserving the liquor from one of the jars. Slice the peaches, then place them on top of the madeleines. Pour over the brandy and the reserved peach liquor from the jar.

2 Mix the tinned caramel with the sea salt and pour over the peaches and sponge. Spoon the custard on top. Put the trifle in the fridge to chill while you whip the double cream.

3 Add the icing sugar and vanilla to the double cream and whisk to soft peaks. Spoon onto the caramel. Chill for at least 30min. Just before serving, drizzle toffee sauce onto the top of the trifle and sprinkle with the toasted nuts.

152

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

F U L LY E S C O RT E D T O U R S

Pompeii, Capri & the Bay of Naples

Dubrovnik & the Dalmatian Coast

Selected departures from March to November 2020.

8 days from only £729pp.

Selected departures from April to October 2020.

8 days half-board from only £1,079pp.

Price includes: Discover the ancient Roman town of Herculaneum with a local guide Delve deeper into the mysteries of Pompeii on a guided tour Take a full-day tour of the breathtaking Amalfi coast Spend the day visiting the stunning island of Capri Enjoy a walking orientation tour of Sorrento Return flights from the UK Seven nights in a choice of conveniently located accommodation rated three- to four-star superior, plus breakfast and dinner (stays at the Hotel Mediterraneo and La Badia are on a bed-and-breakfast basis) The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager

Price includes: Guided tour of Dubrovnik the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ Visit to Krka National Park and its series of stunning waterfalls and lakes Visit to Mostar, with its iconic bridge Guided tour of Split including entrance to Emperor Diocletian’s monumental palace Visit to medieval Trogir, one of Dalmatia’s most seductive old ports Explore the Dalmatian coastline, studded with perfectly preserved Venetian-influenced villages Return flights from the UK Seven nights’ four-star hotel accommodation with breakfast and dinner The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager

Classical Spain – Seville, Córdoba & Granada

Lake Garda, Venice & Verona

* * * * *

*

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Selected departures from March to November 2020.

7 days from only £499pp.

Price includes: Visit to medieval Ronda, one of Spain’s most spectacularly situated cities Visit Granada’s stunning Alhambra, one of Europe’s most romantic palace fortresses Guided tour of Seville and spend an evening sampling delicious tapas Visit to Córdoba with a guided tour of the Mezquita – probably the most beautiful mosque ever constructed – entrance included Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers Six nights in three-star superior and four-star accommodation, with breakfast The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager

*

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Selected departures from April to October 2020.

8 days half-board from only £699pp.

Price includes: Enjoy a full day exploring Lake Garda, both on land and by boat Explore Venice on a tour with a local guide – choose between the ‘classic’ and ‘undiscovered’ tours Walk into history among the Roman ruins of Verona, guided by a local expert – choose between the ‘classic’ and ‘undiscovered’ tours Marvel at the alpine scenery of the Dolomites on a full-day tour Enjoy two free days to explore further at your leisure Visit a local vineyard, with a guided tour of the cellars and a tasting of the superb wines Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers Seven nights in a choice of conveniently located accommodation rated three-star to four-star superior, with breakfast and dinner The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

*

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To book or request a brochure, call 01283 523454 or visit cohriviera.co.uk Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability.

Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd. ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Country Homes & Interiors, published by TI Media Limited.

Prices correct at time of going to print.

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COSY UP FOR WINTER! ■ TRANSFORM YOUR HOME INTO A SNUG SANCTUARY ■ LILAC AND LAVENDER: CHEERY NEW KITCHEN SHADES ■ SWEET, SPICED BAKES THAT MAKE PERFECT GIFTS ■ A SNEAK PEEK INSIDE FOUR STUNNING COUNTRY HOMES PLUS... A WINTER WONDERLAND GARDEN, THE COMFIEST BEDS AROUND AND FESTIVE FINISHING TOUCHES PARTY TIME! HOW TO HOST NEW YEAR IN STYLE

ON SALE 5 DECEMBER 2019

SHOPPING DIRECTORY

YOU’LL FIND ALL THE COMPANIES IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE HERE ardmore-design.com A AECORN APERITIFS

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HUNTER & CO

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ARMSTRONG KEYWORTH

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frenchconnection.com FRENCH HOUSE 020 7859 4939 thefrenchhouse.net FROM THE POST HOUSE

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GABRIELLA SHAW CERAMICS G gabriellashawceramics.com GARDEN TRADING 01993

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LOMBOK lombok.co.uk LOUNGE IN THE GARDEN

loungeinthegarden.co.uk LUCKY LOBSTER ART

luckylobsterart.co.uk

M made-to-last.co.uk 01600 MADE TO LAST

MANDARIN STONE

715444 mandarinstone.com

MARKS & SPENCER 0333 014

8000 marksandspencer.com

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

155

THORNBACK & PEEL

MASTER OF MALT 0800 520

0474 masterofmalt.com

020 7831 2878 thornbackandpeel.co.uk

masterclasskitchens.co.uk MELODY MAISON 01302 741000 melodymaison.co.uk MIELE 0330 160 6600 miele.co.uk misspompom.com

020 8949 4757 thornhillgalleries.co.uk TINSMITHS 01531 632083 tinsmiths.co.uk TK MAXX 01923 473561 tkmaxx.com TOAST 0333 400 5200 toa.st

N 0300 123 2025 shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

tollymcrae.co.uk TORI MURPHY 01159 608472 torimurphy.com

MASTERCLASS KITCHENS 01443 449499

THORNHILL GALLERIES

MISS POMPOM

TOLLY MCRAE

NATIONAL TRUST SHOP

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

0845 330 1288 U urbanoutfitters.co.uk

URBAN OUTFITTERS

020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk

NEFF 0344 892 8989

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NEPTUNE 01793 427300

VALSPAR 0344 736 9174 V valsparpaint.co.uk VANESSA ARBUTHNOTT

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NINI ORGANICS

niniorganics.com NKUKU 0333 240 0155 nkuku.com NORDIC HOUSE 01872 223220 nordichouse.co.uk

33

NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET. COM 020 3318 5115

O 020 7632 5400 octopusbooks.co.uk

OCTOPUS PUBLISHING

OGGETTO 01305 881010

oggetto.com OKA 03330 042042 oka.com OLIVER BONAS 020 8974 0110 oliverbonas.com ONE 40 01483 272627 one40.co.uk ONE.WORLD 020 8974 2211 ORIGINAL BTC 01993 882251 originalbtc.com OTTERS BARN INTERIORS

07939 652053 OTTO TILES 0203 488 3205 ottotiles.co.uk

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PAINT & PAPER LIBRARY

PAPERS AND PAINTS

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01548 S 288180 salcombegin.com 01386 841116

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T thatboutiqueygin

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THE CHOCOLATIER

QASA QASA

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WHITE STUFF 020 3752 5360 WILLIAM HOLLAND 01305

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3800 willowandhall.co.uk

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THE JAVA STORE

THE KINDNESS CO-OP

SEEDLINGS CARDS & GIFTS 01684 491275

Q qasaqasa.co.uk 01280 R 848277 raefeather.com

01432 870855 white-hall.co.uk

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SAM WILSON

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THE LITTLE YORKSHIRE CANDLE COMPANY

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WAITROSE & PARTNERS

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THE BASKET COMPANY

THE LIGHTING COMPANY

PERCH & PARROW

W waitrose.com 01323

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PAXTON & WHITFIELD

156

RAJ TENT CLUB 020 8847

01285 831437 vanessaarbuthnott.co.uk VICTORIA + ALBERT BATHS vandabaths.com VINTERIOR 020 3393 0383 vinterior.co VV ROULEAUX 020 7224 5179 vvrouleaux.com

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lightingcompany.co.uk

thelittleyorkshirecandle company.co.uk THE LONDON SOCK EXCHANGE

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theshakerkitchen.co.uk THE TAYLOR 01484 643689 the-taylor.co.uk THE VINTAGE LOOK 01491 413931 thevintagelook henleyonthames.co.uk THE WHISKY EXCHANGE

thewhiskyexchange.com THE WHITE COMPANY

thewhitecompany.com

woodandmeadow.com YOGA MATTERS

YONDER.LIVING ZIA TILE

BE CANDLE SAFE Enjoy the special touch that candles add to your home; but take care to use them safely: Always place lit candles well away from foliage, furniture, curtains and soft furnishings, and always out of draughts. Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.

Never leave a burning candle unattended and keep candles away from hair and clothing.

Always place candles upright in suitable holders that can’t easily fall over. Always be sure that candles are properly extinguished.

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Bathrooms

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161/162 Furniture

164

Flooring

163

Gardens

164

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165

Home Accessories

164

Home Interiors

165

Kitchens

165

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161

Sofas & Sofabeds

165

Tiles

Just for You

An advertisement feature bringing you the best value for those special purchases around your home.

To advertise, please call 0207 611 1061 or email sales@canopymedia.co.uk

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A MODERN CLASSIC YOUR KITCHEN WORKTOPS £100 OFF STYLISH DINING TRANSFORMED IN A DAY - SEATS FOUR

The Bojan dining set has a luxurious walnut finish with an elegant Scandinavian design. The four Bojan, Eames-style dining chairs boast an artificial leather cushion pad which can be easily wiped clean. The dining table measures 110cm in diameter and 75cm in height and has a luxurious walnut veneer finish.

A beautiful selection of traditional, modern, and contemporary designs awaits you in the showroom in High Wycombe. All items carry a 10 year frame guarantee, most orders delivered within six weeks.

To claim FREE Guardsman Fabric Protection Plan, visit showroom Victoria Street, High Wycombe, Bucks HP11 2LT, www.tailormadesofas.co.uk tel 01494 462233, T&C’s apply before 31.12.19.

T EA E! GR ALU V

Tailormade Sofas o�fer a traditional handmade service producing sofas in their own workshop above the Showroom. All sofas are built to individual size requirements, with a choice of cushion fillings to suit, and a comprehensive range of quality fabrics available for that individual look.

Quartzize produces a beautiful quartz-stone product that overlays your existing work surfaces as if by magic. The company manufactures and installs its stunning quartz overlays to enhance your kitchen with a real stone look and feel. This is a superbly simple way to improve your work tops without the mess or fuss of removing the existing ones.

Quartzize can also fit new sinks taps and hobs to give your whole kitchen a completely new high-quality look. Quartzize are hygienic, long-lasting, easy to care for and timeless.

Quartzize are currently offering free fitting exclusively to all Just For You readers, a saving of up to £250. Call 0800 802 1792 now for a FREE quotation or visit www.quartzize.com

Was £399, now £299 for readers when you quote code JFU28OCT a saving of £100!

Visit www.outandout.com or call 02037 728 752 by 28.11.19

All companies listed are wholly independent. We recommend that you carry out your own checks before entering into any agreement. When making any purchases we would recommend that you use a credit card providing protection in the unlikely event of any issues. No part of this page maybe reproduced without the permission of Canopy Media.

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Fill one tank with water and the other with Vax Platinum Solution – our best ever carpet cleaning solution – then AutoMix does the rest.

There’s no measuring, just pour it in and you’re ready to go. When you’re done just tip the dirty water away. Our Quick Clean function will have your carpet dry again in as little as 1 hour*.

Patented smart technology It’s packed with smart technology, treating the carpet with a precise mix of water and Vax Platinum solution. Our patented SpinScrub Technology and powerful XL brush bar agitate the carpet in two different directions, pushing the solution into the fibres before the bacteria and dirt are sucked away. In fact, the Vax Platinum cleans carpets better than the leading rental^. ** Vax Platinum Power Max. Sales by Value, UK market data for Wet & Wash Jan 2018 – Dec 2018 ^ Cleaning effectiveness on carpet, tested in deep clean mode according to IEC 628853:2014 part 5.2.1. For further information email claimsinfo@vax.co.uk * Tested in quick clean mode. Results may vary. Orders before 5pm Monday-Friday will be next day delivery. Outside of these times, orders will be despatched next working day. Offer only while stocks last.

Clean more than just your carpets The new Vax Platinum comes loaded with handy tools. The pre-treatment wand helps you get busy areas clean with ease. The SpinScrub tool and hose give your car interior, stairs and upholstery a deep-down clean; allowing you to remove the most stubborn of stains.

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CALL: 0800 0116 580 Web: vax.co.uk

4

EASY PAYMENTS AVAILABLE

M A R K E T P L AC E SofaS and Sofa BedS

TRADITIONAL BRITISH UPHOLSTERY SINCE 1987

LE ON SA W O N

GREAT BRITISH SOFAS DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER SAVE 25% OFF IN OUR AUTUMN SALE

Agatha 3 seater sofa was £869 - Sale price £649

www.sofasofa.co.uk

For a free colour brochure call 01495 244226

Elizabeth 3 seater was £1339 - now only £999

www.kirkdale.co.uk Call now for your free brochure 01495 243999 Furniture

GREAT BRITISH HANDMADE LEATHER SOFAS DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

Hang your hat in style.

Designed for us by Ben Fowler and winner o a prestigious Design Guild Mark, each hat & coat tree is composed of eight strips of bee steam bent at differing heights to support h coats, bags or anything else. Mount one uni anywhere at home, or put several side-by-si to kit out a cloakroom or hallway.

Available only from Futon Company.

was £1659 Autumn Sale price £1249

Call now for a brochure

01443 771222

or visit

www.thomaslloyd.com

Experts in small space living 21 stores | 0345 609 4455 | futoncompany.co.uk

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

M A R K E T P L AC E Furniture

SALE NOW ON Only £299.

Only from us.

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Oakridge .

Sofas .

S ÒExtraordinary CUMB LE name.

GOOSIE

Extraordinary furniture.Ó

Madrid loose cover sofa was £399 - now £299

NO RISK 21 DAY HOME TRIAL 5 YEAR FRAME GUARANTEE FACTORY DIRECT PRICES

www.oakridgedirect.co.uk Tele 01685 844944

01453 731305

www.scumblegoosie.com

BESPOKE RADIATOR CABINETS

Made to Measure S

GY G ER IN EN AV

Blenheim’s bespoke-made cabinets are the elegant and heat efficient way to hide ugly radiators in your home.

BEFORE

of designs and finishes • Choice to suit any decor made to cover any size • Custom or shape radiator • Unique ‘Reflect Flow’ heat system Measuring and Fitting for • FREE 2 or more cabinets home design service and • FREE nationwide installation

SALE NOW ON

Call for brochure or FREE Home Design Visit

GY ER ING EN AV S

REQUEST OUR LATEST BROCHURE

AFTER

Beautiful Rad ator Cabi nets & Bookcases BEAUTI

www.blenheimcabinets.co.uk

Beautiful and practical storage for bathrooms big and small.

From 450mm to 1500mm wide.

FUL RA DIA & BOOK TOR CABINETS CASES

FREE HOME DESIGN VISIT

Call FREE 0808 120 4333 or call Susan 01260 217 333†

† Standard rates apply.

Albion’s Handmade Bathroom Furniture

Painted to your choice.

FREE

Request your brochure of our bathroom furniture.

01255 831605 albionbathco.com

MASTER CABINET MAKERS

HAND MADE IN ENGLAND

ALBION BATH CO M PAN Y

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

M A R K E T P L AC E Bathrooms

Gardens

What’s unique about an Albion Bath?

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

Request your brochure for our range of 50 beautiful bath tubs.

01255 831605 albionbathco.com

ALBION BAT H C O MPA N Y

HAND MADE IN ENGLAND

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

M A R K E T P L AC E Home InterIors

Flooring

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

Garden Furniture

Beds & Bedding

Fireguards fo r stoves Handcrafted for you in Nottinghamshire

The Ambassador Four Poster Bed

Handmade in Britain

FREE DELIVERY & INSTALLATION | 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

catalogue available

Request your free brochure and wood samples

www.garden-requisites.co.uk

01777 869 669 | revivalbeds.co.uk

01225 851577

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

M A R K E T P L AC E Tiles

Beautiful products, great prices 0161 277 6850 stonesuperstore.co.uk sales@stonesuperstore.co.uk stonesuperstore.co.uk Online: stonesuperstore.co.uk

Lighting

Kitchens

Home Accessories

HUGE CHOICE OF STYLISH WIPEABLE TABLECLOTHS CUSTOM CUT TO SIZE

CHRISTMAS DESIGNS IN STOCK www.wipeeasytablecloths.com 01606 833886

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

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

This area of London comes into its own during the festivities

MY FAVOURITE VIEW…

St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden From the fourth and fifth floors of The Royal Opera House you can see Covent Garden and St Paul’s Church.

It’s a beautiful view, but the main reason I love seeing it is because of my maternal grandmother, who was a ballet dancer herself in London in the Fifties – she had lessons with Stanislas Idzikowski, who now has a plaque in that church.

I was with the Birmingham Royal Ballet when I was first approached to join The Royal Ballet company in London. After meeting the director, I tried to find somewhere quiet where I could call my family in Australia and let them know that I’d been offered the job. I ended up sitting in St Paul’s Church, so it’s quite a significant place for me. My grandmother had asked me to go and see Idzikowski’s plaque for her, and whenever she’s 166

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

able to come to London to visit me, one of the first thing she does is say, ‘Alright, I’m going to see Idzi!’ So every day when I look down and see the church, I’m reminded of both my grandmother and how far I’ve come.

At Christmas, Covent Garden is even more special. There’s always an enormous tree right in front of the church and the streets are filled with lights and decorations. There are people everywhere and you can really hear and feel the buzz and excitement. Looking out from the rest area in the Opera House, you’re right above all the busyness, but it’s quite peaceful there. I love this time of year – everyone’s in a good mood, plus my birthday is 24 December!

One of the best things about The Nutcracker is that it brings people together for all the right reasons –

a lot of people go to see it as a family tradition. On stage, you can feel the warmth from the audience.

This year, we’re showing The Nutcracker in cinemas, which is a wonderful experience – you get some fantastic angles and get to see things happening on stage that you may miss when watching a live ballet. It’s an amazing opportunity for people who aren’t able to travel to London, too – my family in Australia can watch it and my grandmother gets to text me her critique!

The Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker (recorded 2016) will be in cinemas all over the UK from 17 December.

For more info, visit roh.org.uk/cinemas

FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT PHOTOGRAPHS (MAIN IMAGE) ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Alexander Campbell, principal dancer at The Royal Ballet, is reminded of family and how far he’s come as he looks out at the view from the Royal Opera House

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS

For a free copy of our brochure please call 01473 826931 or visit www.jim-lawrence.co.uk

Orla Glass Pendant £176