Made to endure and designed to enjoy; bring a little art into your everyday with our handmade collections for house and garden.
Notebook
15 SPOTLIGHT ON... The launch of a new collection from Moro Dabron.
16 PEOPLE & PLACES Our edit of news, events and stories of craftsmanship.
22 DESIGN DISCOVERIES Add layers of interest and texture with the latest papers, fabrics and flooring.
28 EASY-BREEZY BLUES & WHITES Create a relaxed summer mood with this classic colour combination.
30 SALAD DAYS Make the most of seasonal delicacies with appropriately decorative serving bowls and platters.
32 THE EDIT A digest of brand updates.
34 SUBSCRIBE Sign up today for fantastic subscriber benefits in a better than half-price offer.
English Homes
36 LAYER UPON LAYER Creating character with vintage finds and meaningful pieces is beautifully illustrated in this barn conversion in Warwickshire.
44 DESIGN FOR LIVING Interior designer John Wright has created a haven overlooking the sea in Hastings for himself and his art and antiques.
50 REIMAGINED BAKERY Cleverly restored and extended, this 16thcentury Cotswold property is now a home with heart.
58 POISED PERFECTION Host to royals, prime ministers and US officers, this country house in Leicestershire has been lovingly updated by its current owner over the past 40 years.
Style Inspiration
69 WALLS THAT TALK Fromental’s new augmented-reality wallpaper.
70 PARTY IN THE GARDEN Set the scene for an outdoor gathering with elegant tableware and pretty accessories.
79 OPEN-AIR COOKING Choosing an outdoor kitchen to make the most of entertaining in the summer sunshine.
86 PIZZA AL FRESCO Our pick of the best outdoor pizza ovens.
88 SERIES ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF AN ENGLISH HOME – INTRODUCING ART Add character, depth and interest with considered placing of art.
96 CHILD’S PLAY Decorating children’s rooms with a balance of practicality and creative ingenuity.
Living The Season
107 RASPBERRY ICE CREAM A quick and easy summer treat.
108 IN TUNE WITH NATURE Making the most of July by catching sight of kingfishers, enjoying seasonal fruit and vegetables, and picking delphiniums to display.
114 ESSENTIAL CORNWALL Our guide to this fascinating county’s attractions, from its beautiful beaches and sub-tropical gardens to its top-notch restaurants, art galleries and more.
124 UNIQUE GETAWAYS Take a break from the everyday with our selection of one-off English retreats, including a grand castle, a lakeside yurt and a restored windmill.
130 MY ENGLISH HOME Donna Air on why she loves living in her stylishly converted tractor barn in the Cotswolds.
A letter from home
Hello! And a very warm welcome from me, Alison Davidson, the new Editor of The English Home. I am so happy to be here – The English Home is my idea of the perfect magazine!
Inspiring interiors, the latest discoveries in the design world, captivating houses to harvest ideas from, and all with a classic, timeless feel. I also love delving into the history behind some of our favourite brands, English companies flying the flag for craftsmanship coveted the world over and innovative design that transcends fashion. Our rich design heritage continues to evolve and inspire and we want to share it with you.
I’ve long admired The English Home from afar, so join you as a reader. Perhaps a bit about me would be useful: I live in Surrey, in a house built in 1930, with my two grown-up daughters and a very naughty beagle. I have worked in interiors magazines for 30 years, both freelance and on staff for various titles. Interiors truly are my passion, so I get to do my dream job on a daily basis!
In this issue we share some wonderful ideas for outdoor entertaining, including our buyer’s guide to outdoor kitchens and the latest pizza ovens – all ready for a summer spent outside. And we have a feature on decorating children’s rooms, including expert comment on how to make the most of these spaces – there are so many fun ways to make these rooms unique, no matter what age the children are.
I do hope you will continue to indulge your passion for English style along with me.
Alison Davidson, Editor
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EDITORIAL
Editor Alison Davidson
Managing Editor Sarah Feeley
Art Editors Andrea Lynch, Rebecca Stead
Sub Editor Lea Tacey
Decorating Editor Katy Mclean
Features Editor Suzanna Le Grove
Houses Researcher Charlotte Dunford
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THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 1468-0238 (PRINT) THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 2397-7086 (ONLINE)
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Timber windows
Naturally beautiful, our award-winning timber windows and doors are the logical choice. Constructed from engineered timber slow grown in cold climates, their strength, stability and beauty are guaranteed.
Whether your home is a country cottage, a Victorian semi, a modern townhouse or a converted barn, we have a range of traditional and contemporary timber windows and doors that will complement it perfectly.
Our collection has been carefully and sensitively tailored to complement the English home. Unlike timber windows of old, our products will not twist, will not rot and require very little maintenance. High levels of insulation and security ensure there is no need to sacrifice beauty for comfort.
With a15% discount off all windows & doors in our Summer Sale, explore the range in 52 showrooms nationwide.
NOTEBOOK
SPOTLIGHT ON…
Moro Dabron’s first furniture, fabric and lighting collection
Having launched their business in 2020 with a set of scented candles in sculptural, Constance Spry-inspired vessels, design duo Austin Moro and Eliza Dabron of Moro Dabron are now delighted to unveil their debut collection of furniture, lighting and fabric, all many years in the making.
Inspired by British artist Howard Hodgkin’s work and his studio in Bloomsbury, the restrained designs speak of past and present, and are suited to both contemporary and period settings. The furniture, lighting and accessories collection includes two sofas, an armchair, two pendant lights and a table lamp, a traditionally woven rug, and a solid brass hook.
The Cloth fabrics (see page 22) comprise eight plains, a thick twill stripe, and a ticking design in two colourways – Pear and Terracotta – hand-blocked with polka dots in a time-honoured technique. moro-dabron.com
PEOPLE PLACES
&
Covetable new launches by talented makers and elite brands, creative collaborations, landmark anniversaries and unmissable events
FEATURE SARAH FEELEY
Joy by Design: The Dulce Collection
New Bert & May tiles designed by Elisa Passino
The power of design to evoke joy when someone walks into a room is the mission of Italian-born and Portugal-based designer Elisa Passino, exemplified by The Dulce Collection of tiles she has created for Bert & May. Featuring two patterns and four rich colourways, the bold geometrics are infused with the delicious hues of patisserie glazes, adding warmth, playfulness and an artistic sensibility to interiors. bertandmay.com
Honed for Decades
Paint & wallpaper by Laura
Hammett
Decades of experience as an interior designer have gone into Laura Hammett’s first paint and wallpaper collection. The 36 paint colours and three wallpaper designs, each available in four sophisticated colourways, have been meticulously designed to harmonise.
The British-made paints are safe for children and pets, and along with the new wallpapers, embody Laura’s signature style – timeless, elegant and made to last.
Scentsational Pairings
Jo Malone London x Little Greene
A new special edition candle collaboration pairs five Jo Malone London scents with Little Greene paints and prints to imbue different atmospheres in the home, whether setting an inviting or sensual mood, to unwind, energise or comfort. Shared values and an appreciation of British craftsmanship brought these two brands together. jomalone.co.uk; littlegreene.com
Laura and her husband Aaron co-founded their interior design studio in 2008, and she launched homeware brand Laura Hammett Living in 2023. laurahammettliving.com
Neatsmith: Timeless Designs Crafted in England
The bespoke fitted furniture company celebrates its 20th anniversary
Risk plays a pivotal role in the origin story of most successful businesses – and Neatsmith is no exception.
Moving his family to England from South Africa, where he had been in the clothing trade, then working in the financial markets until business moved from the trading floor to computer screens, Andrew Nagel yearned to return to retail and involve his sons, Philipp and Matthew.
After Andrew had some wardrobes fitted at home – and spotted a gap in the market – he and his sons founded Neatsmith in 2005. ‘It was a big risk,’ remembers Philipp, ‘as none of us had any safety net or money behind us; maybe enough to last four to five months if it didn’t work.’
Their risk paid off. Still owned and run by the Nagel family 20 years later, and with three factories in Hertfordshire, Neatsmith has made a name for itself designing, manufacturing and installing bespoke fitted furniture. From bedrooms, dressing rooms and walk-in wardrobes to sitting rooms, home offices and playrooms, its work emphasises timeless design, handcrafted quality and impeccable service.
‘We are proud to say our product is made in the UK,’ Philipp adds. ‘It might
not be the most commercial decision, but it gives us control over our product and processes. From the first day, the family agreed that the quality of the product should always be matched, and even exceeded by, the company’s level of service. We had – and have – a simple ethos: if people were happy with our product, price and service, they would recommend Neatsmith to their friends and families, which would lead our business to grow.’
Father and sons worked side by side for several years before Andrew retired in 2022, and now Philipp and Matthew (pictured left) successfully run the business together, opening Neatsmith’s seventh showroom, in Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent, in September.
All of Neatsmith’s wooden panels come from a Forest Stewardship Councilcertified UK supplier prioritising sustainable forestry, and the company uses manufacturing offcuts to heat its factories.
Philipp describes the company’s 20th anniversary as ‘a great feeling. The talent, passion and perseverance of our team is the backbone to our longevity, and we look forward to the next series of decades’. neatsmith.co.uk
Unprecedented Access to V&A Collections & Archive
The newly opened vast V&A East Storehouse offers many world firsts
One of the most culturally significant openings so far this year, the newly opened, free visitor attraction, V&A East Storehouse in London, has been purpose-built to provide unprecedented access to the V&A’s collections and archives. It encompasses over half a million works spanning every era, creative discipline and corner of the globe.
Presented over four levels, and bigger than 30 basketball courts, this warehouse-style space represents a new kind of museum experience,
Potted History: Spode
Historic collection back on display
Thousands of pieces of Spode pottery spanning 200 years are now back on public display after 17 years.
More than 20,000 ceramic pieces and 40,000 engraved copper plates, as well as archive photographs, are now on show at The Spode Museum, which recently reopened on the company’s original site in Stoke-on-Trent.
The collection tells the story of this iconic English brand and the generations of skilled and dedicated craftspeople who contributed so pivotally to its success. spodemuseumtrust.org
and is home to over 250,000 objects, 350,000 library books and 1,000 archives from the V&A’s many historic collections.
A world-first in size, scale and ambition, the Storehouse also offers the V&A’s revolutionary Order an Object experience, which allows anyone to book to see any object, seven days a week.
Part of East Bank, the new cultural quarter in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, self-guided tours and changing displays invite visitors behind the scenes. vam.ac.uk/east
Bloomsbury Reborn
New hotel interiors by Georgie Wykeham
While seeking inspiration for the interiors of The Alfriston hotel, which recently opened on the South Downs, Georgie Wykeham looked to The Bloomsbury Group, whose strong connections with the area influenced hand-painted ceilings, one-of-akind antique pieces and upcycled furniture. Warm, playful hues evoke a joyful celebration of colour, pattern and design throughout. thealfriston.com
DIARY
Liberty 150th anniversary event UNTIL 25 JULY
To mark Liberty’s 150-year anniversary, the in-store exhibition I am. We Are. invites visitors to delve into the Liberty archive of more than 60,000 pattern books, paintings and drawings collated since the 1880s. libertylondon.com
Open-air ballet in Wiltshire 25–27 JULY
Some of the greatest dancers from the most prestigious ballet companies in the world will perform in Ballet Under The Stars in the romantic 17th-century walled garden at Hatch House in Wiltshire. coventgardendance.com
Garden inspiration at Hampton Court 1–6 JULY
King Henry VIII’s former home will host RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival the first week in July, with crafted gardens, scented displays in the Floral Marquee, expert talks, exclusive shopping and a Festival of Roses. rhs.org.uk
Art Deco centenary events at Claridge’s ALL YEAR
Claridge’s celebrates the centenary of Art Deco with a year-long celebration of the Roaring Twenties and a series of Bright Young Things experiences, from behind-the-scenes tours to Charleston classes and more. claridges.co.uk n
TRULY BESPOKE
AWARD-WINNING DESIGN AND INSTALLATION
DESIGN DISCOVERIES
Update and elevate contemporary room schemes with layers of interest, from classic motifs reimagined for current interior styles to textured details offering tactile depth
FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVE
NEUTRAL EXPRESSION
To capture the sought-after combination of neutral fabrics in tactile weaves that draw the eye, Moro Dabron’s first linen edit is a celebration of gentle tones and textures. The versatile plains and softly patterned fabrics are suitable for a wide variety of applications, from curtains to upholstery.
Cloth linen collection, from £65 a metre, Moro Dabron
DECORATIVE EDGE
Installing wooden carvings and mouldings is an easy way to transform a scheme by instantly imbuing character. Designers often use carvings to guide the eye towards a doorway sight line. This hand-carved example is suitable for interior trims or to create bespoke furniture. It can also be used on exterior features to subtly link to interior mouldings. Waterleaf & Bobbin strip moulding, £49.50 for 200cm, Decora Mouldings
PATTERNS AT PLAY
Colourful dappled glasses and striped placemats bring this tablescape to life. Co-ordinate with seasonal blooms to add a considered feel to the dining table. Multi Dappled glasses, £48 for a set of four; Provence Green Stripe placemat, £84 for a set of four, Maison Margaux
NATURAL WALLS
Tess Newall’s latest wallpaper collection includes this Herbarium Forest design, which features English woodland ferns, daisies and wild garlic. The handpainted print is available on blush and ivory wash backgrounds. Alternatively, for a more contemporary scheme, it can be printed onto grasscloth, as seen here. Created from natural sisal fibres the surface has a unique raised finish. Herbarium Grasscloth wallpaper, £695 an 8m roll, made to order, Tess Newall
FLORAL STUDIES
Renowned for its luxurious designs, de Gournay is launching a new hand-painted porcelain (see page 112) and wallpaper range paying homage to horticulturalist, gardener and art collector Rachel ‘Bunny’ Lambert Mellon. Its Florilegium wallpaper from the collection captures an artistic scene of botanical paintings, which would be an inspiring backdrop for a creative workspace and layering interest on a feature wall.
Florilegium wallpaper, around £1,811 a 915mm-wide panel, de Gournay
ADJUSTABLE CABINET
Storage furniture in garden rooms and conservatories often needs to be in keeping with lighter materials and colourways. To work with a light and bright scheme, this wooden cabinet has rattan doors and is painted in an off-white tint. For practicality, the interior has three adjustable shelves so the storage areas can be tailored to individual requirements.
White Rattan display cabinet, £1,995, Cox & Cox
CRAFTED TEXTILES
This charming suzani throw is traditionally crafted by Indian artisans in Jaipur. The multipurpose style is designed to be versatile for year-round use. In summer, the lightweight fabric can be used outdoors; come autumn, the throw is large enough to easily drape across a bed for an extra layer of warmth.
Amrapali Suzani throw, £285; Ciculo block-print cushion, £79; Bel napkins, £38.50 for a set of four, Birdie Fortescue
A CLASSIC REIMAGINED
The repeated motif on this Poppi wallpaper evokes a nostalgic mood, while the plain background speaks of a crisper modern look – resulting in a floral wallpaper that feels current yet timeless. The design comes in five colourways (offered on a plain background or four striped options).
Poppi Mini Ochre wallpaper, £120 a roll, Peony & Sage
TAKING COVER
Head out in confidence for a summer picnic in the garden or further afield with a practical ground cover that is suitable for handling any inclement weather. For example, this Wild Floral blanket, featuring Sophie Allport’s latest illustrations, is said to be totally waterproof and has a carry strap for easy transportation on foot.
Wild Floral picnic blanket, £53, Sophie Allport
GROUNDING EFFECT
Contrast modern furnishings, fixtures and fittings with a traditional style of floor tile to help offset contemporary pieces. These tumbled limestone tiles have mineral and fossil details to create an interesting patina. The tiles also come in a larger format, and they can be used indoors and outdoors in multiple laying patterns.
Dijon tumbled herringbone tiles, from £75.60 a square metre, Quorn Stone n
EASY-BREEZY BLUES & WHITES
Playing with different scales of patterns in a classic combination of light-to-mid blues and soft whites creates a relaxed summer mood
Porcelain Blue (above) and Flanders Blue (below), £45 for 2.5l Chalky Emulsion, Craig
& Rose
Moonlight White paint, from £20.75 for 0.94l, Benjamin Moore
Bejmat tiles in Lavender and White, £138 a square metre, Otto Tiles
Sunflower border in Blue, £40, Fiona Howard Wallpapers
Fig napkin, £60 for four, and tablecloth, £125, Daydress x Scribble & Daub
Avenida Home Blue Story small tray, £36, Fortnum & Mason
Melbury stoneware storage jar, from £29 (small), Neptune
Azul Stripe mirror, £135, Oliver Bonas
Blue Leaves round tray, £39, Not Just A Shop
Alice Modern Chinese Blue-andWhite Delft vase, £220, Casa by JJ
Studio Stripe tablecloth in Mist, £54.50, Ian Mankin
Small tumblers in Aquatic/ White and Blue/White Stripe, £38 each, Nina Campbell
Anna + Nina Scalloped Blue Stripe dinner plate, £24.95, Domestic Science
Blue-and-white mug by 1882 Ltd, £16.50, V&A Shop
SALAD DAYS
Serve up sensational light lunches and side dishes using bowls and platters in designs to suit all tastes
Blue & White Galaxy fruit bowl, £125, Henry Holland
Lemon on Teal large bowl, £85, Judy Caplin Ceramics at Handmade in Britain
Raspberry Celia platter, £89, Rebecca Udall,
Limone bowl, £22, Sweetpea & Willow
Burnt Orange salad bowl, £45, Hot Pottery
Purer Home x Eden Project serve platter, £40, Pure Table Top
Fish serving plate, £25, Cox & Cox
Blue Splash large serving bowl, £72.95, Graham and Green
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew stoneware salad bowl, £28, John Lewis & Partners
Vegetable Garden Tomatoes medium pasta bowl, £27, Emma Bridgewater
Limoni Salad bowl with handles, £205, Artemest
Heikki stoneware bowl, £89, Att Pynta
Horezu Romanian Rooster extra large plate, £45, Casa De Folklore xMimmo Studios
Wild Berries large serving bowl, £85, So Souk
CRAFTY DESIGNS
Having mastered the ancient skill of steam bending wood, Tom Raffield has become synonymous with his wooden lighting and furniture designs, which are epitomised by the curves and twists that this technique affords. Time-consuming but rewarding, it requires no chemicals or additives, just a talent for handcrafted design and a respectful nod to the past.
Tom says: ‘Sustainability isn’t a choice – it’s our starting point for how we approach every element of each design. We craft with conscience, using steam, not strain, to shape nature into timeless lights our customers will love for years.’ tomraffield.com
THE EDIT
Make it an architectural and sculptural summer with buildings, lighting and garden ornaments to enhance life at home all year round
A STATELY AFFAIR
We have all dreamed of living in our own Jane Austen-worthy grand country house from time to time, and for those lucky enough to have the land and opportunity to do so, Adam Architecture can make those dreams come true.
Specialising in classical and traditional architecture, the firm, which has offices in London and (fittingly enough) Winchester – Jane Austen’s final resting place – can help breathe new life into period homes or design brand-new buildings that honour and reflect the local landscape and historic context.
Knowledgeable of heritage restrictions and respectful of a property’s historic character, there is little drama when it comes to these period experts.
adamarchitecture.com
BRIGHTER EVENINGS
Architectural details brand Corston used this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show to launch its new collection of beautiful and functional outdoor lights for when days outside drift into evening.
The new garden lighting range pays homage to some of the UK’s most iconic regions, and the 27 products are all designed and developed at the firm’s Wiltshire headquarters. The Cambridge, with its adjustable height, is as elegant and timeless as its namesake city, while the Kensington gives a subtle nod to traditional nautical design.
With a new space in the prestigious Design Centre in Chelsea Harbour and a showroom opening on London’s Pimlico Road later this summer, it is now possible to shop the range in person. corston.com
IN THE FRAME
For an extension in keeping with surroundings and existing architecture, try British firm Prime Oak’s beautiful oak-framed buildings, which will enhance the look of a home, whether seeking to add a garden room, annexe, or even an orangery.
Made from seasoned oak that is air-dried over several years, each customised structure is handcrafted at the company’s workshops by expert builders, with an integrity made to last.
Visit Prime Oak’s website for upcoming open days across the company’s show sites in Hampshire, Chipping Norton, and Staffordshire, and start planning a bespoke project today. primeoak.co.uk n
CORNISH CHARM
If seeking to add a little ‘Kernow’ (Cornish for Cornwall) character to the garden this summer, consider these playful steel sculptures by Wow Cornwall, designed and handmade in the South West and inspired by the native wildlife found in the area.
There are a range of designs to choose from, from the Folkland Hedgehog to a busy bumble bee, several butterflies – even a pair of charming love birds – all of which could not fail to raise a smile among friends and family while enjoying a cool drink in the garden.
Made of steel that develops a natural rusty patina, not only will these new friends look right at home in the garden, but they will age well too. wowcornwall.co.uk
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INDIVIDUAL & AUTHENTIC
Finding unusual pieces at Lots Road Auctions is the perfect way to style a home full of personality
Creating individual, considered and curated interiors is one of the joys of homeowning. One of the best ways to do this is to buy one-off pieces that no-one else has, and where better to search for such treasures than at Lots Road Auctions, which, with a showroom spanning nearly 30,000 square feet since its move to the iconic Piper Centre in Fulham, is one of the single largest auction sites in the country.
Buying at auction is a great way to find unique, affordable and high-quality pieces that can be admired and enjoyed for years to come. What is more, knowing each piece of furniture, artwork, lamp or rug has a history, adds depth and a timeless quality in a home, and being able to learn the provenance of an item only adds to the pleasure. As well as being one of the best ways to create a truly individual home, buying at auction is also highly sustainable.
Since 1979, Lots Road Auctions has offered a carefully chosen mix of antiques and contemporary items. Every day there is something new to discover – whether it is works of art, antique furniture or vintage lighting, there is a wide choice to suit all tastes. Live sales are held regularly, while the recently launched Carousel online auctions feature hundreds of beautiful items to browse and bid on each day. Themed and specialist auctions are also held throughout the year.
Buying at auction is the perfect way to furnish a home from one place. It is also time-saving, removing the need to visit individual shops. The excitement, and convenience of being able to bid, buy and take something home the same day is a joy. Putting that prize gem in place in a room on the day it is bought is so satisfying. n
To find out more, visit lotsroad.com
ABOVE The Fine Interiors Auction on 6 July features fine paintings, antique and contemporary furniture, and more.
LEFT Visit Lots Road’s website to peruse its new Carousel online auction offering.
BELOW Lots Road Auctions has been a firm favourite with stylists and collectors for over 45 years.
THIS PAGE The kitchen’s existing cabinetry was still in excellent condition, so Nadine had it professionally sprayed in Sage Green from Little Greene. Changing the island worktop to oak and adding rugs from Ministry of Rugs has introduced layers of visual warmth.
OPPOSITE Nadine, a former PR professional, retrained as an interior designer and founded her practice, Decurate Interiors, in 2018. Visit decurateinteriors.com to see more of her work.
LAYER upon LAYER
Creating character with hand-picked vintage finds and meaningful pieces is core to Nadine Finnegan’s design ethos, beautifully illustrated in the home she has created with her husband Angus in this 19th-century barn conversion in Warwickshire FEATURE KERRYN HARPER-CUSS PHOTOGRAPHY BOZ GAGOVSKI
Situated at the centre of the ground floor, the kitchen/diner is an inviting gathering space. The table and benches were from Fenwick, Nadine had the bench cushions made in Avon Check by Ian Mankin with a red trim from Pear & Pavilion. She found the antique wrought-iron floor lamp online and added a shade from Birdie Fortescue.
‘Blending vintage with new sets a lovely balance in interiors and helps to make a home feel unique, curated, and evolved over time’
There are many routes to making a home.
Some owners take on dramatic restorations while others embark on self-build projects to achieve uniquely tailored spaces. For Nadine Finnegan and her husband Angus, however, finding a house with history and melding its story with their own felt like the most fulfilling and personal way to start a new chapter when leaving London for a calmer country life.
As lovers of lateral living and light-filled spaces, the couple set out to find a barn to buy. Their early 19th-century former farm building, situated in a village near Shipston-on-Stour in Warwickshire, was very nearly ‘the one that got away’. When the pretty, traditional brick conversion went on sale in 2022 it immediately became the focus of a 12-way bidding war. Although Nadine and Angus were initially pipped to the post, serendipity stepped in and five months later, when the three-bedroom property unexpectedly came back to market, their match was made.
As a professional designer running her own studio, Decurate Interiors, Nadine can turn her skills to any aesthetic, but her preference is to create deeply
comfortable spaces filled with meaningful art and antiques. ‘I’m all about “the cosy home”. I don’t do sterile spaces,’ she explains. ‘I think rooms should exude warmth; I love colour and layering and I’m a believer in an 80-20 approach. Blending 80 per cent vintage with 20 per cent new sets a lovely balance in interiors and helps to make a home feel unique, curated, and evolved over time.’
Her ethos is quickly apparent in her home. The property already had a welcoming layout, with the kitchen at its centre, but it was ripe for a design refresh. Nadine sensitively planned the redecoration of every room, reimagining rather than ripping out core fixtures and fittings before introducing character with colour, textiles and vintage finds. ‘It’s important, I think, to see what you can do with what you already have so that nothing that could be beautiful or useful ends up in a skip,’ she says.
To this end, she had the original sitting room floor sanded to give it a light, fresh facelift. Terracotta tiles throughout the rest of the ground floor were also transformed with a deep clean and professional polish. The former blue-painted kitchen units were custom
ABOVE LEFT The stable door leads from the home office into the barn’s secluded country garden. Curtaining, ceramics and antiques fill the space with charm.
ABOVE RIGHT
Cladding the hallway with tongue and groove was a labour of love but transformed the uninspiring space, which is painted in Tingry – an archived colour from Edward Bulmer Natural Paint. The bench is a meaningful family piece, originally salvaged in Ireland by Angus’s late mother.
‘With any well-curated space the aim is to set the scene of how you wish to live’
spray-painted in smart sage green, and the existing island was updated with a new oak worktop and a Neff hob, which makes an energy-efficient alternative to the Aga during the summer months.
Although the kitchen had to be completely emptied during this refinishing process, meaning that the couple had to move out for several months, the results were well worth the disruption. ‘The footprint of the original kitchen was perfect for our needs, and we were happy to have saved a wonderfully crafted kitchen from landfill,’ Nadine says.
When it came to adding character with furnishings and accessories, Nadine’s skill in sourcing antique and vintage pieces came to the fore. ‘I was an early adopter of shopping online – it is something I love, and I do think it’s a skill that you can hone,’ she reveals. ‘I’ve found I have an aptitude for being able to accurately picture the visual scale of pieces in a room – often the bigger an item is the better it is to create that big moment in a room – and so far I’ve never had to send a piece back. I also encourage my clients to enjoy physical browsing. I know this can sometimes feel quite intimidating, but you don’t have to go to very exclusive antiques shops, and antiques fairs and auctions can be great hunting grounds.’
Finds for her home include the striking, hand-carved Indonesian cabinet in her home office, French bedside tables, coffee and occasional tables, a beautiful, framed vintage Hermès scarf and a great many pieces of art, including lithographic prints that cost just £20. ‘A home is nothing without art, but I’m not an art snob and I don’t subscribe to matching your art to your scheme,’ says Nadine. ‘I don’t always know where I’m going to put something when I buy it. If you love a piece and it speaks to you, you will find a place for it.’
She continues, ‘I’ve made good friends with my framer and am guided by instinct when I arrange things on the walls. I love helping clients source art, sometimes months or even years after working on their homes.’
Pride of place is given to several pieces of art by Angus’s mother – Wendy Finnegan. Nadine cherishes these as much as Angus does because they offer a
RIGHT Nadine encouraged Angus to choose a piece of furniture to set the tone for the sitting room and he fell for a patinated coffee table from Indigo Antiques in Wiltshire. The sofa from Soho Home is dressed with cushions in an Ian Mankin stripe, Salvesen Graham x Sanderson’s Pinetum Stripe in Mulberry, and Osborne & Little’s Kazak. The ikat lampshades came from La Corallina Firenze and the kilim rug from A Touch of Dust in Shipston-on-Stour.
strong connection to her mother-in-law, who passed away before they had a chance to meet. An antique bench in the hall is another sentimental piece, salvaged by Wendy during a visit to Ireland. Its thoughtful position makes it the first thing seen when entering the front door.
Although the couple’s home looks, and indeed is, beautifully and fully furnished, Nadine continues to find pleasure in adding and moving things around. ‘I believe our homes are ever evolving, although with any well-curated space, the aim is to ultimately set the scene of how you wish to live. Then, rather like with a stage, from time to time you get to move those pieces about, swapping in and out the pieces that you love. As you get to know a home it starts to tell you, if you listen to it, what suits each room, and this is a dialogue I am not sure is ever completely finished. I tell Angus it is a designer’s occupational prerogative to keep gently refining and refreshing,’ she laughs. n
ABOVE Modern and vintage combine effortlessly in the principal bedroom. The blind in a plain from Linwood is embellished with Colefax and Fowler’s Arlington wide braid in Leaf Green to tie in with the 18th-century sofa from Lillie Road in Fulham, which has been reupholstered in Marldon Check in Green/Beige, also from Colefax and Fowler.
LEFT The landing is a characterful space to pass through, with kilim runners from Ministry of Rugs and an antique Hungarian wooden bench sourced from Burford Antiques, above which hangs a framed vintage Hermès scarf.
Design for LIVING
Interior designer John Wright has remodelled his Hastings house to make the most of its vantage point overlooking the sea as well as to display his much-loved collection of art and antiques
FEATURE AMANDA HARLING
PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL
The steps are his design, made by Michael Westgate.
THIS PAGE The pair of capacious William Yeoward armchairs and matching footstool are upholstered in a sunny yellow Nobilis linen, adding bright splashes of colour to the sitting room. The sofa is covered in Guerande, a grey weave, also by Nobilis. Decorative artist Marina Hughes decorated the chimney breast with a waxed finish. OPPOSITE John in the library.
ABOVE Taking centre stage on the wall at one end of the sitting room is an impressive portrait of Janey Ironside, a professor of fashion at the Royal College of Art, painted by Thomas Cantrell Dugdale.
RIGHT The monochromatic kitchen and dining area includes a classic white Atollo table lamp designed by Vico Magistretti in 1977 and a steel Flos Splügen Bräu ceiling pendant. Daylight flows down from glass panels inset into the ceiling above the row of Jean Cocteau plates.
‘The house reflects my eclectic taste for design of different periods and styles’
The lure of a view has prompted many a house move. For some years, home for John Wright and his partner Bayley John Carter, known as John, who has sadly since died, had been a charming neo-classical house with farreaching views across Hastings. ‘But as much as we loved that house, the fact that we were within walking distance of the sea yet couldn’t see it was frustrating,’ says John. ‘Over the years, peering through binoculars, we’d worked out which properties had the best view and in due course one of them, a bungalow, came up for sale. Although the building itself was nothing special, the site had the view we wanted.’ The bungalow was bought.
As an interior designer with a strong interest in architecture, John had long hankered after the opportunity to design and build a house for himself. ‘I had to adhere to planning restrictions as to height,’ he explains, ‘and the footprint had to remain that of the bungalow and the adjoining garage, but I managed to create a first floor, which I knew would give us a spectacular view of the sea, framed on either side by Hasting’s East and West Hills.’
Once the couple had sold their former house, they found a rental to live in while the planning, demolition and construction process was underway. ‘Our nice landlady said she’d have to have the place repainted before we could move in, but I suggested that she put it off until after we left so that I could hang my collection of paintings and prints without fear of damaging the walls,’ John recalls. ‘Happily, she agreed, so in we moved, the pictures were hung and we instantly felt much more comfortable in our temporary home.’
A collector of prints, paintings and sculpture since his 20s, John continues to add to his collection, although wall space is now limited for anything much larger than a postcard. ‘Hastings is full of antique shops and galleries, and I have a look at online auctions at Burstow & Hewitt in nearby Battle.’
John says wryly that he ‘designed the house so that from the street it resembles an electricity substation. I wanted it to be as unremarkable as possible.’ While the front door and a second door from the utility room are the only features in the otherwise blank facade facing the street, the facade facing the sea is a complete contrast, with expansive windows on all levels.
The layout of the ground floor incorporates an open-plan kitchen, dining and seating area, and, on a
ABOVE Visual impact on the landing comes from a series of aquatints by William Daniell 1769–1837, which were bought already framed. Fortuitously they fitted into the space and are complemented by a pair of 17th-century Indo-Dutch chairs bought in London.
RIGHT Timeless blue-and-white striped cushions top the Indian wooden seat and red-painted chairs in the outdoor dining area, which is screened from the street by a tall hedge of jasmine and pyracantha.
ABOVE William Tillyer’s framed illustrations for Joris-Karl Huysmann’s novel Against Nature are displayed along the wall above a pair of Indian colonial chairs and a chest of drawers made by Michael Westgate to a design by John, carved using an adze to give it a textured finish.
LEFT Prints, plates and paintings jostle for wall space in the main bathroom. An art deco-style basin and sleek chrome fittings throughout keep the mood pared-back and serene.
slightly lower level, John’s spacious library and study, where he writes and draws at an elegant cross-base table. A compact guest bedroom and bathroom lie across the hall, lit by a tall window overlooking the garden.
The main living area was designed so that the kitchen is very much part of it and adjacent to a rectangular dining table. ‘My partner loved cooking, but in the old house he hated being stuck in the kitchen, away from all the action whenever we entertained. Here he wanted to be in the thick of it,’ John explains. The sitting room is flooded with light from the floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto the south-facing terrace outside. Apart from the panoramic view, the focal point is the chimney breast painted in a subtle finish of darkest grey, flanked on either side by paintings by William Tillyer, an old friend of John’s from their student days at Middlesbrough School of Art.
‘Initially, I was encouraged by my ancient art teacher at grammar school, who noticed that I was always scribbling houses and furniture,’ John says. ‘I went on to Middlesbrough School of Art, where my tutor said I should apply to the Royal College of Art, so I left for London at the age of 19 to study in the Interior Design school under Sir Hugh Casson. Architectural drawing was a new skill which I had to learn pretty quickly, but
‘I managed to create a first floor, which I knew would give a spectacular view of the sea’
I was so determined to get on and the 1960s were an exciting time to be in London.’
At one end of the sitting room, beneath a strikingly beautiful portrait of Janey Ironside, a professor of fashion at the Royal College of Art, is an unusual dining table, the centrepiece of which is a circular panel of antique pietra dura. ‘I designed the base and a circular surround for it, which was made in Norfolk by Michael Westgate, who makes all the furniture I design, whether for my clients or for myself.’
Upstairs in the principal bedroom, sliding glass doors allow access to the south-facing balcony and that all-important sea view. John points out that, ‘The ceiling height had to be low on the first floor in order to comply with the planning restrictions.’
Notwithstanding this, the sense of light and space is remarkable, with diaphanous full-length white curtains adding to the luminous effect. An adzed chest in limed oak, made by Michael Westgate to John’s design ‘in homage to Jean-Michel Frank’, a French designer of the 1920s and 30s, is framed by a pair of bobbin chairs.
As John says, ‘The house reflects my eclectic taste for design of different periods and styles.’ The contents may be eclectic, but they are arranged with the meticulous attention to detail that John applies to every aspect of design and decoration – the finished result is ordered and packed with visual interest. ■
ABOVE Glass sliding doors open onto the terrace outside the principal bedroom and the enviable view which prompted the move. A clear glass balustrade is barely perceptible.
RIGHT An alabaster bowl ceiling lamp establishes the period look in the ground floor guest bedroom with walls hung with paintings and prints mainly from the early to mid 1900s.
THIS PAGE & OPPOSITE
The new black-painted extension adjoins the original 16th-century stone cottage. Crittall-style doors connect the living area seamlessly to the expansive terrace. The shepherd’s hut by Arbor Shepherd’s Huts provided a welcome bolthole during the renovation.
Reimagined BAKERY
A deep respect for time-worn materials, authentic processes and a love of home are at the heart of designer Bee Osborn’s journey with this 16th-century cottage
FEATURE & STYLING ALI HEATH
PHOTOGRAPHY BRENT DARBY
‘I wanted it to feel nurturing and comforting, and uplifting and welcoming when full of family and friends’
Bee Osborn’s passion for old buildings and interior design has spanned nearly four decades, with nine renovations of her own and countless client and boutique hotel projects. Her name has become synonymous with the natural and muted, and, in the UK, with the transformation of historic Cotswold cottages.
‘Preserving the heart of these special villages is important to me. If they are not looked after, they will disappear,’ says Bee.
Built in the mid-1500s, The Old Bakery had been left to decay, as the previous owners had sadly moved into residential care. Discovered by chance as a result of a road diversion, Bee inadvertently drove through a less
ABOVE LEFT Bee in one of the cosy nooks she has created in the deep window recesses.
ABOVE RIGHT
The layered lighting includes Porta Romana lamps on the kitchen island.
LEFT Reclaimedwood panelling, natural textures and artisanal finishes add to the pared-back yet inviting aesthetic.
In the living and kitchen space, the television is cleverly inset behind a wall hanging above the fireplace.
‘It was important we had space to sit, eat and relax together, and for the bedrooms to feel like private escapes with their own bathrooms’
ABOVE LEFT Steps leading down from the original cottage to the new extension, where Crittall-style doors lead on to the terrace.
ABOVE RIGHT The roll-top bath in the principal bedroom heightens the feeling of comfort. The painting above the wood-burning stove is from Art Untamed.
OPPOSITE The roof and thatch were restored by Bee to create a luxurious guest retreat in the original cottage.
well-known Cotswold village and spotted a ‘For sale’ sign. Curiosity piqued, she could not resist looking: ‘Clearly falling down, the two-up-two-down cottage was hidden by voracious brambles, but was on a plot with huge potential.’ A few weeks later, heart full, papers signed and with a buyer for her former home, work commenced – and despite arduous planning delays, she completed the transformation within 15 months.
During the build, Bee lived in a customised shepherd’s hut, craned in at the start of the project, to avoid expensive rental costs and to be on site to make decisions. Complete with a wood-burning stove, kitchen, shower and outdoor bathing area, the hut was a lifesaver during the build. No longer surrounded by mud, it is set in its own wild meadow garden, nestled next to the cottage and is now a fourth bedroom for one of her girls or guest retreat for friends.
The starting point for the renovation was how it would feel. ‘I wanted the cottage to feel nurturing and comforting for myself and my partner; and to
feel uplifting and welcoming when full of visiting family and friends,’ says Bee. ‘With three daughters (two now married), it was important to me that we had space to all sit, eat and relax comfortably together, and for the bedrooms to feel like private escapes with their own bathrooms.’
Doubling the original 93-square-metre space, a series of dilapidated garden buildings were reimagined and now connect with the old cottage via contemporary, wood-clad elevations, which sit within the parameters of the original stone structure. Excavating down two metres, a retaining wall was created along the boundary, laying the foundations for a lofty living room. Framed by Crittall-style doors, the space leads out to a sunken terrace, where comfy furniture adapts easily as a place to sunbathe, rest or dine, surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden, and Bee’s favourite ‘Annabelle’ hydrangeas.
Inside, walls clad in reclaimed wood, dressed in compelling art, have added a warm, earthy edge to
LEFT & BELOW Designed internally by Bee, the cocooning shepherd’s hut is now a guest retreat, complete with outdoor bathtub.
‘The new materials honour the integrity of the cottage, but with a high-low balance of original, expensive and more affordable’
the main living area, while an inviting sofa and wood-burning stove make it a place where the family loves to hang out. ‘I am at my happiest sharing a meal, or enjoying time with my family, so it was important to me that the kitchen and dining area link seamlessly to this space and the garden – you feel very connected to each other and nature,’ Bee explains.
‘In the original cottage, deep window recesses have been turned into cosy reading nooks,’ continues Bee. ‘I love the architectural details in the snug – the 16th-century mullion windows, worn beams and open fireplace make it feel very cosseting.’
Throughout, old stone walls have been lovingly brought back to life and are offset by wall finishes in soft lime plaster and reclaimed-wood cladding, which adds to the calming, tactile appeal. ‘I wanted the new materials to honour the integrity of the cottage, but with a high-low balance of original, expensive and more affordable,’ says Bee. ‘I am a great believer in
making budgets work hard, and by installing simple painted floorboards, I have been able to afford timeless, special brass tapware, which brings me joy every time I touch it.’
Upstairs in the main house, previously cold and draughty vaulted bedrooms have been upgraded to be thermally efficient and cosy; and the creation of a principal suite in the new extension has enabled Bee to create a private sanctuary. Layered, textural finds highlight Bee’s appreciation of the beautiful and natural and add to the feeling of warmth and character. There are artisanal tables, handmade seagrass lights, weathered timber furniture, woven baskets, beaded sculptures and abundant textiles –many from her collaboration with print designer Zoe Glencross.
‘I always believe if you can see something in your mind, you can create it with your hands. It’s been a labour of love, but we feel very at home here.’ n
FURTHER READING
Cocoon: Creating Homes with Heart by Ali Heath, £30, Mitchell Beazley
POISED PERFECTION
Having enjoyed a rich and diverse history, this handsome house in Leicestershire is now a warm and well-used family home
FEATURE JO LEEVERS PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES BALSTON STYLING EDDIE HARROP
The gardens have been redesigned along with the house’s interior. The orangery on the right forges a link between the house and its grounds.
‘We could see the vestiges of a fine country house that would endure as our family home for years to come’
The Leicestershire home of Valerie and David Chapman may have a formal Queen Anne facade, but inside it has an elegantly creative style with a twist that reflects its owners’ personalities. Since buying the property in 1983, and given its scale, Valerie has found upgrading its spaces an ongoing labour of love, which, fortunately, she is well placed to do. Having trained in dress design in London and Paris, she already had a good eye, and later developed it further by studying interior design and working as the creative director of an international manufacturing company.
The house dates from 1734 and was enlarged in the 1890s, followed by some remodelling in the 1950s. ‘It had fallen into disrepair, but we could see the vestiges of a fine country house that would endure as our family home for years to come,’ Valerie remembers.
Over the years, the house has played an important role in both local life and wider British history. In the
early 19th century it was owned by Colonel Edward H Cheney, known for his role in the Battle of Waterloo – he had four horses shot from under him but rode a fifth steed to victory. After the First World War, it hosted meetings between its owner Baron Maurice de Forest – an early aviator, racing driver and Liberal MP – and Lloyd George, who used the drawing room to draft plans for his National Insurance Act of 1911, paving the way for the NHS.
The house has also seen its fair share of royal visitors. Between the First and Second World Wars, the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) stayed regularly in the bedroom above the front door as this allowed his protection officer to sit directly below. While he often joined the county’s hunts, he was doubtless also drawn to the area because his mistress, Thelma Furness, had a home in the region.
During the Second World War, the property served as a base for US officers and was also the scene of a
ABOVE The silk taffeta curtains in the drawing room were made by Humphries Weaving. A footstool upholstered in Daisy Trellis by Chelsea Textiles complements the sofa in a customweave silk brocade from Tissus d’Hélène.
RIGHT ‘They must have heard some very interesting conversations,’ Valerie says of the fine Regency chairs in the dining room, which were bought at Sotheby’s and came from Lord Beaverbrook’s home.
Valerie Chapman in her drawing room: ‘When young people compliment me on the house’s style, I know I have achieved all I hoped.’
‘Every room in the house has been updated, with a decor that is traditional with a modern twist’
ABOVE The kitchen flows into the house’s less formal dining space, with cabinetry painted in a bespoke emerald shade mixed by Valerie and specialist painter David Freer. Chairs upholstered in Muguet in Emerald/ Ivory by Sanderson are set around a weathered oak table.
local scandal when the socialite and ‘It-girl’ of the era, Lady Cecilia Wellesley, and her sister took an illadvised trip with a US colonel stationed at the house. Having access to a Dakota Bomber, he flew them across enemy lines to Brussels for lunch and Christmas shopping.
Despite Valerie and David seeing that the house had fallen on hard times when they took it over in 1983, ‘the possibilities it presented were immediately obvious,’ remembers Valerie. They engaged an architect to oversee the initial two-year renovation and they also repurchased areas of the grounds that had been sold off to a neighbour, including land lying to the front of the hall and to one side of the main drive.
Valerie was already a keen gardener, having done a thesis on the works of André Le Nôtre, the 17thcentury landscape architect who designed the gardens at Versailles. Le Nôtre was also responsible for the grounds of Melbourne Hall in Derbyshire, which also provided Valerie with inspiration when reinstating the parkland and formal gardens surrounding her home. An orangery was added to the house, forging a
link between the inside and the outside and allowing the gardens to be enjoyed during the colder months.
While the Chapman family had enjoyed their home since moving there, during the Covid lockdowns of 2020 Valerie turned her attention once more to its interiors. ‘Like everyone else, we were confined to our house. This served as a reminder of how much we love being here – but also that some of the house needed updating,’ she explains.
Over the course of four years, Valerie and David have had the roof upgraded and the latest technology for plumbing, heating, electricity and security installed, and the original mouldings restored by a master craftsman who had worked on the restoration of Windsor Castle. ‘Every room in the house has been updated, with a decor that is traditional with a modern twist,’ Valerie says. A sense of careful consideration and continuity now runs through the spaces, helped by expanses of limed oak flooring. ‘I have used it everywhere, but in differing designs, from herringbone to Versailles panels,’ she adds.
The only room which Valerie has seen no need to change is the kitchen. Its bespoke solid walnut
Valerie replicated a Georgian print room using a collection of old photographs of the house and its occupants. In the Georgian manner, she pasted the photographs and frames onto stippled walls.
‘Using nail scissors, I cut out the historical frames and then, surrounded by paper confetti, I planned how to set it all out,’ she says. Now, the images stand as a wonderful record of the house.
cabinetry was designed 20 years ago by kitchen designer Max Miller from Wiltshire, whose brief was for a classical, timeless style. ‘In that respect, the kitchen was ahead of its time,’ remarks Valerie. The dining table in the kitchen is an ancient oak piece that came from the Duke of Gloucester’s former home in Northamptonshire. ‘I am sure that table could tell many a tale,’ says Valerie, who points out a visible repair to a corner that hints at its rich history. ‘One can imagine an estate blacksmith working away to strengthen that area where there was a troublesome knot in the wood,’ she adds.
In the bedrooms, Valerie’s love of colour and pattern comes to the fore, played out in florals and toiles. ‘By
ABOVE LEFT The principal bedroom is also known as the Countess’s Bedroom, as named on the house sale particulars of 1917. It has a lit à la polonaise draped in silk taffeta by Lelièvre, which lends a 1940s glamour. The hand-painted wallpaper is by de Gournay.
ABOVE RIGHT Bespoke cabinetry and marble tiles
in the principal en-suite lend a timeless feel, while antique porcelain pieces add a decorative note.
LEFT In the Blue Bedroom, Casadeco wallpaper, Scène d’Été in Bleue Porcelaine, is used on the walls and the pattern is repeated in the fabric used for the curtains. The dressing table is a 1930s French piece.
The Prince’s Bedroom has a fine view of the gardens, framed by high windows with restored shutters and generous curtains. The wall panels are de Gournay.
Inspired by André Le Nôtre, Valerie has reinstated the parkland and formal gardens surrounding her home
using a lighter palette, I have ensured the decor does not feel fuddy-duddy,’ she says. Valerie has a love of antique French-style painted furniture, set against delicate, handcrafted and elite wallcoverings, while upholstery and curtains are further opportunities to add cohesive patterns.
In the family’s drawing room, the silk taffeta curtains sum up Valerie’s approach to decor: ‘The fabric was specially woven in two tones so that while the curtains might look Georgian in design, they have the lightness and charm of today.’ With this deft dovetailing of old and new, Valerie and David have kept the spirit of this special house alive. ■
ABOVE The house is surrounded by mature trees and established lawns.
LEFT The panelled entrance hall with its restored
shutters provides a light and airy introduction to the house. The bust dates back to the era when the house was built.
forbesandlomax.com
STYLE INSPIRATION
Setting the scene for a beautiful garden party, creating an outdoor kitchen, expert advice on introducing art to interiors, and smart ideas for dreamy children’s bedrooms
WALLS THAT TALK
Since launching in 2005, Fromental has become renowned as a pioneer of innovative wallcoverings, showcasing craftsmanship and artistry in hand-painted and embroidered designs including timeless classics to more contemporary styles. A new launch takes this innovation further by embracing modern technology with a printed range that features augmented reality. Creating a magical, immersive experience, the Millefleurs design will come to life when viewed through a smartphone screen. Birds will fly across the walls, butterflies will flutter among flowers and audio will fill the room with the sound of birdsong. Regular updates will be rolled out, so the experience will be ever-changing. Millefleurs wallpaper, £264 a panel or £528 a roll (two panels a roll), Fromental
Party in the
GARDEN
Make the most of summer and gather family and friends for a party outside that continues from afternoon and into the night, stylishly decorated with creative touches
STARLIT SOIRÉE
Set the scene for a long, leisurely evening of laughter with friends with a table dressed to impress. Linen tablecloths and napkins set a more formal note, but some plump cushions add prettiness as well as comfort as supper turns to sundowners and nightcaps. Light some candles and ensure some extra glow with some festoon lights.
Rose Ivory Stripe tablecloth, from £54, and napkins, £28 for a set of four; selection of cushions, from £45; metal chandelier, from £120, all Susie Watson Designs
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN
BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL
Echo the spectrum of colours in garden blooms in decorative accessories for a cheerful, colourful spectacle. Paper pompoms and lanterns are perfect to hang in trees or from a pergola. Tinted vases filled with flowers cut from borders will unite the table with the garden.
All vases, cnadlesticks and paper decorations from a selection at Talking Tables
TEMPTING DISPLAY (right)
A table laden with canapes and nibbles before guests arrive enables the host to greet everyone feeling prepared and relaxed. This inventive ‘floating’ board adds an extra surface and height when slipped onto two bottles, which can be filled with flowers. Simply cut holes to fit in opposite corners of a fairly light, narrow board.
BRIGHT IDEA (below left)
Add extra detail with sweet floral arrangements hung from tree branches. Jam jars are a good option, tied with string, but this creative use of old light bulbs is rather charming, too.
HELP YOURSELF (below right)
Whether a juicy soft drink or a cheeky punch, create a drinks station so guests can serve themselves. A dispenser with a tap is a neat option, or a large vessel and a ladle would work equally well. Put out garnishes so guests can add a finishing touch to their mocktails or cocktails.
Flowers from Durston Garden Products
LIGHT THE WAY (above)
There are a multitude of options for illuminating outdoor spaces, including solar, battery and mains powered lighting. Lights4fun offers all these, along with LED candles which can be used in lanterns and operated with a remote control. Light up pathways and pretty areas of the garden for guests to explore – and, of course, ensure the way out is well lit for when they are returning home.
Lanterns with TruGlow candles, from £59.99, and selection of outdoor lights, all Lights4fun
ALL AGLOW (right)
Candles offer a lovely atmospheric feel as dusk descends, though they might struggle to stay alight if there is more than a gentle summer breeze, so keep their flames protected with a range of options such as votives and floating candles in glasses.
FORMAL DINING
For a larger, formal party – or perhaps even a summer wedding reception held in the garden at home – a more refined approach is called for. Being outside, the feel may be more relaxed than an event held indoors but the table can still be dressed with linens and place settings for each guest.
For a nod to the natural surroundings, consider name cards written on a smooth pebble, polished slice of wood, or even a shell for coastal settings. A low-level, garland-style centrepiece is ideal for allowing conversation to flow easily across the table and to weave among glasses and candlesticks. Finish place settings with a flower or piece of foliage used in the arrangement for perfect co-ordination.
Tablescaping and accessories, What A Host
SERENE SCENE
Afternoon parties in the full heat of the sun will require sheltered, shady spots. A large gazebo, tent, or even marquee is an ideal choice...a rather decadent, decorative one with chinoiserie panelling that also matches cushions, deck chairs and parasols is perfection.
BY CANDLE LIGHT (above
)
Hurricane glasses in all different shapes and sizes allow for candles to be lit and left safely on tabletops and patios, and should withstand the odd breeze.
PURE FINESSE (left)
Outdoor dining can still be luxurious – there is no reason not to use fine table linen, china, silverware and crystal glasses. For truly special occasions, monogrammed napkins can be used as a keepsake for guests to take home. ■
Oak Spring hand-painted porcelain dinner service, £POA, de Gournay
Metal Frame Raj Tent with Chinoiserie walls, £3,250, Raj Tent Club
K ENTCHURCH B UTLERS
An ideal present that will last forever – hand-painted and crafted in Devon, these delightful wooden side tables are fun pieces of furniture to rest your drinks on. Standing 38” high, their sturdy trays are 25“ above ground – an ideal height to place your favourite tipple when resting on your sofa after a hard day in the garden.
Perfect for that birthday, wedding, anniversary or retirement present.
Jockeys can be painted in your own silks, soldiers in the livery of your chosen regiment and footballers or rugby players in colours of your favourite team.
“Proud to have made them as presents for the Royal Family and that 14 of my models reside in their various palaces around the UK.”
Allow 21 days for delivery | No assembly required
To see over 50 models and to order, visit www.kentchurchbutlers.co.uk or telephone Roger on 07774 959561 for that personal touch.
OPEN-AIR COOKING
How to create an outdoor kitchen and dining area to make the most of the summer sunshine and balmy evenings
Ensure
perfect illumination come nightfall with Admiral outdoor wall lights in Natural Brass, £234 each, from David Hunt Lighting
FEATURE AMELIA THORPE
Cooking and dining outside is a blissful way to relax and enjoy the summer weather, extending the living space into the garden.
‘There has been a huge increase in interest in outdoor kitchens and dining,’ says Matt Podesta, director of Home of Huckleberry. ‘Of course, the way we lived changed with the pandemic and, for a lot of people, the garden became a sanctuary and means of keeping happy – and this feeling has endured.’ Sharing a meal with friends and family, enjoying the delicious aromas from the barbecue and the warmth of the summer season is as much a pleasure in a compact, plant-filled courtyard as it is in a rambling country garden.
Al fresco cooking
‘When it comes to al fresco cooking, the barbecue will always be the star of the show,’ says Ricky Davies, marketing director of Sub-Zero & Wolf UK & Europe. ‘However, it is important to consider the full layout of products for a truly seamless experience – ideally, you want to ensure that you are able to prepare and cook an entire meal without having to rush in and out of the house.’ Other appliances to consider are pizza ovens, smokers, outdoor fridges to keep ingredients and drinks chilled, and warming drawers to keep pre-cooked food ready to eat. A sink, a generous preparation area and an outdoor storage zone for cooking equipment are also useful.
Barbecues are available in a range of sizes, from portable and tabletop designs useful for small spaces and balconies to options that fulfil party needs and suit larger gardens. When it comes to fuel choice, for convenience, there are gas and electric models, while for those who prefer their barbecued food with an authentic smoky flavour, there are classic charcoal options. If the aim is to simply grill over a fire, choose a safe location, build a structure using firebricks and a heavy-duty steel grill, with adjustable cooking heights and ventilation, or purchase a modular Argentinianstyle wood-fired asado grill or a barbecue firepit.
ABOVE A bespoke outdoor kitchen designed by interior architecture and landscape design practice Holland Green. BELOW LEFT
A fridge and storage cabinet are useful additions to this built-in gas barbeque, from £6,199, Sub-Zero & Wolf.
OPPOSITE Little Greene’s Tuscan Red, masonry paint, £86 for 5l, adds panache to this outdoor kitchen area.
‘Ideally, you want to be able to prepare and cook an entire meal without having to rush in and out of the house’ Ricky Davies, marketing director Sub-Zero & Wolf
In addition to grilling, barbecues may have rotisserie, searing plate, smoker box and warming rack options, while all-in-one ceramic egg-shaped kamado cookers can be used for grilling, smoking, roasting, pizza making and more. Pizza ovens have become increasingly popular for their ability to make delicious, crispy pizza, as well as flatbread and focaccia, and are available in electric, gas and wood-fired options. It is also possible to build a brick wood-fired pizza oven as a permanent outdoor fixture: consult a professional builder for advice. These larger ovens can also be used for more than pizza – cook up a feast or add a smoky note to a Sunday roast.
Kitchen in the garden
With the appliances chosen, it is time to transform an area of the terrace or garden into a stylish outdoor kitchen, preferably reasonably close to the house to minimise tray carrying. Choose from modular options to fully bespoke designs according to budget and available space.
‘For a simple-yet-practical layout, you will need around 2.5m to 3m to comfortably accommodate a premium barbecue, but for a fully equipped outdoor kitchen we recommend allowing at least 4m to 5m, ideally in a linear or L-shaped arrangement,’ says Knud Augustin, co-founder of Flammkraft.
‘Position the dining table nearby, ensure the outdoor kitchen has enough prep area and allow for practicalities, such as an integrated bin’ Louisa Eggleston, creative director, Humphrey Munson
The aim is to ensure everything is in easy reach for a smooth workflow, preferably while being able to chat to guests at the same time. ‘Position the dining table nearby, ensure the outdoor kitchen has enough prep area,’ adds Louisa Eggleston, creative director of Humphrey Munson, ‘and allow for the practicalities, such as an integrated waste bin – who wants a bin bag hanging off a door handle when you are entertaining?’
Materials need to be durable and weatherproof to maximise the kitchen’s longevity. Teak, iroko and oak are popular wood choices, as is marine-grade steel and vitreous enamel, while worktops in the latest porcelain and ultra-compact man-made stone are specifically designed to be non-porous and UV-stable. Natural stone is typically more porous, but are an option for those who prioritise the natural beauty of granite, marble and so on.
ABOVE Vlaze Adapt vitreous enamel modular outdoor kitchen, from £15,000, Grid Thirteen Design. RIGHT Accessorise an outdoor kitchen with beautiful textiles, such as these from the Olive collection by Sophie Allport.
ABOVE Over time, this solid oak garden kitchen, prices from £17,995, by Home of Huckleberry will age gracefully to a natural silver-grey colour.
RIGHT Create an instant outdoor kitchen with Cox & Cox’s Long Island barbecue cabinet, £3,750, corner storage unit, £1,450 and bar set, £1,495.
ABOVE Keep plates and food heated in a built-in outdoor warming drawer is a luxury option available from Sub-Zero & Wolf.
RIGHT Offering fully customisable options with its flexible, modular design, this outdoor kitchen, from £5,910, is by Grillo.
Setting the scene
The focus of an outdoor eating area is likely to be a dining table, sized according to the space available and required seating capacity, or a bar table for drinks and more casual dining. Outdoor sofas, benches, armchairs and side tables can all add to the comfort of the set-up and be chosen according to the style of outdoor ‘room’ required. Garden furniture is now available in a host of materials, including weatherproof wicker, wood and metal, with cushions in performance fabrics designed to withstand moisture and UV damage. Complete the design with an outdoor rug, such as those made from recycled plastic bottles from Weaver Green or Jennifer Manners, to zone the dining area and add comfort under foot.
LEFT Outdoor kitchen with Neolith Iron Grey sintered stone surfaces, which withstand all weather, from £17,400, by König Outdoor. BELOW A bespoke outdoor kitchen, prices from £15,000 excluding appliances, created by Humphrey Munson for a courtyard garden.
‘Exterior lighting has the power to instantly transform any outdoor space, creating a warm environment perfect for outdoor entertaining and highlighting planting or architectural details’ Hollie Moreland, creative director, David Hunt Lighting
To allow the space to be used long into the evening, lighting is an important consideration. ‘Exterior lighting has the power to instantly transform any outdoor space, creating a warm environment perfect for outdoor entertaining and highlighting planting or architectural details, while also providing practicality and safety,’ says Hollie Moreland, creative director, David Hunt Lighting. If power is required – such as underground cabling for lights not mounted on the outside wall of the house – always consult a fully qualified electrician for safety reasons and regulation compliance. Lighting installed outside must have a minimum rating of IP44 to ensure it is weatherproof and safe. Alternatively, consider portable and
rechargeable table lamps, which can be dotted around without trailing wires, or simple storm lanterns to illuminate the space with candlelight. It is also worth considering shelter from the sun on hot days and from rain and wind when the weather is unpredictable, extending the amount of time the outdoor cooking and dining area can be comfortably used. A parasol is a simple addition or, for a permanent solution, consider an open sided structure or pergola, which could be adorned with climbing plants and pretty lights to add to the atmosphere in the evening. A retractable awning or fixed canopy make for other solutions, depending on the location and level of shelter required. n
Modern efficiency with classic good looks
Pizza al fresco
Serve up freshly made pizzas, tailored to each diner’s personal taste, with one of these innovative outdoor pizza ovens, which can also be used to cook other food, including delicious breads and pastries
1 Fontana Marinara wood-fired pizza oven, £2,469, Direct Stoves 2 Garden stove with pizza oven, £1,200, Esse 3 Dual-fuel gas and wood-fired pizza oven, £1,195, DeliVita 4 Koda Two Pro gas outdoor pizza oven, £599, Ooni 5 Large Big Green Egg barbecue with pizza-making capabilities, £1,450, Big Green Egg 6 Casa Mia Bravo 16-inch gas pizza oven, £249, Atkin and Thyme
7 Pizza oven plus wood-burning stove, £539, Boutique Camping 8 Pete’s Oven firepit and pizza oven, £671, Firepits UK
9 Forno Spin electric outdoor pizza oven, £749, Morsø 10 Witt Rotante pizza oven in Stone, £699, Harrods 11 Dome pizza oven, £1,780, Gozney ■
From cosying up fireside in a country cottage, to stargazing from a dreamy hot tub at your clifftop hideaway, escape the everyday and seek the magic of a staycation with Boutique Retreats. With over 260 luxury abodes to choose from, uncover our curated collection of luxury retreats, set in unique locations across the UK. We know how good getaways should be.
In an ongoing series spotlighting the idea that a finely-tuned symphony of form and function provides a truly meaningful place to live, we explore how art can add character, balance and texture to a home
FEATURE EMMA J PAGE
THIS PAGE A collection of continental landscapes of varying ages and styles add a decorative air in VSP Interiors’
OPPOSITE In this sitting
Henriette von Stockhausen’s kitchen.
room by Alice Leigh
Design, Jungle Blanket by Mexican artist Lilian Martinez at BFGF has been framed in Perspex by Monart Framers.
From special pieces passed through the generations to collected items with an inherently sentimental or personal value, artwork can have a transformative effect in the home. Whether setting a scheme’s intention or as a finishing touch, it acts either as a focal point or an understated addition, introducing a layer of nuance. ‘The most striking displays are either rigorously minimalist – a single beautiful or esoteric object dramatically lit – or a rich assemblage of different colours and textures,’ noted Sir Terence Conran in his influential The Essential House Book, whose counsel this series pays homage to. Above all, just like books, art, whether a print, painting or textile, can impart something of the personality of its owner, bringing narrative, texture, emotion and character to a home.
ART & CRAFT
In a truly eclectic scheme, art can encapsulate anything from traditional oil paintings to textiles. ‘Elements of art and craft together imbue a space with life and character,’ believes designer Kit Kemp. ‘Building an art collection that captures your imagination doesn’t have to be unattainable or unaffordable. Avoid being bound by convention or preconceived ideas of what art is. Instead, celebrate what brings you joy, bearing in mind that the act of framing brings gravitas and impact, whether it’s a collection of pages from a book or even antique keys. Frame the unexpected.’
A relaxed approach tends to create an element of dynamism. ‘Anything can be considered art and indeed a home is lent more interest by having all sorts of things on the wall,’ thinks decorative art dealer
ABOVE In this hallway by Sims Hilditch, a largescale painting adds gravitas, elevating the rustic wooden sideboard and ceramic lamp base. LEFT A selection of favourite pieces sourced from an online auction site and, far left, by artist Jessica Jane Charleston, are propped casually on the mantelpiece above the cooker for informal appeal in this Wiltshire kitchen by Studio Alexandra.
Julia Collins, of Collins & Green Art. ‘In my kitchen, I have some of my children’s school art, a painting by a friend of a special evening, a framed postcard, my daughter’s first shoe, and even a framed tin of sardines from a memorable picnic, all mixed in with paintings. It gives me great pleasure and reminds me of the people I love.’
Ceramics are also an important medium. ‘They offer a combination of form, colour and texture – all of which are important in building up layers,’ says Alex Inkin for Ceramic Art London. ‘Ceramics on walls are particularly pleasing, especially plates, which, like art, can be hung alone or in a group.’
The question of whether art should be chosen to complement a scheme or stand independently of it is an age-old debate, whose answer perhaps lies in the idea that it should not be prescribed; hanging what truly attracts in a place that enhances its appeal is perhaps the only worthwhile rule of thumb. ‘Art can anchor a space in two ways,’ suggests Emma Lang, founder of online gallery, SOTA. ‘If it’s the final layer of a scheme, chosen to seamlessly blend in, opt for a piece which reflects the tone and style of the room. If the art is intended to stand out, you can be more playful, going bolder with colours and composition.’
Otta Design chose this impactful reading nook as the ideal spot for its clients’ artwork, Rehearsal, by Glen Preece at Panter & Hall. The colours of its frame are complemented by the tones of the wall lights flanking it.
‘Art can balance architectural features or furnishings, adding weight where needed or drawing attention to particular areas’ Verity Woolf, Woolf Interiors
ABOVE Villefranche, Côte d’Azur, an oil painting of by Gabriel Deschamps, takes centre stage in this living room by Daw & Co, its elaborate gilt frame offset by mirror panelling.
LEFT An oil painting by artist Fletcher Prentice brings a sense of place to this colourful sitting room by Otta Design, its tones of nature anchored by richly painted joinery.
IN THE FRAME
As well as being visually interesting, strategically placed artwork directs flow through a room, creating focal points that organise how we experience a space. ‘It can balance architectural features or furnishings, adding weight where needed or drawing attention to particular areas,’ says Woolf Interiors’ Verity Woolf. ‘Even in minimalist homes, the right piece can make a well-designed scheme feel resolved and intentional.’ As for where to hang art, size, scale, colour, value and attachment to the work are all important elements. Collins suggests not hanging the most important piece right in the middle of the wall as it can end up being overly dominant, making a relaxed gallery set up feel too wooden and static. ‘Things flow much better if the biggest piece is off-centre, among a mixture of styles, subjects, media and frames,’ she advises. When considering the perfect location for a piece, bear in mind its depth as well as its dimensions, ensuring that it cannot be easily damaged. ‘Consider whether a piece will be obscured or knocked against when a door is opened,’ advises The Art Register’s Lizzie Dixey. ‘I always prefer to suspend art from a split
batten system rather than a string or wire. This means the works hang flush to the wall (rather than tilting forward) and are more secure.’ Another option is to use a picture rail system, which makes it easy to move pieces around, while avoiding damage to walls.
Of course, frame choice is key, lending the ability to elevate humble pieces or cast works in a new, surprising context. ‘I enjoy how a frame can make or break a piece,’ says VSP Interiors’ Henriette von Stockhausen. ‘For example, I recently reworked a lion painting using a red and gold frame, and it completely transformed the artwork – suddenly, it popped and commanded attention in the room.’
Selecting an appropriate frame is an art itself and it pays to be experimental. ‘A painted frame can bring out hidden colours in the artwork; a monochromatic contemporary frame can modernise the look of a piece, while a natural wood or antique frame can add warmth and dimension,’ advises Georgia Spray, founder of Partnership Editions. ‘Glass is also important to consider, particularly when working with delicate mediums such as pastels or photography – art glass or UV glass can save a piece from fading.’
Another key area to consider is mounting. ‘That’s something that often goes overlooked,’ says interior designer Rachael Gowdridge. ‘If the artwork is on handmade paper with torn or rounded edges, we’ll float mount it to celebrate that tactility and materiality. It becomes less about ‘framing a picture’ and more about honouring the object. Other times, we’ll use a linen mount to soften the presentation.’
ARTISTIC LICENCE
Sometimes, an unexpected approach pays dividends, whether that is placing art in overlooked areas such as a powder room or above a light switch, or using a highly contemporary frame for a classic piece. ‘We love to do something almost jarring, to draw the eye,’ says interior designer Ellen Cumber of Golden. ‘We will often lean a piece of art on a shelf or a mantelpiece and hang works off-centre, or lower than expected. We also like to create little vignettes in a corner for added interest.’
The interplay between art and furniture is also worth considering. For example, an upholstered bench running underneath an artwork visually underlines it, an approach that works especially well if the fabric colours tie in with the artwork’s tone, while hanging a generous artwork above a desk has the same effect.
At other times, a relaxed mix of artwork, hung salon-style can be very effective. ‘Arranging artwork is all about finding balance,’ advises stylist Charlotte Page. ‘High-hung pieces make a strong statement, while low-hanging art creates a more relaxed, intimate feel. Mixing both can really bring a room to life. I like to think of a frame as the artwork’s outfit. Don’t be afraid to experiment with frame styles and mount board spacing on a gallery wall – it’s all about creating something that feels personal to you.’
ABOVE In this colourful country house sitting room, a 19th-century piece, Majestic Lion in a Landscape, formerly part of the collection of Gianni Versace, has been impactfully reframed by VSP Interiors.
RIGHT A subtle wallpaper pattern, Birdlip in Butter by Parker & Jules, adds a textural backdrop to a collection of artworks in this entrance hall by Studio Duggan.
‘It’s hard to go wrong if you’re choosing a one-of-a-kind piece that speaks to you, whether classical portraiture or a mid-century abstract.’ Sandrine Zhang Ferron, founder, Vinterior
Experimenting with different mediums and novel ways to apply them can often be fruitful. Home & Found’s Tamsin Saunders prizes textiles for their inherently artistic quality. ‘Historically, female artists such as Anni Albers were excluded from traditionally male media and forced into exploring colour, texture, shape, rhythm and form using textiles and the loom instead. Their work is absolutely beautiful,’ she says. ‘I also recently had some 1920s silk ikats framed for a client – the colours and patterns feel so fresh and bold. I’ve framed beaded book covers and stretched a large mid-century abstract hand-painted on silk.’
In a contemporary twist, Clothsmith shines a light on the craftsmanship behind antique textiles by using a complex scanning and reproduction process to capture the intricate stitch work of art that might otherwise have been lost, including centuries-old embroidery or suzanis, creating affordable replicas on fine art paper, while textile consultant Sophie Roet specialises in unearthing antique pieces that can be
framed, from 1920s French ribbon colour cards to a Chinese embroidered collar. And design firm OWN London recently commissioned a tapestry from a specialist embroiderer to cover the sliding panels in front of the TV screen, creating an artwork of colour, texture and playfulness.
As for where to find art, the possibilities are endless, from fairs and auction houses to eBay and Etsy, via reputable online dealers and independent sellers. Galleries such as M.A.H. Gallery, Columbia Road Gallery and 8 Holland Street offer a good selection of contemporary originals. ‘Vintage can also be a good way to find truly unusual pieces,’ says Vinterior’s founder Sandrine Zhang Ferron. ‘It’s hard to go wrong if you’re choosing a one-of-a-kind piece that speaks to you, whether classical portraiture or a mid-century abstract.’ Collecting artwork requires patience and research, but with a curious eye and a confident approach, the results will imbue a home with a truly unique essence. n
ABOVE LEFT A vibrant, large-scale painting by Celia Martine Pickering provides a dramatic anchor to this space, transforming what was once a redundant chimney breast. ‘It was the starting point for the scheme,’ says interior designer Sarah Vanrenen.
ABOVE RIGHT An original lithograph by Man Ray is an ideal addition to Altfield’s silk wallpaper in Bone, setting a gentle mood in this bedroom scheme by Studio Vero.
At Dorset Square Hotel by Kit Kemp Design Studio, a selection of early 20th-century cricketing cartoons act as a playful nod to its location, moments from the original Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Child’s play
Decorating a bedroom a child will love to call their own demands a careful balance between practicality and creative ingenuity
FEATURE SARA EMSLIE
1The perfect WALLCOVERING
A bedroom should be a child’s own special haven where they can play, read and draw as well as snuggle up in bed for the night, so choose a wallcovering that really captures their imagination. Be inspired by their developing personality and select a wallpaper, mural or border that creates a space full of fairytale magic.
‘Plain walls are practical, but a pattern, fresco or mural will encourage creativity in any youngster,’ advises Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. ‘I’m a firm believer in creating bedrooms and vibrant spaces for children where they are inspired to play. Let their imaginations run wild with an all-over mural wallpaper.’
For a covering that is relatively simply and quick to update, consider peel-and-stick wallpaper. ‘Our Peel & Stick wallpaper offers a practical and creative solution for children’s rooms,’ explains Sandra Willund, creative director at Sandberg. ‘Its ease of application and removal allow for quick updates as tastes evolve, making it perfect for growing children.’
2The perfect BED
A well-designed bed with the flexibility to change as a child’s needs change is always worth the investment. Practical considerations include whether the bed is extendable, has a trundle bed for sleepovers or storage drawers for extra bedding.
To create a bit of magic and wonder, let their imaginations take flight with a custom-built ship,
ABOVE LEFT Simple to apply and to remove once no longer required, peeland-stick wallpaper offers a versatile creative option. Sunflowers wallpaper, £51.24 a square metre, Peel & Stick collection, Sandberg
LEFT Ignite imaginations and teach little ones some geography too with this mural-like wallpaper. World Traveller Map made-to-measure wallpaper, from £34 a square metre, Wallsauce
Enchanting by design, a whimsical mural can transform a plain room into a place of wonder and delight. Potter’s Woodland Mural wallpaper in Spring, £262 a roll, and all paint, Little Greene
treehouse or castle-style bed, or simply add drapes they can pull shut to create their own little world.
‘Cabin-bed nooks with theatrical curtains are some of the ideas I use in my designs to create joyful areas for children to really feel the magic of childhood,’ says interior designer Sarah Southwell. ‘They are also a great way to get the most out of a space as you can get storage drawers under them and build in shelves and lights to create a perfect cosy haven for your little ones to retreat to.’
For older children, a standard single bed can be given a style update with a statement upholstered headboard that adds a fantasy element and creates a change of visual pace.
Last but not least, take care selecting an age- and size-appropriate mattress that is pocket-sprung for optimal support and comfort. Consider those made from breathable, child-friendly and sustainable materials such as wool, which is temperatureregulating and hypoallergenic too.
LEFT A headboard with curves adds a fairy-tale element to a single bed. Rose single bed, £775, Button & Sprung BELOW LEFT Engineeredwood flooring has a clean, seamless, modern aesthetic and makes mopping up spills easy.
3The perfect FLOORING
Classic 15mm Plank in French Oak Bird Box colourway, £63 a square metre, Knot & Grain OPPOSITE Integrate clever storage and save space with cosy cabin bunk beds. Back wall in Rainforest Dew, £34.50 for 0.9l Aura Matt, Benjamin Moore
Carpet is a cosy option for a child’s bedroom, though not necessarily the most practical, depending on the amount of wear and tear it might go through. A better choice might be a surface that can be wiped clean, is stain-resistant and sustainable.
‘When it comes to designing children’s bedrooms, it’s important to always consider how practicality meets personality – and hard flooring is the perfect base to build upon,’ explains Natalie Mudd, co-founder of Knot & Grain. ‘Engineered-wood flooring is a great option, as it’s easy to clean up those everyday spillages. Unlike carpets, wood doesn’t trap dust, dirt or allergens, making it the most convenient and hygienic option. Those looking to add a sense of comfort in the room should consider a high-pile rug for extra cosiness. The benefit of rugs is that they can be easily swapped out when tastes change, or for a seasonal refresh.’
4 The perfect CLOTHES STORAGE
Children’s clothes storage requirements are significantly different to those of an adult, so think carefully when designing the room. ‘Children don’t need much hanging space, so prioritise drawers,’ explains Lara Clarke of Lara Clarke Interiors. ‘We always like to include shelving space for books and toys, or the knick-knacks they collect.’
Built-in storage will always maximise the potential of alcoves or under-eaves storage, if the room is at the top of the house, so consider commissioning a carpenter to design and build specifically to the space.
For older children, add character with quirky storage solutions such as a school-style metal locker or a canvas-canopied wardrobe. Or source vintage pieces they can upcycle and stamp their personality on.
RIGHT Stackable cube storage keeps toys and books within easy reach.
Pensham stacking cubbies, £149; Chantilly 3ft single bed, £499; Rattan table lamp, £85; Seagrass storage baskets, from £20 (small); Chester oak step stool, £5, all The Cotswold Company
5 The perfect TOY STORAGE
BELOW Add charm with characterful storage. Giraffe shelving unit by Bloomingville, £245, Ella James OPPOSITE Maximise storage potential with custom-built cupboards. Storage designed by Lara Clarke Interiors.
Keeping the profusion of toys, books and teddies tidy is key in a child’s bedroom, and the most successful storage is that which combines practicality with aesthetic considerations and a touch of whimsy.
‘The perfect storage for a child’s room strikes a delicate balance between form and function,’ advises Lisa Coppin, chief creative officer at The Cotswold Company. ‘It should be practical enough to keep everyday chaos in order, but appealing enough to engage and nurture creativity in little ones.
‘Children naturally respond to spaces that are playful and intuitive. That’s why versatile pieces like rattan hanging baskets or stacking storage cubes are ideal for a child’s room as they’re simple, adaptable and help encourage tidying up as part of the fun, not a chore.’
Fabrics can inject new life into any room scheme, and particularly so in a child’s bedroom, where a mix of brightly coloured patterns produces a lively feel. Layer beds with quilts and cushions in classic stripes, cheery checks or pretty florals for a relaxed mood. For a more put-together aesthetic, team these with a co-ordinating wallpaper.
‘We’re seeing people embrace pattern and bring rooms to life by using matching wallpaper and fabric, enveloping spaces with pattern and colour. A child’s room is the perfect opportunity to really surprise and delight in this way,’ says Rebecca Craig, lead designer at Sanderson. ‘Designing with co-ordinating or matching fabric and wallpaper makes it all feel more sophisticated. Pair a small-scale stripe with a main print to pull a colour palette together, alongside more delicate touches such as frilled edges and bobbles.’
ABOVE RIGHT Embrace the power of pattern for adding colourful charm to a child’s room.
Wallpaper, 101 Dalmatians in Candy Floss, £122 a roll; headboard and bolster cushion, 101 Dalmatians fabric in Candy Floss, £82 a metre, Disney Home x Sanderson
7
The perfect DESK AREA
BELOW RIGHT Make sure there is somewhere comfortable and practical for a child to sit and spend some quiet time drawing, painting and studying, complete with a suitably calm backdrop.
Wallpaper, Bladverk, Sandstone, £62.04 a roll, Sandberg
Every child needs a quiet area for studying, drawing and other creative endeavours, so create an area in the bedroom specifically for this. Designs that are classic yet characterful encourage study, advises Sophie Demenge, co-founder of Oeuf: ‘When selecting study furniture for a child’s room, focus on safety, sustainable materials, and timeless designs that grow with the child, ensuring durability and long-term usability.’
If choosing something for an older child, a vintage desk can add practicality, sustainability and style, particularly when coupled with an old-style school chair. ‘We chose a vintage desk for a girl’s bedroom to bring in just the right mix of charm and personality,’ says interior designer Sophie Rowell, director and founder, Côte de Folk. ‘Perfect for arts and crafts in the early years, and just as handy for studying and homework as they grow. Proof that a small corner of the bedroom can be practical as well as stylish.’
Accessories are a simple way to add personal character.
8 The perfect FUN ELEMENT
Accessories that are a joy to behold for children and adults alike are a wonderful way of injecting personality into a space and are easily changeable to suit tastes as a child grows. Mobiles, bunting, toy planes and hot-air ballons add interest suspended from the ceiling, while play tents and canopies will help provide those all-important dens and hideaway places to evoke a sense of exploration or adventure.
‘Adding playful accessories to a child’s room sparks imagination, nurtures curiosity and exploration,
ABOVE A playful wallpaper and canopy is perfect for little dreamers.
Crocky Road, Marbles & Straw, all £60 for 2.5l Claypaint, Earthborn
Stratus wallpaper, Sky, £140 a roll, House of Hackney
encourages creative play, and transforms everyday moments into exciting adventures and joyful memories,’ says Carolina Costa, chief executive of Circu Magical Furniture.
A painted ceiling can create a space full of magic in next to no time at all, adds interior designer Sarah Southwell: ‘When I did my own house, four years ago, I went wild with bold bright colours, painted circular tent ceilings and quirky nooks to create truly magical spaces for my three boys.’ n
ABOVE Encourage imaginative play with a teepee and fun wallcovering.
Viridian Green Jungle mural wallpaper, £40 a roll, Good Home
LEFT Creative paint ideas, such as these large circles, enliven even a neutral scheme.
Wee Blue Bell cushions, from £37, Bluebell Gray
LIVING THE SEASON
July’s bountiful flora and fauna, Cornwall’s many delights, and unique places to stay
RASPBERRY ICE CREAM
For a quick and easy summer treat that will delight young and old, serve up this instant ice cream sprinkled with an unexpected yet delicious counterpoint of chopped herbs and nuts
For 4 servings
Preparation time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
INGREDIENTS
350g frozen raspberries
100g low-fat yoghurt
1 tbsp icing sugar
4 waffle cones
1 tbsp walnuts, roughly chopped
½ tbsp basil, chopped
METHOD
• Briefly blitz the frozen raspberries with the yoghurt and icing sugar in a blender until creamy.
• Scoop into ice cream cones and top with walnuts and basil. Serve immediately.
TIPS:
• Other tasty topping options include granola, white chocolate flakes, pine nuts, freshly chopped rosemary or mint, or a dollop of pistachio cream from a jar.
NATURE In tune with
Embrace seasonal living and enjoy the harvests and sights of July
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN
NATURE TO SPOT
The majestic and vibrant kingfisher is an icon of British waterways and spotting a flash of royal blue and orange plumage in a wetland, canal or river setting is considered an honour. Though these small fishing birds can be hard to spot, July can offer good opportunities as it is in the midst of breeding season and they are more active feeding young. It can require patience, so taking a portable seat to perch on and spend some time watching and waiting is a good idea. Lucky twitchers might spot a kingfisher waiting on a branch preparing to dive, but for many the dazzling blur of blue and orange swooping down may be all that is witnessed. Capturing the moment on camera is perhaps best left to the professionals, allowing time to fully appreciate the moment of this beautiful bird in action.
NATURAL SPECTACLE
Roses, so emblematic of an English garden, are a joy to behold all summer long, but July is when many varieties come to their peak in full bloom at once.
Tea roses, hybrids, floribundas and old roses all reach a crescendo to create a glorious display of colours with their sweet perfume filling the warm air in a heady mix of delicate fragrances.
This is the time to visit gardens that have a dedicated rose garden to enjoy the full experience of colour, scent and variety. Renowned grower of roses David Austin has gardens open to the public and is home to the National Collection of English Roses. Nestled in the Shropshire countryside there are six themed gardens to explore, all free to visit.
PRESERVE THE SEASON
July is when many fruits and vegetables are ready to harvest, often resulting in gluts of produce. Rather than letting any surplus go to waste, look at ways to capture the tastes of summer to savour later in the year.
Pickling is a perfect way to preserve baby beetroots, shredded summer cabbages, and, of course, baby cucumbers to create delicious gherkins to enjoy alongside cheeses, salads or a juicy burger. Create a hot pickling liquor with a favourite vinegar, water and sugar, seasoned with salt and aromatic spices, then seal in a jar with the cucumbers. They should be tangy and tart after a couple of weeks but will keep for several months to be relished as a piquant note to savoury dishes.
HARVEST CHERRIES
Cherries have a short but fruitful period in season in July. These ruby jewels glisten on trees and tempt with their sweet, juicy flavour when ripened in the sun. Picking cherries is a rather lovely task – of course sampling a few along the way helps. Those that do make it into the basket will not last long at home! If any are not popped in the mouth as a tasty treat, it can be worth the more arduous task of stoning them in order to use in recipes. A classic cherry pie is a delight, and cherries are perfectly partnered with almonds in frangipanes and Bakewell tarts. A helping on some creamy yoghurt also makes a lovely summer morning breakfast. ■
PICK DELPHINIUMS
Also known as larkspur, delphiniums are the birth flower for July, a true stalwart of the cottage garden, and with some reaching heights of two metres, they are perfect for creating height and structure in borders. Delphiniums also look impressive in floral arrangements, and can last up to 12 days in a vase. Cut their hollow stems at an angle, then carefully fill each one with water and place a thumb or cotton wool over the end to prevent the introduction of any air pockets while gently placing them in a bucket to hydrate overnight.
When choosing which ones to cut, consider that the flowers emerge from bottom to top so opting for some with closed blooms at the top will offer longevity and a successional opening of flowers over a week. Partner these structured, linear blooms in a vase with looser flowers such as lisianthus or roses, which will offer a soft, romantic note.
Essential CORNWALL
From the world-famous to hidden gems, explore Cornwall’s unmissable destinations
FEATURE KATHERINE SORRELL
A magnificent view over Trebah, a sub-tropical garden in a 26-acre Cornish valley with its own beach.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Porth Joke beach, near Newquay, quiet and unspoilt; Hayle Towans, the beginning of Hayle’s three-mile stretch of beaches; Gyllyngvase, Falmouth’s most popular beach; Porthmeor beach, St Ives, much loved by surfers.
Cornwall’s beautiful beaches, from secluded coves to broad expanses, are a major draw for visitors every summer, yet this fascinating county’s attractions extend year-round, from outstanding art galleries and glorious sub-tropical gardens to Michelin-star restaurants and a browseworthy breadth of independent shops. From the quieter south-east corner to the buzzy, arty St Ives in the far west, it is worth exploring far and wide to discover a host of Cornish delights.
Beautiful beaches
More than 300 beaches are dotted around the Cornish peninsula, with plenty of variety on both coasts, though in general, the north-coast beaches are more rugged and offer better surfing waves, while the south-coast beaches tend to be sheltered, with calmer waters. For a memorable walk, take the steep path down to dog-friendly Whitsand Bay in unspoilt south-east Cornwall, a three-mile stretch of beach framed by dramatic cliffs, or, at the opposite end of the county, watch the seals at Mutton Cove, then wander from Godrevy to the Hayle Estuary at low tide, when several beaches combine.
The scenic delights of Kynance Cove, on the Lizard peninsula, and Porthcurno, in West Cornwall, are well documented, but Carne beach in Gerrans Bay on the Roseland peninsula is another beauty spot, while Porth Joke beach (known locally as ‘Polly Joke’) near Newquay is a crescent of sand that – as locals will attest – is well worth the mile-long trek along the coastal path. Many of Cornwall’s beaches are dog-friendly all year, while for those who prefer to be canine-free, there are peak-season daytime bans on numerous superb beaches, including Gyllyngvase in Falmouth, Porthmeor and Porthminster in St Ives, and Widemouth Bay in Bude.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT
Helen Round, Maker Heights; Alice in Scandiland, Lostwithiel; Cream Cornwall, Falmouth; The Webb Street Company, Fowey; Molesworth & Bird, Fowey.
Interiors emporia
Cornwall has no shortage of shops offering interiors inspiration, with sustainability and local makers often at the fore. The selection in the chic coastal town of Fowey is particularly good, including Liga, whose intriguing selection includes cork mats and coasters; Molesworth & Bird, for hand-pressed seaweed prints; Pebble & Salt, which specialises in locally sourced and sustainable products; The Webb Street Company, with its variety of appealing lifestyle goods; and Brocante, which has two shops selling carefully curated homeware and gifts.
Falmouth is another excellent shopping destination, home to Willow & Stone, which began life as a specialist in period-style ironmongery and now also offers a splendid range of lighting, homeware and gifts. For Scandinavian style, head to Cloudberry Living in Falmouth, and the wonderful Alice in Scandiland, Lostwithiel, full of contemporary and vintage products. While in Lostwithiel, the nearby Duchy of Cornwall Nursery has an eclectic shop full of irresistible homeware, gifts and other goodies. Cream Cornwall, with branches in Falmouth and St Ives, stands out for its timeless coastal designs made in Britain, while Helen Round’s small shop, part of the Maker Heights creative complex near Torpoint, offers charming linen homeware that is hand screenprinted on site with her own designs.
Art and ceramics
Between the 1940s and 1960s, the remote fishing village of St Ives became an art centre of international importance, with artists drawn by the area’s light quality and natural beauty. This story is told at Tate St Ives, which showcases work by the likes of Naum Gabo, Patrick Heron and Barbara Hepworth (do not miss the latter’s tranquil sculpture garden nearby).
An art-lover’s tour of St Ives will also include the Porthminster, Penwith and New Craftsman galleries, St Ives Ceramics and the renowned Leach Pottery.
Across the peninsula, Penzance boasts The Newlyn Art Gallery & The Exchange (modern art in two locations), and the Penlee House Gallery & Museum, which focuses on the late 19th and early 20th-century works of the Newlyn School. In nearby St Just, the less-well-known Jackson Foundation has been named the best art gallery in Cornwall for three years running, its remit a celebration of the relationship between art and the natural world.
For Japanese-inspired ceramics, Prindle Pottery near Lostwithiel is excellent, or venture east to the Rame Peninsula where the Byre Gallery sells tempting contemporary art and design-led craft.
In Cornwall’s capital city, Truro, more than a million objects – including a nationally significant art collection – tell the story of the county within the Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery.
FROM ABOVE LEFT
New Craftsman Gallery, St Ives, with paintings by Sarah Woods; Byre Gallery, Millbrook, with paintings by Heath Hearn (top left) and Sophie Harding, and ceramics (including jug) by Lucy Burley; a Standard Ware mug from Leach Pottery, St Ives; Porthminster Gallery, St Ives.
CLOCKWISE
Glorious gardens
Thanks to a mild climate and the warmth of the Gulf Stream, the gardens of Cornwall contain some of Britain’s most exotic, rare and beautiful specimens, as well as delightful native species. Trebah, near Falmouth, offers an array of 100-year-old rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias, a Hydrangea Valley and the tallest tree (a Chusan palm) in the UK. The Lost Gardens of Heligan, west of St Austell, include Victorian productive gardens, historic plantings from around the world, romantic features and the UK’s only ‘outdoor jungle’, which is full of exotics such as giant rhubarb and banana plantations.
The gardens at Enys, near Penryn, are renowned for the beauty of their bluebells in spring, while the maples at the Japanese Garden, St Mawgan, perform spectacular colour changes in autumn. Combine a visit to Pencarrow’s gardens, near Bodmin, with a tour of its Georgian house; alternatively, lovers of modern art will appreciate the extraordinary sculptures at Tremenheere, near Penzance, which mingle with the sub-tropical planting surprisingly seamlessly. Finally, the world-renowned Eden Project boasts two biomes filled with Mediterranean and rainforest plants, plus vast outdoor gardens, all within the slopes of a former clay mine outside St Austell.
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT
The world-famous biomes and outdoor gardens at the Eden Project, set in a former clay mine outside St Austell; densely packed sub-tropical plants at Trebah, near Falmouth; autumn colours at the Japanese Garden, St Mawgan; wooden steps lead visitors around the ‘Jungle’ at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, near St Austell; stately trees and an immaculate lawn at Pencarrow, near Bodmin.
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE
The Hidden Hut, Porthcurnick Beach; Crocadon, St Mellion, has a Green Michelin Star; the fish counter at Prawn on the Lawn, Padstow; the chef/ patron at work in his restaurant, Paul Ainsworth at No.6, Padstow.
Foodie delights
For 50 years Padstow has been home to Rick Stein’s famous Seafood Restaurant, now complemented by Stein’s café, fish and chip shop and bistro, Paul Ainsworth’s Caffé Rojano and the Michelin-starred Paul Ainsworth at No.6, and Prawn on the Lawn, which serves tapas-style small plates. The Cornwall food scene is not just about Padstow, however. Look further afield and there are numerous Cornish eateries serving unique and exciting menus.
Picturesque Porthleven is another gourmet hub, with an excellent food festival every spring and numerous outstanding restaurants, including Kota, from Jude Kereama (of Great British Menu fame), and The Square at Porthleven, which also owns the next-door deli and ice-cream emporium.
Crocadon, based on a ‘soil-centric farm’ in St Mellion, has a Green Michelin Star , as do Flora in Helston and Culture in Falmouth, while Nathan Outlaw has not one but two Michelin-starred establishments in tiny Port Isaac (of Doc Martin fame).
The fishing port of Newlyn boasts two excellent seafood restaurants, Argoe and Mackerel Sky, plus the Tolcarne Inn (another Michelin mention) offering a flavoursome fish- and shellfish-based menu.
Even Cornwall’s beach cafés are often sublime, with the Hidden Hut at Porthcurnick and the Porthminster Beach Café in St Ives particularly noteworthy. n
visitcornwall.com
Penlee House
Penlee House
UNIQUE
getaways
From woodland cabins to fairytale castles, take a break from the everyday in a captivating retreat
WORDS SARA EMSLIE
Indulge the senses and play out any fantasies of living in an enchanting home, whether it is a weekend escape for two or a special occasion with a group of family and friends.
From coastland to countryside, there are plenty of one-of-a-kind properties in which to stay in England. At one end of the spectrum are the architectural gems such as windmills, castles, follies and other intriguing structures that have been meticulously transformed into places to stay and are as luxurious and indulgent as they are quirky. While at the other end are the more ‘back to nature’ yet no less enticing glamping yurts and shepherd huts. So book a stay and be sure to wander further afield and enjoy all that the surrounding area has to offer, too.
STAY IN A CASTLE
Metaphorically speaking an Englishman’s home, they say, is his castle. For most, the real thing is well out of reach as a permanent residence, but for a weekend stay or a little longer it can be achieved. Many of England’s historic forts, keeps (single towers or larger fortified buildings) and castles have been painstakingly restored and now offer attractive holiday options for all, from couples to larger gatherings. Wyatt Castle on the Dorset Coast is ideal for a very special reunion with friends, family members or as a glamorous wedding venue. Designed in the late 18th century by architect James Wyatt, the castle is grand in every way, with an ornate, Gothic-style exterior, beautiful tropical gardens and views out over the English Channel, just perfect for creating memorable photos. Inside, luxury abounds with nine bedrooms sleeping up to 20 guests. The reception rooms include a stylish drawing room and a dining room for formal entertaining, and there’s even an indoor heated swimming pool as the perfect finishing touch. Spa treatments and a private chef can be organised on request, ideal for making any celebratory occasion all the more special for everyone.
Wyatt Castle, Portland, Dorset. Sleeps 20, from £8,940 for 3 nights. Tel 01242 383708; bighouseexperience.com
STAY IN A YURT
Feel closer to nature by spending a night or two in a well-appointed yurt. These days, there is no need to head to faraway prairie landscapes to enjoy this unusual experience, nor is there a need to sacrifice many home comforts. Think of a yurt as a glamping-style experience that replaces groundsheets and leaky tents with voluminous baths, suitably positioned to linger over a view, and the comfort of underfloor heating to pad across post-soak.
The Sail House Yurt on The Pengelly Retreat, Cornwall, strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and luxury with natural-style interiors, decadent touches and a location that allows for easy exploration of the county’s superb sandy beaches, all just a 20-minute drive away.
Boasting an idyllic private lakeside setting, it has its own paddleboard tied up at the pontoon for guests to enjoy. Spend warm summer evenings in the doubleseated hammock on the sundeck or, for winter stays, there is a wood-burning stove and a film projector for cosy cinema nights. Specifically designed for two, the yurt is a romantic retreat whatever the weather.
The Sail House Yurt, Pengelly Retreat, Cornwall. Sleeps 2, from £119 a night. Tel 0117 204 7830; canopyandstars.co.uk
STAY IN A TREEHOUSE
Think big and beautiful when considering a stay in a treehouse because, thanks to modern architectural thinking, the notion of the tiny makeshift cabin in the branches of an overgrown tree has been given a very grand and grown-up makeover here.
Verte is a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) award-winning property nestled in acres of woodland on the Chevithorne Barton Estate – home to the UK’s largest and most comprehensive collection of oak trees – near Tiverton, Devon and delivers everything a nature-lover could crave. Access is easy, with no rickety wooden ladder required. Instead, the unique angular design, set into a hillside and beautifully clad in larch, cleverly links the property with the wildflower meadow at the rear while rising outwards, high over the lakeside setting at the front. A glass wall of picture windows provides spectacular panoramic woodland views.
Become lost in the moment and enjoy being up in the canopy with the birdsong or climb into the wood-fired hot tub with a sundowner and breathe in the fresh forest air. Luxury abounds indoors and out, and it is perfectly placed for long coastal hikes, wild swims and stargazing.
Verte, Chevithorne, Devon. Sleeps 10, from £3,795 a week, £2,995 a short break. Tel 01637 881183; uniquehomestays.com
STAY IN A WINDMILL
The idea of living in a windmill is one like no other, so be inspired by classic films such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and make the dream a reality – a true escape from the everyday. These iconic, former working towers of food production are historic architectural joys to behold and, of course, to spend the night in. Tall and slender by design, there will be plenty of stairs to climb, but the reward is often a room at the very top with a far-reaching view.
Spread over three floors and lovingly restored, Old Smock Mill in the village of Benenden, Kent is a handsome example. The Meal Floor contains the openplan kitchen, dining and living area, with stairs to the luxurious bedroom on the Stone Floor. From here, a spiral staircase leads up to the bathroom on the Dust Floor, where vistas out over the Garden of England can be enjoyed and the original internal workings of the mill are also on show, making for a very characterful soak indeed.
A wide external oak staging encircling the mill on the Meal Floor makes a wonderful spot for al fresco dining. Head out on bicycles to explore the area or simply relax in the garden and imagine life as a miller in this charming idyll that speaks of rustic charm in abundance at every level.
Old Smock Mill, Benenden, Kent. Sleeps 2, from £195 a night (minimum two nights). Tel 01702 567928; hostunusual.com
STAY IN A FARMHOUSE
‘When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life,’ wrote Samuel Johnson in the late 1700s. Today, seeking an indulgent break away from any urban metropolis for some exhilarating activities in the fresh air has never been easier with many country properties now offering luxury interiors and in areas with plenty to see and do.
Nightingale farmhouse in the picturesque Derbyshire Dales ticks all the boxes. Set within the grounds of a country estate and working sheep farm, it commands stunning views over pastoral landscapes. The lawned garden is ideal for a spot of croquet, and leads to orchards and private parkland. In summer, roses ramble over the red-brick exterior and French windows open onto the terrace, while in the winter months, roaring log fires provide comfort.
Elegantly decorated interiors abound throughout, complemented by a large period-style kitchen, comfortable sitting room and two bedrooms which accommodate up to four guests. Nightingale is superbly placed to enjoy the area’s scenic walks, so pack a pair of walking boots. It is also within visiting distance of the magnificent Chatsworth House and the National Trust’s Kedleston Hall, so is ideal for interior design buffs. n
Nightingale, Derbyshire Dales. Sleeps 4, from £1,380 for a long weekend or midweek break. Tel 01872 553491; boutique-retreats.co.uk
BULLGHYLL HUT, KIRKBY STEPHEN, CUMBRIA
Small but sublimely stylish, this shepherd’s hut boasts interiors by Soho House designer Georgina Rose. Sleeps 2, from £110 a night; kiphideaways.com
THE ROUND HOUSE, SUFFOLK (below)
This circular former shooting lodge and gamekeeper’s cottage lies in a woodland glade close to Fairy Lake on the Ickfield Estate and is now an enchanting and unique place to stay.
Sleeps 6, from £649 for 3 nights; nationaltrust.org.uk
APRIL COTTAGE, CHAGFORD, DEVON
Enjoy a fairytale escape in a chocolate-box thatched cottage full of whimsical charm set in the pretty village of Drewsteignton in Dartmoor National Park. Sleeps 4, from £599 for a long weekend to £1,673 for a week; boutique-retreats.co.uk
EAST BANQUETING HOUSE, OLD CAMPDEN HOUSE, CHIPPING CAMPDEN, GLOUCESTERSHIRE
A meticulously restored historic building of Jacobean splendour in the heart of the idyllic Cotswolds.
Sleeps 6, from £562 for 3 nights; landmarktrust.org.uk
1 ARLINGTON ROW, BIBURY, GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Once part of a 14th-century monastic wool store, this cottage is part of the iconic Arlington Row in Bibury, described by William Morris no less as the most beautiful village in England.
Sleeps 6, from £650 for 3 nights; nationaltrust.org.uk
HANSA, WESTON-UNDER-LIZARD, SHROPSHIRE
Live like Hansel and Gretel for the weekend or longer in a gingerbread-house-like woodland folly by the lake. Pure fantasy combined with luxurious touches and utterly charming.
Sleeps 2, from £1,450 a week or £1,095 for short breaks; uniquehomestays.com
(above)
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My English Home
Actress, producer and philanthropist Donna Air on living in a stylishly converted tractor barn, restored using upcycled and reclaimed materials throughout
Who do you live with and where?
I live in the Cotswolds, in Oxfordshire, with my dog, Molly, a Lhasa Apso. She’s 16-and-a-half and still going strong. I am sure it’s because we tell her she is young and beautiful every day!
As my daughter, Freya, travels so much with her work for the Aspinall Foundation and various fashion projects, I almost have an empty nest these days! Another house move may be imminent, but this has been the most unique house I have ever lived in. It’s brilliantly located just one-and-a-half hours from London, and close to all the Cotswolds fun.
What kind of English home do you have?
I have an unusual home which used to be a tractor showroom before it was reimagined
by the brilliant building and design
firm Javelin Block – I’ve always been drawn to unique places. I love a lot of light and a sense of space and can’t bear feeling claustrophobic. The house has big, Crittall windows, and one of my greatest joys is waking up to the sunrise and winding down with the sunset. Mostly everything in the house is upcycled or restored, so it’s a beautiful mix of old and new, which is exactly how I like it.
How long have you lived in the house, and what sort of work have you done to it?
I’ve lived here for nearly five years, and when I moved in, I focused on bringing more colour and personality to the place. I was working with Stacey Dooley on
‘The house has big, Crittall windows, and one of my greatest joys is waking up to the sunrise and winding down with the sunset’
2:22 A Ghost Story in the West End at the time, and we discovered we have similar taste when it comes to interiors. She was designing a range of colours for COAT Paints, so I tried quite a few, with my favourite being Mersey Sundown, which I have in my bathroom.
When it comes to furniture, my style is eclectic, and I love sourcing pieces from French markets as well as 1stDibs.
Linen is my other obsession. Favourite brands include Loretta Caponi and Tara Bernerd’s collection for Frette. Tara’s a friend, and the collaboration is beautiful. I also have a lot of pieces from Oka, having used their interior design service.
What is your favourite space in the house and why?
Definitely the kitchen. All the good stuff happens in the kitchen, and it’s where I am most productive — I love to cook, work, and even have a dance after dinner there! I always make sure I have a speaker at the ready.
What should no English Home be without?
A dog! Molly is my most treasured possession. I’ve never held much attachment to material things – my motto is ‘easy come, easy go’. While there are things I like more than others, I always value people far more. The dog is the only thing I’d save in a fire, and maybe my coffee machine! I named it after my old butler Miles! These days my life is much more simple. ■
