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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.
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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.
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
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
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
Decorating a bedroom a child will love to call their own demands a careful balance between practicality and creative ingenuity
FEATURE SARA EMSLIE
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.’
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