Home comforts

Welcome, lovely Luxe readers, to my new column! I’m Kerry; an interior stylist, blogger and content creator, who can usually be found styling spaces over on Instagram and creating content for both small and large brands. I live in Northumberland with my husband, two children and our crazy dog! You can read more about me and my home at kerrylockwoodindetail.co.uk

Gatsby Art Deco Headboard and Ottoman Base, from £898, steno.co.uk

Best buy... I’m currently searching for a new bed to give our bedroom more of a luxe, hotelstyle feel. I want something that’s cosy, soft and inviting, but also something that adds glamour. That’s not much to ask for, is it?! I’m torn between these two beauties. The question is, do I go for a 1920s art-deco style (above), or a more timeless, classic style (below)? I’m still undecided!

Beatrice Panelled Headboard Upholstered Bed, from £1,169, love-your-home.co.uk

My space... I’ve just given my living room a fresh new look and I’m so happy with the transformation. I’ve always thought that painting was one of the most transformative things that you can do to a room, but we’ve just had Amtico flooring fitted and I’m now a total convert. It feels so fresh and clean. I’ve also had a good de-clutter, resulting in a more minimal aesthetic. I chose a soft white paint for both the walls and woodwork and it looks super fresh - perfect as spring approaches.

See more of Cara’s new build home on Instagram by following @carasuthers

Question time... Q: We have just moved into a new-build home, which is a complete blank canvas. Where do we start? @ellie_gracelangton via Instagram A: New builds are great blank canvasses for decorating, but knowing where to start can feel quite daunting. One of the big challenges is injecting personality into a new build, as the rooms can feel quite boxy. Don’t be afraid to decorate. Adding colour, pattern and wall art is a great way to start and to bring a space to life. New builds lack original features, but you could replicate this to add character by adding moulding to one or more walls, installing coving, a fireplace, or even building a faux chimney breast. Finally, add lots of texture using cushions, rugs and open shelving.

For more than 70 years, Barker and Stonehouse has been selling stylish and inspirational furnishings and accessories. Taking their cue from natural materials and rich cultures, the latest collections are all brought together through Barker and Stonehouse’s passion for creativity and individuality. Here, Claire Hornby, Head of Creative at Barker and Stonehouse, talks through some of this season’s key trends, including Earthy Escape, Naturally Neutral and Urban Culture.

EARTHY ESCAPE Characterised by rich, warm tones and natural materials, Earthy Escape combines a range of tactile textures including cane, wooden finishes, weathered leathers and muted fabrics, capturing the organic beauty of these earth-born materials. Claire Hornby comments: “The use of earthy colours, natural materials and woven rattan finishes are a huge trend this year. “This look is all about individuality, everything is perfectly imperfect, and no two pieces are exactly the same. The use of vibrant terracotta tones and handcrafted textiles, combined with a variety of wood finishes creates a look that is sympathetic in its nature.” “Don’t be afraid to introduce dark tones. This will not only create a sense of depth and drama but will also help to create a focal point, whether this be through an accessory such as a dark mango wood lamp, or the softly textured leather of an armchair - evoking a rich history of faraway places.”

URBAN CULTURE Finally, taking you on a journey across the world, Urban Culture showcases a fusion of African, Indian and Asian influences bring a sense of adventure that draws on globally inspired design motifs through weaves, patterns and carvings. The palette of tonal greens and rich conker-coloured leathers, coupled with raw monochrome surfaces, presents an industrial take on this craft-heavy look. Claire Hornby comments: “At the heart of this look, is an array of majestic artworks, contemporary velvet accents and handcrafted sculptures, that create a pleasingly artisanal

abstract space. A great base for this look would be wooden or slate flooring onto which you can layer beautiful rugs, for comfort and warmth.” “Use warm natural tones, such as ochre, teal and warm browns, and offset these with cooler shades such as chalk and ebony. The key is to select one or two key pieces, whether this be an accessory or larger piece of furniture, that will form a dramatic centrepiece for your room. One of our beautiful carved sideboards accessorised with chunky pottery and tribal carvings would do the trick – styling like this can really bring a wow factor with minimal effort.”

NATURALLY NEUTRAL Adding to the company’s evolving palette, Naturally Neutral takes inspiration from Scandinavian design. This look presents a sense of comfort, tranquillity and harmony. The combination of coastal-inspired, washed woods, chunky knits, fringed rugs and faux fur furnishings create an atmosphere that is cosy and inviting. The pared-back palette of biscuit, cream, grey and tan, is enlivened by rich wooden tones and subtle ethnic patterns. Claire Hornby, added: “By using natural and organic tones, this look allows a sense of comfort to take centre-stage. Along with texture, another way to bring this trend to life is through the use of pattern. Subtle repeating motifs in soft hues work particular well here and won’t compromise the sense of calm.” “Opting to use a neutral palette, doesn’t mean limiting yourself to just one colour. By layering different shades of the same colour, such as a range of pale greys or creams, you can create a sophisticated scheme that leaves the space feeling calm, whilst also adding depth and warmth.”

Set within idyllic woodland at the heart of the Tees Valley, Wynyard Park opens the door to a fantastic quality of life with a thriving village concept that includes its own shops, school, healthcare, pub, and transportation.

No one welcomes spring with open paws like us pooches. Birdsong brings new life to the day, lighter nights mean play dates in the garden, and that sprinkling of early sunshine means spring shenanigans, staycations and setting goals for the busy season. With spring comes new beginnings, so with that in mind, I’m enjoying a bit of poochy pampering with my top picks for the new season. I’ve got canine cosmetics for the home covered, but I’ve also sniffed out some of the top spots in the region when it comes to checking in at the doggy salon. All of that, and a catch up with my new furry friend at Luxe HQ. I’m is barking mad about the beautiful Lottie - a caramel cocker spaniel with dreamy puppy eyes and long curly locks. Here’s to a season of sunny days, spring blooms and super poochy moments! Alfie, your Luxe pooch x

Step into spring with cool kit, canine cologne, and all the pampering products your pooch will love this season

<< WILD & WOLF Wild & Woofy Dog Grooming Kit, £20, store.wildandwolf.co.uk

For our furry friends who like to live the luxe life…

HUMPHREY AND HOUND >> Located in Jesmond, this poochy paradise is a go-to spot for owners looking to get the best of both worlds. While your canine companion is treated to a luxury treatment or two, the option to indulge in a little ‘me time’ next door at their sister hair salon, Humphrey and Wilson, is a must. Why compromise when you can have it all? facebook.com/humphreyandhound

NOSE 2 TAIL >> A pampered pooch is a happy pooch! The full works is on offer at Nose 2 Tail and each pup is given their own bespoke package tailored to suit their needs. A dog’s coat, skin and lifestyle are all taken into consideration while discussing pampering requirements. This Malton based doggy parlour is ideal for those looking for that little extra TLC. nose2tailgrooming.co.uk

HOUNDS OF HARROGATE >> If like us, your four-legged friend deserves nothing but the best, then Hounds of Harrogate should be on your radar. The luxury pet company renowned for their 100% natural and ethically sourced poochy products, has introduced a whole range of services including, dog walking, doggy day care and dog grooming. houndsofharrogate.com

HADRIAN PET HOTEL >> Going away and worried about your furry friend? Fear not, The Hadrian Pet Hotel in Matfen is on standby – because yes, it’s a hard life chasing your tail and our pets deserve a break away too. Once checked in, your pet will be treated to luxury accommodation, given access to playground facilities and can be pampered in the on-site grooming parlour. hadrianpethotel.co.uk

MUNGO & MAUD >> Petite Amande Dog Fragrance, £47.50, cuckooland.com

CUCKOOLAND >> Laboni Delano Dog Bed, £450, cuckooland.com

MUNGO & MAUD >> Check Bone Dog Towel, Natural/ Check, £56.50, cuckooland.com

Lottie is an English cocker spaniel living it up in Newcastle city centre. Her usual hangouts include The Tyne Bar, By The River Brew and Jesmond Dene. She enjoys getting her paws sandy on the beach, leaping through daffodils in the fields and the occasional day as a ‘working cocker’ at Luxe HQ.

LUXE WALKS >> My daily stroll along the Quayside is a must – made even better when I pop in to one of my favourite pit-stops for a pint or two. For a treat, I enjoy a day chasing the waves at Tynemouth’s King Edward’s Bay or sniffing out some fresh scents in Jesmond Dene.

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> Every day is a Saturday in pooch life, but with the humans home and plenty going on in the city I call home, I love a weekend café-hopping afternoon, followed by a long walk on the beach or out in the fields. I’m a city girl at heart, but love to explore the coast and countryside, too. DOGGY DOWNTIME >> I’m a busy pooch, but nothing beats a bit of ‘me time’, cuddling my favourite partridge toy (my very first Christmas present). A dog-friendly Spotify playlist helps me relax and find my calm. Want to check it out? Search ‘Dog Calming Music’ on Spotify. Bliss!

HOUND HABBITS >> I keep the humans on their toes by stealing cardboard from the bins in the block of flats that I live in. I also love to run away with door-stops, but can’t seem to understand why I always end up locked in a room?!

PUPPY PAMPER >> I get my long locks brushed once or twice a week – those curly ears don’t style themselves! I check in at the doggy salon for a proper pamper once a month.

DOG’S BEST FRIEND >> I love to visit Luxe HQ and hang out with the gang. Plenty of treats and cuddles to keep me entertained…

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> I’m kind of a big deal in Newcastle, if you didn’t already know. After sharing my adventures on my very own Instagram page @LifeByLottie, I’ve been spotted once or twice in the city. Follow my antics – you’ll fall in love too!

PUPPY A-LISTER >> With my iconic brows… definitely Cara Delevingne! I’m quite stylish, too.

Hello Spring! Boost your wellbeing and experience the Spa at Rockliffe Hall this spring. Winner of Best Spa for Wellness at the Good Spa Guide Awards. Live the Rockliffe life.