MO RE INSPIR AT I O NA L HOM E S T HA N AN Y OT HER MAGA ZINE

25 BEAUTIFUL
HOMESA REFINED TOUCH
SOCIAL STYLE LIGHTING
Open-plan interiors & HEATING
made for entertaining Elegant solutions
Gorgeous family you’ll want on your
kitchens mood board

SNUG & SMART

AUTUMNAL IDEAS
Be inspired by rich colours, cosy
layers and luscious textures
 NOVEMBER 2021

25 BEAUTIFUL
HOMES
MORE IN SPIRATIO NAL H O M E S TH AN AN Y OTHE R M AG AZINE
no. 1
A Dutch farmhouse has
been given a chic
makeover with a
British style twist (p8)

no. 2
A Tudor barn with a
no. 3
This Victorian semi has
no. 4
A couple decided to
no. 5
The renovation of an
no. 6
The owner relocated
contemporary country timeless schemes that downsize and turn a 18th-century property to the UK and trusted
look complements its will never go out of rural abode into their turned out to be a a designer to create a
traditional features (p16) fashion (p23) forever home (p29) family affair (p36) beautiful home (p40)

no. 7
After falling in love with
no. 8
An interior designer
no. 9
A long-distance
no. 10
This run-down
no. 11
A skilled team of
this historic home, the reveals how she renovation breathed townhouse has had a experts helped turn a
owner set out to give it a redecorated a Georgian new life into an old classic makeover with an tired rural idyll into a
modern touch (p46) townhouse (p50) English vicarage (p57) Eastern influence (p62) welcoming home (p68)

4 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 12
Tall rooms with
no. 13
This townhouse is the
no. 14
A converted church
no. 15 no. 16
Luxurious yet lived-in This Victorian-inspired
elegant proportions perfect showcase for boasts original features was the design brief new build effortlessly
are celebrated in this the owner’s decorative and wonderfully light for this listed Queen blends comfort and
Edwardian villa (p74) antiques and art (p78) spaces (p86) Anne-style house (p91) practicality (p96)

no. 17
The owner’s eye for
no. 18
Creative touches and
no. 19
How an interior
no. 20
A couple took on an
no. 21
An open-plan kitchen-
design brought style vintage finds give designer transformed ambitious renovation living area in a barn
and character to this this terrace a unique a city penthouse into – and their hard work conversion is perfect
Victorian villa (p100) personality (p106) a chic retreat (p111) has paid off (p117) for entertaining (p124)

no. 22
The owners wanted a
no. 23
Marble and bronze are
no. 24
Vibrant wallpaper is
no. 25
A loft conversion has
Room Envy
A hotel with a focus
brighter, more cheerful paired with velvet and the star of the show in provided this family on holistic living to
look for their 17th- silk in this home’s chic this home’s revamped with the perfect retreat help you feel rested
century cottage (p128) sitting room (p133) bedroom (p136) they so needed (p140) and restored (p146)

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 5
 EDITOR’S LET TER | 25bh

25 BEAUTIFUL
HOMES
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Sarah Spiteri
Homes Editor Fiona Mace

WELCOME
Group Creative Director Emma Williams
Group Chief Sub Editor Jennifer Spaeth
Content and Product Development Director Michael Holmes
Brand Development Director Laura Crombie
Homes Content Team Editorial Director Rhoda Parry

Group Art Director Alison Walter

Deputy Art Director Emma Jackson A surprising number of the houses we see at 25 Beautiful Homes are from
Art Editors Melanie Brown and Paula Jardine
Head of Subs Operations Maxine Clarke
Hub Chief Sub Editor Carly Rigley
homeowners who had spent years moving around and were looking to
Senior Sub Editors Marian McNamara and Karen Wiley
put down roots. This issue is no exception. Nancy Garland was living
MANAGEMENT
Senior Vice President, Womens, Homes & Country in Hong Kong when she found a Georgian townhouse in Bath that she
Sophie Wybrew-Bond
Managing Director of Homes Jason Orme knew had the potential to make a perfect family home (p62). Despite
Chief Audience & Ecommerce Officer Aaron Asadi
Finance Director Mags & Subs Dan Jotcham
SVP Global Operations & Marketforce Adrian Hughes
having to manage the refurbishment from 6,000 miles away, she has
SYNDICATION transformed the interior, blending Eastern influences with classic
Sales Executive Efi Mandrides (efi[email protected])

CIRCULATION
English style. Similarly, Catherine Martel had travelled all over the
Circulation Manager Katie Greenan
([email protected]) world and her priority was to ‘settle down and create a family home for
MARKETING generations to come’. See the results on p23. Holly and Al Hartley had
Head of Marketing Sian Cupid ([email protected])
Deputy Head of Marketing Laura Timms also been on the move for years. The farmhouse they settled in (p68)
([email protected])

ADVERTISING has given them the ‘sense of peace’ they’d been searching for. We hope
Commercial Director Rob Biagioni ([email protected])
Head of Homes Nicola Ponting this issue will inspire you to create whatever ‘home’ means to you.
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Brand Director Rebecca Vincze
([email protected]) FIONA MACE, HOMES EDITOR
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2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 7
 COMING TOGETHER
A sophisticated mix of colour and pattern has ensured a graceful
new identity for Leonoor van Bueren’s farmhouse
FEATURE JULIET BENNING | PHOTOGRAPHY THIJS & WILLEMIJN DE LEEUW OF SPACE CONTENT STUDIO/LIVING INSIDE

8 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 1

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
Renovated farmhouse
L O C AT I O N Holland
R O O M S Sitting room, kitchen,
utility room, games room, six
bedrooms, four bathrooms,
large attic room
P U R C H A S E D 2020
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘We also have a house in Rye,
New York State, where all the
kids go to school,’ says Leonoor.

KITCHEN
The pattern on the
bar stools is the perfect
foil to the more subdued
colours in the room.
Cabinetry, built and
designed by YDK Wonen
and Boekweit Keukens. Bar
stools, custom designed by
YDK Wonen; upholstered in
Chrysler in Marine, price on
request, Gancedo. Candle
Fusion chandelier by Stout
Verlichting, €3,949, Home
By Roger. Pottery, Des Pots

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 9
SITTING ROOM
Steel-framed doors allow
the space and light to flow
freely. Deep purple tones
accent the neutral palette.
Curtains in Vesubio , price
on request, Gancedo. Sofa
and coffee table made by
Keijser & Co. Try Noida
floor-standing lamps,
from £175, Royal Design.
Armchairs by YDK Wonen;
upholstered in Uluru Lila,
price on request, Gancedo
 DESIGN TIP ‘Start collecting art. It doesn’t
have to be expensive but accumulating it and
hanging it over time will add soul to your home’

HALLWAY
A merlot-coloured
sisal wallcovering and
brass wall lights strike
a luxurious note
immediately upon arrival.
Shang extra-fine sisal
wallpaper in Plum by
Thibaut, £228 a roll, Jane
Clayton. Butterfly wall lights,
£247 each, available at
Nordic Nest. Mahaut marble
console table, £299, La
Redoute. Artwork by
Marjanka Jonkers

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 11
 MAIN BATHROOM
A deep free-standing
tub offers a relaxing
retreat for Leonoor .
Inset shelves were put in
for display space.
Clearwater Formoso Piccolo
ClearStone bath, £1,699.95,
Victorian Plumbing, is
similar. Milano Clarus
free-standing tap, £499.99
at Big Bathroom Shop,
has this look

LAST WORD
‘Make your home
your own. I’ve never
understood why
people want to live
in somewhere
that looks like
a hotel lobby’

12 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
L
eonoor van Bueren can’t explain
what it was that captured her
imagination so clearly when she first
viewed the home she would share
with her husband Thijs Hovers and their
combined family of six children. ‘It wasn’t the
prettiest house from the outside and the
hallway was very dark, but I immediately had
this feeling that it could be a fantastic home
for us,’ Leonoor recalls. ‘There were so many
crazy things going on, like an extra kitchen
and corridors everywhere, but I knew with a
new layout, these problems could be solved,’
she adds. The house is located in the small
village not far from Amsterdam where Thijs
grew up and still has family. Intended as a
Dutch base for the entire family to enjoy,
their main home is in Rye, New York State. DRESSING ROOM
Bespoke built-in cabinetry was
put neatly under the eaves.
BRITISH TWIST Cabinetry designed by YDK Wonen
The couple called on interior designer Yvon
de Keizer of YDK Wonen (ydkwonen.nl), BATHROOM
An antique mirror and floral
having worked with her on a rental property wallpaper contrast with a
and their holiday home in Palm Beach. contemporary wall-hung vanity.
Veering away from the more traditionally Chrysanthemum wallpaper, Morris
Dutch minimalist furnishings and white wall & Co, £88 a roll, available at Jane
Clayton. Afsan aged golden round
look, Yvon has always been inspired by mirror, £64, La Redoute, would work
British interior styles. ‘I prefer a classic look
with plenty of print and wallpaper. I love MAIN BEDROOM
The wallpaper is the star here.
brands like Jane Churchill, Cole & Son and Desmond wallpaper in Navy by
William Morris,’ she reveals. Brass handles, Thibaut, £122.40 a roll, Jane Clayton
slick cabinetry and black steel-framed doors
ensure the look is fresh and relevant. BATHROOM
Gold fittings match the warm
While Yvon stayed on the ground in tones in the wallpaper.
Holland overseeing the project, the family Caligone mirror, £210, La Redoute,
found themselves stranded in a pandemic would suit this space
lockdown. ‘We really made the best of the
BEDROOM
quarantine in our own little tribe. We had so Natural textures add a cosy feel.
much fun and there was always something Bedding, from a selection, Hema
going on but we were unable to travel so we
relied on Yvon sending photos and videos to
keep us updated on progress,’ Leonoor says.

HOME FROM HOME

With restrictions lifting in the early summer
of 2021, the family were finally able to return
to Holland to see Leonoor’s vision realised.
While the sumptuous front hall strikes a
demure mood, the huge island bar in the
kitchen and delightfully inviting sofas in the
sitting room encourage boisterous socialising.
In the garden, trees were cut back to allow in
more light. ‘We have an artificial grass lawn
at the front of the house many of our friends
thought we should get rid of, but it’s been
brilliant for the children who love soccer and
hockey,’ says Leonoor. Combining beauty
with practicality, this robust and spacious
home will continue to be a fantastic backdrop
for a new shared history.
 TUDOR tale
Helena and Michael Forbes’ barn was once transported
from East Sussex and rebuilt in the New Forest – now it’s
full of furnishings that complement its stunning features
FEATURE KAREN JENSEN-JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY NICK SMITH | STYLIST LAURA SABOGAL

16 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 2

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
A Tudor barn adjoining a
thatched yeoman’s house
L O C AT I O N Hampshire
P U R C H A S E D 2020
R O O M S Sitting room/dining
area, kitchen, cloakroom,
mezzanine bedroom, bathroom
P R E V I O U S H O M E ‘We
lived in a London townhouse
before moving here,’ says Helena.

SITTING ROOM
The beautiful stained-glass window was
the starting point for the scheme.
‘It’s such an incredible feature,’ says
interior designer Jess McDonald.
Bluebell armchairs, £990 each, Sofa.com.
Horses in a Thunderstorm by Sawrey Gilpin
(above the fireplace), price on request,
Surface View. Custom-made chests,
£1,000 each, Scumble Goosie

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 17
 SITTING ROOM
Creating different zones in this big space
has helped it to feel welcoming.
Round animal prints, £185 each, India Jane.
Otto three-seater sofa in Canvas Pure
Belgian Linen, £2,590, Sofa.com. Custom-
made pouffe covered in Fermoie Quantock
Green, £135m, Bergamot Interiors

18 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
W
hen Helena Forbes
and her husband
Michael decided to
return to the New
Forest, where they had both grown
up, they viewed a house which dated
back to the 1550s. However it was
the adjoining Tudor barn that really
caught their attention.
Formal records revealed that the
barn had been transported from East
Sussex in the late 1990s to its current
site and was painstakingly rebuilt
down to the last wooden beam. ‘The
property was in really good condition
and lovingly looked after by its previous
owners,’ says Helena, ‘but it needed
updating and we wanted to create
a contemporary, country look to
complement the traditional Tudor
features.’ Helena had some colours
and ideas in mind but it was interior
designer Jess McDonald of Bergamot
Interiors who was instrumental in
bringing the scheme together.
Helena had worked with Jess
on a previous home and was confident
she would thoughtfully bridge the KITCHEN
gap between the traditional and The choice of vibrant green on both
contemporary. ‘Jess suggested we cabinets and wooden beams
is a successful solution for creating
begin by responding to the original
an authentic updated look.
features of the barn and the impressive Vintage Mint No 91 paint in eggshell, £73
stained glass window in the sitting for 2.5ltr, Designers Guild, is a similar colour
room was the ideal starting point,’
remembers Helena. Picking out the
red from the 15ft window depicting FAVOURITE RO OM ‘Although the sitting room is
Noah’s Ark was slightly concerning
for Helena, who had been imagining cavernous, it’s also very cosy with all the
cooler hues of blue and green for soft furnishings, art and lighting’
the sitting room. ‘Jess suggested a
chestnut red for the fender around
the lovely fireplace to add a colourful
accent and bring the softer hues in the
room to life,’ she says. ‘I never thought
I would agree to anything red but it’s
so subtle and well thought out that it’s
helped me to understand the importance
of using bolder colour.’

KITCHEN UTILITY
The characterful AREA
original features, There wasn’t room
including the bolted for a separate utility
wooden door and so unobtrusive
arched windows, appliances have
are complemented been placed in a
with a classic sink corner of the kitchen
and brass taps. to create a practical
Original fluted Belfast yet pretty solution.
sink, around £500, Villiers Grey flagstone
Vinterior. You can find tiles, from £125sq m,
similar original brass Flagstones Direct,
taps at Lassco would give this look

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 19
 Colour was also key in the kitchen
where units and beams have been
daringly painted in a vibrant green. ‘We
love the colour of the kitchen cabinets
and it’s quite unusual to go a step further
and paint the beams,’ explains Helena.
‘The idea really exemplifies the perfect
combination of traditional features being
updated with a contemporary finish.’
Jess continued this process in the
sitting room through soft furnishings,
using plain linen fabric for relaxed
contemporary curtains with an elegant
double trim in a nod to the traditional.
‘She really understood our brief and
was able to combine the two elements
in a refined way,’ says Helena.
With such an unusual amount
of wood, a huge pitched ceiling and
limited mezzanine space for the
bedroom and bathroom, the project
was not without its challenges. ‘It was
difficult to get the different height
pitches to work together, particularly in
the compact mezzanine,’ remembers
Helena. ‘We also had to compromise
with a double bed instead of our
preferred choice of kingsize in order MAIN BEDROOM
not to overcrowd the space.’ Jess created a more luxurious
Downstairs the space was cavernous environment to compensate
for the lack of space.
and Helena was keen to create a cosy
Adeline bedspread, £599,
and comfortable sitting room. ‘Sofas, Soho Home. Set of nine Summer
sideboards and lamps are all bespoke Garden framed prints, £395, Oka
because the proportions of the room
are so big,’ she says. ‘We found a local
antique clock dealer and bought a FAVOURITE SHOP ‘Jess introduced me to Home
grandfather clock and, in another nod to
the Noah’s Ark stained glass window, Barn and it’s one of those places where you always
animal prints line the walls.’ unearth something special. I could browse for hours’
Every detail of the interior has been
as lovingly restored as the barn itself was
when it was so carefully transported to
the New Forest. ‘It’s such a characterful
home and so unique as it tells its own
story through its structure and history,’
says Helena. ‘It wouldn’t have felt right
to make it too contemporary so we gave
it very special, careful treatment as it
really was a purchase of the heart.’

CLOAKROOM
‘We really loved BATHROOM
the old high-level An armchair is the
toilet and couldn’t ultimate luxury in
find anything we a wash space.
liked more to replace Old London bath
it so we decided to is similar, £649.27,
leave it in place,’ Victorian Plumbing.
says Helena. Greyhound chair,
Similar high-level £450, Andrew
toilet in various Martin. Antique
colours, from £1,100, elm saddle stool,
Beautiful Toilets £140, Home Barn

20 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 3
A TRUE CLASSIC
Catherine Martel’s innate sense of style has given her family home
a beautiful look that will never go out of fashion
FEATURE SUSAN SPRINGATE | PHOTOGRAPHY NICK SMITH

SITTING ROOM
A combination of inherited furniture and modern pieces give
the room a distinct character.
Cassina LC2 sofa, £5,916; chairs, £3,100 each, Twentytwentyone.
Flos Arco floor lamp, £1,691, The Conran Shop. Gae Aulenti
coffee table, £1,000 at auction

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 2 3
 S
tep across the threshold of Catherine ‘As soon as we had finished the
Martel and her husband Damian’s renovation, we invited the neighbours
late Victorian home and you over for drinks. We were struck by how
instantly feel welcomed into its many of them had lived here for years,
HOME TRUTHS warm embrace. yet hadn’t met each other. We started
A chequered tiled hallway leads through our supper clubs to connect people.’
THE PROPERTY
Victorian semi-detached house
double doors to the huge expanse of the The atmosphere wasn’t always quite
L O C AT I O N ground floor, where the sitting room, study, so hospitable. When Catherine bought
Southwest London kitchen and dining areas flow seamlessly the house eight years ago – over the phone,
R O O M S Sitting room, kitchen- into one another. At the far end, the family’s having seen a similar one nearby – it was
diner/study area, six bedrooms
(two en suite), two bathrooms Hungarian Vizsla, Sidney, can often be a series of smaller rooms on the ground
P U R C H A S E D 2013 found under an impressive oval dining table. floor with a dark kitchen in the middle.
PREVIOUS PROPERTY ‘We love to entertain,’ says Belgian- ‘I’m a strong believer that a home takes
‘Having lived in various countries
born Catherine, who has four children, time,’ says Catherine, a former director
since childhood, I was keen to set
down some roots,’ says Catherine. Mathilda,13, Clémentine, 11, Celeste, 10, of communications for the Mandarin
and Balthazar, seven. Oriental Hotel Group.

2 4 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 KITCHEN
‘A neighbour was getting
rid of this kitchen island
so I grabbed it and set it
on casters just like in
professional kitchens,’
says Catherine. ‘It is great
when you want to make
space for dancing or an extra
dining table at parties.’
Similar butcher’s block
on wheels, £730, Murdoch
Troon Kitchens. Wicker
baskets from a selection at
Ikea, La Redoute, Zara Home.
Vintage dough bowl, £85,
Vintage & Velvet. Wrought
iron candelabra, bought at the
Sablon Antiques Center in
Brussels; similar £217, 1stDibs

DINING AREA
The mismatched chairs
work well around the
circular table, which, like the
armoire, was built on-site
at Catherine’s great-great
aunt’s farmhouse in
Belgium and handed down
through the generations.
DSW side chairs in White,
£331 each; IC F1 floor lamp for
Flos, £510, both The Conran
Shop. Try the Marseilles mirror,
£125, William Wood Mirrors

INSPIR ATION ‘My parents’ sense of style, from their love of

vintage to designer pure linens, definitely impacted on me’
 DECOR ATING TIP ‘It’s very British to paint just one wall a
different colour but it’s an easy, affordable way to refresh a room’

DINING/
STUDY AREA
Oak flooring throughout
gives a sense of flow to the
open-plan ground floor,
where her grandfather’s
‘reading’ table takes
centre stage.
Galleria Professional
engineered rustic oak
flooring, £54.99sq m, UK
Flooring Direct, is similar.
Brass sputnik chandelier,
£819, Litfad, is similar

HALLWAY
A black-and-white
landscape photograph sets
off the original Victorian
chequered tiled flooring.
Hemnes white shoe
cabinets, £75 each, Ikea.
Transparent cordless lamps,
£89 each, Fatboy. Glass
lantern in polished brass,
£259, Kes Lighting, is
similar. Rattan big Luggy
basket, £189.90, Olli Ella

DINING AREA
Opening up the back
of the house has also
helped to make this
space much lighter.
Hand-painted screen (just
seen), £6,000, Ellie Yannas.
The desk and table were
handed down to Catherine

26 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 ‘We thought it was important to alcoves for storage. She rents out the two given these pieces,’ she says. ‘But many of
live here for a while before deciding suites on the top floor and the entire house them are very heavy, so I have lightened it
what to change.’ for holiday lets and film shoots. up with contemporary pieces alongside.’
A leaky roof meant the couple had Without the services of an architect Unified by its predominantly neutral
to re-do the top section of the house and or interior designer, Catherine relied on palette, heirlooms are dotted throughout
then, when Catherine returned home instinct and an innate sense of style. the house, including an artwork by
one day to find the builder had taken ‘I have been immersed in renovation my Impressionist painter Paul Martel, who
away every non-supporting wall on the whole life,’ she explains. ‘We relocated about was Catherine’s great uncle, and her
first floor, she was propelled into a full 30 times when I was little. My parents were grandfather’s roll-top desk in the study.
top-to-toe renovation. always moving and doing up houses and I ‘What’s interesting is that a lot of the
‘It was a shock, but in hindsight, a recall sitting on packing cases while they furniture is English,’ notes Catherine.
huge opportunity, because it forced me to were busily pulling ivy off the walls.’ ‘My family love the English style; my
redistribute the space more efficiently,’ she Her parents’ influence has also dictated grandmother was a huge Anglophile and
says. Four bedrooms, two bathrooms and the aesthetic of the interior thanks to the gave me lots of English crockery, so it’s
a laundry room soon occupied the void, exquisite furniture they have handed down. funny that they have all inadvertently
complete with fitted cupboards and handy ‘We were extremely fortunate to have been found their way home.’
 MAIN BEDROOM BATHROOM MATHILDA’S BEDROOM
A curtain panel at each section of the large bay ‘The bathroom reflects my time spent ‘My teenager’s room is a very crisp aesthetic
window means you can keep some open to let working in the hotel industry: it’s uber – a blank canvas of neutral tones on which she
the light in and some closed for privacy. functional and streamlined, with added can etch her own signature,’ says Catherine.
Sienna rattan bed frame, £1,550, Feather & Black, character in the framed prints,’ says Catherine. Printed cotton duvet set, £24.99; linen
is similar. Bronze yellow velvet bedspread, £170, Double ended Bette Starlet bath, £836, curtains, £99.99, all H&M Home. Micke
La Redoute. Buttons bench, £340, Sofa.com. Aged Sanctuary Bathrooms. Wall-mounted vanity white desk, £60, Ikea. Faux ivy garland,
convex mirror, £219, Maisons du Monde, is similar unit and basin, £239.99, Tap Warehouse cut to length, £14.99, Etsy

2 8 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 4
HOMEWARD BOUND
Childhood memories led interior designer
Sarah Ward to this delightful farmhouse
FEATURE EMMA J PAGE | PHOTOGRAPHY JONATHAN BOND

HOME TRUTHS
T H E P R O P E R T Y Detached
farmhouse, built in 1830
L O C AT I O N Suffolk SITTING ROOM
R O O M S Sitting room, kitchen, A variety of textures, from a
dining room, four bedrooms linen-finished wallcovering
(two en suite), bathroom, to velvet cushions, add depth
separate two-bedroom cottage to this space. Artwork
P U R C H A S E D 2017 gathered from the couple’s
PREVIOUS PROPERTY travels introduces colour.
‘We moved here from a new build Élitis Kandy Her Majesty HPC
in Surrey,’ says Sarah. wallpaper, CV 104 05, £195.50
a roll, Abbott + Boyd

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 2 9
 T
hough moving to a picturesque
part of the Suffolk coast meant
downsizing, it was a challenge that
Sarah Ward and her husband Carl
were keen to take on. The couple were looking
for the right home for the next chapter of their
lives and this rural escape held special memories.
‘I spent part of my childhood in the area, during
the 1960s,’ says Sarah. ‘So there is an appealing
familiarity to this coastal stretch.’
Even though the couple first viewed the
farmhouse during the winter, it didn’t take much
imagination for the interior designer to know
that a great deal could be made of its features,
from the charmingly uneven walls and the
original Georgian glass windows to a garage ripe
for conversion into an overspill cottage.
With a less open-plan layout and smaller
rooms than their previous home, it meant letting
go of a few treasured pieces, but the farmhouse
was still capacious enough to showcase favourite
SITTING ROOM DINING ROOM KITCHEN items, from the linen press in the sitting room to
The French antique Sarah commissioned Sarah’s treasured colourful art collected from around the globe.
bureau, picked up in a wall of joinery, with a collection of copper The couple extended at the rear to create
an antiques shop in contemporary feel, to pans adds a fitting a dining room large enough to accommodate
Dorking, is a favourite enliven this space. patina to this
piece that has travelled Extra Fine Arrowroot country scheme. their blended family of seven grown-up children.
from home to home. wallpaper in Elephant, Walls in Mizzle estate For this, they also adapted their existing dining
Temple Square coffee Phillip Jeffries. Joinery emulsion, £49.50 table, creating a new glass top for the base made
table in gold, price on designed by Ward & Co. for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball.
from petrified wood. Throughout, storage is key:
request, Julian Interiors. Georg Jensen Find a similar set of five
Chichester. Sybil table candleholder, £71,42, copper pans, £125, John the dining room, for example, features floor-to-
lamp, £660, Porta Romana Connox, has this look Lewis & Partners ceiling joinery with open shelving cleverly built

3 0 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
BIGGEST CHALLENGE ‘We waited a long time to secure permission
for the dining room extension – it was crucial to extend
that space so we could accommodate all the family’
 around a window. It houses everything from
tableware and family games to wine and cutlery.
‘Aside from extending the dining room,
most of the work was decorative,’ says Sarah.
‘The house had a lovely sense of peace and
serenity and we wanted to honour that.’ Interiors
schemes have taken their cue from that ethos:
the kitchen has a country feel with its inset
Aga and hanging copper pans, while a tactile
grasscloth wallcovering in the dining room
successfully bridges the gap between traditional
and contemporary. ‘I’m naturally drawn to
spring and autumn colours and those tones are
evident throughout the house,’ reflects Sarah.
Though the couple’s decorative approach
differs at times, with Carl favouring a ‘more-is-
more’ look and Sarah preferring a pared-back
feel, the two have struck a happy balance.
Some of Sarah’s childhood was spent in
Hong Kong, so the farmhouse has also received
an Eastern tweak, from a Chinese cupboard to
MAIN BEDROOM BEDROOM MAIN contemporary lacquered artwork.
This large space is Silver trunks, sourced EN SUITE These days, her business, Ward & Co
decorated in a largely from Lots Road A polished slipper Interiors, has become a family affair, since
neutral palette but has Antiques, have been bath set against a Sarah’s daughter Rosie has stepped into the fore
many layers of texture. inventively repurposed large-scale marble
Shoreline Grass as side tables. wall covering makes a as creative director. ‘We work well together, yet
wallcovering in Wisteria, Walls in Suede Lounge statement in this space. we have different perspectives, which is great,’ she
price on request, Phillip 4324 in Champagne Usk bath, £2,975, says. And with the farmhouse and its adjoining
Jeffries. Reclining Women Wishes, Phillip Jeffries. Drummonds, has this
cottage able to host extended family gatherings,
artwork, Bianca Smith. Bed Cushions, Nikita Citrine, look. Artwork, price
upholstered in Cobbles, £89; Paddy Velvet Citrine, on request, there’s no doubt much to discuss around that
Oxygen COB2/SA, £250m, £79, William Yeoward Trowbridge Gallery generous glass-topped dining table.

3 2 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
INSPIR ATION ‘We were very much led by
the house – we let its layout and architecture
guide the way that we furnished it’
 FAMILY
FAVOURITE
When Melissa and Charlie Jolly found a dilapidated farmhouse ripe
for renovation, they called on their nearest and dearest for help
FEATURE KAREN DARLOW | PHOTOGRAPHY KASIA FISZER | STYLING PIPPA BLENKINSOP

3 6 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 5
M
elissa Jolly and her husband Charlie KITCHEN
never imagined they’d find their Painted Shaker-style cabinetry
new home on their doorstep when creates a classic farmhouse feel.
they began their search. ‘We were ‘I designed the kitchen with help
from my mum Jeanne, who’s an
living close by, in a village near Reading,’ says architect,’ says Melissa.
Melissa, ‘and were looking for another house to Shaker cabinetry, price on request,
renovate. We owned a Victorian semi and wanted British Standard. Cabinets painted
in Hicks’ Blue intelligent eggshell,
somewhere detached, with a larger garden for our £68 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Try
two children, Sam, now 19, and Amelie, now 16. Kitchener 110 range cooker, from
Melissa and Charlie began house-hunting and £1,725, Rangemaster. Aged copper
then fate took a hand. ‘A local farmer happened pendant, £195, Decorexi, has a
HOME TRUTHS similar look
to tell my mum he was selling his father’s old
THE PROPERTY
Farmhouse built in 1780, with
farmhouse - the house I’d grown up next door to,’ DINING AREA
Victorian additions says Melissa. ‘Mum booked a viewing without even There’s plenty of space for the
L O C AT I O N Berkshire telling us about it.’ When Charlie and Melissa went family to gather around the
R O O M S Sitting room, sturdy, rustic-style table.
to view it , they both agreed it was too good an Arundel dining table, from £1,660,
kitchen-diner, study, utility room,
cloakroom, cellar, four bedrooms opportunity to miss. ‘I’d always wanted to live on a Neptune. Similar rustic oak
(two en suite), bathroom farm and it was a great location,’ says Melissa. ‘The bench, from £295, The Old
P U R C H A S E D 2016 Cinema. Reindeer hide rug, from
house had been separated from the rest of the farm £159, Hide Rugs, is similar, Walls in
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
and was up for sale with just under an acre of land, so a similar colour to Skimming Stone
‘We were living in a Victorian
semi nearby,’ says Melissa. it was the ideal size. It had a lovely atmosphere and estate emulsion, £49.50 for 2.5ltr,
we both knew it was perfect, but we also wondered Farrow & Ball
 DESIGN TIP ‘Aim to use as much reclaimed and inherited furniture as you possibly can,

SITTING ROOM if it was feasible. The house hadn’t been touched

‘The oak lintel above the for 60 years and had serious damp and structural
fireplace was one of the room’s
original ceiling beams and was problems - it was being held up by Acrow props.’
replaced with structural steel to Melissa enlisted the help of some trusted local
support a new wall upstairs,’ builders and a structural engineer she and Charlie
says Melissa.
Walls in Down Pipe estate
had employed on previous projects. ‘Once we’d
emulsion, £49.50 for 2.5ltr, Farrow convinced the mortgage company it could be made
& Ball. For a similar rug, try the habitable, the purchase went through smoothly,’
Persisk Kelim Gashgai rug, £350, says Melissa. From then on, the renovation became
Ikea. Try the Costello sofa, from
£1,060, Sofa.com. Glen Coe a family affair. ‘My mother Jeanne is an architect,
Mustard throw, £75, Bronte by so she was able to draw up plans and advise on
Moon, is similar specialist builders,’ says Melissa. ‘I’d decided to
manage the project myself, so Mum was an
excellent sounding board for all our ideas.’
The couple’s two priorities were to sort out the
damp and reconfigure the higgledy-piggledy layout.
‘Not one single room was on the same level as
another, so it was difficult to make it all work,’ says
Melissa. ‘We worked from the top down and ended
up replacing the roof.’ Using specialist builders was
the key to getting the damp under control. ‘We used
lime plaster inside and out and breathable wood
mixed in with new pieces – it’s a sure-fire way to make your house feel lived-in and homely’

fibre insulation,’ says Melissa. ‘Since all the work MAIN BEDROOM
was finished we’ve had no damp issues at all.’ ‘When we took down the ceiling,
we decided not to replace it as
With the structural works under way, Melissa we liked the extra height,’ says
and Charlie spent every spare weekend clearing Melissa. The bedhead was made
the garden. ‘We took down the original Crittall from an old church panel found
at a reclamation centre. Open
greenhouse and re-assembled it elsewhere. It would shelving (left) offers storage and
have been cheaper to buy a new one but I’d set my space for a quirky display of
heart on keeping it,’ says Melissa. She also designed treasured objects.
the interior with a similar emphasis on re-using Metal chandelier, from £225, Cox
& Cox, has this look. Find similar
the original building materials; the 18th-century vintage church panels at Wells
oak beams have been retained wherever possible. Reclamation. Similar Slate mohair
The finished house has been painted in soft blues, throw, £80, James & May. The
Dormy House sells similar display
greys and neutrals, to fit with the rustic ambience. cabinets, from £795
Upcycled furniture and natural textiles, such
wool and linen, provide the finishing touches. EN SUITE
Now the project is complete, the farmhouse The roll-top bath gives this
en suite ‘room with a view’
exudes the same welcoming, peaceful ambience that a luxurious feel.
Melissa experienced the moment she first stepped Reclaimed cast-iron roll-top bath,
across the threshold. ‘Our farmhouse is a dream from £2,000, Salvoweb, would
come true and we’re assuming we’ll live here forever,’ work here. MPRO bath and shower
mixer tap, from £875, Crosswater.
she says. ‘We’re not planning another project. But, Flame-brushed granite tiles, from
of course, we never say never.’ £102sq m, Mandarin Stone

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 3 9
 NEW BEGINNINGS
Talei Stewart’s move from Australia to Scotland was made easier when she fell in love
with this home and got interior designer Kimberley Bremner’s help renovating it
FEATURE JANET MCMEEKIN | PHOTOGRAPHY ZAC AND ZAC

H A L LWAY SITTING ROOM

The wallpaper chosen for the entrance An eye-catching pendant is a focal point
references the family’s travels to in this elegant, cosy space with its rich
Thailand and sets the tone for the palette of deep blue and grey tones.
palette throughout the house. Jim’s Dream wallpaper in Charcoal, £96m,
Chaparral wallpaper in Antique Brass, Jim Thompson Fabrics. Lunar large pendant,
£105m, Jim Thompson Fabrics. Oversized £3,020, CTO. Ottoman upholstered in
mirror, £599, Jeffreys Interiors Intrigue in Noir de Lune, £65m, Casamance

4 0 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 6

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
A Georgian A-listed townhouse
L O C AT I O N Scotland
R O O M S Sitting room,
sunroom, kitchen-diner, utility
room, four bedrooms (two en
suite), bathroom, dressing room
P U R C H A S E D 2019
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘We lived in a contemporary
beach house in Adelaide,
Australia,’ says Talei.
 H
SITTING ROOM aving fallen for the charms of an elegant
The family’s collection Georgian property in one of Edinburgh’s
of books and artefacts
have been displayed
most sought-after streets, Talei Stewart
to great effect in this realised that she had just stumbled across
personal space with her next home. ‘Although I was absolutely captivated by
its layered tones. the historic townhouse, the prospect of moving 10,000
Armchairs upholstered in
Intrigue fabric in Carbone, miles across the globe, to a property that was such a
£60m, Casamance. contrast to my contemporary beach house in Australia,
Panelling and cabinetry in seemed a little daunting,’ says Talei. However, having met
Basalt intelligent eggshell,
£68 for 2.5tr, Little Greene
interior designer Kimberley Bremner of Edinburgh-based
Jeffreys Interiors, Talei knew that the whole process
DINING AREA would be plain sailing.
A bespoke dining table In 2019, keen to relocate to the UK, Talei had
and banquette seating
area is a space- arranged a whistle-stop trip to Edinburgh with her
saving solution in the family, before heading to the Scottish Highlands for
modernised kitchen. Hogmanay celebrations. ‘What was meant to be an
Banquette upholstered
overnight stay turned into something very different,’
in Talamanca, £85m,
Osborne & Little. Wish she says. ‘The people in Edinburgh were so friendly and
wooden dining chairs, I felt such an instant connection with this amazing city
£149 each, Cult Furniture that it became a hot contender as somewhere to live.’
Strolling through Stockbridge, a vibrant area to the
north of the city centre, Talei was enchanted by the
cobbled streets, ornate period street lights, neatly kept
front gardens and array of handsome homes. ‘This
particuloar street was one of the prettiest I’d ever seen
and, when I spotted a for sale sign, I couldn’t believe it,’
she says. Having swiftly arranged a viewing, Talei decided
to make an offer on the house. ‘Australia is all about
bright, open-plan living, but I just loved the cosiness of
this house and moodiness of the light,’ she explains. ‘It

LESSON LEARNT
‘Each room can have its own
identity, but it’s also important to
have a link – for us it’s the blue,
green and mustard colours’
4 2 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 KITCHEN
Embracing the house’s north-easterly aspect, interior
designer Kimberley chose an earthy palette of dark
green and black for the basement kitchen.
Bespoke kitchen, Peden & Pringle. Cabinets in Studio Green
modern eggshell, £73 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 4 3
 was in need of updating but it had some beautiful period
features and just felt right. When you know, you know!’
MAIN BEDROOM
Talei was drawn to Jeffreys Interiors when she saw its
Olive tones are website and, having visited the company’s showroom, was
punctuated with black delighted to cross paths with Kimberley. ‘Right from the
for a modern look that’s outset, I had a very clear idea about the interiors. I wanted
also very elegant.
Woven wallcovering, to feel cocooned in a relaxing home, surrounded by my
Sahara Colour 10, £54m, books and artwork,’ Talei explains. ‘Since Kimberley
Tektura. Barbara lamp, shares my love of dark, atmospheric interiors and totally
£1,100, Porta Romana
understood my design brief, I trusted her to take the lead
B AT H R O O M in this long-distance process.’
Brass finishes add When the sale completed in June, taking on board
a hint of glamour to Kimberley’s suggestions to rejig the layout, work began.
this space, which has
been painted in a soft, ‘I recommended moving the sitting room to the ground
clay-toned palette. floor and repurposing the space to create a special main
Walls in Raw Umber elite bedroom suite,’ Kimberley says. Downstairs, in what was
emulsion, £51 for 2.5ltr,
a split-level kitchen,Kimberly advised levelling the floor
Zoffany. Fume Emperador
polished limestone and commissioned Edinburgh-based Peden & Pringle to
floor tiles, £42sq m, design a bespoke kitchen.
Mandarin Stone Taking inspiration from Talei’s art, pieces collected
during travels with her family, and her desire for warm,
textured layering, Kimberley painstakingly researched,
created and photographed mood boards for each room,
before sending the images and samples to Australia.‘I
wanted each room to be tied together but also have its
own identity,’ Kimberley explains. ‘The main linking
features were the palette of blues, greens and mustards.’
The result is a home that Talei adores. ‘Kimberley’s
work completely exceeded my expectations,’ says Talei.
‘This is a beautiful home that’s truly magical.’

LAST WORD
‘Apparently the Queen Mother
used to ask her chauffeur to
make a detour to our street – and
I can totally understand why’
4 4 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 A SENSE OF SPACE
For Alexandra Bennett, her stunning home is all about
quality over quantity and this approach has imbued the
historic house with a modern, fresh and open feel
FEATURE KARINE MONIÉ | PHOTOGRAPHY WING HO

SITTING ROOM
The fireplace is the focus
in this room, where design
choices were made to make
this a space of comfort
and warmth throughout
the seasons.
Coffee table, from a selection,
Four Hands. Rust sofa, price
on request, Moroso. Sconces,
$1,735 each, L’Aviva Home

4 6 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 7

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
A cedar shingled four-storey
home originally built in 1925
L O C AT I O N Minnesota
R O O M S Sitting room, dining
room, TV/playroom, kitchen-
diner, office, three bedrooms
(one en suite) two bathrooms
P U R C H A S E D 2017
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘We lived in apartments in Boston
before finding this,’ says Alexandra.

DINING ROOM
Classic minimalistic design pieces
were teamed with the family’s
heirloom dining table.
Cesca chairs, from £179 each, Where
Saints Go. Nelson Saucer Crisscross
bubble pendant, from £485, SCP

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 47
 A
fter studying in Boston, Alexandra
Bennett and her husband started to look
for a property with character back in their
hometown of Minneapolis. Top of their
list was to be in an area that would allow them to enjoy
both the city and the outdoors, and they were lucky
enough to find a location at the intersection of two
beautiful lakes with plenty of green space. ‘We had
looked at a lot of new builds and it never quite felt like
they had the soul and quiet energy of older homes,’ says
Alexandra, founder of contemporary quilt company
Louise Gray. ‘Thankfully, most of the homes in this
area were built around the turn of the century and have
been lovingly cared for and very lightly renovated over
the years, giving a sought-after authenticity and charm.’
Originally built in 1925, the exterior of this
cedar-shingled, Cape Cod-style home immediately
convinced Alexandra that this was the house for them.
‘The simple shape made it look so cosy – like a little
cabin in the city,’ she confesses. ‘It just felt right.’
The four-storey house features a foursquare floor
plan with a room in each corner and a centralised
hallway and stairway. ‘The home is really all about
quality over quantity,’ she says. ‘Everything has its
place, which feels very soothing to me – aesthetically
pleasing but at the same time very hard-working.’
Alexandra called on Victoria Sass from Prospect
Refuge Studio to help with the renovation of their
home. Her team designed every square metre to

LESSON LEARNT ‘Taking a leap of faith when it comes to bold choices pays off –

KITCHEN
A light refresh of the kitchen
included splashback tiles and
upper shelving to an existing
design for a more family-
friendly and functional space.
Zellige splashback tiles,
$19.50sq ft, Clé

BASEMENT
F A M I LY R O O M
Neutrals and hard-working
natural textures were chosen for
this space, including oak, jute,
linen and scrubbable white walls.
The generous window seat
(far right) was designed to be
the size of a twin-sized bed.
Cloud sofa, price on request, RH.
Cushion, price on request, Pierre
Frey. Textural art piece is by local
Minneapolis artist Kim Heidkamp.
Botan no Hana 02 ceiling light,
$1,399.58, Time & Style. Pattern
Throw pillow, $29.90, Zara Home

4 8 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 function at the highest level, including the newly
excavated and remodelled basement transformed into
a TV and play space, and the top floor home office and
meditation area with sloped ceiling and skylights.
‘We made sure each storey and room served a specific
purpose,’ says Victoria, who made the most of her
‘old homes, young families’ approach in this project.
Bright and warm with an overall earth-based
colour palette, the main level focuses on purples, rusts,
mauves and rosy tones, while the sleeping level is more
airy and based on a cool blue. ‘We wanted there to be
a progression through the home as you moved from
bottom to top, like geological and atmospheric layers,’
says Victoria, who used natural materials including
wool, leather, paper, cotton, linen and wood throughout.
The collection of furnishings, family heirlooms
and books add layers to the spaces. ‘Most of these
objects were inherited or collected on travels and
Victoria helped us reframe and rehang them,’ says
Alexandra. ‘It really gave us a fresh view of these
sentimental items. We appreciated them all over again.’
In only 10 months, the couple, who recently had
their second son, crafted their refuge from the busy
world. ‘Most of the home was designed to have this
kind of milk-warm feeling, as if you were swimming in
a perfectly temperate pool, so that you can’t tell where
your skin stops and the water begins,’ Victoria describes.
‘Here, I feel perfectly in sync with my surroundings,’
says Alexandra. ‘Calm and inspired at the same time.’

they are what really defines a space and without them a room can fall flat’

OFFICE
A lounge chair doubles as reading
and meditation space.
Floor lantern, $695, Santa &
Cole. Low table, $265, Matthew
Philip Williams. Throw by
Louise Gray. Cushion, price
on request, Zak + Fox. Wall
sconces, $1,125 each, Workstead

MAIN BEDROOM
The bedrooms were designed
to have an airier feeling, with
lighter colours, more textiles
and softer surfaces.
Bedding, from a selection, Hale
Mercantile. Nightstand, $1,889,
Chelsea Textiles. Bedside lamp,
$1,550, Newport Lamps. Bed
designed by Ilse Crawford,
$5,830, De La Espada

NURSERY
The inspiration for the nursery
is living among the trees.
Raphael wallpaper by Sandberg,
£99.60 a roll, Jane Clayton. Caravan
crib, $1,495, Kalon. Rondure
chandelier, $949, Triple Seven

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 4 9
 E F F O R T L E S S LY
HOME TRUTHS
D E S I G N E R Rachel Laxer
ELEGANT
Interior designer Rachel Laxer reveals how she created smart
H O U S E Georgian townhouse
in northwest London
schemes for the owners of this Georgian townhouse
W O R K Complete redecoration
and new furnishings with an FEATURE MELANIE WHITEHOUSE | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHEL LAXER
emphasis on practicality

5 0 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 8
SITTING ROOM
Velvet upholstery adds a sumptuous
element. Low shelving was chosen to give
more room for displaying art.
Granite Stone 1871 wallpaper, price on
request, Phillip Jeffries. Rangpur coffee
table, £217.99, Online Home Improvements,
has this look. Sanderson open-shelved
bookcase, £850, Style our Home, is similar

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 5 1
 H A L LWAY
The black-and-white photos had been collected over years
and were repurposed by Rachel. ‘If you buy good things,
they will travel with you in life,’ says Rachel.
Walls in Dimity estate emulsion, £49.50 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

5 2 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 KITCHEN
A monochrome scheme is a timeless choice.
Buller Ltd has similar tambour cupboards,
from £237.60. Nero granite worktops,
from £285.60sq m, Mayfair Granite

KITCHEN-DINER
H O W D I D YO U C O M E T O B E I N VO LV E D The table is a classic, as are the wire chairs.
I N T H I S P R O J E C T ? This Georgian house in ‘I always go back to this Tulip-style table,
it’s my favourite,’ says Rachel.
northwest London had been renovated and restored by the Eero Saarinen White Tulip-style table, £349, Fusion Living.
previous owner but needed furniture and redecoration. I Harry Bertoia-style wire chairs, £99 each, Light & Glory
knew the client socially, so I was the person she turned to
to refresh the paint, add wallpaper and buy furniture to
suit the rooms and the owner’s lifestyle.
H O W I N VO LV E D W E R E T H E H O M E
O W N E R S ? The owners are a young family with two DINING ROOM
daughters. I’d show them what I intended to do and we Farrow & Ball’s Dimity was used in
many of the rooms – its pink
would talk about picking quality pieces that would last. undertones add warmth.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR/ Similar Cavendish extending table,
T H E H O M E O W N E R S ’ S T Y L E They wanted a £1,999, Furniture and Choice
comfortable family home – nothing too precious, that was
both stylish and resilient with materials that would suit
young children, such as leather dining chairs and a table to
do their homework. It’s a house that’s meant to be used.
W H AT W E R E T H E B I G G E S T P R I O R I T I E S
F O R T H E H O M E O W N E R S ? Their biggest
priority was to get into the house before the start of the
school year! We began work in April and they moved in in
August, so we made it. We worked to their budget and
I advised them where to spend and where to save. In
the sitting room, for instance, we mixed top-end Italian
sofas and chairs with high-street joinery.
W H AT WA S YO U R I N S P I R AT I O N F O R
T H E S C H E M E ? The house: it spoke to me. I wanted
the architecture to take centre stage.
WHICH ROOMS WERE THE MOST
I M P O R TA N T T O T H E H O M E O W N E R S ?
The sitting room at the front of the house and the dining
room. They are beautiful rooms which you see as soon as
you enter the house.

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 5 3
 MAIN BEDROOM
Understated luxury is the name of the
game in this scheme, with a leather bed,
dark woollen throw and velvet cushions.
Find leather headboards at Love Leather,
from £248.52. Similar Alpaca throw in EN SUITE
Aubergine, £159, Heal’s A wooden wall
carving hangs
dramatically
over the square-
ended bathtub.
Similar Emilja
wall panel, £153,
Maisons du Monde

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE THE COLOUR

P A L E T T E ? I choose my colours based on the light.
I’m American and find England can be very grey, so
it’s important to have warm tones, like the deep, rich
aubergines and dark browns I’ve introduced here, in
luxurious fabrics like velvet. The walls are in Farrow
& Ball’s Dimity, which has a hint of pink warmth.
W H AT WA S T H E B I G G E S T C H A L L E N G E ?
Finding the right cabinets and bookcases on the high street,
because we didn’t have the money to build them in. People
sometimes spend too much money on bespoke cabinetry
when a high-street find can do the job. Spend instead on
places where you sit – they need to be super comfortable.
W H AT WA S T H E M O S T S AT I S F Y I N G
A S P E C T O F T H I S P R O J E C T ? Meeting the
deadline! And having very happy clients who love that
everything works for their lifestyle and that they now
have an easy, elegant home.
IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD
C H A N G E ? Nothing – it was a super successful design.
W H AT I S YO U R A D V I C E F O R
C R E AT I N G A S U C C E S S F U L S C H E M E ?
Take time at the beginning to understand the clients’
objectives and how you can help them realise their vision.
Guide them to allocate their funds and save resources
– too often people get around 70% done and run out
of money. When you’re buying paint, test them out by
MAIN BEDROOM painting big boards, and move these around to see how
‘This cleverly designed item of furniture the light absorbs the colour at different times of the day.
configures into anything from a vanity Also consider how you feel when you walk into a space,
unit to a bar,’ says Rachel.
Magic Cube by André Schelbach for because homes generate their own energy. I’ve been into
Yomei, price on request, Archi Products many places which are beautiful but icy, and others that
are cluttered with junk. Aim for clean and warm.

5 4 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 9
GOING THE DISTANCE
Although living in Singapore, Melinda and Chris Swann took a leap of faith when
they purchased an old English vicarage and oversaw its renovation from afar
FEATURE KAREN DARLOW | PHOTOGRAPHY MATTHEW CATTELL

EXTERIOR
The Victorian brick and flint vicarage
has been updated in an eco-friendly
manner – it is now heated with
air source pumps.
Renovation, SDA Build London.
Garden design, Creative Landscape

L
ooking for a home and a major work from the other side of the world.
project to keep her busy, Melinda One thing that was clear from the start
Swann thought she’d struck gold was that the layout needed a rethink. ‘The
when she found an old brick and configuration wasn’t ideal,’ says Melinda.
flint vicarage. ‘It was a handsome house ‘Rooms had been subdivided here and
HOME TRUTHS from the outside, but inside it was there and, although it was sold as a
THE PROPERTY unloved,’ she says. ‘It was freezing cold and nine-bedroom house, there were only two
Former vicarage, built in the 1850s
draughty, but it had potential.’ The only bathrooms. We needed to tackle the
L O C AT I O N Oxfordshire
R O O M S Sitting room, dining snag was that it was in Oxfordshire, 7,000 heating and insulation too, as the tenant
room, kitchen, wine cellar, boot miles away from Singapore where Melinda who had been living there told us she had
room, laundry room, TV room/ and her husband, Chris, were based. to put extra clothes on to go to bed!’
office, plant room, five bedrooms,
five bathrooms, guest suite, plus Having sold her own business in the The Swanns were keen to make the
a coach house guest suite pharmaceutical sector, and with the couple vicarage an environmentally friendly
P U R C H A S E D 2014 due to return to the UK in a year’s time, home, so specified air source heat pumps.
PREVIOUS PROPERTY Melinda decided the vicarage would make To ensure the house stayed warm,
‘We lived in a penthouse flat in
central Singapore,’ says Melinda. the perfect renovation project, even Thermalite linings were used for the walls
though she would have to manage the and floor. ‘We wanted to put in double

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 57
 DESIGN TIP ‘Don’t be afraid to layer different patterns and colours when

SITTING ROOM
A large footstool, which doubles
as a coffee table, takes centre stage
in this welcoming space.
Tarporley stool, £4,740, William Yeoward.
Chester chesterfield, £2,190, Old Boot.
Customised rug, The Rug Maker. Twiggy
light, price on request, Pieter Adam

glazing too, but to do it sympathetically,’ A new kitchen was fitted, together the most fantastic hand-embroidered
says Melinda. Next to the vicarage was a with five new bathrooms and a sweeping cotton curtains, which I’ve used in two of
single-storey building where the vicar had staircase. Melinda also wanted to the bedrooms. After I came back, I saw a
run a school and Melinda wanted to introduce more light, so planning similar design at William Yeoward and
incorporate this into the new layout, permission was needed for extra windows. was so happy that I had got them at a
keeping as many of the original features as The chimneys, which had gradually fraction of the price!’
possible. A contemporary glass-box diminished in size over the years, were also Melinda is rightly proud of her
extension now links the two buildings, restored to their original height using old beautifully renovated home, with its eco
providing a striking covered walkway photographs as a guide. features and striking furnishings. ‘I chose
between the spaces. ‘The Victorian The couple moved back to the UK for all the decor myself. I had no interior
foundations were somewhat lacking, so we the last three months of the project. ‘Just designer and I’m so pleased with how it’s
had to dig down. It was a big project, and in time for all the nice finishing touches turned out,’ she says. ‘Above all, I didn’t
took a year in total,’ says Melinda. ‘We – the wallpaper, paint colours and carpets,’ want it to look old-fashioned – more
were still out in Singapore, so I was says Melinda. To help with the decoration, classic with a modern twist, so if the
project-managing a team of 12 builders, Melinda had gathered some furnishings Victorian vicar walked back in after all
plus specialist tradespeople, using email and accessories on her travels around the these years, it would be nice to think he’d
and video calls to see what the issues were.’ world. ‘When we were in India, I found still recognise his not so humble abode.’

5 8 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
decorating your home – it adds depth to a scheme and brings the rooms alive’

KITCHEN
Subtle shades of green and cream link
this stylish room to the garden beyond.
Classic Shaker kitchen, McCarron and
Company. For Brazilian quartzite
worktops, try Cullifords. Imo bar stools,
£395 each, Pinch. Melt pendant lights,
from £500 each, Tom Dixon

CONNECTING CORRIDOR
Old and new meet in this
innovative design, where a
contemporary glass corridor
links the main house with the
original schoolroom

S TA I R C A S E
The vicarage originally had two
staircases – the main stairs,
which were replaced with this
new sweeping design, and the
back stairs that led directly
to the kitchen from the
servants’ quarters.
For a similar staircase, try Kevala
Stairs. Wychwood limestone
weathered finish floor tiles, £48sq m,
Artisans of Devizes. Kingston round
dark wood dining table, £169.99,
Furniture and Choice, is similar
 LESSON LEARNT ‘An eco-friendly house is economical in the long term’

MAIN BEDROOM
This generously sized room contains a seating
area that offers a quiet space in which to relax.
Merian Palm wallpaper, £135m, Timorous
Beasties. Juniper open canopy bed, from £3,450,
The Four Poster Bed Company, has this look

BEDROOM
A wrought-iron bed frame
and floral blind introduce a note
of vintage style.
Oliver double bed, £499, Feather &
Black. Blind in Amelie in Cream/
Green, £84m, Colefax and Fowler.
For bolster cushions, from £22 each,
try Dekoria

AT T I C B AT H R O O M
Simplicity is key in this all-white
scheme, which allows the
architectural details to shine.
Heritage Derrymore freestanding
double-ended roll-top bath, £1,285;
floorstanding Crosswater Belgravia
bath and shower mixer, £370, both
UK Bathroom Store

6 0 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 EAST MEETS WEST
Nancy Garland and husband Ben have reimagined a run-down townhouse
that now perfectly blends Georgian splendour with Eastern charm
FEATURE SARA EMSLIE | PHOTOGRAPHY RACHEL WHITING

SITTING
ROOM
Nancy has adopted
the rules of symmetry
with matching
Oriental cupboards,
both styled with the
same ginger jars as a
reference to their time
living in Hong Kong.
White Ginger jars, £35
each, The Nine Schools

6 2 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 10

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
Georgian townhouse
L O C AT I O N Bath
R O O M S Sitting room, dining
room/living area, two kitchens,
family room, study, utility room,
five bedrooms (one en suite),
three bathrooms
P U R C H A S E D 2019
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘We were living in Hong Kong
before moving here,’ says Nancy.

SITTING ROOM
The large batik artwork
above the fireplace adds
a touch of Eastern
elegance, while the sofas
are ideal for sinking into.
Walls in Wimborne White
estate emulsion, £49.50
for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball.
Sybil glass tempered coffee
table, £399, La Redoute.
Artwork by Jai Vasicek
DINING ROOM
The table stands
out beautifully against
all the white.
Hans Wishbone chairs in
White, £185 each, Barker and
Stonehouse. Yuki White
cupboard, £665, Tikamoon.
Staggered Glass six-light
chandelier, £399, West Elm
R
enovating a Grade I-listed Georgian
architectural gem from a distance of
10,000km away might not make
sense to many. But for Nancy Garland,
husband Ben and children Milly and Toby, it was
somewhat serendipitous. Having spent 20 years
living first in Sydney then Hong Kong, the family
were keen to relocate back to the UK. Open-minded
about the location – ‘somewhere west of London
with good schools and a city with countryside’ – the
couple trawled online sites from their Hong Kong
apartment earmarking potential properties. ‘We
weren’t actually looking for a project,’ explains Nancy,
‘but we wanted period features and liked the area
the house was in, so we were happy to take one on.’
Despite needing total renovation, the house – set DINING ROOM
high on the northern slopes with spectacular views The couple have
over the city – seemed too much of an opportunity introduced a
to turn down. ‘It had immense potential and the designated bar and
living area (top left).
outlook was also important to us,’ explains Nancy, Chester three-seater
reminiscing about their Hong Kong apartment sofa in natural linen,
‘with the most amazing view of the sea’ where they £2,200, Oka
would sit on the balcony and watch the ships go by. KITCHEN
‘Here we can look out over Bath from the front and Traditional-style
countryside from the back and are not overlooked, cabinetry with brass
which is rare for Georgian townhouses,’ she says. fixtures add classic
utilitarian style.
Elegantly flat fronted and with the distinctive Suffolk kitchen from
warm honey tones of the local stone, the house is part £870 for 600mm single
of the east wing terrace of houses that flanks one of door cupboard, painted
in Ink eggshell, £54 for
the city’s most famous crescents, and full of the period
2.5ltr, Neptune. Gold
charm Nancy longed for. ‘We were lucky that the Midas metal bar stool,
original features hadn’t been removed over the years £185, Rockett St George

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 6 5
 as the house had also survived World War Two
bombing that destroyed half of the crescent.’ Inside,
the renovation took over a year and because of the
practical restraints of living on the other side of the
globe, the couple employed project management
company Berkeley Place (berkeleyplace.co.uk)
to oversee the work: ‘It worked out really well
having someone on the ground. We couldn’t have
managed it any other way,’ explains Nancy. The
house was gutted from top to bottom, the kitchen
and bathrooms were replaced, walls were
replastered and repairs were carried out to the
original cornicing and floorboards throughout.
Being so far away meant just one site visit was
feasible, so the couple avoided most of the stress
usually involved, but there were downsides: ‘It was
EN SUITE tricky as we weren’t able to view samples or visit stores
Greenery adds a so we were rolling the dice to some extent.’ But it
modern feel. doesn’t show. The interior is a beautiful marriage of
Royce Morgan Crystal
slipper bath, £689, classic Georgian splendour and Asian and Australian
Classical Baths. White lifestyle influences: ‘We wanted to retain and
ceramic stool, highlight the original features while complementing
£195, Shimu. Sketch
Dancer II framed print,
with more modern artwork and colour schemes.’
£175, Neptune The rooms are decorated in pale colours, with
wooden floors and antique furniture and accessories
MILLY’S brought back from Hong Kong: ‘Having lived in
BEDROOM
Pink walls and pink warmer, sunnier countries by the sea we are very
accessories make much driven by light-filled spaces,’ says Nancy. ‘The
Milly’s bedroom house has very high ceilings and large windows and
suitably pretty.
manages to stay warm and cosy in winter with the
Walls in Calamine
estate emulsion, £49.50 woodburner on and bright but cool in the summer.’
for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball The best of both worlds it seems, in every way.

6 6 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 MAIN BEDROOM
The sleek pendant is a beautiful
contrast to the more traditional
aspects of the scheme.
Richmond Linen Union
headboard, from £750, The
White Company. White Oriental
blanket box custom-made in
Hong Kong; for similar try Oka
 Team spirit
Holly Hartley and her husband Al enlisted a talented group
of craftspeople to help make their home a rural idyll
FEATURE AND STYLING NAOMI JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY BRENT DARBY

6 8 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 11

SITTING ROOM slipper chair, £539, both SofaSofa. Wood Mirrors. Mango wood
The wood burner was positioned Nesting tray tables, £269; Black floor lamp, £245, Barker and
in the corner of the room to Tree tray, TGN-020404, D61cm, Stonehouse. For a similar cushion,
create a more unique layout. £123; White Slice wooden tray, try the Zuma Aztec, £80, Sweetpea
Jydepejsen Senza woodburning TGN-020305, D48cm, £90, all & Willow. The Kashgai kilim stool,
stove, £2,547, Woodburner Notre Monde at 4 Living. Rennes £350, Rugs of London, has this
Warehouse. Grosvenor sofa, Matte white shabby chic round look. Lohals natural flatwoven
£849 for a two-seater; Grosvenor window mirror, from £80, William 200x300cm rug, £99, Ikea

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 69
 HOME TRUTHS
PROPERTY
Farmhouse, built in the 1600s
L O C AT I O N Derbyshire
R O O M S Sitting room,
kitchen-diner, conservatory,
boot room, utility room, five
bedrooms, five bathrooms,
plus a two-bedroom cottage
P U R C H A S E D 2017
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘We lived in a rental property
in Staffordshire,’ says Holly.

KITCHEN-DINER Metal Grey), £4,515.19, Kinder

‘Painting walls the same or Kitchens. Softline column
a similar colour to the units vertical radiator, £242.62,
helps soften your kitchen,’ Stelrad. Ceramic White
says interior designer Jo Belfast sink, BAK710, £392,
Ibbotson. A ceramic sink Franke. Ludlow monobloc
adds to the modern country mixer tap in antique brass,
feel, while in the dining area, £283, Abode. Bespoke blind in
a circular table makes the Heather Moors by Voyage
most of a small space. Maison, £305, Harmony
Walls in Blue Gray estate Decor. Table, £395; stick-back
emulsion, £49.50 for 2.5ltr, chairs, £159 each, all The
Farrow & Ball. Wakefield units Good Shelf Company. Polyflor
by Kitchen Stori (wall units in Camaro Cambridge parquet,
Mussel, floor units in Gun £17.99sq m, Flooring Supplies

70 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
I
f something is worth doing, it’s worth doing properly, says my bones,’ says Holly, whose ancestors have lived in the community
education consultant Holly Hartley. ‘I’ve worked in some of for more than 600 years. Both Holly and Al had travelled a lot, but
the most deprived schools in the UK and abroad and the only when they found out that this farmhouse was for sale, they knew it
way to turn a difficult situation around is to create a team of was their chance to put down roots. ‘Our idea was to create a home
passionate people and inspire them to overcome any challenges.’ that provides peace and tranquillity but with space to have friends
Similarly, five years ago, Holly knew she’d need expert help when and family to stay, to rent out to holidaymakers (overleafarm.com)
she and husband Al took on this farmhouse: the decor was tired and and for the girls to live in when they’re older,’ says Holly.
the way the outbuildings were being used needed a rethink. With former Royal Navy engineer Al taking the lead as project
Sitting on the edge of the Peak District National Park, with manager and head plumber, the pair put together a fantastic group of
views over rolling hills, surrounded by 14 acres of land, the house craftspeople to realise their vision. ‘Good teamwork was vital,’ says
was the ideal place for the couple and their daughters (Isabella, 12, Al, who grew up in a neighbouring village ‘with the driving forces
and Margot, 10) to create a future-proofed home. ‘This village is in here being our interior architect Vanessa Rudd (fourwalls-id.co.uk)

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 7 1
 BEDROOM B AT H R O O M BEDROOM
A pendant on a chain frees Greenery and natural materials A panelled bench seat (below)
up the side table. make this a welcoming retreat. provides hidden storage.
Brass cherub pendant light in Metro Windley Carrara ceramic Walls in Mizzle estate emulsion,
antiqued brass, £165.30, Jim tiles, £22.80sq m, Tile Town. Bollin £49.50 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball.
Lawrence. Try the Camille bedside black arched console window The Mayfair pendant light, £189.54,
table in Black, £295, Cox & Cox mirror, £150, William Wood Mirrors Castlegate Lights, is similar

and interior designer Jo Ibbotson (joibbotson.co.uk).’ Holly had who had sloping floors and ceilings and four-foot walls to contend
known Jo from school and the friends were reunited when they with, as Al explains: ‘The fact that the outbuildings had already been
moved back to the area around the same time. ‘Jo was able to converted by the previous owners didn’t really help us as the space
translate my idea of creating spaces that reflect the countryside yet had to be reconfigured to create a more flexible arrangement that
have touches of luxury,’ says Holly. ‘I still have to travel a bit for could work with the main house, or as independent cottages; the only
work, so the idea of coming home to a place that feels a million miles things we kept were the main structure and the beams and lintels.’
from anything yet is comfortable and elegant was so appealing.’ While the couple still have some work to do in the house, they
Choosing the colours, fabrics and standout pieces for this feel more confident, ‘especially now we have established a fantastic
nature-inspired scheme may have been a dream job for Jo, but the team,’ says Holly. ‘It’s lovely to be able to utilise local skills and it has
renovation work was more of a challenge, particularly for Vanessa, helped us to settle back into the community we know so well.’

7 2 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 HALLWAY
The far arch was created to
match the existing ones.
Adam’s Eden wallpaper (above dado),
from £74.35m, Lewis & Wood.
Wellington table lamp, £270, Pooky

KITCHEN
‘We love entertaining and this
space is made for it,’ says Kerry.
Hacker cabinetry, price on request,
Four Seasons Kitchens. Bosky
wallpaper, £75.35m, Lewis & Wood

74 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 12
GRAND DESIGN
The beautiful proportions of this Edwardian villa were
more than matched by Kerry Pickering’s elegant vision
FEATURE SEÁN O’CONNELL | STYLING KERRY PICKERING | PHOTOGRAPHY VERONICA RODRIGUEZ
 HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
Double-fronted Edwardian villa
L O C AT I O N
Newcastle upon Tyne
R O O M S Sitting room, kitchen,
dining room, utility room, study,
conservatory, eight bedrooms
(four en suite), bathroom
P U R C H A S E D 2017
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘We had a Victorian terrace in
London,’ says Kerry.

A
s a lover of period
properties, Kerry
Pickering somehow
knew she wouldn’t be
disappointed upon first viewing her
Newcastle home. ‘My husband and I
were living in London at the time so
DINING ROOM we’d only seen images of the house
‘The period furniture is
complemented by the bold
online,’ she says. ‘But once we stepped
chandelier,’ says Kerry. through the door, to be greeted by
Eichholtz Selva chandelier, wonderfully tall rooms with elegant
£1,720, LuxDeco. No 7 Archtop proportions, it was clear that this
mirror, £1,795, Overmantels
place was ideal for us.’
On a practical footing, the
number one task was reconfiguring
the rooms on each floor to ensure
the space worked. Downstairs this
BATHROOM
‘I love green included removing a rear staircase
and white and and repositioning a cloakroom, while
this wallpaper upstairs three new en-suite bathrooms
was perfect,’
says Kerry.
were created. Sticklers for detail, the
Egg Shell bath, pair even moved one bathroom door
from £1.295, Lusso opening six inches to the right so a
shower could fit on the left side of the
entrance. ‘Daft as it sounds, this totally
transformed the space,’ says Kerry.
This incredible attention to
detail marks out this home as being
something out of the ordinary and
restoring the original character was
UTILITY ROOM a given, which accounts for the new
A green floral scheme parquet flooring on the ground floor,
creates a fresh feel.
the reinstating of period fireplaces
Harsyra wallpaper by
Sandberg, £86.90 a roll, and installation of wooden windows
Jane Clayton throughout, not to mention underfloor
heating throughout the ground floor
and all bathrooms. Also, wherever the
period decoration had been removed,
such as cornicing, picture rails, ceiling
roses and even decorative plasterwork,
no expense was spared in having
replacements made – either by copying
existing sections or replacing with
designs based on the originals.
But this is a home with style at SITTING ROOM
‘This is a statement
its heart and that’s due in no small room with a sense
part to the talents of Kerry, whose of fun,’ says Kerry.
Instagram handle, @definitelynotdull, Quintessence wallpaper,
describes her and her home down to £188 a panel, Harlequin
a tee. ‘My objective was to give this
period house the feel-good factor
I felt it deserved by reinvigorating
the space with sophisticated yet
daring design,’ she says. And nowhere BEDROOM
Twin beds
more so than in the sitting room perfectly utilise the
where clean, opulent furnishings under-eaves space.
enjoy the backdrop of vibrant and Designers Guild
stunning floral wallpaper. Mattiazzo wallpaper,
£98 a roll, Designer
Being a lover of wallpapers, Kerry Wallpapers
uses an array of themes to brilliant
effect in every area of the house –
from a warm welcoming botanic
covering in the hallway to a dark,
dramatic paper that is suitably
convivial in the dining room.
As well as pattern, fabrics loom
large in this home where every
room enjoys its own identity, and
much of the credit goes to Kerry’s
hands-on approach. An accomplished
seamstress, Kerry made all 32 of the
blinds in the house. ‘Many were over
two metres wide, which was a major
undertaking,’ she says.
Needless to say, the kitchen lies
at the heart of this home and it is no
surprise to learn the couple insisted
MAIN
on cabinetry that lived up to the rest BEDROOM
of the house and chose a style with This sophisticated
a finish that replicates the look and scheme in this
spacious room is
texture of slate. ‘We’re now looking unashamedly romantic.
forward to having an open house with Ritz headboard, £434,
friends and family, and an endless Headboards Ltd
supply of food and drink,’ Kerry says.
In this setting that screams sociability,
we’d expect nothing less.

FAVOURITE ITEM
‘I have a thing for
mirrors – they introduce
a new dimension to
every space’
2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 7 7
no. 13
Decorative
ART
Designer Tiffany Ogden meticulously restored the bones of
her Victorian townhouse then filled it with her much-loved
collection of opulent antiques and stunning modern pieces

FEATURE KAREN JENSEN-JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES MCDONALD

H A L LWAY
Striking statement pieces and
metallic finishes combine for
an eye-catching display.
Similar gold metal sunburst
mirror, £263, Maisons du Monde.
Chianti lamps, £1,352.50 each,
Porta Romana

78 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 SITTING ROOM
‘This space has been totally
refigured to make the most of the
constantly changing light, colour
and shadows at different times of
the day,’ says Tiffany.
Countess mirrors, price on request,
Julian Chichester. Artwork over
fireplace by Michele Lavalette,
Savannah Gallery. Similar
Jenner zebra chair by Eichholtz,
£1,080, House of Isabella

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 7 9
KITCHEN
‘I never doubted the bold colour
and design of the kitchen,’ says
Tiffany. ‘The deep purple and
brass are such a natural pairing
alongside the timeless elegance
of the period property.’
Bespoke kitchen by Tiffany
Ogden Designs and Futturo Ltd.
Brass handles, price on request,
Joseph Giles. Units in Paean Black
estate eggshell, £67 for 2.5ltr,
Farrow & Ball. Try Vinterior for a
similar 1970s Murano glass
chandelier. Splashback, price on
request, Quirky Interiors

8 0 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 DINING
AREA
Treasured art
adds warmth and
homeliness.
Bespoke table,
Fiona McDonald.
Maxime chairs,
£1,400 each,
Jonathan Adler

H A L LWAY
Touches of
pink and
purple enliven
this space.
Anthropologie’s
Amelia vintage
velvet chairs,
£498 each, are a
good alternative

TV ROOM
‘The herringbone
oak flooring is
edged with brass
to look like a rug,’
says Tiffany.
Portobello oak
and stone floor,
price on request,
Root London

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
Six-storey Victorian townhouse
L O C AT I O N West London
P U R C H A S E D 2014
R O O M S Sitting room,
kitchen-diner, TV room, study,
cloakroom, five bedrooms (one
en suite), four bathrooms
PREVIOUS HOME
‘We lived in a smaller Victorian
townhouse in the same part of
London,’ says Tiffany.

B AT H R O O M LANDING
This pared-back space The original
centres around calm tones. staircase takes
Aegean bath, price on centre stage in
request, Ashton & Bentley. this elegant home.
Similar Dove limestone Roger Oates Design
flooring, £100sq m, Stone sells stair runners,
& Ceramic Warehouse price on request

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 8 1
D
esigner Tiffany pieces draw the eye, including
Ogden’s love of an oversized mother of pearl
decorative antiques chandelier and elegant Val St
is evident Lambert vases on the fireplace.
throughout her home with In the sitting room, mirrors
beautiful pieces at every turn. bring symmetry to the space
An avid collector, she’s finally while the striking drinks
found the perfect space to enjoy cabinet adds glamour with its
her carefully curated treasures, Ikebana glass and brass plates.
which include an impressive As a backdrop to her many
array of pineapple barware. antiques, Tiffany has crafted the
‘I started collecting vintage house to ensure a seamless
pineapples before they became continuity on every floor.
popular and I always had this ‘Floors can link a home but you
idea to display them in the top don’t have to use the same
kitchen cupboards,’ says Tiffany. material in every room. Brass
‘Adding spotlights makes them features throughout the house
look like they’re in museum in many forms and nowhere is it
cabinets and I love them.’ more triumphant than in the
After studying architecture kitchen. ‘I’d seen the concept
and interior design, Tiffany for a kitchen I loved years ago
founded her own company, and used the idea as the base. I
Tiffany Ogden Designs knew I wanted a deep purple
(@tiffanyogdendesigns), recently hue and Farrow & Ball had just
completing a residential project brought out Paean Black, which
in Antigua. ‘Work has been busy was perfect. The handles were
and then children came along so equally important because I like
despite moving into this house the idea of them folding out
in 2014, we waited six years from themselves. Our incredible
before renovating it,’ she says. builder, Peter Nowicki of
Tiffany’s meticulous plans Futturo Ltd, based in London,
for this six-storey Victorian found someone to make them
townhouse included opening up and they sit perfectly alongside
the staircase from downstairs, the Joseph Giles handles
remodelling the living areas and throughout the rest of the room.’
building a new basement, Happy that her own home is
working with Simon Moxey of now restored, Tiffany is excited
Moxey Associates. The idea was about a new venture working
to create more light and then a with architect Simon Moxey
friend suggested opening up the called 239 Collection
staircase, too, with a spine wall (239collection.com). ‘I’m
and it’s become the most looking forward to starting
beautiful feature of the house. new projects with Simon with a
From the moment you enter view to creating many more
the light-filled hall, interesting beautiful, happy homes.’

8 2 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 FAVOURITE RO OM
‘Every space is special
because it’s our family
home and I think my
antiques help make it
warm and inviting’

MAIN BEDROOM
Soft colours and textiles create a
soothing and cocooning effect.
Walls in Slate II, £89 for 5ltr, Paint &
Paper Library. Ceiling light, price on
request, Fiona McDonald. Try The
French Bedroom Company’s Beaufort
bed, £1,395. Artwork above bed by
Bridget Riley, Cristea Roberts Gallery

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 8 3
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2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 8 5
 BACK TO NATURE
Maaike Goldbach and her husband Onno have turned a converted
church into a family home that oozes natural charm
FEATURE AND STYLING EMILY HENSON | PHOTOGRAPHY KATYA DE GRUNWALD

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
Converted church
L O C AT I O N Friesland,
The Netherlands
R O O M S Sitting room/
dining area, kitchen, two
bedrooms, bathroom
P U R C H A S E D 2012
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘I travelled around with my work
and lived in various places before
we bought this place,’ says Maaike.

DINING AREA
This space is directly beneath the pulpit, one of the original features
of the church. A white painted pew complements the scheme.
Hummingbirds wallpaper, £135 a roll, Cole & Son, is similar. Iona
dining table, from £599, Made, has the same look. Try Haines
upholstered dining chairs, £129 each, Cult Furniture

8 6 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 14
KITCHEN SITTING ROOM
The curved connecting door frames are an interesting The huge picture windows enjoy stunning views over the
architectural feature. Maaike painted them in a soft shade surrounding forested countryside.
of grey for added visual interest. Bow floor lamp, £169, Made, would suit this scheme. The Old Cinema
Retro fridge/freezer, from £1,899, Smeg, has this look. Pavilion Gray sells similar rustic benches, from £295. Try Slim Jim chaise sofa, from
estate eggshell, £67 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball is a similar woodwork colour £2,295, Loaf. Jute pouffe, £79, John Lewis & Partners, has this look

M
aaike Goldbach travelled When Maaike and Onno first a private residence in 1996,’ says Maaike.
for several years for her viewed the converted church, their first ‘From the outside, it still looks like a
work as a stylist and impressions were overwhelmingly positive. village church, but once inside, it’s very
window dresser, but when ‘We both loved its original features, much like an ordinary open-plan home,
she and her husband Onno began looking such as the lovely rustic wooden floors apart from features like the pulpit, which
for a permanent base, she decided to return and huge picture windows, which make is accessed through the main bedroom.
to her roots. ‘I come from an area of the the living spaces so wonderfully light,’ says It’s one of Amelie’s favourite hideouts.’
Netherlands called Frisia, or Friesland, Maaike. ‘The church also backs on to a With its pristine white walls and
which is a region on the northern coast,’ forested area and has stunning country light-filled open-plan spaces, the church
says Maaike. ‘It has a very beautiful rural views, which are constantly changing was also in good decorative order. ‘It was
setting and even has its own language – throughout the seasons.’ a great blank canvas for Onno and I to
I learned it while I was growing up, and The couple were pleased to discover experiment with pattern and colour,’ says
still speak it a little. Our little daughter that the building was structurally sound Maaike. ‘I like to take a piece of fabric or
Amelie was only two at the time and and that very little building work was wallpaper as the starting-point for a scheme
Onno and I decided it was the perfect required to turn into a home. ‘The church and build it from there, without allowing
place to create a family home.’ was built in 1910 and was converted into the decor to become too busy or hectic.’

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 8 7
 SITTING ROOM
Glass accessories and furniture enhance the sense of light and space.
Bubble recycled glass vase, £40, Garden Trading. Try Wonder-Boy
coffee table, £395, Loaf. Elbu linen armchair, £625, Nkuku, has this look

8 8 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 MAIN BEDROOM AMELIE’S BEDROOM
With its patchwork quilt and unusual art, this relaxing The teepee makes a fun hideaway and
bedroom has a distinctly vintage feel. the map fabric is educational.
Notonthehighstreet sells patchwork quilts, from £50. Try Lindby Similar world map fabric, £26m, Spoonflower. Osby star window
wood desk lamp, £65.90, Lights.co.uk. Walls in a similar colour light, £13.99, Lights4Fun, would work here. Kallax shelving unit,
to Wevet estate emulsion, £49.50 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball £25; Moppe mini chest of drawers, £17, both Ikea

i n s p i r at i o n‘Nature is a constant source of inspiration and we like to

decorate our home with pebbles, feathers and other found objects’

Since Maaike and her family live so close in vintage markets around the country. By here in our little church in the countryside,
to nature, with the forest all around, she contrast, her husband Onno finds great we’ve managed to find the perfect balance
decided to keep to a neutral palette, with inspiration in nature. ‘He often brings home of nature, practicality, quirkiness and fun,’
lots of wood, white painted furniture and feathers, pebbles, flowers and other natural says Maaike. ‘In other words, there’s
plain white curtains. objects that he finds while running the something for the whole family.’
A key aspect of Maaike’s decorative forest behind our home,’ says Maaike. ‘The
style is her keen attention to detail. ‘I used wallpaper in the dining room brilliantly
to work as a stylist and had a successful represents the meeting place of our two Taken from Bohemian
career as a window dresser, travelling different styles, both natural and vintage.’ Modern by Emily
around the country in a van and designing The home that Maaike and Onno have Henson (£19.99,
windows for different stores,’ she says. She created together amply reflects the care Ryland Peters &
discovered many great places to shop on her and thought that’s been put into it. ‘We’ve Small). Photography
travels and sourced many unusual objects lived in more conventional homes, but by Katya de Grunwald

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 8 9
 no. 15
SITTING ROOM
Painting the walls, doors, frames and skirting boards
the same shade has created a seamless look that
draws the eye to the sofa and artwork.
Similar Sutton three-seater sofa in Orange, £1,699,
Swoon. Artwork , £1,000, Laura Wickstead. Walls in
Squid Ink, from £51 for 2.5ltr, Paint & Paper Library

U R B A N C H IC
Interior designer Cherie Lee has used dark colours
and art deco touches to bring drama to a period home
FEATURE KAREN WILSON | PHOTOGRAPHY RAY MAIN

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 9 1
 HOME TRUTHS
T H E P R O P E R T Y Grade
II-listed Queen Anne-style
three-storey detached house
L O C AT I O N West London
R O O M S Sitting room, dining
area, kitchen-diner, five
bedrooms, four bathrooms
P U R C H A S E D 2019
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘My clients used to live in a single-
storey detached property near
San Francisco,’ says Cherie.

T
asked with re-designing a
Queen Anne-style property in
Chiswick for a family relocating
from America, interior designer
Cherie Lee has successfully combined British
eclectic style with some sunny Californian
cheer. ‘Our clients fell in love with the period
charm of their home, particularly the Art
Deco elements in the existing architecture,
and were keen to do justice to the original
features,’ says Cherie of Cherie Lee Interiors
(cherieleeinteriors.co.uk). ‘They were
attracted to Humphrey Munson kitchens and
had seen projects we’d worked on together
previously, so were drawn to our luxurious
but lived-in, comfortable design style.’

TOP TEAMWORK
Luckily, the clients had a good understanding
of the look they wanted to create and were
fully involved in the design process. ‘This is
the most important thing as everything else
can flow from that,’ says Cherie.
With two sons, aged eight and 11, a key
priority was creating a sociable family kitchen
that also allowed the owners to indulge their
love of cooking and that gave views of the
wraparound garden. ‘To accomplish this, a
wall was removed between the existing
kitchen and a second reception room to create
a larger kitchen-diner,’ says Cherie. ‘New
units were sited at the back of the room to
allow access to the garden and free up space
for a casual seating area. As our clients love
entertaining, we also added a showstopping
spiral wine cellar to create a wow factor.’
Both Cherie and her clients were keen to
incorporate natural stone. ‘We wanted

92 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 DINING ROOM
Pocket doors separate this from the living space,
giving flexibility for entertaining. The custom drinks
cabinet (left) is perfect for cocktail-making.
Utility chairs, from £448 each, Stellar Works. Cross fixed
table in walnut by Matthew Hilton, from £2,600, Case
Furniture. Franz drinks cabinet, £10,535, Pinch

KITCHEN
This is one of the few areas with neutral walls,
but this is balanced by black cabinetry, brass and
colour pops from the bespoke leather bar stools.
Similar kitchen cabinetry starts from £60,000,
Humphrey Munson. Thomas O’Brien Hicks pendant
lights by Visual Comfort, £660 each, Lux Deco
 MAIN BEDROOM
The clients’ bed was shipped over from California
and was the starting point for the classic look.
Botticelli king size bed, £1,550, Perch & Parrow, is similar. favo u r ite ro o m
Signature stools, from £1,617, George Smith. Walls in
Mid Lead Colour, £48.50 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene ‘The dining room –
it works as a great
transitional space
between all the rooms
on the ground floor’

something that picked up the brass accents

in the room and selected a book-matched
marble for behind the hob,’ says Cherie.
‘Rather than a more pared-back, painted
design, the extractor canopy adds an
industrial element and feels quite American
as a nod to the clients’ origins. The material
combination really makes a statement
without feeling at all showy.’

C R E AT I V E D E S I G N
As the dining room is open to the hallway,
kitchen-diner and sitting room, this space
required a lot of thought. ‘We incorporated
elements of the schemes from all of the
related spaces and, as a result, the dining
room successfully pulled the different zones
together,’ says Cherie.
Reconfiguring the main bedroom
suite, which was part of a recent modern
extension, had its challenges for the designer
too. ‘It felt very new and removed from the
character found elsewhere in the property,’
says Cherie. ‘By adding a stained-glass
partition, subtle separation was created
between the new dressing room and
bedroom area. A partial stud wall was also
erected in the en suite to create a dramatic
focal point for the double vanity, tiles and
wallpaper, with the practical elements such
as the shower and toilet sitting behind.’

S U B T L E D E TA I L S
To create a sense of cohesion, dark colours
and metal accents have been used
throughout. Subtle reeding - within the glass
pocket doors, in the bar stool legs and on the
sitting room TV unit - all help link the
ground floor rooms together.
Cherie’s clients are delighted with the
result, and particularly love the banquette
seating and pedestal table just off the
kitchen. ‘It’s a space that looks like it may
only be for occasional use, but has actually
MAIN EN SUITE been one of the most popular spots in the
Marble, brass and a statement wallpaper combine house,’ says Cherie. ‘Seeing your clients
to create a standout space for the couple. living in their home and receiving feedback
Locky double basin vanity, from £5,950, Drummonds.
Great Ormond Street Signature wallpaper, that they are truly enjoying all of the
£104 a roll, Little Greene elements you’ve discussed and implemented
is the best feeling in the world.’

9 4 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 Smart move
The owners of this new build wanted to combine practicality
with luxury, so asked design firm Wells and Maguire to help
FEATURE KAREN WILSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL CRAIG

KITCHEN-DINER
Apricot accents and brass details
deliver the luxury look in here.
Hirst table, from £4,510; similar Hugo chair,
from £635, both The Sofa & Chair Company.
Blossom chandelier, £4,128, Porta Romana

H A L LWAY
All the wallpapers chosen are wipeable –
a necessity for a family of five.
Shadow Leaves wallpaper,
from £19.49m, Tektura

SITTING ROOM
Elements of black ground the scheme.
Belmond black wenge oak sideboard by Liang
& Eimil, £1,408, Furnish, is similar. Try the
Pavillion Chic Houston armchair in Grey
velvet, £393.60, Pavilion Broadway

9 6 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 16

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
New build three-storey semi by
developers Berkeley Group
L O C AT I O N
London
R O O M S Sitting room,
kitchen-diner, five bedrooms,
(two en suite), two bathrooms
P U R C H A S E D 2019
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘Before moving here, the family
lived in a four-bedroom 1930s
semi nearby,’ says Emily.
 SITTING ROOM
An ottoman in a durable faux suede acts as a
coffee table by adding a tray, but also
doubles up as additional seating.
Ealga 12-arm chandelier by RV Astley, £922,
House of Isabella. The Ogee grey and cream
raised trellis rug, £555, Rowen Homes, is similar.
Stock Hopper mirror, £645, Robert Langford

98 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 ‘We always get asked
D E C O R ATI N G TI P
what the paint colour is in the living room,
but it’s actually a suede-effect paper by
Tektura that is very hard-wearing’

B
y creating the perfect home for masculine but relaxing environment. ‘In
a busy family of five, interior feng shui, blue is considered to promote
designers Emily Holder and peace and calm, so we chose a deep-navy
Danielle Marsh proved that velvet, with a beautiful, brushed brass
practicality and style can indeed mix. trim for contrast,’ says Emily. ‘The wall
The co-founders of Wells and Maguire behind features a complementary deep
(wellsandmaguire.com) were hired by textured wallcovering, which picks out
the owners of this Victorian-inspired the metallic elements.’
new build to inject some personality The kitchen was zoned into three
and create a cohesive flow throughout. areas: a cooking and breakfast area,
‘We were asked to come up with a dining area, and cosy, less formal seating
scheme that was suitable for a balanced area. ‘To create a homely feel while
family lifestyle with a unique and retaining a sense of space, the dining
luxurious feel, that would also table was positioned centrally with a
incorporate the local surroundings of the feature blossom chandelier sitting
Richmond area,’ says Emily. ‘We kept proudly above,’ says Danielle. ‘The
the scheme light throughout, adding stunning bespoke bar stools feature
accents of autumnal tones such as apricot beautiful blossom fabric to the back,
and burnt sienna, mixed with a base injecting a subtle pattern that really
palette of neutral creams and taupes.’ makes the furniture stand out from
Creating balance and flow was a the white Shaker-style kitchen.’
key consideration. ‘We were consistent A high-back sofa in a beautiful ivory
in using the base colours and adding fabric sits in front of a feature alpine
accent tones in each area,’ explains wallpaper. ‘The cushions we’ve used here
Danielle. ‘For example, we used the include bespoke tassels and the tones
same fabric on a cushion in the kitchen complement the fabric on the dining
seating area as we did for the piping chairs and bar stools, keeping all zoned
of a cushion in the sitting room.’ areas connected but with a sense of
The most important room for the contrast,’ explains Danielle.
homeowner was the sitting room, where The pair have designed a scheme
the whole family can be together. ‘Our that is both welcoming and homely,
biggest challenge was to create enough while still exuding a sense of luxury. ‘It’s
seating for a large family but to keep the so satisfying to create a home for a family
overall feel formal,’ says Emily. ‘We did to live and grow in,’ says Emily. ‘Our
this by using a variety of styles. By adding ethos is to make living beautiful and we
a large three-seater sofa, two armchairs, a wanted the clients to feel comfortable
bench and a window seat, we created a and at home but also to be proud of their
cohesive feel that isn’t too cluttered.’ surroundings. It’s the small details that
In the main bedroom, a full-height bring a scheme together, creating a
headboard was designed to create a unique and timeless look.’

MAIN BEDROOM CHILD’S BEDROOM BEDROOM

The designers wanted to Soft, soothing white tones The scheme’s neutral
make a bold statement with a hint of blush pink backdrop allows the vibrant
by extending the feature create a calming space. tones of the teal lamp base
headboard right up to the Lynton White Gents and cushions to shine.
ceiling for added drama. wardrobe, £249, Dunelm. Antero Teal table lamp
Bespoke headboard in Try the canvas storage cube by Heathfield, £560.20,
Volterra 15 fabric, £32.34m, in Grey Stardust, £18, Great Decolight. Zanja green and
Kobe. Deena bench, from Little Trading Co. Classic gold metallic detail cushion
£1,455, The Sofa & Chair chest of drawers, £500, with cover, £18, La Redoute, is a
Company; in White Star baby changing top, £99, good alternative. Double
fabric by Aldeco. Basilica The White Company. Etsy Smith headboard in house
Smoke ceiling pendant by sells cherry blossom wall cream fabric, £345, Loaf,
Heathfield, £374, Decolight decals, from around £30 has a similar style
 A BOLD MOVE
Going big was a gamble for interiors shop owner
Kate Hollingsworth, but one that has paid off handsomely
FEATURE SARA BIRD | PHOTOGRAPHY DAN DUCHARS/THE CONTENTED NEST

10 0 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 17

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
Detached late-Victorian villa
L O C AT I O N
A conservation area in Hereford
R O O M S Sitting room, dining
room, kitchen, study, cloakroom,
five bedrooms (two en suite),
two bathrooms
P U R C H A S E D 2017
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘My previous home was in central
Hereford,’ says Kate.

SITTING ROOM
Using the same colour above and below the picture rail
accentuates the high ceilngs.
Walls in Purbeck Stone modern emulsion, £53 for 2.5ltr, Farrow
& Ball. Rug, £375; large Rollo sofa, from £1,395; Pink Rollo
loveseat, from £11,50, both Camperdown Lane

EXTERIOR
A chair is the perfect place to take off muddy boots.
Door in Hague Blue, £73 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
 BEST BUY ‘The dining chairs were a great find from my neighbour Mike, an

W
anting more space is garden but was always desperate for
a popular reason for more outdoor space. ‘I put my house on
selling a home but, for the market and it sold straight away,’ says
Kate Hollingsworth, Kate, ‘and then I saw that this place was
it was a shrewd business move, too. Kate, for sale again and I had to go for it. I
along with her two sisters, is a co-founder can’t help wondering if I hadn’t been
of interiors shop Camperdown Lane secretly coveting it all along.’
(@kate_hollingsworth_home; The house had previously been
@camperdownlane), and she recognised carved up into bedsits and had later been
that a big home could also double as a returned to a family home. ‘They’d done
location for photographing collections. a good job but there were tell-tale signs
‘I’m serial renovator so I wasn’t such as sliced coving and gnarled
unnerved by the size of this place,’ says floorboards and those were the things I
Kate. ‘And in fact it wasn’t the first time was mentally preparing for,’ says Kate.
I had tried to buy it either.’ Kate had an However, big old houses have a habit
offer accepted when the house was last on of producing big old headaches and Kate
the market five years earlier but the sale soon discovered problems. ‘The boiler
had fallen through. Instead she moved was ancient, which was noticeable
into the city centre with a tiny courtyard moving in in winter, but also the roof

102 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
antiques dealer. I bought 10 chairs, painted them and reupholstered them myself’

KITCHEN
Kate wanted to keep an open feel so
opted for only base units.
Walls in Strong White modern emulsion,
£53 for 2.5ltr; cabinetry in Railings modern
eggshell, £73 for 2.5ltr, both Farrow & Ball.
Contemporary wall light with Hereford
shade, £145, Fritz Fryer

DINING ROOM
A bright shade of pink brings real
joy and drama to this space.
Sideboard in Off-Black modern eggshell,
£53 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Large
floral canvas wall hanging, £59; zinc
planters on stands (right), from £45,
all Camperdown Lane. Carved Indian
mirror, from £425, Kirei Home

STUDY
Bold artwork pops against blue walls.
Walls in Inchyra Blue modern emulsion,
£53 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball
 LAST WORD ‘Be prepared for extra expenses during a renovation - we hadn’t

B AT H R O O M
Putting the bath in the corner makes it
even more of a feature.
Chichester vanity unit, £1,010, Neptune;
painted in Scree intelligent eggshell, £68
for 2.5ltr, Little Greene

H A L LWAY
The original door glazing is the star.
Walls in Strong White estate emulsion,
£49.50 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

CLOAKROOM
A pretty print adds a fun touch.
Pineapple wallpaper, £93 a roll,
Barneby Gates

MAIN BEDROOM
Foliage adds to the sumptuous look.
Floral canvas, £59, Camperdown Lane

BEDROOM
The seascape is by Kate’s sister Michelle.
Quilt, £290, Camperdown Lane

10 4 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
planned on finding perilously rotten floor joists’

leaked and that had caused damp to requiring two steels, new windows, a
spread across the front elevation,’ she new kitchen and replacing perilously
says. ‘Fixing it involved knocking out rotten floor joists. ‘It’s a miracle that
the plaster in almost all the front rooms the floor hadn’t given way,’ adds Kate.
and it was a cost I hadn’t factored in.’ There is still some work to do on this
It was such a messy job that Kate house but, for the most part, it’s now a
and her sons, Jake, now 18, and Billy, 16, comfortable home. Having to scale back
moved in with Kate’s parents, returning on the decorating budget, Kate has been
for a second spell when work on the clever with surfaces, sanding floorboards,
kitchen mushroomed, leaving them with and being bold with colour. When it
little more than a basic utility beyond a came to furniture, it took her a while to
dusty building site for almost 10 months. get to grips with the scale. ‘Everything
‘The plan had been to just live with has to be bigger than you imagine,’ she
the existing kitchen,’ Kate explains, ‘but says. ‘The previous owners had a lot of
it didn’t work. The room was dark and big old brown Victorian furniture and
north-facing and it was cut off at the end I can understand why now as even the
of a corridor and needed integrating into biggest lamp can look average. But I love
the house.’ What started as a simple plan sourcing vintage pieces, and it certainly
to move and widen a doorway, ended up helps having your own shop.’
no. 18
KITCHEN-DINER
Aluminium-framed bifold
doors open up the space
to the garden, while
houseplants further
soften the boundaries
between inside and out.
Bifold doors, price on
request, Denval. The
Relaxdays industrial bar
stool, £104, ManoMano,
has a similar look

MATERIAL
GAINS
From an island made of reclaimed timber to metal
piping used as curtain rods, there’s no limit to Pippa
Mundy’s creative approach to home renovation
FEATURE AND STYLING LAURA CROMBIE | PHOTOGRAPHY BRETT CHARLES
 HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
Victorian terraced house
L O C AT I O N Wales
R O O M S Sitting room,
kitchen-diner, snug, utility room,
cloakroom, five bedrooms, two
bathrooms (one en suite)
P U R C H A S E D 2013
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘We were living just a few streets
away in a smaller terraced house,’
says Pippa.

M
ost people taking on a major
renovation spend months
researching every last detail
before starting. Not so for
Pippa Mundy, whose transformation of her
period home became more of an ever- KITCHEN
Pippa’s carpenter made
evolving journey. ‘I knew there were aspects the island and worktop
I had to finalise in advance, like the plans for from reclaimed materials,
the kitchen extension, but I wanted to allow while the wood for the
shelving came from old
the detail to evolve,’ she says. ‘I thought that
church pews.
once we’d stripped the house back to its bare Stainless-steel sink, from
bones, things would reveal themselves to £315, Belmont. Ottava light
shape the direction of the project.’ (above island), £35, Ikea.
For reclaimed wood
While Pippa’s intuition proved correct, it flooring, try Lawson’s Yard
was her ability to remain calm in a crisis that
was truly invaluable. When the second-floor
ceiling fell down while being stripped of
wallpaper, she saw it as an opportunity to
apply for planning permission for a roof light
in the newly exposed pitched roof. When the
extension foundations needed costly changes,
Pippa amended plans to include a supporting
pier structure, now a focal point. ‘Often
problems are just something to work with and
can lead to unimagined possibilities,’ she says.
Pippa’s unerring commitment to making
the project a success is even more surprising

SITTING from £795, Mendip

ROOM Stoves. Gaena simple
The original restored overmantel mirror,
fireplace now houses £175, Amor Décor, has
a wood burner. The this look. Walls in
writing bureau (far Gauze Dark absolute
right), which came matt emulsion, £48.50
from Pippa’s parents’ for 2.5ltr, Little Greene.
house, is a perfect fit White and pink
for the alcove. blossom wreath,
For a woodburner like £28.50, Breeze Home
this, try the Loxton 3, Furnishings, is similar

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 107
 HALLWAY when you consider that she lost both her
Original floorboards and parents, Julie and Phil, during the work.
a collection of curios
bring instant character to
‘I wanted the house to have something of
this inviting space. them in it, and to make me smile, so many
Sideboard in Old White of the items are theirs.’
chalk paint, £21.95 for 1ltr, The first phase of the renovation was to
Annie Sloan. Antique
tabletop writing slope, clear the space and replace the plumbing,
£145, The Penderyn heating and electrics. With the help of her
Furniture Co, is similar eldest son George, 21, and his friends, Pippa
ripped out old carpets and removed layers of
wallpaper. A curved brick chimney breast was
also uncovered and is now a feature in the
Jack and Jill en suite between the two double
bedrooms. On the floor below, Pippa added
Juliet balconies to the two bedrooms at the
back of the house to introduce more light.

ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT

On the ground floor, the property originally
comprised a front living room, sitting room
and a kitchen-breakfast room, but Pippa saw
the potential to extend into the side return,
creating a kitchen-dining-living space, plus a
cloakroom and utility room. ‘I had wanted it
to be open-plan, but needed to keep a
load-bearing pier between the original
sitting room and extension,’ she says. ‘It was
a blessing in disguise as I discovered an
original safe in that section of wall, which
I’ve made a feature of. It also means I have a
snug area where I can curl up.’
To create a bespoke kitchen island with a
steel worktop, Pippa sourced reclaimed wood
for the joiner, while the pine worktops and
shelving were crafted from the reclaimed
timber of church pews. The addition of shelf
brackets, coat hooks and curtain rods made
from pipe fittings bring a hint of industrial
style to the space. As Pippa explains, ‘the
house feels bold and experimental in parts,
but it’s very much a family home’.
With work complete, Pippa, George and
youngest son Finlay, 17, now take pleasure in
their unique home. ‘I’m not sure it will ever
be finished,’ Pippa muses. ‘Life is an
ever-changing journey and our homes should
be, too. It’s only a matter of time until I spot
something else in a reclamation yard and
work out a way to include it in the house.’

SNUG EN-SUITE
Tucked away in the SHOWER
kitchen, behind a wall ROOM
clad in salvaged wood, Pippa found the old
is this cosy space. wooden cupboard in a
The Alwinton chaise salvage yard and had
sofa in Clever Cotton the ceramic basin
Mix Iron, £3,662, Sofas mounted on top.
& Stuff, has this look. The Ricarda ceramic
Riva Home Argyll knit square countertop
heart-shaped cushion, basin, £113, Wayfair,
£10, Next has a similar look

108 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 MAIN BEDROOM
A restored fireplace and
chimney breast form the
focal point of this room.
Ikea’s Nymane pendant
light, £40, is similar.
Floorboards in Sail White
matt, £18 for 2.5ltr, Crown;
sealed with Ronseal
Diamond hard clear matt
varnish, £12 for 0.25ltr, B&Q

MAIN BEDROOM LANDING BATHROOM

Wooden furniture adds a rustic feel, including Keeping the look simple and allowing the Pippa removed a partition wall between the
this washstand (below), perfect for displaying original floorboards and staircase to shine sets bathroom and loo to create this stylish retreat.
vintage finds and a childhood photo of Pippa. the natural style for the rest of the house. Blanc White metro tiles, £25.95sq m, Walls
Wall in Dulux Chic Shadow matt emulsion, The William pendant light, £60.25, The Lighting and Floors. The Urban Grey ceramic floor tiles,
£17 for 2.5ltr, B&Q Superstore, has this look £9sq m, Wickes, are a good alternative

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 10 9
 no. 19
Creative journey
Interior designer Paolo Moschino has transformed a city penthouse
apartment into a welcoming home from home with a traditional twist
FEATURE PIP RICH | PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL MASSEY | STYLING MARY WEAVER

DINING AREA
Paolo used the natural
textures of wood and
leather for a softer,
more welcoming
ambience in this
open-plan space.
Bespoke table and
chairs, Paolo Moschino
for Nicholas Haslam.
Pooky’s Albert floor
lamp in antique brass,
£260, would also
work here

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 111
 KITCHEN
Rattan bar stools create a textural contrast to the
monochrome cabinetry and worktops.
Island unit, price on request, Caeserstone. Rattan stools
and brass pendant lights, price on request, both
Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
City penthouse
L O C AT I O N London
R O O M S Kitchen-diner/living
area/study, three bedrooms
(one en suite), bathroom
P U R C H A S E D 2017
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘The owners also have a house in
the country,’ says Paolo.
W
hen interior designer Paolo Moschino three bedrooms leading off. Paolo’s brief from his clients
first saw his clients’ London penthouse specified a couple of structural tweaks, which required
apartment, he instantly knew how to some creative thinking on his part. ‘The husband said to
revamp the interior. ‘When you see a me, “I don’t like to see the kitchen when I’m sitting on
property, it will tell you what to do with it,’ he says. ‘It all the sofa,” which I thought was funny, as he’d just bought
depends on how the light falls in the space. The property an open-plan penthouse. To complicate matters, the
developer who built this apartment had originally covered owners didn’t want to build any partitions as we all
it in bright white paint. What was needed was a softer agreed that would obstruct the beauty and light of the
aesthetic. This was also what my clients wanted as they space.’ To separate the cooking and living spaces, Paolo
already had a house in the country and wanted this city used screens to zone the main room into four areas; a
apartment to be like a holiday home – a home from home.’ sitting area, kitchen, dining space and study area.
The penthouse is constructed from glass and Once the zoning had been set in place, Paolo began
concrete and consists of a large central living space with working on the interior design, with the help of his

H A L LWAY
A caramel-toned wallpaper brings richness to this space.
Haruki sisal wallpaper in Oatmeal, $186 a roll, Schumacher. Grasse chair,
price on request, Alfonso Marina. Bespoke rug, Tim Page Carpets

LIVING AREA
‘I didn’t want to spread the artwork around – it’s so much nicer and more
impactful to group it compactly,’ says Paolo.
Bespoke chair and stool, both Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam. Walls in
Not Totally White absolute matt emulsion, £51 for 2.5ltr, Papers and Paints

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 113
 MAIN BEDROOM
Soft, subtle shades of blue and grey combined with rustic,
time-worn furniture make this a soothing retreat.
Bespoke headboard and lamp, both Paolo Moschino for Nicholas
Haslam. The blue chest of drawers was found in a Parisian flea market
assistant Naomi Hall. ‘It’s fair to say that the apartment distressed woods and classic soft furnishings, resulting
is a pretty good summation of my personal style – I call in an interior that feels very welcoming and homely.
it classic with a European twist,’ he explains. ‘I suppose Neutrals are a key theme throughout the decor,
you might also say I’m a maximalist – I like to use lots although Paolo used pattern and colour to great effect
of traditional chintz and handmade pieces,’ he adds. in the study. Here, vivid cerulean walls pick out one
‘I also love to mix and match styles. I believe that of the blue shades in the daybed upholstery fabric. ‘I
contrast in interiors is very important indeed.’ thought it would be fun to paint the walls that shade, to
The penthouse apartment is almost entirely made of convince the owner to try new things,’ says Paolo, who
glass, with natural light shining in from every direction. bought interiors brand Nicholas Haslam in 1995. ‘Design
In addition, the main living space is south-facing, so to is about adding layers to an interior and mixing the
soften the brightness, Paolo used plenty of sheer linen unexpected; pairing a polished wooden table with rattan,
fabric. He successfully created a country-house look for example – or emerald side tables with dark brown
by combining antiques and heirloom furniture with furniture. Layers are what make a house a home.’

BEDROOM
Paolo mixed patterns, plains and stripes to evoke a classic
country-house mood in this inviting guest bedroom.
Similar Russian Tulip Blue wallpaper, £120 a roll; cushions in Melba Stripe Teal,
£130m; bespoke headboards and lamp base, all Paolo Moschino for Nicholas
Haslam. Similar wool mono throw, £65, Liberty

MAIN EN SUITE
This sleek and modern space is made lighter and brighter by the skylight.
Chinese ceramic stool, precise on request, Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 115
 no. 20
R E N OVAT I ON
S T OR Y
Trish Thomas and Dan Ellitts have carefully restored their
run-down villa, creating a home full of unique charm
FEATURE MARISHA TAYLOR | PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES FRENCH

SITTING ROOM
Good quality shelving was a must throughout the
couple’s home. ‘We both love music and to read and
between us have hundreds of books and a large
vinyl collection with over 1,000 records,’ says Trish.
Lancelot coffee table, £599, Tikamoon. Fireplace
painted in Tilton, £21.95 for 1ltr, Annie Sloan

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 117
 KITCHEN DINER
‘I used large Moroccan-style tiles on the kitchen
floor and continued them out onto the terrace to
make it feel like one space,’ says Trish. By knocking
through the rooms and fitting floor-to-ceiling sliding
doors, the couple maximised on the space and light.
Spaces Bruges petal black tiles, £52.67m, Topps Tiles.
Docks fir wood and metal industrial dining table (seen
opposite), £161, Maisons du Monde. Similar
Williamsburg dining chairs, £475 for two, Cox & Cox

HOME TRUTHS
THE PROPERTY
A five-bedroom, three-storey
Victorian townhouse
L O C AT I O N
Southeast London
R O O M S Sitting room, living
room, kitchen-diner, five
bedrooms, two bathrooms
P U R C H A S E D 2017
PREVIOUS PROPERTY
‘We lived down the road in a
Victorian terrace,’ says Trish.
W
LIVING ROOM
The upstairs lounge is the grandest room in
hen it came to renovating their the house. ‘The previous owners used this
as the main bedroom, but it is so lovely we
south London Victorian home, wanted to make use of it during the day.’
Trish Thomas and her husband Find similar mid-century armchairs at Pamono
Dan Ellitts, were no strangers
to hard work, having renovated their two previous
homes together. ‘Our last renovations had been
positive experiences,’ says Trish, ‘and although
friends thought we were mad starting all over again, HALLWAY
we felt ready to invest in a larger-scale project.’ The pair restored a sense of grandeur to this space
by widening the doorway out to the entrance hall.
The couple’s three-storey property was in a Large Luca mirror in Waxed Black, £1,195, Omelo
bad way when they bought it. The top two floors Mirrors, is similar. Sputnik table lamp in White,
had been divided into bedsits in the 1970s, and £160, Abigail Ahern
three were defunct kitchenettes. ‘There was a
small, barely functioning bathroom and the tiniest
shower room I had ever seen,’ recalls Trish. The
original windows had been replaced with ugly double
glazing and the electricity was still connected to a
coin meter. However, with its sweeping central
staircase, generous proportions and lots of original
features, it was a beautiful house. ‘We knew with
some loving restoration it had the potential to be
something wonderful,’ says Trish.
Phased over two years, when time, energy and
money allowed, the couple embarked on an ambitious
renovation. ‘It was hard in ways we just hadn’t
imagined,’ says Trish. ‘In our previous project the
house was in good condition to begin with, but in
this property, everything had to be stripped back
before we could even begin.’ The plumbing and
electrics were replaced, every wall replastered and
flooring restored. Space was taken from the large
main bedroom to create a new bathroom, and on

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 119
 MAIN BEDROOM
Trish painted a feature ceiling and matched with
the woodwork to add a touch of sophistication.
Ogilvy swing arm wall lamp in Matt Black and Antique
Brass, £59, Made. Ceiling in Down Pipe estate
emulsion, £49.50 for 2.5ltr; Farrow & Ball

MAIN BATHROOM
Trish has created a stylish wet room with a glass
screen separating the overhead shower and
freestanding bath from the rest of the room.
BC Designs double-skinned boat bath, £1,129, Drench

the top floor, two of the old kitchenettes were

converted into a bedroom and a second bathroom.
The biggest job was the work on the ground floor.
‘We wanted to maximise on the space and light so
knocked the two rooms into one, opening up the
kitchen to the full width of the house, with floor-to-
ceiling sliding doors across the reinforced back wall.’
BEDROOM Thirty-five cubic metres of earth was then removed
The yellow painted cupboard and soft by hand from the garden to create a terrace level to
furnishings pop against the grey walls.
Alcove cupboard painted in Muga architect eggshell,
the kitchen floor. ‘Working to a tight budget, we did
£29.50 for 750ml, Paint & Paper Library most of the demolition work ourselves ,which was
gruelling.’ However, the hard work paid off and the
space has been transformed. The bright, spacious
kitchen now opens onto a secluded terrace, with a
clear view right from the front door to the garden.
Once all the major building work was complete,
Dan and Trish thought carefully about the best way
to decorate and unify the three-storey property. The
central staircase and landings are linked with grey
woodwork, and a grey palette continues throughout
the house as a neutral backdrop, creating cohesion
as you move through space. Within the rooms
Trish’s distinctive style can be seen through splashes
of colour and pattern, greenery, large hand-painted
canvases and an assortment of ceramics and curios
that have been collected over the years. ‘I like a mix
of styles,’ says Trish. ‘For me it’s all about layers and
unexpected surprises, spaces that feel natural rather
than contrived. This renovation has allowed us to
explore our interior style and has built on our skills
and confidence – we are incredibly proud of the
house and what we have achieved.’

120 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 ROOMS
IN FOCUS
We look at a specific project in five amazing houses
to give advice and inspiration in detail

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 12 3
 P R O J E C T D E TA I L S
O W N E R S Julian and Julie
Nicol and their daughters Jess,
18, and Liv, 16
H O U S E A five-bedroom
barn conversion in Somerset
W O R K Part of a major
conversion project, the
open-plan kitchen includes
dining, soft seating and a
home office area

RUSTIC REVIVAL
12 4 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 21

SEAMLESS DESIGN
As this is one of the main living
spaces for the family, they decided
to paint the classic cabinetry a
similar shade to the walls so the
units blend into the background.
Hartford kitchen in Thistle and
Lithodora (island), precise on request,
Tom Howley. Iconic White quartz
worktops, from £400sq m, Silestone
by Cosentino. Splash encaustic tiles
in French Blue, £99sq m, Little Tile
Company. Ash Grey floor tiles,
£65sq m, Somerset Tile

Converting an old stone barn into a home gave Julian and Julie Nicol
the chance to design the kitchen of their dreams
FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON | PHOTOGRAPHY IKON PHOTOGRAPHY

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 12 5
 PA RT Y T I M E
With seating at the island, table and in between, the
family got the entertaining space they were after.
RF540ADUX4 fridge-freezer, £2,299; OB60SD11PX1 single
ovens, £1,299 each; OB60SD9PX1 single oven, £1,249;
OS60NDB1 steam oven, £1,599, all Fisher & Paykel. PRO3
Nordic Round single boiling tap, £950, Quooker. Elstead
pendant lights, £112.78 each, Lighting Direct. Shoreditch
stool in Harry Cloud Linen, £305, Neptune, is similar

M
ost people don’t downsize until their children was set on bespoke cabinetry that would be long-lasting.
leave home. But, after rattling around in a After trying several companies, all of which ‘lacked
nine-bedroom farmhouse for too long, Julian vision’, Julian and Julie came across Tom Howley’s
and Julie Nicol decided it was time to find Bristol showroom, where designer Rowena Sim quickly
something more practical for a family of four. ‘We’d stayed translated their ideas. The brief was a modern-classic look
in the house for my father who was living with us, but when that wasn’t too fussy, but would still be a comfortable fit
he passed away we found it far too big – not to mention with the ancient stone barn. ‘Rowena started answering
terribly draughty,’ says Julian. The couple found their new questions we didn’t even know we had,’ says Julian.
home just 350 yards away. ‘It was a tumbledown barn,’ he
says. ‘It was a dream scenario. Planning permission was DESIGN SOLUTIONS
already approved and we got to choose everything, including The L-shape kitchen has an island at its heart, with four
the large, open-plan kitchen-living space we’d always wanted.’ built-in ovens on the longest run behind. The barn’s
structural steel support beams provide a natural stopping
THE BRIEF point for the kitchen units on the fridge elevation.
As the main chef in the family, Julian was keen for a kitchen Office furniture in the same range continues on the
that was less remote from the main entertaining spaces. He other side of the beam – both Julian and Julie work from

126 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
home. With two sofas, bar stools, two armchairs and FINISHING TOUCHES
a generous dining table, the room is fully equipped The couple love their boiling water tap, which has
with seating for every occasion. speeded up cooking and drink-making. There is also
plenty of storage incorporated into the island. Under the
M AT E R I A L S U S E D breakfast bar, three generous units provide ample space
For the cabinetry, the couple selected Tom Howley’s for extra tableware, board games and other paraphernalia
Hartford collection kitchen painted in Thistle and that might otherwise clutter the living areas.
Lithodora, with polished chrome knobs and handles.
‘Most of the house has schemes that are in restful shades LESSONS LEARNT
of grey,’ says Julian. ‘So the blue encaustic splashback tiles As the main chef, Julian had felt separated when friends
really shake up the simple cabinetry.’ Unlike ceramic or came to dinner while he was busy with the preparations.
porcelain tiles, encaustic tiles need to be sealed to protect ‘In the new kitchen, I’m part of the conversation, but the
against moisture and stains. You may need to reseal every island keeps everyone out of the way when I’m in full
one to two years, so do check with your supplier. The flow,’ he says. ‘It’s also brought us together more as a
chalky surface is incredibly tactile and, as each tile is family – we all naturally congregate in this one room.
handmade, the results are unique. And of course, draughts are now a distant memory.’

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 12 7
 ON A LIGHTER NOTE
Every design decision Susan and Matthew Smith made while revamping their
dark and dated kitchen was aimed at increasing the sense of light and space
FEATURE KAREN WILSON | PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID RANNARD/CLICK CREATE

12 8 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 22
P R O J E C T D E TA I L S

A
O W N E R S Susan and
Matthew Smith
H O U S E A Grade II-listed lthough they were drawn to the character of
four-bedroom cottage in their 17th-century cottage, Susan and Matthew
East Sussex Smith were unimpressed by the dark and dreary
W O R K Installing a stylish new
kitchen they inherited. ‘It had an uneven quarry
kitchen and island to complement
the characterful beams and joists tiled floor, only three cupboards and high slate worktops,
which meant I had to be on tiptoes,’ recalls Susan. ‘The
previous island was a tiny square with a hole in the middle
and our dog used to get in the way by hiding in there.’

THE BRIEF
As it’s an old cottage, neither the walls or floors are flat
and the design had to work around the beams and joists.
‘Nothing really flowed or worked for us,’ says Susan. ‘We
desperately wanted a new kitchen that would be bright,
cheerful and welcoming, as well as more practical.’

DESIGN SOLUTIONS
The new L-shaped kitchen includes a tall double cupboard
with washing machine at one end, plus a large island. There’s
also a separate section between two doors, which houses an
American-style fridge freezer and another tall larder unit.
‘We love that there are dedicated shelves in the cupboard by
the entrance door for all the dog’s things,’ says Susan. ‘And
the dishwasher is next to the crockery and cutlery tray on
the island, making unloading the dishwasher almost a joy.’

M AT E R I A L S U S E D
For their cabinetry, the couple chose a warm off-white that
works well with the burnished brass handles. White quartz
worktops create a light, airy feel, while the dog-friendly
porcelain floor is easy to clean but looks like limestone.
‘Herringbone Kitchens guided us on colour as we knew
we wanted something to brighten up the space,’ says Susan.
‘Choosing white quartz would mean light bouncing back
up, and they advised on a lighter paint for the kitchen as
the dirt from the dog wouldn’t show up too much.’

FINISHING TOUCHES
The couple are gradually adding colourful accessories. ‘I
love bowls, jugs and pots,’ says Susan. ‘My favourites are by
Sophie Hamilton Pottery and Lisa Hammond – both are
extremely good potters. I’ve also got my eye on a nice big
kitchen clock from Labour and Wait.’ Next they plan to add
a small table and benches next to the island where they can
have breakfast and lunch by the French doors. ‘It’ll be a nice
spot for working from home, too,’ says Susan.

LESSONS LEARNT

BRIGHT SIDE Finding the right installers was key. ‘In our previous home,
The cabinet and wall colours are the kitchen company used a third party who didn’t deliver
light but also manage to give a to the quality we expected,’ says Susan. ‘In contrast, our
warm, calm feeling, while the
marine blue cooker adds a bold experience with Herringbone was excellent. As a small
pop of colour and contrast. family-run business, they really listened to our needs.’ Now
The Westminster bespoke the pair love cooking in here. ‘Everything has its place and it’s
Shaker-style kitchen in Myland’s become the heart of the home,’ says Susan. ‘The cabinetry is
Hoxton Grey, Herringbone
Kitchens. Everhot 110i range timeless yet in keeping with the character of our house and
cooker, £9,815, Blades Heating is practical with a dog who often has muddy paws.’

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 129
 SMART STORAGE
At the end of the sink run, a floor-to-
ceiling cupboard with plenty of oak
shelves neatly and discreetly houses a
washing machine, laundry and cleaning
products, dog paraphernalia
and other utility cupboard essentials.
Verona Quartz worktops and splashback,
£660sq m (excluding fabrication),
Herringbone Kitchens. Bakes pull handles,
from £59.47 each; Cotswold bun knobs,
£26.21 each, both Armac Martin. Portland
Zigzag non-slip washable rug, £39.99,
Hug at Home. Miele washing machine,
£1,289, Martins of Hawkhurst. Walls in
Dimity estate emulsion, £49.50 for
2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

13 0 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 DREAM ISLAND
A big workstation was at the top of the couple’s wish list
as their previous one was small and impractical. The quartz
worktop bounces light around the room.
Sasha four spotlight bar in Ivory/Brass, £32, John Lewis
& Partners. PHG oak shelving with brass brackets, £30.77,
Herringbone Kitchens. Lulworth Buff porcelain floor tiles,
from £46.80sq m, Mandarin Stone

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 13 1
 no. 23
HISTORY LESSON
Award-winning interior designer Katharine Pooley knew just how to make this
sitting room contemporary, while also paying homage to the home’s historic past
FEATURE MELANIE WHITEHOUSE | PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES MCDONALD

P R O J E C T D E TA I L S
O W N E R Alastair Askington
H O U S E A 6,000sq ft,
seven-floor, white stucco
Victorian townhouse in central
London, which was originally
built as a coach house
W O R K A redesign retaining
the original facade but replacing
and renovating everything else

OLD MEETS NEW

Modern art sits comfortably in this scheme, which is
filled with antiques such as the Chinese stools by the
fireplace and the Venetian mirror.
Art by Rebecca Meanley. Bella Figura’s Burlington Gardens
chandelier, from £6,850, is similar

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 13 3
T
he renovation of this London home included
reconfiguring the property to create six
bedroom suites, a roof terrace, dining and living
rooms and a basement gym. The brief given
to Katharine Pooley of Katharine Pooley London
(katharinepooley.com) was to breathe life into an old
building and create a new interior that carefully balanced
respect for the past with the comfort and luxuriousness of
contemporary design. ‘In the sitting room we added a new
timber floor, marble fireplace and panelled double doors,
which I designed,’ says Katharine, who was named British
Interior Designer of the Decade in 2019. ‘I’ve worked
with Alastair for years and we share a passion for luxurious
finishes, colourful art and British craftsmanship.’

THE BRIEF
Alastair wanted a spacious, contemporary look that had a
gallery-like feel to display large artwork and rare antiques.
‘Alastair has a fabulous eye for detail and was involved
throughout,’ says Katharine. ‘He likes hard, luxurious
finishes like bronze, mirror and ebonised wood, tempered
with soft fabrics, silk wallpaper and touches of colour.’

DESIGN SOLUTIONS
The big wall spaces were perfect for showcasing impactful
art, so Katharine chose a pair of large-scale canvases by
British artist Rebecca Meanley. Antique Chinese stools
sit either side of the fireplace and an octagonal Venetian
mirror (c.1890) above it. Katharine updated a vintage
feature bar by wrapping the doors in a bespoke finish.
The top of the bar showcases a display of antique Asian
jars and pots. Most of the antiques are from Guinevere
Antiques, a favourite source for unique pieces. Touches
of soft blue appear in the bespoke silk floor rug and the
gathered fabric lampshades made from vintage saris.

FINISHING TOUCHES
Small details make a big difference, such as the Samuel &
Sons trim on the curtains. ‘Working with Katharine on
this project has been a complete joy from start to finish,’
says Alastair. ‘She instinctively knows what will work and
steered me towards the right decisions. The final interior
is luxurious, elegant and completely captivating.’

SOFT TOUCH
The vintage Rubelli Forcola bar cabinet has been covered
with a bespoke wallcovering from Tatiana Tafur. Hard
surfaces, like mirror and marble, are softened with velvet
cushions, full-length curtains and a textured rug.
Raphia drinks bar, £599, Swoon, has this look. Curtain trim in
Aristotle Greek Key in Lake, price on request, Samuel & Sons.
Similar velvet cushions in Navy/Silver, £38 each, The French
Bedroom Company. Diamond Murano glass large lamp
with brushed gold finish, from £2,025, Bella Figura. Dazzle
rug, from £8,700, Sahrai Milano. Chatsworth side table
(above left), £2,250, Katharine Pooley
2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 13 5
 CHARACTER PIECE
Interior designer Rebecca Leivars combined the colours of the countryside
with a vibrant wallpaper to produce a standout bedroom with real personality
FEATURE MELANIE WHITEHOUSE | PHOTOGRAPHY NICK SMITH

P R O J E C T D E TA I L S
O W N E R S Cressida and
Carl Smythe
H O U S E Grade-II listed
Georgian townhouse in
West Sussex
P R O J E C T To renovate a
dated bedroom and turn it into a
main bedroom with en suite that
complemented its rural location

F E AT U R E WA L L
The wallpaper, featuring a lush pastoral landscape with churches
and waterfalls, and based on a 17th-century painted cloth, reflects
the beautiful countryside surrounding the house.
Zoffany Verdure wallpaper, £132 a roll, Style Ideas Direct. LuxDeco’s Gild Mill
pendant light, £3,080, would work. Try Graham and Green’s Umberto brass chest
of drawers, £850. Made’s Julius quilted bedspread in Antique Gold, £109, is similar

13 6 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 24

T
he full restoration of this classic townhouse had
removed decades of built-up paint, restored the
original sash windows and shutters and updated
most of the rooms, but Cressida and Carl Smythe
wanted to put their own mark on the dated main bedroom.
‘This was our second home, so it was really important to
make it feel different to our London home,’ explains
Cressida. ‘The bedroom was very yellow and old-fashioned
and we wanted to give it a total overhaul.’

THE BRIEF
Cressida came across London-based interior designer
Rebecca Leivars of LEIVARS Interiors Studio. With 18
industry awards for her designs, and meticulous attention to
detail, she seemed the ideal choice for the project. ‘Cressida
was looking for help on the interior design schemes and we
were given the freedom to interpret what they wanted done
to restore their stunning home,’ says Rebecca. ‘The clients
put all their trust in us, which allowed us to live and breathe
the space. We kept things simple and let the house dictate.’

DESIGN SOLUTIONS
The bedroom design commanded a nod to nature, because
of the strong link to the nearby countryside and South
Downs. To get the effect, Rebecca chose a mustard and
teal colour scheme. ‘The striking Zoffany wallpaper was the
key to the success of the room, and the rest flowed from
there,’ she says. Flashes of gold in the chest of drawers and
overhead light, and a sumptuous green velvet bed, add to
the feeling of luxury and connect back to the wallpaper.
‘Everything in this room was new so we needed a balance,
which we achieved by bringing in these stunning walnut
antique wardrobes,’ says Rebecca.

FINISHING TOUCHES
The bedroom was the showstopper, so the en-suite shower
room took a more gentle approach, with softer tones of
the green that appear in the wallpaper repeated in the
paintwork. A few small, antique accessories add soul to the
bedroom. ‘Everything works beautifully and the finish
is to a really high standard,’ says Cressida. ‘We didn’t give
Rebecca much input but somehow she managed to
incorporate our taste, add our random pieces of furniture
and pull it all together. It was way better than we could
ever have done ourselves.’

GROUNDING MOMENTS
A vintage walnut wardrobe and chaise longue add
gravitas to this contemporary, upbeat room and
ground the colourful, vivacious wallpaper.
Find a similar antique wardrobe on Vinterior. Bespoke
chaise, The Sofa & Chair Company. For a traditional
radiator like this one, try the Paladin Kensington,
570mm, £304.33, Victorian Plumbing

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 13 7
 RICH TOUCHES
Bursts of gold and mustard
repeated throughout the
room complete the luxe
look of this makeover.
Loaf’s Hugger bed in Real Teal
Clever Velvet, £1,485, is similar.
Lorenzo bedside table, price on
request, Julian Chichester

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 UP AND AWAY
Jo and Joel Harding decided to make their loft space a family
bathroom and the result is truly outstanding
FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY | PHOTOGRAPHY AND STYLING COLIN POOLE

P R O J E C T D E TA I L S
OWNERS
Jo and Joel Harding
H O U S E A five-bed detached
period house in West Sussex
W O R K To convert the
loft space into a spacious
family bathroom

MODERN LOOK
‘A concrete shower tray was going to be expensive and
heavy,’ says Jo. ‘Whereas this composite one was
affordable and has a natural-looking texture.’
Merlyn Truestone tray, £555, Victorian Plumbing

14 0 | 2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1
 no. 25

W
hile renovating her family house in
West Sussex, Jo Harding realised that the
loft space had the potential to make the
spacious bathroom she was hoping for.
‘I was confident that the loft would make a fantastic
family bathroom,’ she says. ‘It was a nice size, but had
sloping walls and a low, sagging ceiling.’

THE BRIEF
As well as creating a practical bathroom for family and
visitors, Jo also wanted a place where she could relax
away from all the activity of the main part of the house.
To address the problems of the sloping wall and low
ceiling, the ceiling would have to be removed to reveal
its full height, as well as the beams, which would add
more character to the room as well as making it feel
more spacious. Stud walls were then needed along the
sides, and the upper walls and ceiling would have to
be plastered before the room could be laid out.
DESIGN SOLUTIONS

Once the walls were in place, the main issue was head
height. The centre of the far wall was the only spot for the
shower. That left the shallow side walls for the bath, loo
and basin. A platform was built for the bath to sit on and
for all the pipework to be hidden away. A gap had been
left under the window after the false walls were in and
the couple’s builder suggested fitting a built-in seat. ‘It’s
really handy and the children use it a lot,’ says Jo.

FINISHING TOUCHES
‘I’d seen some gorgeous encaustic floor tiles, but thought
they’d be too high-maintenance,’ says Jo. ‘Then I found
a practical porcelain version. The dark green is calm,
classic and ties in with the beams.’ Hexagon wall tiles
add texture and interest while complementing the floor
design. A composite shower tray was also chosen for its
similar appearance to concrete but with the advantage of
being far lighter. The double-length basin is also made
of resin, so it’s light enough to hang on a wall. ‘The room
works brilliantly for us, and visitors always say they look
forward to seeing our bathroom,’ says Jo.

A SA N C T UA RY S PAC E
‘The bath had to make a statement, but be
well-priced and practical,’ says Jo. ‘I love to run
a bath and relax in peace.’ The bath was put
on a stand to hide the pipework.
Arles double-ended free-standing bath, £599.97,
Better Bathrooms. Lily Pad Eucalyptus floor tiles,
£69.12sq m, Ca’Pietra. Hexagon Matt White mosaic
wall tiles, £154.58sq m, Tiles Direct. Cotti double-
hand basin, £495; Luxe wall-mounted basin mixers,
£290 each, all Lusso. Mode black-framed glass panel,
£229, VictoriaPlum.com. Similar jute mat, £28,
La Redoute. Bamboo planter, £27, BTFY. Similar
seagrass storage basket, £19.50, Oliver Bonas

2 5 B H N OV E M B ER 202 1 | 141
IDEAS TO SHARE

Inhabit is a new
wellness hotel in
London’s Paddington.
The restful decor
aims to encourage
guests to unwind
and relax.
inhabithotels.com

ROOM ENVY
FEATURE JACKY PARKER/PATRICK HAMILTON-COURTNEY

Each month we bring you a scheme that delights, dazzles and intrigues

A
ffordable, sustainable and wellbeing-focused – the None of this comes at the expense of the design and decor,
PHOTOGRAPH INHABITHOTELS.COM

ethos at Inhabit in London’s Paddington is one that however. Its calming, pared-back bedrooms are a Scandi-British
we could all benefit from and there are elements blend of neutral tones, bleached wood and come-touch-me natural
that are well worth bringing into our homes to textures – and it’s the same vibe in the beautiful library, with its sea
sustain us all the time, not just when we’re away. The first of soothing blue hues. In addition, this noise-free zone is filled with
opening in a fledgling brand of hotels, the focus here is on a literary classics, art and design books and thought-provoking reads
holistic living concept: there’s a mindfulness library, food is to lose yourself in, all neatly interspersed with elegant objects.
healthy and no single-use plastics are used on site. The idea Now that’s something we can all emulate at home. If dedicating
being that guests leave nourished, rested and restored. an entire room to a library isn’t feasible, carving out a quiet
Most impressive is the hotel’s air monitoring system, which reading corner as a place to unwind has huge appeal. Sink-into
records toxicity and filters out 95 per cent of pollution – the seating, calming colours and low-level lighting are a must.
ambition being to offer the cleanest air of all the capital’s hotels. The meaty tomes and nourishing snacks, we’ll leave to you.

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