L I V E T H E L I F E . . .

L O V E T H E S T Y L E

& INTERIORS

F
R STIC CO
OOD RA V N & N ORS NS
OR S A ON

PLAN YOUR
DREAM HOME
L-SHAPES, GALLEYS,

Simple
DINERS & ISLANDS: HOW
TO DESIGN YOUR KITCHEN

PICK THE BEST EXTENSION STORAGE TIPS

FOR YOUR PROPERTY FOR A CLEAR,
BEAUTIFUL BATHS CALM SPACE
& BOOKCASES

WARMING
RECIPES
FOR COSY
SUPPERS

Life in the
❖ THATCHED COTTAGE RESTORATION ❖ ECLECTIC BARN CONVERSION
❖ VINTAGE COTSWOLD HIDEAWAY ❖ ANTIQUE-FILLED APARTMENT
THE HOME OF
modern country
February 2021

INTERIORS &
INSPIRATION
12 FEBRUARY Things that make
us happy
17 DESIGN NEWS
What’s new in interiors this month
76 GLOWING EMBERS
Embrace vivid winter shades
81 A HOME IN HARMONY
A refined and simple scheme to
sooth the senses
88 • MAKE A HOUSE A HOME
Keep your home organised
94 • KITCHEN IDEAS
Configure your kitchen space
102 • JOIN THE BOOK CLUB
Handsome shelving to swoon over
106 • ROOM ELEMENTS
Clever materials for brilliant baths
110 HOME TECH
Buy the right home air purifier
111 KITCHEN PROJECT

18 A rich colour scheme and bespoke

breakfast table are the stars here
124 RENOVATION GUIDE
Practical info on extensions >
COUNTRY HOMES
18 • SWEDISH APARTMENT
This couple uncovered original
features and added vintage pieces
to give their home character
28 • OXFORDSHIRE COTTAGE
A chance encounter led to the
renovation of this charming
thatched former village Post Office

128 40 • DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

This rustic country home was passed
down through the family, with a
• ON THE COVER strong connection to nature
50 • OXFORDSHIRE COTTAGE
The success of this Cotswolds
conversion persuaded its new
owner not to change anything
PLUS GET-THE-LOOK
IDEAS FOR EVERY HOME 68
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 5
 GARDENS
128 FIRE & FROST
Red and gold stems contrast
beautifully against frosty
snowdrops in this cottage garden

JUST FOR YOU

59 HOMES SURVEY Take our
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£100-worth of Amazon vouchers
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HOMES & INTERIORS

SUBSCRIBE

116 81 T O D AY

SEASONAL FOOD
116 • WHOLESOME, HEARTY
& HOME-GROWN
Satisfying dishes for winter
123 IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN
Our latest pantry additions

LIFESTYLE Subscribe to Country Homes

76
& Interiors today, from only
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A few reasons why we’d Terms & conditions apply.
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• ON THE COVER 63 • LOCAL HERO
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6 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

A different perspective
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Because good design never grows old.

Book an appointment to chat to one of our friendly designers – on us.

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Make your home your own.
 EDITOR’S LETTER

T
here’s a new (calm, cluttered, or
broom, dusting somewhere in between)
off the cobwebs is a home that makes you
feeling to February, which feel content and at ease.
is why I’ve been on a If you’re looking for a little
mission to clear my kitchen surfaces motivation, turn to our Everything
and organise my filing (the cupboard in its Place feature on page 88.
under the stairs will have to wait). Of With all the time we’ve spent within
course, the end result of any clearout our own four walls recently, you
is more than a tidy space a home may have decided that more drastic
that’s arranged just as you want it action is needed to help you fall in
love with your home again. Whether
it’s reconfiguring your kitchen (see
page 94), planning an extension
(page 124) or plotting a move
to a rural hotspot (page 61),
we’ve packed our pages with
advice and inspiration.
FILL IN OUR
Wishing you a home HOMES SURVEY
that’s filled with love AND YOU COULD WIN
£100 OF AMAZON
and happiness.
PHOTOGRAPH (PORTRAIT) HOLLY STONE; (ST BRIDES) ALAMY MAKE-UP CARA MCDANIEL

VOUCHERS. GO TO
IDEALHOME.CO.UK/
Valentine’s Day vibes!
St Brides, where I was
married 28 years ago
Andréa x COUNTRYHOMES
SURVEY2021

I’m,,, feeling the love

Self-gifting with My husband and My courtyard
a bag featuring I bought rings garden needs
native flora and like this from a some tender
fauna; it comes brilliant and loving care and
with wildflower sustainable this book is full
seeds, too! jewellery brand of inspiration.
Bee Garden to celebrate our Kinfolk Garden:
clutch, Will anniversary. How to Live with
Bees Bespoke Completedworks Nature (Artisan)

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 11

 Things that make us happy...
FEBRUARY

Looking outwards and

upwards to the budding
promise of spring.
Chawton double-width
sideboard in Olive,
£2,884, Neptune

12 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 C O U N T R Y D AY S

2 Venturing
from fireside
to fresh air in
ever-fashionable
knitwear and
denim combos.
Cable cardigan
in Green Ochre,
£98, Celtic & Co

4
1

1 Giving verdant additions a leg-up in growth spurt heights.

Sydney plant stand, from £70, Anthropologie 2 Crisp, but
exceptionally soft, table attire with a wonderfully whimsical
feel. Ruffle Irish linen napkin in Olive, £24, Rebecca Udall
3 Recycled new nesting for feathery friends. Barn bird
house, £18.95, Jolt 4 Lingering warmth with fizzy and
fresh, spicy citrus scents. Wilful tonic candle, £65, 7 Over 7

6
5

8
Serving up lots of love 5 Traditional block prints elevated with raspberry-coloured
on Valentine’s Day… flower petals and emerald-hued foliage. Tullio cotton cushion
Julietta rattan dining table, cover, €45, Caravane 6 Adding characterful pattern underfoot
£199; chair, £135; runner, with a contemporary heirloom. Katrina rug, £125, French
£22.90; stoneware, Connection Home 7 Words that make the world of difference.
from £6.30 a piece, The stars aligned letterpress Valentine’s card, £3.75, Hunt &
all Bloomingville Gather 8 Organic shapes and matt textured finishes for the
breakfast table. Savona ceramic mug, £8, Habitat

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 13

 Beautiful layers of
snuggly softness.
British birds special
edition lambswool
blankets in Robin,
10
Woodpigeon, Kingfisher,
Grey Wagtail, Blue Tit,
£95 each, The British
Blanket Company
9

11
12
9 A smart server for elevenses in the home office. Mono
cotton rope tray, £35, Knotsy at Room 365 10 Embracing
classic designs in petite proportions and new directions.
Type 75 mini table lamp in Black, £99, Anglepoise 11 Scandi
style simplicity with a woven and slender iron frame
contrast. Wicker bench, £395, Cox & Cox 12 The perfect
partner in crime for gin and tonic prep. Mini square
board, £17, Rosie Brewer at Reste

13

14

15
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHS (CORNISH

16
BED COMPANY) JOHN DAY PHOTOGRAPHY

13 A wilderness pamper journey with freedom to roam Delighting in dreamy

fragrances. Kapitel 12 eau de toilette, £45, Skandinavisk at nights forever with
Selfridges 14 Beautifully unique Moroccan tableware with stately proportions
a story to share. Tamegroute small bowls in Yellow, £15 each, and time-celebrated
We Are Nomads 15 Colourful flourishes and textural touches craftsmanship.
that last an eternity. Bunnytail dried flowers in Purple, £11.95, Clifton four-poster, £1,550,
Graham and Green 16 Shapely handwoven, decorative Cornish Bed Company
additions. Buhera baskets, from £80 each, Hadeda

14 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 C O U N T R Y D AY S

Things that make us happy...

❝ ROMANCING THE SEASON
WITH EARLY SUNSETS AND
BIGGER-THE-BETTER JUMPERS
❞

Adding a cute touch

with bright sparks of
handmade gorgeousness.
Dillie stoneware match
striker, £18, Nordic House

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 15

A Staircase Renovation
From Neville Johnson Can
Really Make an Entrance
The Neville Johnson Sale* means renovating your staircase into
an exquisite feature is much easier and less costly than you’d
imagine. In just 1-2 days and with no building work, we will
transform the heart of your home, and add value to your property
with a stunning, handcrafted staircase. All in a style to suit you
and your budget.

Minimum order value £2,000 +VAT. Finance is subject to status, terms apply.
*Sale discount applies to orders placed between 10/12/20 and 01/03/21.

for our latest brochure

nevillejohnson.co.uk | 0161 873 8333
 NEW & INTERESTING

DESIGN NEWS
BrintonÕs debut rugs
Heritage carpet manufacturer Brintons has
rolled out its first rug collection, Agnella,
inspired by the natural beauty of wool. Each
rug is designed and made by skilled crafts-
people using the latest in weaving technology.
Many of the designs leave the loom in undyed
woolly glory to celebrate the raw material’s
palette and authenticity. Diamond Aiko in
Heather, from £163; Noble Altro in Light
Grey (right), from £91.
Shop the full collection
at brintons.co.uk.

Curtains in Hollyhocks,
DREAMY NEW BEDS £79m; sofa in Helena,
£34m; wallpaper in Pinjara
One of our favourite indie companies, Graham Trellis, £59 a roll; floral sofa
and Green, has pulled back the duvet on two cushion in Rose & Peony,
gorgeous new bed designs. Choose from the £65m, all Sanderson at
French-style Luna or the brass-studded Alora, John Lewis & Partners
both handcrafted from ash wood and lovingly
upholstered in a
sumptuous
luxurious grey
EXCLUSIVE SANDERSON
velvet or pared- AT JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS
back natural linen.
Time to get cosy! Sanderson is giving a sneak peak of its One Sixty
Luna king-size anniversary collection at John Lewis & Partners.
bed in Grey
velvet, £995,
Taking inspiration from fabrics hand-picked by
Graham and Sanderson’s design experts, there are five new looks
Green. to explore: A Celebration of Colour; Romantic
Rural; Reworked Retro; Contemporary Country
and Crisp Country; see more online or in store.
Tunes for homes
with character!
Beloved British audio brand Roberts One to watch:
Radio has unveiled its first Bluetooth Samantha Rudd
speaker, the Beacon, blending retro Samantha Rudd (the talented designer
behind the Sam Wilson brand) has
design with the latest tech for opened an interior lifestyle shop,
effortless wireless connection. From At Home With The Rudds, in Broadway,
£149; available at the beautiful Cotswold hotspot.
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

Visit athomewiththerudds.com or
RobertsRadio. pop by in person to take your pick
com, John Lewis from an eclectic mix of home
accessories, antiques and original
& Partners and designs, like Sarah’s new Carousel
Amazon.co.uk. printed linen, £55m.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 17

 LIFE IN
THE EAVES
Sam Nixon and her husband Grant Snowden have
uncovered the original features of this period apartment
and filled it with antiques to create a characterful home

Dining area
Sam and Grant bought Wait,
by Anne Siems, online from a
New York gallery. The artwork
complements the raw timber
textures throughout the home.
For similar paint, try School
House White, Farrow & Ball
 S W E D I S H A PA R T M E N T

Kitchen-diner
Tiles and the large island
delineate the kitchen space.
Rustic elements and more
contemporary industrial
touches balance the scheme.
Table, St-Paul Home. Brushed
LIX chair, source at Sklum

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 19

Kitchen area
The lack of upper cabinets is
compensated for by shelves
on castors, which have
an informal and practical
appearance. Vintage shoe
trolleys, Metroretro. Smeg
fridge, John Lewis & Partners.
Cube Grey porcelain floor
tiles, Total Tiles, are similar
 S W E D I S H A PA R T M E N T

A three-month work contract is what originally brought

Sam Nixon and her husband Grant Snowden to
Malmö, Sweden’s third largest city. Almost 20 years
later, the couple, along with their two daughters, are
still settled there, having left their globetrotting life behind them.
‘We had travelled from Australia to South America, but we were
living in Texas when we decided that we wanted to live in Europe
for a while. Then Sam was offered a contract here in Malmö,
so our coming here was mostly coincidental,’ says Grant.
The spacious apartment in an 1870s building in the city’s historic
Gamla Väster district was a rare find. ‘We were incredibly lucky to
get the opportunity to purchase this apartment, split across two
floors. The attic was in really bad condition, but we saw it as a fun,
challenging project,’ says Sam. ‘We thought the actual building was
wonderful and it had a charming cosy patio, too.’ The property was
originally two separate apartments and behind layers of poor 1980s
updates, the pair noticed old beams, chimneys and exposed brick
walls. After a nine-month renovation, they ended up with their dream
AT HOM E WI T H
home in the attic and later sold the apartment on the floor below.
Both Sam and Grant became so obsessed with vintage furniture
that for a few years they sold the pieces they couldn’t fit into the Owners Sam Nixon,
a computer programmer,
apartment in a shop. ‘We are crazy about vintage, natural colours
and her husband Grant Snowden,
and materials like linen, zinc, wood and brick. I believe that if we are a former corporate banker, along
both passionate about an item – whether it is a piece of furniture, with their daughters Charlie, 14,
a painting or a lamp – then it will work perfectly with the rest of our and Nora, 10, plus cats Cinnamon,
things. That’s turned out to be true in most situations,’ says Sam. Rosie and Coco.
The kitchen, which was previously a bedroom, has been created House A renovated
three-bedroom apartment in a
from scratch. ‘I wanted to use a combination of materials that
19th-century building, located in
would give the impression it had been here for many years. the Gamla Väster district of
I love leaving the utensils and pots out. It evokes a warm country- Malmö, Sweden.
kitchen feeling,’ says Sam. Tiles delineate the practical space
of the kitchen, with the large central island the ideal place to
prepare food. The lack of wall cabinets contributes to the sense
of openness while allowing the natural character of the bricks
to resonate with the old wooden beams. ‘We had to search for
a long time before we were able to find someone who was able
to raise the ceiling and expose the beams,’ she says.
‘Sam often rearranges our favourite possessions in different
combinations to give each room a new and changing identity.
We have so many pieces of art and vintage furniture that we
could never have them all on display at the same time. It can take
ages working out the best place for each piece,’ says Grant.
The apartment has plenty of clever storage ideas, too. ‘Practicality
is important. In Sweden, we spend so much time indoors that it’s
essential for a home not to feel cluttered and to know where
everything you need is. We’ve always wanted our home to feel
tidy and well organised, even with all our favourite vintage
finds and mementoes out on display,’ says Sam. ‘There’s always
something going on with plenty of friends dropping by,’ adds
Grant. ‘Creating a home with a warm, open and welcoming
atmosphere was always the most important thing for us.’

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 21

S W E D I S H A PA R T M E N T

Living area
Open shelves make a feature of
the magazines with an off-centre
mirror and plants bringing character
to the arrangement. A ladder leads
to a play area. Large doorways
give the apartment a sense of
openness and flow. Source antique
leather club chairs, Vinterior.
Industrial Light 5 Shelf bookcase,
Woods Furniture, is similar.
Pure white industrial pendant light,
Elesi, would work here. The picture
wall is made up of memories.
Nora’s bedroom
A mosquito net brings a whimsical
touch to this scheme where the
bed is the star. Source mosquito
net canopy, Manufactum. Buy
similar angle lamp, Switch Lighting.
Find a comparable antique
Swedish folk bed, Pamono

22 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

❝
❞

Living area
The seating arrangement
places a strong emphasis on
family connection. The covers
of the sofa can be easily
taken off and washed. Ghost
12 sofa, Gervasoni, available
at Masoni Online. Source
vintage 1930s mirror with
bevelled edges, Vinterior
S W E D I S H A PA R T M E N T

Main bedroom
Rich texture and aged materials
create a cosy feel. The distressed
paint of an antique cupboard pairs
well with the rumpled imperfection
of the bedding. Linen bedding,
H&M Home. ‘Zettel’z 6’ light by Ingo
Maurer, Lights.co.uk. Vintage Singer
factory stool, Metroretro
Bathroom
A claw-foot bath and off-white tiles
create a vintage feel. Source similar
bath at Aston Matthews. Wall tiles,
Mosa Global Collection. Floor tiles,
Mosaic del Sur, Mosaic Factory.
Kensington basin and pedestal,
Fired Earth. A sliding oak door
chimes in with the exposed beams.
Taylor black metal triple mirror,
Maisons du Monde, is similar. High
level cistern loo, Twyford Bathrooms

FEATURE KATARINA MATSSON/HOUSE OF PICTURES STYLING HANS BLOMQUIST/

HOUSE OF PICTURES PHOTOGRAPHS ANDREA PAPINI/HOUSE OF PICTURES

24 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 ON OUR
D O OR ST EP

Visit… ‘A trip to Falsterbo and

Skanör are a must, only half an hour
from Malmö. Beautiful beaches, pretty
beach huts and charming houses.’
Shop at… ‘Our favourite store
in Malmö is Miloii (miloii.se), with
a wonderful selection of Danish,
Swedish and French clothes, as well
as a small, but beautifully curated
selection of homeware.’
Go for a meal at… ‘Malmö
Saluhall has great restaurants, as
well as a bakery, fishmongers, a
butcher and a farm shop. Solde
Kaffebar (solde.se) has the best
coffee in Malmö, with beans roasted
at their own roastery in the city.’

Main bedroom
Sam left windows free from
dressings to allow in as
much light as possible. Linen
bedding strikes a laid-back,
restful note. Linen bedding
from H&M Home. ‘Zettel’z 6’
light by Ingo Maurer available
at Lights.co.uk. Source similar
bedside table at Maisons du
Monde. Source antique plan
chest at 1stDibs or Vinterior.
GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by
SAM’S KITCHEN
Shine the light
with a piece
of British
industrial
history.
Coolicon the
original 1933
Give floors a
in Sky Blue,
contemporary
£200, Loaf
update with
a striking
geometric twist.
Cubist tiles in Grey,
£235.20sq m,
Wheel in vintage-meets- Bert & May
industrial charm with this
distressed-effect server.
Botania metal wheeled
trolley in Green, £93.50,
Maisons du Monde

Pour all the

more with this
minimalist,
CH&I Nordic-inspired
helper.
MODERN £28.95, Monday
Country
CLASSIC

Hang grab-and-
cook essentials
within easy lemon
squeezy reach.
Rack with six S-hooks
Time flies with in Black, £20.99, lb
a tick-tock of Laursen at Fine
mid-century, railway Nordic
station nostalgia. Keep chilled
Luggage wall clock, goods fresh while
£59.95, Newgate at revamping a fabulous
Annabel James 50s atmosphere.
Retro fridge 150 gold

Sam’s in Cream, £656.95,

Create Ikohs

style tip...
BLEND INDUSTRIAL
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

AND RUSTIC FARMHOUSE Study every species in

detail in advance of
INFLUENCES FOR A RELAXED, foraging adventures!

LIVED-IN STYLE FULL OF Mushroom botanical

vintage wall chart, from
WELCOMING CHARM £3.77, WallBuddy at Etsy.

26 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 Sleep easy with the
UK’s most trusted
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 I ST C ASS
The sensitive restoration of a former village
post office has delivered a new life in the
country for Bee Osborn

Exterior
Bee has spent considerable
time restoring the gardens
surrounding the pretty
thatched cottage. The
pleached hornbeam trees
from Burford Garden
Company add an elegant
screen to the garden in
the summer months
and in winter lend a
sculptural appeal
O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 29

 Living room
The low-ceilinged
entertaining space has a
cosy cottage charm. Walls
painted in Sheringham
Beach by Fenwick &
Tilbrook. Sofas, side tables
and pouffes, all Studio
Osborn. Mirror, Station Mill

B ee Osborn has carved out a successful

career designing beautiful interiors with her
award-winning, internationally acclaimed
firm, Osborn Interiors. For her, home is a
place in which you should feel nurtured and relaxed.
‘Life is hectic and it is important to create personal
spaces that enable you to unwind,’ she says.
Located in the Cotswolds, Bee’s thatched stone
cottage dates back to the 1530s. Combining classic
detailing with a modern country aesthetic, the interior
is a beautiful mix of traditional and contemporary: think
a chalky palette, original stone walls, panelling,
elegantly styled furniture and occasional dark tones,
AT HOME WITH adding a subtle change of pace and drama.
‘I had been looking for an out-of-London rental in
Owners Bee Osborn, 2017 as my youngest daughter was starting school in
an interior designer, lives here the Cotswolds. We were living in a townhouse in
with her daughter Lara, 14. Battersea and I had hoped to find a bolthole to be near
Grown up daughters Tatiana and to Lara during the week,’ says Bee.
Hettie visit at weekends.
Bee knew the Cotswolds well but despite endless
House A three-bedroom,
searching, had found nothing suitable or affordable to
North Cotswold stone cottage.
Formerly the village post office, rent. On a final drive back to London, she stopped to
it dates back to 1530, with an buy a sandwich. ‘Next to the village shop, I spotted a
original barn structure at the for sale sign in the undergrowth and was immediately
back, built in 1700. drawn to the cottage,’ says Bee. Within 10 minutes, an
offer had been accepted and three weeks later the keys >

30 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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

❝ EVERYTHING HAS A STORY AND A MEANING –

FOR ME, THAT’S WHAT MAKES A HOME ❞

Living room
The inglenook fireplace
with its wood burner
creates a welcoming focal
point. Wood burner,
Clearview Stoves.
Trays, Studio Osborn.
Lanterns, similar at
Daylesford. Cushions, all
Studio Osborn
O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

Kitchen
The lofty space, clad in
reclaimed wood, provides
the perfect frame for the
rustic Barn Sawn kitchen,
designed by Studio
Osborn. Quartz worktops,
flooring and wall cladding,
Studio Osborn. Range,
Everhot. Stools, Neptune.
Island pendant lights, Pinch
Kitchen
A collection of artisanal
plates, glassware and
cannisters have been
sourced from Daylesford.
White bowl, Studio
Osborn. Tap, Crosswater

Dining area
The bespoke oak and resin
table, designed by Bee,
adds a sense of timeless
craftsmanship and is offset
by the handmade oversized
light from Hadeda, both
Studio Osborn. Steel doors,
Cotswold Casements

were hers. ‘It reminded me of my childhood home and

that resonated,’ she says. Fast forward three years and
country life has taken hold – the cottage is now Bee’s
main home and her Battersea design team has
relocated to a charming three-storey townhouse in
nearby Chipping Norton.
The original two-up two-down cottage was tired and
in need of renovation, but benefited from a large stone
barn at the back of the property where the Post Office
delivery horses would have been kept. ‘I stood in the
barn, with its leaking corrugated roof and imagined
how it could connect to the cottage. I wanted to keep
the integrity and authenticity of the original stone walls,
yet bring the structure into the 21st century with large
steel windows and doors,’ says Bee.
The renovation began in earnest in March 2020. With
lockdown, Bee and her girls lived in the cottage, with a
makeshift kitchen and beds in the living room. Taking
just six months to complete, the barn links seamlessly
to the cottage via a series of steps down to a stylish
bespoke kitchen and up to a family snug area, formerly
the original kitchen. Clad in reclaimed wood from an View to snug
Distressed distemper walls add a rustic
old schoolhouse, the lofty proportions have a timeless
ambience to the kitchen that leads up to the
beauty that juxtapose sympathetically with the original family snug. Built in sofas, upholstery and
low beams. ‘The extension has such extraordinary cushions, all Studio Osborn. Pouffe,
proportions,‘ says Bee. ‘They add a contemporary > The White Company

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 33

Living room
The two reception
rooms at the front of the
cottage provide valuable
entertaining space for the
family. The juxtaposition of
light with dark adds stylish
contrast. Wall light, similar
at John Lewis & Partners.
Flooring, Studio Osborn
 O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

❝ I LIKE TO CREATE STATEMENT ART WALLS

WITH COLLECTIONS OF MIRRORS, BASKETS
AND HATS – INEXPENSIVE BUT IMPACTFUL
❞

Family room
The original time-worn
windowsill was built at the
exact height for the Post Office
horses to step up and have
their saddle bags loaded with
post. Wall colour, Sea Henge
by Fenwick & Tilbrook. Mirrors,
similar at John Lewis & Partners.
Curtains, sofa, chair and
cushions, all Studio Osborn
 Guest bedroom Main bedroom
The dramatic, four metre The mirrored back wall
high vaulted space has enables light to bounce
been whitewashed with around the space. Mirrored
Sheringham Beach by wall and headboard,
Fenwick & Tilbrook. Artwork both Studio Osborn.
above the fireplace, Lamp, Loaf. Throw, The
sourced by Art Untamed. White Company
Throws, Zara and Helen
Moore. Cushions, West Elm

elegance and it has become a wonderful space in

ON OUR DOORSTEP… which to entertain family and friends.’
As part of the renovation, a new downstairs boot room
was created that adjoins a utility and shower room via a
Visit…’The Burford Antique Centre
sliding barn door. Upstairs, it has enabled an en-suite
(burfordantiquecentre.co.uk) located
in the stunning Cotswold town of bathroom to link to the main bedroom. Both clad in
Burford. I adore walking up and down reclaimed wood, the modern-rustic main suite has added
the pretty high street, dipping in a touch of boutique hotel-style glamour. Storage has
and out of the antiques shops and been carefully planned and every nook has been used
abundant independent stores.’
with bespoke cabinetry, furniture and shelving.
Shop at… ‘The Oxford Brush Throughout, Bee’s love of art, symmetry and statement
Company (oxfordbrushcompany.com)
in Burford. They supply artisanal,
collections highlight her passion. ‘Everything has a story
handcrafted brushes and brooms, and meaning – for me that makes a home,’ says Bee.
which are both functional and beautiful; Despite Bee’s high-profile reputation, her self-funded
plus many other household goods.’ success is down to hard work and a need to support
FEATURE ALI HEATH PHOTOGRAPHS BRENT DARBY

Go for a meal at...’The Bell her family. With a working career that began as a
(thebelllangford.com) in Langford is secretary, Bee began renovating houses in her 20s,
in a modern country setting and a
with a 100 per cent mortgage on a derelict building in
firm favourite for a relaxed pub lunch.
Owned by locals, Peter Creed and Tooting. This was the start of repeated projects and 15
Tom Noest, they combine classic years ago, with her third child having just turned one,
British food with wood-fired dishes she decided to retrain formally as an interior designer
and great wines.’ with Inchbald School of Design. The rest is history. ‘I
believe in dreaming big. If you have both the need
and passion, it can lead to great things.’
To find out more visit studio-osborn.com or
Instagram @osborninteriors

36 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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

Main en-suite
Reclaimed wood cladding
adds a Scandinavian feel
to the luxurious space.
The stainless steel bath
was bought second-hand,
but can be bought from
BC Designs. Tapware,
Crosswater. Petrified oak
stool, Studio Osborn. Wall
lights, Porta Romana
GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by
BEE’S BEDROOM

CH&I
MODERN
Country
CLASSIC

Add a tactile touch of luxe

with a subtle metallic sheen.
Essentials cable knit cushion
in Grey/Silver, £35, Amara

Opt for airy elegance with a

glass and natural shade
combination.
Gloucester table lamp, £38,
Next Home Warm the atmosphere
while providing a soft
pathway underfoot.
Rainbow wool carpet in
White, £253, Linie Design
Channel Scandi style at Nordic Nest
with this distressed and
faded design.
Wood panelling
wallpaper, £19.99,
Albany at
Wallpaper Direct

Waft a stress-busting
breeze of fruity notes Contemporary grains
Wake up the
and zesty undertones. translate into
decorative details
Lime, basil and mandarin mesmerising graphic
with a stem of
scented candle, from patterning on this facade.
pretty petals.
£20, Roots Norrebro bedside table,
Frosty giant
£199, Swoon
dandelion, £5.99,

Bee’s style tip... Sophie Allport

CREATE A BEAUTIFUL YET Drift-off in a

COMFORT-BOOSTING FOCAL waffled web of
Italian hotel-
POINT WITH A TAILORED, inspired chic.
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

EXAGGERATED HEADBOARD Portofino bed linen

in White, from
UPHOLSTERED IN A SOFT- £16.20, Dusk
TO-TOUCH, EFFORTLESS
NEUTRAL.
38 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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 RH SODY
NB U
Timeworn accessories, grainy woods and
natural materials create a unique ambience
in Anneke Herbers’ atmospheric home

Living room
Dark coloured chalk paint
walls evoke a moody-
hued backdrop. A striking
statue and artwork draws
the eye. For similar floor
lamp, try eBay. Tub chair,
Wayfair has similar
 DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

Living room
Linen fabrics, raw wood
furniture and woven
baskets add textural
interest. Sofa, coffee
table and accessories,
Herbers Lifestyle. Similar
global homeware can be
sourced from India Jane

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 41

DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

Kitchen-diner
Anneke reused old kitchen
cabinets in the new space.
Other items were sourced
from reclamation yards, local
markets and brocante stores,
many of them in Bruges.
For similar accessories and
units, try The Packhouse,
Lassco and Home Barn

❝
❞
Dining area
Anneke has created an
eye-catching scheme
with dramatic pendant
lights positioned above
the simple wooden
table and chairs. Chairs,
Aura Peeperkorn;
table and lighting,
all Herbers Lifestyle

F or Anneke Herbers, it was a case of keeping

it in the family when it came to the country
house she now lives in – it originally
belonged to her parents. ‘At first the house
was a base for my father and my daughter Marjon to
keep and breed horses in the paddocks and stables at
the rear of the property,’ she explains. Then in 2000, as
her father grew older, he invited Marjon to take over
the house, so she could continue working with the
horses. Eventually Anneke and her late husband
Gerhard also moved in to help and be near the family.
Moving into the house helped Anneke establish
her interior style. ’The décor was very different in
those days to what it is now,’ she explains. The exterior
of the property has a rustic, cabin-like feel about it, yet
inside it the walls were decorated with old-fashioned AT HOME WITH
plaster and there were lots of inherited pieces that
were tricky to work with. Anneke went back to basics Owner Anneke Herbers,
and started afresh, while being mindful of how her who runs homeware shop
Herbers Lifestyle
parents had lived and used their home.
(herberslifestyle.nl/en),
‘Key to my look is my love of country style,’ says moved into her parents’
Anneke. ‘I‘m drawn to down-to-earth and unassuming family home in 2008.
pieces.’ The furniture and accessories she has carefully House Two-bedroom cabin.
curated sit harmoniously together in the cabin, set
against glorious views of the pastures and paddocks
beyond. The look feels authentic to the surroundings, >

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 43

 Kitchen
Anneke kept the
original floor and added
handmade oak units.
Similar splashback tiles,
Topps Tiles. For similar
wall paint, try Graphite,
Annie Sloan

and the connection with nature can be seen in

Anneke’s choice of materials used across the walls,
floors and furnishings. The house radiates texture,
from chalky tactile paints and hand-plastered finishes
on the walls, to warm grainy woods, etched marble
details and soft, scrunched linens.
A passion for Belgian interiors also plays a part in the
look Anneke has created for her home. ‘I’ve always
been an admirer of this classic style,’ she explains.
‘It is a blend of craftsmanship, handsome, oversized
furniture and an honest handmade quality.’ The
style throughout is both refined and elegant, but
effortlessly relaxing and timeworn in equal measures.
Anneke was keen to design sociable yet cosy spaces
for friends and family to gather in, and this led to
an open-plan design with a carefully co-ordinated,
cohesive feel. The same colours and textures are
used throughout to help the flow, with different zones
divided up by specially chosen furniture. In keeping
with Anneke’s style, most are large in scale and
instantly delineate the main function of each area.
She has chosen to decorate using a natural palette
that‘s inspired by the surrounding landscape and the
inherent colours of the materials used to build her
home – clay, sun-baked reeds and hewn timber beams.
‘I used the odd tonal trace, like the dark spruce velvet >

44 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

Entertaining
space
Anneke converted an old
garage into a party and
entertaining space.
Table and seating,
Herbers Lifestyle.
Sheepskins, for similar
try Nordic House.
DUTCH WOODEN CABIN

❝ I LOVE BELGIAN STYLE.

IT’S CLASSIC, ELEGANT YET
BEAUTIFULLY SIMPLE, TOO❞

Main bedroom
The Scandinavian-style
scheme incorporates raw
woods and a white palette.
For similar bedlinen, try
LinenMe. For a similar
lamp, try Oka. For similar
furniture, Homebarn
has a good selection
 Washroom
The Moroccan tadelakt
plaster finish on the lower
half of the walls was done
by Anneke. A counter-top
basin carved from stone
was bought at a brocante
store. Wall paint, for similar
try Old White, Farrow &
Ball. Waffle towel, Nordic
House, is comparable

Hallway
Anneke removed the stain
and paint from the staircase
herself, and kept the original
floor tiles. For a similar
console, try The Packhouse.
Wall paint, for similar try
Chicago Grey, Annie Sloan

and a plaster pink linen fabric on the two living room

sofas,’ she says. ’And I love the mossy greenery of
understated arrangements of seasonal flowers and
foliage, which I’ve placed in pots and planters.’ ON MY DOORSTEP
There is low-key pattern – seen in embroidery details,
tiles and antique carving – which evokes a calm and Visit… ‘The stunning fortress
serene feel. Lamps and lighting are kept to a minimum. of Bourtange (bourtange.nl).
And, as is frequently seen in North European homes, A village and landscaped gardens
candles are dotted throughout the space, lit to add are contained within its star-shaped
ambience, homeliness and warmth as and when needed. setting. It’s beautiful all year round,
but its topiary is especially impressive
This home features many unique touches and in the winter months.’
details, from the mixing of chalk paint colours to the
Shop at… ‘Folkingestraat in
updated and upcycled finds, including a beautiful Groningen. Proclaimed as the best
FEATURE AND STYLING SARA BIRD/THE CONTENTED NEST

wrought-iron gate that was personalised by Gerhard. shopping street in the Netherlands,
PHOTOGRAPHS DAN DUCHARS/THE CONTENTED NEST

The house is also filled with artisan-crafted, handmade it features specialist shops including
and imperfect pieces, each with its own story behind vintage wares, gifts and souvenirs.’
how it was made, recycled and created. Go for a meal at…
‘Hotel Boschhuis (hotelboschhuis.nl),
‘I hope my home is a successful marriage of authentic
known locally for its delicious
styling, natural character and of-the-landscape seasonal Dutch menus.’
colours,’ says Anneke. ‘More than just welcoming,
I wanted to make a warm and
open-hearted home that will age
and mellow with grace and poise.’
Taken from Home for the Soul, by Sara
Bird and Dan Duchars of the Contented
Nest, £19.99, Ryland Peters & Small

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 47

GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by
ANNEKE’S DINING ROOM
Simplicity and elegance
blend to dazzle
effortlessly from above.
This extra-generous Beth chandelier,
paddle is perfect for £99, M&S
sharing platters,
mezze and canapés.
Lynton large wooden
serving board, £67.75,
OnlyHome.co.uk

Fill a timelessly
classic
silhouette with
voluminous
textures.
Ribbed glass Choose a soft black for
vase in Grey moody moments.
with preserved Chalk paint in Graphite,
fluffy reed grass £21.95 for 1ltr,
bouquet, Annie Sloan
£108.99,
Dowsing &
Reynolds

CH&I
MODERN
Country
CLASSIC Wind up the vintage
style to dining or
bar table heights!
Adjustable height
teak dining table,
£1,845, Smithers
of Stamford
Group differing
designs and

AnnekeÕs style tip...

heights to cast a
Give bites dramatic glow.
or objets a Lotus candle
decorative
stage. BROODING SHADES Drape this softie
holder, £70, Oka

Two-tier
appetiser
CONTRAST WITH over a rustic bench
for hunker-down
serving dome, EXPOSED FINISHES ON appeal.
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

£39.99, Artesà at
Kitchen Craft
WALLS, UNITED BY A Auckland luxury faux
sheepskin, from
RUSTIC CEILING FOR £54.99, Asiatic
A RAW AND HONEST at Rugs Direct

AESTHETIC
48 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
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 Living room
Ann has complemented the
honey-coloured exposed
Cotswold stone walls with
the cosy tones of an
antique walnut leather sofa
and a vintage wooden
coffee table. Coffee table,
Peppermill Interiors. Sofa
and chair, PR Home

VIN G VIB
Ann Jarvis wanted to buy and renovate a country
cottage as a family retreat... but that was before she
fell for the existing design of this Cotswold conversion

50 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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

Hallway
This practical raw wood
Exterior cupboard is used for
Ann was surprised to fall storing household
for a cottage so different essentials, as well as a
from her usual style tumble dryer

W hen Ann Jarvis decided to look for a

weekend retreat in the country for
herself and her family, she had
definite ideas in mind. ‘I was looking
for somewhere I could decorate myself and where I
could recycle some of the excess furniture we seemed
to have accumulated in our numerous moves,’ she says.
Thanks to the demands of her husband Mick’s job, the
couple had spent several years living in various
American states before finally settling in Berkshire.
Their search for a second home took them to the
gentle hills and honey-stone villages of the Cotswolds,
where they pounced on a small stable conversion,
called The Skirret (which, depending on your sources,
AT HOME WITH is either the name of an obscure vegetable or an
archaic building tool). ‘It was detached and in a super
Owners Ann Jarvis, a retired location near Stow-on-the-Wold,’ says Ann. ‘It had also
interior decorator, and her husband, been beautifully transformed by its previous owner.
Mick, a retired oil executive, live here. Although I didn’t intend to buy an “up and running”
They have three grown-up children house, The Skirret was too good to pass up. And as
and bought the house in 2019.
Mick hates decorating mess, he was delighted that
House A two-bedroom,
there was virtually nothing to do!’
single-storey cottage, originally
a stable, parts of which date back Ann had once worked under the tutelage of ‘Paint
to the 1800s. Magic’ guru, the late Jocasta Innes, and had developed
her own interiors style, which she describes as ‘chintzy‘.
So to buy into a style that’s rustic/vintage, with exposed
stone walls, industrial furnishings and muted colours, >

52 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 ❝ THE PREVIOUS OWNER DID A GREAT JOB TRANSFORMING
THE COTTAGE. THE PAINT COLOURS ARE RICH AND DEEP, AND
HE EVEN COMMISSIONED BEAUTIFUL ROMAN BLINDS❞

Living room
A restful green feature
wall injects colour and ties
in with the blind fabric.
The wood-burning stove
provides a warming focal
point. Wall colour, Harley
Green by Little Greene.
Blind fabric, A Leaf Study
Linen by John Derian for
Designers Guild
 Kitchen
Reclaimed wood creates a
rustic backdrop and tones
beautifully with the island
unit and cooker hood and,
alongside industrial storage
and lighting, emphasises
the vintage look. Bespoke
wall by Nick Hartley at
Interior Logistics

could have been quite a culture shock. ‘It wouldn’t have

occurred to me to decorate like this,’ Ann agrees,
pointing out the reclaimed timber on the kitchen walls
and the antique items placed throughout the property.
‘And how long would it have taken for me to
accumulate all this?’ she asks, pointing to shelves laden
with ancient tins, teapots and other memorabilia.
The collector of all these items, and the originator of
the striking décor, is The Skirret’s previous owner,
interior designer Paul Hervey of PHI Concepts. ‘I
bought the house for my family at weekends,’ he
says. ‘It had been used as a grain store and more
recently as a farm shop.’ His upgrades included
repairs to the roof and Velux windows, a replacement
kitchen and shower room, new flooring and total
redecoration. ‘It was a sweet looking building that
needed to feel loved again,’ he says.
The standout features of the house for Paul were
the beautiful stone walls in the living room that
inspired him to create a ‘rustic bolthole using moody,
mellow paint shades’. When paint specialists Little
Greene launched a new palette of old, matt greens,
he was delighted ‘because I knew that the living room,
with all its stone, could take a strong colour.’ As a
result, instead of the usual whitewashed walls you
would expect of a country cottage, the décor is
understated, with pigment-rich greys and greens >

54 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

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

Kitchen
Continuing the industrial-
style theme, a striking
metal pendant light hangs
over the island. Find similar
at Garden Trading

Corridor
The rooms are all linked
by a long corridor with
the entrance hall on the
left, half way down

❝ I HADN’T INTENDED TO BUY AN “UP AND RUNNING” HOUSE,

BUT THE SKIRRET WAS JUST TOO GOOD TO PASS UP
❞

Kitchen
Doubling as a bijou diner,
the space has an island unit
that also works perfectly
as a table for two. Kitchen
units, the Fairford range
by Howdens. Metal and
mango wood kitchen
island, Melchior from
Maisons du Monde.
Stools, Cult Furniture
O X F O R D S H I R E C O T TA G E

Main bedroom
A Velux window spills light
into the space, which has
been designed around
botanical and equine
themes. Horse poster,
PHI Concepts. Throws,
Designers Guild

predominating and ceramic wood-effect tiles making a

ON OUR DOORSTEP... strong statement in the bathroom.
Some of the most intriguing aspects of the cottage
are the accessories that Paul has managed to unearth
Visit … ‘Snowshill Manor
and that bring what he calls a ‘vintage extravaganza’ to
(nationaltrust.org.uk) to see the
eclectic collection of ephemera the rooms. On the wall behind the wood burner in the
belonging to the late Charles Wade, living room, for instance, hangs a striking shallow
architect and artist. The Arts and Crafts basket traditionally used for collecting apples from the
courtyard gardens are beautiful too.’ orchard. A pair of distressed white painted dovecotes
Shop at … ‘Burford Garden are reflected in the mirror. A black vintage typewriter
Company (burford.co.uk) is a
complete with ink ribbon sits on the coffee table, as if
destination store for plants, home
décor and food. You usually find to inspire a would-be novelist. ‘I like to see detailing in
something you didn’t know you a room,’ he explains, ‘and always aim for a homely
needed. Last year I bought an apple feeling. I visit lots of antiques shops in my work where
picker that works brilliantly.’ dealers know me and keep back anything interesting
Go for a meal at… ‘The for me. When I see something I like, I will buy it
FEATURE PAT GARRATT PHOTOGRAPHS TIM IMRIE

Feathered Nest (thefeatherednestinn. because I never know when I might see it again. It
co.uk), which is great for special
occasions. The views are stunning.
means I always have plenty of things to play with!’
We also love The Milton Hare ‘Paul did a great job transforming the cottage before
(themiltonhare.co.uk), which is I bought it,’ says Ann. ‘The paint colours are rich and
excellent for fish dishes.’ deep and he even commissioned the beautifully-made
Roman blinds. Basically I was made redundant with no
curtain-making or decorating to do. The cottage is
perfect and, as the work on it has been done, we have
downloaded a Cotswold Walk app and now have time
to explore more of this gorgeous part of the world.’
To rent The Skirret, visit boutique-retreats.co.uk

56 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Bathroom
An antique cupboard has
been upcycled as a pretty
washstand. Cupboard,
Goose Home and Garden

Bathroom
Distressed black floor tiles
and ceramic wood-effect
wall tiles add drama. Basin
and similar shower, Victorian
Plumbing. Mercia reclaimed
wood effect tiles, Style Ideas
Direct, are a match

❝EYE.
THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING INTERESTING TO CATCH THE
I OFTEN THINK, ‘OH, I DIDN’T NOTICE THAT BEFORE’ ❞

Guest bedroom
A simple metal bed is
softened with a selection of
cushions and cosy throws.
Iron bed, Victorian Dreams.
Cushions from a selection
at Designers Guild
GET THE LOOK

Be inspired by
ANN’S LIVING ROOM
Botanical
illustrations make
charming soft
furnishings.
A Leaf Study linen,
£79m, John Derian at
Designers Guild

s
g.
r
h

Display
everlasting
beautiful blooms. Neutral designs
Peony artificial take on a textural,
country bouquet modern edge.
in vase, £135, John Grade rug, from,
Lewis & Partners using reclaimed £1,209, Ligne Pure
rustic character at Heal’s
xture galore.
offee table on
Gas & Air Studios
ighstreet.com

This deep green-blue

features in the library
of Wimpole Hall.
Harley Green intelligent
matt emulsion, £51.50
Bauhaus meets mid-century on
for 2.5ltr, Little Greene
this generously padded,
strikingly colourful design. Create a cosy,
Retrostar classic line chair, £280, snug-bug
Sternzeit at Bombinate CH&I atmosphere with
exceptionally clean

AnnÕs style tip... MODERN

Country
CLASSIC
burning.
Bembridge wood
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

burning stove, from

INCORPORATE REJUVENATING £1,279, Charnwood

TONAL GREENS THROUGHOUT YOUR

SCHEME FOR A FEELING OF BEING
CONNECTED TO NATURE
58 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
 & INTERIORS

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COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 59
 RURAL HOTSPOT

There’s something
magical about this
little seaside town

LET’S MOVE TO
Whitby
A WINDSWEPT OUTPOST BRIMMING WITH
CHARACTER AND WILD COASTAL WALKS

W
hitby is pretty. This in West Cliff, to £310,000 for atmospheric spot – and predictably
unspoilt former herring a new-build in Bagdale or popular with Stoker fans, who arrive
fishing village at the cheaper terraces in Fishburn. in their thousands for the town’s
mouth of the River Esk has red- BUTCHERS, FISHMONGERS & Goth Weekend festival in November.
roofed cottages to the east, ART With seafood in good supply, SCHOOLS There are no less than
Georgian spa architecture to the it’s no surprise there are excellent five primaries to serve the 13,000-
west, and a smartly painted 75ft wet fish shops, with fresh crab and odd population. St Hilda’s, Stakesby
swing bridge connecting the two. lobster by the bucket load, and top Community, West Cliff, Airy Hill and
There are lighthouses, lamp posts notch fish and chips, too – Magpie East Whitby Community are all
and bobbing boats, surrounded by is highly rated by Rick Stein, though ‘good’. So too is the secondary
the wild North York Moors National locals love Mister Chips. To feed and sixth form Caedmon College.
Park on three sides, while the North your soul, there are galleries galore. GET AROUND A secluded setting
Sea is lapping – or more often Jet jewellery shops are also prolific. is part of Whitby’s charm, yet it’s
crashing – at the harbour walls. But COUNTRY LIFE & CULTURE The only half an hour to Scarborough
there is also an intriguingly darker Edwardian Pannett Park Museum or an hour to York.
seam to explore – quite literally, houses curios ranging from a huge IN THE AREA For surfing, head to
in the form of jet stone, formed fossilised ichthyosaurus to tiny jet small sandy beach Sandsend. Or
from the fossilised remains of the carvings – it’s a ‘superb place for a amble the Cinder Track, a 21-mile
monkey puzzle tree and mined rainy day,’ says one local. The ruins disused railway route, stopping
FEATURE SOPHIE GALE PHOTOGRAPHS PAUL RAYBOULD/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO,

from the cliffs here. Plus, Whitby of Whitby Abbey are a wonderfully at the Ravenscar Tearooms.
is where Bram Stoker set his

Dream homes in Whitby

Gothic novel Dracula.
IN THE ESTATE AGENT’S
IAN THRAVES/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, BRIDGFORDS ESTATE AGENTS

WINDOW In Whitby, even the

property market has its quirks. As
estate agent Lindsey Shaw explains:
‘Due to the higgledy-piggledy
nature of the cottages in the old
town, there is often a “flying
freehold” situation – a bedroom in
one abode might be directly above
the sitting room of another.’ This TOP TIP MOOR PLEASE VALLEY VIEWS
can cause problems with mortgage In Whitby’s sought-after Dating back to the 17th This contemporary three-
West Cliff is this spacious century, this three-bed bed property is set in
lenders unused to that. ‘So you’ll
one-bedroom apartment in stone farmhouse, known an elevated position in
need an agent with good local a Victorian terrace. There are as the Hermitage, has Briggswath. Renewable
insight!’ she says. Prices range from original features and views views across moorland. tech and energy efficiencies
£500,000 for a three-bed property to the sea for £139,950. Offers over £525,000. abound for £565,000.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 61

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 LOCAL HERO
Seal rescue; Jane
Bowden (left) and
fellow warden Tony
Chapman; an adult
grey seal with netting
around its neck

❝It’s hard not to

melt at the sight ❝
of a seal pup
Jane Bowden braves all weathers on
Norfolk’s beaches to help protect one
of the UK’s largest seal colonies
Every winter, from November to jumped at the chance to join the their email addresses wanting to
February, Horsey and Winterton Friends and help the seals thrive. know how little dramas play out – will
beaches in Norfolk become With their big eyes and soft white a pup find its mum again; will a
crowded with seals, who come fur, pups are so endearing. But rescued animal survive?
ashore to give birth, feed and despite the winning looks, these are When an animal is in dire need of
fatten up their pups. It has to be far from cuddly toys; they are wild help, our RSPCA-trained rescue
one of the most extraordinary creatures. They will defend themselves teams step in, and wardens like
natural phenomenons on earth, from perceived predators, from dogs me add an extra pair of hands
and it happens right here in the UK. to humans. More than that, if people when needed. One rescue I helped
It’s not unusual to see four or five get too close, frightened mothers with was a seal with a net stuck
thousand packed onto the two often flee into the sea, abandoning round its neck and rear flipper. We
beaches, attracted by seas rich in pups. It’s a dreadful scene when a took it to the RSPCA hospital near
sand eels. I have worked as a lone seal approaches any mother it Fakenham where a vet removed this
FEATURE SOPHIE GALE PHOTOGRAPHS DAMIEN STABLER, GEOFF SMITH

volunteer warden for charity Friends can in the hope of milk – only to be and discovered a deep wound where
of Horsey Seals for four years and I rejected and attacked. We do all we it had tightened as it grew. We carried
am lucky enough to have seen this can to prevent this happening. out about 150 similar rescues last year.
remarkable sight many times, and it Every one of these pups is Some days can be upsetting – I
never fails to utterly delight me. precious but only 50 per cent have never forgotten the time we
For 25 years I worked as a radio survive more than one year. With lost three pups in one day. But
and TV producer for the BBC, up to 130,000 visitors to the two there were about 400 seals when the
including a stint as a war beaches every year, us wardens – charity began its work in 2011 and
correspondent. On retirement in there are 350 of us in total – have our by 2019 there were 2,300 pups
2005, I moved to Florida with my work cut out. A major part of our role alone, and it feels magical to play a
husband, a helicopter pilot, where I is helping everyone understand why part in that. As a former war reporter,
volunteered to conserve sea turtles. we need to leave the animals be. But some small part of me always has a
When we returned to the UK, it was a even at a safe distance, the seals sense of wanting to defend what is
joy to discover we were not far from provide an addictive spectacle – I right, and this is well worth fighting for.
another of nature’s wonders – one always say it is like watching a soap To find out more, visit
of the UK’s largest seal colonies. I opera. Sometimes visitors leave me friendsofhorseyseals.co.uk

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 63

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MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

❝We make clothes

that remind us of
our childhood ❞
DESIGNER AND OWNER IMOGEN DRIVER

ÔT he idea for our childrenswear

business, Little Cotton Clothes,
started out as a casual
conversation with my sister,
Leonie, four years ago,’ recalls Imogen Driver.
‘We were sitting on our mum’s sofa chatting
about the lack of lovely, simple children’s
such good quality that they could be kept
and passed on for many years.
‘We really didn’t expect the idea to come
to much at all,’ she admits modestly, ‘so we
invested only a small sum each to start with.’
Imogen’s career background, however, stood
her in great stead. ‘I was a fashion and
clothing available. Neither of us felt taken homeware buyer for major companies for
with what was readily on the market, which many years, so I have a solid knowledge of
we thought was either too “trendy” and the retail business,’ she explains. ‘And while
throwaway, or terribly expensive.’ The pair my sister’s working background is very
found themselves reminiscing about dresses different to mine (Leonie was previously
their mother had made for them and their a stonemason and quantity surveyor),
other two sisters as children, and the sweet her creative instincts, eye for detail and
clothes worn by storybook characters such practical skills have proved invaluable.’
as Milly-Molly-Mandy and Christopher Robin. Despite living miles apart – Imogen is based
Despite the nostalgic appeal, however, in Hampton in London and Leonie’s home
the sisters also recognised that clothes is in Worcestershire, where they both grew up
needed to be practical, too. ‘We have five – the pair worked closely together to imagine
children between us, so we know all about their very first clothing range. ‘We had limited
the need to splash in puddles, climb trees dressmaking experience,’ says Imogen. ‘We
and enjoy a little rough and tumble without drew the basic designs of just six items, made
worrying,’ laughs Imogen. ‘We began to up a pattern for each and sent them to a
wonder if it might be possible to create contact that we had found online – they then
a range of affordable clothes in natural graded them to different sizes for us.’
fabrics that would reflect childhood in a Next came the process of finding manufacturers
more traditional way, and would be of who could produce the items. ‘Through my >

68 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 Imogen works from
her light and airy studio
at home in Hampton,
while her sister
Leonie is based in
Worcestershire.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 69

MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

What we love most...

❝ CUSTOMERS TELL US OUR CLOTHES ARE PASSED ON
AND LOVED ALL OVER AGAIN, LONG AFTER THE ORIGINAL
WEARER HAS GROWN TOO BIG FOR THEM! ❞

previous work, I was lucky enough to already little designs had become a reality,’ says Imogen.
have some fantastic contacts in India – people ‘Then all we had to do was sell them!’
who were able to recommend factories with Initially, the brand launched online and relied
solid, ethical working practices,’ Imogen on Instagram to speak directly to customers.
explains. ‘They were kind enough to give ‘It was all very low-key: we combined
us a chance by making the tiny numbers professional imagery with photographs we took
of items that we started out ordering. We ourselves,’ says Imogen. ‘To our amazement,
have continued to build fantastic working our audience grew. I think the simplicity and
relationships with them over the last few years.’ innocence of the images really appealed,
Little Cotton Clothes’ first collection was and exactly conveyed what we were all about.
made using fabrics the sisters sourced Before long, stockists from the UK and further
themselves and was deliberately small – just 15 afield were approaching us, and we now
items per size for each piece. ‘It was so exciting have 70 stockists around the world.’
when the first batch arrived and we saw our All this meant, of course, that business had
to start moving up a gear – growing the
collection while ensuring the business was
Leonie (left) and as streamlined, cost-effective and efficient as
Imogen’s business is a
possible. ‘We now work with a handful of
family-focused affair
designers to help us create the florals we are
known for,’ explains Imogen. ‘The fabrics are
specified by us and sourced by our chosen
suppliers, then Leonie works up a technical
pack – the essential information our factory
needs to correctly produce our clothing.’
Despite the company’s success, it remains
very much a family-focused affair. ‘I work from
a little studio in the garden every day, so I’m
around for my two girls. And Leonie, who is
in charge of everything from quality control
to overseeing the sample process and
managing the warehouse, works with our
mum to pack up all the items for despatch.’
These days, the enterprise has a loyal – and
sometimes royal – following. ‘A little while
ago, we received an order from Kensington
Palace for a dress for Princess Charlotte; we
just couldn’t believe it,’ reveals Imogen. ‘Then
as soon as she appeared wearing it in the
press, we were inundated with orders and
the design sold out almost immediately!’
Little Cotton Clothes has come a long way
from that casual sisterly chat. ‘But our approach
is the same,’ says Imogen. ‘We want beautiful,
practical clothes that are cherished and passed
to other children, or even through generations.’
littlecottonclothes.com

70 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 Imogen checks
every item in the
collection carefully.
Blouse, Womenswear
collection, £60

Little Cotton Clothes’

charm is reminiscent
of another age.
Dorcas velvet pinafore,
£45; Sidonie sailor
blouse, £40; tights, £12

Imogen’s garden
studio makes it easier
to separate work from
busy family life

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 71

 ON OUR
DOORSTEP…
Visit… ‘Kew Gardens (kew.org).
Make sure you visit the Marianne
North Gallery to discover an
amazing story of a brave
Victorian woman who travelled
solo around the world painting.’
Shop at… ‘Sunbury Antiques
Market for vintage and antique
treasures (sunburyantiques.com).
I rarely buy anything new
and would much prefer to
give something old and
pre-loved a new home.’
Go for a meal at…
‘The King’s Head Teddington
(kingsheadteddington.com) is a
lovely, cosy gastropub with an
open kitchen and seriously good
food – an especial treat after a
winter walk around Bushy Park.’

FEATURE SHARON PARSONS PHOTOGRAPHS CAROLINE JONES,

SOPHIE BARWOOD, ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Bushy Park is an
excellent destination
for a winter walk

72 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 MY COUNTRY BUSINESS

HOW TO ESTABLISH A SMALL

FASHION BUSINESS
MAKE YOUR COMPANY STAND OUT FROM THE REST

Imogen Driver and her sister Leonie – and the manufacturers – fit with your says Kelly Bray, a childrenswear buyer
Taibi have seen Little Cotton Clothes principles, ethics and requirements.’ at Selfridges in London. ‘There are
grow steadily since it was founded in also practical considerations – an item
2016. They explain their approach… TELL THE STORY Everything from needs to be easy to wear. Of course,
the visuals and style, to the nuances of we also expect very high quality, and
BELIEVE IN YOUR PRODUCT ‘We only tone and website design, underpin the sustainability is incredibly important.’
make clothes we genuinely love,’ says message of your brand, so it’s important
Leonie. ‘Otherwise it’s hard to keep to get it right. ‘For instance, photographer DO THE BASICS While Imogen and
enthusiasm and focus – and you need Sophie Barwood, who took the pictures Leonie didn’t invest a great deal
that in good times and bad. If you love at my wedding, was the obvious choice financially into their enterprise initially,
what you do, that authenticity shines to shoot our first collection. Her style is having a solid business plan right
through, and that in turn inspires trust slightly dreamy – a nostalgic feel we want from the start is essential. ‘Keeping
and confidence from your customers.’ to convey,’ says Imogen. ‘We’ve worked on top of finances can be incredibly
with her ever since.’ time-consuming,’ says Imogen. ‘So if
DO YOUR RESEARCH Finding the you can’t do it properly yourself, be
best manufacturers and suppliers and GET NOTICED Getting on the radar prepared to seek professional help.’
building strong, trusted relationships is of stockists and buyers can take time Nevertheless, you need to be astute.
key to success. ‘If you want your product – although social media is a fantastic ‘Ensure you fully understand the terms
made close to home, organisations tool, if it’s used effectively. ‘Otherwise, and conditions of your suppliers, as well
such as Made in Britain (madeinbritain. research stores and outlets you think as those of everybody else you deal
org) are really helpful,’ says Imogen. are a good fit with your brand, and with,’ says Kelly. ‘Reading the small print
‘Otherwise you may need to secure a send them a clear outline of what carefully can head off future problems.’
buying agent to find the best factories your company is all about, along with
overseas and to guide the production professional imagery and essential REMEMBER YOUR CUSTOMER
of your items. They will essentially information,’ says Leonie. But what It’s important to touch base regularly
be an extension of your team and makes your product stand out from – talk to your customers about what
are a link to the factory. Obviously, the rest? ‘We’re always looking for they especially like, or ways to improve
recommendations are ideal, but do something that is a bit different and both your service and range. Focus
your research carefully to ensure they will spark joy or even jog a memory,’ groups can also be highly valuable.

The one lesson I’ve learnt...

❝ DON’T TRY TO DO IT ALL YOURSELF; GET HELP
WHERE AND WHEN YOU NEED IT. THE BEST THING
I EVER DID WAS EMPLOY A BOOKKEEPER!
❞
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 73
 welcome to the world of

The one-stop edit of the best modern

style inspiration and design ideas
 DESIGNER PROFILE

Meet Maria Sigma

TEXTILE Maria takes
care to make

DESIGNER
her environment
as eco-friendly
as her crafts

With her zero-waste designs and contemporary

craftsmanship, Maria Sigma is creating beautiful woven
textiles that feel right and relevant for 21st-century life
Tell us about your design Why is it important for you to
background. As a child, I used produce zero waste with what
to draw and paint a lot, and I you create? The textile and fashion
particularly liked to use yarns and industry is one of the largest
textile materials, but I hadn’t tried polluters on the planet. There aren’t
weaving until my first degree in many things we as consumers can
textile conservation, where I came do to stop it, but as a maker working
across different textile making as part of the industry, I’m trying not
techniques. I then studied textile to add to the problem. I use natural
design and specialised in hand undyed materials and/or waste yarns,
weaving at Chelsea College of and I consider the environmental
Arts. I love weaving because it impact at every stage of the design
combines creativity, maths and and making process, as well as
incredible machinery (the loom). within my daily working environment
and studio space.
Where do you find creative
inspiration? Inspiration comes from How would you describe your
many different places, it could be a style? I like to emphasise the raw
location, a book, a song, a memory, quality of the materials and textures.
a person, an artwork, a weaving By removing any superfluous
technique, materials and fibres or elements, my aim is to produce
nature. I grew up in Athens and draw high-quality interior products that
inspiration from my Greek heritage, are destined to become heirlooms.
as well as the British landscape,
which I particularly like because of What type of yarn do you work
its earthy colours and rich textures. with? I love wool because of its
ability to transform. Once woven
and washed, depending on the piece, handwoven with two woollen
FEATURE JACKY PARKER PHOTOGRAPH (PORTRAIT) ALUN CALLENDER

Many of temperature and agitation, and warps and a natural undyed linen/
Maria’s pieces
on the thickness of the yarn and jute/cotton weft, in a plain weave
are one-offs
the weaving patterns, wool can creating a circular tube format, which
change dramatically – it becomes has been reversed inside-out and
more textural and fluffy. It’s like horizontally-vertically. It’s inspired by
it becomes alive. It’s also the only the Greek landscape and trousseaux
fibre that naturally has so many pieces of my heritage (hand-
different colours and shades, which crocheted laces and handwoven
means no dyeing process, less energy bed-coverings) and it combines the
and water waste and no toxins. Cycladic minimalism with the purity
of the natural fibres that were
What’s your favourite piece? traditionally used in the past.
My Hestia : Andros wall hanging,
because of its technical elements Sum up your style in three words.
and symbolism. It’s a one-of-a-kind Minimal, natural and earthy.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 75

SHOPPING TREND

CH&I loves…
GLOWING
EMBERS
Recreate the drama of
charcoal and flames
with a hot take on
country colours

Drape an effortless layer of

tactile luxury on seating with
accessories in fading tones.
Carbon dawn dip-dye throw,
£65; cushion, £32; corduroy
cushion, £32; seagrass
basket, £42; ladder, £95;
Aztec rug, £125, all French
Connection Home
 Create a bedroom
sanctuary with calming
ombre effects.

MAKE IT
Marlowe jersey
double quilt, £178;
pillowcases, £68

COUNTRYÉ for two; square

pillowcases,
£48 each, all
Anthropologie
Stoke up the hibernating
warmth with dramatic contrasts
of black and gold – think
coals and flame, or even
butter on toast. We’re talking
vivid winter sun shades infused
with burnished metallics and
charcoal embers to deliver
smouldering richness to any
nest. Take the look lighter
or darker, depending on
lighting and silhouettes.

3 1 PO UF F E Rest and relax

with your feet up. Faux leather
4 pouffe in Bronze, £125,
Raj Tent Club
2 D ECA NTER Pour your
favourite tipple from a design
made from recycled glass.

2 Mila decanter in Burnt

Amber, £39.95, Nkuku
3 LAN TERN Pop in a tea
light and enjoy the soft glow.
Brass finish candle lantern,
£24, Curious Egg
4 A PR ON Blend into the
room scheme with hard-
wearing contrast colours.
Linen workwear apron in

5 Burnt Sienna, £65, Toast

5 F LO WER S Decorate with
golden grasses. Faux Seterea

6 flowers in Rich Orange

wrapped in Paper, £15,
Rockett St George
6 S OFA Snuggle up on a
retro silhouette. Dylan four-
seater sofa in Eton Cord Honey,
from £2,595, Rose & Grey

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 77

SHOPPING TREND

Combine sustainability
and style with a stack of
recycled cotton lovelies.
Woven throws in Honey/
Black, Ecru and Honey,
£32 each, Rose & Grey

Mix a medley of vases

in mottled metallics
and dipped glaze OUR EXPERT SAYSÉ

❝TONES
finishes. Lounge stool,
£229; cushion, £49.90;
vases, from a selection,
BRAVE, CHARRED
all Bloomingville STRIKE A
SOPHISTICATED CONTRAST
WHEN USED AGAINST
YELLOWS AND

7
ORANGES
❞
HOLLY PHILLIPS, STYLE CONTENT EDITOR

7 P ENDA NT Especially

8
eye-catching when two or three
are grouped together. Dexter
ceiling pendant in Burnished
Copper, £49, Atkin & Thyme
8 MU G Reactive glaze
meets rustic texture. Ombre
Black to Brown mug, £10,
The Forest & Co
9 TRAY Use this
hammered design to serve
or display. Antiqued Brass
tray, £75, Ella James
10 CU S HIO N Bring in a

10 little abstract pattern. Saltaire

cushion in Orange Red,
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

£115, Wicklewood

78 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 G LY H A N D M
I N
A
V

DE
LO

H
ER I N
E IN R I T A
B
 x
®

Enhanced
E a lip resistance
slip re nce of 20m
20mm tilele Frost and fade proof, therefore will
al for out lications w
withstand harsh winters and scorchingng
to
t swim i und
ssurrounds. summ
summers.

h and hard-wearing. eptualised to run seamle

T e tiles will last for decades and still to out through a bi-fold door installat
stunning.
s
ly on patios,
Ideal externally pa nd
balconies and
m ble so
The tiles are impermeable o resist roof terraces rnally for kitchens,
mould, moss and st i . conservatori s d ing areas.

londontile.co.uk | 03333 355 00 60 strength | beauty | resilience

 SEASONAL DECOR

A home in
HARMONY
Create a haven to ease the soul and
soothe the senses, with beauty, grace
and a refined but simple touch

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 81

 TABLE TALK

Make a cosy corner for winter

dining with a circular table
drawn up near a fire. An
upholstered bench makes for
comfortable seating, while the
round rug claims the space
in an open-plan setting.
 SEASONAL DECOR

A warm glow
ADOPT THE MOOD-
BOOSTING SCANDI
HABIT OF LIGHTING A
CANDLE, MORNING,
NOON OR NIGHT.
CHOOSE NATURAL
SCENTS FOR GENTLE
STRESS RELEASE
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 83
 WARM & COSY

Reinvent the traditional fireside

scene with a contemporary
stove framed by a view, rather
than a mantel. With soft drapes,
squishy upholstery and a
comfy pouffe, the look is
a new take on country style.
 SEASONAL DECOR

Refined rustic
THE LOOK IS ELEGANT
YET EASY. MARRY SOFT
LINENS AND SUBTLE
TEXTURE WITH NEAT
LINES, BARE BRICK AND
STEAM-BENT WOOD
IN A GENTLE, NATURE-
INSPIRED PALETTE
COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 85
SEASONAL DECOR

DREAM CATCHER

Combine toasty shades and

natural fabrics for dreamy
slumber moments. Warming
earth and spice shades pep up
subtler coloured linens, with
a signature cushion adding
a touch of pattern.

86 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 SEASONAL DECOR

ALL THE DETAILS,

PRODUCTS & PRICES
A HOME IN HARMONY wood lids, £27 for small; £45 for large;
Back board painted in Valspar Norwegian Amber tumblers, £24 for two, all LSA.
Wood L10BW18D gloss finish, £21 for 1ltr, B&Q. Gertrud bamboo cups, £19 for six; oak salt
Walls painted in Strong White estate emulsion and pepper grinders, £79, all Folk Interiors.
No.2001, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Premium raw oak honey, £2.89, Maters & Co.
Organic granola, £5.99; organic whole wheat Hazel terracotta roasting pot, £35, Kagu.
bran flakes, £2.99; Band White salad bowl, Handmade stoneware butter dish, £34,
£29 each; Band White dinner plates, £18 Rowen & Wren. Ash arc wood bowl, £40, Ash
each; White and Green enamel mugs, £9 & Plumb. Mustard stoneware dinner plates,
each; bowl, £10; teapot, £29; organic £15 each; side plates, £9 each; Ochre footed
PAGE 81 cranberry & orange split oats, £4.99; bowl, £14, all Rockett St George. Board, £33;
Henry storage jar, £22; organic self-raising mini egg holder, £8, both Bruun. Raw linen
wholemeal flour, £1.99; anti-bacterial hand bread bag, £14, Pophams Home. Bread and
rub, £10; White & Natural check napkin, £10, pastries from a selection, Pophams Bakery.
all Daylesford. Lotta container with natural Turned wood dish, £50, Nafisi Studio

TABLE TALK
Fjord oak dining table, £475; Fjord oak cushion, £37, Folk Interiors. Amber grooved
dining chairs, £450 for pair; Mads Petite sofa glass carafe, £30; amber grooved glass
in Soft Grey, £995; Agna rug, £175; Black tumblers, £50 for six, Raj Tent Club. Pophams
spoons, £80 for set, all Cox & Cox. Urchin tea cup and saucer by Jess Ros, £25 each,
pendant light in Ash, £175, Tom Raffield. Pophams Home. Amber tealight holder,
Impression Cream breakfast bowls, £120 £3.75, Sainsbury’s Home. Shutters, from
for 12-piece dinner set, Denby Pottery. a selection, Woody’s Shutters. Home for the
PAGES 82-83 Bayswater vase, £44; Wentworth throw in Soul book by Sara Bird & Dan Duchars, £19.99,
Rose Hip, £170, both Neptune. Linen Ryland Peters & Small

WARM & COSY Short wide candle holder by Andrea Roman,

Rye three-seater sofa in Essentials Plain £28; latte cup by Jess Jos, £16.50, both
Taupe, £1,717, Sofas & Stuff. Curry light Pophams Home. Cabbage mini stone bowl,
linen cushion, £42; Kata Nude cushion, £10.50, Daylesford. Curtain made from
£57, both Folk Interiors. Umber pure wool Ruskin by Morris & Co in Manilla, 236873,
Dansko throw, £95, Loom & Last. Georgette £59 m, Style Library. Similar dipped basket,
round footstool in Flax pure Belgian linen, £20, Cox & Cox
£750; Beaumont rug in Grey Marl, large,
FEATURE AND ART DIRECTION SARA BIRD STYLING SELINA LAKE STYLE ASSISTANTS

PAGES 84-85 £699, both Sofa.com. Wycombe armchair, REFINED RUSTIC

£480, Neptune. Mustard chevron throw, £55, Black log-storage basket, £120; Roda
Cox & Cox. Sideboard, £900, Design Vintage. Mustard stoneware side plate, £12, both
Mustard Roman-style vase, £24, Rockett St Rockett St George. Dillie stoneware match
George. Elm Burr bud vase, £50; Elm moon striker, £18, Nordic House. Natural rapeseed
SARAH PRALL AND BELLA DUNNE PHOTOGRAPHS DAN DUCHARS

plate, £60, both Ash & Plumb. Tortoiseshell aromatherapy candle, £16.95, Yellow Gorse.
tealight holder, for similar try Folk Interiors. Mustard chevron throw, £55, Cox & Cox

DREAM CATCHER botanical print, £275 for four, Cox & Cox.
Wall painted in Strong White estate emulsion Oatmeal linen pillowcases, £36 per pair;
No.2001, £47.95 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Black square pillowcase, £38 per pair; kingsize
metal Oliver bed frame, £445 for double, duvet cover, £170; Cream linen crinkle
Feather & Black. Angle stool in natural oiled throw, £120; Mustard linen pillowcase,
oak & natural bend leather by Form & Refine, £38 for pair, all Piglet in Bed. Brique Linen
£278, Skandium. Handcrafted sycamore Marais throw, £140, Loom & Last. Autumn
bloom vase, £120, Ash & Plumb. Pillow mist, Green linen cushion cover, £37, Folk
PAGE 86 £14.95, Yellow Gorse. Orchy table lamp with Interiors. Scallop stripe cushion in Sage,
natural jute shade, £135, Pooky. Framed £70, Tori Murphy

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 87

MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

Chilson console table, CURATE

£160; square basket,
from £45; Farringdon CORRIDOR
hook rail, £35;
Holkham umbrella CLUTTER
stand, £40, all
Garden Trading
To keep the flow through
a hallway, go for an open
console with shelves or
drawers over chunky
furniture pieces. Use the
shelves to store blankets
and scarves, using
baskets to hide shoes.
Giving everything a
home makes it easy for
everyone in the family
to tidy up. Coat hooks
are ideal for jackets you
use every day, but try
not to overcrowd the
hooks, and edit the
selection seasonally.

Everything in its
PLACE C UPB OA RD
BU DD IE S
Hanging storage
Create a sense of ease and shelf, £3.50,
Wilko. Variera
order with simple storage tips shelf insert, £3,
Ikea. Laundry
capsules
that keep your home organised container,
£15.99,
and your mind clear Zara Home

88 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

Box files in Aurora Charcoal
and Aurora Silver/Gold,
£34.50 each, The Dormy
House. Small box trays,
£28 each; similar
rectangular box trays,
£68 each; laundry baskets,
£180 each, all the Ashcroft
range at Neptune. Cream
tags, £1 for 10, Hobbycraft

THE ART OF FOLDING

Start by organising linens and
towels by category. Bundle
bedding sets when they are
put away, either by tying them
together with string or ribbon
or storing the set inside one of
the corresponding pillowcases.
For small towels, flannels and
additional pillowcases, stack
them on their thinnest end,
stored in labelled baskets
rather than piles, making it easy
to pull the basket out without
disturbing everything else.
MAKE A HOUSE A HOME

Hanging
seagrass
basket, £12.50,
Cox & Cox

G AT HE R BI T S A N D BOBS
Designate jars and boxes or add
a hanging basket to hooks in the
hallway to store spare change,
pens, batteries – all those
miscellaneous items that end up
cluttering surfaces or drawers.

Kallax unit, £25; Drona

boxes, £3 each; drawer
inserts, £17; Kvarnvik
box set, £15, all Ikea

DIVIDE AND CONQUER

Maximise hanging space in a wardrobe USEF UL AN D
BEAUT IFU L
Natural rattan three-tier
by using skinny hangers for shirts and storage stand, £225, Ella
James. Aqua Nova Lubin
removing bulky items, such as jeans, to storage basket, £15,
Amara. Elizabeth jar,
store folded on shelves instead. Ensure £35, Hunter & Co.
Vintage-style numbered
long items are hung at one side to free bottles, £12 for five,
Rockett St George
up space for a small shelving unit or
drawers. Use these spaces to organise
smaller items, such as rolled T-shirts and
scarves, or to stack shoes and sandals,
adding boxes for jewellery or belts.
90 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
Suffolk shelf,
£195, Neptune

STAT EM E N T S HELVI N G
Be brave and paint not just
the shelves a dark colour,
but behind them, too. To style
them, group similar items
together to create vignettes,
ensuring there’s a variety of
shapes and sizes, leaving space
around them so the eye rests
on the display. To keep shelving
uncluttered, maximise space
inside cupboards by using
under-shelf baskets, stacking
shelf inserts or racks for pans,
lids or baking trays.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 91

MAKE A HOUSE A HOME
Solna bar trolley,
£375, Nordic House

TRE AT THE
SE NSES
Iris Hantverk cedar
balls, £5, Arket.
Morris & Co scented
drawer liners, £10 for
five, Heathcote &
Ivory. Scented oval,
£45, Diptyque

CALM AND
COLLECTED

Decanting frequently
used items into matching
jars will create a uniform
look. Try to use up what
you have before buying
new to avoid too many
bottles cluttering up the
bath or shower ledge.
Have a clear out of the F LE XI B L E PI ECES
A trolley can be a flexible friend, and the thin frame and minimalist
bathroom cupboard, too. design makes it perfect for small spaces. When not in use, create a
display with your bottles and glasses, adding a plant, vase, lamp or
Audley storage jars, from candle. It will work in the kitchen as an over-flow piece, in the bathroom
£8 each, Garden Trading for stacked towels and toiletry bottles, and in an office or hallway.
FEATURE MICHELA COLLING PHOTOGRAPHS TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

3 OF THE BEST SHOE STORAGE OPTIONS

1 3

2
1. Extendable stackable shoe rack, £22.99, Lakeland 2. Like It shoe holders,
£6 for two, John Lewis & Partners 3. Skubb shoe boxes, £7 for four, Ikea

92 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 Elfa rack, £95,
A Place For
Everything

S PACE SAV E R
In utility spaces, bathrooms or
even teenager’s bedrooms, the
back of the door can be prime
storage space. And because
you can easily see what you
have, you’ll be more inclined to
use it up and not over-buy. This
easy-to-reach storage is ideal
for items that are in constant
use, such as washing
detergents and tea towels,
while less-used cleaning items
can be stored away.

OUR EXPERT SAYS…

❝ HAVING AN
ORGANISED HOME
WILL REDUCE TIME
SPENT CLEANING
AND ALLOW YOU
TO ENJOY YOUR
SURROUNDINGS
MORE
❞
VICKY SILVERTHORN,
PROFESSIONAL ORGANISER,
YOUNEEDAVICKY.COM
Clever ways to
CONFIGURE YOUR
KITCHEN SPACE
TIME FOR A NEW LAYOUT? USE EXPERT DESIGN TRICKS TO MEET
YOUR NEEDS AND MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR FLOOR SPACE
 KITCHEN IDEAS

GET IN THE ZONE

When planning your kitchen
layout, one key aspect is to
consider how you want to use
the kitchen and where you want
items to be stored. Naturally,
heavy pots and pans should
be kept in lower cabinets, and
within easy reach of your oven
and hob. Likewise, mugs should
never be too far away from
your kettle. In this open-plan
scheme, the dining table is in
the same space as the kitchen,
so the addition of a tall dresser
provides storage for crockery
and cutlery, to make laying
the table quick and easy.

Bespoke kitchen,
from £35,000,
Martin Moore

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 95

 PUT IN A PANTRY
A pantry or larder separate
from the rest of your kitchen can
help keep things clear and tidy,
as it is an ideal space to keep
store cupboard staples and
baking equipment. In this barn
conversion project, the ceilings
were low and natural light was
limited, so a walk-in pantry was
designed with internal windows
and under-counter cabinets
Bespoke Shaker- only, so that it could feel bright
style kitchen, from and connected to the rest of
£30,000 including the kitchen. Automatic lighting
appliances, worktops
and installation,
makes it extra bright inside.
Sustainable Kitchens
 KITCHEN IDEAS

Simply Burbidge
Finsbury kitchen
in Seal Grey, from
£7,500, Burbidge

LEAN INTO AN L-SHAPE

Most L-shaped kitchens are fitted on to
adjacent walls of a room, creating a practical
corner design. They provide plenty of work
surface as well as storage, though be mindful
of where the two runs of cabinetry meet – the
addition of pull-out drawers or an internal
carousel will help to avoid wasting useful
storage space. Consider keeping wall
cabinets to one side of an L-shaped layout,
opting for open shelving on the other so as
not to make the room feel overcrowded. If
space allows, you could add a dining table.

FIT RIGHT IN
You are likely to inherit some unusual nooks
in older country properties, so taking a
flexible approach to your kitchen design may
be necessary. Look for alcoves and recesses
that you can build storage into and toss
out the idea of a conventional fixed layout.
Add single runs of cabinetry where they
fit best in the space you have to work with,
incorporating your appliances in between.
To add to this flexible approach, go for a The Hartford collection
free-standing island design – units on legs in Willow, from
open up the amount of floor space on show £20,000, Tom Howley
and can be moved around if needed, too.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 97

KITCHEN IDEAS

Kitchen, from £25,000,

Life Kitchens

BUILD BANQUETTE SEATING

You can fit more seating into the available
space when it is built into the design of
your kitchen, as in this smart L-shaped
layout with banquette seating. The fitted,
upholstered benches not only provide
storage beneath, but are a clever way to hide
any unsightly wires or pipework. ‘These are
a necessary evil that may have to be boxed
in to be concealed,’ says Daniela Condo,
designer at Life Kitchens. ‘See if services can
be re-routed inside bulkheads, voids or
under the plinth of the kitchen.’

MAKE A STAND
Often found in rustic-style homes, free-
standing furniture offers a more flexible
approach to kitchen design. It’s a relaxed
look, enabling you to add single runs of
cabinets around the kitchen to create your
ideal layout, incorporating your appliances
in between. This mix-and-match method
works particularly well in older, country-style
properties where the room may be unusually
The Sebastian Cox
shaped. Paired with complementary wall-
kitchen, from hung cabinets, a run of wooden free-standing
£15,000, deVOL cabinets will provide ample storage in a small
kitchen, as seen in this example by deVOL.

98 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 GATHER AROUND
THE KITCHEN TABLE
A kitchen-diner layout is ideal
for busy family households,
where both the cooking and
dining zones sit within the
same design. ‘When planning
a kitchen, take inspiration
from the existing features
in the room, such as doors,
thoroughfares and windows,’
says Sally Hinks, kitchen
designer at Harvey Jones.
‘Looking at these elements
will help you site the table in the
best possible position.’

The Original kitchen,

from £20,000,
Harvey Jones
 GO WITH THE FLOW
‘Always walk through the plan in
your mind to ensure it flows well
and works efficiently, making
sure that you can easily and fully
access appliances so there are
no pinch points,’ says Jayne
Everett, creative director at
Naked Kitchens. ‘If you go for an
island, make sure there’s
enough space around it to pass
through and open cabinets,’ she
adds. It’s the well-planned,
seamless flow around the
U-shaped layout and the
Bespoke
double-ended island that makes
kitchen, from
£40,000, this kitchen design work well.
Naked Kitchens
 KITCHEN IDEAS

Bespoke kitchen,
from £40,000,
Humphrey Munson

UTILISE THE U-SHAPE

The U-shaped kitchen is one of the most
efficient layouts to have in both small and
open-plan homes alike. It is the easiest way to
achieve the ergonomic triangle that is so
often talked about in kitchen design – where
your fridge, cooker and sink are all within
easy reach of one another. Larger kitchens
can often accommodate the addition of a
central island, too. With plenty of room for
cabinetry and built-in appliances around the
edge, the island provides a casual seating
area and additional preparation space.

INCLUDE AN ISLAND
With open-plan living proving increasingly
popular, islands today come in a range of
styles, functions and sizes to suit your space.
Offering the possibility of extra room for
both cooking and seating, they can help turn
a kitchen into the hub of the home. To make
an island the focal point, choose one in a
FEATURE YVETTE MURRELL

different colour from the rest of your

cabinetry, as shown in this traditional kitchen
The Durham
design that combines earthy brown and
collection, from £780
off-white. The length of this island allows a for a bifold dresser,
variety of different elements to be included, LochAnna Kitchens
including a sink and ample storage.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 101

LITERARY
REFLECTIONS
Create a ‘hall of mirrors’ with these
impressive hand-made statement
pieces. Six fixed mirrored glass
shelves feature an antiqued finish,
edged with wood painted antique
gold – every inch is mirrored,
including the undersides. Line
them up and watch light bounce.
Versailles ashmolean bookshelves
in Antique Bronze, £1,695, Oka

Join the
BOOK CLUB
WHEN IT COMES TO BOOKCASES WE’RE
ON THE SAME PAGE AS YOU, WITH SMART
SHELVING THAT DOES JUSTICE TO THE
CLASSICS ON YOUR READING LIST
 FURNITURE BUYER’S GUIDE

VISIONARY
TWIST
FLEXI- A wonderfully odd twist
on a classic, don’t let the
SCANDI distorted silhouette
Just the thing deceive you. Made from
for home office stainless steel rigging
headquarters, this designed to withstand
asymmetric beauty hurricanes, you can
offers both open and safely pile on the
veneer panelled page-turners.
storage areas. De-constructed industrial
Lars open shelving bookcase, £585, Konk
unit, £799, Heal’s

❝ INJECT CHARACTER AND

PERSONALITY INTO FUNCTIONAL
PIECES WITH AN ASSORTMENT
OF STAGGERED HEIGHTS, VARIED
SHAPES AND ECLECTIC STYLES ❞
CURATE
& CONTRAST
Display beloved tomes
among other treasures
in this stylish, open-
book design. Tiered and
fabulously freestanding,
an antique brass-plated
frame hugs white-
washed mango wood.
Laguna shelving unit,
£599, Atkin & Thyme

EBONY DRAMA
Inspired by traditional campaign-style
furniture, this stunning individual
benefits from three spacious shelves
for books, magazines and documents.
And wheels make it a mobile library!
Barnett black bookcase, £885,
Sweetpea & Willow

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 103

FURNITURE BUYER’S GUIDE

ORGANISED
LIGHT OAK
A clear matt lacquer
finish shows off the
natural beauty of
the wood, while the
gently curved finger
joints bring softness
to the piece.
Bosco low bookcase,
£640, Ercol

MARBLE MAZE
This eternity design features
a thick slice of natural marble
that has been polished and
BESPOKE WALLSCAPE
Configured from wall storage units,
paired with a sturdy bronzed-
this modular masterpiece includes four
metal frame to striking effect.
base units with doors, plus six double
Fitzroy Bronze Emperador
shelf and eight single shelf units.
marble circular shelving unit,
Bruton library wall, £2,520,
£1,200, Libra
The Dormy House

❝ STYLE SHELVES WITH

THINGS THAT WILL MAKE
YOU SMILE – SUCH AS
INSPIRED READS, ART
AND PLANTS ❞
SNAKES
& LADDERS
A top choice for
smaller spaces,
this versatile lean-to SLIDE
offers generous
storage with a dainty
AND GLIDE
Giving Victorian libraries
footprint. Move this
a run for their money,
wall-loving champ
this modern adaptation
from room to room as
blends the best of
your needs evolve.
past and present. Create
Ladder bookcase
an artful display of your
in White oiled ash,
books across its
£2,220, Autoban
whopping 15 shelves.
at Monologue
Hampsey bookcase
FEATURE HOLLY PHILLIPS

with ladder, £1,867,

Shropshire Design

104 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 AWA R D -W I N N I N G R I V E R C RU I S E S

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• Return flights from a choice of regional airports or Amsterdam, Cologne & the Best of Holland & Flanders 8 days £1,199pp
standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London Rhine & Moselle 8 days £1,559pp
St Pancras
The Douro, Porto & Salamanca 8 days £1,639pp
• Return rail connections on selected dates and cruises
from over 50 regional stations (supplements may apply) The Seine, Paris & Normandy 8 days £1,559pp

• The services of our experienced cruise director Burgundy, the River Rhone & Provence 8 days £1,489pp
and concierge Rhine Cruise to Switzerland 8 days £1,889pp
Departures from March to November 2021 Vienna, Bohemia & the Treasures of the Danube 8 days £1,389pp

To book or request a brochure, call 01283 523454 or visit cohriviera.co.uk

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images
used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430,
a company wholly independent of Country Homes & Interiors, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print. *Book by 28th February, 2021.
Exclusions apply, offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotions. For full T&Cs please visit website for details.
 Brilliant
BATH
MATERIALS
FROM MODERN METHODS OF MAKING TO
TIME-HONOURED DESIGNS, THESE ARE THE TUBS
WE CAN’T WAIT TO TAKE A RELAXING DIP INTO…

Imperium bateau
bath, from £2,238, The
Albion Bath Company

UNIQUE ISO-ENAMEL
The best of both worlds, Albion Bath’s Iso-enamel material – a self-
reinforced, cast-stone resin and mineral mixture – was invented to mimic
the appearance of traditional cast iron, without the inherent drawbacks.
‘Iso-enamel baths weigh a third of the amount of an equivalent
cast-iron bath, so there’s no need to reinforce your floors or hire a Vigore bath, £2,799,
team to lift one into your home,’ says Phil Etherden, managing director Clearwater
of The Albion Bath Company.

106 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 ROOM ELEMENTS

SPA-LIKE STONE
Feeling indulgent? Choosing a
bath made from marble, granite or
travertine can take your bathroom to
a new level of luxury. Natural stone
is commonly used in spas and can
retain heat for a long period of time,
allowing you longer to relax and
unwind. Real statement pieces, the
cost of these types of baths can vary
depending on the material used.
Consider it an investment that will last
for years to come, as they won’t crack
like some acrylic designs can over time.
Bath in Farrow & Ball’s
Hague Blue, from
£3,498; Samuel Heath
Landmark Pure bath
shower mixer, price on

❝ request, both CP Hart

VERSATILE ACRYLIC
Acrylic baths are a popular option these days,
and for good reason, too. ‘They are significantly
lighter than baths made of other materials,
such as stone resin or cast iron, which makes

BARRIE CUTCHIE,
❞ them simpler to move and place,’ says Yousef
Mansuri, head of design at CP Hart. ‘Acrylic is
non-porous and of solid durability, although
DESIGN DIRECTOR AT BC DESIGNS
it can be prone to warping over time.’

Tay bath, from £3,570;

Classic bath & shower
mixer with Mull Heads,
from £2,448, both
Drummonds

TRADITIONAL CAST IRON

Once upon a time almost all baths were
made from cast iron. ‘One thing that you do
need to consider before buying a cast iron
bath,’ says James Lentaigne, creative director
at Drummonds, ‘is that the area where you
plan to locate it is strong enough to bear not
just the weight of the bath when empty, but
also when it’s full of water.’

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 107

 ECO-FRIENDLY LUCITE
Lucite is a type of acrylic material that is 100% recyclable, making it an
increasingly popular choice for environmentally conscious homeowners
and bathroom designers alike. It’s hard-wearing, non-slip make-up is
both scratch- and chemical-resistant, which is useful for busy households,
and its naturally gleaming finish can be painted easily in a colour of your
choice to suit any bathroom scheme.

River back-to-wall
bath in Tangerine,
from £1,695, Water
Baths of Ashbourne

3 O F T HE B E ST BATH FILLERS
Complete your bathroom look with a classic piece of brassware
FEATURE YVETTE MURRELL PHOTOGRAPHS (UNIQUE
ISO-ENAMEL) LITTLE GREENE

1. Claremont Regent bath shower mixer in Gold, £699, Burlington Omnia bath, from
2. Invincible 7860 deck-mounted exposed bath filler, around £460, Swadling Brassware £2,940, BC Designs
3. Bath filler on standpipes with floorplate, £1,920, Catchpole & Rye

108 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 ROOM ELEMENTS

Need to know...
fitting your bath
■ START BY MEASURING UP The standard size
of most baths is around 1700x700mm,

❝ though some models do come in smaller

sizes. If space allows, you could also opt for
a larger design for a more indulgent soak.
■ CHOOSE BETWEEN FREE-STANDING AND
FITTED Which one you choose will depend on
I the size of your space and how you intend to
use it. If you need it to have an overhead
shower, then a fitted design is more practical.
■ CONSIDER THE WEIGHT Find out how much
a bathtub weighs before you buy, as you may
need to call in the professionals to ensure
your home is structurally sound. This could
mean having your flooring reinforced if

YOUSEF MANSURI,
❞ you go for a cast-iron or stone design –
particularly if it is an older property.

HEAD OF DESIGN AT CP HART ■ BEAR BRASSWARE IN MIND The bath you

choose will determine what type of taps can
go with it. Some designs have holes ready for
single or mixer taps, but for others you will
need to source wall-mounted or free-standing
taps. Check if you need to buy wastes,
overflows and feet separately, too.

The copper bateau with

Verdigris exterior and
bopper interior, £6,000,
Catchpole & Rye

SLEEK SOLID SURFACING

Unaffected by fluctuating moisture
ingression and humidity, Cian is
a patented solid surface from BC CLEANLY COPPER
Designs made from an advanced Copper has been in use for centuries thanks
blend of acrylic modified polyester to its antibacterial properties, and the
resin and mineral fillers. And while material is also good at retaining heat,
this innovative technology is relatively making it an ideal option for a bath. It tends
new, you can still achieve a classic to develop a patina naturally over time,
look by choosing a polished finish though most baths will be finished in a
in a colour of your choice and a protective lacquer. For those who like this
more traditionally shaped bathtub antique finish, you can also buy bathtubs with
to fit in with your country-style home. an aged look already applied to the exterior.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 109

HOME TECH

Buy the best...

EASY-BREEZY
HOME AIR PURIFIER
POOR AIR QUALITY AFFECTS OUR HEALTH AND CAN WORSEN ALLERGY
AND ASTHMA SYMPTOMS. BREATHE DEEPLY AGAIN WITH AN AIR PURIFIER

BEST FOR…
ALL-YEAR COMFORT
Pure hot + cool air purifier, £550, Dyson
This versatile, Alexa-compatible design is
a heater, cooling fan and an air purifier, making
it great for year-round use. It automatically
analyses the quality of the air in the room and
gives you a real-time report on the built-in
LCD screen, or via the Dyson app. The glass
HEPA filter captures 99.95% of allergens and
pollutants, while the Air Multiplier technology
smoothly circulates purified air.

BEST FOR…
SMALL SPACES
MeacoClean CA-HEPA 76x5,
£199.99, Meaco
A Wi-Fi-connected, app-controllable air
purifier without an exorbitant asking price.
Relatively compact and discreet, it draws in
dirty air from all sides and cleans using a H11
Blue Pure Fan removes HEPA filter that removes 95% harmful particles
99% of airborne dust from the air. We also like the traffic light system
and pollen in just 20 that changes colour according to the air quality.
minutes, £249,
Breathing Space

BEST FOR…
n HOW DO THEY WORK? Based around a fan and QUIET CLEANING
IonFlow 2.0 Signature, £469, LightAir
a filter – often made from paper or fibreglass – most More of a sculpture than a small appliance, this
purifiers suck dirty air through them causing the pollutants Scandinavian design can clean an area up to
and particles to be captured, then clean air is pushed 50sq m in almost total silence. It uses ionising
back out into the room. These filters generally need technology to negatively charge the pollutant
replacing every few months to maintain efficiency. Other particles in the air, making them stick to the
collector, instead of remaining airborne. It
designs use ionisers to help attract particles — negative works just like a magnet for air pollution and
ions bond to dust particles and remove them from the air. can greatly improve the atmosphere for those
who have asthma and allergies.
n DO I REALLY NEED ONE? While we rightly hear
a lot about the harmful effects of outside air pollution,
indoor air can be five times as dirty, and this is one of the BEST FOR…
leading causes for respiratory complaints. An air purifier VALUE
will help eliminate these airborne nasties, which could Pure Air 300, £229, Vax
be of huge benefit if you suffer from allergies, have Especially efficient at removing smoke and
pollen, this large white cylinder offers great
breathing issues or just dread hay fever season.
air purification for rooms up to 120sq m and
FEATURE CHRIS HASLAM

n CAN I IMPROVE AIR QUALITY WITHOUT ONE? has been rated to remove 99.97% of harmful
particles as small as 0.3 microns. While it lacks
Whenever possible, open windows and create a through-
smart features, you do get five speed settings
draft to remove pollutants and vacuum regularly with a and a choice of five timers, as well as a clever
cleaner that has a HEPA filter. Candles, open fires and dust sensor light that even lets you see the
smoking cause pollutants, so keep these to a minimum. dust particles being sucked in and cleaned.

110 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

The integrated fridge-

freezer is topped with
shelves filled with
wine triangles for
storing bottles

PROJECT
PROFILE

Owners Wendy Walker

and Thomas French live here
with their children Ruby, nine,
Sidney, eight, and Frank, one.

Warm
House A 450-year-old
four-bedroom farmhouse
in West Yorkshire.
Project A new kitchen
as part of a whole house

WELCOME
renovation.
Kitchen size 6x4m.
Designer Leigh Topping,
designer, Drew Forsyth & Co.
Cabinetry Classic
Chamfer kitchen in Farrow &
Ball Preference Red and Paean
Black, by Drew Forsyth & Co.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 111

 These bifold doors
open to reveal dark
oiled oak shelves

The antiqued mirror

splashback reflects
natural light, increasing
the sense of space
in the room

L ooking across the valley to the Yorkshire

moors beyond, Wendy Walker and Thomas
French knew that their decision to buy the
dilapidated farmhouse was right. ‘It is the
most beautiful spot,’ says Wendy. ‘We both knew it was
where we wanted to spend the rest of our lives.’
Constructed of huge pieces of dressed Yorkshire
a room that was suitable for modern family life with
traditional cabinetry that would sit comfortably in a
Tudor house,’ explains Wendy, who approached local
company Drew Forsyth & Co, known for its bespoke,
hand-crafted kitchens. The furniture was made to fit the
uneven walls perfectly, maximise storage and work
surface, and fit family-size appliances. The colour
gritstone, the ancient Yeoman Clothiers farmhouse, scheme was chosen by Wendy. ‘I love the striking, bold
dating back to 1575, had not been lived in for 10 years colours because they are also rich and harmonious, and
and its most recent renovations were made in the unlike anything I had seen used previously,’ she says.
1960s. Wendy, a mental health nurse and care co- They obtained planning permission to add a new
ordinator, and Thomas, director of ETEC Escalators, stone mullioned window to introduce more natural light
began a major renovation of the listed property. into the room. ‘We were able to create an inviting
This included wheeling barrow after barrow of clay seating area with breakfast table, positioned for far-
outside the house as they excavated the floor to prepare reaching views across the valley,’ says Wendy.
it for underfloor heating. ‘It was the most laborious job,’ With three children – and a fourth on the way – Wendy
says Wendy, ‘but we preferred to keep modern is often preoccupied with prepping family meals. ‘But
additions, such as radiators, to a minimum.’ when I stop and reflect, I realise how far we have come
When it came to the gloomy, dated kitchen, they took from the days of mud and hard work and appreciate our
an equally sympathetic approach. ‘We wanted to create kitchen all the more – it’s just how I want it to be,’ she says.

112 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

An oak tray slides

neatly into its own
slot on the cook’s table

Bifold doors here allow

unobstructed access to
the breakfast cupboard,
which contains sockets
for small appliances

BREAKFAST
TABLE AND
BENCH
CABINETRY
COOKS TABLE
COOKER

THE LAYOUT
The range cooker is built into a faux chimney breast.
Flanked by an integrated fridge-freezer on one side,
breakfast cupboard on the other, the sink is close by.
A larder cupboard is opposite, with cook’s table as a
bridge between the two sides of the room. A breakfast
table with built-in seating completes the design.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 113

 An overhang at one
end of the cook’s table
provides space to pull
up a bar stool

1 COOK’S TABLE
‘In a slender space, a narrow
island tends to look stingy and as
if it might topple over,’ explains
Drew Forsyth & Co designer
Leigh Topping. ‘A cook’s table,
however, with light passing
through its base, looks much
more balanced.’ Finished with
WARM WELCOME chunky, traditional-style legs, this

3
sturdy table has a granite top to

CLEVER DESIGN
offer preparation and serving
space. It also includes drawers, a
fitted oak chopping board and

SOLUTIONS tray, with a slatted base for baskets

and pots. ‘It makes a fantastic,
multi-functional centrepiece in
the room,’ says Wendy.

114 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 K I TC H E N P R OJ E CT

2 COLOUR
‘I went to the stone yard to pick the granite for the
worktops as my starting point,’ says Wendy, who chose
The deep raspberry and
rich red-based black of
the cabinets create a
natural sense of warmth
a stone to complement the limestone floor. She echoed
the granite’s flecks of deep purple and burgundy in the
colours she chose to paint the cabinetry, working with
Leigh to create a balance of hues in the space. ‘I didn’t
want to play it safe,’ she explains. ‘It is our family home,
so why not choose something as wild and personal as
we want?’ The rich colours enhance the inviting feel of
the room, offset by a soft, warm neutral used for the walls.

3 BREAKFAST AREA
The old kitchen didn’t include space for the family
to gather for meals, something that Wendy and Thomas
wanted to resolve. ‘Given the age, character and listed
status of the house, we couldn’t enlarge the room,’
explains Wendy. Instead, they were able to include a
bespoke circular table underneath the new window to
make a light-filled spot, complete with fitted booth seating.
The seats can be lifted to reveal storage, while open
shelves at each end are perfect for recipe books.

THE DETAILS
CABINETRY
Bespoke Classic Chamfer kitchen with
bespoke dining table and bench seating.
Kitchen cabinetry, from £20,000, Drew
Forsyth & Co; in Preference Red and
Paean Black estate eggshell, £64 for
2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

SURFACES
Similar Seagrass granite worktops and
upstands, from £5,000; similar antiqued
mirror splashback, from £500; both
Drew Forsyth & Co. Bayonne Provence
limestone floor tiles, from £70.80m sq,
Mandarin Stone, are a match. Walls in
Jitney modern emulsion, £49.95 for
2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

APPLIANCES
Elise 110 dual fuel range cooker in Black,
£2,449; FM900 built-in extractor, £695,
is similar, both Rangemaster. RS90A1
integrated French door fridge-freezer,
£3,435, Fisher & Paykel. WS19SDX wine
cooler, £49, Montpellier. S513G60X0G
fully integrated dishwasher, £518, Neff.
RHFM2363S microwave, £125, Russell
Hobbs, is similar
FEATURE AMELIA THORPE PHOTOGRAPHS PAUL CRAIG

SINKS & TAPS

Pronteau Prostyle 3-in-1 tap, £749,
Abode. Kubus Fraganite undermounted
sink, £416, Franke

ACCESSORIES
Vinny bar stool, £99, Cult Furniture, is
a match. Evedal pendant light (above
cook’s table), £115, Ikea. Garcia
pendant light (above breakfast table),
£96.10, ManoMano
Bench seating, painted
to match the kitchen
cabinetry, curves around
the circular oak-topped
breakfast table

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 115

 Super
P la nt
Po w e r e d

January. Time for getting into healthy habits.

But turning over a new leaf is easier than you
think with Baxters’ Plant Based range of soups.
Super healthy ingredients in some super global
inspired flavour combinations. 2021…sorted.
 IN A COUNTRY KITCHEN

COOKS’ NOTES
That’s the (0%) spirit
If you want the tipple without the totter, these
no-alcohol spirit alternatives are just the ticket

• Warner’s Juniper Double

Dry 0% Botanic Garden Spirit MINDFUL BAKING
0% ABV, 50cl, £18, M&S Bread Therapy (£12.99, Yellow Kite), is an
Crafted with flavour in mind, this
ode to the feel-good power of artisan bread.
gin-like spirit is aromatic with hints
of herbs and spice. It’s beautiful It’s not your usual cookbook – author Pauline
served with tonic water and Beaumont is a mental health professional and has
garnished with an orange slice.
explored why baking bread can be so good for an
• Feragaia individual’s wellbeing. The book is full of insight for
0% ABV, 50cl, £24.95, feragaia.com
novice bakers, and for those who already love to bake,
Meaning wild earth in Latin,
Feragaia combines 14 land it’s sure to help you feel more connected to your craft.
and sea botanicals to create
a vermouth-type, alcohol-free
spirit. It’s citrussy
with a fiery finish
and is a gorgeous, FROM LEBANON,
warm amber colour.
WITH LOVE
• Lyre’s Amaretti On the Lebanese side of the snow-
0% ABV, 700ml, £23.50, capped peaks of Mount Hermon grow
FEATURE SAMUEL GOLDSMITH

lyres.co.uk native Souri and Balade olives. A selection

The perfect digestif for of these, organically grown on a single
a cold winter evening. Full estate, are farmed, hand-picked and
of the flavour of almonds cold-extracted to make Haramoun Olive
with a hit of spice and vanilla. Oil (500ml, £15.95, haramoun.co.uk).
Serve over ice or combine With a balance of fruity, bitter almond
with lemon juice and bitters and warm pepper flavours, it’s wonderful
to replicate an Amaretto sour. drizzled over salad or fish.

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 117

 OVEN-BAKED
LENTIL SOUP WITH
GREENS >

Wholesome, hearty
& HOME-GROWN
THE FAMOUS GARDENS AT GREAT DIXTER ARE THE SOURCE OF THE
RECIPES – AND INGREDIENTS – FOR THESE SATISFYING DISHES, THE
PERFECT ANTIDOTE TO A CHILLY FEBRUARY DAY
 G O O D F O O D, G O O D T I M E S

PAPER-BAKED TROUT
WITH HERBS >

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 119

G O O D F O O D, G O O D T I M E S

OVEN-BAKED LENTIL SOUP PAPER-BAKED TROUT

WITH GREENS WITH HERBS
Make a big batch of this simple, delicious soup; the This is a great way to cook trout; wrapping the fish
flavours will deepen the longer it is left. You can in newspaper stops it drying out, and when you
swap in different ingredients depending on your open the parcel, the skin will come away neatly
mood and the season – kale, Swiss chard or along with the paper. You can adapt this recipe
perpetual spinach, or even parsley (stems and all) throughout the year, using whichever herbs happen
are all great additions. to be at their peak.

SERVES 6-8 SERVES 4

2ltr chicken or 2 bay leaves 4 x 350g rainbow trout Herbs (lemon thyme,
vegetable stock 1½tsp ground cumin (or brown trout if you parsley, dill and fennel
225g dried yellow ½tsp salt are lucky enough to get tops all work well)
split peas 1tsp pepper hold of them), gutted Lemon slices
225g dried green or Large bunch seasonal and cleaned but with Salt and pepper
brown lentils greens (about 250g), tail and head intact
4 carrots, scrubbed, stripped away from any
trimmed and chopped large stems, then sliced 1 Preheat the oven to 190C/Gas 5.
into 2.5cm pieces Chopped herbs, 2 Wash the trout thoroughly and dry the
4 celery stalks, chopped to garnish inside of each fish with paper towels but leave
into 2.5cm pieces Crusty bread and the outside moist. Lightly season with salt and
1 leek, chopped into butter, to serve pepper inside the gut cavity, then fill the cavity
2.5cm pieces (optional) of each fish with a handful of fresh herbs and a
few halved lemon slices.
1 Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4. 3 For each trout, you will need one double-
2 Put the stock, dried yellow split peas and page sheet of a tabloid newspaper. Lay the
lentils, vegetables, bay leaves, cumin, salt and sheet in portrait position and place the fish
pepper into a large heavy casserole dish and near the bottom of the page, with the open
stir to combine. Cover and bake in the oven side towards you. Take the bottom of the
for 1hr, or until the peas and lentils are tender. sheet and wrap it up over the open side and
3 Remove from the oven and discard the fold in the sides so that they align with the
bay leaves. length of the fish. Roll the fish up carefully in
4 Stir through the seasonal greens until the paper. If the paper tears too much and you
wilted. Just before serving, garnish with can see the fish through the wrap, start again.
chopped herbs, then ladle the soup into You may want to put a small arrow on the
warmed soup plates and serve with bread head end of each package to remind you on
and butter, if desired. which side of the package the gut cavity is.
4 Place the wrapped fish side by side on a
baking sheet and bake for about 25 mins
(times will vary slightly depending on the size
of your fish).
5 Once baked, put each wrapped fish on a
plate. With a pair of scissors, cut the
newspaper package open along the gut cavity
side of the fish and then make cuts up towards
the gills and across the bottom of tail. Take
hold of the cut paper and the skin of the fish
and gently peel back so that the flesh is exposed,
and the head and the tail remain wrapped.
6 If the skin does not peel away from the fish
easily, return the wrapped fish to the oven for
5 mins more, then try again.

120 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

FENNEL, AUBERGINE
AND ARTICHOKE
CAPONATA >
G O O D F O O D, G O O D T I M E S

FENNEL, AUBERGINE AND BAKED APRICOTS WITH

ARTICHOKE CAPONATA BAY AND HONEY
Caponata is a great test of culinary ingenuity! You Baking apricots intensifies the flavour and will
can make this versatile dish with fresh vegetables if bring the best out of any fruit that is not quite
you have them, or preserved if you don’t, and serve perfectly ripe. The combination of spices in this
it as a vegetarian main course with some good syrup accentuates different aspects of the apricot’s
bread, for lunch with an egg on top or as a side dish flavour – herbal and even a little spicy. Try them
to accompany any roasted or grilled meat or fish. with a scoop of good-quality vanilla ice-cream or
double cream. This recipe would also work well
SERVES 4 with fresh peaches.

4tbsp rapeseed oil 3 tomatoes, diced SERVES 4-6

½ onion, finely chopped 4tbsp canned chopped
4 globe artichokes (or tomatoes 100g runny honey saffron threads
200g artichoke hearts 4tbsp red wine vinegar 5 cardamom pods, 1tsp coarse sea salt
in olive oil, drained) 2tbsp capers, drained cracked opened 3 small bay leaves
Lemon juice, to prevent and rinsed Generous pinch of 10 apricots
discolouration (if using 2tbsp toasted pumpkin
fresh artichokes) seeds 1 Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4.
2 garlic cloves, finely 1tbsp finely chopped 2 Put the honey, 100ml water, the cardamom
chopped basil pods, saffron, salt and bay leaves into a small
2 spring onions, chopped 1tbsp finely chopped pan. Place over a medium heat and cook until
1 small fennel bulb, flat-leaf parsley the mixture comes to a boil. Simmer gently for
trimmed and thinly 1tbsp finely chopped 3 mins and then remove from the heat.
sliced lemon thyme 3 Place the whole apricots in a small baking
1 aubergine, peeled Salt and pepper dish big enough to hold the apricots quite
and diced into Toasted bread, to serve snugly – you don’t want too much space
1.5cm cubes between them. Pour over the honey mixture,
using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to
1 Heat the oil in a frying pan over a medium scrape out any saffron threads that have stuck
heat. Add the onion, cover and leave for 10 to the side of the pan.
mins to sweat down, stirring every so often. 4 Roast the apricots in the oven for 40 mins,
2 Meanwhile, prepare the globe artichokes, if removing them to baste and turn every so
using. Remove the leaves until only the often, or until they are very soft, but still hold
innermost leaves and hearts remain. Trim the their shape.
stems and hard leaf remnants around the 5 Remove from the heat and either serve
bottoms, and use a vegetable peeler to peel immediately, or set aside until cool and then
the stems, removing the tough exterior. store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Chop the hearts in half and use a spoon to
remove the hairy chokes. Cut in half again so
FEATURE SAMUEL GOLDSMITH PHOTOGRAPHS ANDREW MONTGOMERY

you are left with quarters of artichoke heart.

3 If you are not using them immediately, rub
with a little lemon juice to stop discolouration.
4 Add the garlic, spring onions, fennel,
aubergine, tomatoes, artichoke hearts, vinegar,
capers and pumpkin seeds to the frying pan
Grow Fruit and
with the onion, cover and simmer for 10 mins, Vegetables in Pots:
or until all the vegetables are tender. Planting Advice
5 Add the herbs and cook, uncovered, for & Recipes from
another 5 mins to allow the flavours to Great Dixter by
Aaron Bertelsen is
combine. Season with salt and pepper and
published by Phaidon
serve warm or at room temperature, spooned – photography by
over toasted bread. Andrew Montgomery

122 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 BAKED APRICOTS
WITH BAY AND HONEY
 Oak is both a natural
and sympathetic
material and is often
a key choice for
extending period
properties, as shown by
this Prime Oak project

All you need to knowÉ

EXTENSIONS
A WELL-DESIGNED EXTENSION WILL ADD SPACE, STYLE AND VALUE
TO YOUR COUNTRY HOME. HERE’S OUR GUIDE TO GETTING IT RIGHT…
124 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS
 R E N O V AT I O N G U I D E

Brick or stone
extensions can blend
seamlessly with the
original parts of the
property, so that the
character of the house
is maintained

B
esides boosting your past work or talk to the firm’s
home’s floor space, an previous clients before making
extension can help pave your decision. Get it right and you’ll
the way for a reconfigured enhance the look and feel of your
layout that complements your property, increase its value and
lifestyle. But there’s a lot to consider create additional living space.
before going full steam ahead with
an extension project, so before HOW DO I DECIDE WHICH
anything else you should identify TYPE OF EXTENSION TO BUILD?
your needs. Do you need a bigger The most common types of
Done well, glass
extensions on period kitchen or living space? A separate extensions are rear, side-returns,
properties can add a bedroom or a laundry room? Once wrap-arounds and two-storey
real, yet sympathetic, you’ve highlighted the key functions designs. What you can do to your
style statement you want from your extension, the property will largely be determined
design process can begin and you by the size and location of your
can decide what type of extension house, the extent of your budget,
best suits your requirements, as and any planning restrictions.
well as your budget.
Taking into consideration the DO I NEED AN ARCHITECT?
age and style of your country While it isn’t essential to bring a
property is important, so that your professional on board, a designer’s
new extension will complement vision will help you make the most
the existing structure. Work closely of the space you have available.
alongside architects and builders Their insight on positioning,
with experience on similar projects, structural systems and building
and always ask to see examples of materials can make a huge >

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 125

 A single rear extension is
one of the most popular
choices, as they tend
to be the most straight-
forward in design

The pitched roof of this

bespoke oak-framed
extension by Oakwrights
creates a vaulted, airy
space inside

difference. An architect’s knowledge

and experience can prove
invaluable when dealing with listed
buildings, or ensuring your new
design is sympathetic to the period
of your property. Having an expert
involved can also help when
The subtle ‘Verdi’
construction begins – particularly colour selected for this
if you encounter any unforeseen Montpelier Joinery
issues once you’ve broken ground. project brings a sense
of calm to the space
DO I NEED PLANNING
PERMISSION?
Many extension schemes can as they will be aware of local success. Be aware, if you’re creating
be achieved under permitted planning policy. It can also help a new shared boundary wall or
development rights, but anything to find similar extensions in your excavating within 3m of your
that’s pushing the boundaries in area, as these can serve as a neighbour’s house, you’ll need
terms of design is likely to require precedent for your project. to send them a party wall notice.
formal consent from your local
authority. Likewise, if you live in WHAT ABOUT MY NEIGHBOURS? WHAT MATERIALS SHOULD
a conservation area or area of Once your design concept has been I CONSIDER?
outstanding natural beauty, you drawn up, it’s courteous to touch Think about whether you want the
will need planning permission to base with neighbours and keep extension to blend in with the rest
go ahead. Working with an architect them informed. Should you need of the property, or if you want to
or planning consultant can increase planning consent, their support make more of a statement. Oak-
your chances of success at this stage could be crucial for the scheme’s framed extensions suit country-style

126 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 R E N O V AT I O N G U I D E

This traditional-style
bespoke kitchen design
by Martin Moore,
starting at £35,000, sits
within a light-filled rear
extension thanks to the
full-length sliding glass
doors and skylight

homes aesthetically and can be how they are constructed, you allowing you to add another
sustainably sourced, though you can lose a lot of light in the bedroom or bathroom upstairs, as
will need to hire contractors who middle rooms of your house. well as more space on the ground
specialise in this type of design. Side-return extensions are floor. However, they will require full
Bricks and stone are also popular commonly seen on terraces or planning permission, which can
if you are looking to match with the semi-detached houses, as they be difficult to obtain if the design
existing property, whereas glass can make use of the unused side drastically changes the view
designs make a striking statement. passage alongside the property. or impacts neighbours.
They are generally small projects
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? so don’t cost as much as other types. HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
It vastly depends on the size of the A wraparound extension adds As a guide, you should set aside
build, though as a guide you could space to both the rear and sides of between £1,100 and £1,300sq m
expect a straightforward single rear your property, so can substantially for small, single-storey schemes, and
extension to take around three-to- increase the square footage to between £1,300 and £1,500sq m for
four months. You will also need to your home. By their nature, these two-storey extensions. Allow at least
PHOTOGRAPHS POLLY ELTES, JONATHAN GOOCH

factor in the design and planning are extensive, costly, projects that £2,500sq m for large-scale projects
stage, as well as lead times for create a lot of disruption. or those featuring high-spec
commissioning joinery. Two-storey extensions provide materials. It’s also a sensible idea to
you with more space overall, ring-fence a 10% contingency fund.
WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS

Sourcebook
FEATURE YVETTE MURRELL

OF DIFFERENT EXTENSIONS?
Rear extensions are a good option
Our pick of extensions experts
if you have enough garden space
n For bespoke oak-framed buildings Oakwrights, oakwrights.co.uk n For seamless
to spread into and are popular for organic structures Prime Oak, primeoak.co.uk n For best of British Julius Bahn,
those looking to create an open- juliusbahn.co.uk n For premium timber designs and bifolding doors Montpelier Joinery,
plan living space. Depending on montpelierjoinery.com n For more oak-framed designs Border Oak, borderoak.com

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 127

 FIRE & FROST
Flaming red and gold stems contrast spectacularly
with carpets of frosty snowdrops in Jackie and
John Copping’s cottage garden in Essex
 ESSEX GARDEN

Sunrise over the

garden in winter, with
silver birch trees and
flowering Viburnum
bodnantense

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 129

 Wooden sleepers mark a
curving grassy path flanked
by snowdrops, hellebores and
red dogwood winter stems

T he first encounter with John and Jackie Copping’s

garden presents a series of beckoning paths that
wander idly through woodland, past borders, to linger
in shady retreats or sunlit spaces. ‘I like things to flow —
after all, there’s no such thing as a straight line in nature,’ says Jackie.
Her concept is based on the idea of a journey, which is depicted
through the use of paths, some of which are clear, while others are
more obscure. ‘I wanted the garden to be meaningful — everything
has a deeper connection,’ she explains. Beneath a great willow lies
a grass spiral cut into the turf in ever-decreasing circles. ‘Following
the path, without needing to think where you are going, provides
an opportunity for thoughts to emerge,’ she explains, ‘and, on
AT HOME WITH. .. reaching the touchstone in the middle, you can stop and reflect.’
While the paths, created from gravel, mown grass, bark, wood
Owners John and Jackie Copping, or stepping stones, form the garden’s structure, it is the planted
a retired counsellor and textile artist. beds and layout that create points of interest along the way.
House Longyard Cottage, dating Twenty-five years since the couple moved in, little of the original
from the 1740s, in Nazeing, Essex. planting survives save an old apple tree, several birches and
Features A large garden with willows in the front garden. Today, it is John and Jackie’s seven
broad lawns shaded in summer by
grandchildren who frequent the garden, each new birth
willows, birches and beeches, and
home to countless naturalised celebrated with the planting of a Betula albosinensis ‘Fascination’,
snowdrops in winter. The borders creating a small spinney near the driveway.
provide colour every season. The garden started to take shape when John meticulously shaved
Soil Clay sub-soil, but having away the soil around the sides of the house to create gentle,
been worked over a few sloping paths in place of pre-existing steps. ‘We wanted to create
centuries, now a neutral loam. a smooth, unbroken transition from one area to another,’ she says.
Aspect Front garden faces east. Once the paths were laid, the borders fell into place as part of
the journey through the garden. Each one has evolved according >

130 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 ESSEX GARDEN

❝ THE BRICK
FOLLY IS OPEN TO
THE ELEMENTS,
YET PROTECTED
FROM THE WIND.
IT WAS INTENDED
AS A PEACEFUL
PLACE TO SIT
QUIETLY, AND STIRS
THE SENSES ❞

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 131

 A sunlit winter garden with
silver birch trees, box balls
and naturalised snowdrops
surrounding a lawn with
decorative spiral design CH&I loves...
GROWING
SNOWDROPS
• Available in single or double
flowers, every one of 1,500+
to its conditions — shady, sunny, dry or wet. In winter, there are named cultivars has distinctive
markings in green or yellow
carpets of snowdrops naturalised in the lawns, while the borders
on the inner or outer petals.
are filled with coloured stems, hellebores, tiny reticulata irises and
• Try Galanthus G. ‘S. Arnott’ which
fragrant plants — witch hazels, viburnums and winter jasmine. has a great scent, multiplies
‘The strength of this garden in winter is its structure,’ she adds. quickly and is relatively disease
Jackie’s skill as a textile artist manifests in the clever use of resistant; or Galanthus ‘Straffan’
colours and textures to create dynamic planting schemes in which that bears two flowers per bulb.
individual plants come to the fore through the seasons. In spring, • Buy them in the green – they
the garden becomes increasingly enclosed as leaves unfurl on establish better, and tend not to
be scrubbed up by squirrels.
limes, blackthorn, parrotia, willow and beech. Meanwhile, the
woodland fills out with forget-me-nots, cow parsley and buttercups. • Leaving the bulbs until the
foliage has completely died down
‘I love the relaxed looseness of the primroses and long grasses, allows them to absorb nutrients
although John would prefer more control.’ Forget-me-nots are and replenish for the next year.
a staple, filling bare gaps throughout the year. ‘They’re happy, • To avoid the risk of virus
undemanding plants that then make great compost,’ she says. infection, only buy or swap bulbs
Jackie is especially drawn to the intense colour of plants. Summer from trusted sources.
heralds a succession of oriental poppies, ‘Annabelle’ hydrangeas, • Plant twice as deep as the bulb is
hardy geraniums, verbenas, alchemilla and heleniums. Then, come long, and 5cm apart in well-drained
soil with added grit and organic
winter, it is the coppery red flowers of witch hazel ‘Diane’, flaming
matter such as rotted leaf mould.
stems of Cornus ‘Midwinter Fire’ or rich pink clusters on Viburnum
• Snowdrops won’t thrive beneath
bodnantense that stand out on the dullest day. However, the true evergreens, so plant in light, sheltered
stars of the show are the snowdrops that flower in the lawns. positions with deciduous plants.
The first snowdrops came from a neighbour. ‘Her garden was a • Good planting companions
mass of snowdrops, and she told us to help ourselves, so we planted include winter aconites, Crocus
them “in the green” in the front garden,’ says Jackie. Disappointingly, sieberi, Cyclamen coum, species
squirrels ate all but one, so the next year snowdrops were planted hellebores, and reticulata irises.
in the back garden where they readily established, spreading year >

132 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 ESSEX GARDEN

❝A neighbour’s garden was

a mass of snowdrops, and she told us
to help ourselves. Symbolising hope
and rebirth, they are especially
pertinent right now❞
Flanking a wooden deck is
Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter
Fire’, dogwood, a deciduous
shrub that loses its leaves
in winter to reveal brilliant,
flame coloured stems
 A frosty country garden
with a rustic wooden
dining set in front of a
summerhouse and bed
planted with brilliant red
winter stems of dogwood

on year. ‘Symbolising hope and rebirth, snowdrops are especially

ON OUR pertinent in light of the coronavirus epidemic’, says Jackie.
DOORSTEP. . . Being at the summit of a hill, the garden is windy, but Jackie
finds the sound and sight of wind moving trees exhilarating.
Visit... Silver Birches, Quendon ‘I particularly love to see and hear the wind rustling the Miscanthus
Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex giganteus — it has a majestic feel as it bends and sways,’ says
EN9 1LG For opening times Jackie. Cutting this towering ornamental grass back each winter
see ngs.org.uk is a labour of love, but seeing the stripped, golden stems shining
Go for a meal at... ‘King in a wintry sun more than compensates. Growing well over two
Harold’s Head in Nazeing, which
metres tall, the line of Miscanthus giganteus separates the patio
serves fresh, home-cooked food
(newkingharoldshead.co.uk).’ area from the driveway, forming a dense leafy screen in summer.
Shop atÉ Matthew’s Plants,
Originally the patio was shaded by one of two centenarian
Hadley Nurseries, Roydon, walnut trees. ‘Then, without warning, one of them fell down in front
is a pleasure to visit with of my eyes,’ explains Jackie. The walnut lives on as slices of trunk,
very knowledgeable staff incorporated into paths around the garden, or tucked away as
(matthewsplants.co.uk).’ havens for insects. Inevitably, they are also home to slugs and snails,
a constant challenge. ‘And the occasional deer takes the heads off
whatever they fancy, but it’s such a privilege to see them in the
garden,’ she adds. A compost heap is tucked away in a shady corner,
generating as much as they need to regularly mulch the borders.
Over the years, Jackie and John have absorbed influence from
many people and their gardens, but she especially recalls the
Garden of Cosmic Speculation created by Charles Jencks in
Scotland. ‘It felt like our own garden, but on a much larger scale,
and reminded me not to lose sight of our concept.’
John and Jackie plant to open the garden in aid of the National
Garden Scheme on Valentine’s Day. Visit ngs.org.uk

134 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 ESSEX GARDEN

1 2 3

Jackie and John’s

winter marvels
1 Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple
Stem’, sweet box, an evergreen shrub.
2 Iris reticulata ‘Katharine Hodgkin’ is a
distinctive hybrid. Flowers from January.
3 Viburnum bodnantense, a deciduous
shrub bearing pink flowers from January.
4 Jasminum nudiflorum, winter jasmine, a
fragrant shrub that flowers in midwinter.
5 Galanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus ‘Flore Pleno’,
a double snowdrop, flowering from February.
6 Helleborus ericsmithii, hellebore, an
evergreen with pink flowers, from February.
7 Bergenia cordifolia, elephants ears,
spikes of pink flowers from February.
8 Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’,
4 dogwood, with flame-coloured stems. 5
FEATURE AND PHOTOGRAPHS NICOLA STOCKEN

6 7 8

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 135

 Live Life Well
HEALTH, HAPPINESS, FASHION, TRAVEL, PETS, PASTIMES
AND OTHER THINGS TO MAKE LIFE LOVELY

THINGS TO LEARN,
SEE & DO
Start… journalling; it’s been shown
to improve health. Not sure where to
start? Peruse My Creative Writing
Journal (£9.99, Cico Books).
Forage for… wild garlic. These
green leaves grow in abundance
from late winter to the end of spring.
Add the leaves and flowers to soups
and sauces or whizz into a pesto.
Learn to… bake bread
confidently with an introductory
course taught by French baker and
chef Richard Bertinet in Bath. 2 or 6
Feb, £215, thebertinetkitchen.com

Sheepskin chair, £1,100;

side table, £245; Pearl
FEATURE JACKY PARKER

basket, £95; Montrose

blanket, £150; Audley
tapered pendant light,
£195; vase, £20; candle,
£20, all The White Company

136 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 LIVE LIFE WELL

HOME COMFORTS That’s a wrap

Say goodbye to cling film and keep
Luxury loungewear continues to be food fresh with these new beeswax
top of our wish list. Cornish brand wraps from Emma Bridgewater and
The Beeswax Wrap Company. This
Celtic and Co has plenty of stylish and collaboration brings you two designs –
cosy buys to choose from. Rivalling Emma’s signature Black Toast lettering
cashmere, this Geelong wool roll-neck and a new Bees and Butterflies print.
Handmade from locally
will keep you snug. Pair with sourced British
super-soft, merino lounge pants beeswax, organic
jojoba oil and
and fluffy slipper boots. pine resin,
these wraps
are plastic-free,
eco-friendly and
reusable. From £20
for a pack of three,
Emma Bridgewater

SOUND SLEEP
The innovative EcoMattress –
with a design that is kinder to the
environment – is a first for John Lewis
& Partners. With a filling made from
recycled fibres and plastic bottles,
it’s not only vegan-friendly, but is fully
recyclable, too. In addition to its
sustainability credentials, it offers
supreme comfort and support.
Available in a choice of medium
and firm tensions. From £599 for
a double, John Lewis & Partners

Geelong slouch roll-neck,

£114; Merino lounge pants,
£85; Celt house boots, £145;
Yeti rug, £95; Lambs wool
throw, £125, all Celtic and Co

3 steps to… revive

your houseplants A BREATH OF
INCREASE LIGHT It’s likely your plants FRESH AIR
have been deprived of sunlight over
the winter. As well as finding a sunnier If you suffer from asthma
spot for them, try adding a light- or allergies it can be difficult
coloured gravel to the surface of
to decipher which home
the soil to reflect light upwards.
RE-POT Plants typically need to be
products might trigger a
re-potted every 12-18 months, or sooner reaction. Breatheasy paints
if your plant has outgrown its pot. from Crown have been
BOOST HUMIDITY Central heating
can cause a really dry environment for
specially formulated with
plants. As well as misting the leaves, allergy and asthma sufferers
create a moisture tray by filling a plate in mind. Available in matt,
with small pebbles and water and
placing your plant on top. This will silk and mid-sheen finishes,
create a humid area around your plant. from £14 for 2.5ltr, Crown

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 137

LIVE LIFE WELL

3 of the best…
plug-in
diffusers
To help reduce stress, lift your
mood and achieve better sleep

LI GHT S HOW
Choose how long the
scent diffuses for
with different timed
settings. Plus, it also
features seven colour
settings – choose just
one or cycle slowly
through them all.
Ultrasonic diffuser,
£50, John Lewis
& Partners

C LEAN AESTH ETI C

This best-seller is
beautifully made from
ceramic with a smart
wooden base. Use
with your favourite
White Company
fragrance and the
TIMEPIECE aroma will fill your
home in minutes.
In a tribute to William Morris’ £65, The White
iconic designs, Danish watch brand Company
Austin Berg has brought to life
some of the most beloved motifs POP O F COLOU R
This diffuser is
with a stunning collection of unisex
concealed by a
watches. The company is partnering ridged ceramic cover.
with the Human Practice Choose from Peach,
Foundation and for every watch Grey or Sage Green
to blend in with or
sold, Austin Berg will give a child in add an accent colour
Asia or Africa at least six months of to your interior.
quality education. From £199 each Electric oil aroma
diffuser, £45,
Oliver Bonas

PETS’ COMPOSTABLE
CORNER DEODORANT
Treat your four-legged Designed to last, this clever little deodorant
friend to a luxury floor case from eco-brand Wild is made to be
cushion that feels as
soft and cosy as wool, used again and again with compostable,
yet is made entirely plastic- and aluminium-free refills that
from recycled plastic
bottles – even the filling.
can be delivered
Pioneered by Devon- straight to your
FEATURE ALICE HUMPHRYS

based Weaver Green, door. Pick and mix

this stain- and water-
resistant material your favourite
can be used outside, scents. Subscription
too, and is machine
washable. From £185,
starter pack,
Weaver Green from £12, Wild

138 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 LIVE LIFE WELL

Wild swimming is
a great way to get
back to nature

MY COUNTRY PASSION
Winter sea swimming
While swimming in the icy seas of the Scottish Isles, Tamsin Calidas discovered
she had untapped inner reserves of strength, courage and resilience
I live in the Scottish Hebrides. The is exhilarating and addictive; it takes swim, anything else that happens in
landscape is wild with rugged cliffs, you into a wilder, instinctive zone. my life feels, if not easy, then at least
mountains and fierce tides as well I needed to make sense of some possible. It tests your limits, stretches
as an intimacy of view, with rolling very intense and challenging times I tolerances and slackens and
hills, freshwater lochs, tiny, white had experienced. It’s a longer story, strengthens a core fibre that quivers
sand coves and native woodlands. but one day I felt called to the shore. through your whole being, like some
FEATURE JACKY PARKER PHOTOGRAPHS TIM GAINEY/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

I love the unpredictability of the On the rocks, there was nowhere to inner thread being tensioned. Winter
weather, the light and the incredible hide, no shelter or buffer. That day, swimming takes this to a new level.
wildlife – when you commit to this, my heart lifted as the sea reached It brings you closer to the essence
daily, it offers itself differently. forwards, gently calling me. It of yourself, your life, and the
Swimming in the winter is the year’s brought me back, from a place of potential of all that flows from this. It
highlight. The experience of water, darkness and into a pivotal moment. invites you to live more simply, with
its contrasts, familiarity and Stepping into the cold water is akin less stimulus yet in the knowledge
discomforts, intensifies. I suddenly to shedding a skin. There’s a moment you are tapping into an infinitely
step more closely into my own life. when I stand on the shore, the fierce richer source. It’s not for everyone
I love the sea’s teeth. Even in waves barrelling towards me, that I and yet it calls me home.
summer the water is testing; it bites have to commit. It helps me to focus,
and reminds you that you are you. to recalibrate and take myself into a Read this...
The water in summer ranges from space where my resilience is infinitely Discover more about
winter sea swimming
8-11 degrees and this drops to 6 greater than I imagined. It gifts
and how to untap your
degrees in winter, with an icy wind courage, endurance and strength. resilience in Tamsin’s book,
chill that can drop to minus 15 As I return to the shore, I feel braver I Am An Island by Tamsin
degrees. That intensity of experience than I did before. After my daily Calidas, £16.99, Doubleday

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 139

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 LIVE LIFE WELL

LEFT Take your time

exploring the five miles of
private beaches. BELOW
Enjoy the views from
Captain’s House

PLAN A TRIP TO:

Osea island
A PRIVATE ISLAND JUST OFF THE ESSEX COAST IS THE PERFECT ESCAPE

W
ith a varied and featured in several films, from The you can take a dip in the heated
fascinating history, Osea Third Day to The Woman in Black. pool from April to October.
is an intriguing private EAST-COAST ELEGANCE LOCALLY SAUCED
island reached by a Roman Guests can stay in a range of Although the island is mainly
causeway, which snakes across accommodation, from a grand self-catering, chefs can be hired at
the muddy estuary from nearby Edwardian manor house (complete any time of the year. Pop-up
Maldon, providing complete with recording studio) to rustic restaurant collaborations include
seclusion at high tide. Once a weatherboard cottages. The Native and the Borough kitchen,
Victorian temperance society for Captain’s House is a nine-bedroom, famed for foraged ingredients and
people with alcoholism, in 2000 seven-bathroom New England-style game, with tasting menus inspired
FEATURE JO FERNANDEZ-CORUGEDO

music producer Nigel Frieda beach house. Eclectic interiors also by the surrounding landscape.
bought the 400-acre estate for £6 nod to local fishing villages, meaning MARITIME MARVEL
million. He brought a new cool to rustic open beams and wood Spend time walking among nature
the island as well as A-list guests, burning stoves blend with antique and wildlife – including the resident
from Cara Delevingne to Rihanna, four poster beds and roll-top baths. donkeys – and don’t forget to take a
who can arrive in glamorous A large conservatory-style dining trip to Maldon, a charming historic
fashion by helicopter (20 minutes room features wicker chairs, town whose high street is lined with
from Battersea) or river taxi. It’s potted palms and lush patterned heritage buildings, independent
wallpaper and the inviting, light- shops and a glut of restaurants.
filled library/living room has lived-in From £4,000, minimum two-
Cosy bedrooms
brown leather sofas, book-lined night stay. Osea Island, Maldon
await on the island
walls and endless views. Outside, CM9 8UH, oseaisland.co.uk

While youÕre there...

CAFE BRAZIL THE MOOT HALL JUST THE THING
This sunny slice of South Book a tour of the former Stock up on presents at
America on Maldon’s high medieval home of Sir this good-looking
street serves delicious, Robert D’Arcy, now a homeware store selling
well-presented tapas- wedding venue with a gifts such as equestrian-
style specialities, from unique 15th-century inspired wine racks, locally
cassava fries to classic curved brick staircase, made candles and
bean stews, in a relaxed flower bedecked balcony condiment sets for storing
and welcoming setting. and striking bell tower. Maldon’s famous salt.

• For more inspirational travel ideas visit thecaribou.com

COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS 141
M A R K E T P L AC E

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 M A R K E T P L AC E

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01255 831605 BAT H C O M PA N Y
Headboards & Beds | Ottomans & Stools | Sofa Beds & Chairs
albionbathco.com HAND MADE IN ENGLAND

To advertise here or on our online directory, please call 020 3148 2261, or email homeinterestclassified@timeinc.com
M A R K E T P L AC E

KITCHENS

THE ELECTRIC RANGE

MODERN EFFICIENCY,
CLASSIC GOOD LOOKS.

NOW
AVAILABLE
IN MARINE
BLUE

With six widths available and

a choice of great colours
we’re confident we have just 01453 890018
the right EVERHOT for you. www.everhot.co.uk

Sizzling Smokey Wood kitchen from A game changer amongst

smart taps
Simply better - BLANCO’s new EVOL-S Pro Hot and Filter
tap is unique, delivering both boiling filtered and cold
filtered water in a measured amount of your choosing, all in
an impressive design

A game changer in the exciting smart tap market for your

modern eco-friendly, super-hygienic kitchen is BLANCO’s
new easy to use, 4-in-1 water-saving boiling
water tap, the EVOL-S Pro Hot and Filter. Boasting the
revolutionary EVOL rotary dial, allowing you to set precisely
the amount of filtered boiling or filtered cold water you
choose. The Pro Hot and Filter 4-in1 tap joins the EVOL-S
This stunning new Smokey Wood kitchen scheme from Keller – www.kellerkitchens.com - family alongside the 3-in-1 Pro Filter and the original
has been designed to ooze beautiful rustic charm in the heart of your home. The rough EVOL-S Volume mixer with pull-out spray.
veneer, with smoked wood stain, is luxurious and adds a modern touch to this country style
BLANCO’s SELECT II integrated storage and waste
kitchen; while top quality manufacturing techniques make for long life and smooth operation. organisation systems are ideal for use in combination with
For further information, please visit www.kellerkitchens.com or the EVOL-S Pro taps. For further information on BLANCO UK,
please call 01923 635 200 or visit www.blanco.co.uk
email Tim Spann at tspann@kellerkitchens.com

FURNITURE

Order your free fabric samples at

thefootstoolworkshop.co.uk
01443 831 981
Beautiful. Practical. Customisable.

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 F U L LY E S C O RT E D T O U R S
HOLIDAY
HAPPINESS.
GUAR ANTEED
Dreaming of a holiday in 2021? With industry-
leading health and safety practices, flexible
booking options and our ‘happiness guarantee’,
Lake Como, St Moritz & the
we will ensure you have an unforgettable Bernina Express
holiday without compromise. Departures from April to October 2021
8 days from only £889pp
• Exceptional experiences, with no compromises
If you’re not completely happy by day two,
we’ll bring you home with a full refund
* Take a lake cruise to beautiful Bellagio on Lake Como,
and visit the delightful Villa del Balbianello and its

• Industry-leading health and safety practices to

inspirational gardens
* Enjoy a full-day visit to the chic
resort of St Moritz, including a journey on the Bernina
keep you safe
All our UK and European tours in 2021 on sale are
small groups, with a maximum of 25 guests and
Express
* Follow in the footsteps of the ‘Grand Tour’ with a
visit to Lake Maggiore and the town of Stresa
*
Lugano, an elegant Swiss lakeside town with Italian
Visit

*
social distancing in place influences Return flights from a selection of regional
• Free to change your mind with fully flexible booking
Change your booking for free up to 45 days
airports, plus all hotel transfers
*
Seven nights in a choice
of well-located three and four-star accommodation, with
before travel breakfast and dinner*
*The services of our experienced
and insightful tour manager throughout

Lake Garda, Venice & Verona Lake Maggiore, Orta

Departures from April to October 2021 & the Matterhorn
8 days from only £789pp Departures from May to October 2021

* * Enjoy a full day exploring beautiful Lake Garda 8 days from only £1,059pp

*
Explore Venice, the medieval world’s richest city, on a Cruise Lake Maggiore’s enchanting Borromean Islands,
tour with a local guide – choose between the ‘classic’ and with a guided tour of the Baroque palace on Isola Bella
‘undiscovered’ tours
* Walk into history among the Roman
* Travel through the Simplon Pass to Zermatt and the

* *
ruins of Verona, guided by a local expert – choose between Matterhorn Visit picture-perfect Lake Como Enjoy a
the ‘classic’ and ‘undiscovered’ tours
*
Marvel at the full-day tour visiting Cannobio and Locarno, with a journey

*
breathtaking alpine scenery of the Dolomites on a full-day on the Centovalli railway Tour one of Italy’s most
tour
* Visit a local vineyard, with a guided tour of the

*
exquisite stretches of water, Lake Orta, and its medieval

*
cellars and wine tasting Return flights from a selection of village of Orta San Giulio Return flights from a selection
regional airports, plus all hotel transfers
*
Seven nights in a
choice of three-star to four-star superior accommodation, *
of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers Seven nights in
four-star superior or four-star accommodation, with
with breakfast and dinner
* The services of our experienced
and insightful tour manager throughout
breakfast and dinner
* The services of our experienced and
insightful tour manager throughout

To book or request a brochure, call 01283 523454 or visit cohriviera.co.uk

Terms and conditions: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite
availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera
Travel Ltd. ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Country Homes & Interiors, published by TI Media
Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print. See website for full details. *Stays at the Grand Hotel Menaggio are on a
bed-and-breakfast basis, with dining options available.
M Y FA V O U R I T E V I E W

The beauty of
the Himalayas has
stayed with Cerys

MY FAVOURITE VIEW...
Everest and the Khumbu
Glacier, Nepal
The majesty of Everest and the Khumbu Glacier inspired musician
Cerys Matthews during her memorable birthday expedition
Given my birthplace, the obvious The day of my birthday, we walked we were going through this
view to choose would be in Wales, out of the village we’d been staying experience together. The sense
and there are so many that I love. in and there it was – Everest, this of being alive was so tangible.
But, actually, there’s a view that stunning peak with its iconic double There was a second view on the
I will remember for the rest of my life summit. There’s a romance about trip that was just as magical. At this
– and it’s much further away, in Nepal. going to the highest place on earth point there’s no greenery; we’d left
I was 50 in April 2018 and I and I felt such a buzz when we first the rhododendrons and junipers
decided to mark the event with an recognised it. The Himalayas are so behind, and were clambering across
unforgettable trip, trekking through huge – these thousand metre peaks huge boulders. I looked up to see
the Himalayas to Everest base camp. filling a whole country – and Everest caves of incredible clear blue and
We hiked over 11 days, with the is the king and queen of places. The water tinkling – we were walking up
FEATURE ANDRÉA CHILDS PHOTOGRAPH ALAMY

weather and landscape changing locals call it the Goddess Mountain, an ice flow to the Khumbu Glacier.
each step of the way. You’re there and every second in its vicinity you The size and scale and blueness
to see Everest – this iconic mountain feel in awe of nature and the planet. of it; the solitariness… And the
whose stories we have all enjoyed It was an experience I wanted sounds! In nature, your mind
– but you’re chasing a glimpse of to share with my family, and my has space to listen and respond
it. Each day we’d be told by guides husband and our two children came to sound. There couldn’t be
and fellow walkers, ‘Today is the on the trip with me. In today’s world any more beautiful music.
day you might see Everest.’ There we can spend so much solitary Listen to Cerys Matthews’ new
would be a blizzard of snow and time plugged into technology, and poetry album, ‘We Come From the
wind, we’d get to the viewing point, there’s little physical time when we Sun’, featuring Hidden Orchestra
and we’d have missed it again. are all present. In the Himalayas, and 10 Poets (Decca Records).

146 COUNTRY HOMES & INTERIORS

 tomhowley.co.uk call 0161 848 1200 for a free brochure

ALDERLEY EDGE ALTRINCHAM BEACONSFIELD BRENTWOOD BRISTOL CAMBRIDGE CHELSEA CHELTENHAM EDINBURGH
ESHER GUILDFORD HARROGATE ISLINGTON LEAMINGTON SPA LONDON W1 TUNBRIDGE WELLS WINCHESTER

BRITISH DESIGN & CRAFTSMANSHIP

 The
Beauty of
Bespoke The UK’s leading specialists in
designing, crafting and installing
custom-made window furnishings.

Book a consultation: 0800 688 8118 or visit thomas-sanderson.co.uk