Inside A Character-Filled Cottage That Captures The Spirit Of English Country Living

This article details the transformation of a 100-year-old American Craftsman home in the foothills of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains by the design firm Salvesen Graham. The project was initiated when a young couple, one American and one British, relocated from California and sought a home that blended their cultural traditions, offering both relaxation and elegance without being overly formal. The designers, Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, aimed to create a comfortable yet sophisticated living space. The house, part of a community of heritage homes dating back to the early 20th century, presented a unique opportunity for Salvesen Graham, a firm more accustomed to working with buildings over 100 years old in the UK. The designers meticulously preserved and enhanced the home's period features, such as its brick and shiplap exterior and expansive veranda. Their approach balanced respect for the original architecture with a desire to update it for modern living, rather than creating a "living museum" of a 1900s mining town house. In the entryway, a small-scale patterned wallpaper contributes to a Victorian aesthetic, complemented by an Arts and Crafts lantern. The designers made a conscious decision to paint some of the original pine woodwork a sage green to neutralize its overwhelming orange tones, allowing the unpainted sections of craftsmanship to be appreciated more easily. This thoughtful intervention highlights the delicate balance between preservation and contemporary adaptation. The drawing room was designed as a sophisticated space for entertaining, with the clients actively participating in sourcing art, including an abstract floral piece. The living room, in contrast, serves as a more casual gathering area. The project was significantly impacted by the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to initial client-designer interactions via Zoom. This period also amplified the British client's desire to infuse English design elements into the American architectural style. A central pass-through space in the house was transformed into a hallway-cum-library, offering an intentional quiet zone that connects different rooms. The kitchen, designed in a Shaker style, bridges functional utilitarianism with English charm. Its formal layout was maintained, rejecting the trend of open-plan spaces, and features fitted units and a large island painted in various shades of blue. The dining room, referred to as the "hearth room," provides an informal dining experience with windows on three sides, creating a sense of dining among treetops. The space incorporates a striped floral fabric for curtains and Roman shades, aligning with painted tongue-and-groove paneling on the ceiling. Upholstered dining chairs, vintage rattan chairs, and a vibrant green built-in window seat contribute to a layered aesthetic. The bedrooms, particularly the master suite, are characterized by a rich interplay of color and pattern, featuring florals, stripes, paisleys, and soft geometrics in a cheerful palette of pinks and greens. Salvesen Graham, founded in London in 2013 by Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, is known for its layered aesthetic and timeless approach, aiming to create warm and soft interiors inspired by Georgian England and 18th- and 19th-century Indian textiles, while bringing an edge to quintessential British charm. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AmericanCraftsman #BritishCharm #SalvesenGraham #ColoradoHomes #HistoricRenovation #TraditionalModern #LayeredAesthetic

This article explores the transformation of a rental cottage in the English countryside, named Charlotte’s Folly, into a whimsical and magical retreat, as envisioned by London-based interior designer Emma Ainscough. The exterior of the three-bedroom property features 'gingerbread-like' decorative barge boards, lattice windows, and a pastel pink facade, all newly added to create a storybook aesthetic. Ainscough's design brief focused on blending this playful, dollhouse-like appearance with practical, space-saving solutions necessary for a vacation rental. The renovation involved significant changes to the ground-floor layout to improve flow and functionality. The main living room was opened up to the dining space, and double doors were installed to connect to the garden. In the kitchen, the sink was repositioned to a side wall to maximize counter space. Ainscough also addressed structural challenges, such as slanted beams in the shower that could not be moved, by cleverly tiling over them. A key design challenge was fitting desired amenities, such as bathtubs in both bathrooms, into small spaces, which led to an embrace of cozy cottage vibes. Key design decisions highlighted in the article include the selection of an unusually slim farmhouse dining table to fit the small dining area, sourced from a UK antiques supplier. This table’s natural timber tones complement the room’s brown palette. The dining room also features a bold striped wallpaper by Hamilton Weston and a bespoke dried floral installation by Myrtle Fox & Maude, a combination that Ainscough admits was a risk due to the small space but ultimately proved successful in creating a harmonious color scheme. Another detail that required client persuasion was the checkerboard tile covering an entire wall above the kitchen units, a bold choice that ultimately contributed to the cottage's unique character. For hardware and accessories, Ainscough discovered Mark Lewis, whose high-quality cast bronze pieces were used throughout the kitchen cabinetry and bathrooms. The designer also leveraged Glassette, an online platform for small businesses and artisans, to source unique smaller items like table lamps, cushions, and throws. In the bedrooms, space planning presented further challenges. For instance, the long and thin blue bedroom required a creative approach to accommodate a super-king-size bed, leading to the creation of a cozy, cocoon-like nook with a tented ceiling that featured a central pendant lamp and draped fabric. The green bedroom, featuring a 'Creeping Toadflax' wallpaper by Living Quarters, is identified as Ainscough's favorite space, with the wallpaper extending across the ceiling to enhance the room's magical and delicate mood, despite the added cost. The project also incorporated budget-friendly finds, such as a vintage kidney dressing table from eBay that was reupholstered to maintain a vintage feel while allowing for custom fabric work. #EnglishCottage #InteriorDesign #WhimsicalDecor #SpaceSavingSolutions #RentalProperty #HomeRenovation #EmmaAinscough #DesignChallenges #VintageFinds

Bibury, often dubbed ‘the most beautiful village in England’ by William Morris, is home to the delightful Grade II-listed Arlington Manor. This property, located in the wooded Coln Valley, approximately seven miles from Cirencester, is currently on the market for a guide price of £1.895 million, managed by Savills. Historically, Arlington Manor has a rich past. The Victoria County History (1981) records it as a 17th-century house, with an 18th-century south-west front resulting from a partial rebuilding of its south wing. In 1839, the property functioned as a farmhouse within the Barnsley Park estate, featuring outbuildings to the south, including a barn dating back to 1808. The current owner acquired the house in April 2004 and has since undertaken a sympathetic and extensive renovation. This renovation included integrating the attached stone barn at the rear into the main structure, thereby creating a substantial additional reception room. The property now offers expansive, flexible, and well-lit accommodation spread across three floors. It comprises five reception rooms, a dedicated study, a fully-equipped kitchen/breakfast room, five bedrooms, and five bathrooms. The manor's unique charm is further enhanced by its recent interior design update, skillfully executed by Joanna Wood. Wood is renowned for her expertise in Cotswold properties, having previously restored her own Georgian manor house in nearby Southrop, lending her a deep understanding of the region's architectural and aesthetic sensibilities. Outdoors, a paved courtyard at the rear of the house leads to the enchanting walled gardens. These gardens feature a variety of private, landscaped areas meticulously divided by traditional dry-stone walls, offering a serene and picturesque environment. Included in the sale is an attached one-bedroom cottage, which boasts independent access next to Arlington’s wrought-iron entrance gates, as well as an internal connection to the main house. Additionally, the property features a fully equipped party barn. This barn is designed for entertainment, complete with soft furnishings, dramatic lighting, a table football setup, and a cinema screen, making it an ideal space for social gatherings and leisure activities. #CotswoldProperty #ArlingtonManor #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #PeriodProperty #CountryLife #JoannaWood #Bibury

Designer Philip Gorrivan and his wife, Lisa Rossi, purchased an 1840 farmhouse in Washington, Connecticut, six years prior to the article's publication. The 3,800-square-foot home was intended as a weekend retreat from Manhattan life for their family and two children. The house possesses a unique history, having been moved to its current seven-acre plot in the 1950s after avoiding a flood. This relocation provided the home with desirable country living attributes: historic charm, a substantial land parcel, and a full basement. Gorrivan meticulously oversaw the interior design and landscaping of the property. The home features vibrant wallcoverings, some from his own designs for Holland & Sherry, alongside carefully selected furnishings. The expansive gardens are cultivated with hydrangeas and rare boxwood varieties. Gorrivan's personal design philosophy, influenced by his upbringing in Maine with a Yankee father and French-Moroccan mother, incorporates a blend of vivid, saturated colors and strong patterns with neutral tones like taupe and dove grays. He humorously refers to certain patterns, such as pink camouflage in a guest bedroom, as his "favorite neutral." This combination results in an aesthetic that is both timeless and modern. Quirky elements are integrated throughout the home, possibly as a nod to his mother's whimsical taste. Examples include an acid yellow-glass vessel in the dining room, a den wall adorned with small antlers, and zebra-print fabrics in his daughter's bedroom. The influence of his New England heritage is evident in antique side tables, a Wallace Nutting stool, and a 19th-century Vermont rocking chair, which is a family heirloom. Gorrivan employs a design technique he calls "massing," involving the display of groups of similar small objects to highlight their shape or color. This is demonstrated by the arrangement of 18th-century creamware in the kitchen, amethyst glass lining a dining room window, and vintage crystal glassware in an antique armoire used as a bar. Additionally, ancient bottles, some discovered by his children in the backyard, are showcased on a den étagère, reflecting his appreciation for beauty over strict provenance. In 2012, the family's weekend routine was disrupted when Rossi was transferred to London, necessitating a move for the family from New York to South Kensington. While Gorrivan was able to manage his work remotely and felt little attachment to their New York apartment, he found it impossible to part with the Connecticut home. Despite the logistical challenges of maintaining the property from overseas, including its distance from an airport and harsh climate, Gorrivan cherishes the home deeply. He makes efforts to return, spending weeks in the summer with his family or occasional winter weekends alone, finding solace and a sense of belonging in the environment he created. He acknowledges the impracticality but views his attachment as an emotional necessity. #ColonialHome #ConnecticutDesign #InteriorDesign #PhilipGorrivan #CountryLiving #HomeDecor #HistoricHomes #DesignInspiration

In 2022, facing a challenging real estate market, Cody and Ashley Spencer, along with Cody’s brother and sister-in-law, collaboratively purchased a property in Langley. This acquisition laid the groundwork for their company, Homestead Design Build, which specializes in multi-generational living projects. Their clientele often includes younger generations struggling to enter the housing market, leading to creative solutions like parents moving into basements or building laneways. The Spencers' personal project involved renovating an existing house for Cody's brother and sister-in-law while constructing a new home for themselves on the opposite end of the deep, forest-bordered lot. Initial plans for a sprawling rancher were re-evaluated due to the lot's narrow profile and proximity to a creek, leading them to design a two-storey, 1,950-square-foot residence. Inspired by storybook European cottages, the new home blends modern aesthetics with a cozy, timeless appeal. The exterior features steeply pitched rooflines, board-and-batten siding, and warm cedar accents against a charcoal-on-black color scheme. A covered back patio, sheltered by a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams and slim skylights, provides a three-season outdoor living space amidst Douglas fir and cedar trees, fostering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Inside, dual-panel sliding-glass doors open into a living room dominated by a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, continuing the European cottage theme. The interior design incorporates an eclectic mix of vintage and modern furnishings, including a minimalist gallery wall and a dining area with spindle-back chairs, modern benches, and a traditional console. The kitchen is a focal point with a custom-framed hood fan, built-in shelves, and a striking quartz slab backsplash in a soft green hue. Defying convention, a framed artwork hangs above the range. A fieldstone feature wall near the farmhouse-style sink and brushed-gold faucet visually links to the living room fireplace. White and rift-cut white oak cabinetry with polished-chrome hardware contributes to a light, modern feel, while the Caesarstone-topped island features reeded side paneling and an integrated feeding nook for the family dog. The main floor powder room introduces a bold touch with walls and wainscotting drenched in Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog. Upstairs, the primary bathroom offers a spa-like retreat with a freestanding tub, ceramic herringbone floor tile, and large-format wall tiles mitered into the windows with quartz sills, creating a durable, waterproof wet area. The daughter's bedroom is decorated in bright pink, complemented by a green and rose bathroom with playful terrazzo hex floor tile and a practical pull-out stool from the vanity for accessibility. The couple’s home office, where they work side-by-side on projects, reflects their collaborative design-build approach. While the Spencers thoughtfully designed their home for longevity and adaptability to their family's growth, they acknowledge that minor details can be refreshed over time, ensuring the home remains both functional and aesthetically pleasing for years to come. #HomeDesign #CottagecoreStyle #MultiGenerationalLiving #HomesteadDesignBuild #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #EuropeanCottage #OutdoorLiving #FamilyHome

The article details the design process and outcome of a custom-built home in Dallas for Chris and Lynsey Synek, whose personal style, particularly Lynsey's "couture" fashion, heavily influenced the interior design. Faced with a limited real estate market offering homes that were either too old or too small, the Syneks decided to purchase a lot and embark on a custom build. They engaged designer Philip Thomas Vanderford of Studio Thomas James, Janson Luter Architects, and builder Faulkner Perrin to create their ideal home. The design aesthetic for the house was directly inspired by Lynsey Synek's curated and edgy fashion sense, characterized by precise editing and a specific color palette. This influence translated into the home's selection of deep charcoals, dusty whites, spicy mustards, eggplant, and sophisticated pinks, some enhanced with high-gloss finishes. These colors were balanced with natural elements like oak beams, flooring, and cabinetry, extending even to the office ceiling. Vanderford's approach focused on holistic design, ensuring seamless transitions and optimal mobility between spaces. The couple's preference for having all main living areas on the first floor guided the layout. A central feature of the home is the living room, designed as the nexus for family and guests, and considered one of the Syneks' favorite areas. To prevent the large room from feeling either overcrowded or empty, Vanderford implemented a "rule of two," using pairs of significant furniture pieces such as 85-inch settees, midcentury modern chairs, and coffee tables. This strategy aimed to improve circulation and flow, making the room feel both inviting and functional without appearing cartoonish, a common pitfall in oversized Texas rooms. The article also provides a room-by-room breakdown, highlighting specific design choices and sourced items. The entryway features an inky, textural wallcovering from National Solutions and custom black-and-white tile, complemented by a custom Riloh chandelier and a St. James Lighting lantern. The living room includes pieces from Paul Matter and Baker-McGuire, with a Stark rug. The family room, serving as a more informal entertaining space, contains chairs by Julian Chichester, a Visual Comfort & Co lamp, and a coffee table from Theodore Alexander. The kitchen is characterized by a wall of windows, warm oak cabinetry, and Bianco Superiore quartzite, furnished with vintage stools in Élitisfabric and Riloh pendants. Further sections detail the butler's pantry with Hapny hardware, a breakfast nook featuring a custom banquette and a Riloh chandelier, and a dining room painted in high-gloss Benjamin Moore Ciao Bella, accented with Carlucci draperies and a Jonathan Browning Studios chandelier. The wet bar, located opposite the living room, is equipped with Fyrn barstools. The powder room showcases terrazzo tile from Ann Sacks, Visual Comfort & Co sconces, and Phylrich fixtures. The primary bedroom features a supersized custom headboard and a pitched ceiling, with a Visual Comfort & Co chandelier and Thibaut wallcovering. The main level owners' suite and an outdoor cabana are also mentioned, completing the comprehensive tour of this custom-tailored Dallas residence. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomBuild #DallasRealEstate #InteriorArchitecture #ColorPalette #FurnitureArrangement #PhilipThomasVanderford

English cottages evoke a sense of quaintness and tranquility, often associated with the idyllic countryside. This design aesthetic is characterized by a blend of traditional architectural elements, natural materials, and lush gardens, creating a comforting and romantic ambiance. Key features that define an English cottage include a country kitchen, a garden, a traditional drawing room, antique furnishings, floral decor, and wall paneling. Additional hallmarks often include low-beam ceilings and fireplaces, contributing to the cozy and inviting atmosphere. There are numerous ways to incorporate English cottage charm into a home's exterior and surroundings. A typical cottage might feature a mix of brick and stone or concrete painted in neutral tones for the exterior, ensuring durability and a classic look. Traditional British manors often utilize stone with perfectly painted window trim that harmonizes with other structural elements, such as a detached garage, and are complemented by meticulously maintained landscaping. Cottages nestled in areas like Dartmoor National Park offer spectacular, uninterrupted views, emphasizing a connection to nature and a retreat from urban life. Stone exteriors are particularly iconic, reminiscent of cottages seen in films. These homes can be enhanced with outdoor seating areas and fire pits to maximize relaxation. Focusing on details like a brightly painted front door and trimmed potted shrubs can elevate the curb appeal. The traditional thatched roof, a feature with historical roots dating back 10,000 years, is a quintessential element that immediately identifies a home as an English cottage. Allowing floral vines, such as wisteria, to grow up the sides of a stone house adds to the romantic ambiance, though diligent pruning is necessary to prevent overgrowth. Inspiration for English cottage design can be drawn from various sources, including picturesque villages like those in East Sussex, which feature connected houses with timber-framed slate roofs. Modern farmhouses, while distinct, can also incorporate elements that evoke a similar dreamy escape, especially when paired with natural beauty like pinkish sunsets. Gardens are integral to the English cottage aesthetic, with vibrant and fragrant blooms like purple and pink flowers adding color and sensory pleasure. Wisteria-covered cottages, while beautiful, highlight the importance of maintaining vegetation to preserve the home's charm. Cottages located near natural features like winding rivers or on prominent corners offer unique visual appeal. The choice of exterior color can also contribute to charm; while natural stone is common, traditional homes can be enlivened with bright hues like mustard yellow, peach, light pink, or light purple, especially when paired with rust-colored roofs. Simplicity often underpins the beauty of these homes, with a focus on natural materials and surrounding greenery. Autumnal settings in regions like Gloucestershire further accentuate the cozy allure of traditional cottages, ideal for quiet relaxation. Courtyards with pebbles instead of grass offer a low-maintenance alternative that still provides an inviting outdoor space, accessible through French doors. Traditional English gardens, filled with roses, lavender, and foxgloves, are essential for creating a truly authentic cottage feel, providing fresh flowers for indoor enjoyment. Even tiny rural cottages, painted in subtle shades like faint yellow and featuring interesting rooflines, can exude significant charm when surrounded by lush plants. Well-maintained brick cottages nestled among trees, with classic brown shingled roofs and white-trimmed windows, uphold tradition. For larger properties, creating floral mazes or garden paths with honeysuckle arches enhances the outdoor experience. The archetypal English cottage often combines a thatched roof, brick exterior, abundant flowers, and a white picket fence. Homes designed by garden lovers frequently feature flowers cascading alongside the exterior, sometimes with a thatched roof and a dormer over the front door. Traditional abodes with architectural details like arched entryways and lush greenery create a welcoming atmosphere. Scenic stone cottages in rural settings, even small ones, offer fantastic getaways. The timeless quality of traditional English cottages is evident in designs that retain medieval-style doors and natural stone exteriors. Large front yards of classic brick cottages can serve as ideal spaces for outdoor gatherings. Unique cottages painted in vibrant blues, complemented by green roofs and pink flowers, demonstrate how color can be used creatively. Finally, woodsy gothic cottages, with exquisite architecture and stone bench seating, add a unique historical dimension to the English cottage style. The use of varied stones and textures, along with classic elements like thatched roofs, shutters, and flowers, collectively contributes to the enduring charm of these homes. #EnglishCottage #HomeDesign #RuralLiving #ThatchRoof #Gardening #ArchitecturalStyle #CountryHome #ExteriorDesign #TraditionalDecor

The Wallis family, consisting of Jenna, an internationally acclaimed interior designer and owner of Jenna Wallis Interior Design, and her husband Ed, purchased a 1940s English cottage in the Hedgemoor neighborhood of Memphis with a vision to transform it into a serene and classic retreat for their family, including their two boys. Despite its charming exterior, the cottage required extensive renovation to accommodate a modern family while preserving its original character. After living in the house for about four years, the Wallises engaged Ryan Anderson of RKA Investments, a Memphis builder known for restoring older homes, and architect Charles Shipp to lead the renovation. Jenna's design philosophy centered on blending the old with the new, maintaining the home's classic charm while introducing contemporary elements. A significant challenge involved literally lifting the existing structure to create an open, airy space. The renovation team, including Ryan Anderson's business partner Chris Clark, worked collaboratively to achieve Jenna's vision, which included raising the living area's 9-foot ceilings to 11 feet to enhance natural light and spaciousness. Eight-foot windows were installed, flanking a custom fireplace, above which a vibrant painting by Atlanta artist Sally King Benedict became a focal point. Key areas of the home were meticulously redesigned. The kitchen was transformed with custom cabinetry extending to the ceiling for maximum storage, a beveled subway tile backsplash, and honed Carrara marble countertops. Jenna opted for unlacquered brass hardware, which develops a natural patina over time, to align with the home's original aesthetic. A breakfast nook, connecting the living area and kitchen, features sleek white walls, a streamlined banquette, and a rustic farmhouse table complemented by a brass globe chandelier. A framed 1966 Andy Warhol-designed Campbell's Soup dress, inherited from Ed's grandmother, adds a whimsical touch to this space. Throughout the living areas, white walls serve as a gallery for the Wallises' extensive art collection, which includes pieces by Memphis artist Megan Hurdle. In the parlor, a soft mint green ceiling, inspired by one of Hurdle's mixed-media works, adds a subtle color accent. Jenna's favorite space, her downstairs study, is distinguished by pale, high-gloss blue lacquered walls, a French pedestal desk, whimsical peacock figurines, and a modern brass starburst chandelier. Custom-built bookshelves by RKA Investments house the family's book collection, while art consultant Anna Wunderlich assisted in curating and displaying the family's diverse artwork, including a collection of oils and watercolors from Paris. The guest bedroom features a bold coral lattice wallpaper on an accent wall, framing an upholstered headboard, alongside French dressers and draperies made from Jim Thompson silk. The master bath was conceived as a spa-like retreat, with gray and white marble, built-in mirrors, millwork surrounding a white vanity, and elegant brass hardware. Antique light fixtures were incorporated to maintain the home's period charm. The renovation extended to the exterior, with Ryan Anderson and his team salvaging stone to create a cozy fireplace on a spacious, screened-in porch, which has become an ideal gathering spot for the Wallis family and friends. The project culminated in a home that perfectly blends classic charm with modern functionality, fulfilling Jenna's five-year vision. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #MemphisHomes #CottageRenovation #JennaWallisDesign #RKAInvestments #LuxuryInteriors #ArtCollection

Angelica and Richard Squire, cofounders of the U.K.-based design firm Studio Squire, undertook a significant transformation of an 1820s English cottage located in South Downs National Park. The clients, based in London, sought a weekend retreat to escape their demanding city lives. Upon their initial visit, the designers observed that despite its age, the cottage had lost much of its original character over the last 40 to 50 years. However, the property boasted exceptional natural surroundings, including a mile-long driveway through woodlands, rolling hills, and a series of lakes, offering an ideal setting for a secluded getaway. The clients presented Studio Squire with a completely blank canvas, requiring everything from furniture to dinner plates and art. Their primary constraint was a desire to utilize the house as quickly as possible. This led to an intensive renovation and furnishing period of approximately six months, during which the designers meticulously selected every item to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The project deliberately avoided recreating a historically accurate 200-year-old aesthetic, instead focusing on integrating materials, colors, and finishes that harmonized with the magical woodland environment. A key design decision involved replacing the ground-level flooring with old stone, which significantly altered the home's overall feel. While major construction was limited by time and budget, the designers reconfigured several awkward spaces. They added an extra bathroom upstairs in one of the guest bedrooms and downstairs, converted a small, oddly shaped boot room, a purposeless office, and a tiny windowless lavatory into a more functional and spacious boot room, essential for a home in the woods. This new boot room features a glazed door connecting it to the kitchen, tongue-and-groove paneling, Shaker pegs for coats, and wallpapered upper walls and ceiling. One of the project's biggest cost savings came from retaining the existing, well-built kitchen. The designers updated it by replacing worn countertops with tumbled granite, adding new wood to the island, repainting the cabinets, installing new hardware, and incorporating a hot water and filter tap. The first item purchased for the project was a chunky oak farmhouse table from a local dealer, Sussex Antiques, emphasizing a connection to the local community. The designers expressed enthusiasm for using tumbled granite again, noting its durability and resistance to marks, making it a practical alternative to less resilient materials like slate. The living room showcases an eclectic mix of seating, achieved by re-upholstering and re-springing secondhand chairs, giving the space a comfortable, inherited feel. A creative solution for concealing a large television involved hanging a Suzani tapestry on a curtain rail, allowing it to be pulled back to reveal the screen. An inventive transformation saw a non-working fireplace in the living room converted into a bar, complete with a slightly raised lintel arch. Additionally, a new door was installed to provide direct access to the garden from this area, enhancing convenience for entertaining. In the bathrooms, functionality met unique design. An added window in the shower, sourced affordably from eBay, was a key detail that prevented the space from feeling like a narrow tunnel. The main downstairs lavatory, visible to most guests, received a splurge with Thomas Crapper fittings, along with a window and a long console table. Upstairs, an interior curtain was installed at the top of the stairs, allowing residents to section off unused bedrooms during quieter weekends. The smallest bedroom features a bold "India Yellow" paint from Farrow & Ball and tongue-and-groove paneling to create a cabin-like atmosphere. In the primary bedroom, a fabric bed canopy was chosen over a grand four-poster, striking a balance between creating a focal point and maintaining the cottage's relaxed aesthetic, particularly in a large room where a walk-in wardrobe was removed to avoid clutter. #EnglishCottage #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #StudioSquire #WeekendRetreat #CountryLiving #EclecticDecor #KitchenDesign #BathroomRenovation

This blog post offers a tour of a four-bedroom detached property in Hampshire, owned by Gillian, who blogs at 'Tales From a Happy House.' Gillian and her family moved from Leeds in spring 2015 to be closer to relatives. The house, built in the 1960s, features characteristic elements such as an asymmetric chimney breast, large windows, and slanting, wood-clad ceilings. Despite its initial appeal due to a spacious garden and bright rooms, the property was in a state of disrepair upon purchase, with disconnected utilities, jarring wall patterns, a leaking patio door, and faulty boiler and electrics. The owners undertook significant renovations to transform the house into a light and bright home. They opted for white walls, wood floors, and incorporated printed fabrics and handmade items. A new woodburner became a central feature in the living room, which was their first major decorating project. They opened up a boxed-in fireplace, creating a focal point with the slope-sided chimney breast, and carefully selected a simple woodburner design to complement the room's clean lines. While the dark laminate flooring was not their original choice, its practicality and good condition led them to keep it. Throughout the home, neutral shades are used as a base, with bold colors introduced on feature walls, such as a vibrant green in the hallway. This vibrant entrance is intended to be inspiring. The hallway also showcases a display of floral prints and white frames. The dining area features furniture brought from their previous home in Leeds. They replaced their oversized dining table with a smaller circular G-Plan table, embracing a retro aesthetic, and paired it with replica Eames chairs. A 'family wall' in the dining area serves as a gallery for cherished items, including holiday finds and children's artwork, adding color and personalization and allowing for easy updates. The kitchen, though worn, is spacious and bright, with a neutral backdrop. While the owners plan to eventually redo it, they made temporary fixes to wobbly cabinets and applied a fresh coat of paint. The main bedroom features a deep-blue feature wall and yellow bed linen, adding a bold touch to an otherwise plain white room. A slim picture shelf provides a display area. In the child's bedroom, the walls remain pale and simple, allowing colorful bed linen, lighting, and accessories to provide visual interest. Under-bed storage and reversible bed linen are highlighted as practical features, along with bauble lights for a playful touch. The bathroom, like the kitchen, is an inherited space that the owners eventually intend to replace. For now, its neutral decor is enhanced by well-chosen accessories like blue towels. The owners have embraced the 1960s style of the house rather than attempting to conceal it, believing this approach has been successful. They also acknowledge the potential for future extensions to the kitchen and upstairs areas. The article demonstrates how thoughtful renovation and decorating choices can transform a neglected property into a personalized and comfortable family home, blending original architectural features with modern and retro design elements. #ChaletStyleHome #HampshireHome #TalesFromAHouse #HomeRenovation #1960sArchitecture #InteriorDesign #RetroVibe #FamilyHome #HomeDecor

This article details the extensive restoration of a Georgian cottage in Barbon, South Cumbria, by Rachel and David Ellershaw. The couple initially overlooked the property due to its condition and price but were ultimately charmed by its period features and potential. After purchasing the two-bedroom terraced cottage, built in 1800, in August 2010, they embarked on a major renovation project that transformed both the house and their lives. The renovation began in June 2011, starting with the upper floor to allow more time to save for structural work on the ground floor. The avocado bathroom suite was replaced, and its layout reconfigured to include a freestanding bath and shower. In 2012, attention shifted to the bedrooms, with the master bedroom undergoing significant changes, including the reinstallation of a chimney, a new fireplace sourced from eBay, a cast-iron radiator, and varnished floorboards. The guest room required less intervention. The most challenging phase involved the ground floor, where the couple discovered original Yorkstone flags beneath the carpet, which became a focal point. They removed the wall separating the cramped galley kitchen and the former living room to create a spacious open-plan kitchen-diner. This structural alteration also necessitated pulling down much of the old lath and plaster ceiling. A wood-burning stove was relocated to the inglenook fireplace in the new sitting room, and an Aga was installed in the kitchen. New sash windows were fitted at the front of the cottage, and a lean-to conservatory was replaced with a newly built one, with David Ellershaw actively participating in its construction alongside a joiner. Throughout the renovation, the Ellershaws made conscious design choices to enhance the cottage's character and functionality. The exterior was repainted, and the garden landscaped with a cobblestone path, lavender, and bay trees to enhance symmetry. Interior finishes included Farrow & Ball paints such as 'Mole’s Breath,' 'Purbeck Stone,' 'Old White,' 'Clunch,' 'Light Blue,' 'Pointing,' and 'Castle Gray.' The kitchen was fitted with Lacewing Green crackle glaze tiles from Marlborough Tiles and granite worktops from Westmorland Stone. Furnishings were carefully selected from retailers like Laura Ashley, and custom artwork was commissioned. The restoration not only resulted in a charming home but also inspired David to launch his own property renovation company, Ellershaw Property Renovation. #GeorgianCottage #HomeRestoration #CountryCharm #OpenPlanLiving #PeriodFeatures #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeImprovement #YorkshireDales

This article details the transformation of a dated, “cookie-cutter” tract house in Moorpark, California, into a charming and character-filled home. The property, a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom residence, was initially lacking in personality despite its promising layout and abundant natural light. Madison Lussier of Madison Nicole Design spearheaded a comprehensive renovation to bring the homeowners' vision of a serene, timeless, and comfortable space to life. The clients, who primarily reside in Chicago and intended this as a second home for extended family, sought a design that balanced refinement with comfort. Their aesthetic preferences leaned towards warm natural materials, a soft, neutral palette, and an overall elegant yet lived-in feel. The goal was to create a home that felt collected, approachable, and easy to live in, with thoughtful details integrated throughout. The renovation encompassed every surface of the house, introducing new flooring, updated lighting, and custom millwork to enhance the architectural detailing. A significant part of the project involved redesigning the kitchen, which was previously disjointed. The new layout improved functionality and openness, incorporating custom cabinetry and an added walk-in pantry. Similarly, the two main living areas benefited from new custom cabinetry, serving both functional storage needs and providing focal points that grounded each room. The primary bathroom was transformed into a tranquil retreat, featuring organic textures and soft finishes, while bedrooms were imbued with a sense of warmth and coziness. One unique and favored detail of the renovation is a custom dog wash installed in the backyard. Reflecting the homeowners' love for animals, this feature utilized leftover zellige tiles and unlacquered brass fixtures, blending style with utility. This small yet significant addition highlights the personalized approach taken throughout the design process. The renovation successfully moved the house beyond its initial generic state, creating a peaceful, personal, and beautifully layered environment that the owners find welcoming and well-loved, making the entire process rewarding for the design team. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TractHouseMakeover #CustomCabinetry #MoorparkHome #MadisonNicoleDesign #HomeDecor #FunctionalDesign #TimelessDesign

This article highlights the interior design transformation of a mock-Tudor-style home in Singapore, expertly curated by designer Elizabeth Hay. The design seamlessly blends the traditional English country house aesthetic with tropical elements, creating a unique and familiar environment for the British clients. The exterior of the home, colloquially known as a 'black-and-white' house, dates back to the late 19th century and reflects British colonial rule, featuring characteristic black-stained timber and whitewashed walls, combined with Malay design features such as wide verandas and tall shutters. Despite its charming exterior, the interior of the house was initially a blank canvas, characterized by white tiled floors and white walls, which felt sterile and lacked character. Elizabeth Hay, who had previously worked with the clients and whose own home design they admired for its 'east-meets-west approach and cosy English style,' was tasked with revitalizing the space. Given that the property is a rental, significant structural alterations were not feasible. Therefore, Elizabeth focused her design efforts and budget on soft furnishings and making strategic, impactful changes to the kitchen and bathrooms. The project was executed in phases, beginning with the ground-floor spaces, which are typically reserved for formal entertaining. These rooms are naturally darker due to the overhead balconies, making them ideal for evening use. For the sitting room, Elizabeth opted for a rich and sophisticated color palette of rhubarb red and cerulean blue. She re-covered the family's existing sofa and introduced a striking pelmet to frame the tall windows, enhancing the room's visual appeal. A clever design element is a mirrored cabinet that conceals the television, a technique Elizabeth frequently employs. She often repurposes antique pieces into media units, explaining that in Singapore, where fireplaces are uncommon, such a piece provides a central focal point for the room. In the kitchen, the clients desired a monochrome theme to maintain a sense of tradition. Elizabeth delivered a modern interpretation of the classic black and white kitchen typically found in these historical homes, ensuring it was fresh yet sympathetic to the house's original character. To manage costs effectively, she installed new cabinet fronts onto the existing frames and overlaid the old tiles to create a new splashback. The design incorporates visual interest with large Spanish lidded jars placed atop the wall cabinets. The overall design philosophy aimed to create a 'home-from-home' feel, providing a sense of familiarity for the British clients, reminiscent of an English country home, while embracing the unique architectural and cultural context of Singapore. #InteriorDesign #EnglishCountryHouse #TropicalDesign #HomeRenovation #SingaporeHomes #ChintzDecor #RattanFurniture #ColonialArchitecture #ElizabethHayDesign

This article highlights the transformation of an 18th-century thatched cottage in Wiltshire by Susan and Phil Spurling, showcasing how they infused it with timeless rural charm using vintage finds. Susan, a veterinary technician from Wisconsin, and Phil, a retired audio engineer, settled in England in 2014, fulfilling Susan's lifelong dream of owning a picturesque cottage. The couple embarked on an extensive search for a period property that retained original features and met Susan's specific requirements, including a pantry, a kitchen-diner large enough for a farmhouse table, a living room with a fireplace and bookshelves, and an outdoor space for gardening. After a year of searching, they found a structurally sound but dark and dated cottage that had been rethatched in 2012. Upon moving in, they faced the challenge of fitting Susan's antique furniture, which was accustomed to her previous home's 10-foot ceilings, into the cottage's smaller rooms. This necessitated creative adjustments, such as shortening furniture legs and cutting into the floor for a kitchen dresser. The couple reconfigured the space by reinstating the kitchen to its original central location, which now provides a warm welcome, and transforming the previous kitchen into a dream pantry. The pantry features a porcelain 1940s sink found on eBay and shelving built by Phil using reclaimed wood from Beechfield Reclamation. Susan's decorating style, a blend of English country, 1940s Americana, and French vintage with a touch of bohemian flair, was adapted to the cottage's unique characteristics. Selecting paint colors proved challenging due to the cottage's small windows and varying light, but she ultimately chose shades like Dulux's Overtly Olive and Valspar's Milk and Honey for the kitchen, and Valspar's Sunny Bordeaux for the sitting room. The sitting room's floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, installed by Phil, maximize storage and contribute to a cozy reading atmosphere. The sofa in the sitting room was an antique shop find with original upholstery, complemented by a Union Jack pillow and a blue plaid throw. To address the challenge of small spaces and awkward angles, Susan adopted creative storage solutions, including bespoke floor-to-ceiling shelving, Sheila Maids, pot rails, and rustic wicker baskets. She emphasizes the importance of utilizing vertical space in smaller rooms. Open shelving proudly displays her extensive collection of antiques, vintage finds, cherished books, and old china, many sourced from boot sales and The Emporium in Hungerford. The bedroom features walls papered with Susie Watson’s Shalini Rose design, an antique French bed from eBay with a self-made canopy, and an antique French chair. The exterior was refreshed with a custom paint color for the doors and window frames. The article also highlights the importance of incorporating personal touches and cherished items to create a truly personalized and comfortable living space. Susan's journey showcases how thoughtful renovation, thrifty vintage acquisitions, and a keen eye for design can transform an old property into a cherished home filled with character and warmth, proving that her teenage dream indeed came true. The cottage now boasts a beautiful garden with a patio area suitable for alfresco tea parties, further enhancing its rural charm. #ThatchedCottage #CountryStyle #HomeTransformation #VintageDecor #PeriodProperty #InteriorDesign #DIYHome #AntiqueCollecting #SmallSpaceSolutions

The article showcases the 1799 Colonial-style cottage of interior designer Kari McCabe and architect Nate McBride in Stonington, Connecticut. The couple, who previously summered in the area, found this property in 2018. It had already undergone necessary renovations to the foundation and electrical systems, preserving its original character, including fireplaces, exposed beams, and rustic chestnut and oak floors. The home is situated amidst farmland, offering a serene, country living experience despite being only 10 minutes from the water. The renovation focused on infusing the cottage with personal touches, largely drawing from Kari's Scandinavian heritage and a collection of vintage family heirlooms. This approach involved incorporating Swedish rugs and textiles, along with a palette of vibrant colors and cheerful patterns, transforming the space into a joyful year-round residence. The exterior of the home was updated from a moss-green to a bright white, complemented by a blue front door and natural wood window frames. The side porch, now the main entrance, features a vintage Norwegian flag and a dog statue, reflecting family history and a playful nod to their Scottish terrier. The mudroom serves multiple functions as an entry and laundry room, designed with a waterproof rug and vibrant indoor-outdoor fabric curtains to conceal utility areas. The main living space, originally the primary bedroom, was expanded by removing a wall. It features a blend of high-end and affordable decor, such as an Isamu Noguchi paper lamp alongside IKEA bookshelves and vintage rattan furniture. The room is further adorned with a vintage Swedish rug, patterned textiles, and naive art from a Maine artist. Another living area combines sleek mid-century modern furniture with rustic wood beams and floors, creating an eclectic aesthetic. The dining room is distinctively decorated with an Indian dhurrie as a table covering, complementing the nature-inspired Josef Frank wallpaper and vintage pitchers on the mantel. Modern elements like a midcentury credenza and a Danish pendant light are integrated. The kitchen's breakfast nook offers views through ample windows and is furnished with a vintage trestle table and bentwood chairs, accented by Swedish pottery, a Scandinavian pendant, and a Josef Frank textile pillow. The kitchen itself, once dark, was brightened with pale gray cabinetry, open shelving, and modern lighting, removing elements that obstructed views. The primary bedroom features all-over wallpaper on both walls and ceiling, creating a cohesive, cocoon-like atmosphere, further enhanced by white-painted floors. Color is introduced through a patterned duvet, a handwoven Swedish rug, and artwork by Cornelia Foss. The guest bedroom continues the vibrant theme with garden-inspired wallpaper, a striped blanket, and a checked duvet, alongside a still life by Louisa Matthíasdóttir and a vintage Eames chair. The bathroom boasts botanical wallpaper, vintage French sconces, and a Swedish mirror, referencing the natural surroundings. Nate's office includes a vintage sawhorse desk, an Eames plywood chair, and an industrial lamp, while Kari's office features a Josef Frank curtain and family mementos. Finally, a newly added deck is furnished with vintage metal Woodard furniture and other collected pieces, extending the home's unique, collected aesthetic outdoors. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecorating #HouseTour #CoastalLiving #VintageDecor #ScandinavianDesign #ConnecticutHomes #Renovation #Wallpaper #EclecticStyle

The article details the meticulous restoration and redecoration of a late-17th and early-18th-century manor house in Wiltshire, England, owned by Esther Cayzer-Colvin and her husband, Jamie. Cayzer-Colvin, whose family includes influential figures in design and aristocracy like Nancy Lancaster and Deborah, Duchess of Devonshire, has imbued the historic home with a unique blend of classic and contemporary, colorful, and comfortable aesthetics. Despite her modest claims of 'plagiarizing' ideas, her approach to decorating is described as highly personal and creative, drawing inspiration from her heritage while asserting her own distinct style. Upon acquiring the Grade II listed redbrick manor in 2005, the house was in disrepair, necessitating extensive renovations including reroofing, replastering, replumbing, and rewiring. A new drawing room wing was also added. The interiors are a curated collection of art, paintings, and furniture, much of which is either custom-made by creative friends or inherited, reflecting a life lived and memories collected. The few pieces from Jamie's family survived a fire at his childhood home, Tangley House, adding sentimental value to the new collection. Cayzer-Colvin's decision to personally oversee the decoration, rather than hiring a professional, ensures a cohesive and personal signature throughout the house. Her attention to detail is evident in various bespoke elements: manganese tiles from Delft were commissioned for the kitchen fireplace to complement an antique porcelain duck; a specific 'cooking-apple' green hue was achieved for the sitting room walls through careful mixing with a specialist decorative painter; and de Gournay chinoiserie wallpaper in the entrance hall was chosen for its silver tones and lack of man-made objects or blue, creating an uplifting, airy feel. The four-acre garden also reflects Cayzer-Colvin's design philosophy, developed with friend Frances Rasch. Lacking distant views, she created a series of intimate 'rooms' using yew and beech hedges, effectively turning the garden inward to form its own microcosm. This design seamlessly integrates the indoors and outdoors. Influenced by her grandmother Nancy Lancaster's Virginia roots, Cayzer-Colvin incorporated American colonial elements, such as two white clapboard pavilions near the swimming pool, inspired by a garden building at Colonial Williamsburg. The ogee shape of their cedar-shingled roofs is echoed in the green-oak fruit cages in the kitchen garden, reflecting a preference for simplicity over grand statements. The article showcases various rooms including the entry, drawing room, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, pantry, and multiple bedrooms, detailing specific design choices and furnishings, many with personal histories or notable designers. #WiltshireEstate #HistoricHome #EnglishCountryStyle #InteriorDesign #GardenDesign #NancyLancasterInfluence #EstherCayzerColvin #CustomDecor #RenovationProject