Be inspired by Sarah’s country-style home in Hampshire

Daniela Tippett, owner and director of Casabela Interiors, transformed a holiday home in Exeter, NSW Southern Highlands, into a sophisticated farmhouse named Kerloch. The property, set on eight hectares, offers a tranquil escape from Sydney's urban bustle, allowing the family to reconnect with nature and each other. Daniela and her husband Aaron purchased the home for its "beautiful bones" and expansive landscape, including two hectares of eucalyptus trees that attract butterflies. The renovation aimed to soften the home's original terracotta, brick, and timber palette, emphasizing the surrounding views. Working with architecture firm Place Studio, Daniela made several key modifications to the main dwelling. A music room was converted into a fourth bedroom with an ensuite, while the kitchen was opened up to create a seamless flow into the lounge, dining area, and a formal living room that extends to a conservatory and bar. A previously poky storeroom and laundry were reimagined as a user-friendly butler's pantry. In the guesthouse, a second bedroom and kitchen were added, providing a dedicated space for the Tippett sons and their friends. The exterior of Kerloch, initially very Tuscan in style, was refreshed with Porter's Paints Popcorn. A new outdoor kitchen, featuring a pizza oven made from recycled bricks and polished concrete, caters to Aaron's passion for pizza and provides a focal point for entertaining. The outdoor amenities were further enhanced with the resurfacing of the tennis court and pool, now accompanied by a new cabana, making the estate an ideal setting for teenagers. The garden also boasts a vegetable patch and a rose garden, with future plans to expand fruit tree cultivation. The renovation was completed in approximately eight months, but Daniela envisions continuous evolution for the property. Future plans include adding glamping pods to expand accommodation options and designing a large shed with a kitchen and bathroom to host bigger dinner parties and outdoor events. This new space could also be adapted for yoga or health retreats. For the time being, Kerloch is available for bookings through platforms like Airbnb. The Tippett family intends to maintain Kerloch as a cherished family estate for generations to come, embodying their commitment to the idyllic property. #SouthernHighlands #FarmhouseDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #FamilyRetreat #LuxuryHome #HolidayHome #CasabelaInteriors

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 provides an in-depth look at the reconstruction and interior design of a classic Southern farmhouse in Nashville, Tennessee, developed to serve as a multi-generational family home. The project involved a collaborative effort between Interior Designer Barbara Westbrook of Westbrook Interiors, builder Huseby Homes, architect Stephen Fuller, and landscape architect Page Landscape. The inspiration for the new farmhouse came from the original, dilapidated house on the property, which possessed a historic facade and classic architecture. Despite its condition, the original structure guided the design towards a timeless, historic feel. Key external features include front and back porches designed to encourage relaxation and engagement with the surroundings. Clapboard siding and an asymmetrical footprint were incorporated to give the house the appearance of having evolved over generations, creating a sense of history that makes visitors wonder about its age. Intentional property placement and orientation were crucial in the home's design, with every window and angle carefully planned to maximize views of the landscape, including the property's red barn. The porches add dimension, and elements such as brickwork, latticework, and a circular drive contribute to its historic aesthetic. Inside, the home balances luxury with comfort, featuring elegant yet casual spaces. Barbara Westbrook emphasized that no room was designed to be overly precious, ensuring every family member, including children, could comfortably use the spaces. The homeowners favored classic design, evident in the traditional elements throughout, which harmoniously blend with the rural setting without resorting to contrasting styles. The center hall, upon entry, features wainscoting and a chair rail painted in a monochromatic palette of cream and ivory, creating a formal yet welcoming atmosphere. An oriental rug offsets the pristine walls, designed to make the house feel lived-in. Simple brass sconces further enhance the traditional ambiance, mimicking the glow of candles. Throughout the home, wood antiques, particularly those with a walnut finish, are prominent. The designer encouraged selecting antiques based on personal affection rather than matching wood grains, citing Thomas Jefferson's approach to mixing styles. This philosophy results in a layered look with different wood grains and fabrics, contributing to the home's accessibility and casual charm. Heavily textured cotton and linen fabrics, along with checks and stripes, reinforce a collected, country-inspired aesthetic. Elements like old quilts, classic spool chairs, and iron lamps with pleated linen shades are used to evoke a sense of the past, regardless of their actual age. The interior designer also suggested integrating lightly refurbished vintage pieces to add character and prevent the space from feeling too formal. The kitchen serves as a central gathering point, equipped with island stools and Windsor chairs around the breakfast table, facilitating family togetherness. An adjacent dining area on the porch further extends the capacity for communal meals and relaxation, offering views of the rolling hills. While the living spaces predominantly feature neutral, warm tones, hints of color are strategically introduced to add vibrancy and surprise. A blue dining room, gray-and-white checkerboard flooring in the main bathroom, and colorful quilts in the bedrooms contribute to an approachable atmosphere that tempers the elegant scale of the rooms. The overarching goal of the project was to create a practical and beautiful family home where memories could be made for generations to come. #SouthernFarmhouse #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #TraditionalArchitecture #TennesseeHomes #FamilyHome #RuralLiving #HistoricRevival #HomeDecor

This article highlights the transformation of a 19th-century Grade II-listed barn in Somerset into a unique and stylish home. The owner, a co-founder of a cocktail bar, a consultant for Harvey Nichols, and an interior designer, initially converted the barn in 1989. After her son left for boarding school and she moved to London for work, it served as a weekend retreat. In 2012, inspired by a spa's rustic aesthetic featuring distressed paneling, exposed stonework, and industrial lighting, she embarked on a significant renovation. This decision was also prompted by impending planning permission expiry for an extension and an outbuilding. The renovation began with the addition of a garden room at one end, designed with bi-fold glass doors to maximize natural light and views. To maintain an open and airy feel, especially with the barn's vaulted ceilings, existing beams and ceilings were removed from other areas of the property. Many of these salvaged beams were repurposed into wall panels and window shutters, showcasing a commitment to recycling materials. The integration of unusual reclamation yard finds contributed to the home's distinctive interior. The kitchen features an industrial vibe created by steel cladding on original structural beams, complemented by a feature wall adorned with reclaimed Parisian tin ceiling tiles. This bold choice is softened by repainted Shaker-style units with new handles and vintage bar stools from a hair salon. The open-plan dining room is brightened by floor-to-ceiling windows, and its furniture, including a table and chairs made from elm and oak sourced from the farm, provides an ideal space for entertaining. A large dresser was upcycled with blue-grey paint, and a Turkish bazaar rug adds warmth to the area. In the garden room, the owner introduced vibrant colors through vintage French day beds re-upholstered in a mix of bright pink, red, and purple linen, accented with cushions made from vintage rugs. Sliding-door shelves serve as an ingenious room divider, seamlessly blending with the beamed ceiling. The living room reflects a Provencal barn aesthetic, with large windows, French-inspired furniture, and textures from vintage flour sack upholstery and a sheepskin rug. Reclaimed elm from the farm forms a paneled feature wall, and a copper and wood floor lamp adds industrial chic. The study exemplifies reclaimed style, with a desk clad in copper, a matching copper phone, and a filing cabinet constructed from scrap wood, copper pipe handles, and corrugated tin panels on barn door-style sliding hinges. A rustic wooden chair on wheels completes the look. The guest bedrooms embrace a rustic French theme. One features wooden floorboards transformed into distressed duck egg blue shutters and plank-effect wallpaper, with a French-style bed and vintage flour sack cushions. The main bedroom boasts a feature wall made from reclaimed floorboards and window shutters from old kitchen beams, creating a log cabin feel. A cane bedhead, faux fur throw, and sack valance enhance the rustic elegance. Another guest bedroom incorporates copper tones, dark wood furniture, and a leather bed, harmonizing with wooden beams and oak paneling. A colorful silk throw adds a pop of color, and a blanket box provides storage. The bathroom features a period feel with an elegant roll-top bath and traditional tongue-and-groove paneling painted in a soothing grey. The wall above the paneling is white, and vintage-style mirrors are strategically placed to reflect natural light, maintaining a bright and spacious ambiance. #BarnConversion #SomersetHome #InteriorDesign #RusticIndustrialStyle #ReclaimedMaterials #HomeRenovation #ShakerKitchen #FrenchChic #EclecticDecor

The article presents a detailed tour of designer Sarah Solis's Los Angeles farmhouse, highlighting the extensive renovation process and the unique design philosophy behind the modern-meets-rustic aesthetic. Initially planned as a minor refresh, the project evolved into a comprehensive remodel, transforming the 1954-built structure into a space that seamlessly blends natural elements with contemporary design. Solis's design approach is deeply rooted in the concept of wabi-sabi, embracing imperfection and authenticity. This is evident in her choice of materials, such as wood wall paneling with natural "knicks and dents," exposed Douglas Fir beams salvaged from a Kansas barn, and reclaimed European white oak wood flooring, all selected for their inherent beauty and inconsistencies. The overall palette relies on variations of neutrals and natural wood, creating a calming and serene environment that serves as a foundation for carefully curated, bold decorative pieces. The renovation involved significant architectural changes while preserving the original character of the home. The floor plan was reconfigured to establish an elegant and functional flow, separating the children's bedrooms from the primary suite. A central hallway was introduced to create a sense of calm and expand the perception of space. High vaulted ceilings in communal areas are contrasted with lower ceilings in more intimate spaces like the dining room and library, which are painted in darker tones to foster a cozy atmosphere. Unique architectural features, such as bay windows and reading nooks in every bedroom, were preserved and enhanced, including a built-in banquette in the kitchen. The heart of the home, the great room, was expanded with a vaulted ceiling and increased square footage, providing a central hub for entertaining and gathering. Vertical wall paneling and additional beams were incorporated to add visual interest without the heaviness of traditional moldings. The children's bathroom also features wall paneling, maintaining consistency in the design narrative. A distinctive aspect of the property is its expansive acre of land situated within the city. While the single-story, sprawling California ranch house appears unassuming from the front, the interior and backyard reveal a magical retreat. The property includes a charming guest house with an outdoor shower enclosed in reclaimed barn wood, a tennis court, and an area dubbed "The Farm," complete with raised garden beds and a chicken coop. Solis's goal was to create a home that transports its inhabitants away from the bustling Los Angeles lifestyle, offering a sense of escape and tranquility. Her decorating advice emphasizes the importance of not overcrowding a space, allowing it to breathe, and exercising restraint in combining beloved pieces to maintain balance. #SarahSolis #CaliforniaFarmhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RusticModern #WabiSabi #NaturalMaterials #ArchitecturalDesign #LosAngeles

This article highlights the renovation of a 1990s Cape Cod-style house in Atlanta, transformed from a traditional exterior into a transitional interior with a focus on modern living preferences. Architect Frances Zook and interior designer Judy Tillman Long collaborated on the project, aiming to achieve better flow, increased natural light, and reduced clutter, reflecting a contemporary desire for quality over sheer square footage. The homeowners, attracted by the charming cedar-shake exterior and wooded yard, sought a refreshed internal aesthetic. Key structural changes initiated by the architect included raising room openings to eight feet and simplifying doors to create a more spacious feel. The kitchen underwent a significant redesign, with walls removed between it and the family room to establish an open-plan layout. This area now features a built-in banquette and a butler’s pantry. Architectural details were updated to align with current trends, such as the incorporation of vertical planks in the front entry hall and master bedroom, introducing simple textures. Judy Tillman Long focused on lightening the home's color palette to ensure cohesive flow throughout the living spaces. A unifying 'greige' color, specifically Olympic Mountains (Benjamin Moore 971), was selected. This neutral tone was derived from the kitchen's Pearla Venata countertop stone and extended to the breakfast room, living room, and family room walls. The design also aimed to cater to the wife's preference for casual furniture and light colors, suitable for both large and small gatherings. Specific design elements and furnishings are detailed throughout the house. The foyer features a classic Darlana Lantern from Circa Lighting, a vintage oriental rug, and a sideboard from Joseph Konrad. The kitchen is equipped with swivel bar stools covered in Colefax & Fowler plaid fabric. The family room showcases handmade green lamps by Charlie West flanking a linen sofa, alongside an expressive painting from Gregg Irby. A custom trestle table from Nottingham Antiques, stained in a soft grey, complements the banquette, with art by Lynn Sanders from Gregg Irby Gallery. The dining room includes a round, expandable table from Chaddock, enhanced with silk curtains by Vervain, Samuel & Sons trim, and acrylic rods. A gold-accented chandelier adds a touch of glamor. The living room features a new limestone mantel from François & Co., a velvet sofa, and graphic pillows made from Schumacher fabric. In the master bedroom, planking on the walls, painted in Benjamin Moore’s ‘White Dove,’ adds warmth, while blue linen curtains with black-out lining ensure a dark environment for sleeping. The master bath was redesigned to maximize natural light through additional windows, featuring Calcutta Borghini marble countertops and heavy crystal sconces from Circa Lighting. Silver grass cloth walls by Schumacher contribute to an elegant glow. Even the laundry area received a chic update with soft blue tile extending to the ceiling. A surprising element of the home is the husband's custom garage, designed to hold four cars with the aid of a car lift. This space serves as a dedicated area for his car hobby, complete with a fan and entertainment options. An additional basement area provides further storage for cars and includes a great room with a car simulator. This contrast between the refined interior and the specialized garage highlights the personalized nature of the renovation, which accommodates individual interests without impacting the home’s overall aesthetic. The article concludes by emphasizing that the home's exterior does not reveal the unique interior spaces, adding to its charm. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SouthernHomes #CapeCodStyle #TransitionalDesign #NeutralPalette #KitchenRemodel #CustomGarage #ArchitecturalUpdates #AtlantaRealEstate

The Forager’s Cottage, a 1930s Australian weatherboard bungalow, is home to Helen May Petschel, a retired French homewares dealer. The cottage, steeped in history, showcases a deep appreciation for the past, with original features meticulously preserved by Helen over four decades. Golden autumn sunlight illuminates the interiors at 6 AM, highlighting the seasonal arrangements made from berries and foliage gathered from the garden. Helen expresses her preference for antique and vintage items, particularly European and rural primitive decor, over modern living, emphasizing that everything she acquires is from a bygone era. Her philosophy centers on authenticity, rustic charm, and utility, filling every space with pieces that hold a lifetime of memories. The kitchen is described as the most enchanting space, featuring an old enamel sink, original to the cottage, with a wooden draining board and a green pressed tin splashback that adds period charm. It is filled with well-worn pots and pans, chopping boards, and colorful jars of bottled fruits. Instead of a fitted kitchen, Helen opted for freestanding antique furniture when she and her late husband, Steve, purchased the property. This choice allowed for flexible arrangements over the years with minimal cost. A 1930 original larder remains intact, serving as storage for Helen’s utensils and food. Each item in the cottage carries personal significance, such as an antique dresser in the kitchen, a Christmas gift from Steve, which Helen connects to Beatrix Potter books. This dresser displays her collection of old wares, butter molds, breadboards, earthenware jugs, and bowls, all sourced from Europe. Helen, the second generation to live in the cottage, shares a profound connection to her modest home, which has provided solace through significant personal losses. In 2001, she and Steve lost their 19-year-old son, Phil, to a brain aneurysm, and in 2021, Steve, her husband of 41 years, passed away. Born in England, Helen experienced a transient childhood, frequently moving and never truly having a stable home. A brief, joyful period with her grandfather in Broad Chalke, Wiltshire, ignited her passion for English cottage decor, as the Australian bungalow reminded her of his Tudor cottage. The cottage’s original features contribute to its ethereal atmosphere. Helen recalls her first encounter with the property as stepping into a "time capsule," with everything preserved from 1930, including an old wood stove, a claw-foot bathtub, an old wooden draining board with an enamel sink, and a lead splashback, all of which remain today. In the dining room, an old seamstress’s worktable is repurposed as a dining table, set against Dulux’s ‘Vintage Green’ walls. The living room also features Dulux’s ‘Antique Green,’ enhancing its heritage ambiance. Helen finds joy in simple routines, like collecting pinecones for the evening fire, and appreciates the scent of pine and the sound of wind in the trees during this season. Her interiors, though unpolished, possess a raw charm, showcasing a lifetime of collected treasures that reflect her love for authentic vintage design. Despite its cracks and original paint, Helen chooses not to modernize the cottage, viewing it as a comforting refuge that has supported her through life’s tragedies and heartaches. #EnglishCountryLiving #VintageDecor #AntiqueFurniture #CottageInteriors #PreservedHistory #RusticCharm #HeirloomTreasures #Homemaking #InteriorDesign

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

This blog post presents 50 inspiring farmhouse bedroom ideas designed to create a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. The farmhouse aesthetic, celebrated for its timeless appeal, is suitable for various rooms, with a particular focus on bedrooms in this article. The featured ideas cater to decorating or refreshing primary, guest, and kids' bedrooms. The article delves into different styles within the farmhouse theme. Rustic farmhouse bedroom ideas emphasize textural layers and sentimental elements, such as heirloom quilts and vintage finds. In contrast, modern farmhouse bedroom ideas are characterized by simpler designs, clean lines, and painted shiplap. For those working with a limited budget, cozy farmhouse bedroom ideas incorporate creative and affordable touches like flea-market artwork and layered rugs. Key design elements and suggestions for paint color, wall decor, lighting, and furniture are provided to help readers achieve a comfortable and inviting bedroom space. Several specific ideas are highlighted. For instance, incorporating rustic elements involves exposed hand-hewn logs, barnwood window trims, and unfinished doors with wooden hardware, complemented by marble lamps and pastoral paintings. For smaller spaces, twin beds and nature-inspired wallpaper can maximize style. The classic country color combination of blue and white is showcased through block-print pillows, painted vases, and striped quilts, setting a serene and cohesive tone. Further suggestions include drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape, such as using green and white palettes and botanical prints. Embracing country charms involves elements like gingham draperies, beadboard walls, and vintage metal twin beds. Spindle beds are recommended as heirloom-worthy furniture pieces. Creative solutions for worn floors include painting them for an economical refresh. Accent walls can be created using reclaimed wood, while cafe curtains offer privacy and a budget-friendly way to introduce favorite fabrics. Personal touches like monograms on bolster pillows or stenciled side tables add character. The article also encourages mixing punchy patterns, featuring flea market art and vintage finds for a collected-over-time aesthetic. Understated elegance can be achieved through humble textiles like grain sack pillows and linen Roman shades. Hand-stitched quilts are highlighted for adding historical charm. Painting walls in pretty colors like soft blues can transform a room, and repurposing antique pieces as headboards is suggested for unique design. Mimicking architectural elements, such as floral wallpaper echoing weathered ceiling beams, integrates the room with its structure. Thoughtful guest room touches include adjustable sconces and antique side tables. Preserving natural patina on wood and curating vintage art collections further enhance the farmhouse feel, providing a comprehensive guide to designing a charming and comfortable farmhouse bedroom.

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

Sarah Southwell, a former handbag designer, has transitioned her creative flair from fashion to interior design, establishing her studio in 2020 after a series of successful home renovations in London. Her most ambitious project to date is her family home, a 21-room Grade II-listed manor house located in the Somerset Levels. This extensive renovation showcases Southwell's distinctive approach to country style, characterized by a blend of elegance, eccentricity, and a 'generational layering' philosophy that expertly combines old and new elements. Sarah and her husband, Nick, acquired the manor in 2021, moving from London to provide their three sons with a more spacious environment. Despite being warned by the estate agent about the significant renovation required, the couple was drawn to the property's original features, such as its mullioned windows and historic front door. The renovation process was comprehensive, addressing issues ranging from hundred-year-old plumbing and crumbling plaster to the complete absence of a heating system. With the assistance of approximately 20 local tradespeople and funds from their previous London property sale, they undertook the extensive overhaul, including replastering all rooms with traditional lime, a necessity for listed buildings. Southwell's design aesthetic prioritizes a 'perfectly imperfect' look. She achieved this by using lime-based paint throughout the house, mimicking the mottled tones of plaster. The kitchen features Bauwerk’s Ibiza limewash, reclaimed pine floorboards, British Standard units, and Arabescato marble worktops, creating a contemporary yet classic feel. An adjoining utility space adds a playful touch with units painted in deVOL’s Scullery Yellow. The home is adorned with unique finds from flea markets and antique fairs, reflecting Sarah's passion for vintage items, such as a Transylvanian hand-painted folk art cupboard in the playroom and 18th-century Indian doors repurposed for the master bathroom. Creative and whimsical elements are evident throughout the manor, particularly in the children's spaces. The bedroom shared by Sarah's two eldest sons boasts a circus-themed ceiling painted by Eugenia Barrios Osborne, complemented by custom-made bed canopies and antique furniture sourced from local dealers. The color palette in this room includes Farrow & Ball's Rectory Red and Babouche mustard-yellow. A notable feature of the home is its incorporation of 'hidden nooks and secret doorways,' a reflection of Southwell's design philosophy that a house, much like a handbag, benefits from concealed compartments. An example is a hidden cubbyhole in a former attic, accessible via a wooden ladder, designed to create a magical space for her sons. Additionally, a hidden drinks bar is cleverly camouflaged by wallpaper in the downstairs lavatory, adding a surprising element for adult guests. Following the completion of this significant renovation, Sarah Southwell now leverages her expertise to assist other clients in realizing their design aspirations, operating with a comprehensive approach to interior styling. #InteriorDesign #ManorRenovation #CountryStyle #HistoricHome #LimeWashPaint #VintageFinds #HiddenSpaces #FamilyHome #EclecticDecor

Annie Sullivan Cobb discovered Shelter Island, New York, in her early 20s and immediately felt a connection to its lush environment and historic Heights neighborhood. This sentiment was shared by her British husband, Oliver. Over the years, during their visits, they consistently admired a particular Victorian house, especially its sprawling hydrangeas visible from the side garden. This circa-1880 property, which Annie described as enchanted, eventually came on the market, and the couple purchased it in 2012, just before their first daughter's birthday. They continue to reside in Brooklyn full-time. Initially, they rented out the Shelter Island house due to the demands of raising two young children in Brooklyn. Building a local community also took time, a process aided by their children's summer camps on the island. A decade after their purchase, the couple embarked on an extensive renovation. This included installing central air-conditioning, adding a new patio, and constructing a mudroom and breakfast nook adjacent to the galley kitchen. Annie, who had recently co-founded an interior design business, Sullivan Matthews, with Saara Matthews, oversaw the design. She aimed to maintain the home's original gingerbread Victorian details, such as the intricate gable trim and existing floors, while incorporating modern elements and wallpaper in certain areas. The design approach for the house leaned towards an English country aesthetic, influenced by a friend's London home and featuring products from British brands. They integrated classic Shaker cabinetry and unlacquered brass accessories from DeVol. The kitchen floors were painted with Farrow & Ball’s Sardine, a blue hue, color-matched by Kirby’s Paints, a company known for durable marine-grade finishes. The renovation included a playful design decision: a closet between the kitchen and dining room was transformed into a secret bar. This idea originated from a designer friend, Starrett Hoyt Ringbom, during a visit. Annie initially painted the nook blue-green but ultimately chose Farrow & Ball’s Sulking Room Pink, complete with a wine fridge/ice maker and a bow handle from Beata Heuman. Oliver, Annie's husband, took charge of transforming a nearby closet into his own domain, painting it in Farrow & Ball’s Churlish Green. This closet now houses his record collection and a vintage turntable set into a soapstone counter. His passion for hi-fi extends to the living room, where 1960s KLH Model 6 speakers enhance the atmosphere for social gatherings. During the quieter winter months, the family retreats to the island, enjoying stews, fires, and games indoors, now made more comfortable with central air. Addressing the lack of built-in storage typical of 1880s homes, Annie found creative solutions. She repurposed an antique decorative trunk from Cape Cod for linens and customized a basic IKEA headboard by wrapping it in foam and a Moroccan wedding blanket. When their bedside tables were upgraded to sleek Componibili storage units, the old Victorian tables were moved to the porch to serve as pedestals for potted ferns. The family's plant collection grew significantly during COVID-19, becoming a noticeable feature of the home. The dining table was relocated to the new garden patio for privacy, a response to passersby who often mistook their porch-side meals for a restaurant. Despite the public nature of their home, the Sullivans embrace the community feel, often inviting neighbors and their children inside, fostering an old-fashioned sense of hospitality. #HomeTour #VictorianHome #ShelterIsland #InteriorDesign #Renovation #EnglishCountryStyle #DesignInspiration #DIY #FamilyHome

This article details the interior design project undertaken by ELLE DECOR A-List Titan Sheila Bridges for a New York City couple's new 8,000-square-foot house in Vermont. The couple, enamored with Vermont's natural beauty and architectural heritage, decided to build a new residence on a sprawling 240-acre plot despite the initial challenge of accessibility. They selected Bridges for her expertise in layering and texture, a skill they admired after seeing her work featured in ELLE DECOR. The house, designed by Burlington-based TruexCullins and completed in 2023, is a Greek Revival structure mirroring traditional 19th-century New England connected farms. The layout includes a central rectangular section with the husband’s library, an office, and a parlor for the wife, with four bedrooms upstairs. What began as an occasional ski trip destination has evolved into a frequent retreat for the couple, their adult children, and friends. A double-height, barn-like space with undecorated walls serves as a venue for larger gatherings, while the great room and kitchen form the heart of daily family life, with the primary suite located above. Bridges's design approach was uniquely inspired by the distinct leafy-green hue of the Vermont license plate, a color prominently featured in the Morris & Co. Blackthorn Autumn wallpaper, which covers the kitchen cabinets and extends into the great room. This choice reflects Bridges’s deep connection to nature, drawing from her childhood experiences in Vermont and her personal residences in the Hudson Valley and Iceland, where she keeps horses. The flora and fauna theme is pervasive throughout the house. Barn swallows adorn a downstairs powder room, while vines and butterflies embellish another. Custom Roman shades in the great room also feature animal motifs. Upstairs, bedrooms display cheeky prints, with one showcasing prancing deer and another depicting skiers zooming down slopes. Bridges emphasizes her commitment to originality, stating that in her 30 years as a designer, she strives never to reuse the same pattern or textile. This dedication to bespoke design is evident in the wife’s parlor, where the focus shifts to botanical prints on an earthy chinoiserie grass-cloth toile by Scalamandré, intentionally designed to be pattern-light. The primary suite, which offers the best views, is conceived as a serene, green sanctuary, underscoring Bridges’s desire for the new build to convey a sense of history rooted not just in human narratives but also in nature, acknowledging the land's past as a forest. This story was originally featured in the Winter 2025 issue of ELLE DECOR. #SheilaBridges #VermontDesign #InteriorDesign #MountainHouse #ArchitecturalHeritage #NatureInspiredDesign #CustomInteriors #PatternAndColor #ElleDecor

The New York architecture firm Sawyer|Berson, known for its stylistic versatility in designing Hamptons' residences, undertook a unique project for Richard Shemtov, CEO and founder of furniture company Dune. Shemtov envisioned a modestly scaled weekend retreat in Southampton for his family, inspired by traditional gable-roof barns but executed in a rigorously pared-down style. Key inspirations for the design included Herzog & de Meuron’s Parrish Art Museum and John Pawson’s Baron House in Sweden. This project, while seemingly simple, presented an exercise in discipline for architects Brian Sawyer and John Berson, requiring careful coordination of the plan and section to create a cohesive composition. To achieve a crisp silhouette for the 8,000-square-foot house, one of its two main levels was entirely submerged below-grade. The weathered-gray zinc standing-seam roof was designed to be flush with the perimeter edges, featuring hidden gutters. The exterior is characterized by expansive 10-foot-high, black-painted aluminum-framed glass panels, many of which are operable, along with a distinctive recycled-glass brick cladding. The ground floor accommodates an open living/dining area, a kitchen, and four bedrooms. The basement level, designed to be column-free to house multiple entertaining areas, Shemtov’s home office, a laundry room, a gym, and a kitchenette, added significant engineering complexity to the project. The design evolved to include a custom-fabricated carport and a half-level attic den, which also functions as a guest bedroom. The construction ultimately took nearly three years and exceeded the initial budget, but Shemtov affirmed it was the house they desired. Richard Shemtov himself took on the role of interior designer, a first for him on a project of this scale. The interior design process was meticulous, with every inch carefully considered. Architectural detailing was minimized, focusing on simple baseboard trim and custom millwork. In the double-height living area, Shemtov designed a striking fireplace surround in wenge and built-in bookshelves with a hand-glazed faux-linen finish, backed with mirror or hair-on hide for added texture. The ground level features 8-inch-wide pine floor planks, wire-brushed and treated with a milky glaze for a unique tactile experience. Most built-ins, seating, and tables were produced by Dune, utilizing a mix of existing collection pieces and new designs, some of which have since been incorporated into Dune's product line. Examples include an amoeba-shaped ottoman/table upholstered in harlequin-patterned coral leather and a Donald Judd-inspired teal-aluminum sideboard. The lower level, dedicated to recreation, features exuberant Dune sectionals in a rusty-hued chenille and a lemon-suede, channel-tufted circular model inspired by Pierre Paulin. The artwork within the home predominantly consists of personal collections and pieces by friends. A notable acquisition is a Bernardo Siciliano painting of a restaurant interior, which resonated with Shemtov as Dune had previously created a custom banquette for the very restaurant depicted. To introduce natural light into the lower level, Sawyer|Berson, responsible for the landscaping, created a courtyard garden. This garden features amphitheater-style concrete terraces adorned with various potted plants, a concept refined by Shemtov. The rear grounds are dominated by a minimalist swimming pool, framed by porcelain-tile coping and a precisely graded lawn. An outdoor kitchen, a poolside dining pergola, and a covered terrace offer additional family gathering spaces. Shemtov envisions the home serving as a cherished retreat for his family for many years, describing the entire project as a profound labor of love. #SouthamptonHome #SawyerBerson #DuneFurniture #RichardShemtov #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #HamptonsArchitecture #ModernBarnStyle #LuxuryResidence #LandscapeArchitecture

This article explores restaurateur Keith McNally's Martha's Vineyard farm, detailing his approach to creating a home that feels authentic and lived-in rather than overly designed. McNally, known for his success in the New York City restaurant scene with establishments like The Odeon and Café Luxembourg, purchased Windy Gates Farm in Chilmark in 1991. The property spans four acres and serves as a summer retreat for McNally, his wife Alina, and their five children, providing a stark contrast to their urban life. Unlike many vacationers on Martha's Vineyard who engage in typical maritime activities, McNally dedicates his summers to working the land. His farm is home to various animals, including Berkshire, Tamworth, and Gloucester Old Spot pigs, goats, sheep, lambs, and free-range chickens and ducks. This focus on farming stems from McNally's desire to produce his own food, a need he developed after being constantly surrounded by food consumption in his restaurant career. He also enjoys cooking extensively for his family and occasional dinner parties, even venturing into making his own goat cheese. McNally's connection to Martha's Vineyard began unexpectedly in 1976. After arriving in New York from London with aspirations of filmmaking, he spontaneously altered his travel plans from Nantucket to Martha's Vineyard, drawn by the island's diverse ferry passengers. He spent that summer exploring the island by bicycle, often sleeping on the beach or in youth hostels, establishing an early, informal connection to the place. When it came to renovating Windy Gates Farm, McNally applied the same meticulous, anthropological approach he used for his restaurant designs, which were renowned for their authentic, almost theatrical ambiance. He enlisted craftsmen and electricians from his restaurant projects, alongside local talent, to ensure the cedar-shingled farmhouse appeared timeless and untouched. This renovation process was particularly therapeutic for McNally, who was undergoing a divorce at the time. His primary goal was to avoid a 'designed or polished' look, a task he noted required significant effort. The renovation involved customized adjustments, such as cutting doorframes to fit antique flea-market doors, rather than the reverse. Many of the floors and some furniture pieces were crafted from reclaimed, aged pine. The interior design reflects a rustic, simple aesthetic, with minimal decoration focusing on essentials. Art is scarce, limited to a few paintings by his late father-in-law, Albert Johnson, vintage sconces from the Brimfield market, and an Audubon Society poster. Signature McNally design elements are present, including wainscoting, wide-plank floors, tea-stained walls, and an L-shaped banquette in the kitchen, perfect for family gatherings. Furniture, including farm tables, French bistro chairs, rattan sofas, and rope beds, were sourced from local and French flea markets. A children's room features a berth-like wooden bed with a ship's helm wheel as a headboard, referencing the island's maritime heritage. The farm's self-sufficiency is a cornerstone of the McNallys' summer life. They enjoy their own bacon and ham from the pigs, and cultivate apples, peaches, plums, cherries, and a variety of berries from their orchards and gardens. The extensive vegetable garden yields fresh asparagus, Sun Gold tomatoes, cucumbers, okra, peppers, fennel, and haricots verts, contributing to a completely self-contained lifestyle where going out for food is rarely necessary. This lifestyle provides an ideal escape from the demands of city life, emphasizing a connection to nature and sustainable living. #Martha'sVineyard #FarmLife #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RusticDecor #RestaurateurHome #SustainableLiving #SummerRetreat #ArchitecturalDetail