The English Home - August 2022

The
ENGLISH Co
untr
y Speci
a
l
HOME Celebrating the essence of English style
August 2022 | Issue 210 | £4.99 | UK Edition
A COUNTRY ESCAPE
Timeless inspiration for living the dream
Royal Decorative
residences
Cherished rural
solutions
for country
retreats of the interiors of
Royal Family all sizes
EXPERT GUIDES
• Ultimate bathrooms
• Smart summer gatherings
• Fine gastropubs & inns
RESTORED & REFRESHED

Inside four idyllic homes from Georgian cottage to Elizabethan manor
Photo: PanayisPictures
24A West Street, Ashburton, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ13 7DU
Tel: 01364 653613 www.barnesofashburton.co.uk
100% Bespoke kitchen & household furniture,
sympathetically designed to work with your home’s
architecture and handmade to last a lifetime. B
ARNES
Of Ashburton Ltd
CONTENTS
AUGUST 2022
66
Notebook English homes Style inspiration
17 NEWS Our monthly digest of notable 38 PLEASING SYMMETRY A gentle 77 SITTING PRETTY Dining in a rural
people, places and products. approach to decorating helped kitchen with heart and functionality.
24 DESIGN DISCOVERIES Incorporating
update this Elizabethan manor. 78 BUCOLIC VISION Stylish designs to
splashes of colour and unique details. 48 GOTHIC REVIVAL Exuding timeless capture a quintessentially English
country house style, this expansive country house aesthetic.
30 CHINTZ & CHECK From varying scale to
adding trims, play with classic prints. home has a welcoming atmosphere. 86 THE CONSIDERED COUNTRY HOME
58 PARADISE REVEALED Visualising the Expert advice on working with period
32 RURAL COMPANIONS Animal-themed
potential led an ambitious couple to features and decorative solutions to
designs connected to pastoral life.
transform a 1960s home and garden. the practical elements of rural life.
34 THE EDIT Favourite brands, openings,
66 PASSION PROJECT A North Wessex 95 CREATING THE ULTIMATE COUNTRY
and six of the best console tables.
Downs cottage is skilfully updated with BATHROOM Create a soothing
37 SUBSCRIBE Treat a loved one or sanctuary connected to the natural
a view to future extension.
yourself to a subscription to world beyond.
The English Home.
8 THE ENGLISH HOME

36
95
36
58
64
124 116
62
52
48
Quintessentially 46 24
109 FOREVER FLOWERS Pressing seasonal
blooms to make lasting decorations.
110 SET THE SCENE FOR: A FORMAL PARTY
Ideas for hosting a sophisticated
gathering, from invitations to lighting.
116 REGAL RETREATS Explore four of the
Royal Family’s cherished rural escapes.
124 EAT, SLEEP & BE MERRY Our edit of
desirable country pubs with delicious
food and well-appointed bedrooms.
130 MY ENGLISH HOME & GARDEN
Horticulturalist and television presenter
Poppy Okotcha.
38
THE ENGLISH HOME 9
An indulgent, canopied bed, like
this one by Guy Goodfellow is
one of the luxuries of the country
house, with roots in practicality.
Discover more on page 86.
A letter from home

T
here is something irresistible
about the classic English
country house aesthetic.
Relaxed, comfortable and
evolved over time, English country
interiors are admired the world over for
their laid-back flair, individuality and
charm. The best examples also satisfy
that very English desire for characterful
imperfection and any glamour to be faded – something that the
renowned decorator John Fowler called “humble elegance”.
Fowler said of his own country house, The Hunting Lodge in
Odiham (which he bought in the 1940s), “What I wanted was
something utterly unpretentious, very comfortable, with a veneer
of elegance and informality.” Perhaps it is this – along with the
fact that country interiors transport us closer to nature and
seemingly out of time to a slower pace of life – that makes them
so appealing right now, wherever we live.
In this special country edition, we look at the latest ways to
decorate in classic country style (page 78), the design secrets of
creating the ultimate bathroom (page 95), and how to tackle
common issues associated with renovating rural homes of all
shapes and sizes (page 86). We are also hugely grateful to the
homeowners who generously share the unique journey of
creating their beautiful country homes with us. We hope they’ll
inspire you along with the many features this issue designed to
provide an escape and ideas, wherever you call home.
Beautiful flooring, designed to last Samantha Scott-Jeffries, Editor
Follow us on Twitter @englishhometeam

Over 100 designs | Expert advice | 20,000m 2 of stock | Express delivery
Pinterest at pinterest.com/theenglishhome
SHOWROOM
Facebook at facebook.com@theenglishhome
20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG Instagram at instagram.com@englishhomemag
020 8871 9771 The AND
ENGLISH Discover a new way to enjoy The English Home
HOME
w w w.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk PODCAST with our podcast. To listen, simply download at
podcast.theenglishhome.co.uk
ASK US
ABOUT OUR
AFFORDABLE
FINANCE
OPTION!
HANDCRAFTED BESPOKE SECONDARY GL AZING

FOR HISTORIC, PERIOD AND LISTED PROPERTIES
Our skilled craftsmen are trusted by conservationists, architects

and homeowners across the UK to design and install custom-made
secondary glazing for historic, period and listed properties.
BENEFITS OF OUR GLAZING INCLUDE:
Acoustic protection Elimination of draughts and Preserves the character Virtually

from outside noise improved thermal efficiency of your home invisible
T - 01384 636365 STORMWINDOWS.CO.UK

The
ENGLISH Co
untr
y Speci
a
l
HOME Celebrating the essence of English style
August 2022 | Issue 210 | £4.99 | UK Edition
A COUNTRY ESCAPE
Timeless inspiration for living the dream
Royal Decorative
residences
Cherished rural
solutions
for country
retreats of the interiors of
CONTACT US Royal Family all sizes
Editorial 020 7349 3700

AN ALBION BATH The English Home, Jubilee House,
2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ
EXPERT GUIDES
Email [email protected] • Ultimate bathrooms
• Smart summer gatherings
• Fine gastropubs & inns
Website theenglishhome.co.uk
Advertising/Publishing 020 7349 3700 RESTORED & REFRESHED
TAKES A LITTLE
Inside four idyllic homes from Georgian cottage to Elizabethan manor
The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd

Email [email protected] COVER PHOTOGRAPH
© ASTRID TEMPLIER
LONGER EDITORIAL
Editor Samantha Scott-Jeffries
COVER ILLUSTRATION
© ANASTASIA LEMBRIK / SHUTTERSTOCK
Managing Editor Sarah Feeley

Art Editors Claire Hicks, Rebecca Stead
Contributing Designer Mark Bradley
Sub Editor Lea Tacey
Decorating Editor Katy Mclean
Features Editor Suzanna Le Grove
Homes & Lifestyle Editor Clair Wayman
Editor-at-Large Kate Freud
ADVERTISING
Group Sales Director Catherine Chapman
020 7349 3709; [email protected]
Head of Sales Operations Jodie Green
Advertisement Manager William Bernard
Senior Sales Executive Laurna Barry
Advertising Production 01202 472781; allpointsmedia.co.uk
PUBLISHING
Chairman Paul Dobson
Managing Director James Dobson
Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin
Publisher Caroline Scott
Circulation Manager Daniel Webb
Business Operations Manager Sarah Porter
EA to Chairman Sophie Easton
ONLINE
Group Digital Manager Ben Iskander
Email & Digital Creative Manager Jenny Choo
PRODUCTION
Reprographics Manager Neil Puttnam
Printing William Gibbons Ltd
NEXT ISSUE ON SALE 3 AUGUST 2022
THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 1468-0238 (PRINT)

THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 2397-7086 (ONLINE)
Stay warmer in an Albion bath as our Iso-Enamel material will keep your Did you know you can manage your subscription online? Oversee your print and
digital subscriptions online today simply by signing up at www.subscription.co.uk/
water hotter for longer - and at less than half the weight of cast iron, an chelsea/Solo/. Stay up to date with the latest issues, update your personal details,
Albion bath is easier to locate and install. and even renew your subscription with just a click of a button.
With a range of free standing baths from 1200mm - 2000mm long,

we’ve got all sizes of bathroom covered.
Made by hand in our Essex factory, all Albion baths are manufactured to
SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES
order - so in both ways, an Albion bath takes a little longer. 01858 438 854
SUBSCRIPTION OFFICE SUBSCRIPTION RATES (12 issues)
Request your brochure of our range of over 50 free standing bath
The English Home UK £70
tubs, taps and sanitaryware items. Tower House, Lathkill Street Europe £90; €110
Market Harborough ROW £110; USD $150; AUD $215
Leicestershire LE16 9EF
NEWS DISTRIBUTION
ALBION Tel 01858 438 854
Email theenglishhome@
Seymour Distribution Ltd
2 East Poultry Avenue
01255 831605 BATH C OMPANY subscription.co.uk London EC1A 9PT
albionbathco.com HAND MADE IN ENGLAND (UK and Rest of World) Tel 020 7429 3667
The greatest love begins with a little spark.
Ignite the fire within.
ELECTRIC GAS WOOD BURNING M U LT I - F U E L
01952 200 444 | [email protected] | www.charltonandjenrick.co.uk

For further inspiration
on creating a quintessentially
English home, visit our website,
listen to our NEW podcast
or catch up on our socials
Visit us online for...

Room-by-room decorating advice
Interviews with top interior designers
Invaluable buyers’ guides
NEW
PODCAST All episodes available now
Download The English
Home podcast for
insider know-how,
seasonal inspiration
and dos and don’ts.
Leading industry
names such as Nina
Campbell, Kit Kemp
and Farrow & Ball’s
colour curator Joa
Studholme share
their expert advice
and top tips for
PHOTOGRAPH © JAKE EASTHAM
achieving the best
results. New episodes
coming soon!
podcast.theenglishhome.co.uk
theenglishhome.co.uk
FOLLOW US ON... Twitter @englishhometeam
Pinterest at pinterest.com/theenglishhome
Instagram at instagram.com@englishhomemag
F E AT U R E D R O S E : R O A L D D A H L (Ausowlish)
C R E AT E A N I N S TA N T G A R D E N SCAN FOR
Roald Dahl
WITH ENGLISH ROSES English Shrub Rose
COLOUR, FRAGRANCE & BLOOMS ALL SUMMER LONG
davidaustinroses.co.uk
NOTEBOOK
Our monthly edit of news, shopping inspiration and inside information
SPOTLIGHT ON… share an ethos and a long-standing I’ve always loved doing. So it has been such
friendship. Adorned with botanical a wonderful opportunity to work alongside
Daylesford x Colefax and Fowler illustrations inspired by a Colefax archive Colefax and Fowler, a brand I’ve admired
The Quince Garden Collection is the fruit fabric, the collection includes tablecloths, and brought into my own home for so
of a new collaboration between Daylesford napkins, plates and serving dishes. many years. These pieces are a beautiful
Organic and Colefax and Fowler. Carole says: “Planning a table, using rendering of our vision, the craftsmanship,
Daylesford founder Carole Bamford and colour, texture and shapes to create an skills, intricate design reflecting the values
Colefax and Fowler chairman David Green engaging and inviting setting, is something that permeate our brands.” daylesford.com 
THE ENGLISH HOME 17

NEWS
Sketches Brought To Life

Fabric designer’s first woven collection
Kate Medlicott’s sketches of intertwining patterns in
the background of frescoes in Assisi by 14th-century
Italian artist Giotto are brought to life in her first
woven fabric collection, Basilica.
Woven by a historic family-owned mill dating back
to 1720 in Suffolk, the reversible fabrics – suitable
for upholstery, cushions and curtains – are initially
available in five colourways with yarn colour options.
The natural characteristics of flax and the design’s
hand-drawn origins, plus a subtle sheen, create
a striking yet understated, rustic yet luxurious fabric.
Having grown up on a farm, Kate studied fine art
and history of rt and worked in the Far East for
many years. She returned to England and her first
love – fine art – launching her first fabric collection
in 2017, and is based in Somerset. katemedlicott.com
Painterly Serenity
Artorial pays homage to Laura Stephens
Passementerie, vintage florals and hand-painted
stripes are key to interior designer Laura Stephens’
(left) aesthetic and have inspired a collection of
original artworks by new print studio Artorial.
After struggling to find art to suit their individual
tastes, despite the overwhelming abundance on
offer, interior designer Jo Sampson and fashion
designer Jenny Crosbie founded Artorial as an
online resource of curated contemporary artworks.
They have designed 22 individual prints as a
creative response to Laura’s interior design aesthetic,
which is elegant, playful and detailed, featuring
layers of pattern, texture and light, all drawn
together in a palette of serene and feminine
colours. artorial.art
Next Generation Rugs

Peter Page’s new range with Turner Pocock
For almost two decades since his father established
Tim Page Carpets in 2003, Peter Page has been
nurturing a passion for the intricate craft of weaving,
learning all aspects and deepening his understanding
– and now he has stepped out on his own.
Peter recently opened his own showroom in
London’s Chelsea Wharf showcasing his handmade,
hand-woven and machine-made rugs, runners and
carpets, working closely with some of the best
artisans and weavers around the world.
Bunny Turner and Emma Pocock of London
interior design agency Turner Pocock chose to
collaborate with Peter on a new collection of
bespoke flatware jute rugs, each made to order,
enabling the client to choose their colourway and
refine the finishing. peterpage.com
18 THE ENGLISH HOME

NEWS
Stately Sleep: Chatsworth & Woolroom

Luxury bedding made of wool sourced from the Chatsworth estate
Sweeping down the long drive towards pleased to be working with Chris and
Derbyshire’s majestic Chatsworth House the team at Woolroom on this new
– one of 10 Treasure Houses of England Chatsworth collection wool bedding.”
– visitors are surprised and delighted to Woolroom managing director Chris
see free-roaming sheep up close. Dotted Tattersall says: “We are delighted to be
all over the grounds, highlighted against partnering with Chatsworth. I am a great
the lush green grass on which they graze, admirer of this beautiful location in
they are utterly unfazed by the crowds Derbyshire and incredibly proud to be
clamouring to take their photograph. using their high-quality wool as part of
These charming characters are the this new collection.”
stars of a new exclusive partnership Naturally hypoallergenic (approved by
between Chatsworth and leading Allergy UK), temperature regulating,
wool-bedding retailer Woolroom. The sustainable, chemical-free and machine
Chatsworth Collection by Woolroom washable, Woolroom’s wool bedding
features luxury wool duvets, pillows, claims 25 per cent deeper and more
mattress protectors and toppers made regenerative sleep than any other fibre
using wool exclusively sourced from the type, offering a sleep trial of 60 nights for
Chatsworth Estate. sets and 30 nights for individual items.
In a first for the bedding industry, Its luxuriously fleeced sheep are just
customers can even scan a QR code one of many reasons to visit Chatsworth
to trace the wool used in their bedding House, which has breathtaking historic
back to the exact flock it came from interiors and has been home to 16
on the Chatsworth Estate as part of generations of the Cavendish family.
Woolroom’s Wool ID programme. The 12th Duke and Duchess of
“As farm manager on the Chatsworth Devonshire, their son William, Earl of
Estate for over eight years,” says David Burlington and his wife Laura, Countess
Howlett, “I know just how incredible the of Burlington, share a passion for
wool from our 2,500-strong flock of collecting contemporary art and
beautiful sheep, who graze openly in sculpture, with many works of art
parkland across the estate, is. The displayed around the house and gardens.
downs-type fleece is perfect to use in The estate’s grounds host events and chic
bedding due to the length and thickness on-site shops proudly sell fine local
of the wool fibres, and we’re really produce. thewoolroom.com; chatsworth.org
20 THE ENGLISH HOME

Perfecting the balance of beauty and utility with
a timeless collection of bespoke, British furniture.
Home is a feeling; make a lasting impression.
Scan to
discover
thedormyhouse.com | 01264 365808 more
NEWS
Diary
FEATURE SARAH FEELEY PHOTOGRAPHS P17 © MARTIN MORRELL. P18 (TOP) © MEG LOVELL PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILM; (MIDDLE LEFT) © TAMSIN COX, (MIDDLE RIGHT) © ARTORIAL.
BY JANINE BURROWS. PHOTO © RED PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY YORKSHIRE SCULPTURE PARK; (DIARY BOTTOM) PHOTO © MATTHEW OTTEN, COURTESY OF ANGELA MADDOCK
ART; (BOTTOM) © SEAN MYERS. P20 © THEWOOLROOM.COM. P22 (TOP LEFT) © ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL; (BOTTOM LEFT) © MARIELL LIND HANSEN; (DIARY TOP) MOORE AT YSP
Artist Janine
Burrows celebrates
the landscape of
Yorkshire in Table
To Tide: A Yorkshire
Conversation at
Yorkshire Sculpture
Park until 23
October. ysp.org.uk
in by King Louis XVIII and his Queen, Marie

A Taste Of Royal Splendour Joséphine of Savoy. Fittingly, each has a king-size
Hartwell House: luxury countryside stays four-poster bed and is decorated with antiques,
fine paintings and awe-inspiring views of the
Lovingly restored Hartwell House in the Vale of landscaped gardens, parkland and lake. There are
Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire is the perfect place also two lavish Royal Suites at Hartwell House for
to experience country living fit for a king. optimum opulence. Watch as makers
King of France Louis XVIII is its most famous Nestled on the edge of the Chilterns in an Area transform discarded
former resident. He lived at Hartwell House from of Outstanding Natural Beauty, amid over 90 acres objects at London’s
1809 to 1814 with his family while exiled, and when of gardens and parkland, the main house has Somerset House for
the French Senate invited him to resume the Jacobean and Georgian features, with decorative exhibition Eternally
throne, it is where he signed the accession papers. ceilings and panelling, art and antique furniture. Yours, exploring
Now owned by the National Trust and run Hartwell House’s remarkable history stretches repair, care and
as a luxurious country hotel, the accommodation back almost 1,000 years to the reign of Edward healing. Until
includes four Royal Four-Poster Rooms once resided The Confessor. hartwell-house.com 25 September.
somersethouse.org.uk
Exclusive Seaside Escape

Soho House’s first UK venue by the sea
Newly opened by Soho House overlooking the
historic Palace Pier with wonderful sea views,
Brighton Beach House is as characterful and
quirky as the famous seaside resort itself.
Located in a Grade II listed seafront terrace, the
interior of this glass-fronted private members’ club
takes inspiration from the surrounding seaside
location and art deco architecture, juxtaposing
vintage furniture with specially designed pieces, with
local craftsmen and artists contributing.
A banana-shaped pool, esoteric art by artists born,
based or trained in Brighton, and sunbed and parasol
fabric designed by recent University of Brighton
graduate Miranda Forrester featuring abstract figures
and foliage combine to set a playfully refined and
relaxed mood to suit its creative clientele and
idiosyncratic location.
Founded in 1995 by Nick Jones, Soho House now
has Houses around the world, as well as restaurants,
spas, workspaces and cinemas. sohohouse.com ■
22 THE ENGLISH HOME

ENHANC E T HE VALU E
and beauty of your home with real timber windows & doors
Whether your home is a country cottage, a Victorian semi, a modern With 45 local showrooms nationwide we can provide the perfect environment
townhouse or a converted barn, we have a range of traditional and to browse the many options available.
contemporary timber windows and doors that will complement it perfectly.
The Timber Windows service is delivered with care by knowledgeable local
Our collection has been carefully and sensitively tailored to complement the specialists whose reputation is built on providing an attentive service from initial
English home. Unlike timber windows of old, our products will not twist, enquiry to the completion of your project.
will not rot and require very little maintenance. High levels of insulation and
security ensure there is no need to sacrifice beauty for comfort. Please do get in touch to receive expert advice and to see how beautiful timber
windows and doors really can enhance the value & beauty of your home.
AMERSHAM CATERHAM GUILDFORD HORNDEAN MORETON-IN-MARSH SUNNINGDALE (COMING SOON)
BIRMINGHAM (HARBORNE) CHANNEL ISLANDS HARROGATE HORSHAM NOTTINGHAM ST ALBANS

BLANDFORD CHELTENHAM HARTLEY WINTNEY INGATESTONE OLNEY TAVISTOCK
BOURNEMOUTH CIRENCESTER HEATHFIELD KNUTSFORD OXFORD TUNBRIDGE WELLS
BRISTOL (CLIFTON) COLCHESTER HENLEY-ON-THAMES LEAMINGTON SPA RIPLEY WIMBLEDON
BURY ST EDMUNDS DENBIGH HEREFORD LINCOLN SALISBURY WINCHESTER
CARDIFF DULWICH HIGHGATE MAIDSTONE SHEFFIELD WOODBRIDGE
CARMARTHEN ESHER HONITON
T: 0800 030 2000 ndows.com/eh

DESIGN DISCOVERIES
Distinctive craftmanship and decorative details to instill
homes and gardens with an engaging individuality
STYLISH STONEWARE
Whether enjoying an impromptu lunch in the garden
or a simple supper in the kitchen, Sophie Conran’s
fine stoneware collection (right) has an elegant fluted
shape to effortlessly elevate the mood of everyday
dining. Traditionally crafted, it features a dappled
glaze that adds a relaxed finish to each piece.
Dappled White Fluted tableware, from £33; Cornflower
Tree of Life duvet cover, from £125, all Sophie Conran
WOVEN WITH FLAIR

These tactile baskets are handmade by women in
a small Kenyan craft collective. Perfect for housing
potted plants, the sturdy designs are also ideal for
kitchen storage. Group several baskets together to
maximise the colourful and textural impact.
Kuzuia fluoro pink and natural woven storage baskets,
available in three sizes, from £16, Ibbi
ARTFUL EMBROIDERY
Classically viewed as a piece of textile artwork, a suzani
is traditionally a hand-embroidered panel made in
Central Asia. Seen here used as a tablecloth that pairs
beautifully with silk ikat cushions, a suzani can be
displayed as a wall hanging or used as a luxurious
throw in a bedroom or sitting room.
Suzani, from £195; silk ikat cushions, from £95,
all Anor Living
24 THE ENGLISH HOME

SHOPPING
RUSTIC FURNISHINGS
For a modern take on bringing natural textures
together, look to accessories and furniture with
eye-catching silhouettes. Seek out contemporary
pendant lights, stools and occasional chairs that
will carry impact yet, as in this sitting room, also
infuse schemes with a calm quality.
Battersea easy fit pendant shades, from £100; Farrah woven

chair, £270; Mayfield stool, £180, all Garden Trading
THE ENGLISH HOME 25

SHOPPING
A LIGHT TOUCH
Hadeland Glassverk is a Norwegian lighting
specialist that recently opened its first UK
showroom in the Design Centre at Chelsea
Harbour. Established in 1762, the brand offers
hand-blown lights, art glass and stemware.
Combining contemporary ideas with artisan
skills, these crystal spheres come in seven
designs, in three sizes and nine colours, allowing
the light to be tailored to any style of scheme.
Twelve crystal spheres and canopy £3,608,
Hadeland Glassverk
VIBRANT LINENS
London print designer Nichola Taylorson delights
in producing small batches of authentically crafted,
luxurious linen textiles. Hand-blocked and
hand-embroidered in Jaipur, the dotted pattern
of her Anushka design delivers a flavour of
traditional Indian prints. The pattern is available
in a wide range of 12 shades.
Anushka fabrics, £165 a metre, Nichola Taylorson
GOLDEN CUTLERY
The soft gold finish of this stainless-steel cutlery
creates a subtle-yet-notable point of difference.
Exuding a modern sense of glamour, the style
is classic enough to be fitting for daily dining and
will make guests feel an extra effort has been made
for special occasions.
Sintra Matt Champagne 16-piece cutlery set, £160;
Modern Base wine glasses, £72 for a set ofsix; Friso
tableware, from £14, all Layered Lounge
26 THE ENGLISH HOME

H AW K S F I E L D AT L A N T I C H I G H WA Y WA D E B R I D G E C O R N WA L L PL27 7LR
01208 895058 w w w. j o a n d c o h o m e . c o m
SHOPPING
RADIATING COLOUR
A bold paint choice skilfully turns this radiator into a
decorative feature that picks up on the turquoise shade
within the wallpaper above. Stylised details – such as
a scalloped topline, soft contours and refined feet
– keep the old school radiator from seeming dated.
The model comes in an array of polished or antique
finishes, or it can be coated in primer ready for a
unique colourway.
Emmeline radiator, from £294, The Radiator Centre
SHELF SHOWCASE
From a neat bookshelf to a display shelf for collections
FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVE PHOTOGRAPH P26 (JULIAN CHICHESTER) © ANDERS GRAMER

to a decorative spice rack, this wall-mounted shelf
offers a multitude of possibilities. Influenced by
Regency designs, it has a bleached oak surface that
ensures each piece has a distinctive character.
Bobbin wall-mounted bookshelf, £1,560, Julian Chichester
VERSATILE PRINTS
Inspired by iconic toile and block-print patterns,
interior designer Sarah Vanrenen’s fabric and
wallpaper collections have evolved to include vibrant
modern prints. Originally created for Vanrenen GW
Designs’ interior design projects, the mix of patterns
and vibrant hues work beautifully in both country and
smart townhouse settings.
Headboard, Lilac, £215.60 a metre; wallpaper, Violet,
Green, £190 a roll, both Sarah Vanrenen Collection at
The Fabric Collective ■
28 THE ENGLISH HOME

Superb Statue of Flora
by Pulham Pottery
circa 1870
Height: 2.55m
including base
POA
Statue of Diana de
Gabies by J.M
Blashfield, 1870
Height: 2.52m
including base
POA
A Rare Terracotta
Statue of Ceres by
J.M. Blashfield signed
and dated 1871
Height: 2.5m
including base
POA
View By Appointment, Contact:

07802670442
[email protected]
SHOPPING Curtain Fuchsia, Silver/
Leaf, £95; Chair Minack
Check, Green, £78;
Cushion, Jay Check,
Green, £83 a metre, all
Josie’s Blush
Colefax and Fowler
Gingham side
plate, £8.99,
Katie Alice
Woodhouse
Check bow,
Navy, £48,
Tori Murphy
Cottage Garden quilt,

Diamond Velvet,
£660, Velvet
Linen
Society of Wanderers CHINTZ & CHECK Small Dash

Dot Blue Pink
Lavender Fizz Full Ruffle Two stalwarts of the English country house, chintzes and checks, are
cushion cover, £49, flower pot, £54,
Antipodream also perfect partners. The rhythmic structure of a pretty gingham The Mews
harmonises with the loose freedom of florals. Both offer a romantic,
feminine feel that can be fully embraced in a palette of pastels and
fresh whites and are so classic that the look is not overly dainty; it is Sibyl Chintz tablecloth, from £104;
Set of four Pistachio Gingham Ruffle
soft, pleasing and has come to be expected in a country home. While linen placemats and napkins, £208,
ruffles, bows and flounces heighten the romance, modernity can be and all tableware, Mrs Alice
infused by playing with scale - a large check looks rather striking and
contemporary, and a ditsy print quite chic.
Abby Rose 4
collection wallpapers,
£38.95 a roll,
Galerie Home
Great Check window seat,

from £2,560, Salvesen Graham
The Avery armchair,
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN
£6,180 plus fabric, Sibyl

Colefax & John Fowler
Pleated Check
lampshade, Green,
from £67; Lattice
Rattan lamp, £175,
both Birdie Fortescue
30 THE ENGLISH HOME

SHOPPING Slate grey roll-up
dog mat, £89, The
Red Dog Company
Rayon de
Miel lamp
base, £139,
India Jane
Gable wallpaper, £114 a roll,

Farrow & Ball
The Potters Collection Vessels,

from £149, Collection Noir
RURAL COMPANIONS
Wire kitchen storage baskets, Inspired by animals that are at home in the countryside, these designs
set of three, £24.95, Dibor
create a charming connection to rural life. Whether living in pastoral
parts or simply drawn to this decorative theme, a subtle approach to
animal prints keeps a stylish mood. Look to elegant bird and bucolic Dog collars, £29.99,
patterns, alongside timeless natural motifs – such as hexagon beehive George Barclay
shapes. For practical and decorative buys, simple silhouettes capture a
contemporary elegance. Not to forget our beloved pets themselves –
with tactile and smart creature comforts to delight.
PHOTOGRAPH (HIGHGROVE SHOP) © JAKE EASTHAM;

FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVE
Dressed To Impress cushion,
Rousseau Langley £154, Chelsea Textiles Bouquet of two pheasant willow
cocktail chair by
scupltures, £764.50, Emma
Emma J Shipley, £499,
Stothard at Highgrove Shop
Rockett St George
Round rattan
pet hide, £195, Best In Show
Cox & Cox porcelain pen pot,
£27.99, Liberty
Personalised ceramic dog
bowl, from £23.50, The
Stylish Dog Company
Bird plates,
from £30,
Dog & Dome
Dakota sculpture,
£105, Sweetpea
& Willow
32 THE ENGLISH HOME

15% off any purchase over £30* when
you enter ’EH30’ at checkout or present
this advert in galleries
*Excludes commissions. Not available in
conjunction with any other offers.
beaut if ul f used gl ass int er ior pieces and bespoke ar chit ect ur al inst al l at ions, handmade at our cor nwal l st udio.
ST IVES | PADSTOW | FOW EY | TINTAGEL | LAUNCESTON | SUNNINGDALE
www.jodowns.com
THE ENGLISH HOME 33

NEWS
THE EDIT
Editor-at-Large Kate Freud shares the new products and
brand discoveries that have caught her eye this month
WISH LIST
Ever since Emily Stewart and Sarah Serocold
joined forces in 2017 to create Hill & May, the
company has gone from strength to strength with
their eclectic range of lamp bases and shades. The
pair choose their own fabrics, colours, trims and
materials to make something beautiful and unique
which works brilliantly mixed and matched with
the company’s ceramic and hand-turned wooden
lamp bases. New this season is the mustard Panteo
lamp, teamed with the mustard Splash shade or
alternatively the Ridge lamp in Oxblood paired
with the Red Vine shade is equally striking.
hillandmay.com
TIMELESS STYLE
From its Devon workshop, Barnes of
Ashburton tirelessly makes beautiful
bespoke handmade kitchens, bedrooms,
bathrooms and freestanding furniture,
establishing itself a reputation over the
past 40 years for its attention to detail.
Add to this, the huge demand the
company has seen in the last couple
of years for boot rooms, and it has
the whole house covered.
Using traditional methods of
cabinetmaking blended with a modern
approach to design, the company’s
LET’S GO TO... team of designers and craftsmen work
to get a clear grasp of exactly what
Step inside the beautifully curated interiors store clients want – from storage to seating
ND on the Green, on London’s King’s Road, and and ironmongery and paint finishes
it will come as no surprise that it is the brainchild – before creating a bespoke design to
of interior designer Natascha Dartnall, hence the suit those needs. This is particularly
name. Offering antiques, paintings, soft beneficial when dealing with period
furnishings and more from small independent properties, as homeowners need not
makers and experts, ND On The Green is an worry about awkward corners, wonky
Aladdin’s cave of beautiful, rare things. So, if walls and sloping ceilings which are
seeking a refreshing antidote to the high street, all incorporated into the design for
visit this artisan-lover’s dream shop to find some added character. 
characterful pieces to update interiors. barnesofashburton.com
nd-studios.co.uk
34 THE ENGLISH HOME

www.theheadboardworkshop.co.uk
or call us on 01291 628216
Headboards & Beds | Ottomans | Stools & Chairs
Extraordinary kitchen projects
Fitted & freestanding furniture that’s Order a copy of our new 316 page Hope House, High Street
refreshingly different. Commissions brochure online. You’re going to be Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 0LH
fulfilled throughout the United Kingdom, impressed - it’s the most comprehensive
and proud of it
www.unfitted.co.uk
Europe and worldwide. guide to classic kitchens in the UK.
01608 650065
THE ENGLISH HOME 35

NEWS
6
OF THE
BEST
CONSOLE
TABLES
NEW COLLECTION
4
In amongst the range of lighting, lounging chairs, both upholstered and

chimneypieces and antiques to be wooden, lovingly designed to capture the
found in Pimlico Road interiors store English country house aesthetic by the
5
Jamb, is the Crawford sofa – which has pair behind the brand, husband-and-wife
just been added to Jamb’s furniture team Will and Charlotte Fisher, whose
collection. It is in good company, sitting impeccable taste never disappoints.
alongside a range of dining and jamb.co.uk
6
LOOK OUT FOR...
While Chesneys is probably best
known for its beautiful fireplaces –
antique, contemporary and bespoke –
its collection of barbeques and outdoor
1. Ada Black console table, £485,
woodburners is equally impressive.
grahamandgreen.co.uk
There is no need to let a chilly evening
curb garden dinner parties with the 2. Kaishu console table, £1,795,
Heat & Grill, Chesneys award-winning oka.com
barbeque which acts as an outdoor fire
3. Cortez console, £5,760,
and heater, too. It uses the same
sweetpeaandwillow.com
technology as the company’s indoor
stoves, whether burning wood or 4. Cubist console table, £595,
charcoal, producing little smoke while coxandcox.co.uk
emitting substantial glowing heat,
5. Bobbin console, £1,978,
allowing everyone to stay outside
julianchichester.com
just that little bit longer.
chesneys.co.uk ■ 6. Architect table, £495,
andrewmartin.co.uk
36 THE ENGLISH HOME

GREAT SAVINGS
WHEN YOU SUBSCRIBE
SAVE OVER
£25
OFF THE
FULL
PRICE
“I love The English Home – it’s a

must-read for myself and our team”
NINA CAMPBELL, LEADING INTERIOR & LUXURY HOMEWARE DESIGNER
AMAZING SAVINGS WHEN Plus a

YOU SUBSCRIBE
UK £44.95 FREE
Europe €79.95 Stoneglow
Australia $149.95 candle
Rest of world £74.95 worth £20*
SUBSCRIBE NOW
Go to www.chelseamagazines.com/CENH0822
Or phone +44 (0)1858 438 889 (quoting code CENH0822)
NB: Prices and discounts based on the UK BAR rate of £70. If for any reason you’re not happy with your subscription, you may cancel within 14 days of placing your
order.
*Free gift is for Direct Debit and Continuous Credit Card subscriptions delivered to UK mainland addresses only and will be delivered to the billpayer’s address.
38 THE ENGLISH HOME
Pleasing
SYMMETRY
YMMETRY
Artist Anna Dixon-Smith has
slowly transformed her Elizabethan
manor house into a vibrant family home,
while sensitively appreciating its history
FEATURE HUGH ST CLAIR & CLAIR WAYMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL
B
ack in 1992, it was with some trepidation
that newlyweds Anna and Adam Dixon-
Smith left their flat in Notting Hill for life
in the Suffolk countryside. Setting up home
in a chilly, 16th-century, timber-framed manor house
was quite daunting at first, but the couple set to work
breathing new life into the historic building, and as
their family grew – they have four sons, now all adult
– the house evolved.
“It felt quite bleak when we first arrived – we were
rattling around in it but also excited by such an
irresistible challenge,” explains Anna. “Coming from
a flat, we had very little furniture, so we collected
antiques from auction houses and sourced fabric on
a budget, and slowly, slowly it came together. It’s
been a very long project.”
The couple love pattern and colour and over the
years have amassed textiles, rugs, cushions and
ornaments from travels to the Far East and South
America, and the house is the perfect backdrop for
these treasures. “Every time I go away, I like to pick up
pieces that will remind me of countries I’ve been to,”
Anna explains. “I didn’t want the interiors to be
designed in one hit or have a hotel-like feel – I love
rooms that are slowly built up over time to create a
layered look and show the different phases of life.”
LEFT The newly created gabled left wing of the house is

a sympathetic addition which houses the open-plan kitchen
and dining room as well as the principal bedroom above.
THE ENGLISH HOME 39

The characterful back
hall, just off the drawing
room, was widened
when the couple did
some building work in
2017 and a limestone
tiled floor replaced red
pamment tiles for a
lighter feel.
40 THE ENGLISH HOME

‘We respect the history of the house, ensuring what we do is sympathetically
in keeping, without feeling like we’re living in an ancient museum’
Originally built in the 1560s, the house has a ABOVE The drawing
fascinating history, including links to the Puritan room at the front of
the house leads into
lawyer John Winthrop, who emigrated to America and the dining room. The
founded the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 1620s. wall is painted India
During Georgian times, when a more pared-back Yellow by Farrow &
aesthetic became popular, many of the original Ball while the pair
features were disguised or replaced altogether. of raffia scallop
lampshades are
Thankfully, in the 1930s, local architect Basil Oliver, from Matilda Goad.
who espoused the ideals of the Arts and Crafts LEFT Anna
movement, restored the house to its original surrounded by her
splendour. “He removed the Georgian sash windows vibrant paintings
and reinstated leaded windows and removed plaster in her studio. Visit
from the front of the building to uncover original annadixon-smithart.
com to see more
beams and intricate carvings,” explains Anna. of her art.
Anna and Adam have been careful to make sensitive
modifications to the Grade II listed property. A
priority was to add extra bedrooms for family and
friends in the attic, which had no natural light until an
architectural historian discovered there had originally
THE ENGLISH HOME 41

ABOVE The light
and airy kitchen was
designed by Anna
and made by local
cabinetmaker
Christian Ward
Thomas and is
painted in Green
Smoke and Rangwali
by Farrow & Ball,
and Stone V by
Paint Library.
RIGHT The snug
off the kitchen was
a chilly study, then
a playroom, but is
now fully insulated
and has underfloor
heating – the perfect
spot for Lola, a
lurcher, to curl up.
The painting of
feathers is by Anna.
‘This new addition has really made the house work as a whole and created
a lovely flow. It’s wonderful having a space where we can all congregate’
been dormer windows in the roof, so the couple U-shaped house with gables at both ends. So, together ABOVE The dining
reinstated them and they now look as though they with architect Neil Jennings, they recreated the missing room is in the new
gabled addition and
have always been there. “We respect and honour the gabled left end of the house, which now houses their
part of the open-plan
history of the house, making sure that whatever longed-for kitchen and dining area, and a spacious new kitchen. The vintage
we do is sympathetically in keeping, without having to bedroom for them above. cocktail trolley is
feel like we’re living in an ancient museum,” explains “This new addition has made the house symmetrical from local French
Anna. “It’s such an old house, and it seems a bit of from the front, made it work as a whole and created a brocante, The
Boule-In and the
a cliché, but we feel like we’re caretakers for this lovely flow,” says Anna. “It’s wonderful having a space
Luxor lantern is
glorious building.” where we can all congregate without feeling cramped. from Pooky.
In 2017, after seven years of planning toing and The previous kitchen was east-facing and by 11am the
froing, the couple decided the time had come to create light had gone. In the new kitchen, there’s light
an open-plan kitchen and dining room to replace their coming in from the south and west all the time, with
existing small, dark kitchen at the opposite end of the a skylight above the island, too.”
house. Their planning consultant found an old map Double-glazed leaded windows echo the size and
which showed the property as a traditional Elizabethan shape of the original leaded windows in the opposite
THE ENGLISH HOME 43

The principal
bedroom is in the
new left gable.
Curtains and a
matching bed
valance are in Hodsoll
McKenzie’s Indian
Iris fabric. The new
windows, echoing the
original ones, are by
Bronze Casements
and the walls are in
Dove by Edward
Bulmer Natural Paint.
‘I didn’t want the interiors to be designed in one hit. I love rooms that
are slowly built up over time and show the different phases of life’
gable but are subtly different. “These new windows are ABOVE The valance
a nod to the old style without being an absolute replica and curtains in this
of the original windows, which I think works really inviting attic
bedroom are in a
well,” Anna adds. Bifold doors open out onto a sunny Hodsoll McKenzie
courtyard and the rambling garden, which is Anna’s fabric and have been
pride and joy. “The garden has also been a very gradual teamed with a quilted
development over the years,” she says. “I just love it. kantha throw from
We have a vegetable garden, big herbaceous beds and Ibbi Direct.
LEFT The Versailles
wild areas.”
dressing table from
An artist, Anna is constantly inspired by the garden, Oka in the principal
painting plants and flowers she has grown herself and bedroom is
creating still-life compositions incorporating favourite surrounded by
jugs and vases. “Having recently spent a lot of time some of the couple’s
favourite paintings.
at home recovering from Covid, I started drawing
views through the house looking into the garden,”
she says, “which was a new departure for me, and
became a narrative reminiscent of Virginia Woolf’s
book A Room of One’s Own. Looking out at the bright
green lawn with the slightly darker interiors has
definitely been an inspiration for my art.”
Anna studied sculpture at Central Saint Martins
before forging a career in events, and went back to art
school when youngest son, Archie, was one. Nowadays
she is often found painting in her studio, a converted
THE ENGLISH HOME 45

Order your free fabric samples at Beautiful.
thefootstoolworkshop.co.uk Practical.
01443 831 981 Customisable.
We Make The Seats, You Make The Memories

The
Theonly
onlybespoke
bespokeswing
swingand
andbench
benchmaker
makerendorsed
endorsed by
by the
the RHS
RHS
sittingspiritually.co.uk
sittingspiritually.co.uk 01297
01297443084
443084
® The Royal Horticultural Society. The Royal Horticultural Society, and its logo, are trade marks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) and used under licence from RHS Enterprises Limited.
THE ENGLISH HOME 47

Order your free fabric samples at Beautiful.
thefootstoolworkshop.co.uk Practical.
01443 831 981 Customisable.
We Make The Seats, You Make The Memories

The
Theonly
onlybespoke
bespokeswing
swingand
andbench
benchmaker
makerendorsed
endorsed by
by the
the RHS
RHS
sittingspiritually.co.uk
sittingspiritually.co.uk 01297
01297443084
443084
® The Royal Horticultural Society. The Royal Horticultural Society, and its logo, are trade marks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) and used under licence from RHS Enterprises Limited.
THE ENGLISH HOME 47

The starting point for the drawing room was
Lewis & Wood’s Benaki print, used for the
curtains. The bespoke ottoman by Balmain &
Balmain is covered in Guy Goodfellow’s Fez
Weave in Moss. The Lorfords armchairs are
covered in Ralph Lauren’s Amelot Ticking in
Linen Blue. A pair of antique Chinese lamps,
with shades in a striped linen by Susan Deliss,
sit on a Georgian oak Cabriole leg dresser.
48 THE ENGLISH HOME

REVIVAL
An 18th-century Hampshire manor house with whimsical
Georgian architectural additions is imbued with a
contemporary take on English country house style
FEATURE ARABELLA MEZGER PHOTOGRAPHY ASTRID TEMPLIER

STYLING CLAIR WAYMAN
THE ENGLISH HOME 49

‘It was the perfect opportunity to use
everything that I adore in one big swoop’
O
ABOVE The Batik ne spring day, interior designer Nels
Lapis fabric and Crosthwaite Eyre and her husband
cushions on the I & JL Antony Lamb visited an 18th-century
Brown sofa are by manor in an agricultural hamlet a
Susan Deliss, while
the art was sourced
couple of miles from the market town of Stockbridge
from The Swan in Hampshire. Set in 10 acres, it was flush with
Gallery in Sherborne. wisteria and Nels “just fell in love with the Gothic
RIGHT Interior windows at the front – I thought they were so
designer Nels and unusual”. She immediately declared her desire to live
cockapoo Otis
there, while Antony was not so sure. “I fell in love with
outside the Georgian
Gothic entrance that it instantly,” she says. “Antony took some persuading
immediately drew as it was near a road and didn’t have any views.”
her to the house. Stalemate ensued, negotiations followed, and
To see more of eventually, a truce was brokered.
Nels’ work visit
Having grown up in rural Hampshire and Dorset,
eyreinteriors.com
the couple knew that when they left London, they
wanted to return west to the countryside so their 
children, Charlie, now four, and Rafe, one, could 
50 THE ENGLISH HOME

Robert Kime’s Lampas
wallpaper in Tomato is the
backdrop to the dining room.
Nels commissioned the
hand-painted lampshades on
the sconce from Alvaro
Picardo. A charming 1970s
Scandinavian Viking ship
candle holder in copper and
oak, bought on Vinterior,
hangs from the ceiling.
Flowers throughout are by
The Unwalled Garden.
THE ENGLISH HOME 51

‘People say the house feels really welcoming
and for me that’s the most important thing’ ABOVE The upstairs
drawing room has
been painted in a soft
pink ‘SC240’ from the
ABOVE Bespoke have a similarly bucolic childhood. “Antony is very Traditional Colours
cabinetry by Waites much a country boy and was desperate to move out range at Papers &
Handmade Kitchens of London,” says Nels. “We both love property and are Paints. The camel-
is painted in Benjamin back sofa from
Moore’s Calypso
quite nosey, so we used to spend evenings with a glass
Lorfords Antiques
Green and teamed of red wine, looking at houses online.” has been upholstered
with blinds in Lisa It transpires that the house is a perfect fit for both in Clermont’s
Fine Textiles’s Vita. their tastes. “I love really high ceilings and lots of ‘Cunard’ fabric while
Menton lanterns natural light. Antony likes low ceilings and small the armchairs and
by Vaughan add a ottoman are from
glamorous touch.
windows,” Nels explains. “The original, early
Fulham-based
Hydrangeas in a vase eighteenth-century part of the house at the front has Andrew Morgan.
from Neptune echo three rooms which are dark and cosy, and then the
the artwork by Flora Georgians came and banged the back on with their
Roberts above grand rooms, so it satisfies both our architectural
terracotta pots by
Rowen & Wren.
preferences.” The impressive marble-paved entrance
RIGHT The south-
hall is an original feature, and the Georgian Gothic
westerly facade facade was added in the late eighteenth century.
looks out through an The house has a heady history. Not long after it was
avenue of apple trees built, it became a hunting and fishing lodge where,
to the pond. from 1776–1783, George IV as Prince of Wales
regularly stayed with Maria Fitzherbert, whom he later
secretly, though illegally, married. Sixty years on, 
52 THE ENGLISH HOME

The plaster ceiling and de Gournay’s
Earlham wallpaper on Blue Grey silk
create a sense of grandeur in the
entrance hall. The 18th-century
Chinese elm horseshoe chair came
from Lawrence’s Auction House in
Somerset. Otis the cockapoo is a
natural in front of the camera.
THE ENGLISH HOME 53

‘My style is English country house for the millenial generation. It’s less
blowsy but still with the mix of pieces from different parts of the world’
ABOVE In the guest William Thackeray is said to have written Vanity Fair very strange heating system replacing. There were no
bedroom, Penny in the house. radiators or overhead light fittings as everything was lit
Morrison lampshades,
In 2015 the couple bought the house from Lady by lamps, and we had to completely gut and redesign
a cushion from
Mahala Textiles and Fiona Inchyra and began renovation works that took the bathrooms and kitchen.”
a throw by Chelsea over two years to complete. “Lady Inchyra was an Having worked under Robert Kime for four years, in
Textiles tone with the antiques dealer, so when we looked around the house, 2014, Nels left to set up her own studio. You can feel
walls, painted in it was beautiful, with huge paintings and stunning Kime’s influence in her varied sourcing and the sense
Farrow & Ball’s
furniture,” Nels explains. “When we picked up the of comfort and ease in her rooms. She describes her
Setting Plaster. Nels
bought the botanical keys and saw it without the furniture, our hearts sank style as “English country house for the millennial
prints at Daylesford. as we realised the state of disrepair it was in.” The generation”. “It’s less blowsy and chintzy but still with
The baskets on the north-east part of the house had burnt down in 1960 the mix and match of fabrics and pieces from different
wall are from Hadeda. and was rebuilt by the Inchyras and never touched parts of the world and with different antique styles,”
again, so there was significant work to do. she adds.
“We wanted to maintain the integrity of the house Nels’ travels have strongly influenced her interiors.
and were very lucky that we didn’t have to do any “My mum injected a complete wanderlust in me,”
structural work at all,” says Nels. “We just removed one she says, “and I love revisiting Turkey to source suzanis
superfluous wall in the kitchen. The complicated bit and find inspiration in its souks and mosques.” From
was that it needed full electrics, full plumbing and the travels to India, she picked up Swat Valley marriage 
54 THE ENGLISH HOME

ABOVE A freestanding BELOW The windows in
bath by Catchpole & Rye the guest bedroom are
sets a luxurious tone in framed by curtains in
the principal en-suite Soane’s Butterflies and
bathroom. The East Tulips. A mirror from
Hampton Lattice floor Indigo Oriental Antiques
tiles are from Fired Earth in Wiltshire hangs above
and the shower is made an Oka chest of drawers.
from a bespoke slab of Nels found the blue silk ABOVE In the principal Palampore Blossom, both the pattern of the rug
marble from Artisans chair at Crewkerne bedroom, Matilda Goad Soane Britain, with walls in by Guinevere Antiques.
of Devizes. Antiques Bazaar in Dorset. shades sit atop lamp bases Papers and Paints’ SC255. A vintage bamboo chair
by Alfred Newall. The BELOW Curtains in from Wallis Antiques is
headboard is in Dianthus Vaughan Designs’ Manisa covered in a leopard-print
Chintz and the sofa is in Embroidered Linen echo velvet from Pierre Frey.
THE ENGLISH HOME 55

blankets and vintage kantha quilts, which, layered with
antiques and intriguing finds, infuse the house with an
atmosphere of exoticism and rich history.
Not one to take things too seriously, Nels has
brought together an exquisite mix of contemporary
and sometimes humorous pieces alongside more
classical forms. A whimsical 1970s Scandinavian
Viking ship candleholder in copper and oak that Nels
bought from Vinterior hangs above the George III
antique mahogany table in the dining room.
Unsurprisingly, Nels knew precisely where she
wanted to start with the interior design. “There were
wallpapers and fabrics that I’ve always loved, so it was
the perfect opportunity to use everything that I adore
in one big swoop,” she says. “The day I first moved to
London, I came across de Gournay’s showroom.
I loved how ornate and over the top the designs were
and I knew I wanted to have one in the house. With it
in the hall, we get to see it every day.” The other rooms
leading from the hall followed, and the drawing room
is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Pale Powder – a gentle,
ephemeral aqua that tones in with the duck egg of
the de Gournay wallpaper in the hall. “I wanted a soft
but smart wall finish which couldn’t be too bold as
there is a lot of wall, and a stronger colour would have
been overpowering.”
Nels was aware of design adaptations needed for
their home to stand up to growing children and a
steady stream of visitors. “Having children has changed
the dynamic of how we use the space,” she says. “We’ve
had to make things slightly more sticky-finger proof,
with softer edges, tougher fabrics, and more pattern.
There are no oatmeal sofas in here!”
Nels invests her rooms with an originality that is
simultaneously comfortable and reassuring. Being able
to host friends and family is one of the reasons the
couple bought the house. “People say, ‘the house feels
really welcoming’, and for me, that’s the most
important thing,” she says. “I didn’t want it to feel
stuffy or my friends to feel like they have to be on their
best behaviour.” The house will undoubtedly continue
to evolve, taking on various interpretations as it meets
the changing needs and discoveries of its owners. ■
ABOVE RIGHT The glasses are from Mrs Alice

courtyard off the kitchen and the Indian block-print
provides a sheltered spot to parasol was an Etsy find.
enjoy relaxed dining. Bold RIGHT The crenellated
geometric floor tiles from Georgian Gothic facade
Ann Sacks bring a modern was added in the late
feel. The beautiful jug and 18th-century.
56 THE ENGLISH HOME

Ironwork Door Canopies
catalogue available
01225 851577
www.garden-requisites.co.uk
THE ENGLISH HOME 57

58 THE ENGLISH HOME
Paradise
REVEALED
Falling in love with its idyllic location
and walled garden, Lindsay Cuthill
and Charlie Harman saw the
potential in an unassuming 1960s
property hidden in the
Gloucestershire countryside
FEATURE & STYLING COSMO BROCKWAY

PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES MCDONALD
U
nable to resist the sleeping beauty of a
walled garden, former London dwellers
Lindsay Cuthill and husband Charlie
Harman found themselves making the
move to a sleepy Cotswold valley back in 2009. The
head of Savills country house department, Lindsay has
seen many an alluring rural home, but when the time
came to buy one of their own, the couple made an
unexpected choice.
“It is actually a 1960s building and was utterly
unprepossessing at first sight,” Lindsay explains. A
giant leap from the picturesque miniature manor seen
today. Rather than buy a ‘bells and whistles’ period
property, the duo “impetuously” snapped up the 
house after seeing it online. “We booked to see it
TOP LEFT In a sheltered spot in the garden a decorative

parasol from Raj Tent Club creates shade over a wicker
table and chairs from Oka.
LEFT Flower-filled borders and carefully manicured lawns
and topiary line paths leading around the walled garden.
FAR LEFT The light-filled, inviting study has been painted
in Celadon Green from Papers and Paints. The Ridge sofa
has been upholstered in a lively Jean Monro chintz which
has since been discontinued. An oversized, hand-painted
lampshade from Twig in Tetbury sits atop a flamboyant
1950s Italian ceramic pineapple lamp base.
THE ENGLISH HOME 59

RIGHT A dapper
Lindsay in the garden
with Sybil his beloved
Border terrier.
FAR RIGHT Convivial
summer lunches take
place around the
cherry wood table
which was a gift from
friends. Charming oil
paintings of
vegetables by
Charlie’s cousin
Victoria Blake-Tyler,
flank a painting of
Bolton Castle.
BELOW FAR RIGHT
The downstairs
cloakroom has a
jaunty collection of
summer hats hanging
from stag antlers.
BELOW RIGHT The
wall above the Aga
in the kitchen is
decorated with
Bristol Delft plates
from Brian Ashbee.
The delightful Eric
Ravilious print is from
Pentreath & Hall.
‘The garden walls were covered in brambles and conifers,

but we hacked away until their glory returned’
the following weekend and offered on the Monday. We he walks through the wide flower-filled borders lining
never looked at another house and moved in five the high buttressed walls. Mellow stone steps lead up
months later,” recalls Charlie, a garden designer. to the lawn with topiary shapes flanked by Gothic-style
Nestled on the side of a folding South Gloucestershire pavilions bedecked with Highgrove roses. The couple
valley, the house has far-reaching views, which was open the garden annually for the National Gardens
another lure. “You can see the storms rolling in, which Scheme and enjoy showing the fruits of their labours
makes for a stirring sight at the kitchen sink, while the to visitors, including handsome hedges created to give
farm opposite has a livery yard and raises sheep, so the impression of two ‘rooms.’
there is always a pastoral scene,” says Lindsay. Inspired by the gardens at Badminton House, a
Rising around the house are the stately stone walls of narrow gap leads into a wild grass meadow joyfully
a grand walled garden that had belonged to a country strewn with wild bee orchids and with an orchard
seat higher up the hill. “The former owner of the beyond. “The walls were covered in brambles and
manor had designed and built our house to live in conifers, and God knows what, but we hacked away
retirement, and we are now great friends with his son until their former glory returned,” says Lindsay. “The 
who lives in nearby Badminton,” explains Lindsay as setting gave the house a dignity and poise that inspired
60 THE ENGLISH HOME

THE ENGLISH HOME 61
LEFT The entrance
hall sports an
18th-century
sideboard from
Bonhams topped
with Iznik lamps
from Oka. The stair
runner is from Roger
Oates Design.
BELOW LEFT
Looking through the
upstairs drawing
room door, gilded
sconces holding the
couple’s Chinese
Famille Rose
porcelain create an
ornate focal point in
the staircase hall.
BELOW RIGHT The
house sits nestled
in the initially
unpromising yet
now idyllic
gardens created
by the couple.
‘The setting gave the house a dignity and poise that inspired us
to transform the structure into a place we would want to live’
62 THE ENGLISH HOME

us to transform the structure into a place we would particularly idyllic weekend with friends in Norfolk ABOVE The upstairs
want to live.” that convinced them of the pressing need for what drawing room has
The couple initially attempted to live in the rather was initially to be a weekend country house. “I was been painted in the
soft pink SC240 from
tired house as it was, but, recalls Charlie, “it was only brought up in rural Essex and moved to London the Traditional
when the drainpipes and the hot water tank gave up when I was 20,” says Lindsay. “Having been in the Colours range at
on the same weekend that we were spurred into property world for nearly three decades has spurred Papers & Paints. The
action.” Working with architect Mark Watson of on my interest in interior design and kept me camel-back sofa from
Bath-based practice Bertram, Watson & Fell was the stimulated – constantly seeing other people’s ideas Lorfords Antiques
has been upholstered
perfect choice for the challenge the house posed. “He keeps me sharp,” he laughs. His Instagram tours of in Claremont’s
was used to doing much grander period houses, so this various mouth-watering properties have proved Cunard fabric while
was a very modest job by his standards,” explains popular, particularly in lockdown, when people were the armchairs and
Lindsay with a wry smile. “He said we couldn’t afford unable to visit other houses. Combining easy humour ottoman are from
to knock it down, but very little remained of the with an elegant panache and an evident passion for Fulham-based
Andrew Morgan.
original house several weeks into the project. The architecture and the arts sets Lindsay’s videos apart
drawing room was always on the first (or upper garden from others. Highlights include Cecil Beaton’s former
floor), but we enlarged it. A kitchen was created from Wiltshire home, Reddish House, whose recent sale
the garage and a staircase hall from a bedroom.” Lindsay oversaw.
Although Lindsay and Charlie had been happily When it came to the interior decoration of their 
living in Fulham in South West London, it was a own house, the couple knew that, despite the lack
THE ENGLISH HOME 63

‘We wanted an easy country house style in the traditional sense and
one where we could entertain in a relaxed and comfortable way’
ABOVE In Lindsay’s of a large-scale footprint in the structure, they wanted Sotheby’s “over a very good lunch as it happens”
bedroom a pair of “a house rather than a cottage” and turned to their before pointing out the handsome gilded sconces
Barley Twist friend Erik Karlsen of the London-based eponymous throughout the house. “A friend found them at TK
candlestick table
design company. Having worked with important Maxx, of all places, and they are great visual trickery,
lamps from Vaughan
sit on top of a chest country houses such as Renishaw Hall, home of the especially holding our collection of Chinese Famille
of drawers found Sitwell family, Karlsen understood the brief perfectly Rose porcelain over the staircase.”
while foraging for and sourced fabrics as well as arranging curtains and Understated in a relaxed English manner, with
antiques in Tetbury. blinds to establish a feeling of, in Lindsay’s words, “an touches of playfulness in the homages to the pursuits
ABOVE RIGHT In easy country house style in the traditional sense and of country life, the house’s interiors reflect Lindsay
this guest bedroom
the headboards
one where we could entertain in a relaxed and and Charlie perfectly. “Inevitably, after 13 years in this
and valances are comfortable way”. current set-up, we do now want to make some changes,
in a Brunschwig While many of the furnishings were inherited from probably making a simpler scheme,” muses Lindsay.
& Fils fabric. Charlie’s family, the couple enjoy foraging for antique “We are lucky to have lots of friends in the interiors
finds at local gems such as Lorfords and Brownrigg world and so are inevitably influenced by them, but
Antiques in nearby Tetbury. Lindsay, a fount of otherwise, I’m a magpie and take ideas from
amusing anecdotes, tells the story of buying the everyone!” Time will tell what the next chapter holds
striking Flemish tapestry in his bedroom from for this magical house perched on its secret hillside. ■
64 THE ENGLISH HOME

LENNOX CATO
ANTIQUES & WORKS OF ART
Est. 1978
BY APPOINTMENT TO
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN
BED MANUFACTURERS
WROUGHT IRON AND BRASS BED COMPANY LIMITED
NORFOLK
Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co.

Handmade in Norfolk | Guaranteed to last a lifetime
A family company flying the flag for British handmade

metal beds and exceptionally exquisite craftsmanship.
1 The Square, Church Street, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 5BD www.wroughtironandbrassbed.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1732 865988 M: +44 (0)7836233473
www.lennoxcato.com 01485 542516
THE ENGLISH HOME 65

PASSION
PROJECT
Falling for its old-fashioned charm, interior
designer Katharine Paravicini has coaxed this
Wiltshire cottage back to life with colour,
pattern and collected treasures
FEATURE KERRYN HARPER-CUSS
PHOTOGRAPHY JONATHAN BOND
Katharine painted the
Bloomsbury-style
border around the
open hearth in the
kitchen. The framed
domino papers are
from Antoinette
Poisson and the
pendant light was
made to a bespoke
design by Hastshilp.
THE ENGLISH HOME 67

‘This house had a lovely old-fashioned
feel to it, which I’m keen to retain’
W
ABOVE The brick and ith her magpie eye and impeccable
flint house was built antennae for sourcing beautiful,
around 1750 and is
unusual things, Katharine Paravicini’s
located in a Wiltshire
village near the North cottage in Wiltshire is a trove of
Wessex Downs. It interior treasure. Cabinets burst with vintage ceramics
was once a terrace and artisan glassware, walls display plates and
of three cottages. collections of art, and antique furniture adds depth and
LEFT The kitchen character. In every room, Katharine has thoughtfully
units are painted in
used colour, pattern and detail to add charm and a
Babouche by Farrow
& Ball and the sense of calm for a modern take on country style.
unlacquered brass Walking around the interiors, it is hard to reconcile
kitchen tap is from the way they look now with the photographs she has
Aston Matthews. The from when she and her husband Jack first bought the
enamel splatter
house in December 2019. The rooms remain modest
ceiling lights are from
Dyke & Dean and the in size but are otherwise utterly transformed. Gone
rush floor mats are are the pine-clad walls, the dark stained beams, the
from Edit58. makeshift carpeted 1950s kitchen and the exposed
pipework throughout.
“The house hadn’t been lived in for more than a
year and was very run down,” Katharine explains. “It
didn’t have central heating or hot water. We bought

68 THE ENGLISH HOME

Katharine needed more
storage for her collection of
glassware and ceramics and
this dresser was a
serendipitous find on the
Selling Antiques website.
THE ENGLISH HOME 69

ABOVE The sofa in it knowing we couldn’t live in it straight away and that and nostalgic atmosphere that captured Katharine’s
the sitting room is we would have to rewire, replumb, rip down all the heart. “We didn’t have a huge budget to buy
covered in Lost and ceilings and redo them and do a lot of work on the somewhere, but it was so important that whatever we
Found by Kit Kemp
at Christopher Farr
floors. Thankfully, during the works, we didn’t bought had the right feel and the potential to make it
Cloth and finished discover any further problems with the house, and so our own,” she says. “This house had a lovely old-
with a Samuel & at that stage, our priority was all about making the fashioned feel to it which I was keen to retain, and
Sons bullion fringe. house liveable and cosy.” although it needed gutting, there was something so
A vintage suzani and The pretty brick and flint house was originally a simple about the way the previous owners had lived
Claremont’s Matelas
de Laine are used for
terrace of three cottages, built around 1750. The here that gave it an atmosphere I loved.”
the bespoke previous owners had lived there since the 1950s. Many It must be said that as a professional interior
ottoman, while the buyers would have been deterred from taking on such designer, Katharine has a plethora of skills and
blinds are in Sanobar a project, but Katharine and Jack were keen to relocate resources to call upon. Years of experience – including
by Namay Samay from London to connect their children, Violet, aged working at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler – were
from Tissus d’Hélène.
The subtle plaster
nine and Fred, aged six, to the joys of rural life. invaluable to her ability to oversee the transformation
leaves above the The village, located in the rolling landscapes of the of the house in just over six months, including the first
fireplace are from North Wessex Downs, promised the community and lockdown of 2020. She directed works remotely from
Viola Lanari. local schooling they sought and Jack, who spent part London and her mother’s home in Devon.
of his childhood in Wiltshire, still has family nearby. Replastering all the walls allowed some of the
But it was the house’s pretty wisteria-covered facade original window beams to be exposed and restored,
70 THE ENGLISH HOME

‘Whatever we bought had
to have the potential for
us to make it our own’
ABOVE Interior designer, Katharine Paravicini sits in the

sunshine on the front step of her pretty cottage.
and the higgedly-piggledy floors had to be levelled, she found a team of local tradespeople, including the ABOVE Katharine
too. “They were a hotchpotch of funny tiles alongside electrician, plumber and painter. A local joiner also had a seat cushion
made for the antique
concrete that was less than an inch deep above the made the kitchen units, the hall bookcases and
bobbin chair in the
soil in some places, so we had to lay new screed bedroom wardrobes. hall in a Mallorcan
throughout,” Katharine reveals. She had the kitchen The family were able to move in July 2020 and fabric – Bujosa –
floor tiled but opted to paint the floors in the reuse many pieces they already had from their former from The Mews
entrance hall and the passage between the kitchen and London home, including seating and the dining table Fabrics & Furnishings.
The bookcases were
sitting room and layer these with rush matting. “We and chairs. “It was really lucky that it all fitted in,”
made by a local joiner
have always been mindful that the cottage has great Katharine smiles. She had several chairs reupholstered, and are painted in
future potential to extend, so we’ve been careful to a bespoke ottoman made for the sitting room, and new Mizzle by Farrow &
avoid large expenses on improvements that would be a curtains and blinds made throughout. Ball. The bookcase
waste of money in the longer term,” she explains. “The Her talent for finding one-off pieces and antiques lights and shades are
by Pooky.
simple idea of just painting the new floors at this stage came into play when sourcing other furniture and
meant we didn’t have to buy stone flooring, which is decorative details. Katharine freely admits, “I’m always
what I’d eventually like but would only have to be annoying my husband by dashing into little antique
ripped up later down the line.” shops or markets wherever I go. I often find it difficult
Katharine appointed a local father-and-son team to to leave anything pretty I spot behind! Whenever
complete the building works; they were able to work in I travel, I always manage to come home with a suitcase 
a ‘bubble’ through the first lockdown. Through them, full of textiles, baskets or ceramics.’’ She scoured
THE ENGLISH HOME 71

THIS PAGE & RIGHT
Folies Bergère wallpaper and
fabric from Howe at 36 Bourne
Street is used for the blind, bed
and walls in the single guest
bedroom. The white opaline
lamp by Vaughan, discontinued,
is topped with an Alice Palmer &
Co lampshade. The antique
console table on the landing is
painted in Annie Sloan’s
Aubusson Blue.
72 THE ENGLISH HOME

‘There was something ABOVE LEFT A
classic Jean Monro
so simple about the way chintz, Hydrangea

& Rose, from
the previous owners had Turnell & Gigon, is

used for the cushion
on the bed in the
lived here that gave it principal bedroom
and the bedspread is
an atmopshere I loved’ from Sarah K x
Katharine Paravicini.
ABOVE RIGHT A
antique shops, markets and auction houses, including bench from John
Cornell Antiques in
online site The Saleroom. The unusual antique the passage between
bobbin chair in the hall, for example, was a find from the kitchen and
The Saleroom, while the large brass shell candle sitting room has
sconces in the dining area came from Shiny Things cushions from Birdie
London. Other pieces, such as the painted headboard Fortescue and Raj
Tent Club. Shades
in the principal bedroom, have come from family from Matilda Goad
members and Etsy. adorn the vintage
The cottage has undergone an incredible
metamorphosis into the light, colour-filled home it
 wall sconce from
The Hoarde.
THE ENGLISH HOME 73

ABOVE LEFT The
yellow bedstead
‘I’m always dashing into little antique shops or markets and
from Feather & Black
in daughter Violet’s find it difficult to leave anything pretty I spot behind’
bedroom is
enlivened with a was longing to be, and although both Katharine and has become a passion in my spare time, and we are
headboard cushion Jack do still have relatively easy commutes to London so lucky to live in such a friendly village with a
in Tulips of Belgravia
by Ottoline Devries
for work, rural life is living up to their dreams. wonderful community, the school just four minutes
and cushions from “We feel very lucky to have got the cottage just away and lots going on,” Katharine says. “We haven’t
Molly Mahon. before lockdown. I love working on the garden, which looked back.” ■
74 THE ENGLISH HOME

BEDSTEADS
Antique Bed Specialists
In Brass, Iron, Wood & Upholstered Wood
Shepherd Huts | Workshops | Garages | Sheds | Shepherd Hut Studios |

Offices | Beach Hut | Summer Houses | Bespoke Timber Buildings
At Appletree Bespoke Timber Buildings Limited we offer high
Large stock of beds in all styles and sizes. quality, bespoke timber buildings and specialise in Shepherd Huts.
Our family run business focuses on giving customers a friendly,
Handmade mattresses and bases. personalized service resulting in high quality, custom-made
buildings which will stand the test of time. Finance is available on
Restoration and widening service available. all our products, ranging from Workshops, Sheds, Garages, Summer
All items on website in stock and available for delivery Houses, Garden Offices, Sedum Roofs and Bespoke Designs.
Online and telephone sales available and showroom by appointment during Covid19 restrictions
Appletree Bespoke Timber Buildings
Chelvey Court Barn, Backwell BS48 4AA • 01275 464 114 01953 850072 | [email protected]
[email protected] www.bedsteads-uk.co.uk www.appletreebespoke.co.uk
THE ENGLISH HOME 75

PUT YOUR FEET UP
and enjoy a subscription to The English Garden
SAVE
UP TO
43% OFF THE

FULL PRICE
As a subscriber
you will enjoy
OGlorious gardens,
beautiful borders
and expert
designs
O Helpful advice
and ideas to
improve your own
garden
O Imaginative
planting schemes
and guides to the
best shrubs
Plus
FREE
Spear & Jackson
secateurs “The perfect choice for everyone
worth who loves beautiful gardens”
£19.99* GEORGE PLUMPTRE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, NGS
Order your subscription today

Subscribe to The English Garden for just
£44.95 for 13 issues and save 43%
Visit www.chelseamagazines.com/CTEGEH22
or call +44 (0)1858 438 833 quoting CTEGEH22
* Free gift is for annual Direct Debit and Continuous Credit Card subscriptions delivered to UK mainland addresses only and will be delivered to the bill payer’s address.
Gift is subject to availability, and we reserve the right to supply an alternative product. % saving is calculated from the UK full rate of 13 issues for £80.00.
STYLE INSPIRATION
Our special section dedicated to interior design and decorating begins here
SITTING PRETTY
A tiled floor is a practical choice for a country
kitchen dining area, particularly one with four-
legged, muddy-pawed occupants. It can be a
decorative feature too, bringing flair underfoot.
This smart application of patterned tiles and a
border, inset rather than to the edge of the
room, cleverly designates the area for the dining
table, giving it a sense of identity within a large
space. Set the scene for a charming breakfast
with a classic oak dining table and rattan-back
chairs, padded for comfort; pour a fresh coffee
and serve toast fresh from the Aga.
Elkstone Mellow Oak chair £195; Elkstone Mellow
Oak round pedestal dining table, £599, The Cotswold
Company. For similar tiles, try Floors of Stone
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPH ADAM FIRMAN
THE ENGLISH HOME 77

Bucolic
VISION
Achieve the layered charm of a classic English
country home with a quintessentially English
mix of fabrics, wallpapers and accessories
DECORATING
T
he English country house aesthetic blends ABOVE LEFT The
practicality and refinement in a relaxed but relaxed charm of
natural flooring is
considered manner. Here old and new can offset with a sweet
sit together companionably: exposed beams ruffled flounce.
full of character can be juxtaposed with the latest Chair, Foss, Natural,
wallpapers; tumbled stone floors, so practical for rural £79 a metre, Colefax
and Fowler
life, can be softened with an antique rug; and plaster
ABOVE A large-scale
walls can provide a simple backdrop to curtains in the floral rint e udes
latest embroideries and exuberant floral prints. country character.
The mood should exude relaxed confidence with Summer Peony,
layers of colour, pattern and textures, creating a Aqua, £98 a metre,
GP & J Baker
rich tapestry. Country houses suit natural patterns
LEFT all a er
– botanicals and florals abound – combined with ins ired by a
eclectic prints and woven plains for weight and texture. th-century ndian
Consider diverse patterns on walls, floors and soft wallhanging adds
furnishings as well as accessories for harmonious eclectic character.
Citadel, £73.93 a
clashing to create an informal, lived-in appeal that metre, Lewis & Wood
is attractive to the eye and promises comfort. A dresser
Well-upholstered seating filled with cushions, bac ed with a retty
beds made with crisp white sheets, topped with quilts wall a er and laden
with china is almost
and blankets, and interlined curtains to stop any
a rere uisite in a
possibility of a draught entering – an English country country itchen.
home, above all, should have a relaxed, welcoming Diamond Flower,
ambience, making all within Soft Blue, £95 a roll,
content to sit back and Charlotte Gaisford
revel in its charming style.
THE ENGLISH HOME 79

STYLE NOTES:
• Embrace a combination of patterns
• Florals, whether bloom-filled chintzes,
painterly chinoiseries or ditsy prints, will
harmonise within a country house
• Mix in globally inspired patterns and
accessories for an eclectic flavour
ABOVE LEFT The rich LEFT Layer crisp bedlinen

colours of an antique rug with a comforting quilt.
chime with the pinks, reds Pink scalloped edge
and blues in a new design pillowcases from £22; Piqué
by Schuyler Samperton quilt, from £295, Sarah K
based on an antique French ABOVE This immersive
document. See p80 for a trailing design is perfect
closer detail. for a country dining room.
Floriana, Tranquila, £990 a Peony Garden, £528 a
roll, Schuyler Samperton roll, Flora Roberts at
Textiles at Tissus d’Hélène Hamilton Weston
80 THE ENGLISH HOME

DECORATING
The new Cotswold Manor

collection by Zoffany
features designs that
epitomise the country
house look with an eclectic
blend of glamour,
opulence and quietly
reserved designs.
Storks & Thrushes, Tuscan

Pink/Cobalt, £199 a wide-
width panel, Zoffany
Amplify the grandeur of an
impressive entrance and
staircase with a large-scale
floral a er.
Floral Rococo, Red/Plum,
£135 a roll, Icons
collection, Mulberry Home
82 THE ENGLISH HOME

DECORATING
STYLE NOTES:
• In grander properties, make the most of
generous proportions with large-scale
designs on wallpapers
• Give a nod to the history of a home with
antiques and period-inspired pieces
ABOVE Combine choice for a modern

classic antiques with country kitchen.
more contemporary Lo wallpaper,
pieces – this ottoman Indigo Blue, £79.68
adds a shapely tocuh a roll, Sandberg
and the deep fringe RIGHT A Victorian-
is both traditional style bed gives a
and of the moment. period note to this
The Trefoil Ottoman charming bedroom
in Moss velvet, styled in a
£2,300, Anbôise quintessential fashion
ABOVE RIGHT by Cutter Brooks.
A pared-back Rebecca cast-iron
watercolour of bed, from £1,240,
poppies in inky
indigo is a perfect
The Cornish 
Bed Company
THE ENGLISH HOME 83

LEFT Celebrate
nati e flora and
fauna in country-
ins ired designs.
Cushions (from left),
Hidcote, Natural/
Gold, £75 a metre;
Beauchamp velvet,
Ochre, £90 a metre,
both James Hare
RIGHT his hallway
by anrenen
esigns is an
u lifting dis lay of
classic country style
with a modern twist.
A detail of
chuyler am erton s
loriana wall a er
see also
showing the
cra uelure gi ing an
aged atina. ust add
leo ard rint for
contem orary twist.
Floriana, Oro,
£990 a roll, Schuyler
Samperton Textiles
at Tissus d’Hélène
STYLE NOTES:
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHS P76 (SARAH K) ELLIE WALPOLE. P81 ANDY GORE
• Seek out designs that
reference the country location
– think meadow flowers, oak
leaves and garden birds
• Combine old and new, rustic
and refined, classic and
modern for a layered,
gradually evolved look
• Balance the practical with
the indulgent for a country
abode that is suited to rural
life yet feels comfortable,
relaxed and luxurious for
homeowners and guests alike
84 THE ENGLISH HOME

DECORATING
A fine chinoiserie-style
fabric adds glamour
against a rustic finish
on the walls and floors.
Chinoiserie Hall,
Bamboo & Rose, £129
a metre, Sanderson ■
FOR WHERE TO BUY SEE ADDRESS BOOK THE ENGLISH HOME 85

DECORATING
The Considered
COUNTRY HOME
Leading designers and experts share their advice on how to work with the period
features and incorporate practical elements in rural abodes great and small
Heart of the matter

HENRIETTE VON
STOCKHAUSEN –
VSP INTERIORS
A core part of the country house is
the kitchen. In my opinion, the first
thing to consider when decorating a
country kitchen is how you can make
it feel like a room and not just a practical space. Treat
it like a drawing room or principal bedroom; pay
attention to fabrics, lighting and comfort as well as
practicality and suitability to lifestyle. By doing this,
the kitchen will feel more inviting. I adore
incorporating antiques like dressers along with picture
lights, fine art and furnishings that one wouldn’t
expect to see in a kitchen so that it feels more like a
room. Add antique rugs to soften the space and help
with unwanted echoes in larger spaces, unless you have
young children or dogs, in which case, stay away! A sense of proportion
FLORA SOAMES
This lovely, lofty sitting room with
great proportions and plenty of
light is in an 18th-century country
house, which had last been
decorated 20 years prior. The
clients were keen to make it work
for entertaining first and foremost so circulation
around the room was key.
Large-scale furniture (and not too much of it), with
accents of colour and pattern, make this otherwise
quite neutral palette feel airy and sophisticated. The
central ottoman, sofas and slipper chairs make the
mantelpiece the main focal point, but with many
opportunities to pull up other occasional chairs.
Behind the sofa is a console which acts as a table
but also houses a mechanised pop-up television for
comfortable film nights. The clients had lovely artwork
and objets, so my job was relatively straightforward in
making the room flow and their collection breathe
and not feel too overcrowded or formal.
THE ENGLISH HOME 87

Period features ‘Often a country house
JESSICA BUCKLEY has distinctive period features
Often a country house has
distinctive period features to work to be sympathetic to’
with and be sympathetic to. In this
charming early 20th-century decor, but we wanted to make sure that the room
country house, we were invited by was used on a more everyday basis, so the trick was
the clients to transform a large, to create a cosy and informal feel through the
unused and rather formal drawing room into one introduction of layers of bolder colours and patterns:
which was colourful, comfortable and inviting. Swedish blues, raspberry reds and a vibrant multi-
With oak-panelled rooms it can be very tempting coloured print on the armchairs provide a striking
to follow a more traditional and formal approach to counterbalance to the walls.
88 THE ENGLISH HOME

DECORATING
A smaller scale
CARLOS GARCIA
Smaller country homes might not
have the luxury of space for a
dedicated boot room, but a small
hall, a window seat or an alcove
under the stairs can all be suitable
areas to create a versatile space to
accommodate the needs of a boot room, the perfect
spot to enjoy a cup of tea after your walk or to read a
favourite book.
Here, an antique Hungarian bench offers seating
space to comfortably take your boots off after a walk
along with storage to place your dog’s lead and towels
to dry your canine walking companion. The hard lines
of the bench have been softened with a feather French
mattress made with a suzani, and several floral
cushions. This may be a practical space, but it certainly
need not be dull.
Reclaimed pamment or terracotta tiles are a most
suitable flooring for high-traffic and muddy areas and
instantly add age and patina to the space.
I am also a big fan of curtain doors with casual
headings and heavily interlined. Make sure the fabric
is suitably robust. I tend to wrap the bottom part of it
with leather to avoid fraying and getting dirty with
mud. A thermometer by the door makes sure you’ll be
suitably clothed before leaving for your morning walk.
Practical flooring
SUSIE ATKINSON
It is so important to get flooring
right in the country – being practical
is key. I never a use dark grey/black
slate on floors in boot rooms,
kitchens or laundry rooms. I really
like the look of it but the problem is
that when mud or water dries, it leaves obvious marks.
I love a brick floor for a boot room, perhaps in a
herringbone pattern – mud simply dries and can be
brushed away. I love oak timber floors and tiles, too, if
the house is old. It’s always fun to try and find flooring
from a reclamation yard – old terracotta sets, or
tumbled marble or stone. I often use a combination
of brick and timber forming a pattern in hallways as it
can look really interesting.
I have a thing about striped or patterned runners on
staircases – especially if the walls are painted in a plain
colour. I have used antique kilim runners and joined
them together, which looks great. I also like using sisals
as they are strong and wear well. Traditional rush
woven matts look fabulous in country houses –
especially over stone or timber floors – they add a
textured cosiness which is welcoming. 
THE ENGLISH HOME 89

90 THE ENGLISH HOME
DECORATING
An indulgent bed
GUY GOODFELLOW
The four-poster bed was invented
to insulate the occupant from the
freezing cold country house bedroom
of the medieval period. Insulation in
the form of panelling to walls, lined
and interlined curtains, and
eventually central heating, enabled country house
owners to escape from the mass of curtaining. At their
peak, in the 18th century, the ‘State Bed’ was the
greatest status symbol in more important stately
homes. This was the grandest interpretation of the four
poster and was installed in case the king or a member
of the royal family announced they were coming to stay
while travelling the country.
Today, the four-poster bed remains the ultimate
luxury and can be a very expensive investment. The
antique mahogany frame (below right) is hung with
fabrics and metallic trimmings. Hiding the tracks (if
the curtains are required to function) is always tricky
– try utilising a second internal pelmet, behind which
the curtains run. Here, though, the curtains are on
short, fixed tracks, eliminating the need for the second
internal valance.
The pink and grey bed (right) in a Bennison printed
linen, is a much simpler construction, a design made
popular by David Hicks, where a lightweight wooden
frame is suspended from the ceiling and fabric is
stretched over it (known as the ‘tester roof’). From this,
hangs the simple plain valance to the three exposed
sides, and the curtains are hung from fixed tracks
around each corner and also across the headboard
wall. This means there are no posts at all. My own bed
is the same and I cannot tell you how nice it is to wake
up in each morning.
Awkward angles
SAMANTHA
TODHUNTER
Embracing quirky features – in the
eaves of this country house (opposite)
for example – is a charming way to
maximise otherwise lost space and
create pockets of interest brimming
with charm and character.
Putting the bath underneath the eaves in the
principal bathroom allowed us to enhance the sense
of space and volume in the room and has the lovely
bonus of great views from the bath. Dressing the
windows with soft floral blinds take that sense of the
utilitarian out of theroom and make it feel more like
a cocooning haven.
THE ENGLISH HOME 91

A breath of air
‘It is important to keep original
EDWARD BULMER
(BEDROOMS) © SIMON UPTON; (SAMANTHA TODHUNTER PORTRAIT) © JONATHAN BOND. P92 (PANDORA TAYLOR PORTRAIT)
features as intact as possible’
HALLWAY) © ROWLAND ROQUES-O’NEIL. P90 © JONATHAN BOND. P91 (GUY GOODFELLOW PORTRAIT) © ROBERT BARBER;
A country house might have genuine
FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHS P86 © PAUL MASSEY. P87 (HENRIETTE VON STOCKHAUSEN PORTRAIT) © STEVE
KELYNACK. P88 (SITTING ROOM) © ZAC AND ZAC. P89 (SUSIE ATKINSON PORTRAIT) © JAKE SUGDEN; (SUSIE ATKINSON
problems, or it might just be a
project. Mostly it is the latter, but
we’re at risk of ignoring the former
because it doesn’t seem so fun. Interesting nooks & crannies
© CLAIRE MENARY P92 (PANDORA TAYLOR PORTRAIT) © CLAIRE MENARY; P93 © JAMES MCDONALD
The biggest single problem I meet is
lack of breathability. This is visible when it manifests PANDORA TAYLOR
in mould or damp, but invisible when it is in the form Often in old country houses, you
of poor air quality or long-term deterioration. Building get these wonderful quirks, whether
products are dynamic and need to work as a system, it is asymmetric-shaped rooms or
and the top layer is paint, so we are always solving or surprising cosy nooks.
mitigating a problem by using our highly breathable In this room (opposite), we had a
emulsion. Happily, this solution also addresses the fun pair of shallow niches with original
part – your project. architraves around. The client really
The allocation and tonality of paint colour plays a wanted more hanging space, so in order to make use
huge role in the success of a project. It can literally of these, we built out the niches slightly and added
consolidate the architectural and design intent of the doors, keeping the original architraves around the
building, and bring a sense of balance and harmony as edge. The result is unobtrusive and adds an interesting
the room appears ‘right’. The right colour can redraw layer to the room.
the outlines before infill details like curtains, soft I always think it is important to keep original
furnishings, furniture, and artwork are added. features as intact as possible. If someone wanted to
Getting the tonality right helps unite hard finishes take this room back to its original state, they could
and furnishings with a common tonality – one which easily remove the new joinery and you would never
we achieve with earth pigments to ground our colours. know it had been there. ■
92 THE ENGLISH HOME

DECORATING
THE ENGLISH HOME 93

~ WANTED ~
VINTAGE WRISTWATCHES
Rectangular Rolex Princes from 1930s. Silver, gold or steel.
Traditional plain gold Rolex and Omega simple 1950s/60s long service/
retirement watches (pictured)
Omega Seamasters and pre-1980s Omegas in general.
Jaeger LeCoultres, all styles. Looking for Reversos.and Duoplans from 1930s.
1960S Geomatic and Memovox alarms.
IWC most models. 1960S Ingenieurs always wanted.
Breitling Top Times (pictured), Daytoras, Navitimers and 24 hour dial Cosmonautes.
1920s/30s Rolex Oysters, cushion and octagonal ( pictured). Other pre-war Rolex
models. Gold or silver/ steel. Also World War I Rolex trench watches.
Longines, Tudors and Zeniths, pre-1970. Even basic steel models in nice condition.
Early self-winding watches like Harwoods, Autorists, Wig Wag, Rolls etc,
and World War I hunter and semi-hunter wristwatches.
Photo by kind permission of Jane Churchill Interiors
Early, pre-war ladies’ watches also wanted by Rolex, Omega, Jaeger LeCoultre etc.
Prefer 1920s/30s deco styles, but all considered.
[email protected] or tel 07958 333442
94 THE ENGLISH HOME

BUYER’S GUIDE
Ultimate
CREATING THE
COUNTRY
BATHROOM
Whether for a charming cottage or
a grand manor house, we look at the
key elements that contribute to the
successful design of a beautiful,
relaxing and functional bathroom
that reflects its rural location
C
ountry bathrooms may be large or small,
traditional or contemporary, but one thing they
all have in common is a strong connection with
the natural world. Making the most of scenery
will often be the starting point for the design of the room,
perhaps by placing a bath near the window so that the view
may be quietly enjoyed. Another factor is the relationship to
the architecture of the house, with characterful features such
as a fireplace or a beamed ceiling becoming an intrinsic part
of a thoughtful scheme. Tradition may be emphasised with
the use of period-style fixtures and fittings, but modern
Draw inspiration from
elements, whether subtle or bold, can also enhance the
this bathroom in the
space. A well-planned country bathroom will also include Mansion House Premium
pleasing textures and plentiful storage, so that a sense of Suite at Coworth Park
uncluttered calm and luxurious relaxation prevails. hotel, Ascot.
THE ENGLISH HOME 95

Storage
A clutter-free bathroom is the key to creating a feeling
of ultimate luxury and relaxation – and that requires
careful attention to storage, whether it be bespoke,
fitted pieces that can follow the uneven walls, floors
and ceilings of an old home, or freestanding pieces
such as antique armoires, chests or cupboards, which
offer in-keeping character and patina to suit a
country property.
“If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace in a
bathroom, a statement piece can go in the alcove on
one side, with a chunky washstand on the other,”
suggests George Miller, home designer at Neptune.
“Washstands offer the option for open or closed
storage – things that are easily accessible versus things
that you want to hide. For cleaning products,
cupboards or tall drawers are a good option. The less
you can see the better in order to create a calm, tidy
space, with surfaces clear and nice things displayed in
glass-fronted cabinets, storage jars and baskets.”
RIGHT With the bath in a separate space and next to

a window for quiet contemplation, Jeffreys Interiors
commissioned a wall-to-wall double vanity from Sculleries,
with plenty of drawers for storage.
BELOW In Neptune’s Chichester double drawer washstand,
£2,893.50, two faux drawers neatly conceal the
undermounted ceramic basins for a seamless worktop,
with six further drawers below for storage.
ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS

On storage
“The starting point for a
bathroom is to think about
who is going to be using it.
For a guest bathroom, there
is more of a need for things
to be visibly to hand, whereas
in a private bathroom you don’t need
everything to be on display, so the less
you can see the better for creating a calm,
tidy space. Coat pegs are a wonderful form
of storage in a bathroom. They’re great for
hanging dressing gowns and towels, and
for coat hangers if you’re getting changed
in the bathroom.”
George Miller, home designer, Neptune
96 THE ENGLISH HOME

BUYER’S GUIDE
Symmetry
ABOVE In the
ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS Juniper bathroom
On symmetry at Foxhill Manor, a
country house hotel
Our eyes are inherently drawn to symmetry and in the Cotswolds,
“Symmetry does lend itself
balance, and this applies to the design of a country perfect symmetry
well to a country bathroom, combined with
bathroom just as much as to that of any other room. where one is often not limited muted, natural
Symmetrical floorplans look especially good in a for space. It’s not quite as nice colours creates
spacious room, and elegantly complement the classical if you see the main pieces from a sense of calm
features of a period house, often making the most the side, so consider which relaxation. Together
sense when designed around a central window or wall to work on and what you first see when with the roll-top
fireplace. “Symmetry is pleasing, and really does help you walk into the room. If possible, try to bath and generously
sized basins, a
in terms of keeping things neat and tidy,” says place the key pieces so as to get that
cushioned window
Henriette von Stockhausen, creative director of VSP symmetrical view from the front.” seat adds to the
Interiors. “I like to design his and hers basins, with Henriette von Stockhausen, creative feeling of comfort.
matching mirrors and wall lights above. Where there director, VSP Interiors
isn’t enough wall space to place them next to each
other, the basins may sit either side of a large window.”
With a symmetrical bathroom scheme, it is best doubled, it could mean overwhelming pattern and
to keep the elements quite restrained, Von colour. Instead, concentrate on making the most of the
Stockhausen points out. “Because everything is architectural details.” 
THE ENGLISH HOME 97

Grandeur
Employing sumptuous materials, whether marble or
brass, Venetian glass or a heavy curtain fabric, will
always enhance a sense of grandeur in a bathroom. In
a spacious country home, use of scale will also be a key
factor. As James Lentaigne, creative director of
Drummonds, points out: “High ceilings gives the
opportunity to use the volume to grand effect. This
could mean choosing a high-sided bath and tall towel
radiators, a high-level cistern, big feature mirrors above
the basin(s) and decorative pendant lights.”
It is harder to achieve the same feeling in a small
bathroom – but not impossible, says Lentaigne.
“Cottage bathrooms with lower ceilings need to
constrain the verticals. Choose lower-level
sanitaryware, keep ceiling lighting flush and definitely
Fittings
consider built-in storage to eliminate clutter. Create
some open shelves for displaying beautiful accessories,
and the effect will be every bit as impactful as in a
grander room.”
To ensure the highest quality, it is important to invest ABOVE LEFT

A bathroom at Marble and brass
in the moving parts of a bathroom – in other words,
The Newt Hotel combine for
the taps, bath filler and shower controls. An important magnificence in
in Somerset with
tactile element, the brassware should always feel Samuel Heath’s Drummonds’ Double
comfortable in the hand, and it can often be the Style Moderne Ladybower Vanity,
finishing touch to a scheme. As Slane Lefroy Brooks, bath/shower mixer, from £9,360,
from £4,255.20. designed by
chief creative officer of Lefroy Brooks, says: “It is the
ABOVE RIGHT Martin Brudnizki.
jewellery of the bathroom.”
A wall-mounted basin
Traditional pillar taps, either wall or deck-mounted,
set with country
with cross or lever handles, tend to have the look of a spout and crosstop
traditional country bathroom, although mixing things handles in nickel,
up with lever handles and wall mounting can from £634.08,
introduce a nicely contemporary touch. “A brass finish Perrin & Rowe.
is popular at present, and is very traditional and BELOW LEFT
1900 Classic
warm,” says Lefroy Brooks. “A natural brass finish polished brass bath/
means that there is no lacquer to peel off, and either shower mixer with
the patina can be allowed to develop naturally, or the white levers, £2,592,
shine can be brought back with metal polish. The most Lefroy Brooks.
traditional is the nickel finish, which has a lovely warm
feeling, and goes very nicely with a country bathroom.”

On fittings
“The bath/shower mixer is a ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS
very classic, traditional English
product. It works very well with
On choosing new designs
standpipes, which free you from “Traditional craftsmen were
having to plumb a bath into a highly skilled, and they used
wall. If you have the high to love adding detail that
ceilings of a large country house, installing a made pieces stand out. Look
towel warmer that reaches all the way up a for goods handmade in the
wall gives a feeling of plenty. It can really be best possible materials, with
a statement piece.” attention to detail and made to last.”
Slane Lefroy Brooks, chief creative officer, James Lentaigne, creative director,
Lefroy Brooks Drummonds
BUYER’S GUIDE
Drummonds’ statement
Ashburn bath with a polished
exterior, from £3,390, stands
out against a neutral backdrop
and echoes the grey veining in
the elegant marble flooring.
THE ENGLISH HOME 99

Placed under the window, the
roll-top bath in this bathroom
at Coworth Park hotel, Ascot,
enjoys lovely views without
being overlooked. A pair of
towel radiators makes the
most of the space to the sides.

On layout
“Incorporating a seating area,
be it an armchair or chaise
Layout
longue in a large room, or
simply a stool and side table
in a more compact space, can
Since many country bathroom windows are not make a bathroom feel more
overlooked, soaking in a bath by the window while like a living space, adding softness and
enjoying the view can be the ultimate luxury. When warmth, inviting the user to spend more
drawing up a floorplan, this is not a bad start – though relaxation time in their own sanctuary.”
it is always important to consider the positioning of Yousef Mansuri, director of design,
the WC, doors and other architectural features, too. CP Hart
Where possible, locating a freestanding bath under
the window makes great sense, says Yousef Mansuri,
director of design at CP Hart. “Some properties may
have extra architectural details which are crying out to
be put in the spotlight, such as archways, niches, or
blocked windows,” he adds. “Utilising what is already
there can really make the room unique.”
Mirrors always make a space feel larger, and bounce
light around. “For a country or classical bathroom,
adding decorative wall lights either side of a mirror
helps to dress up a vanity area,” says Mansuri. “Placing
lights either side of a mirror also makes an even wash
of light across the face, as opposed to ceiling lights,
which create shadows.”
RIGHT Shelves with books and plants make this washstand

niche feel cosy and more like a living space. The Cielo
freestanding Catino Ovale basin, £3,270 with Samuel Heath
Landmark Pure basin mixer in Urban Brass, £1,824, both
from CP Hart, add to the relaxed mood.
100 THE ENGLISH HOME

BUYER’S GUIDE

On scale
Proportions
BELOW A small
bath, such as
“In a small bathroom choose Albion’s Tubby
a bath on feet and either wall Torre bath, from
mount the basin or use a basin £2,541, if deep
Having often been converted from former bedrooms,
stand. When you can see a enough, is
country bathrooms tend to be either grand and
spacious or, conversely, tucked into a roof space with l ttle ore oor t akes the comfortable to
bathe in and
room feel larger.”
sloping ceilings. “It is important to match the size of perfect for
Phil Etherden, managing director, compact spaces.
the fittings to the size of the room,” says Phil Etherden,
Albion Bath Company
managing director of Albion Bath Company. “In a
small bathroom a short bath can be the perfect
solution. You can bathe in a 1,200mm-long bath in
complete comfort if it’s deep enough. If there is an
area where the ceiling is low, this is the best place to
put the bath.” Smaller fittings in general are a good
idea but, says Etherden, a shower less than 800mm
by 800mm is not advisable.
With the luxury of a large bathroom and higher
ceilings, scaling up the fittings will better suit the
proportions of the space. A grand bath on a pedestal
and either a wider basin or a pair of basins will work
beautifully. “If a large room has nothing above about
three feet high it can look a little empty and open,”
says Etherden. “Consider adding a grand towel rail
and a high-level cistern.”
ABOVE Converted agricultural buildings can offer plenty

of space but require grand fittings to suit their proportions.
This is the Barn bathroom at The Pig at Bridge Place hotel
near Canterbury.
THE ENGLISH HOME 101

Texture
In a room which can be full of hard, white surfaces it is
important to include a range of different materials and
textures. On the floor, for example, using old timber
boards or an Oriental rug can create a lovely softness
underfoot, or the more adventurous may opt for
pebble tiles in a small area, while polished plaster –
which can be highly polished or more rugged – adds
wonderful richness.
Features such as wicker storage baskets, tiled
splashbacks and upholstered seating all contribute to
the textural range, while a bath or basin made from
an alternative material can be a dramatic focal point.
“For country houses and converted agricultural
buildings, using materials such as copper and tin
introduces historical integrity but brought right up
to the 21st century,” says Joanna Wakelin, head of
PR and marketing for William Holland. “It’s taking
industrial style but adding a luxurious modern edge.
FEATURE KATHERINE SORRELL PHOTOGRAPHS P96 (JEFFREYS INTERIORS) © ZAC & ZAC. P97 (HEADSHOT) © STEVE KELYNACK. P99 (DRUMMONDS) © DARREN CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY.
Copper, for example, is so vibrant and aesthetically
ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS ABOVE A polished warm, but it also holds heat well, reflects light around
metal bath, such as the room and is very, very glamorous.”
On materials William Holland’s
handmade Bateau
P101 (THE PIG) © JAKE EASTHAM; (ALBION) © PHILIP ETHERDEN. P102 (WILLIAM HOLLAND) © BEN PIPE PHOTOGRAPHY. P103 (ND STUDIOS) © HELEN CATHCART
“We love to incorporate texture bath in nickel,
in our country bathroom £6,889.20, makes
designs through subtle details a dramatic focal
in the window treatment. point, and creates
lovely reflections.
Drawn-thread linen with a
BELOW LEFT In this
hem-stitch row, for example,
country bathroom by
will enhance the textural palette and, as Pippa Paton Design,
a bonus, when light passes through the bronze plaster has
hemstitch it casts beautiful shadows into been used for both
the room. Similarly, using a cotton sheer walls and ceiling to
provides a beautiful layer of texture to give a seamless
a scheme.” transition,
complemented by
Katie Glaister, co-founder, K&H Design
dark bronze fittings.
RIGHT Exposed
timber brings warmth
and texture to a
bathroom, here
combined with
marble and wicker in
Neptune’s Edinburgh
undermount open
washstand, £1,865.

BUYER’S GUIDE
Modernity
A determinedly modern scheme can work extremely
well in a country bathroom, with a pleasing
combination of simple, striking sanitaryware,
traditional architecture and glorious views of the
ABOVE In this natural world outside. “Sleek, contemporary fittings
new-build bathroom create an uncluttered look that adds to the feeling
by Pippa Paton
of serenity and luxury, while also providing the latest
Design, sleek,
modern fittings are technologies and excellent storage space,” says
combined with designer Pippa Paton.
interesting textures “In an older country property, we would expose and
for a feeling of enhance the materials of the building itself, perhaps
comfort and luxury.
an old stone wall or beautiful beams,” she adds.
The bath has been
placed to maximise “Alternatively, simply using natural materials such
views of the as a timber floor or a linen-covered stool will soften
woodland, and the contemporary shapes.” To create a seamless look,
shape of the vanity Paton recommends finishes such as resin, polished
shelf and surround
plaster and very large-scale porcelain or marble tiles,
reflects the unusual
architecture of rather than typical bathroom tiling which creates a
the window. background of grout lines. ■
LEFT Natascha
Dartnall of ND
Studios included
contemporary and ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS
traditional elements
in this refreshing
bathroom, which
On contemporary style
focuses on a dramatic “To let the individual pieces
free-standing bath, in a modern country bathroom
finished in black,
sh ne try to kee the oor
which prevents the
room feeling sterile. and wall fin shes n the
The pea green chair background, with relatively
adds a further dash few materials that are as
of colour. seamless as possible.”
Pippa Paton, founder, Pippa Paton Design

CALLAGHANS OF SHREWSBURY
IN FULL BLOOM
How still life floral paintings have always captured the
imagination of painters and patrons alike
T
hroughout the history of art, there has
remained an enduring appeal in the
painting of floral compositions since those
first representations of lotus flowers by the
Ancient Egyptians thousands of years ago. Over the
centuries, and throughout all the major periods in art,
flowers have been represented by everyone from
Botticelli and Klimt, Monet and Van Gogh and artists
like Georgia O’Keefe, who established a career with
florals as her primary subject matter.
Also partial to a bloom or two in their extensive
collection of 20th-century paintings are Daniel and
Stella Callaghan, owners of the prestigious art gallery
Callaghans of Shrewsbury. During the 35-year history
of Callaghans, they have seen the enduring appeal of
florals as a subject matter, buying and selling pieces
across the world and garnering a reputation for their
extensive knowledge of European art and artists in the
process. “Everyone loves flowers and what better way
to enjoy them than by seeing them captured on
canvas? These pieces add a permanent elegance and
natural beauty to a room,” Stella says.
Perhaps the pick of the bunch from Callaghans is
the beautifully refined Roses and Irises by Marcel Dyf
(1899–1985). Dyf’s sensitivity in depicting light and
delicate texture using a soft palette is perfectly
demonstrated here. Even as he grew older, his work
refused to age, keeping a playfulness and a sense of
timelessness while maintaining a deep respect toward
tradition. Dyf often stood up to paint, allowing his
ABOVE Marcel Dyf work to develop a sense of vitality and energy, and his
(1899–1985), Roses and subject matter was deeply personal to him. The flowers
Irises, oil on canvas, were arranged by his wife, Claudine, who picked the
56cm x 45.7cm, signed. blooms from their garden and chose the vases in which
Here, Dyf perfectly
demonstrates his soft
to place them for his compositions.
use of pastel shades In contrast, Claude Venard (1913–1999), renowned
and impressionist, for his lively, animated and occasionally apocalyptic
painterly brushstrokes. depictions of metropolitan life, painted Bouquet de
RIGHT Pierre Ambrogiani Fleurs in a markedly different style. Venard’s simplistic
(1907–1985), Vase de depiction places emphasis on colour to capture the
Fleurs, oil on canvas,
84cm x 61cm, signed.
viewers’ attention, using thick slashes of oil paint
The vivid palette
Ambrogiani uses draws OPPOSITE Bernard Buffet (1928–1999), Still Life with
the viewer’s eyes to Butterfly, oil on canvas, 63.5cm x 48cm, signed and dated
the calculated chaos 1998. French expressionist artist Buffet uses angular lines
of his brushwork. and a cubist style to depict his delicate subject matter.

PARTNER FEATURE

PARTNER FEATURE
centre stage on the canvas to create a work which is

hard not to engage with. Venard’s use of primary
colours also lends the work a sense of simplicity,
adding to its rustic charm.
The French expressionist artist Bernard Buffet
(1928–1999) too enjoyed using primary colours in
his oil on canvas painting Still Life with Butterfly, which
is a departure from his usual subject matter of post-war
Europe. Despite the use of angular lines and cubist
style he is known for, his floral still life possesses a
sense of sensitivity and grace.
Chaise dans un Jardin Fleuri by Victor Charreton
(1864–1936) depicts a garden in bloom bathed in the
warm glow of the French sun in his trademark riot of
reds, pinks, blues, yellows and greens. The use of light
in the painting is what makes it so special, infusing it
with a rich, balmy summer atmosphere. The sense of
quiet stillness almost invites viewers to step into this
secret garden filled with flowers and ornamentation to
feel the sun on their faces and smell the roses growing.
Similarly to Charreton, Pierre Ambrogiani (1907–
1985) ignites the senses using a high-voltage colour
palette in Vase de Fleurs. He captures the vibrant nature
of his bouquet with animated gashes and thick layers
of oil paint, giving the work a sense of texture and life.
Ambrogiani also skilfully yet succinctly captures how
the light dapples the wall in the background and
reflects on to the vase and flowers, adding to the sense
of vitality. He captures the idea of a floral still life in a
bold rather than delicate way, making it a perfect
centrepiece for any wall.
“Still life floral paintings have for decades been
favourites of interior designers as they bring the
outside in and brighten any room with beauty and
colour,” Daniel explains. Their enduring appeal
as a subject matter is bound to remain for centuries
more to come, irrespective of the style in which they
are painted.
callaghan-finepaintings.com ■
ABOVE Claude Venard (1930–1999), Bouquet de Fleurs, oil

on canvas, 91.5cm x 73.5cm, signed. Venard uses colour to
capture the viewer’s attention in this departure from his
FEATURE KATE FREUD
more usual depictions of metropolitan life.

RIGHT Victor Charreton (1864–1936), Chaise dans un Jardin
Fleuri, oil on canvas, 58cm x 71cm, signed. There is a
‘through the keyhole’ feel to the garden scene in this work
by Charreton, enticing the viewer to step inside.

THE ENGLISH HOME INSURANCE OFFER
A beautiful home…
DESERVES PROPER PROTECTION
Having spent precious time creating your beautiful home, it is important to ensure you
have the right insurance cover in place to safeguard your house, valuables and lifestyle
Now, as a reader of The English Home,

you can benefit from expert advice, a Special benefits can include:
personal claims concierge service and
competitive terms on home and contents • Warranty-free policies – your property is
cover placed through leading insurance covered even if you fail to set your alarm
advisers Smith Greenfield. • The cost of alternative accommodation
if your home becomes uninhabitable
This carefully researched insurance • Cover for garden furniture, statues
opportunity has been specially created and equipment
for homeowners who have household
• Family travel insurance, including for
contents worth more than £75,000. children travelling on their own
It comes with many benefits that

standard high-street policies do not offer,
and readers of The English Home will
For a free quote or more
receive access to products only available information:
through expert independent advisers. Call: 020 8603 3730
Equally important, claims will be settled Visit us at:
promptly and without fuss. www.smithgreenfield.co.uk
Take the palava out
of cleaning your Aga
Agaclean is a family business dedicated to only cleaning aga cookers. That’s why
we know everything about bringing them back to life – both inside and out.
By applying plenty of tender loving care, our team of experienced
professionals will restore your lacklustre aga to its shiny, sparkling
former glory.
With our nationwide operation, we guarantee a fast,
friendly and thorough service.
Why not put the sparkle back into your aga?

Call 07815 475856 for an instant quotation,
email stua rt4snc@a ol.com
or visit our website www.a ga clea n.co.uk
QUINTESSENTIALLY
Inspiration for seasonal pastimes and making the most of life at home starts here
FOREVER FLOWERS
Encapsulate the memories of favourite summer blooms with
bespoke floral art. Pressed flowers create beautiful pictures and
note cards. Once confident with the technique, use them to
decorate home-made candles, paperweights and placemats. For the
best results, pick flowers in the morning after the dew has
evaporated. Look for petals that are flat – in August, cosmos,
FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVE
zinnias and asters work well. Larger multi-layered August flowers,

such as dahlias, roses and lilies, can be pressed but take a bit more
teasing to spread the petals and will not retain their original shape.
Wood flower press, medium, £65, Blue Brontide

ENTERTAINING
SET THE
SCENE FOR:
a formal party
Delight guests by creating the ultimate table
setting for a summer gathering with a clever
mix of classic elegance and seasonal touches
T
here has never been a better time to throw a
celebratory party and enjoy getting together
with groups of family, friends and relatives.
Large gatherings are long overdue following
the events of the past couple of years and summer is
traditionally the season for weddings, balls and other
occasions that call for sophisticated table settings.
Whether celebrating indoors or out and setting one
long table or several smaller ones, embrace the
etiquette associated with such occasions and opt for a
certain degree of formality. Dress each table to impress
with crisp linens, beautifully arranged seasonal flowers,
elegant glassware and china, and table stationery in
complementary colours and as pretty as the table itself.
Take inspiration from seasonal colours and choose
textiles in dainty patterns for a refreshing alternative
to classic white. Invest in extra plates, glasses and
serveware to bring a touch of luxury to the mix.
Silver-plated platters and tureens, cut-crystal glasses,
heritage-patterned china and elaborate place settings
of antique cutlery are ideal for adding some decadence
as well as introducing a special touch. Alternatively,
consider renting additional china and linen to
complement existing pieces, ensuring the table is laid
to perfection and guaranteed to please even the most
discerning guests. 
LEFT Create a beautiful ambience for a formal affair with

a decadently dressed table, complete with aromatic and
impresive floral centrepieces, elegant candlesticks and
gold-rimmed glasses for raising a toast.

Place-setting etiquette
“Always work with the ‘rule of three’ to
bring a real sense of occasion to your table –
start with a beautiful placemat or charger
plate, add a dinner plate, and finally a
pudding (or salad) plate. Have the setting
already stacked as guests arrive so the table
looks beautifully laid. Then add three glasses
– two wine and a water. Vintage glasses
mixed in with more contemporary ones make
a fun talking point; each piece of glassware
will have its own story. We are big believers
in sustainability and being a part of the
rental community makes us proud. We also
believe you should invest in forever pieces for
your home, and mix and match to make each
SOMETHING BORROWED
event different by hiring additional top plates, Sometimes planning a party for a formal occasion and serving a feast
accessories, linens and cutlery to make it for a crowd requires a creative approach. Renting rather than buying
extra special.” additional plates, cutlery and accessories makes so much sense if it
also allows the opportunity to add some fashionable flair to a special
day. For bespoke events such as weddings, where the numbers may be
LOUISA PRESKETT MOBBS, significantly larger, source items from companies that provide curated
CREATIVE DIRECTOR, MAISON MARGAUX ‘looks’ for a co-ordinated tablescape full of style.
La Rose place setting, from £12 (for dinner plate, dessert plate and napkin),
Maison Margaux
INITIAL IDEA
Attention to detail is the order of the day. For very special
occasions, a monogrammed napkin is the ultimate in
sophistication when inviting guests to take their seats.
They are a great memento too of a special event that will
want to be remembered long into the future. Choose a
style depicting pretty foliage and flowers for a summery
feel, and finish with a luxurious velvet ribbon.
Monogrammed linen scallop napkin, £27; monogrammed velvet
ribbon bow from £12, both The Embroidered Napkin Company
HANDMADE
Add a personal touch to the table with hand-designed stationery in
colours and patterns to co-ordinate with the style of the table. Take
inspiration from flowers, foliage or a pretty tablecloth to make a set
of place setting cards and menus. Designer Isla Simpson has created
an online course with a digital app to enable any creative skill level
to artistically produce a bespoke set of illustrated stationery.
Menu and Place Card Illustration Experience with Procreate X5,
£79 for 19 lessons, Isla Simpson

ENTERTAINING
A GOOD VINTAGE
Antique pieces are perfect for
adding a sense of occasion to any
gathering. Use family heirlooms
or source originals from online
specialist collectors and antique
markets. Silver-plated canteens
of cutlery, carving sets and lovely
old ladles and tureens are all
reminiscent of country houses in
times gone by. Also worth collecting
are antique damask monogrammed
table linens with pretty cutwork
detailing, delicate embroidery
and perhaps a lacy edge.
French sterling silver knife and server 
30-piece set, £700, from a selection,
Maison Fête et Cie 

Finishing touches Floral arrangement etiquette
Continue the tone set by the “Seasonality, height and scent are key when it comes to
invitation with complementary
tableware and accessories
dressing the table for a formal event. It’s important to be
able to see your guests across the table, so opt for a low
arrangement, a series of ud vases or a low flower tu e
Bibi wedding less is more. y choosing seasonal flowers, you will e
a le to showcase the flowers at their est and are more
invitation, from
£30 for 10, Papier
li ely to find special and scented flowers. onsider
layering herbs into your arrangements for additional
Pulcinella small wine fragrance and interest.”
glasses, £80 for a set
of four, Oka
ROSEBIE MORTON, FLOWER FARMER AND
FOUNDER OF THE REAL FLOWER COMPANY
MOOD LIGHTING
Candles always complete a table and are a great way of adding pools of
atmospheric light. Tall silver-plated candelabra or glass candlesticks are ideal
Brushed gold drinks for adding classic formality to a celebration table. Add alternative candleholders,
tray, £20.99, Von Haus Silver-plated too for extra colour and interest. Pastel-hued glass-sided pagoda lanterns or
cake server,
bamboo-encased hurricane lanterns will bring a touch of elegant Oriental style
£30, Fortnum
& Mason to a table in a conservatory or garden.
Powder Pink Pagoda lantern, £98, Mrs Alice
Royal Albert Old Country
Roses sandwich tray,
£58, Wedgwood
Ditsy Scallop
Ivory/Blue
placemat and
napkin set,
£58, Rebecca Ivory Ruffle Irish
Udall x Isla Linen tablecloth,
Simpson from £189,
Rebecca Udall
Nickel-plated
champagne bath, £199.95,
Annabel James

BE BOLD ENTERTAINING
Update classic tableware with designer pieces for a look that is
beautifully flamboyant and full of style. Invest in plates and accessories
of the utmost luxury by iconic fashion and interior designers to add
flair and glamour to any table, and as keepsakes or future family
heirlooms. Highly decorated botanical and floral patterns in elaborate Invitation etiquette
Limoges porcelain are ideal for adding a dash of refined summer
elegance to an otherwise classically laid celebratory table. “In this digital age, where electronic
Mirasol placemats, £260 for a set of four; Schubert charger plate in Pale Lilac,
£200; Histoires d’Orchidées dinner plates, £1,300 for a set of six; glasses and messages proliferate in our lives,
cutlery from a selection, all Bonadea receiving beautiful, printed invitations
for weddings or gatherings has more
value than ever. Invitations set the tone
for your event and are a great way to
give your guests a sneak peek into your
plans for the day. When choosing a
design, think about the style you want
to convey – traditional or modern,
town or country – and the key colours
or flowers you plan to use. Weaving
cohesion through invitations to the
on-the-day stationery and styling is an
effective way to tell your tale from start
to finish. On a practical note, I would
always recommend ordering samples
before sending out invitations. Having
them in your hands gives you a much
better sense of the look and feel of the
paper, but also allows you to check if
the font is easy to read, and whether
you’ve made any typos.”
MOLLY PARK,
DESIGN DIRECTOR, PAPIER
SAY IT WITH FLOWERS

The right flowers for a formal occasion really
are all about individual choice, particularly for
FEATURE SARA EMSLIE PHOTOGRAPHS (SUMMERILL & BISHOP) NICOLE
weddings and special birthday celebrations.

HAINS; (THE REAL FLOWER COMPANY) CATH LOWE PHOTOGRAPHY
A floral centrepiece can be as grand or

understated as desired, and a selection of
vases and containers can be used to great
effect. Slender single stem vases, antique rose
bowls and jugs and even tiny bud vases can
look enchanting, particularly when grouped
en masse. For a more flamboyant creative floral
design, arrange a few stems of select flowers and
foliage in florist’s moss hidden within an
eye-catching ceramic vessel or urn. Or display
quintessential English roses in a pretty hatbox.
David Austin’s Florist’s Choice Hatbox
Arrangement, £80, The Real Flower Company ■
ROYAL HOMES
Regal Retreats
Spending time in the country has been precious and pivotal to the Royal Family
for hundreds of years. Here, we look at four of its best-loved rural homes
G
enerations of royals have enjoyed rural life and pursuits through
the ages, and today’s Royal Family is no different. Her Majesty
The Queen, whose passions include riding and walking, has said
she is happiest in the acres surrounding Balmoral Castle where,
as she put it in a BBC documentary in 1992: “One could go for miles and not
see anybody. It has endless possibilities and we love picnics and open air.”
Away from the public gaze, The Queen, her children, grandchildren and
great-grandchildren regularly gather to relax, enjoy family fun and everything
that spending time in the great outdoors has to offer.
Balmoral
Balmoral Castle has been adored by successive
generations of royalty since Prince Albert bought it in
1852 for Queen Victoria, who described it as “My dear
paradise in the Highlands”. It is believed to be Her
Majesty The Queen’s favourite home, too. She has spent
her summers here since childhood, and it is where she
spent her honeymoon 75 years ago.
Here, the Royal Family can enjoy an outdoor lifestyle
among the idyllic surrounding mountains, lochs and
forests. They can picnic, trek, ride (according to Princess
Anne, Balmoral has the most fun riding), hike, drive,
shoot, fish, swim, boat and paint, and can even go
incognito. A former Royal Protection Officer recalled
that a group of American tourists once bumped into
Her Majesty as she strolled around the estate but did
not realise it was her – and even asked if she had met
The Queen.
In the 2016 ITV documentary Our Queen At Ninety,
Princess Eugenie described Balmoral as “the most
beautiful place in the world” and said: “I think Granny
is the most happy there. I think she really, really loves
the Highlands. Walks, picnics, dogs – a lot of dogs,
there’s always dogs – and people coming in and out all
the time… you just have room to breathe and run.” Her
cousin, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, declared
his own love for Balmoral in a speech in May of last
year: “I’ve been coming to Scotland since I was a small
boy. As I grew up, I saw how my grandmother relishes
every minute she spends here. And my father is never
happier than when walking among the hills. My
childhood was full of holidays having fun in the fresh
air and swimming in lochs, family barbecues with my
grandfather in command, and yes – the odd midge.”
Balmoral Estates, Ballater, Aberdeenshire AB35 5TB

Tel 013397 42534; balmoralcastle.com
Balmoral’s grounds, gardens, exhibitions, gift shops and coffee
shop are open daily until 2 August. The Balmoral Expedition
includes a two-hour Land Rover tour of the Estate and is also
available daily until 2 August.
ABOVE (From left): King George VI, Princess Elizabeth,
Prince Philip, Prince Charles, Princess Margaret and Queen
Elizabeth enjoying family time at Balmoral in 1951.
LEFT Balmoral Castle was built out of granite quarried on
the Balmoral Estate and is Scottish baronial in style.

Sandringham
ABOVE King George Since being bought in 1862 by Albert Edward, Prince of described it) and the place where the various
VI, Queen Elizabeth, Wales (later King Edward VII), as a place to enjoy the generations of the Royal Family gather to celebrate
Princess Elizabeth benefits of a healthy country life, Sandringham has long Christmas and New Year. In relative privacy, they can go
and Princess
Margaret inspect
been a favourite with the Royal Family. “Dear old for walks, cycle, and ride – a key feature of royal holidays
the crops on the Sandringham,” wrote King George V, “the place I love and Sandringham is no different. In her 1991 book,
Sandringham Estate better than anywhere else in the world,” while King Riding Through My Life, Her Royal Highness Princess
in Norfolk during the George VI wrote, “I have always been happy here and Anne The Princess Royal affectionately recalls catching
Second World War. I love the place.” Their affection for Sandringham is ponies, brushing them and riding through the
They used a pony
and trap and bicycles
echoed by The Queen, who spoke of “the peace and Sandringham estate, usually with her mother and
to avoid using petrol, tranquility of the Norfolk countryside” in her Christmas older brother, around “miles of stubble fields”.
which was rationed. broadcast of 1992. She added: “I first came here for
Christmas as a grandchild. Nowadays, my grandchildren Sandringham, Norfolk PE35 6EN
come here for the same family festival. To me, this Tel: 01485 544112; sandringhamestate.co.uk
continuity is a great source of comfort.” Sandringham House, Gardens and St Mary Magdalene
Sandringham House, once described as “the most Church are open daily until 13 October (closed Fridays).
comfortable house in England”, and its 8,000-hectare The 243-hectare Royal Park and the Courtyard (with a cafe,
estate is The Queen’s private “escape” (as she has restaurant and the Sandringham Shop) are open all year. 

ROYAL HOMES
Including images and

objects relating to
The Queen’s love of
horses and the great
outdoors, special
Platinum Jubilee
exhibition Her
Majesty The Queen
at Sandringham:
An Exemplary Reign
And A Unique
Country House runs
until 13 October
at Sandringham.
Highgrove
ABOVE His Royal The country retreat of Their Royal Highnesses Cotswolds hideaway. Last summer, Prince Charles told
Highness The The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, the BBC how his grandson Prince George and
Prince of Wales Highgrove House is a neo-classical manor in the granddaughter Princess Charlotte love measuring
at Highgrove
House, where he
Cotswolds bought by Prince Charles in 1980. The themselves against a fast-growing balsam tree.
has been able to Prince – a pioneer in sustainable farming and Prince Charles is a hands-on gardener at Highgrove:
indulge his passion horticulture – has spent more than four decades “I do evening patrols at the weekends and potter about.
for gardening. creating what gardener and television presenter Alan That’s when I notice things, weed, prune and saw off
Titchmarsh described in a 2010 BBC documentary as bits. I love all that – getting involved and doing it is what
“one of England’s most important contemporary I enjoy. Another thing I really love is laying hedges in
gardens”. Open to the public by appointment, it is the winter. It’s something that keeps you relatively sane.”
managed, like the wider Highgrove estate, organically Spending time in his garden is hugely meaningful to the
and sustainably. future King. He told Alan Titchmarsh: “Everything I’ve
Their Royal Highnesses Prince William and Prince done here, it’s almost like your children – every tree,
Harry were largely brought up at Highgrove, playing in everything, has a meaning and belonging.”
the gardens, hiding in their treehouse (which visitors
can still see today) and learning to ride on small ponies. Highgrove House, Doughton, Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Now it seems the youngest Cambridges are enjoying GL8 8TN, highgrovegardens.com. The Gardens are open on
spending time with their grandfather in his gorgeous selected days until late September for pre-booked guided tours. 

ROYAL HOMES
ABOVE Highgrove
House’s south front
seen through the
reclaimed wrought-
iron gates topped
with The Prince of
Wales’s feathers.
LEFT His Royal
Highness Prince
William as child,
leading a pony near
Highgrove Estate in
Gloucestershire.

ROYAL HOMES
to their Berkshire residence, where they spent most of

their time, and The Queen largely grew up here, having
ENTERPRISES; (BELOW) PA IMAGES / ALAMY. P122 (TOP) PETER PACKER). ROYAL COLLECTION TRUST © HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II 2022;
been evacuated to Windsor Castle during the Second
P118 TRINITY MIRROR / ALAMY. P119 © SANDRINGHAM ESTATE. P120 © MARIANNE MAJEURUS GARDEN IMAGES. P121 (TOP) HIGHGROVE
World War. She was encouraged to ‘dig for victory’ by
FEATURE KATHERINE SORRELL PHOTOGRAPHS P116 © BALMORAL ESTATES. P117 ALAMY / KEYSTONE PICTURES USA / ZUMAPRESS.
keeping an allotment in the grounds and, with her late
sister Princess Margaret, friends and local children, she
took part in a series of charity pantomimes at the castle.
For most of her reign, The Queen has lived at
Buckingham Palace in London during the week and
enjoyed weekends at Windsor Castle, which is less than
an hour away and now has many Royal Family members
living nearby such as The Earl and Countess of Wessex
and Princess Eugenie. The castle is open to visitors
throughout the year but, for off-duty royals, Windsor is
also the scene of typical outdoor activities: long horse
rides in the private 260-hectare Home Park, pony rides
for the children, walking the dogs and simply relaxing in
the exquisite gardens.
Windsor Castle At the start of the pandemic, The Queen relocated
(BELOW) KEYSTONE PICTURES USA/ZUMAPRESS / ALAMY
to Windsor, and she has remained there since, deciding

TOP Windsor Castle’s Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle to make it her permanent home. According to Hugo
iconic Round Tower in the world and has been the family home of British Vickers, a royal author and Deputy Lord Lieutenant of
surrounded by The
kings and queens for almost 1,000 years. It is an official Berkshire: “Windsor is the place she loves. She has her
Moat Garden.
ABOVE A happy
residence of Her Majesty The Queen and is still very memories with Prince Philip there, she has her ponies
picture of the much a working Royal palace today, used regularly for there and family nearby. It makes sense.”
Royal Family on ceremonial and state occasions including state visits
the East Terrace from overseas monarchs and presidents. Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1NJ
looking towards The castle is at the centre of the Royal estate at Tel 0303 123 7304; rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle.
the Home Park at
Windsor Castle.
Windsor, which comprises parkland, woodland and Windsor Castle is open Thursdays to Mondays all year,
farms. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert were devoted except 24–26 December. ■

COMING NEXT MONTH
SEPTEMBER ISSUE
O Fresh ways to decorate in classic blue and white
O Celebrate great British craftsmanship –
past, present and future
O Illuminating ideas for planning a lighting scheme
O Explore British vineyards, beautiful homes,
creative courses and much, much more...
ON SALE
3 AUGUST 2022
theenglishhome.co.uk
PHOTOGRAPH (TOP RIGHT) © BOZ GAGOVSKI
The
ENGLISH Follow us on Twitter @englishhometeam

HOME
PODCAST Pinterest at pinterest.com/theenglishhome
podcast. Instagram at instagram.com@englishhomemag
The Lamb Inn, Shipton-
under-Wychwood, where
the menu focuses on
hearty yet fine food using
seasonal ingredients.
Eat,sleep
& be merry
Discover our hand-picked selection of country
pubs offering fine food and well-appointed
bedrooms to make a few days away a delight
The Lamb Inn
R
olling hills, verdant pastures and flower- This Cotswolds delight from the team behind
filled meadows all form part of the English much-loved pub The Bell in Langford (and its sister
countryside’s many charms – as do its restaurant Little Bell at nearby members’ club Soho
historic pubs and inns, along with Farmhouse) serves hearty pub food in keeping with a
traditional dishes created from the land’s seasonal nose-to-tail ethos. Expect dishes such as meltingly soft
delights. Today’s gastropubs showcase menus with bone marrow bread, devilled kidneys and venison pie.
a deep appreciation of sense and place from some The 16th-century building, with its exposed stone
of the country’s finest culinary talents, who proudly and wooden beams, also houses 10 stylishly renovated
uphold provenance and sustainability as key values. bedrooms – try room 10 to enjoy the roll-top bath and
For those seeking a transformative break away, an views out over the terrace.
overnight pub stay allows for true revelling in the
joys of the countryside – here’s our selection of DOUBLES FROM £89 A NIGHT
notable addresses for the best of eating and sleeping High Street, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Oxfordshire,
in bucolic splendour OX7 6DQ Tel 01993 832116; thelambshipton.com

TRAVEL
The Hand & Flowers

As the only pub in the UK with two Michelin stars,
chef Tom Kerridge’s warm and welcoming spot sits
at the foot of the Chiltern Hills in an 18th-century
building in the pretty Georgian market town of
Marlow. Food here is beautifully straightforward, both
in the brilliant execution of traditional pub dishes
such as fish and chips, steaks and pies, and in its
delivery by friendly, professional front of house staff.
The pub’s 15 rooms include breakfast at the pub, and
though all are a short walk away, a drop-off and pick-up
service is included. Note that while Kerridge’s two
other Marlow pubs, The Coach (one Michelin star,
thecoachmarlow.co.uk) and The Butcher’s Tap & Grill
(thebutcherstapandgrill.co.uk) have no rooms, both
operate a no-bookings policy should their sibling’s
tables be fully booked.
DOUBLES FROM £240 A NIGHT

126 West St, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 2BP
Tel 01628 482277; thehandandflowers.co.uk 
CLOCKWISE FROM
ABOVE RIGHT
The welcoming
interior of Tom
Kerridge’s two-
Michelin-starred
pub, The Hand &
Flowers in Marlow;
perhaps the most
elegantly served
fish and chips in the
country; one of the
15 off-site
bedrooms; The
Hand & Flowers’
18th-century
unassuming exterior
belies the
gastronomic
delights to be
had within.

Freemasons at Wiswell
Lancashire offers a plethora of gastropubs, of which
Freemasons at Wiswell is renowned for its innovative
approach to food preparation, using locally sourced
ingredients in classic dishes that bring in world
flavours, such as Nidderdale lamb with barbecued gem
lettuce, miso aubergine, mint and yoghurt. Four guest
rooms were added recently in response to customer
demand for those eating at the pub, at the chef’s table,
or settling in for one of the many regular events such
as the ‘chippy tea’ evenings or guest chef dinners.
Note, too, that the forest in the Trough of Bowland
is home to foodie stalwart The Inn at Whitewell
(innatwhitewell.com).

8 Vicarage Fold, Wiswell, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 9DF
Tel 01254 822218; freemasonsatwiswell.com
Sculthorpe Mill
This glorious three-storey Norfolk pub in an 18th-
century former watermill sits on the River Wensum,
and was recently refurbished by sisters Siobhan and
Caitriona Peyton who run Sculthorpe Mill. The
ground floor houses the bar, while the next floor is
home to the restaurant, serving dishes created from
the county’s famed ingredients such as Brancaster
oysters and St Swithin’s soft cheese. The top floor
houses six bedrooms, all of which have river or
garden views, and none of which (refreshingly)
have televisions.

Lynn Rd, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 9QG
Tel 01328 633001; sculthorpemill.uk
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP

Freemasons at Wiswell, which was once three cottages;
suckling pig at Freemasons at Wiswell; Sculthorpe Mill
is set in an 18th-century watermill in Norfolk; a fish dish
from the seasonal menu at Sculthorpe Mill; Freemasons
at Wiswell sits in the medieval village of Wiswell in the
Ribble Valley.

TRAVEL
The Bear Inn

Food is firmly the focus of attention at this
16th-century coaching inn in the Tudor village
of Hodnet in rural Shropshire, with fruit and
vegetables grown in the 200-year old walled garden
of Hodnet Hall key to the locally sourced menu.
Outdoors, beyond the main bar and restaurant,
are five stable-style dining booths adjacent to the
larger garden dining area. The interiors by Octavia
Dickinson include the seven bedrooms in the main
building and five in the coach house.

Drayton Rd, Hodnet, Market Drayton, Shropshire
TF9 3NH Tel 01630 685214; thebearinnhodnet.com 
CLOCKWISE FROM
ABOVE LEFT
The Bear Inn’s cosy
fireside area; one of
the bedrooms; the
kitchen garden;
dishes at The Bear
Inn change with
the seasons.

The Angel at Hetton
The holder of a Michelin star, this pub in the heart of
the Yorkshire Dales saw chef patron Michael Wignall
crowned 2022 Chef of the Year at the renowned
Estrella Damm gastropub awards in recognition of his
tasting menus and à la carte creations. The team here
aims to create an informal approach to fine dining,
focusing on a relaxed experience within sleek stylish
interiors to best savour seasonal ingredients such as
lemon sole, Yorkshire rhubarb and fallow deer. Its 15
bedrooms are available on a dining package basis only.
DINING PACKAGES FROM £460 A NIGHT FOR

TWO (INCLUDES B&B AND EIGHT-COURSE
TASTING MENU)
Back Lane, Hetton, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 6LT
Tel 01756 730263; angelhetton.co.uk
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT

The dining area at The Angel at Hetton; the pub’s origins
date back to the 15th century; a dish by chef patron
Michael Wignall, crowned 2022 Chef of the Year in the
Estrella Damm National Restaurant Awards.

TRAVEL
The Riverside at Aymestrey

The fringes of the Mortimer Forest between Ludlow
and Hereford house this gem of a 16th-century black
and white building on the banks of the protected
River Lugg. Head chef Andy Link’s menu features
ingredients in keeping with The Riverside’s sustainable
and ethical ethos, whether from the pub’s kitchen
garden, heritage orchard and smallholding, foraged
from the Lugg Valley, or sourced from local producers
(including Herefordshire snails from Heston
Blumenthal’s supplier amongst others). Four bedrooms
in the main building, two external suites and three
garden lodges make up the accommodation options,
all of which come with a guaranteed dinner reservation
slot as standard.

FEATURE EVE MIDDLETON PHOTOGRAPHS (THE HAND & FLOWERS) CRISTIAN BARNETT; (THE LOCH & THE TYNE; THE ANGEL AT HETTON) TIM GREEN; (THE BEAR INN) ANDY HUGHES
Aymestrey, Herefordshire, HR6 9ST

& HELEN CATHCART; (SCULTHORPE MILL) JOE WARING; (SCULTHORPE MILL EXTERIOR) SAM SCOTT-HUNTER; (FREEMASONS AT WISWELL) CARL SUKONIK / THE VAIN PHOTOGRAPHY
Tel 01568 708440; riversideaymestrey.co.uk
The Loch & The Tyne

From the hand of Scottish-born Adam Handling –
a BBC Masterchef: The Professionals finalist – The Loch
& The Tyne is a pub with two rooms set in beautiful
countryside near Windsor and its famous Royal
residence. Here a menu with classic pub food and a
zero-waste approach at its heart uses the best British
seasonal ingredients. These include produce from the
on-site vegetable gardens designed to provide for a
constantly-changing, sustainable menu. Be sure to
sample a glass of sparkling wine from Handling’s own
Kent vineyard for perfectly paired enjoyment.

10 Crimp Hill, Old Windsor, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 2QY
Tel 01753 851470; lochandtyne.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT

Trout with a modern twist at The Riverside at Aymestrey
in Herefordshire; The Loch & The Tyne, set in the
countryside in Old Windsor; one of the two rooms at
The Loch & The Tyne where an overnight stay includes
breakfast; the menu at The Loch & The Tyne features
seasonal ingredients from its vegetable garden.

How did you find your home?
My partner had seen the property on the
market online a couple of years before we
decided to move to the area. We had been
unsuccessfully searching in Cornwall for
about a year, but the day we decided to
set our sights on South Devon (where
my partner grew up), this property came
back on the market. It’s a very old, semi-
detached, one-bedroom house which made
up two of six ‘hovels’ in a row backing
onto burgage plots. We viewed it once in
the winter, made an offer, then everything
was put on hold because of Covid. We
moved the following summer.
What made you choose your home

and garden?
The view! We are tucked in between back
gardens with big views of the valley. The
My English
Home & Garden
garden really sold the place. It’s magical,
and an example of how you can squeeze
a productive, ecological garden into an
average-sized plot. The house had great
potential, too. The internal walls are
made from wattle and daub, but all the
Horticulturist and television presenter Poppy Okotcha
original features had been stripped out.
We wanted to return a feeling of age, shares the joy of making the move from London to a house
craft and character into the space. with magical views over the Devonshire countryside
What is your interior design
inspiration? what we have come to call the “sky bridge” Finally, what are your tips for
I would say it’s an ode to craftsmanship, – a grand name for a concrete slab that combining elements of ecological
sustainability and simplicity, and for my crosses the gap between the house and gardening into a quintessentially
partner, who’s an architect, a love of wood. garden. I’m growing honeysuckle, wild English garden?
There’s something really alive about items clematis and jasmine on the bridge’s Ecological gardening marries so well with
that have been made by a person who loves battered railings and I have visions of English cottage gardens, which are a huge
their craft, items with a human story the scent from the flowers wafting in inspiration to me. For a garden to be
behind them. It connects us to the through the living room door, which we sustainable, it needs to be rooted in place.
creation and value of all these things we only ever really close in a storm. We’ve For example, a Mediterranean garden isn’t
think we need. The kitchen countertop is hung a big mirror in the living room suited to this rather damp part of the
made from reclaimed scaffold boards, and looking out of the window, to reflect the world. Like ecological gardens, traditional
rather than buying new floorboards, we hilly views. It’s like a painting that changes cottage gardens were originally spaces that
had them flipped and sanded; they are with the seasons. were both beautiful and productive,
beautiful and we hope they’ll live out a featuring wild, native flowers as well as
FEATURE CINEAD MCTERNAN PHOTOGRAPH © GABBY SWEET
good many more years in this house now. Where does your passion for chickens and bees. They would have been
ecological gardening originate? organic, too, before the widespread use of
How does the interior connect to Simply put, I think it started with my herbicides and pesticides following the
the garden? Mum and Grandma (also known as Second World War. But, excitingly, the
The ground floor is below the garden level, ‘Grandma With The Nice Garden’ when principles of ecological gardening can be
so we painted the walls a greenish grey I was little) and ended with me searching woven into any gardening style. Cottage
tone (Gregory’s Den by Earthborn paints) for more meaning in life in my early 20s. gardens are just particularly dear to me.
to give it a cosy rabbit warren feel, with a Having worked as a model for a few years,
great big bookcase along one wall... it’s a I was lost and tired; I was looking for a Poppy is currently building an online course
place to look inwards, be quiet and learn. career that would be good for myself, about ecological gardening and speaking at
The first floor (the living room and others, and the Earth. Working in the events and festivals this summer. For more
kitchen) is connected to the outside by food-growing space ticked all those boxes. information, visit poppyokotcha.com ■

New York | London | Dubai
Sculptures, water features and sundials made uniquely for

you
davidharber.co.uk | +44 (0) 1235 859300
FABRIC & WALLCOVERING
bakerlifestyle.co.uk

The English Home - August 2022

Uploaded by

Document Informationclick to expand document information

Document Informationclick to expand document information

Copyright:

Available Formats

The English Home - August 2022

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

The English Home - August 2022

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

The

RESTORED & REFRESHED

8 THE ENGLISH HOME

A letter from home

Beautiful flooring, designed to last Samantha Scott-Jeffries, Editor

Follow us on Twitter @englishhometeam

HANDCRAFTED BESPOKE SECONDARY GL AZING

Our skilled craftsmen are trusted by conservationists, architects

BENEFITS OF OUR GLAZING INCLUDE:

Acoustic protection Elimination of draughts and Preserves the character Virtually

T - 01384 636365 STORMWINDOWS.CO.UK

Editorial 020 7349 3700

The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd

Managing Editor Sarah Feeley

NEXT ISSUE ON SALE 3 AUGUST 2022

THE ENGLISH HOME (UK EDITION) ISSN 1468-0238 (PRINT)

With a range of free standing baths from 1200mm - 2000mm long,

Ignite the fire within.

ELECTRIC GAS WOOD BURNING M U LT I - F U E L

01952 200 444 | [email protected] | www.charltonandjenrick.co.uk

Visit us online for...

COLOUR, FRAGRANCE & BLOOMS ALL SUMMER LONG

THE ENGLISH HOME 17

Sketches Brought To Life

Next Generation Rugs

18 THE ENGLISH HOME

Stately Sleep: Chatsworth & Woolroom

20 THE ENGLISH HOME

in by King Louis XVIII and his Queen, Marie

Exclusive Seaside Escape

22 THE ENGLISH HOME

AMERSHAM CATERHAM GUILDFORD HORNDEAN MORETON-IN-MARSH SUNNINGDALE (COMING SOON)

BIRMINGHAM (HARBORNE) CHANNEL ISLANDS HARROGATE HORSHAM NOTTINGHAM ST ALBANS

T: 0800 030 2000 ndows.com/eh

WOVEN WITH FLAIR

24 THE ENGLISH HOME

THE ENGLISH HOME 25

26 THE ENGLISH HOME

FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVE PHOTOGRAPH P26 (JULIAN CHICHESTER) © ANDERS GRAMER

28 THE ENGLISH HOME

View By Appointment, Contact:

Cottage Garden quilt,

Society of Wanderers CHINTZ & CHECK Small Dash

Great Check window seat,

£6,180 plus fabric, Sibyl

30 THE ENGLISH HOME

Gable wallpaper, £114 a roll,

The Potters Collection Vessels,

PHOTOGRAPH (HIGHGROVE SHOP) © JAKE EASTHAM;

32 THE ENGLISH HOME

THE ENGLISH HOME 33

34 THE ENGLISH HOME

Headboards & Beds | Ottomans | Stools & Chairs

Extraordinary kitchen projects

THE ENGLISH HOME 35

In amongst the range of lighting, lounging chairs, both upholstered and

36 THE ENGLISH HOME

“I love The English Home – it’s a