Well, we have kicked 2016 to the curb, and 2017 offers us all fresh possibilities. I find it rather interesting thatthe first day of January, really just a number on our calendars, can really can change our frame of reference, and even our frame of mind.
I am geared up for a few changes here at home, and also ready to shore up what is already good in my home and life. So with that in mind, let’s start the year with a look at a lovely English home that underwent a big change, from the outside through to the inside.
I think that the owners choosing to take the warm, soft colors from the stone on the exterior, and staying within the same muted color family on the inside, is what makes this home’s makeover so successful. A marvelous merger of English on the outside and French on the inside. I hope you enjoyed this delightful cottage home. It really is an act of determination and love to take on the restoration of a home where parts of the building date back to the 16th century. That makes it even more impressive to me because, while it reflects the owners lifestyle, it still respects the homes heritage.
I am looking to add a bit to the blog. I am thinking about a photo that I want to share, and a “did you know?” , where something related to decorating, homes, architecture etc. comes across my view that I think you might find especially interesting or inspiring, but in and by itself, is not enough to make for an entire post? Let me know if you have strong feelings one way or another. Thank you also for all the email holiday wishes you sent to me. I really appreciate them, and try to respond to each and every one. I have a rather shy group of readers, that seems to prefer direct correspondence versus commenting at the end of a post. Any way is fine by me. It helps me know what is on your mind. laters, charisse
all photos by Jonathan Gooch
This house tour originally appeared in Homes & Gardens, (England) December 2016
We went to a holiday party here in NC and the home was a 1920’s tudor that had actually been a speakeasy; there was a second front door a latched wooden ‘window’ and bars across it for viewing patrons during the Prohibition. The original tin ceilings and bar are still inside. The homeowner’s mother had sewn intricate geometric flowers on a coral silk material which looked exquisite when contrasted with the dark,dark wood. The rest of the house was a stunning and fanciful mix of old and new–a massive quartz island, with three prep sinks and an extension of the island for seating, a massive piece of free-formed wood. It is these contrasts that I think make a house so beautiful, like the one you have shown here–yet it all seems to work together to embrace the dwellers in peace and beauty. As for the “Did you know?” I don’t know so anything you share is welcome.
Gorgeous home in England! Loved seeing the rooms and so glad they left the original ceiling height.
Really like your idea of a picture with a “did you know comment.” Always fun to learn something new!
This house reminds me of my cousins’ home in Somerset, England. I think that house is approximately the same age as this one. Aging gracefully.