At Home with Harriet Thistlethwayte
At Home with is an ongoing journal series exploring the homes of thoughtful creatives. Through conversations and photography, we discover what home means to them, the values that shape the way they live, and the details that make each home unique. Though every story is different, home is always at the core.
Our latest story takes us to the Herefordshire countryside in England where we visit Harriet Thistlethwayte. Nestled among beautiful gardens, historic farm buildings and an enchanting Victorian greenhouse, Harriet’s Georgian farmhouse beautifully reflects a deep connection to nature. Through her Instagram account @yomargey, she recounts her passion for gardening, antiques and living seasonally, which inspire interiors that feel effortlessly relaxed and full of character.
Step inside Harriet’s inviting indoor and outdoor spaces to discover her unique story of home and the values that shape it.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I live in rural Herefordshire with my husband Thomas, Sybil the labrador and three cats. We have four children, who come and go from the house, two grandchildren, and an engineering business. Originally a cook by profession, who I am now really depends on what day of the week it is. Some days I’m a gardener, sowing seeds, growing flowers for the house and vegetables to eat. Some days I’m Granny, in charge of two darlings. Some days I’m finance officer, helping our small company run smoothly, and other days I’m a housekeeper, playing catch up and getting the house ready for the next visitors. But perhaps my favourite days are the ones when I am creative. Cutting fresh flowers from the garden and arranging them for the house, photographing my garden as a form of journalling. Rearranging rooms and sourcing vintage pieces, or just pottering in my studio shed.
Where do you call home and what is it like?
Our home is situated at the bottom of a valley in the Herefordshire countryside. Surrounded by farmland and a large wood at the top of the hill behind the house, it feels very rural, and except for the rumbling of the odd tractor very quiet. The house is Georgian with later additions, but not grand at all. Originally a farmhouse, the back door leads to a cobbled courtyard with garages and stables, and beyond that some Victorian farm buildings.
What does home mean to you?
Home is where I am happiest, where I feel grounded and calm, but also energised and creative. Being Cancerian the security that my home provides is very important to me, and I also relish creating a comfortable, cosy atmosphere for my family and friends when they visit.
How would you describe your aesthetic and style?
My style is rooted in nature, reflecting the world outside our home. I like warm earthy colours and always use natural materials, like wood, stone and linen. Texture is also important to me, I love tactile surfaces and fabrics. Relaxed, comfortable surroundings are what I strive for when planning a room.
Which is your favourite space in your home and why?
My favourite space is actually outside the house, it is our Victorian greenhouse that we completely renovated in 2019. We have vines growing here and a fig tree, and also a large dining table. So this room combines two of my favourite things, gardening and gathering with friends to eat.
How do you choose what to bring into your home?
I like objects to have a story, so I buy most things second hand. I love the idea of being a caretaker of pieces, just part of their journey. New furniture has very little allure for me, and anyway the process of finding vintage pieces is hugely enjoyable. Going to an antique fair or flea market is my favourite sort of day out.
Where do you find inspiration for your home?
I think inspiration is all around us. For me this is the world outside my door, the colours of the countryside, and its natural elements all play a large part in guiding my choices. Also books and magazines are great source of ideas, and films too.
