As part of our journal stories we invite thoughtful and inspiring creatives to share their story of home. From town, to countryside or coast, homes are a reflection of our lives, a source of comfort which connect us to special memories, stories and people. Although each story is different, home is at the heart of every one.
Our next story brings us to a picturesque Cotswolds village where we visit interior designer Bee Osborn at her Oxfordshire home. The Old Bakery, Bee’s period cottage, dating from the 1500s is steeped in history and has been thoughtfully restored and curated throughout. Her signature style of natural materials and calm, neutral colour palettes has culminated in an elegant and inviting home that exudes warmth and comfort.
Bee’s sensitive approach to retaining original features and also introducing natural materials such as lime plaster and wooden cladding, adds character and interest to her home. Her spaces are not only aesthetically beautiful but also functional and enduring. Imbued with stories and memory markers of people and places that she loves, Bee’s home is a personal expression of her affinity with home.
We do hope that you enjoy Bee’s wonderful story of home.
1. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I started buying and selling houses, as a means to support my two young daughters following a divorce. I was then asked to do the interior design on a friend’s houses, which started my journey. To help with my lack of confidence I trained at The Inchbald School of Design which then gave me the courage to set up my own business. I remember the fear though, when I was asked to do my first hotel project, but I’m so glad I overcame it as it not only made me grow so much as a person but also taught me so much about the importance of creating interiors ‘on time, on budget’.
2. Where do you call home and what is it like?
Home is definitely in my cottage in the Cotswolds by the fire, surrounded by my children. I have had quite a turbulent life and so tend to create interiors that are cosy and comforting.
3. What does home mean to you?
Home means a place that nurtures and restores.Somewhere safe where you can be yourself and relax.
4. How would you describe your aesthetic and style?
Calm & comfortable, neutral colours with loads of textures thrown in for added interest. I’m obsessed with lighting as it’s so mood evoking and tend to go for warm, pockets of light to create a cosy atmosphere.
5. Which is your favourite room in your home and why?
The bedroom in the old cottage because it’s so full of character and the reason for buying the cottage in the first place.However planning was so difficult regarding this room and it caused a huge amount of stress, so to see it completed now is a dream come true.
6. How do you choose what to bring into your home?
Things that really resonate with me, as a rule of thumb I never use things that are in fashion or on trend, but things I absolutely love, so they stand the test of time.
7. Where do you find inspiration for your home?
I am so curious and am always out and about.I find everything inspiring, from the bark of a tree, to details on joinery in a hotel bar, I take an incessant amont of photos!
8. Who do you most admire for their sense of style, ethos and aesthetics?
Carole Bamford as we have a similar style of neutral interiors, inspired by nature.I also love her ethos of ‘giving back’ and her attention to sustainabilty.
To see more of Bee’s design work, follow @osborninteriors or visit osborninteriors.com. Bee’s homes and projects are also featured in various publications including Create, by Ali Heath and At Home in the Cotswolds, by Katie Campbell.
Bringing flowers, foliage and decorative branches into the home enhances the look and feel of our environment and softens the boundaries between inside and out. Whether large or small, fresh or dried, an arrangement infuses spaces with colour, texture, form and fragrance and can be enjoyed across the home. Arrangements need not be complicated to look beautiful, often it is the simplest compositions that can be most transformative and instantly make a space come alive. Find joy and calm in creating, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature and rhythms of the changing seasons.
Ideas for arranging flowers & foliage at home:
G a t h e r
There is an abundance in the natural world, from what we grow intentionally to what grows naturally. Flowers and foliage can be gathered from our natural surroundings or sourced from flower markets, florists or stores. Whilst it is lovely to buy flowers if budget allows, there is plenty to forage throughout the seasons. Explore the local area, keep secateurs in your glove box and always observe what is growing along roadsides and in the countryside, being sure never to take too much of any one plant. Wildflowers, grasses, branches and even weeds, there is much to discover!
Whilst beautiful arrangements can be created with very little, gradually gathering together a simple floral tool kit such as secateurs, tape, chicken wire and flower frogs alongside a collection of containers can be helpful if you are looking to develop your compositions.
P r e p a r e
After gathering branches and blooms, condition each stem by trimming the ends and removing any leaves or branches that would sit below the water line in your vase. Extra buds and leaves left soaking in the bottom of the vase can start to break down, harbouring bacteria which shortens the life of an arrangement. Cutting stems diagonally increases the surface area of the stem, which helps with water uptake.
Just as nothing in nature is totally linear or symmetrical, trim the ends at different lengths to create a natural flow of colour and texture and avoid compositions being too stiff and arranged. Half fill your container with clean water and change every few days. Using luke warm rather than ice-cold water gives flowers more oxygen and helps to prolong their life.
A r r a n g e
The success of an arrangement comes as much from what you choose not to put in. Consider the different varieties of stems that you include and how they will work together. Whilst a mix of florals and foliage can look striking, so too can a single variety or colour palette, which can feel simple and abundant all at once.
It is also important to think about proportion in your arrangement. Allowing for more plant than vessel enables flowers to sit naturally in a vase. Experiment with varying heights and shapes of flowers and greenery to capture the essence of their beauty and achieve your desired composition.
Branches, whether fresh or dried have a wonderful sculptural quality and can form a simple yet impacting arrangement. Choose branches that have natural curves and movement rather than straight, upright stems. In order to highlight interesting shapes, less is always more when it comes to arranging branches, and there is beauty in the quiet moments, in the negative space.
When arranging it is worth considering the vessel as much as the stems, considering scale, style and the final silhouette of your display. Different shaped containers determine how the flowers and foliage will sit within them, whether loose and laid-back or more structured and formal. Your choice of vessel will be dependent on where you intend to place the arrangement within your home. Any container whether a vase, bowl, jug or pot can be turned into something interesting for flowers. Start by looking at what you already have and how things can be adapted for use. If your container isn’t water tight, a jam jar can simply be placed inside to hold the water. Ensure your vases and containers are always clean as bacteria will shorten the life of your flowers.
Flower frogs or chicken wire with floral tape can be used to support flowers when using wider vessels. Flower frogs have been used as a functional and sustainable flower arranging tool for centuries, dating back as far as the 14th century. Designed to give floral structures shape and stability, flower frogs sit at the bottom of a bowl or vase and have holes or vertical metal pins in which to insert and secure stems. There are many different styles of flower frogs, varying in size, shape and material to accommodate different flower and foliage types.
For small arrangements, bud vases can be used to enhance any space with their simple elegance. The joy of bud vases is that they are infinitely flexible and can be placed almost anywhere. With a little thought and consideration, despite their size, bud vases can completely transform a space whether gathered and clustered together or placed individually. They can also be used to display off cuts of buds and smaller flowers that are not needed in larger arrangements.
There is an infinite variety and supply of uplifting flowers and foliage that can brighten up the home with scent, texture and colour and create beautiful focal points. Whether a single stem placed in a simple glass vessel, a vase of abundant florals, or sculptural branches from the garden, find beauty in every arrangement.
We hope that this post may encourage you to look to the natural world for inspiration and capture the beauty of nature in your home throughout the year. For further inspiration, visit our journal, or browse our Pinterest gallery. You can also find a curation of beautiful and unique vessels for simple, natural arrangements in our online store.
Whenever your are creating beauty around you, you are restoring your own soul.
– Alice Walker –
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The Comfort of Candlelight
The centuries old tradition of lighting candles is imbued with beauty and reassurance and brings much warmth and calm to the home. Candles are often associated with autumn and winter, but we love to burn them all year round, immersing ourselves in the comforting illumination in every corner of the home. Carving small daily moments to slow down and embrace the ritual of lighting a candle can be grounding and meaningful amidst the busyness of everyday life.
Candles are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make a home feel special whether for a gathering or just for everyday. There are endless styles, sizes and colours of both candles and holders available to suit any interior or occasion. Combining a mix of candles such as tapers, votives, pillar and tea lights can help to introduce ambient lighting and create a warm and welcoming feel throughout the home. Even the simplest jam jar or glass when paired with a tea-light can add a gentle luminosity to a space. Natural scented candles also add atmosphere to the home environment and can impact on how we feel. Scents can be changed with the seasons to suit different times of the year.
Every room in the home can benefit from a little candlelight. It is intrinsic to any tablescape and there is nothing more calming and atmospheric than enjoying a meal together around the gentle flicker of candles. Whilst traditional ivory and beeswax candles bring a natural touch to a table, coloured varieties can add small accents of colour.
Similarly candlelight is a wonderful addition to bathing spaces.The bathroom is a sanctuary within our home where we can slow down and ease tension. Taking time to create calming rituals such as lighting a candle can help to create a sense of structure and restore our equilibrium.
In the bedroom a gentle candle flame will give off a peaceful aura, and in the living room candles set on a mantelpiece or coffee table will add atmosphere to the space.
The soft glow of candlelight adds a sense of ease and calm to any space. Lighting a candle is an invitation to take a moment to slow down and set the tone within our home. Visit our store to discover our favourite vintage and hand crafted candle holders and taper candles to bestow a soft glow in your home across the seasons.
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The Benefits of Natural Materials
Natural materials have a rich history and have been used to craft and furnish homes for centuries. They help foster environments that exude warmth and authenticity and enhance both traditional and contemporary spaces. Layering natural materials into a home instantly infuses rooms with organic texture and colour, contributing to a warm and natural feel. There is something profoundly reassuring in the knowledge that humankind has been working with these materials for millennia.
As more and more technology is introduced into our lives and home, many of us crave connection to the outside world. Incorporating natural materials can breathe new life into our spaces and play an important role in forging meaningful connections to the outdoors. In a world of hard, man-made surfaces, natural materials feel attuned to nature and can enhance the way we feel and function. Exposure to nature has been shown in numerous studies to help reduce stress and improve cognitive performance, and natural materials can help replicate this effect.
Whilst natural materials can be more expensive to purchase compared to synthetic materials, they compensate for this in durability and versatility. They have greater longevity, age beautifully and can also often be repurposed for new uses. Natural materials also tend to be far more biodegradable than their synthetic counterparts which are often highly processed. The use of natural materials has a direct positive impact on the overall monetary value of a home. A space rich in natural materials will always be more sought after and more importantly have greater sustainability.
There are many different natural materials which can be used across the home. Here we share some favourites that feature in both our home and store:
WOOD
Few materials can rival the versatility, character and visual warmth of wood. With its natural look, wood creates a sense of softness and a connection to the outdoors. From old and rustic to modern and refined, wood is hard wearing and has an innate ability to elevate any room. It is also incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from flooring to wall and ceiling finishes, furniture and decor. Wooden elements can effortlessly complement any design style and bring a sense of grounding tranquility to a space.
LINEN
Linen is a timeless and durable fabric which has been cherished for centuries. It fits effortlessly into any home interior and is inherently earth friendly, as flax requires no irrigation and very little chemical treatment throughout its growing life. Linen is thermoregulating and offers a refined and enduring elegance but also practicality and comfort. It can be used across the home and is ideal for cushions, throws, curtains, bedding and table linen. Linen upholstery on sofas and chairs adds a touch of casual sophistication, whilst linen bedding invites a sense of calm and serenity in bedrooms without feeling too precious. When cared for it can last for decades, and softens with every wash, making it the perfect addition to a home full of life.
WOOL
Wool is a unique and beautiful resource which has been utilised for thousands of years around the world. In addition to its sensory appeal, it has many exceptional qualities such as its durability, warmth and breathability. Wool can be used, reused and recycled, and is naturally biodegradable, releasing its valuable nutrients back into the soil with no detrimental effects. This enduring and versatile material is also easy to maintain, making wool rugs or blankets a very durable choice in the home.
STONE
Stone is a treasured natural material which can be used both internally and externally. From marble surfaces that exude sophistication in a kitchen, to the earthy charm of a stone fireplace in a cosy living room, there are endless possibilities for incorporating this inviting and tactile material in the home. Mix and match different types of stone in the home, embracing the unique textures and colours it offers.
JUTE, SISAL & SEAGRASS
Jute, sisal and seagrass are all inherently beautiful and hard wearing natural plant fibres derived from the leaves and stems of plants harvested across the world. Whilst each has its own individual properties, all of these raw plant fibres are good natural choices for flooring, rugs and baskets across the home. Their unique texture and colour creates a relaxed, earthy feeling, grounding a space without detracting from fabrics and artwork. Rugs with natural tones and subtle texture provide a timeless decorating base and make a room feel layered and homely.
PALM, RATTAN & BAMBOO
Weaving is one of the oldest crafts known to man so having woven textures in the home is a simple way to give it a more human touch and add natural colour and texture. The humble natural woven textures of palm, rattan and bamboo have an ability to infuse soul and tactility into a space. From baskets, placemats and lampshades to stools and chairs, the natural tones and rustic informality offers a softness and balance to any interior scheme and hints at that all-important connection to nature. Vintage pieces inject a sense of depth and character into a home and provide a unique and affordable option to furnishing our spaces.
CLAY
Clay is another naturally occurring, ancient material which is versatile, eco-friendly and timeless. You can find natural clay almost anywhere in the world, making it accessible and inexpensive. Since it is soft and pliable, clay can be easily shaped into any form and used in all areas of the home. In addition to being a popular building material, clay is also widely used in interiors for walls, floors and pottery. From the beautiful rustic earth tones and textures of terracotta, to glazed stoneware pottery, clay elements bring a strong connection to the natural world into our homes.
There are many benefits to embracing natural materials and textures in our home environment. Helping to craft unique and inviting spaces, natural materials last a lifetime and age beautifully. They have a timeless appeal and help to create a grounding feeling. The layers of organic comfort natural materials add, provide a welcome respite and go a long way in making a house feel like home.
We hope this journal post will inspire you to explore natural materials in your own spaces and experience the transformative power and timeless quality they can bring to a home. For more inspiration for a natural home, read our other posts; Creating a Natural Home and Bringing Nature Home, or visit our Pinterest gallery.
“Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” — Frank Lloyd Wright.
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Creating a Calm Home
Calm is a rare commodity in the modern world amidst the constant barrage of images and voices emerging with the omnipresence of technology. The place we call home is the backdrop to our everyday lives where we can retreat from the fast paced, ever-changing world, recharge and find comfort. There are few places that have as strong an impact on our wellbeing as our homes. Creating spaces that instil a sense of calm can keep us and those around us grounded and transform how we feel and function everyday. There are many different approaches to creating a calm home but when our vision comes from how we want our space to make us feel, rather than just how it should look, we are most likely to achieve success.
Ideas for creating a calm home:
SIMPLIFY & ORGANISE
One of the key foundations to creating a calm and comforting home is to begin by defining our spaces, looking at what we already have and starting to intentionally edit, simplify and refine. Our external environment affects our inner environment and maintaining a sense of order is vital to creating a feeling of calm. Reducing visual noise by paring down an interior allows the intrinsic beauty of light, texture and shape to form the decoration and make it easier to relax and feel at ease. Creating one quiet and organised corner and building on from there is a good place to start. Resetting the house at the end of each day can induce clarity of thought and make a big difference to how our space feels and functions the following day.
Recycling, donating or selling what we no longer need in our home, and implementing simple systems, storage and routines to organise and manage what we wish to keep is key. This is an iterative process and one which may need to happen regularly in order to maintain a feeling of calm. Making more conscious and informed choices about what we bring into all areas of our home is also important. Each object should serve a purpose, whether for its beauty and visual interest or functionality, or indeed both.
Reducing what we have in our homes introduces negative space into our interiors which can help to enhance a feeling of serenity and calm. Every corner does not need to be filled in order to be beautiful. Rooms benefit from space to breathe, allowing the eye and mind to rest. Harmony lies in the balance between pieces in each room and the negative spaces around them. Being intentional about how we plan and furnish our home environment can really help with the feel, functionality and flow, and is key to creating a home that feels calm and peaceful.
NATURAL & NEUTRAL
The colours we select also have the power to enhance the feeling of our home interiors. Whilst vibrant, colourful spaces can be stimulating and dramatic, soft, muted and neutral tones are gently uplifting and can instead create a feeling of calm and inner peace. Simple, neutral colours have been used in interiors for as long as we have been decorating, they complement one other and envelop our surroundings with a sense of calm. While colour trends come and go, their enduring appeal continues to stand the test of time. Neutrals provide a versatile foundation for layering texture, pattern and other colours upon and allow for decorative schemes within our homes to evolve over time.
Similarly, the materials we choose for our home can also have a calming effect. Layering natural materials into a room instantly bestows warmth and comfort due to their soft, earthy organic tones and textures. Natural materials are versatile and wonderfully soothing and add texture and visual interest to our spaces. From wooden flooring or furniture to natural woven textiles, the more materials resemble what we encounter in nature, the more calming and comforting their effect can be. Natural materials are also hard wearing, get better with age and have a timeless quality.
Layering in natural elements such as plants and objects found in nature also helps to create a sense of calm and balance in our home and foster a connection with the outside. Bunches of flowers, foliage or sculptural branches are wonderful ways to freshen our spaces, boost serenity and bring joy to our interiors. House plants are also visually interesting and can also benefit our emotional and physical wellbeing. The intrinsic beauty of natural details cannot be imitated by artificial means. They are often rich in personal association and evoke memories of time and place that go far beyond material value.
SENSORY
Spaces which take our senses into account can also help to create calm at home, since what we see, hear and touch have an enormous impact on how we feel and think. A sensory home means considering and responding to all of our senses, immersing ourselves with elements that help to quieten the noise of daily life and stimulate our ability to re-center and focus our thoughts.
Optimising natural light and fresh air are essential to creating harmonious spaces and experiences at home. Opening doors and windows softens the boundaries between inside and out and can improve our mood, ignite our senses and increase productivity. Making the most of outside views can also be important in helping us feel inspired and grounded. Boosting natural light wherever possible and being conscious of reducing the blue light from devices in our lives can immediately elevate our mood.
Ambiance can be created through lighting, candles or diffusers which all add to a calming atmosphere. Minimising the number of ceiling lights, instead opting for wall lights, table and floor lamps creates a warm and inviting ambience. A calming scent is one of the quickest ways to bring nature into our home and promote comfort and relaxation. Plant essential oils, if sourced responsibly, are a healthy and sustainable way to gently fragrance the air and stimulate a positive sensory response. Using notes from nature can also help to promote sleep and relaxation.
Sound is another powerful tool in creating calm and restful spaces. Choosing music intentionally is a wonderful way to soothe the soul, set the pace and mood in our home and evoke contentment. Music brings a sense of comfort, routine and ritual whilst keeping you in the present moment. Ambient music is designed to relax the mind and allow it to roam while providing enough stimulation to register as inspiration.
Touch is also an important part of the sensory experience and engenders feelings of comfort and contentment. Textiles are a perfect way to introduce soft, tactile textures to a space. From upholstered furniture, to curtains, cushions, blankets and throws, textiles can be layered in to any area of the home.
Well worn and imperfect vintage pieces that have beautiful lived-in textures and character, often feels more warm and inviting than perfectly curated homes. Vintage pieces help to create a relaxed atmosphere where we can feel comfortable and at ease. Mixing authentic, timeless pieces from different eras and styles creates a dialogue of contrast and harmony. Similarly, incorporating a few personal and meaningful touches such as family photographs, art, books or pottery can also help to evoke happy memories and create a homely feel.
As the frenetic pace of modern living increases, the importance of creating a calm environment to retreat to where we can nuture mind, body and soul is paramount. Simplicity and thoughtfulness are key when it comes to creating a calm home. Simplifying our spaces, incorporating natural materials, daily routines, rituals and sensory experiences can contribute to the peace we feel in our homes and help us find balance in everyday life.
Taking time, honouring craftsmanship and listening to our own intuition over the noise of the trend cycle cannot be over stated. Having less but investing in quality and beauty is always the best, most authentic route. When it looks and feels serene around us, we naturally feel calmer and more relaxed. A home which instils a sense of calm will comfort, inspire and nurture us everyday and provide a beautiful and restorative backdrop to everyday life.
We hope this journal story delivers a sense of peace and inspires you to create calm and comforting spaces in your home. For more inspiration, peruse our thoughtfully curated Pinterest gallery.
Space and light and order. These are the things men need just as they need bread or a place to sleep.
Le Corbusier | 1887 – 1965
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The Versatility of Side Tables
As we consider the design and functionality of our homes, we often overlook the importance individual items of furniture can have in our spaces. Sometimes it takes just one piece to transform a room and how we enjoy our interiors every day. Side tables are small yet versatile pieces of furniture which effortlessly combine style and purpose, adding a touch of elegance and practicality to any space. They seamlessly blend into various rooms, adapting to different functions and design schemes.
In the living room, side tables can accompany a sofa or armchair and are opportunities for decorative displays and table lamps, which provide subtle, warm lighting. Similarly, in the bedroom, they act as bedside companions, holding books, lamps, or alarm clocks. Side tables can also find their place in hallways, serving as convenient surfaces for keys and small essentials, or displaying flowers to create a welcoming entrance. The adaptability of side tables allows them to fulfil our ever-changing needs in different areas of the home.
Crafted from various materials such as wood, metal, glass, or marble, side tables come in an array of designs, shapes, and finishes to suit every space. From sculptural modern designs, to more traditional or vintage examples, they embody the creativity and craftsmanship of their designers and makers. With unique details, interesting textures, and forms, side tables can elevate the visual appeal of any interior.
Side tables are particularly valuable for small spaces as their compact size make them ideal additions to rooms with limited square footage. Well chosen side tables can provide surface area and functionality while maintaining an open and airy feel, creating the illusion of more space. Every surface in the home provides opportunities to create vignettes that are personal and meaningful, but most of all, make us happy. Simply adding a vintage vessel with florals or sculptural stems can instantly bring a room to life while creating height variation and scale for visual interest.
Embrace the endless possibilities that side tables offer as decorative accents and practical surfaces in every corner of your home. Visit our store to explore our one-of-a-kind vintage side tables or view our furniture board on Pinterest.
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Bringing Nature Home
Bringing nature into the home adds texture, colour, softness, life, and inspiration to every space and connects us to the changing seasons. Whether we live in the countryside, city, or by the coast, our surroundings provide endless inspiration and opportunities to infuse natural beauty into our homes. From foraging in the garden and local area, to scouring shops and flower markets, bringing natural ephemera into our living spaces helps to create a natural look and feel.
Displaying flowers, foliage and sculptural branches in favourite vases, pots and jugs throughout all corners of the home lends a cohesive connection to nature. Whether homegrown, foraged or bought, all flowers have a place in our interiors and each bring unique beauty in to a space. A single stem is always a subtle and elegant choice while larger groupings can amplify the atmosphere.
While fresh flowers and foliage can be fleeting, some varieties can be dried and used over and over again in different spaces. Hydrangeas are simple to dry and can be stored away until needed. Whether dried or in full bloom their beauty is constant. Large sculptural branches add impact to any room. Opt for branches that have curves and movement to add a natural look and feel. Changing collections and moving things around between rooms from time to time will trigger new ideas and keep things fresh.
Foraged collections of natural objects such as seed heads, pine cones and pebbles are also all nature’s works of art that will add interest to any room. Similarly pots of herbs and fruits and vegetables simply placed in bowls and baskets on surfaces can look beautiful and help to connect us to nature.
Nature is a wonderfully rich source of inspiration and should always be connected to the home. Celebrate the serenity and beauty of the natural world by bringing elements inside to enhance the way your spaces look and feel. For more inspiration, read our other journal posts or visit our Pinterest gallery.
‘People must feel that the natural world is important and valuable and beautiful and wonderful and an amazement and a pleasure.’
– David Attenborough
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The Enduring Appeal of Baskets
The practice of basket weaving is a time honoured tradition steeped in history. Found in almost all cultures across the world, basketry is one of the oldest known crafts, pre-dating ceramics and textiles. Using grasses, rushes, vines and branches from their natural habitats, people have always handwoven baskets to transport and store goods. Baskets continue to have longevity because the beautiful natural fibres they are crafted from are readily available, strong and enduring, as well as being biodegradable.
The beauty of baskets is also their endless versatility and ability to fit seamlessly into all interiors. Because they tend to be a neutral colour, baskets work with any colour scheme, while their weaves add organic texture. Whether the style of a home is traditional or modern, polished or laidback, there is a basket, old or new to suit every space.
Baskets are a practical addition to the home and are endlessly useful in any room. They can be stored under benches and beds, in cupboards, or act as decorative accents in their own right. Baskets combine all shapes and sizes and can be used to organise, store and display a wide range of items and simplify daily routines.
Using Baskets Around the Home
Hallway
The hallway is a busy area of the home which is often overlooked. As it sets the tone for the rest of the home, it is important for it to be warm and inviting. Baskets can play a part in organising things within the space such as keys, shoes and bags and also add an artisanal feel.
Living Room
The living room is one of the most popular rooms within the home to relax. Baskets can help to simplify and organise the space, creating a feeling of calm. They are useful for storing everything from magazines and books to children’s toys, and throws. Baskets are also a good way to store firewood and kindling.
Kitchen and Dining
As one of the most well-used areas in the home, organisation is essential in allowing a kitchen to remain clean, functional and presentable. Finding effective ways such as baskets, to store household items can help to transform time spent in the space. In contrast to the many hard surfaces found in kitchens, baskets also bring a much needed touch of texture and warmth.
Study
An organised work environment can be conducive to a clear mind and better workflow. Whatever the size of the space, baskets provide useful storage for all types of objects needed close at hand such as books, paperwork and small electronics and can be stored on a desk, open shelving or on the floor.
Bathroom
A variety of different sized baskets can be practical in the bathroom as well as having decorative appeal. Whilst larger sizes are perfect for storing laundry or towels, smaller baskets can be used to organise toilet rolls and toiletries. The handmade quality of baskets can transform a bathroom space from rigid and clinical, to soft and inviting, helping to create a relaxed feeling for our daily bathing rituals.
Bedroom
Similarly a range of baskets are useful in bedroom spaces to organise items and add a decorative touch. Extra cushions throws or books and magazines can all be stored and kept within easy reach by the bed. Baskets can also be used to store items on shelves and in cupboards and wardrobes.
Outside Spaces
Baskets are also great for using in the outdoors, for foraging flowers and foliage, collecting produce in the garden or using for picnics and days out.
Basketry is an enduring and sustainable craft which has always been a brilliant way of imparting texture and natural colour to a space. As useful as they are beautiful, baskets contribute a sense of harmony to a home and give our interiors a more human touch.
As lovers of natural materials and craft, baskets will always have a place in our home and store. Find our unique curation of sustainable one-of-a-kind vintage and new baskets online.
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A Seasonal Refresh
There is an innate shift that occurs at the onset of each new season, bringing opportunities to refresh our homes, embrace rituals and connect to natural cycles. We don’t always have to overhaul our homes in order to make them feel different, simple edits can embrace a change in season and freshen our spaces. As Mother Nature transitions around us, we can apply a fresh lens to our interiors and welcome the season in to our homes, adding layers in or stripping away to reflect the months ahead.
Taking time to clean, organise and simplify is a good way to breathe new life into our space every season. Home plays an important part in how we feel and function so investing time and care in our home is a good way to ensure it supports and nurtures us.
Ideas for a seasonal refresh at home:
Begin by writing a list of tasks to do focussing on one room at a time.
Compile a playlist or listen to a podcast or audio book. Having background sound can help to motivate and elevate our mood whilst working.
Start small and work through each room in turn. Be intentional about each item, clearing clutter, simplifying and deciding what can be recycled or reused.
Create simple systems to help organise and manage items to be kept. Woven baskets are a simple and versatile solution which can provide practical, aesthetically pleasing storage across the home to enhance a calm feeling.
Consider investing in plastic free cleaning tools such as brushes, cloths and natural cleaning products. These sustainable solutions will also make tasks more enjoyable.
Seeking beauty and special moments is important throughout the year and each season in nature unfolds a unique narrative. Let the new season into the home by utilising nature; adding seasonal flowers, foliage or sculptural branches to favourite pots and vases to freshen up the space. Add books or candles to set the mood.
Manage what comes into the home thoughtfully, curating each space carefully to help maintain efficiency and create a calm mood.
Take a considered approach to purchasing new items, invest in quality, buying less but better pieces that will endure and enable spaces to evolve naturally. Vintage pieces work well within any aesthetic because they’re inherently timeless and make a space truly unique.
The onset of a new season opens the door to all sorts of possibilities. It is the perfect time to reimagine our homes and arrange our spaces with simple decorative touches that speak to each season. We can give our homes fresh energy and make them ready for entertaining, or transition them into more intimate spaces that feel restorative and calm. The practice of choosing objects with intention and avoiding trends is key to ensuring pieces have longevity and create a timeless feel in our homes.
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Creating a Natural Home
Of all the spaces we occupy, home is the most significant place we spend time and the place where we can make positive changes. As we become increasingly aware of the earth’s limited resources, many of us strive for a simpler life, more attuned with the natural world. Nature has always been revered for its ability to nurture and protect us. Our natural environment and its endless fascinating forms have long influenced artists and creatives alike. Now science is proving how nature can help to improve our well-being.
There is much to inform and inspire us in the natural world when designing and decorating our homes and there are increasing benefits to a natural home. Creating a natural home can play a vital part not only in how we feel and function, but also in terms of sustainability.
Universally we are intrinsically drawn to natural environments, finding beauty and comfort in nature. The gentle rhythms and colours of the natural world are calming, grounding and restorative. The term biophilia is used to define our innate affinity with the natural world and the importance it has on our wellbeing, health and productivity. Biophilia touches so many aspects of the home and plays a vital role in creating natural living spaces.
As we spend more and more time inside, crafting spaces that strengthen our connections to the natural world has become increasingly important. Making the most of views and maximising natural light in our homes by repositioning furniture or window dressings are simple steps in creating a natural environment. Similarly, opening curtains widely to let fresh air and the sound of nature find the way into our home and mind is beneficial. Breathing in fresh air improves our immune system, function and mood.
Another way to help create a natural home is to incorporate elements of nature. Bringing in objects from the outside such as plants, flowers and foliage, whether fresh or dried into our living spaces, adds colour and texture, creating a natural look and feel. Plants add life into a home, not only contributing to the look of the room but also changing how it feels to spend time within it. The beautiful natural forms of seashells, pinecones or sculptural branches are all nature’s works of art, and when displayed in favourite bowls or vases will add interest to any room and connect us to nature. The correlation between plants and wellbeing has been highlighted through scientific research and we know the role they can play in purifying the air within a space.
Along the same lines of bringing in elements of nature, the idea also relates to the materials we use to decorate and furnish our homes. There is no more effective way to create a natural home than by incorporating natural materials. Wood, stone and natural woven textiles such as linen, jute and wool bring a connection to the outdoors and help to create a natural environment. Natural materials infuse a room with organic texture and a natural warmth and comfort unmatched by synthetic materials. They invite us to touch, to use all our senses to experience an environment and they age beautifully over time. Indeed natures offerings are infinitely more beautiful and beneficial than anything we can devise.
As we embrace nature’s materials, we can also draw inspiration from the palette of nature when selecting fabrics, paints and accents for our home. Nature’s colour palettes cover every shade, and each season brings such a wide breadth of tones. A neutral colour scheme is a good starting point for a natural home. Other nature inspired colours, textures and patterns can then be layered in through furnishings, natural objects or books as desired. There is much we can learn in terms of design simply by taking inspiration from nature. Endlessly informative and effortlessly beautiful, it is a wonderful place to turn to for guidance and inspiration when creating a natural home.
Allow time to consider both how you want your home to look and feel, as just with the most beautiful things in nature, time and patience are key. As nature’s landscapes mature over time, so do thoughtfully designed living spaces, slowly growing and evolving with the people who live within them. Just as nature is seldom perfectly uniform, lived-in homes with objects, old and new, full of life and character, help to create a more natural feeling than perfectly curated spaces.
Nature’s sensory pleasures, visual beauty and infinite variety offer a calming respite from the modern world. For the moments when we can’t be outside, a natural home can be a wonderful alternative. Enhancing our connections to nature at home and reinforcing the fluidity between indoor and outdoor spaces can help improve our mood and well-being. Surrounding ourselves with natural elements and incorporating natural materials where possible can all contribute to fostering a natural home.
We hope that this entry may encourage you to look to the outside world for inspiration and create a natural home as a beautiful backdrop to everyday life. For more inspiration for a natural home, read our other journal posts, or visit our Pinterest gallery.
Further reading:
Biophilia | E.O Wilson
Biophilia – You, Nature and Home | Sally Coulthard
The Natural Home | Tricia Foley
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At Home with Gillian Stevens
As part of our journal stories we invite thoughtful and inspiring creatives to share their story of home. From town, to countryside or coast, homes are a reflection of our lives, a source of comfort which connect us to special memories, stories and people. Although every story is different, home is at the heart of each one.
Our first story brings us to a small town just outside of Vancouver, Canada where we are so pleased to visit clothing designer Gillian Stevens and share a home and business with integrity at its core. Combining thoughtfulness with classic designs and organic fabrics, Gillian’s beautiful collections carry meaningful stories and are made to last. We love the simplicity of her pieces which strike a perfect balance between comfort and elegance.
The use of neutral colours and natural materials within both her work and home are soft and timeless and elements that really resonate. The value of enjoying and treasuring good quality products that have longevity is one which we wholeheartedly share. Gillian’s passion for her family, home and work shine through all that she does and it is inspiring to see the world through her lens.
Gillian’s spaces are warm, calming and inviting and we do hope you enjoy her story of home.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m a wife and mother of two boys (with our third child arriving September). I own a women’s clothing brand focusing on timeless pieces all responsibly made. Before my brand launched two years ago, I was a freelance lifestyle photographer. I am a naturally creative person, I have always been drawn to artistic expressions. I love the combination of motherhood and owning my own business. It’s truly my dream come true.
2. Where do you call home and what is it like?
We live in a neighbourhood just outside of Vancouver, Canada. It’s a charming historic home from 1912, and we love being within walking distance from our children’s schools, my studio and some wonderful parks and local shops.
3. What does home mean to you?
I have always enjoyed curating a space and making it feel like a reflection of my husband and I – and then our children too once they came along. I’m a bit of a homebody and recharge in my own space, so having somewhere that feels good to be in is essential. We tend to live more on the minimal side – I don’t like clutter and always strive to be 10 minutes away from tidy, so everything has a place that’s tucked away, and we don’t keep things we aren’t using.
I love a peaceful home, filled with life and love.
4. How would you describe your aesthetic and style?
Warm, minimal and classic. It’s a merge between my affinity towards Scandinavian minimalism and British classics.
5. Which is your favourite room in your home and why?
We recently updated the boys room and got them bunk beds. I have always wanted a children’s room with white painted wood floors, and it feels like the perfect children’s space now.
I also spend a lot of time in our kitchen, prepping meals for family and friends.
6. How do you choose what to bring in to your home?
I try to be thoughtful with everything that I bring into our home. I love pieces with a story and most of our furniture and decor is either vintage or made by an independent designer. It feels good to have pieces in our home that were made with intention and purpose.
7. What inspires you?
My family and friends. Being around a dinner table with good food and conversation. Travelling to Europe.
8. Who do you most admire for their sense of style, ethos and aesthetics?
I’ve always admired my grandma’s sense of style. She always looks impeccable and has such a strong vision for what she likes and doesn’t like. Her home and style truly reflects her personality and it hasn’t changed my entire life. It feels really effortless, even though I know she puts thought into it.
Ile de Ré is a small, enchanting island on France’s West coast, known for its authentically French, relaxed Mediterranean feel. Just twenty miles long and three miles wide, the island is a haven of tranquillity with a sunny microclimate, stunning coastline, vineyards, and a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. Close to La Rochella airport, or less than three hours from Paris by train, Ile de Ré is easily accessible. The impressive bridge which links the island to the mainland, is the only entry point, other than by boat. If travelling by car, the island is approximately eight hours drive from the port of Calais.
The beautiful harbour towns and villages, which make up the island are lined with whitewashed buildings with terracotta tiles, painted shutters and secret walled gardens. There is a distinct colour scheme that reflects the simple way of life and natural coastline. Ile de Ré is the epitome of understated French chic, with an elegant nonchalance and low-key sophistication. The authentic and simple charm is carefully cultivated by local councils who impose restrictive rules to preserve and protect this unique island.
The salt marshes of Ile de Ré are one of its trademarks and are mainly to be found in its northern part. The marshes are home to a variety of plant life and are a source of nourishment for the birds that visit year-round. As you move around the island, somewhere between the sea, land and the sky, you can observe the traditional salt-making practices and appreciate the peaceful ambience it imbues.
D I S C O V E R
Despite its size, Ile de Ré is rooted in history, art and culture and has much to discover. Wandering the narrow, cobbled streets of the ten villages, scattered with hollyhocks, provides a unique feast of historical monuments, artisan boutiques, colourful markets and excellent restaurants. The island also has beautiful sandy beaches to explore and a variety of nautical activities are on offer to suit all tastes and abilities.
With an extensive network of cycle trails criss-crossing the island through fields and vineyards, woodland and salt marshes, cycling is undoubtedly the best way to get around the island and reconnect with nature. Bicycle shops are in most towns and can be rented for reasonable prices. There are dedicated cycle lanes alongside roads and specific routes to follow. Cycle at your own pace through open fields and leafy squares and enjoy a simpler way of life. You can hug the rugged coastline and admire the beaches or explore the salt marshes and oyster bays which can only be accessed by bike.
On the northern coast, lies the historic capital St-Martin-de-Ré, a World Heritage site with a quaint fishing port situated within fortressed walls, set around a gorgeous waterfront. Home to some of the best restaurants, bistros, bars, and ice cream, it is popular in the summer months but not to be missed. Climb the bell tower of the church for a panoramic view of the terracotta-roofed houses and watch the world go by or visit the donkeys grazing in striped shorts, a local tradition.
St-Martin-de-Ré
The nearby sailing resort of Ars-en-Ré offers a direct view of the Atlantic Ocean and has the largest harbour on the island. A unique landmark for sailors navigating at sea, the black and white steeple of the church built in the 15th century stands out from the horizon. Ars-en-Ré offers some unique shops such as Cote Jardin, an emporium of beautiful antiques and second-hand pieces for home and garden.
At Ile de Ré’s westernmost tip, the Phare des Baleines lighthouse, one of the highest in France which culminates at fifty-seven meters high, has been safely guiding ships around the island edge since it was built in 1854. Wind your way up hundreds of spiral steps and be rewarded with breath taking views that stretch back to mainland France and follow with a visit to the museum or picnic on the beach.
S T A Y
There is a range of accommodation available on the island to suit all budgets, from hotels and Air BnB properties, to family friendly campsites and cabins. Just a short cycle to a secluded beach, La Tour de Prisesis ideally located in La Couarde, at the centre of the island providing easy access to everything on offer. This four-star campsite set in a preserved area has good amenities including pool, shop and washing facilities and also offers bicycle hire. Similarly, Huttopia offers camping accommodation amidst forests, vineyards and the ocean. Choose from tents, chalets or wood trailers at two different sites across the island.
For those wanting a more relaxing experience, hotels such as Le Senchel in Ars-en-Ré or Hotel de Toiras in the main town of St-Martin-de-Ré offer more luxurious accommodation. Wherever you are lucky enough to stay on the island, Ile de Ré is quietly rooted in nature and affords opportunities to explore whilst embracing a simpler way of life.
Home is a reflection of our individual experiences and personal tastes and each room tells a story through the pieces within it. The items we choose to surround ourselves with are profoundly intimate. Every piece we collect tells a story and lives on in our homes in deeply personal ways.
There are many merits to furnishing our homes with vintage and antique objects such as the significant environmental benefits over buying new. Whilst the intersection of aesthetics and function creates interiors that are considered and beautiful, now more than ever good design and curation must also take sustainability into account. Choosing pieces that have already proved their longevity through the quality of craftsmanship, design and aesthetic appeal contributes to reducing raw materials, waste and and energy.
Incorporating antiques not only makes for a more conscious living environment, but also adds uniqueness to a home. In a world of mass production and ubiquitous, low quality goods, vintage and antique furnishings have a timeless and enduring appeal that infuses spaces with a sense of individuality. Old pieces stand out against the flow of passing trends and have a beautiful patina acquired slowly over time which cannot be replicated by new goods.
Vintage and antique accessories weave history into the aesthetic of the interior, and gives a richer narrative to the story of the home. Few things bring a home to life more than the perfect vintage piece. From beautifully aged furniture to textural artwork or pottery, old pieces are distinctive and lend a feeling of comfort to each space they are placed in.
Antique and vintage furniture and accessories also add to the charm of our living spaces, making them feel lived-in, adding character, depth and warmth. Choosing such pieces encourages a slow approach to furnishing our homes as vintage products tend to be one-of-a-kind items which take time and patience to source. This creates more considered interiors which feel as if they have evolved over time, rather than being finished quickly with purchases made all at once.
Looking to the past is key to sourcing pieces for our homes that stand the test of time. From furniture, ceramics and textiles to lighting and art, vintage and antique objects provide a sustainable way to add authenticity to a space. They are critical for a home, not just for the personal joy they bring, but for how they pull a room together and make it truly unique. Old pieces work well within any aesthetic because they are inherently timeless. To embrace antiques at home you do not need to be an expert, it is simply about an appreciation for each piece and recognition for how it can enhance the everyday.
If you are looking to add some antique touches to your home, visit our online store or studio to view our curation. We offer unique collections of simple, beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces that will endure in to coming years and deepen your connection to home. To be notified first when the store is updated, please subscribe to our mailing list. We also offer bespoke sourcing and styling so do get in touch.
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Vintage & Antique Art at Home
Home is an accumulation of our lives, a source of comfort and connects us to special memories, stories and people. When the selection of objects in our home are unique to us and informed by personal connections, values and preferences, we are most likely to create spaces that will satisfy and endure.
One of the most powerful ways to inject character and visual interest into a home is through artwork, particularly vintage or antique pieces. Art makes all the difference to the look and feel of our interiors, it carries presence and power within a space and adds warmth and beauty. There is something magical about original vintage artwork, imbued with stories and layers of rich history. It affords opportunities to create individual spaces outside of the trends of mass produced art, and celebrates conscious consumerism. Art comes in many forms and can include photographs, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, reclaimed signs or finds from nature, as well as paintings.
The pieces we surround ourselves with are important and intrinsic to our everyday life and have the ability to spark joy, awe and calm in our spaces. Art provides an endless source of inspiration across the home and can create a beautiful environment in any room. It has a way of pulling a space together and making it feel inviting and lived-in. Working the colours of artworks into your interior schemes and pairing with finds old and new can create considered and cohesive spaces.
The subject matter and medium can make a big difference to what kind of mood an artwork can add to your home. Muted colours can be good for creating a sense of calm whilst bold and vibrant scenes can enliven a space. From landscapes to still life or portraits, whether abstract or realism in style, choose pieces instinctively as it is those pieces that you feel a connection with that will retain a personal value. The beauty of buying vintage art is that it lends itself to interesting and informal placement around the home. Vintage art works are there to be seen, moved around and enjoyed.
Methods of displaying art can often make as much of a statement as the pieces themselves. The way a painting is framed, hung and lit all contribute to the overall aesthetic and feeling it evokes. A single painting, whether large or small in size, can be hugely impactful and completely transform a room. There is sometimes a temptation to hang paintings high on a wall but positioning pieces at eye level can work well. When curating artworks, it is important to consider the proportion of the piece in relation to the room, so that when the picture is in place it has a connection with the space and the viewer. Leaving light and space around individual special pieces allows them to be a focal point, creates balance and grounds the interior.
Art can also be grouped together to form a gallery wall in order to add visual interest to a room. While historic in nature, the gallery wall complements both traditional and contemporary spaces. Whilst there are many different approaches, the most important thing to remember when curating a wall of art is that the display should look like it has evolved over time, combining different artistic mediums, frame styles and sizes for an organic, collected look. Placing a favourite or stand out piece first, and building around it can be a good way to start, keeping the central picture at eye level. Constraining the colour palette can help to unify a collection and create cohesion. Pieces need not match or belong to the same aesthetic, style or genre, but come together beautifully when arranged within a limited palette. Overall, there is no wrong way as it’s about evoking a feeling through pieces which elicit memories and personal connection, a visual reminder of homes, people and places.
For a more informal approach than traditional hanging, paintings also look effective placed on the floor, on top of a sideboard, or propped casually on a shelf or mantelpiece. Leaning pieces of art allows them to be moved easily around the home and creates a simple, laid-back aesthetic that feels effortlessly elegant.
The versatility of art means that it can be enjoyed in every room, being equally at home in main living areas as a hallway or landing. Displaying art work in unexpected places can anchor a space and bring interiors to life. Framed or unframed, canvases or boards, the possibilities are endless.
There are so many things to love about vintage and antique art – its form, tones, texture and the story it tells. It has already lived a life somewhere and there are often clues to the story through patination, old repairs and markings. Vintage art infuses a home with character through its lived-in patina and can connect us with precious memories. It can also resolve a space, acting as a decorative focal point and help us feel grounded.
Whether you live in a contemporary or traditional home, art helps to personalise a space. Buying vintage art is a wonderful way to reduce waste by reusing and repurposing existing resources and pieces don’t have to be rare or expensive. Whatever your budget, scour second hand shops, markets and small businesses to find original pieces as this is what makes a home feel uniquely you.
When we include pieces we love within our home, we create opportunities to enhance both the look and feel of our spaces. Take time to build collections slowly, choosing pieces which resonate and have a strong visual and emotional connection, in order to enrich your surroundings and bring joy and beauty to your home.
Explore our art gallery board on Pinterest for further inspiration or view our online collection of vintage and antique art. We offer bespoke sourcing and can also advise on colour palettes, pairings and framing.
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Autumn at Home
The shifting seasons often prompt an urge to refresh our homes and prepare for the months ahead. As temperatures cool and nature transitions, autumn invites us to create spaces inside to nourish and comfort. A few considered details can help to embrace the new season and appreciate the enduring comfort of home.
Autumn carries with it connotations of warmth and thoughts of hunkering down. Layering our homes with soft, comforting throws, cushions and rugs adds warmth and is a good way to introduce colour and texture into a room. Materials such as wool, velvet and thick linens add an autumnal layer of warmth and can make a space feel instantly cosier and restful. With longevity in mind, gather considered pieces that compliment your home and express a subtle shift in season.
Endlessly useful across the home, baskets are one of the most versatile accessories to incorporate all year round. Perfect for storing extra throws, blankets or logs during the colder months, baskets also add natural texture and act as decorative pieces in their own right.
The onset of a new season is a wonderful time to bring nature inside. Nature is always inspiring, and autumn provides an abundance of plants, fruit and vegetables to add seasonal colour and texture. Bowls of natural finds such as gourds, acorns and pinecones instantly add an autumnal touch and connect us to the outdoors. Reconnect with nature on walks and forage for foliage and branches to enjoy inside. Display in simple vessels or create a handmade wreath to showcase autumn’s beauty at home.
On warmer days, there is still the chance to enjoy meals outside at home, surrounded by nature in all its beauty. Made all the more inviting by chairs laden with blankets and a fire pit of crackling logs, our outside spaces can be embraced in autumn too.
The simple act of lighting a candle can brighten the mood and enhance the ambience of your home during the darker months. Clusters of candles in a mix of sizes, simple tealights or lanterns in favourite spaces within the home set the scene for darker days and long cosy nights indoors.
A simple yet inviting table setting is another good way to embrace the season. Lay the table with autumn in mind, incorporating natural decorative touches and candles alongside simple crockery, linens and placemats. Use seasonal foraged finds from your garden or surrounding landscape to dress your table. Gather recipe books to plan nourishing seasonal dishes such as soups and stews to see you through the season.
As we marvel at the golden autumnal canvas outside our homes, autumn invites us to lean into the new season inside. Misty mornings and crackling fires set the tone for shorter days and cosy candlelit evenings. For more autumn inspiration explore our seasonal folder on Pinterest.
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