Home inspiration: rural retreat

Stacked neatly underneath a custom-made oak bench seat, firewood becomes a dramatic design feature in the living room of this lovely country home, tucked away in the Victorian countryside. The wood-burning Nectre fireplace complements the relaxed rural vibe, while high-grade marine plywood lines the walls either side of the chimney breast, lending warmth to the black-and-white scheme.

Bevelled black subway tiles from Beaumont Tiles, teamed with midnight grout, bring a subdued sophistication to the stunning kitchen. The Ikea cabinetry, with ‘Lidingö’ drawer fronts and doors and a freestanding ‘Stenstorp’ island, fits the space and style perfectly. Pendants from Schots Home Emporium are teamed with cut-glass light globes found at Fat Shack Vintage.

Led by the sun and the cool climate, the open-plan living and dining space have been orientated towards the north-facing backyard. The winter sun floods through large steel-framed windows and washes over the polished concrete floors. The lovely old dining table was sourced from a local farming family and the mismatched chairs from vintage shops. The pendant is a replica Tuukka Halonen for Skandium ‘Pilke’ light from Matt Blatt.

Striking a balance between cosy and contemporary, the bedroom features a ‘Mandal’ bedhead from Ikea and Home Republic ‘Birch Forest’ bedlinen from Adairs. ‘Ranarp’ wall lamps from Ikea are a stylish, space-saving alternative to bedside lamps.

Though the palette is simple, the ensuite is rich in texture, with original tongue-and-groove ceilings above and grey porcelain tiles from Beaumont Tiles on the floor. Oak benchtops add warmth, and white bevelled subway tiles, also from Beaumont Tiles, deliver an on-trend aesthetic. The pendant light came from Matt Blatt.

This bedroom in the original part of the home features a vintage farmhouse wrought-iron bed. The ‘Alvine Kvist’ quilt cover set from Ikea and woodland-inspired accessories, including a fox print by Little Design Haus, add a dose of whimsy, making this a sweet space for children and adults alike. Wool carpet from Midland Floorworld lends warmth underfoot.

Tying in with the original part of the house, a new bathroom weaves together old and new. Subway tiles are a timeless addition and the claw-foot bath that came with the house has been painted black to give it new life.