Country Homes & Interiors

Published by TI Media Limited Relaxed living…comfortable style Country Homes & Interiors is the magazine that celebrates the best of modern country decorating style. Inspired by the spirit of today's relaxed living, you'll find page upon page of gorgeous real homes, plus a fresh take on country decorating.

Editor’s letter

Contributors

Country Homes & Interiors

FLEET-FOOTED FEASTING • July beckons al fresco dining of all kinds – in all places. Whether you’re headed for the hills or the coast, portability is key to keeping things casual yet chic. Take inspiration from The White Company – a foldable table is instantly transformed when dressed with a crisp-white cloth. Layer on the luxuries with crockery, cutlery, candles and wildly beautiful floral displays.

Sarah Le Breton • This Devon-based weaver draws on traditional techniques to produce contemporary designs spanning backpacks, lampshades and more

Bloom rooms • High on the wish lists of budding florists and gardeners, the trend for ‘flower rooms’ is blossoming. While dedicating a whole room is a luxury, setting aside space for cutting and arranging blooms is within reach of most homes. A folding table (by a sink) offers flexibility, while wall hooks are handy for baskets, trays and trugs. Make a feature of pretty vases and pots on open shelves.

LIGHT-BULB MOMENTS • Despite the need for effective illumination, kitchens are moving beyond the tyranny of one ‘big light’ and harsh spots. Multiple light sources, from wall-mounted options to table lamps, allow us to heighten or lower the brightness, and create pools of illumination, for both practicality and ambience. Take a look at your kitchen: can you find room for another light? See more of this house, from page 47.

COUNTRY CHARM • A sensitive refurbishment has seen a once ramshackle dwelling opened up, enlarged and modernised, all the while enhancing its intrinsic cottage style

SERENE SCENE • Try Charlotte’s calm, country style by layering natural greens with putty pinks

A HOUSE FOR ALL SEASONS • Andrea and John Watson have adapted their period farmhouse to make the most of the beautiful surroundings and to enjoy outdoor living, whatever the weather

SUMMER BREEZE • With a palette of warm neutrals, Andrea has created an airy country scheme

DUTCH COURAGE • Sympathetically restored to honour its past, Belinda Benton’s Dutch-style home in Deal combines cocooning colours, whimsical weaves and old-time charm

COLOUR THERAPY • Belinda’s cottage chimes with patterned textiles and a rich, warm palette

FAMILY MATTERS • When her daughter bought a farmhouse, Celia Freeman turned a derelict barn on the site into an inviting bolthole where multiple generations can relax and reconnect

COUNTRY LUXE • Recreate Celia’s soothing scheme with duck-egg blues and accents of pink

FOR RURAL DWELLERS & DREAMERS

PAPER CUTTINGS • To make giant paper flowers, layer 10 sheets of tissue paper and fold them at the shortest end in an accordion style. Fold in half and wrap wire around the middle to hold in place. Cut a curve at the unwired ends to make the petal shapes, then open out each layer until the flower starts to form. Make a smaller flower to use as the centre of the larger flower, using wire to attach it to the middle.

Summer’s palette • The art of al fresco living? Pack a canvas and paints alongside sandwiches and cakes, and bring a touch of creativity to picnics and outdoor parties. Here’s a portrait of the perfect summer day…

MEET US OUTSIDE • It’s finally time to throw open the doors and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Here are the hottest ways to relax and entertain in your garden this season

FIVE FOUNDATIONS OF GARDEN SHADING • Whether a permanent fixture...