HISTORY IN THE MAKING

Subtle mid-century styling allows the original features to shine in this Suffolk Tudor gem

Bursting with original features, it’s easy to see why this 16th-century yeoman’s house in Suffolk held such appeal for interior designer Mel Massey and her husband, Simon. ‘I can’t put my finger on it,’ recalls Mel, ‘but when we viewed it, it had a wonderful vibe and the potential to be a very happy home.’ The couple were looking in Suffolk for a rural retreat that offered easy access to the sea yet wasn’t too far from London. ‘The house is more remote than we’d been looking for, however,’ says Mel. ‘The only sounds here are owls, tractors and cows.’ Having been restored from an almost derelict state by the previous owner, Mel, Simon and their two boys, Henry and Freddie, have been able to benefit from the hard work and dedication that has gone into salvaging this historic building. ‘The seller had worked in collaboration with English Heritage, and I think part of the reason he sold it to us is that he knew we would continue to love it and preserve its past,’ says Mel. ‘The interior was essentially a blank canvas, and my mission was to create a luxurious yet homely space, while embracing its 16th-century legacy.’ Updating the kitchen was a priority for Mel, with the help of a local craftsman. The style of the new bespoke units suits the age of the property. ‘I wanted something simple that didn’t detract from the beautiful features in the room.’ When it came to decorating the rest of the house, Mel had to ensure her choices, such as for paint colours, fell within English Heritage’s guidelines, while a specialist limestone render has been used to fill external cracks. ‘My style is to mix and match modern and vintage pieces of furniture, rather than buying everything new,’ says Mel. Updating a property with such historic importance in the short space of just six weeks was a rewarding yet challenging undertaking for the couple. ‘I like to think we’ve created a warm and homely environment for our family and guests to enjoy,’ Mel says, ‘while allowing the original charm of the property to shine through.’

DINING ROOM With its mix of vintage and modern pieces, this space is ideal for large gatherings. Dulwich table, £2,279, Matthew Hilton for Case at Olson + Baker. Nkuku wicker pendants, £140 each, Amara. Oval mirrors, £95 each, Mink Interiors

SITTING ROOM Mel chose a mustard sofa to balance out the sense of old and new. Rosie velvet sofa, £1,745, Rose & Grey. Similar leather sofa, £1,000, Chesterfield Sofas. Louis De Poortere Heriz rug, from £386, Woven

KITCHEN The Rangemaster cooker highlights the original brick fireplace. Find similar vintage chairs on ebay. Interior design by Mel Massey

BATHROOM Neutral tiles, with a vibrant blind, suit this space in the newer extension. Blind in Carnival in Coral, £130m, Christopher Farr at Fabrics & Papers

BEDROOM Mel was inspired by French interiors when she created this scheme. Velvet pendant light, £60; Glorious velvet cushions, £32 each, all Rockett St George. Pebble velvet quilt, £195, Graham and Green

MASTER BEDROOM Rich textures ensure a cosy feel. Curtains in Capuchins, £66m, Sanderson at Style Library. Koldby cow hide rug, £179, Ikea

MASTER BEDROOM Elegant modern pieces of furniture don’t detract from the character of the house. Lana bed, £1,299, West Elm. Emerald lamps, £195 each, French Bedroom Company. Brook Farm is available to rent at and-relax.net