NORFOLK COTTAGE
Roaring fires, flickering flames and plenty of rich colour give this cottage a festive glow
Roaring fires, Richly coloured blankets and flickering flames ensure a cosy christmas at claire and ed croft’s norfolk cottage
When
you run your own business, preparing for your family’s festive celebrations can be a whirl of frenzied activity in the final few days, especially when you add two December babies into the mix. ‘as well as all the christmas trade shows and events we have to organise for our luxury bath and candle company abahna, December is our children’s birthdays,’ says claire croft. ‘even though there are two years between them, Iris and olly were both born just days before christmas, so this time of year is extra special. We love to decorate the house for the celebrations, even if work deadlines mean it has to be done super fast!’
time may be limited, but style is one thing that won’t be compromised in the croft household. claire, in her seemingly effortless way, makes sure that all the presents are wrapped, the table is set, fires are laid, and dozens of candles are nestled among an abundance of decorations and foraged foliage.
along with all her festive flourishes, claire’s year-round style makes this Norfolk home a unique but unpretentious haven. off-whites and warm greys create a contemporary and unified backdrop for eclectic displays of antiques and artwork, collections and curios. ‘claire is a bit of a magpie,’ says her husband ed. ‘She’s always hunting round antiques markets, fairs and junk shops. She has a really good eye.’
although now their permanent home, the cottage used to be an escape for the crofts. ‘When ed and I were living in london, we used to visit regularly as it was my parents’ holiday home,’ says claire. ‘they bought it in the Seventies