SHOP RECLAIMED

lots of built-in storage. A house can never have too much of this! I used the space under the eaves, created a niche in the entrance hall wall for coats and a box seat for shoes, and built cupboards in every alcove. We also added sliding pocket doors between the sitting area and snug, which can be turned into a quiet reading room, family TV room or children’s playroom. The doors are great space savers.

As a distinctive feature, I designed a serving hatch-style window between the old dining room and the kitchen so that light shines through the ground floor from front to back. It also creates a sight line to the garden from the front door.

‘WE AGREED TO GO FOR STATEMENT WALL COLOURS INSTEAD OF EXPENSIVE WALLPAPERS’

Adding character

We don’t like to waste anything, so we agreed to renovate the house using as many reclaimed materials as possible. This included all the pine floorboards, sink units, taps and radiators, as well as a reclaimed brick patio. We hate the thought of just adding to the evergrowing amount of stuff in the world. By shopping around and finding new

ON TAP

‘This scheme is a mix of old and new. I fitted the Lusso sink to an antique drawer unit and added brass taps for an eclectic style’

WASH AND GO

‘Randomly arranged tiles from Emery & Cie bring a splash of colourful fun to this room’

Ask yourself if you really need the item – will it have a use and a place within your home? Is it something that you’re likely to tire of before too long? If you’re looking for a piece to fit a specific area, then you’ll need to measure in advance – and always go shopping armed with a measuring tape, too. Don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions, whether about the era, colours, shape or condition and previous life of the item. If you’re buying online, factor in any shipping and delivery costs. What you thought was a bargain might not be such a steal once these prices are added on.

Find more clever ideas to style up your home by going to ‘For the guest room, I made the lampshade and picture frame to tie in with the Nina Campbell cushion. The drawers from Swoon add a retro element’