‘Vintage buys saved MY BUDGET'

Suzie’s easy-going mix of old and new helped stretch her budget as she put together eclectic pieces for her lively family home

- ANNABELLE GRUNDY

James and I bought this house when our first child, Evie, was just a baby. It’s evolved since then, as our family has grown up,’ says Suzie. ‘Back then, we were looking to move out of London, but still wanted to be somewhere with good transport links to the city. This was an old property with a lovely garden and masses of character and potential. The interior had been well cared for, but it was all very dated and not to my taste.

The house had a disjointed layout, with a separate lounge, family room and dining room. The kitchen was cramped and dingy, and had tired cream units and a lino floor. I was excited to start renovating, and had plenty of ideas, but within six weeks of moving in, we found ourselves leaving again when James’ work took the three of us abroad for 18 months.

First stage