'I personalised my home in just three months'

Kerry Davison has used minimalist neutrals in a maximalist way, pulling together tactile materials and vintage finds to put her own stamp on every room in record time

-  Karen Wilson

When Kerry Davison and her family outgrew their three-bedroom starter home, she decorated the whole house hoping it would make her fall back in love with it. But it was still too small,' recalls Kerry. It was fine when it was just me, my daughter, Lyla, and one dog; but then I met my husband, Amin, we had our daughter, Heidi, and three more dogs came along.'

Wanting to be near Kerry's parents, the couple started house-hunting around Gateshead and Newcastle. She didn't initially like the idea of buying her next property from a big developer. But after discovering a new development in Callerton, Newcastle, Kerry had a complete change of heart.

SPACIOUS LIVING

On their wish list was a utility room, garage and four bedrooms, plus a study for teacher Amin. After viewing a few renovated older properties, they came across Miller Homes' Stephenson Meadows development. When I viewed the Oakwood show home, I was blown away by how much space there was,' says Kerry. The idea of moving into a detached house that had been freshly painted and had new flooring was really appealing. 'I didn't want to worry about re-wiring and replacing skirting boards,' says Kerry. 'I just wanted to get on with the décor.'

COME ON IN....

WE ARE Kerry Davison, 37, a stay-at-home parent (@houseofchi). I live with my husband, Amin, 36, a teacher and musician, our children, Lyla, 11, and Heidi, two, plus chihuahuas Tallulah, Teddy, Trixie and Tilly.

OUR HOME IS A four-bedroom detached new-build by Miller Homes in Callerton, Newcastle.

MY BEST BARGAIN The bamboo cabinet in the living room. It was £20 from a house clearance, and I saw a similar one online for £800.