Hall
A console table provides a festive welcome decorated with baubles and natural foliage. Baubles, Cox & Cox. Console table, Graham and Green. Lamp, Pooky
SOMERSET BARN
Dining area A new skylight has transformed the space, filling the room with natural light. Pendant lights, Holloways of Ludlow
Exterior
The converted barn acquired a new porch, larger windows and a Juliet balcony. Door and window frames in Studio Green, Farrow & BallAT HOME WITH
Owners Maria Southwood, a GP, and her husband John, a City financier, and their five children, Felix, nine, Ellie, eight, Sofia, five, Anna, three, and Louisa, 18 months.
House A converted cattle barn in Somerset dating back to the 1800s, with six bedrooms and a separate guest cottage, completed in 2019.
For most parents, Christmas shopping is a highly secretive affair – even more so when you have five children to conceal presents from. ‘I am blessed with a lock-up cupboard under the stairs,’ says Maria Southwood, although hanging stockings from the bannisters above must only increase the anticipation about what’s hidden inside.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Sowing the seeds for a life of abundance
The perpetual rhythm of planting, tending and harvesting brings a feeling of hope and fulfilment to Diana Yates, and it extends beyond her Greenfields garden to all of her life
Cabin fever
Offering cosy, doll's house-sized country retreats, cabins combine modern comforts with an immersive experience of nature
'Building boats has become my passion'
Wooden boat builder, Obioma Oji
Cover-up job
Durable and decorative, cladding is a brilliant way to protect your home's exterior without compromising its aesthetics
Flights of fancy
Replace or refurbish your staircase and you'll elevate the appearance of your home at every level. Here are the steps to take...
TRUE BLUE
A firm favourite for decorating, blue is one of the most restful, mindful shades in the colour spectrum. Stylist and interiors expert Sara Bird shares how to use it in your country home
COUNTER INTELLIGENCE
Practical and inspiring ideas for selecting the best kitchen worktop for your space
A GARDEN GLOW-UP
As late summer days begin to shorten, extend your time outdoors with a blend of practical and decorative lighting
TRÈS BELLE
Sharon and Tony Dallas have turned their dilapidated Grade II-listed house in Essex into an enchanting home with a considered colour palette and French treasures galore
HOME AT LAST
Having often walked past their dream property over the years, Rich and Emma Proud finally became its owners and turned it into a comfortable home for three generations of their family