LEAP OF FAITH

When Hayley and Alex Cobbett moved to the country, they chose a cottage that was in need of a top-to-toe transformation

- KAREN DARLOW

HOME TRUTHS

THE PROPERTY

Detached 17th-century cottage, with later additions

LOCATION Dorset

ROOMS Sitting room, snug, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, five bedrooms (one en suite), two bathrooms

PURCHASED 2009

PREVIOUS PROPERTY 'We were in London before our move to the country,' says Hayley.

GARDEN SEATING

"We made the furniture ourselves from pallets and Tupholstered the seat cushions,' says Hayley. Summerhouse painted in a similar colour to Pointing, £70 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

Alex and Hayley Cobbett often talked about moving to the country before they decided the time was right to make their dreams a reality. We'd both spent many years living and working in cities,' explains Hayley. The couple focused their property search in Dorset. 'Alex grew up there and his family are nearby, so he knew the area well,' says Hayley. They eventually came across a suitable property and had their offer accepted, however, Hayley admits that she felt less than enthusiastic. 'I can't say I fell in love with it, but I could see its potential and Alex knew the location,' she says.

Despite Hayley's reservations, the property ticked a great many boxes. With forest walks from the doorstep and beaches only a short drive away, the location couldn't be bettered. The cottage is set back from a country road where 'rush hour' means two tractors, so it's blissfully peaceful, too. Inside the couple also agreed they needed to reconfigure the layout, as well as lighten the rooms as much as possible.