Having dreamt of living in the countryside for many years, Greg and Karen Bracken finally bit the bullet in 2015, making the decision to leave London. ‘Originally our search focused on Kent and Sussex,’ says Karen. ‘It was only when my brother moved to north Essex that we realised just how beautiful the area is. As soon as we viewed this Tudor house, built in 1483 – with its ancient exposed beams, ogee door frames and priest hole – we knew we’d found our home.’
The couple had been warned that the original kitchen was disproportionately small compared with the size of the house. Undeterred, they added an extension to their renovating to-do list and proceeded with the purchase. Extensions on listed properties are never straightforward but, by working with the local listed building department, Greg and Karen were able to achieve the generous addition they were after.
Denne historien er fra June 2020-utgaven av Country Homes & Interiors.
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Denne historien er fra June 2020-utgaven av Country Homes & Interiors.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
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
