Prints Charming

Using modern and traditional textiles and wallcoverings, Boo Craig-Wood has stamped colour and character onto a previously dated and dilapidated property.

- Felicity Hayles

When Boo Craig-Wood discovered a Victorian terraced house in a small market town, she knew that it would be the perfect place to downsize to, along with children Bob, 15, and Isla, 13, plus Irish terriers Bridget and mary. ‘I grew up in the country, but living in a small town with shops nearby has its advantages,’ says Boo, an interior designer and homewares shop owner. ‘this house inspired me the moment I saw it and despite its dilapidated appearance, I knew I could create a new home for the three of us. As a single mother, I needed to make life easier and live close to schools, friends and work.’

Although the bones of the building were sound, the decor was very dated and the house needed renovating. ‘the hall and sitting room, carpeted in green shagpile, led into a small, gloomy kitchen and downstairs bathroom,’ recalls Boo. reinstating the original open fireplace, and adding a velvet sofa and antique finds, brought depth and character to the sitting room.