A host of mixed contemporary touches with mellow shades have revived this 16th-century farm buildingThis home's dreamy colour palette is instantly soothing

From the moment you step into Gem and Thom's three-bedroom Grade II-listed 16th-century former farm building on the Norfolk/Suffolk border, it feels instantly welcoming. This is, in part, thanks to their chosen colour palette of soothing yellows, greens, and neutrals that flow effortlessly throughout their home.

Here, Gem takes us on a guided tour, explaining their style, how they modernised their farmhouse, and which elements they love most.

'We've created a welcoming living space'

'I find much of my inspiration on Instagram, but also like to soak up visual notes everywhere I go.'

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‘Our sofa in two warm, neutral complementary fabrics creates a modern twist on a traditional look, while tactile woven coir rugs add texture.'

'We wanted to respect the history of the old farm building, but also inject our own personalities.'

'A soft-green paint colour sets the utility corner apart'

‘We chose this apple-green shade for the small utility area to create a visual nod to the rustic origins of the Grade-II listed 16th-century building, which had once been a cider factory.'

'The colour also provides a visual contrast to the yellow and terracotta tones of the open-plan space, giving the practical zone its own personality. A Shaker-style cupboard, panelling and peg rail bring a traditional feel, while the rustic storage baskets add warmth and texture.'

'Source vintage pottery with a rustic vibe'

‘We are huge fans of open shelving and love to display our collection of vintage chopping boards and ceramics.'

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'Make the kitchen a central hub'

‘Thom loves to spend hours in the kitchen, so we needed a sociable living-cooking space. We opted for Shaker kitchen units and a warm earthy cream-yellow scheme to complement the vintage natural-wood furniture.'

'The natural terracotta brick flooring was an important part of our vision, and we have used it throughout the project. We wanted the cook space to be a continuation of the living area, so we used the same flooring and colour palette.'

'Choose subtle and restful co-ordinating colours'

‘Layering different shades of the same colour brings depth and warmth to a scheme without over-complicating things – perfect for a tranquil bedroom.'

'I like to source bedroom lighting that is quietly functional but visually strong; here, in the third bedroom, we opted for neatly shaped wall lights in a warm metallic finish.'

'Go for a luxurious roll-top bath'

‘Each bedroom has its own en suite, and this bathroom, with its large roll-top bath, was designed with me in mind. Whenever I get the chance, I am in the bath here with a glass of wine and a book. The lighting in this room is divine – it evokes candlelight, even without the candles.'

'Mix classic design with mellow tones'

‘We opted for a striking chequerboard tile pattern to link with the theme in other rooms and create continuity throughout the property.'

'Aim to create cohesion with defined style'

‘The palette continues into this bedroom, where I have used warm neutral shades of caramel and sand to create a soft and gentle aesthetic. A statement headboard is a welcoming gesture that gives luxury-hotel vibes in an instant.'

'Deep khaki is earthy and sophisticated'

‘For this en suite, square tiles in an unusual dark-khaki shade finished with white grouting nicely echo the chequerboard theme in the adjoining bedroom, and beautifully complement the natural terracotta stone floor tiles. The rattan mirror is a vintage find.’

To stay at the property, visit @restaries

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This article first appeared in Ideal Home, June 2026 issue. Subscribe and save here.