This Victorian lodge, with 1950s additions in Surrey, features a hall, living room, kitchen-diner, study, cloakroom, two bedrooms and a bathroom. Once part of a 19th-century estate, the building had been extended during the 1950s to include a Tudor-style upper story, into which, unusually, was placed the front door. However, the house’s location, boasting splendid views over the Surrey countryside, was irresistable.
A Victorian lodge with a Tudor-style extension
Neutral living room with cast iron fireplace
Period charm has been restored to the living room with the addition of a cast-iron fireplace, dating back to the 19th century. Pale creams and beige tones keep the space feeling light and airy. Fresh lavender woven into a candle wreath completes the country look and neatly mirrors the pale purple of the knitted woollen scatter cushions.
Similar fireplace
Pendragon Fireplaces
Wall mirror and wall hangings
Dunelm Mill
Georgian style kitchen with crystal chandelier
This Georgian-style kitchen is furnished with bespoke hand-painted cabinets and a five-arm chandelier. But look more closely and you'll find plenty of quirky modern touches, including the teacup lamp and the letter-printed wall tiles above the cooker. The dark wood floor is practical in a kitchen and is a smarter take on the country look.
Cabinetry
Louisa Graham Kitchens
Neutral kitchen with granite worktops
Pale granite worktops, a Belfast sink and traditional features enhance the rustic vibe of this neutral kitchen. The books have been positioned away from food and water splashes, but close enough to grab easily so you can check recipe details when cooking. Metallic knobs on the cupboard doors add a subtle contemporary edge to the country scheme.
Chandelier
BHS
Country dining room with contemporary table and chairs
Just because you live in a country house doesn't mean you have to go for an all-over country theme in your decorating. Here, a contemporary dining table and chair set adds a touch of glamour to the Georgian-inspired dining room. The muted gingham curtains would sit pretty in a modern or rustic scheme.
Table
Bentalls
Neutral bedroom with woollen and printed scatter cushions
A soothing palette of stone, grey and beige adorns this cosy bedroom. Limiting the colour palette to similar hues on walls, furniture and bedding is a visual trick that can make the room appear larger. Subtle personal touches, like the cushions and plaque create a lived-in feel. In a neutral room, layering up different textures and patterns - such as the wool and cotton prints shown here - will add interest to your scheme.
Paint
Elephant's Breath at Farrow & Ball
Duvet cover
Helena Springfield
Purple guest bedroom with multicoloured throw
The purple colour scheme and accessories add a feminine edge to this quirky guest bedroom. A confident use of bold block colour offset by flashes of pattern give this space a sophisticated look that reflects the feel of a weekend away. Make sure you include plenty of home-from-home comforts in a guest bedroom, including cosy throws and bedside lamps.
Pale grey bathroom with roll top bath
This curved roll-top bath is an elegant feature, whilst built-in shelves take up little space in a small bathroom. If space is limited use the old trick of incoporating an oversized mirror into your scheme - this will help to bounce light around the room, creating the illusion of more space. A free-standing tap will keep the look clean and uncluttered.
