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‘I understood that I’d need to tie the spaces together enough for them to feel harmonious, but I also wanted them to have their own character’
‘A minibreak might not only provide a holiday, but also spark ideas. In essence, it’s all research’
‘The preparation doesn’t happen by magic. Rope in a teenager to help, then focus on partying’
Painted tiles, rustic textures, lots of greenery — but, above all, you need a sense of languid nonchalance
‘Laying gravel instead of paving would provide space for your car and still allow plants to grow’
‘I like the idea of taking an off-the peg standard or vintage piece of furniture and giving it a DIY facelift’
There are plenty of wonderful things in small galleries or websites — just avoid cheap reproductions
‘I use inexpensive containers to hold my tulips: I always like a simple glass cylinder, and I adore a bucket’
Time to ditch the bifold doors: ‘I see castellations, I see finials’
‘When I think of country comfort, I think of squidgy sofas, ottomans the size of small cars and plenty of soft lighting’
Three-dimensional art can range from a piece of rock on the mantelpiece to a pair of satyr’s hips on a plinth
In spring, a young man’s fancy turns to garden furniture
There’s nowhere better to look for ideas than in the rich and magical settings of movies
Greek gods in your swimming pool; classical figures flanking your fireplace . . . when it comes to murals, your imagination can run wild
Must we always be in such a hurry to turn atmospheric outbuildings into spas, offices and studies?
This overlooked essential is something we use daily, so why not make it as nice as possible?
You don’t need a total refit: small changes, new paint and accessories can create a room that feels totally different
‘The peacock eventually flew the nest; our taxidermy period, I’m happy to say, was shortlived’
‘I enjoy a contrast between table and chair — a difference in style, age, colour, material, or all four’
‘There is something quite delicious about sweeping Christmas away. Winter, however, is not going anywhere’
Festive tableware does not need to be stamped with snowmen to count as Christmassy
Where to shop for unusual objects while supporting small businesses and the environment
‘Is there a sound that gets one more in the mood for a party than ice cubes clinking?’
‘Sometimes a floor lamp needs to be more than just a service provider. Hell, sometimes it needs to be the star of the show’
‘Settling into a drink after a long day is a pleasure that should be taken seriously. It requires ceremony’
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