The leaves on the hornbeam are the first to turn this year, exposed to the cold easterly wind by the area of chestnut and birch we coppiced last winter. In seeing the trees readying themselves for the winds of winter allows a short-lived fit of panic to run through me, wondering if we’re ready too. Of course, in central heated homes and with a stack of firewood ready for our wood burner, we are. Our sophisticated modern lives mean winter is not a period of survival but a period of festivity and tradition. Perhaps because of this, we’ve somewhat forgotten what we’re celebrating. I adore Christmas – yes, I know this feels early but trust me it’s coming and the more we plan for it the better decisions we can make. For its magic is now a bit tarnished by its modern footprint and how much waste it can cause.
This story is from the November 2020 edition of Homes & Gardens.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2020 edition of Homes & Gardens.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
A love letter to...
Cookery writer Skye McAlpine explains why Venice serves up a daily slice of la dolce vita
A great escape
The whimsical La Fantaisie hotel in Paris is a restful retreat from the city's hubbub
MERRY & BRIGHT
This Edwardian home feels joyful all year round and it is all down to the bold colours, pretty patterns and delightful decorative details
A WINTER'S TALE
Surrounded by snow-covered mountains, this chic chalet is designed to keep the cold at bay and everyone inside warm and cosy
ALL IS CALM
Christmas is a relaxed affair in this New England home, which is a study in laid-back elegance
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
The home of Designers Guild's Amanda Back is spectacular at Christmas with festive flourishes enhancing the beauty of the former vicarage
DESIGN IDEAS - Fine dining
Dining areas should have a special ambience, whether for cosy lunches or elegant dinner parties
DESIGN RULES - Social spaces
Martin Hulbert and Jay Grierson of Martin Hulbert Design on inviting rooms for entertaining
THE JOY OF ENTERTAINING
For H&G columnist Joy Moyler, this is the most wonderful time of the year - she tells us how she celebrates and hosts
WILD PROSPECTS
Adam Hunt of Urquhart & Hunt discusses how to create nature-friendly garden where wildlife can thrive