DECK THE HALLS

Interior designer Jack Kinsey creates a warm festive welcome at his converted chapel with his signature style and a flourish of traditional charm

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Ivy resonates heavily with Jack Kinsey and partner Alex Walters, and not just at Christmas.

‘When we bought this old chapel, it was derelict - the roof literally had ivy growing through it,’ explains Jack. ‘I was on a job and had some spare time to do a bit of house hunting,’ he says. ‘The chapel had been listed on Rightmove for 30 minutes, and I knew I wanted it.’ So, after a frantic call to the agent, an offer was put forward and accepted. Jack then returned home to explain all to Alex. Fortunately, he loved it and was on board.

Now ivy adorns the staircase, creating an evergreen statement not just for Christmas, but as a year-round fixture. That won't be a surprise to anyone who followed Jack’s journey as a contestant on the 2023 series of BBC’s Interior Design Masters, or his 800k Instagram followers, who know and love his flamboyant style. He can transform any bland space into one that oozes magical charm and historic exuberance. Hence the appeal of the chapel.