Woodland retreat

Debbie and Dave Down have lovingly renovated their historic Norfolk cottage, giving it a fresh new look, while respecting its heritage

- JANET MCMEEKIN

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE The curved red-brick inglenook is a delightful focal point in this cosy space. The footstool, made by Debbie's company Rooms with a View, is covered in Abraham Moon's Burford wool in mustard. The rug is by Crucial Trading, made in Seagrass Herringbone with an Oakwood worn leather border; when naming the cottage, Debbie was inspired by the woodland just metres away from their newly renovated home; she believes the cottage was originally one-storey, with the red-brick part added later.

To accentuate the high ceilings and add to the feeling of timeless elegance, Debbie chose full-length curtains in a striking William Morris design that incorporates the grey and ochre tones in this scheme. Curtains in Bullerswood in stone/mustard, patterned window seat cushion in Indian Loop in charcoal/linen, both Morris & Co. Walls are painted in Shadow White by Farrow & Ball.

Industrial-style lighting from Industville was chosen for this open-plan space, where auction-found vintage carpenter's tools are displayed in the alcove. Reclaimed shelving and a cupboard, made from old scaffold boards, link beautifully with the original beams. The vintage French table came from Vintage Boathouse, while the much-loved bench was inherited from Debbie's grandmother. Flowers are from The Flower Hut.