ON THE WATERFRONT

Time stands still in this lakeside New Hampshire home complete with porch swing and a welcoming decor that puts you instantly at ease

- WORDS JULIET BENNING

GREAT ROOM The reclaimed granite around the fireplace was sourced locally. The rich colours for the cushions were prompted by the rug. Bespoke rug designed by Nina Farmer, Steven King Decorative Carpets. Leather chair, Pierre Chapo. Custom sofa, Nina Farmer. Wall sconces, Jamb. Bogart coffee table, Shoppe Amber Interiors

At the edge of Squam Lake, a pontoon and floating diving platform both sit idle, beckoning with the promise of refreshment on a hot summer's day. For Nina Farmer's clients, and the new owners of the land, a cooling dip has always proved irresistible. 'Even when we had site meetings, they would swim in the lake before or after,' Nina says. 'They are huge swimmers, hikers and also big readers,' she adds.

SNUG Nina used a textural paper on the walls in this pine-clad room, which is reminiscent of a ship's cabin. 'The wallcovering reminds me of tobacco leaves,' she says. Sofa, Dmitriy & Co. Chair, Nickey Kehoe. Cocktail table, Guillerme et Chambron. Vintage mid-century Swedish pendant by Erik Höglund. The rug is Moroccan