it's a cracker

Stylist Marianne Cotterill designed a home full of soul that packs a sensational seasonal punch

- Kara O’Reilly

STAIRCASE

‘I brought tons and tons of wedding decorations back from India,’ says Marianne. ‘They’re joyous and colourful and make me want to party.’ The landing (left) has room for a sofa.

Similar decorations; foil Polish nativity churches, all Raj Tent Club. Portrait, Portobello Market. Animal paintings, Earl Swanigan. Walls in Stiffkey Blue, Farrow & Ball. Wallpaper panel (left), Florence Broadhurst

LIVING ROOM

‘I like to do something different for the tree,’ says Marianne. ‘These are twigs I painted with a lametta curtain draped over them.’

Chair, Sonia Rykiel at Roche Bobois. Rug, Deirdre Dyson. For a lametta curtain, try Party Pieces

marianne Cotterill certainly doesn’t do things by halves. The renowned creative director and Livingetc favourite has been responsible for some of the most memorable shoots you’ll have spotted in these pages over the years and her flamboyant approach naturally spills over into her own home. The spectacular double-fronted pile is a showcase of Marianne’s magpie collector’s eye. Her stylist’s touch is evident throughout – and has resulted in an impactful mix of vintage and modern, flea-market finds and designer items that all hang together and, thanks to its very eclecticism, has stood the test of time. ‘I like beautiful things and they can be 5p or £500,’ she says. ‘I don’t care if something is new or old, chipped or perfect, as long as I like it and it all works together.’