HOME AT LAST

Having often walked past their dream property over the years, Rich and Emma Proud finally became its owners and turned it into a comfortable home for three generations of their family

- ALEXANDRA PRATT

DINING ROOM This formal space reflects the pared-back design of the Georgian-era house. Try Gubi Epic dining table in Steel, Twentytwentyone. Pebble pendant, Original BTC. Interior design, Nicola O’Mara

The timing was perfect,' says Rich Proud.

I saw the flyer and said, "That's our house!" The stone-built property, tucked down a narrow lane in Padstow, Cornwall, is now home to Rich and his wife, Emma, and a regular destination for their two grown-up children, Will and Eleanor, and new grandchild. A detached Georgian house, it has the eternal appeal of its era, plus a slice of sea views and even a vista over the neighbouring deer park.

For many years, Emma and Rich spent family holidays in a small cottage in the town and, while exploring, often walked past this house. It had size, location, parking-a rarity here and beautiful views, recalls Rich. So, when they sold their business and the house came on the market, they had to buy it. 'It was a surreal moment - when you work hard for a dream and then you get it!'

The couple turned to local interior designer Nicola O'Mara to help them personalise their new home. "The minute I met her, I knew she was the designer for us,' says Rich. In their brief to Nicola, Rich and Emma wanted to acknowledge the property's location, without crossing into an overly seaside look. The style had to respect the heritage of the house and its coastal setting,' says Rich.

The five-month project focused on design and décor, rather than any major structural issues, although some key areas were substantially changed. One of these was the deck, which sits on top of the large garage. Despite the wonderful views across the deer park, metal railings and differing levels meant it wasn't reaching its potential.