Is it because it rains alot in the UK that designers seem to have a boatload of fun with colours when designing a home – to combat the gloominess of what’s going on outside? I don’t know what their deal is but they should keep it coming because I am in awe of their willingness to go all out in just about every room. Hats off to Studio Holland for bringing in all sorts of wonderful colours in this full renovation of a large family country house in Sussex.

Leanne Ford may have an obsession for white but even she can show restraint when renovating her own historical 120-year-old home in Pittsburgh. The wood paneled walls in the library are so moody and cozy and look SO much better stained than slathered in white paint. Such a beautiful home. Photos: Amy Neunsinger, Erin Kelly. Styling: Noel Knostman, Hilary Robertson.

Nothing was cute in the 90’s, and a home from that era would be lacking some architectural details that make a home special, among other things. Enter Lauren Elaine Interiors. She added in some picture frame paneling in the foyer, custom bookshelves with fluted pilasters in the dining room and many antiques and
vintage elements to make the home feel like it has been around a century. Photos: Aimée Mazzenga.

Leanne Ford – a die-hard fan of all things white. Something I am absolutely not but then when I see her projects I start to rethink my life’s choices. Her Church Lane project is one of those times where I think this is a really good approach especially if you have ‘a pig in need of lipstick’ type of renovation you need to do….just get 10 gallons of white paint, some marble remnants and some paper lanterns and you’re golden. Photos: Erin Ash Kelly; Styling: Hilary Robertson.

A contemporary new build in a quaint Victorian town, the house required a garden that would both suit the house and settle in in to its country setting. Set on a 1/4 acre block, the brief was to make the small garden appear larger and more secluded than it was. The result was achieved through the use of a number of techniques to trick the eye. A winding path through a tall perennial border that runs the length of the house gives the block instant depth, as well as privacy from the road. Raised mounds throughout the border add height and interest. A small opening in the border towards the kitchen creates a secluded spot to entertain or sit around a fire. To the rear of the house, a veggie patch ensures a productive food garden, while an outdoor bath hidden from view provides a delightful sanctuary to relax and take it all in. Drawing on inspiration from meadows, the garden bursts with colour and life throughout Spring and Summer. In Autumn it transitions to a more dusty colour scheme, that then gives way to the winter structure of frost-covered grasses and seed heads.
I could not love this meadow-inspired style of landscaping more. Designed by Tim Pilgrim.