Vriskaig House sits above Portree Loch (in the Hebrides – an archipelago off the west coast of the Scottish mainland), sited in a wooded hillside, bedded into its wild context with views across the water. Two volumes intersect; an arching, blackened timber clad form follows the contours of the land, from which a rubbled local stone front wall descends dramatically, concealing further accommodation behind. This blackened timber cladding and natural stone walling reduces the visual impact of the dwelling from distant views.The use of natural materials runs into the interior, a free flowing, generous but understated space. The rough and rugged environment outside is striking, viewed through large expanses of slimline glazing. Clayplaster walls, natural resin floors and ash joinery work together in a carefully curated palette.
This house is very much modern and minimal which offers no distractions to the beauty outside its walls. I could sit on that sofa and watch the view for hours. Designed by Bath-based architecture and interior design firm Room. Photos: Toby Mitchell.

A handsome detached Cotswold stone town house in the centre of Stow on the Wold. A large open plan living area with French windows and bifold doors opening on to a stone terrace with small grassed area and pergola. Bespoke painted kitchen with large dark stained wood island & unique bar area. Separate snug, office and laundry with built in dog beds and bespoke cabinetry. 7 individually designed double en suite bedrooms including magical attic room featuring 4 painted beds built in to the eaves.
I adore every inch of this house. I’m especially fond of the kitchen – it has everything! Spacious, a combination of dark and light, a beautiful bar, 2 separate islands, built-in dog nook and fire (or is that a TV playing a fire video?) Available for hire via Shoot Factory.

I love this little 2 bedroom beachside cottage in Nantucket that LA-based Kevin Isbell designed. The colours and patterns are so vibrant and fresh and perfect for cottage life. Then you have the gorgeous mural (by artist Audrey Sterk) in the “Whale Room” that was printed on grasscloth – an absolutely brilliant element to create a moody and enveloping space in the family room. Obsessed!!! Photos: Read McKendree.

Magnificent Florentine-style chateau (located in Angouleme, Nouvelle Aquitaine), which has been built on its 13th century medieval foundations and surrounded by a dry moat, is full of history and is full of beauty and charm. The current structure dates back to 1614. On the ground floor there is a large entrance hall decorated with a stunning trompe l’oeil, 2 dining rooms, 1 with a coffered ceiling, a beautiful contemporary equipped kitchen and a large bedroom with its en-suite bathroom. The first floor offers 6 large bedrooms (1 currently used as an office) and 4 bathrooms, providing ample space for the owners to accommodate family and friends or to welcome guests in an enchanting setting. The vaulted cellars offer no less than 250m2. The 8.3 hectare of grounds include a park. The estate also features splendid outbuildings, including a large 200m2 reception hall ready for use, a workshop, a garage and a guest house to renovate, providing tremendous potential. The heated pool, enclosed by walls, and a gothic pigeon house, formerly used as a chapel with its altar, complete this unique property.
So much to love about this property. The history and presence of it, the surroundings, and that pool area is a exquisite! All of this for “only” €2,200,000. For sale via Prestige Property.

I had to share another beautiful home designed by Brittany Bromley. This Bridgehampton stunner is filled with personality and lots of layers and textures with some help from grasscloth wallpapers. With accents of blue in each space it makes it very cohesive and flows really well. Love this! Photos: Annie Schlechter.