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How to Create a Modern Victorian Interior Scheme | Spencer Thorpe Blog

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Victorian homes are packed full of character with high ceilings and well proportioned rooms boasting beautiful detailing that oozes period charm. It’s important to make the most of your space, creating a period home that’s functional and practical for modern use as well as rich with personality. Take a look at our tips for creating a beautiful Victorian home.

Boost your Assets

If you can, restoring original architectural features is a must – work with what you’ve got and enhance details like elaborate plaster moulding, ceiling roses, deep skirting boards, doors and even radiators. It’s worth thinking about installing dado and picture rails if these aren’t already present too. These seemingly small individual details work together to create a look that’s fresh, authentic and refined.

Fireplace

A fabulous fireplace is a beautiful focal point in any room, so make the most of yours and create a feature of it. A mantelpiece is the perfect spot for a beautiful picture or gorgeous gilt mirror, so don’t be shy and dress to impress.

Tiles

Flooring is so important in an interior scheme and this is no different when it comes to creating the perfect Victorian home. In grander rooms and hallways, the Victorians favoured beautiful parquet and in rooms with heavy traffic like a kitchen or bathroom it’s worth investing in some tiles. The Victorians loved pattern, so go bold and try to pick ones with colours that tie in with your colour scheme for a pulled together look.

Utilise the Space

Victorian rooms have ample ceiling height. Make the most of your space and use the full height of the walls to your advantage. A floor to ceiling bookcase is a great idea for avid readers, not only enabling you to showcase your reading collection, but acting as a visible marker in your room that implies depth and creates intrigue.

Bookshelves

Here the bespoke shelves have been fitted in the high alcoves, taking account the sloping ceilings to create a rich and resplendent scene by the fireplace. Just add a roaring fire and a glass of wine for the perfect place to sink down with a book during a cold winter’s eve.

Alcoves are a great way to add in extra storage, so in a Victorian home, which doesn’t tend to be open plan, work with what you’ve got and extra shelves in those interesting nooks and crannies.

Go Deluxe

When choosing your furnishings I would always follow the advice: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” And in a dreamy Victorian home, you can afford to indulge – imagine opulent chandeliers, roll top baths and lavish drapes. For furniture, keep an eclectic mix of styles and opt for rich upholstery like velvets and linens. Again take inspiration from William Morris by choosing a floral print with large blowsy flowers, or ones with birds and animals. Button-back armchairs and ottomans are staples and rooms should be filled with furniture as well as odds and ends – think of your whole house as a cabinet of curiosities.

Remember to use quality woods and pair this with marble finishes and brass, iron or pewter light fittings for a look that’s rich and luxurious, yet still modern and contemporary.

Colours

Victorian house plans and layouts tend to involve more rooms as opposed to the more modern open-plan living that we’re used to. But more rooms, means more colour options! If you dare, be liberal with your choices and use a variety of schemes in one home. Imagine the fun of a pink rococo style bedroom next to a regal looking green bathroom complete with roll-top – simply divine! If you prefer a modest style and the open plan feel of a modern home then it’s a good idea to stick with a light and bright neutral on every wall and introduce pops of colour in furniture, fixtures and fittings.

Dark interiors are having a moment and luckily this look will go hand in hand the gothic glamour embraced in modern Victorian schemes. Think inky blues, rich burgundies and forest greens – deep colour palettes for a moody look that’s so on trend. For a more modern look try painting your walls teal, but if you’re daunted by strong themes and colours then you could try using pale pinks and lilacs for a sweet and sugary look that will complement and highlight subtle features.

One of the best things about a Victorian scheme is that you have the freedom to mix and match what you like and be bold with your choices. Our advice is to go eclectic and indulge in all the beauty and character of the period and bring some personality into your home.

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And Breathe! A beautiful designer hotel and oasis... | Spencer Thorpe Blog

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At The Idealist we love to take a peek inside designer hotels and steal some ideas for our own homes. Michaelis Boyd, whose residential designs we’ve also featured have brought their beautiful aesthetic to this amazing space.

Nestled amongst the foliage of a living wall at the hotel’s entrance are the words “and breathe” in playful neon pink letters. This epitomises the spirit of the new the Kimpton De Witt Hotel in Amsterdam by Michealis Boyd, a design-led architectural practice known for their simple, elegant and creative approach to architecture.

Founded in 1995 by Alex Michaelis and Tim Boyd in Notting Hill, London, their work has ranged from contemporary additions on historic houses to new build residential projects whilst gaining a strong sector of the luxury residential market. Together with Ave Bradley, global senior vice president and design and creative director of Kimpton Hotels, inspiration came from the playful design approach of Kimpton, contemporary architectural principles and a nod to traditional Amsterdam.

Located in the heart of Amsterdam’s vibrant streets, the Kimpton De Witt hotel is within walking distance from the Centraal station yet once inside it feels like you are a world away from any city centre. The reconfigured ground floor provides a new entrance and a visual connection to the street with the feel of a retreat once inside.

A link to the natural world

There is a strong botanical link within the hotel evident by the living entrance wall, interior timber wall panelling and flooring and the new garden room situated at the heart of the building. This former lounge has been turned into a new garden room bringing daylight and fresh air into the centre of the hotel acting as a terrace to the House Bar nearby.

Interior accessories also reflect the natural world through deer elk and bee door knockers on the bedroom doors and bird pendant lights, all with a hint of the trademark Kimpton playfulness.

Making an Entrance

The reception area has striking graphic blue and white floor tiles inspired by the traditional Dutch delft tile and designed by Michealis Boyd. A ceramic tiled fireplace takes centre stage behind reception, a focal point of the banquette seating surrounding it complete with blankets and cushions creating a perfect place for reading and relaxing.

Living Room and Courtyard

The living room can be found next to the House Bar complete with an external courtyard featuring cascading plants, festoon lights and swing chairs enclosed within full height steel framed glazing. In the summer the courtyard can be opened allowing the light and fresh air to permeate through.

“For this project, we feel that we have transformed a quite dreary existing building into something fresh and vibrant. A key architectural element is the new courtyard that brings fresh air and daylight into the heart of the hotel – it’s a wonderful space to sit and enjoy on a sunny day.” Alex Michaelis on design of Kimpton De Witt Hotel, Amsterdam.

House Bar

Located within the historical Queen of Holland building, the House Bar has been painted a dark glossy teal colour and the space features original beams and timer wall panelling creating a dramatic and intimate space. Michaelis Boyd designed a bird motif wallpaper to run between the ceiling beams playing homage to the traditional painted murals that date back to the Dutch Renaissance era.

Guest Rooms

Smooth oak floors and colour blocked walls run throughout each of the 274 guest rooms, which are furnished with marble topped bedside tables, luxurious velvet fabrics and custom designed brass hanging rails. The bathrooms all feature bold and bright geometric floor and wall tiles.

Location

Kimpton de Witt Hotel Amsterdam, Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 5, 1012 RC Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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ATownhouse Study Room Tour | Spencer Thorpe Blog

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Perhaps the I may be guilty of slightly romanticising the sentiment, but there’s a rather curious parallel that can be drawn between the study and the times. In times past, the study was an erudite nerve centre of the home, a transition point between the home and the outside world- and certainly, in much the same way both time and society moved on, the study too, grew into a freer space, just as much a backdrop to artistic pursuits as it was to commerce or old-world diplomacy.

Though the study has undeniably evolved by way of its function, the vernacular by which the physical space is defined has remained somewhat unchanged and is often insufferably ‘officey’. At some point, it simply failed to keep pace with our broadening thought and sense of modernity. The industrious desk, the office chair, the uniform bookshelves and the tabletop work lamp have all endured as constants, drab and immutable markers of the space. This has given rise to a tired convention which has arguably made the concept of the study somewhat stale; we simple know what to expect, and by that token, are frequently left a touch uninspired by the studies we encounter.

Nestled amidst the streets of London’s Tufnell Park is a study belonging to a modernist townhouse that breaks the mould. The work of Kia Designs, this study is a bespoke composition, a highly functional environment that boasts inventive uses of space that not only gives it a look that is wholly unique, but also fashions it as a space with the capacity to adapt, changing to the needs and requirements of its owners. We take a tour of this striking and original space, paying close attention to Kia Designs’ use of form, texture and tones in achieving a quintessentially modern study space.

Higher Planes

When first encountering the study, it is difficult not to be impressed by sense of architectural and geometrical drama that Kia Designs incorporates into the room. Its space is split over two levels: the first being the floor level through which the room is accessed, and the latter being an elevated platform clad with bespoke cushions so as to create a peaceful and meditative environment.

Certainly, the study’s bold lines evidences Kia Designs’ forward-looking vision for the space whilst also noting a very conscious break from the tired narrative of the conventional study. The room’s two zones provide options to the way the space is experienced. The ground floor level plays to tradition, featuring a large, pull-away desk that is incorporated into the frame of the platform. Shelving units that are similarly embedded into the side of the platform’s frame ensure that stationery and books are all within arm’s reach, maximising productivity and workflow.

In contrast, the room’s elevated platform is a freer space, maintaining both an air of tranquillity and an inherently serene atmospheric arc which binds the home together. Adorned with bespoke cushions and unencumbered by furniture, Kia Designs fashion the platform section as a distinctly creative space and expressionistic space ideal for yoga stretches, meditation or music making.

Additionally, Kia Designs formed the platform level with so that it had a trick up its sleeve. As with most modern city homes, the study is a multifunctional space- and one capable of evolving with the needs of the owners that frequent it on a daily basis. The cavity below the floor platform conceals a bed, which can be brought to the surface level and repacked with tremendous ease. Similarly, the space in the room’s lower decks is also a fantastic storage solution, allowing for easy and practical concealment of bulky items, such as suitcases, that can be retrieved without breaking a sweat.

Mastering Lightness

Kia Designs’ masterful use of natural light was integral in injecting a lightness and expansive quality to the room. This was achieved through optimising the use of large feature windows, running almost the entire surface area of the wall that adjoins the elevated platform. Consequently, every section of the study is gorgeously illuminated. This emphasis on lightness is also carried in the room’s foundational textural and tonal palettes. The ceilings are finished in a delicate, creamy off-white which serves as a gorgeous counterpoint to the textured wallcoverings and herringbone parquet that adorn the walls and floors of the study. Here, the richness and complexity of the grain patterns adds a depth to the room, whilst also adding to the natural feel vital to space’s meditative focus.

This sense of lightness is also reflected in a philosophical vein through the Scandinavian-tinged, modern-minimalist style that marries the study’s various pieces of furniture. With a focus on simple forms and clean, elegant lines, Kia Designs’ discarding of weighty and superfluous frills allows for the space to breathe, adding to the desired airy quality. Similarly, the style perfectly accommodates the tonal accents that Kia Designs etch throughout the room. Resplendent pastel oranges and lime greens inject a punkish and youthful energy to the space, working with the study’s light, airy elements to concoct an invigorating and vitalising ambience.

A Style Collage

A true testament to the robustness of the study’s textural and tonal palettes is the ease with which it accommodates a myriad of different styles of furniture and decorative pieces. The space marries youthful and gorgeously electric midcentury touches, such as the Eames rocking chair with the rusticity and historical complexity of oriental-inspired pieces, such as the antiqued figurines and glassware that adorn the shelves. These elements never feel forced or congest the room, on the contrary serving as components that are organic and wholly natural to the space’s unique narrative. These historically and culturally separate styles are brought together by Kia Designs with astounding grace and finesse.

If by studying the study, per se, we can simply hold onto one take-home sentiment, it would simply be confidence. The study breaks from the tired vernacular of conventional design, on the contrary, brandishing its own bold cartographies and architectural play so that it a wholly functional and bespoke creation, built for the owner. This energy and sense of bravado is also carried in the way the space is composed. The study coolly brings together modern minimalist and Scandinavian architectural elements, itself crowned with mid-century and oriental ornamentation. This undeniably gives the study its own spirit and charm, a space that is built to inspire create output and facilitate mediation without compromise- in that sense, a study in the truest sense of the word.

Here are design elements inspired by Kia Designs’ work to capture this look for your own home:

Get the Look: Cosy country cottage ideas | Spencer Thorpe Blog

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As the winter coats come out and the nights draw in, you can almost hear the ticking of clocks slowly moving backwards – Autumn is in full swing. And with this is a longing for red wine, a cosy fire to curl up to and, dare I say, thoughts of Christmas already?

Cosy Country Cottage

A country cottage interior provides the ultimate cosy environment as the temperature drops and going through the transition is far easier to create than you may first anticipate. Take a look at our top tips on creating the perfect cosy country cottage in your own home.

Texture

In a cosy interior, texture is so important. If you imagine smooth finishes create a sleek and sometimes stark look, then rougher natural textures work in the opposite way to create a more intimate and comfortable atmosphere. You can think of texture in a few ways: architectural – wooden beams, stone walls; furniture – reclaimed woods, and weathered finishes; textiles – sheepskin rugs and woolen throws.

Without the luxury of being able to change your architectural features, it’s important to focus on furniture and textiles to create a warm and snug home. This means using natural materials when it comes to furniture like timbers and reclaimed woods with a characterful grain. If you have a leather sofa try pairing this with a knitted throw and some patterned cushions – playing with texture is fun and provides much needed warmth in your home.

Soft Light

Lighting is so crucial in any interior scheme, but particularly when creating a room with a cosy character. A real fire creates an ambience that’s unrivalled and firelight emits the perfect subtle glow and heat as cooler evenings creep in.

Last years Hygge sensation shone a spotlight on the importance of cosiness in the home, and one of the best tricks to employ was the everyday use of candlelight, with the Danes burning more candles per head that any other country in Europe. Candles offers a gorgeous muted flickering light and without a fireplace in your room it’s the perfect substitute – creating the ultimate soothing and pleasurable atmosphere. It’s also a great idea to use table and floor lamps rather than harsh overhead lighting, again this creates a calming atmosphere that’s ideal for winding down after a long day.

Layer it up

Throws, rugs and pillows – layering is the key for a cosy country cottage feel. Again using different textures adds warmth to a room so mix and match your weaves, patterns and materials for a look that’s eclectic yet pulled together. In terms of rugs, try something like a thick pile persian rug or a sheepskin for luxury underfoot or if you prefer something more contemporary, a berber rug is a great option. Also, a great tip is to layer two rugs over each other to add depth.

Gorgeous knits are the perfect accompaniment for an armchair in a reading nook, imagine the scene, curled up in your favourite chair, wrapped in a beautiful blanket with a good book and a cup of tea – sheer bliss. When choosing textiles, go for thicker basketweave knits for a more textured look. If you prefer something a little less bold, a tight-knit alpaca wool throw is a simple alternative.

Knits

Cushions not only add personality and colour to a space but are warm and inviting, providing added support too. They provide the perfect opportunity to try out lots of different colours and patterns in your home without overwhelming the space.

Furniture

As always, furniture is so important as it provides the foundations for your interior scheme and in a country living room, it’s important to choose the right sofa as the base for your layers and textures. The Findon 3 seater sofa from the John Lewis Croft collection is a great choice, with loads of fabric options and two leg finishes you can design the perfect sofa for your home.

Pair this with a beautiful ottoman like the Astor from Swoon Editions. It works as a coffee table, extra seating storage and importantly as a foot rest after a long day. The gorgeous oatmeal linen features diamond tufting that’s been upholstered by hand and a hand-carved solid wood frame that makes this a beautiful addition to your home and perfect for a cosy country cottage interior.

Experiment with Colour

A cosy country cottage scheme provides a great opportunity to experiment with bolder shades over traditional neutrals – it’s a good idea to stick with autumnal colours that aren’t oppressive, think deep russet reds and terracottas (yes, terracotta is back). Darker shades cocoon you and add depth to your space, resulting in a pleasant and homely abode. If you’re uncertain about painting a whole wall, then stick with accessories and textiles in these colours, paired against a neutral backdrop.

Again, if you prefer a neutral scheme, then duck egg blue accessories and upholstery works beautifully in a country interior. These cooler colours compliment natural shades creating a cohesive look that’s still cosy and inviting.

Mixed Patterns

A cosy country cottage is the perfect space to mix up your patterns. Tartans, checks, florals, it’s a great idea to stick to the same colour palette, but aside from this, throwaway the rulebook and mix and match your patterns.

It’s surprisingly simple to create a warm and inviting country cottage interior that’s ideal for the winter months ahead. Remember to focus on lighting, textures and patterns to create a timeless look and beautiful environment to relax in that you can call home.

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Modern Heroes: One Nine Eight Five | Spencer Thorpe Bloghttps://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/166597440569/modern-heroes-one-nine-eight-five_=_ One Nine Eight Five is the creation of Eleanor Nadimi and is an emerging textile brand with a keen social and environmental element using almost entirely ethically produced materials. With a collection of beautiful pieces and designs One Nine Eight Five is making waves in the design industry using bold colours and eye-catching prints. We wanted to find out more about the brand and met with Eleanor herself to dig a little deeper. Iminspired by lots of different things almost too much: film culture exhibitionsarchitecture fashion anything visual. Emergence Eleanor Nadimi Founder of One Nine Eight Five IDEALIST: How did One Nine Eight Fivecome about? SinceI was a kid I have always wanted to do something creative be an artist; I am atrue believer in following your dreams. At the age of 30 I finally felt like Iknew what I wanted to put my creativity into so I quit my job andmoved to London to set up One Nine Eight Five. Its been an emotionalroller-coaster but I wouldnt change it for the world. IDEALIST: What is your background? BeforeI started One Nine Eight Five I was living in Stockholm. I lived there for 41/2 years working as a print designer for Hamp;M. The job wasfantastic I travelled the world lead a team designed prints andforecasted trends. I learnt so muchworking there it was almost like aschool. Before that I studied printed textiles at a Masters level at the RoyalCollege of Art it was one of the best experiences of my life and has shaped meinto the designer I am today. Drawing Inspirations IDEALIST: Where do you draw yourinspiration from when creating new designs? Iminspired by lots of different things almost too much: film culture exhibitionsarchitecture fashion anything visual. My mind hasa tendency to jump from one thing to the next way too quickly. Challenges amp; Achievements IDEALIST: What have been yourbiggest challenges so far? There have been manyhurdles already but I would have to say that the biggest challenges would haveto be the day to day struggle of running a business. I had zero business skillswhen I started the brand every day was and still is a learningcurve for me.I think I was very nave as to how much more there is to running a creative businessthen designing. The second biggestchallenge so far has been finding factories that want to work with me. As a newbusiness I found a lot of companies didnt take me seriously; it took a lot of persistenceand thick skin to make people see that I was seriousabout the brand. Lastly the management ofmy time and energy has been and still is something that I am working on as itcan be very overwhelming working solo. IDEALIST: What has been yourbiggest achievement? This is a tricky one toanswer because things have been moving so quickly over the past year thatI sometimes forget to stop and actually enjoy the moment. I would have to say my 2biggest achievements aretaking thejump out of steadyemployment and starting One Nine Eight Five and having anexclusive collection in Heals within my first year of trading an absolute dreamcome true! I wanted to createa brand which has its core valuesfocused on using ethical processes Thoughts on Sustainability IDEALIST: You use recycledmaterials what does sustainable design mean to you? Ithink that when you start your own business it becomes an extension of who youare. As a result One Nine Eight Five needs to be a brand that has anethical approach in all aspects of the business. Sustainabilityhas always been veryimportant to me I love nature and appreciate howamazing the world is. The world we live in is extremely precious and I thinkthat everyone has a duty to do their bit in maintaining it. I wanted to createa brand which has its core valuesfocused on using ethical processesbeing dedicated to creatingBritish manufactured goods and working with recycled fabrics whereverpossible all of these points are super important to me and hopefully toothers too. Design Tips IDEALIST: What are your top 5design tips for the home?1. Nature bring the outside in with plants plants and more plants! 2. Dont sacrifice comfort in your home comfy sofascosy blankets rugs and lots of cushions are a must. 3. Embrace your ownauthentic style: your home should reflect your personality.Allow yourspace to continually change and grow with you it should be a place of comfortand inspiration. Start collecting things on your travels: the bestinteriors reflectwho you are where you have come from and hints at where you want to go remindingyou oftreasured memories. 4. Dont forgetthe walls. Artwork is so important as it helps to personalise your space aswell as strengthening a colour palette or theme in the room. 5. Usetechnology to your advantage by working with platforms like PinterestInstagram and Houzz to get the inspiration and confidence you need to achievethe look you want. Future Aspirations IDEALIST: Where do you see OneNine Eight Five in 5 years? I would love to bestocked internationally be recognised as an influential brand amongst my peershave collaborations with other companies on different product types and havegrown One Nine Eight Five to a size where I can employstaff. IDEALIST: Are there any exciting collaborations or projects on the horizon? Potentially but nothingthat I can talk about yet!! You May Also Like Modern Heroes: Corinne Webb of Frame and Cover Modern Heroes Impression Originale Patch: Revolutionising Our Approach to Plants All photos courtesy of One Nine Eight Five. The post Modern Heroes: One Nine Eight Five appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/modern-heroes-one-nine-eight-five/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/166597378313

Modern Heroes: Corinne Webb of Frame and Cover | Spencer Thorpe Bloghttps://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/166563406369/modern-heroes-corinne-webb-of-frame-and-cover_=_ Corinne Webb is shaping the future of furniture. Her home furnishings brand Frame and Cover solely uses sustainable materials such as coconut fibre sheeps wool and hessian and FSC-certified wood. Webbs commitment to the environment whilst creating bold statement furniture is disrupting the furniture-making world that hadnt otherwise changed for decades. Designing and selling my own furniture and fabric was a way to nurture my creative soul and make ethical decisions about manufacturing such as not using foam within any of my pieces. Starting Frame amp; Cover IDEALIST: Can you tell us how Frame and Cover began? Corinne Webb founder of Frame amp; Cover It was quite an organic path that lead from being a fabric designer within a large company to retraining as an upholsterer learning about every component within the construction of a chair. Being conscious about the environment I was aware that many companies didnt share this fundamental principle and I knew I wanted to be able to change certain elements.Designing and selling my own furniture and fabric was a way to nurture my creative soul and make ethical decisions about manufacturing such as not using foam within any of my pieces. IDEALIST: How has Frame and Cover grown? Having just celebrated the first year since launching at Design Junction in 2016 Frame and Cover is continually evolving like any other start up business. Ive built a growing body of work whilst sharing the message on the importance of sustainable furniture in our homes. Product Designs IDEALIST: Describe your products in terms of style process and materials. Frame and Cover create modern bold and liveable home furnishings using entirely sustainable methods. All the pieces are bespoke and crafted to order using traditional upholstery techniques. IDEALIST: You are passionate about sustainable home furnishings does this resonate with your customers? The market for sustainable products is growing and consumers are much more aware of where and how products and materials are sourced. It has opened up many conversations about the importance of using fully recyclable materials rather than foam polyester and wadding that have dominated the market since the 1950s. Inspiring Source IDEALIST: Where do you look for inspiration? The fabric designs come from a variety of sources. I have found inspiration through travelling and the culture designs and traditions from other countries have informed my fabric designs. I amfascinated by the ancient craft traditions of the other countries for example the back strap weaving of South America. So I think they have unconsciously fed into my designs. The last Riviera collection was inspired looking at the world from above and zooming inwards to the creatures and plants that inhabit it.Inspiration for some of my designs has come from a vintage wallpaper found in an antiques market and the skin of a parrot fish seen in an aquarium. IDEALIST: Where are your pieces made? I believe in supporting British businesses as much as possible; the chairs are made in the Midlands the cushions in Liverpool and the fabric in Lancashire. I adore Luciennes designs and loved the way she brought good design and made it accessible to all. Heroes IDEALIST: Who are your design heroes? I respect the careers ofLucienne and Robin Day. I adore Luciennes designs and loved the way she brought good design and made it accessible to all. It really opened up doing up homes for everyone. Vivienne Westwood is another design hero shes a woman of conviction and an innovator with strong ethics. Finally Ray and Charles Eames for experimenting with design and new materials resulting in great design at affordable prices.I admire anyone who is a disrupter helping to forge new directions within design. Future Projects IDEALIST: What are the future plans for Frame and Cover? Im designing a new model of dining chair and footstool to add to the current range of chairs and Im working on a new printed fabric and some semi-plain fabrics too. Id also love to work with more interior designers collaborate with others and work on custom projects in the future. You can check out Frame and Cover and social media handle @frameandcover. You May Also Like Modern Heroes Impression Originale Patch: Revolutionising Our Approach to Plants Meet the Maker : Ana Kerin of KANA London All photos courtesy of Frame amp; Cover. The post Modern Heroes: Corinne Webb of Frame and Cover appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/modern-heroes-corinne-webb-frame-cover/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/166563332958

Compact Living: Maximising Space amp; Style in Your... | Spencer Thorpe Bloghttps://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/166499616219/compact-living-maximising-space-style-in-your_=_ As the saying goes modernity has made the world smaller and by the same token has seemed to have done the much the same to urban homes. With countless numbers flocking to the major cities by the year space has become as much a premium as it has ever been and its just as well because recently there has been something of a culture that has formed around getting the most out of that valuable square-footage. Buzzwords like flexible living adaptive design and multi-functional keep the beat for modern metropolitan living inspiring new and ever-innovative solutions to negotiating tighter living areas. This said the smallest touches can make the biggest difference so its vital that we think outside the drab uninspired plastic storage box. Certainly compromising spaces doesnt equate with compromising your homes personality and character. Weve picked out a few pieces that weve slightly fallen in love with pairing them with ideas and concepts really get the most out of compact living spaces. Take to the walls Working on the same logic that has built some of the worlds greatest super cities when the all space is spent look upwards. Shelves are a great choice for organising your home while saving on that much desired floor space. The Darren wall shelf unitfrom Maisons Du Monde is something were all a little infatuated with. The quirky piece draws its inspiration from the fire escapes typically found on high rise buildings of New York. The pieces charm lies in the meticulousness of its recreation capturing the look of the iconic staircases down to the smallest detail. This makes the piece multifunctional as wall decoration in addition to a storage option. All metal and finished in a silhouette-like jet black the Darren shelf would look fantastic set against any lightly coloured wall. 91.99. The Madison metal wall shelf also from Maisons Du Monde is another fantastic option for maximising a compact living space through use of walls. Packing an industrial charm with its wooden shelf and black metal structure the Madison shelf is equally at home supporting your kitchen crockery or hallway accessories. Its hooks make it tremendously versatile while also adorning the design to further evoke the factories of bygone eras. 103.50. Jack of all trades One piece multiple functions. Its a formula that guarantees an efficient and functional living space. The following pieces pack bags of style and are a sure fire way to score the home run for a stylishly compact living space. The Laoenan trunkfrom Maisons Du Monde packs a certain golden age Hollywood nostalgia. Its entirely metal construction which is finished in a jet black and decoratively serial numbered gives the piece the look of the utility boxes from the film sets of yesteryear. The trunks charm is that it serves the purpose of a trunk while also being equally at home when being used as an occasional table. 161.00. Habitats Bobbly floor lampis a spunky and youthful reimagining of the classic floor lamp and is a great choice for compact living spaces. Its double-jointed slim stem means that the light can be contorted and reshaped for a variety of uses from reading to creating ambient settings. Finished in a powder-coated metal this lamp is robust and effortlessly cool. 65.00. Out of sight out of mind Few things open up a space more than decluttering it. In that sense intelligent space management and storage choices can do wonders in opening up your home and giving the illusion of a space as being larger than it actually is while also ensuring your living space is as functional as it can be. The Newport three panel folding screenfrom Maisons Du Monde is a great choice for sectioning off different areas in an open-planned living space. Crafted in the colonial style typical of heritage homes of the American east coast the divider is an elegant appointment to any home. Its neutral trans-white finish means it is a comfortable fit both many modern and classically styled homes. The grain still pops through and the nitro-cellulose finish means that the Newport screen will age and attain a weathered look in the vein of antique pieces over its life. 239.00. The Kubrik cupboardmakes for a potent pairing with the Newport panel also finished in an off-white. Italian made tall and slender its narrow 35 cm-wide frame makes it a great storage option for compact living spaces as it can unobtrusively be tucked away in any corner of your home. 350.00. The Daxton five level shoe storagefrom Habitat is a fantastic space-saving alternative to the conventional shoe rack. Capable of organising ten to fifteen pairs in its five tiers it declutters and saves appreciable amounts of real estate your hallway. Finished in a brilliant white its simple but elegant design means it can work with a variety of home designs. 95.00. A shorter three tier version is also available for more compact spaces at 70.00. Modular thinking Modular furniture is a great option for finding a perfect fit without going the boutique or bespoke routes. Maisons Du Mondes Terrence Rangeis a prime example of this. Made in France the range exudes an understated classiness with a simple yet elegant silhouette and neutral shades. Constructed form a solid pine frame and finished in Monet fabric the range is sturdy and easily shrugs off the wear and tear that comes with a metropolitan-paced life. Its beauty lies in the details. The legs are formed out of a Wenge-stained beech the dark tone of which gorgeously foils the shade of the upholstery. Finished in a lush white taupe putty-colour and all light slate and charcoal shades of grey the entire range has the capacity to match a variety of interior-styles. The largest module of the Terence range is the sofa-bed here shown in Maisons Du Mondes striking Charcoal Black finish. Forming a sofa when stowed away the base can be projected forward to form a comfortable single bed. 734.00. The Terence Monet linen chaiseis made to the identical colour and material specification as the Terence sofa-bed and pairs with it to make a striking corner sofa. 524.00. Combining these with other elements from Maisons Du Mondes Terence range such as the armless fabric two-seater(419.00) or the Terence modular pouffe(262.50) allows you to own a sofa that is tailor-made for your compact living space. Maisons Du Mondes Terence range is thorough and has pieces with armrests on either the left or right side so that whatever combination you chose it fits perfectly with your home. You might also like:Planning a Small-Space Living Room Theres no denying that a small space can be difficult to negotiate. Often a focus of functionality often means that style and artistic aspects are often compromised. The pieces from Maisons Du Monde and Habitat show that this simply does not have to be the case championing the idea that pieces can still be functional maximise space while still being tremendously easy on the eye. Save The post Compact Living: Maximising Space amp; Style in Your Home. appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/compact-living-maximising-space-home/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/166499568873

Idealist City Shopping Guide: Cheltenham | Spencer Thorpe Blog

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Known to many as the ‘western gateway to the Cotswolds,’ the regency spa town of Cheltenham beams with the old-world charm of its eighteenth century heyday. Certainly, its history as to how as to how it became the famous spa town it is makes for a fascinating little read. In 1716, Henry Skilicorne, Captain and retired ‘master mariner’ discovered the mineral springs and aimed to develop a spa around it. By 1738, he outfitted his spa with a pump, an elaborate well house, and billiard and ballrooms to ensure that his wealthy patrons were entertained during their stay. The town’s iconic, tree-lined promenades were also a notable Skilicorne initiative, conjuring up poetic and inspiring spaces for his rich and well-travelled guests to navigate through. The 1788 visit from King George III, the queen and the royal princess gave Cheltenham the royal seal of approval, firmly establishing the town as one of the fashionable haunts in the health and fashion vernacular of the wealthy.

Certainly, Cheltenham’s spa legacy is by no means a thing of the past- the town’s ever-healing waters can still be sampled at the Pitville Pump Room. However, Cheltenham is so much more than just this. Names affiliated with the city include the likes of legendary novelist Lewis Carroll and composer Gustav Holtz. Of late, Cheltenham has also become a culture hub, having hosted of literary, dramatic and jazz festivals; certainly, the town’s newfound vitality has not gone unnoticed with the New York Times having remarked on its recent cultural renaissance. What the tour guides forget to mention, however, is that Cheltenham’s fair streets and many lanes are adorned with a treasure trove of boutiques that can do wonders for your home. We inspect the town with a fine toothcomb, and in the process, establish out just why Cheltenham should on your radar for your next city break.

Shopping

Few things can top the charm and unpredictable excitement of an authentic market experience – and Cheltenham Market offers exactly that. Cheltenham Market, at 252 Bath Road, is a mosaic of stalls offering everything from new and vintage furniture (check out House@252 for this in particular), home décor, accessories, jewellery, bric-a-brac, clothes, toys – and almost anything, really. With the roster of stalls changing on a weekly basis, it is impossible to predict what one can find at any given time, which, I suppose, is the beauty of it all. We’re confident you will find that wildcard curiosity or that just special something you will simple fall in love with.

Since opening its doors in 1929, Winnens has always been a distinctly Cheltenham based, family run establishment. Winnens’ larger, Tewkesbury Road showroom, which the company moved into in 2014, displays the breadth of the company’s home and interior inventory, featuring distinguished brands like Amtico, Harlequin, Karndean and Stressless Global. Winnens stock a brilliantly wide range of styles, particularly excelling in contemporary, mid-century and minimalist traditions in addition to their beautiful, classically styled pieces. You’ll be sure to find something to inspire new life into your home here.

Wesley-Barrell has its roots in Witney, Oxfordshire, going as far back as 1895. Today, the company still produces both contemporary and traditionally styled using artisan techniques honed over 120 years of manufacturing. Their hand-upholstered sofas and armchairs honour British design and demonstrate their deep commitment to the highest levels of craftsmanship. Wesley-Barrell produces and stocks furniture for any room in the house, including pieces for dining rooms, bedrooms and living areas. For beautiful furniture that is both conceptualised and brought to life within these shores, Wesley-Barrell’s reputation is certainly amongst the best out there.

Innovative, experienced, proactive. These three terms are the words chosen by Paragon to describe the way they operate. The commercial art gallery, found at Four Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier Street, work closely with both the client and their artists, nurturing and promoting their talent whilst offering a price fair to both parties. The gallery is a tremendously exciting place, with a wide diversity of art composed across a variety of mediums, styles and by artists sourced locally and from across the world. There is always new work on show, meaning that no two trips will be the same. Paragon is a dynamic gallery and one that is driven by a genuine passion to support and foster outstanding art.

For high quality antiques in a beautiful setting, visit The Triton Gallery on Suffolk Parade, which specialises in mirrors and lighting. As well as chandeliers and other breathtaking lighting features, owner Lorenzo Bianco also sells garden furniture and smaller pieces such as vintage crockery in this small but cosy store. And it’s no wonder the pieces are all so unique and well-curated – Lorenzo travels all over Europe to find the treasures himself! Open Wednesday to Saturday, 11am to 4pm, or by appointment.

For something a bit more modern, check out the Curious City Print Shop, which produces a quirky selection of limited edition prints inspired by the people and places that make up the city of Cheltenham. Bring home a colourful memory of the places you’ve seen during your stay, like Sandford Parks Lido, Montpellier Gardens and Cheltenham College, or a local event you’ve attended, such as Gold Cup Day, the Literature Festival and more.

Let’s Eat

Cheltenham’s restaurants exhibit the variety and diversity seen in its boutiques in much the same fashion. Offering everything from posh nosh to humble pie, local and international, the town’s many eateries have a little something for everyone.

Lumiere is a 3AA Rosette winning restaurant that has a reputation for excellence when it comes to offering the very best in British cooking, drawing its inspiration from the seasonal produce found at its doorstep. Chef John Howe’s contemporary three-course lunch, five-course tasting and five-course dinner, nine-course tasting menus all focus on fresh, seasonal produce sourced from local farms, markets and suppliers that the restaurant work closely with. From this, John’s culinary alchemy extracts bold flavours and gorgeous textures, all immaculately and imaginatively presented on the plate. Helen Howe, John’s wife, is charge of the restaurant’s famed hospitality, and heads the knowledgeable team that that aim to offer you the best dining experience. One would need to make a reservation so as to avoid disappointment.

With an ancient Sanskrit name meaning ‘earth, or mother earth,’ Prithvi firmly believe that ‘a memorable dining experience is not only about the food and wine. It is an emotional experience – every little detail matters.’ It is expressly by this that their modus operandi is composed. Prithvi reimagines Indian cuisine, offering it in a modern and inventive style that breaks from the stereotypes and conventions that has worn and somewhat cheapened the country’s culinary traditions. The restaurant re-establishes Indian cuisine to its art form status, offering dynamic and innovatively formed courses that captures the complexity and delicateness of the cuisine. The service is smart, insightful and knowledgeable- it’s no wonder that The Telegraph gave it the number two spot when ranking the best Indian restaurants across the country.

Tucked inside a beautiful twenties cinema on the beautiful Suffolk Parade, The Daffodil guarantee a high-end culinary experience. Their carefully sourced ingredients are treated with respect they deserve, the sum of which culminating in artistically composed plates of food. The Daffodil sports a large cellar of wines to match your meal. Their extensive collection features a selection of: reds, whites, roses and champagnes, available by the glass or bottle. With the interiors composed by Laurence Llewellyn Bowen and influenced by the art-deco grandeur of Hollywood’s golden age, The Daffodil aims to offer a glamorously unforgettable dining experience.

Getting Here & Hotels

One of the perks that come with the territory of being the capital is that London has outstanding connections with other cities across the country, with Cheltenham being one of these. If you don’t fancy the drive, regular services from London Paddington will see you arriving at Cheltenham Spa in just over two hours. However, to really make the most of what the town has to offer it is imperative you look beyond the daytrip –and- when it comes to hotels, we just might know a place or two that have a reputation for being particularly brilliant at doing what they do.

No. 131 is one of those places that are just effortlessly cool. The Grade II listed Georgian property was unoccupied for years prior to receiving the breath taking renovation that brought No.131 to life. The hotel, restaurant and bar is the brainchild of Sam and Georgina Pearman, boasting eleven rooms that gorgeously marry vintage and contemporary elements. A hushed tonal palette, paired with earthy woods and industrial metals really captures a metropolitan Parisian or New Yorker vibe, packing character in spades. Room service by a friendly and attentive staff, a fantastic restaurant and bar, complementary Wi-Fi and parking cover your basic needs whilst staying in their beautifully composed rooms.

Perhaps a rural retreat might be something a touch more your style, and for that, few hotels come better qualified than Ellenborough House. Situated just two miles away from the city centre, the hotel perfectly walks the line between proximity to all the action and the notably green look of a countryside getaway. The ninety acres of estate within which the hotel sits certainly makes sure of that. Pulling up to the hotel, the core of which dates back to the 1500’s you’re sure to feel like you’re stepped into a time machine and that iPhone in your hand will most definitely seem anachronistic in such a space.

The building was formerly the home of the De la Bere family and the eponymous Earl of Ellenborough, prior to it being converted into a hotel in the seventies. Composed by Nina Campbell, the rooms capture a country look whilst still remaining defiantly upmarket. A medley of warm tones, richly veneered and exposed-grain wooden furniture and space illuminated by swathes of natural light give these rooms a gorgeously elegant air. On top of all your basic needs, saunas, spas and faculties for leisure sports such as golf might actually make you forget about much else and might make leaving the hotel quite difficult- don’t say we didn’t warn you.

For those seeking something with a slightly more contemporary flavor whilst still wanting to be surrounded by oodles of greenery, Cowley Manor might just be what you’re after. The Italianate country house brings zesty tones and elegant uncomplicatedness of Mediterranean style right to the heart of the Cotswolds. The hotel sits on fifty-five acres of parklands, and is just 10 minutes away from the centre of town. The rooms are styled very much in accordance with the clients’ needs but all boast the funky tonal and stylistic touches that pack so much character into the hotel. On top of the basics, the hotel crème de la crème is it spa and two swimming pools to really ensure that relaxation is the name of the game during your stay here.

Rounding Off

As a town Cheltenham has plenty to offer, be it its lengthy and chaptered history, ties with historically significant novelists and composers or just the fresh-faced, cultural hub for the arts it has become today. Certainly, by way of its exclusive boutique hotels, restaurants and astoundingly beautiful surrounding, Cheltenham is certainly no slouch when it comes to fashioning itself as a place for rest and recuperation – after all, the town has built a bit of a historic reputation for being just that. However, what must not be overlooked are the town’s many home and interior boutiques, antiques dealers, and art galleries. In much the same way Cheltenham may leave you feeling refreshed and beaming with a fresh vigour, the town may just do the same to your home also.

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Modern Heroes – Impression Originale | Spencer Thorpe Blog

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With the aim to make a lasting impression, Mathilde Habert and Claire Commeau founded Impression Originale, offering exclusive luxury wrapping paper and couture bows and ribbons. A year on, with stockists such as the Conran shop, Harvey Nicholls, Château de Versailles and Paris department store Bon Marché, Mathilde tells us more.

We believe that true luxury is the attention to detail and the unique emotion you experience, which will stay with you long after the gift is gone. Our aim is to rethink the art of giving with our beautiful products.

Creative Beginnings

IDEALIST: We love the original, colourful, and creative world of Impression Originale, can you tell us how it began?

I was inspired to approach the art of wrapping gifts in a novel and creative way, founded in ethical sustainability. Claire and I give priority to creativity and we have no limits so, like most businesses, we had an idea and we’re growing with it.

IDEALIST: For someone new to your brand how would you best describe it?

What do you remember when you receive a gift? For us it’s the emotion that you feel, the hidden message within in the gift, the time and care it beholds. We believe that true luxury is the attention to detail and the unique emotion you experience, which will stay with you long after the gift is gone. Our aim is to rethink the art of giving with our beautiful products.

Being Friendly with the Environment

IDEALIST: Can you explain your commitment to the environment and the art community.

Our business is built on good ethics with all products responsibly made in France using 100% recycled paper. Caring for the environment is about the different decisions we make everyday, such as where we source our paper and what kind of supplies we work with. We left nothing to chance. In parallel, we decided to give a crafty touch to our business, going back to a local approach in production whilst always keeping our eyes open for new inspirations and artists.

IDEALIST: We’d love to know your process of finding and collaborating with artists.

You would be surprised, the process is actually quite ad hoc. We select the artist by “coup de coeur” (roughly love at first sight for the designs), whether we like the style, the spirit or a particular design. We usually approach the artist (or get approached by artists) and if a specific design matches our collective artistic orientation, we agree to work on an original design. We work with the artist to best format it for our wrapping format and technical specifications and they sign each design. It’s a fun and very creative process.

we offer original designs, printed on 100% recycled paper made in France in a sustainable and ethical manner.

Daring to be Different

IDEALIST: What sets your products apart form other gift wrap?

In a nutshell we would say that we offer original designs, printed on 100% recycled paper made in France in a sustainable and ethical manner.

Our wraps are on XL sheets, which are substantially larger than the current standard in the industry. We also use a mechanical printing process, which gives very deep and colourful prints and makes this glossy aspect. Each wrap is doubled-side printed with a grid to make sure you get this perfect cut and we suggest matching ready-to-use ribbons and bows to compliment each design wrap.

IDEALIST: Are you able to tell us about any bespoke projects you have worked on?

With the Musée Rodin in Paris we have been asked to work on a surprise project. We have chosen one of our collaborative artists to develop a bespoke design based on the beautiful statues of Auguste Rodin and gave it a modern twist. We feel very lucky to be able to work with these beautiful names and very inspiring places. We have also an on-going bespoke project with the Château de Versailles, where we have developed some commissioned designs based on the castle’s iconography. The designs are gorgeous and we cannot wait to see the final results in their boutiques next year!

From Seedling to Flowering

IDEALIST: How your business has grown?

We are just about a year old and are happy to see that our products have been well received as we are not only selling design wraps, we have a philosophy behind it, and I believe this makes the difference in our clients’ eyes. Our current stockists are: the Conran Shop, the Centre Pompidou, the Bon Marché, Harvey Nichols and we’d love to add other boutiques and museums to our list.

A Hero’s Hero

IDEALIST: Who are your design heroes and how have they influenced you?

Sonia Delaunay is a major one. We were so happy to see that she has been recently presented in exhibitions in Tate Modern and Musée d’art moderne de la ville de Paris. She is at the base of the shoe modern textile design, really. Also Anni Albers’ work on texture and colors has been inspiring us to give diversity of textures and work in depth on the colorways. Hella Jongerius is another influence for her passion of colours and textile. We love how she kept doing experiments with colours on her design even after so many years in design. She kept a fresh eye “Garder un œil neuf” and we are aiming at that too!

Future Aspirations

IDEALIST: What’s next for Impression Originale and what are your aspirations for the future?

There are lots of aspirations for the future. We are looking at other ways of wrapping, with innovative material to really push the sustainability aspect to its limits.

We are also working on the western Furoshiki, which the traditional Japanese way of wrapping presents. In Japan, they use textile to wrap! It is for us a great challenge to translate that in our more western culture, but we love the sustainability of the use of fabric and the endless creative options it opens! We love challenges, so let us see where it brings us.

You can find out more at www.impressionoriginale.com

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Idealist City Guide: Bath | Spencer Thorpe Blog

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For a long time now, Bath’s photogenic sensibilities have been common knowledge across the entire country. Certainly, ask any person that calls Bath home, and ninety-nine per cent of the time, they won’t hesitate in reminding you of that. This is all with very good reason, of course.

The ancient city of Bath, much improved by the Romans, is a World Heritage site and has a lengthy history that, arguably, refashions the space as different things to different people: where many come for the historic baths themselves, others come for honey-stone Georgian crescents or the city’s connections with Jane Austen. However, Bath is also a treasure trove of cool antiques, galleries and boutiques, perfect for administering that ‘edge’ or new life into your home. Considering the city’s eclectic range of boutique hotels and haute cuisine restaurants, the idea of escaping to Bath, even if just for a little while, has never sounded better.

Shopping

To say Silcox Son & Wicks has had a storied history with Bath is to understate the establishment’s relationship with the city. It’s a rather beautiful story that all started in 1900, when cabinetmaker Frank Silcox was, in Dickensian style, fired on the spot when asking for a pay raise. He then started his own furniture business, and was joined by his son and by Albert Wicks, establishing the brand name they still carry today. Since then, Silcox Son & Wicks has seen every style revolution in the book- from the age of Art Deco in the 1930’s through to the geometric frenzies of midcentury style and eighties Avant Garde modernist interiors. Their inventory reflects this. Their flagship store, housed over numbers Five to Seven New Street, features luxury furniture over three floors. From sofas to lamps, artwork to living room pieces, all can be found here.

Rossiters of Bath is an award-winning, design-led department store situated right in the heart of Bath’s historic Georgian streets. Their eclectic collection of carefully curated, Avant Garde to classically styled homeware, gifts and fashion is spread across the store’s four floors- which are interconnected in an Aladdin’s cave-like network of stairs and wood-panelled rooms. They stock everything from kitchenware- featuring brands like Emma Bridgewater and Cornishware, imported ceramics from Europe and the Middle East, luxury cushions, throws, dining ranges, fabrics and artwork. Their basement level is the only outlet of Winser London clothing that is found in the West. Having traded in Bath since 1961, Rossiters have developed a reputation for the high quality of their custom service. In their own words, ‘This is less a store, more a destination, so when you plan your visit make sure you leave plenty of time to get lost in its delicious interior.’

Having traded in Bath’s city centre for over three decades, Quiet Street Antiques has become something of a local institution. Stocking everything from authentic Gillows of Lancaster furniture, to antique clocks and barometers to writing boxes, tea caddies, sculptures and paintings, we’re confident that you find that particular something that can inject any space with a historical depth. Though Quiet Street Antiques feature select pieces on their website, the boutique’s wares are stocked in their entirety in the Bath store and are best enjoyed in the flesh.

Bath the worst of all places to get any work done

Beaux Arts is the longest-established commercial art gallery in Bath, and is the sister to Beaux Arts located on London’s Maddox Street. Situated in a period Georgian building beside the abbey, Beaux Arts specialise in the works of major 20^th century painters, sculptors and ceramicists that include the likes of Dame Elisabeth Frink, John Bellany, Lynn Chadwick and Sir Terry Frost- to name just a few. Of its eight annual exhibitions, four are dedicated to showcasing the best of emerging talent. Contemporary artists represented by Beaux Arts include Anna Gillespie, Takeshi Yasuda, Emmanuel Cooper and Lucie Rie. If there’s something you’re after to make an artistic statement for your home, you will most definitely not be disappointed here.

Let’s Eat

After spending much of our time both shopping and absorbing Bath’s history, you’re sure to develop a bit of an appetite. And, if you’re a keen foodie, Bath will not disappoint. Dotted around its postcard-perfect lanes are some of the finest restaurants in the country, many of which are run by names from the upper echelons of the cooking world. Whether it’s gastro-pub, or something with a more continental flavour, or perhaps even a taste from around the world- all can be found here.

Menu Gordon Jones is the brainchild of the eponymous chef, bringing together culinary elements from his Scottish upbringing and his own, fresh approach to food. Everything featured on the restaurant’s plates is made in house by the Michelin acclaimed chef and team. The restaurant’s five-course lunch, and six-course dinner surprise menus display Gordon Jones’ artistry and innovative approach to cooking, whilst making the most of fresh, local ingredients sourced from suppliers that the restaurant work closely with. Ever pushing the boundaries, the menu is in a constantly changing. The best testament to Menu Gordon Jones’ brilliance are the countless rave reviews it has been the recipient of- to quote just one: ‘for sheer food IQ, Menu Gordon Jones is peerless’.

The Herd Steak Restaurant is a family run establishment. Their philosophy is simple: ‘best of British steak perfectly seared your way, together with carefully created complementary dishes and an outstanding wine list’. To bring this vision to life, The Herd Steak Restaurant sources meat of the finest provenance from the most local and trusted suppliers. Aberdeen Angus and Hereford Crosses are reared in Coulston and aged between twenty-one and twenty-eight days in Devizes. Paired with both quirky and traditional sides –your call- The Herd Steak Restaurant is a must for a superlative steak dining experience.

Since opening its doors in 1992, Green Park Brasserie has been doing things a little differently. The award-winning restaurant has developed a reputation for offering not only top-notch food, but similarly top-notch live jazz ensembles that perform at ‘the Braz’ on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Their beautifully composed menus are underpinned by locally sourced, high quality ingredients- achieved through close collaboration with local suppliers. From cheeses by Homewood, meat from both Newton and Castlemead & Sandridge Farms, and fish from St. Mawes, Cornwall, Green Park Brasserie ensures to offer the best of both Somerset and the west on their plates.

Getting Here & Hotels

As Londoners, we’re slightly spoiled in that much of the country is within easy reach- and this is certainly the case with Bath. If you don’t fancy the drive, services from Paddington Station will get you there in just under one and a half hours. However, to really make the most of your time here, a daytrip simply won’t cut it. We’ve shortlisted some of the city’s most acclaimed and trendiest hotels to serve as home base during your time here.

The Gainsborough Bath Spa takes its name after the famed artist, Thomas Gainsborough. The hotel, housed in a Grade II listed Georgian building that dates back to the 18^th century, is the first five star hotel in Bath for thirty years and the only one in Britain to have direct access to the region’s natural, thermal waters. In keeping with the historic building, the interiors gracefully balance traditional and contemporary touches whilst also displaying historical artefacts such as Roman coins, found during the excavation of the site. The rooms are magnificently composed spaces. Light floods through the large windows, poetically illuminating the spaces’ high ceilings. Muted tones stay faithful to a notable Georgian visual vernacular, whilst features such as the immeasurably comfortable Sealy bed, Egyptian cotton sheets and Asprey Bathroom products iterate the notably five star experience the hotel is renowned for.

Perhaps you’re after something that’s a touch more urban, in which case the Apex City of Bath might just be your ticket. Sporting a gorgeous, contemporary Bath stone façade, the Apex makes a notably urban, modernistic statement from the get-go. This is not to say its metropolitan character skimps on opulence by any means. Liberal use of glass beautifully illuminates the hotel’s interior, bringing to life the marble that the lobby space is clad with. The hotel offers a variety of rooms tailored for different arrangements. All are spacious, sporting moody and atmospheric counterpoints of bright and slick urban tones. Rooms are well equipped, containing televisions with a full Sky package and coffee machines. Bathrooms sport rainforest showers, Elemis bathroom products, heated mirrors –and most vitally, of course, a yellow rubber duck.

If you’re after a hotel with the most picturesque postcode in the whole of Bath, you’ll find The Royal Crescent tough to top. Arcing staircases, oil paintings and saintly chandeliers are just three items that form the notably classical vernacular of the hotel. Rooms situated on the hotel’s ground floor house the Spa and Downer House Restaurants, which compared with the building take on a more contemporary look. The rooms take many forms, ranging from palatial suites that would not look out of place in a Jane Austen novel, to smaller, more affordable spaces on the hotel’s upper floors. The bathrooms feature marble floors, walk-in showers, slippers and robes. Tea trays can be ordered at no extra charge.

Some Thoughts

The great politician and philanthropist, William Wilberforce once said that: ‘Bath the worst of all places to get any work done’ – and it’s not terribly difficult to see why. The city’s astoundingly lengthy history is, by itself, enough to mesmerise and wholly consume a visitor’s time for days, if not weeks, on end. Add the city’s vibrant culture to the mix: a stunning plethora of boutiques, restaurants, breath-taking architecture, grounds and sites of cultural interest to the mix and you’ve got a recipe for a truly special break from fair London.

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