I've spent more time than I care to admit pausing Nancy Meyers movies to get a good glimpse at the interiors. And lately, it's the bathrooms I keep going back to. Managing to feel lived-in yet still polished, these are the kind of spaces that make you want to draw a bath, light a candle, and stay a while.

So you won't be surprised that it's the Nancy Meyers aesthetic that I'm trying to recreate in my bathroom remodel. While no two Meyers movie bathrooms are exactly the same – there's a vast difference in size and vibes between the bijoux bathroom in The Holiday vs Anne Hathaway's Brooklyn-based suite in The Intern – but they all share a sense of softness, timelessness, and a layered, vintage bathroom charm that’s hard to fake.

But how, exactly, do you bring that Nancy Meyers bathroom feeling into your own home? According to the experts, it's not just about adding a clawfoot tub (though those certainly feature heavily in the best interiors from movies). Here, I break down the best tips and all the key elements that can help turn your bathroom into something straight out of a Meyers movie set.

How to make your bathroom feel like something out of a Nancy Meyers movie

To me, there's something deeply aspirational yet still attainable about the bathroom ideas in Nancy Meyers' movies. Full of feeling, character, and comfort, there isn't a particularly distant style that runs throughout her movies, but a sense of coziness that they bring to the on-screen character.

'Nancy Meyers is renowned for her effortlessly chic and welcoming interiors, where every detail feels intentional yet approachable,' adds designer Becky Shea. 'Her signature style translates beautifully into bathroom design, offering an opportunity to create a serene retreat that exudes quiet luxury with a soft, feminine touch.'

In The Holiday, Iris’s cottage bathroom is charmingly rustic, with exposed beams, antique-style fixtures, and a teeny tiny freestanding bathtub tucked beneath a stone-clad window – the perfect spot for ruminating on one's life choices with a glass in hand.

In It’s Complicated, Meryl Streep’s bathroom might also have a tub, but the similarities end there. Instead, this space is breezy and elegant, with subway tiles and a garden view that makes it feel almost spa-like. Then there’s Anne Hathaway’s bathroom in The Intern – still clean and classic, yet a little more modern, with crisp tiling, polished brass, and panelled walls.

Each bathroom feels different, yet unmistakably “Meyers”: light-filled, layered, and livable. Here's how to achieve that look in your own home.

1. Stick to a natural yet neutral palette

One thing is immediately obvious about a Nancy Meyers movie bathroom: the color palettes must be calm, classic, and quiet. Think neutral bathroom ideas with soft, earthy tones and accents of color. I always think of Nancy Meyers’ bathrooms as tonal, but never boring.

Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra, says: 'Nancy Meyers-inspired bathrooms are a masterclass in creating spaces that feel timeless, inviting, and effortlessly chic. The use of neutral tones, such as soft whites, creams, and taupe, serves as the perfect backdrop for natural materials that ground the space and add warmth.'

'For the walls, I typically lean toward crisp, clean tones like White Dove by Benjamin Moore,' suggests Becky Shea. 'It’s a soft white with subtle warmth that keeps the space from feeling stark or clinical, which is key in creating a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. The overall effect is a harmonious blend of timeless materials and understated elegance, perfect for a space where you can unwind and feel refreshed – exactly the kind of refined yet livable design Nancy Meyers is celebrated for.'

2. Squeeze in a freestanding tub

If there’s one true hallmark of a Nancy Meyers bathroom, it’s the freestanding tub. Whether it’s the famous clawfoot one in the rustic bathroom from The Holiday or the more modern slipper tub in The Intern, Meyers loves a bathtub scene.

'This style of bathroom embodies a refined sense of luxury, with a careful selection of high-end materials that create an air of timeless elegance,' says Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs. 'Central to these spaces is the inclusion of freestanding baths, which serve as the focal point of relaxation and indulgence.'

'It is also important to consider what the baths are made from, choosing materials such as tin or antiqued copper, both of which add a touch of vintage charm,' he suggests. 'Other premium finishes for baths include solid surface, which can be made using natural minerals, which means the bath remains warm to touch, even when not in use, and so provides a much more relaxing bathing experience.'

Even if your space is tight, there’s often a clever way to fit one in by repositioning other fixtures or opting for a more compact model. Acting as a focal point to the space, a tub can then be styled up with a stool, a candle, a book, and a glass of wine.

3. Try out terracotta or natural stone tile

Even in the most minimalist bathrooms in her movies, there is nothing overtly modern or cold about these spaces, thanks to the soft color palette, styling, and use of natural materials and textures.

Take the worn, aged stone in Meryl Streep’s bathroom in It’s Complicated; while at first it appears to be simple gray tile, it is in fact a muted natural stone checkerboard that gives the spaces a sense of lived-in, quiet charm that reflects the characters themselves. Naturally, it is all about storytelling.

Grazzie is also a fan of trying out terracotta tiles in a bathroom. 'Terracotta tiles, with their rich, earthy hue and textured surface, offer a tactile contrast that not only brings color and depth to the room but also evokes a sense of organic luxury,' she explains.

'When paired with marble accents, such as when used as countertops on vanity units or bathroom shelf ideas, the space achieves an elegant balance between raw and refined. Together, these elements embody the effortless elegance seen in Nancy Meyers' films, transforming the bathroom into a serene retreat that feels both timeless and deeply personal.'

4. Introduce a warm wooden vanity

Whether it's a vintage dresser-turned-vanity or a classic Shaker-style cabinet in a painted oak finish, the presence of a wooden bathroom vanity adds depth and softness that no glossy white unit ever could.

'Styling the bathroom extends beyond material choice and leans into the art of comfort and subtle luxury. Bespoke vanity units, often crafted from rich woods or custom finishes, provide both practical storage and a bespoke feel,' says Barrie.

Even if you're working with a brand-new bathroom, adding wood gives it a sense of permanence and patina. It grounds the space and adds a note of elegance that feels both relaxed and elevated.

'To achieve that quintessential Nancy Meyers aesthetic, I love incorporating natural oak for cabinetry or accents, paired with burnished brass fixtures that add warmth and sophistication,' adds Becky. 'Marble is another must-have – whether on countertops, floors, or shower walls – providing a timeless and elegant foundation.'

5. Finish the look by styling with collected pieces

'Any time you're hoping to channel Nancy Meyers in your home decor, lived-in luxury is the name of the game,' advises designer Kathy Kuo. Never sterile or over-designed, these bathrooms are filled with characterful touches that feel as though they’ve been gathered over time.

'For a Nancy Meyers-worthy bathroom, invest in super-luxe towels and linens, a soothing scented candle, and meaningful wall art. An antiqued mirror is also a nice touch that I can totally envision on-set in The Holiday or It's Complicated,' she adds.

It’s the small, collected pieces that bring the bathroom to life. In my own bathroom, I sourced a few vintage finds, including a small oil painting and a French bobbin stool to place next to my tub.

'Towels and fabric blinds will bring softness and warmth to the room,' adds Barrie. 'Accents like woven baskets, fresh flowers, and carefully placed artwork add an inviting, lived-in quality while maintaining an overall sense of refinement.'

Shop the Nancy Meyers' bathroom aesthetic

With the right finishes, a soft palette, and a few collected pieces, your bathroom can feel just as charming and soul-soothing as any Nancy Meyers movie set. And if you're looking to be further inspired, take the Nancy Meyers aesthetic throughout your entire home with our guides to Nancy Meyers living room ideas, Nancy Meyers inspired kitchen ideas, and Nancy Meyers inspired bedroom ideas.

Georgian properties are abundant in the UK, where the storied design originated from – however, not many of these preserved houses can count iconic British songwriter and "Running Up That Hill" singer Kate Bush among their inhabitants.

A house in Theale, Reading, in the West Berkshire region just so happens to have belonged to the musician at one point (in fact, she even repurposed part of the home to work as a recording studio), and now, it can belong to anyone for £11,500,000 (approximately $14.2 million) Listed with Strutt & Parker, the nine-bed, seven-bath house is located on a sprawling 22.54 acres of land.

Built in 1800, the Georgian home is full of historic charm, though it comes outfitted with underfloor heating, a triple garage, two separate ancillary properties, and a riverside garden. Let's take a closer look.

The Grade II, red brick build is located on the River Kennet, where it used to run as a Georgian paper mill, the ruins of which can still be found on the original property.

Arched entryways, white tiled floors, and wood furniture make the space feel grand yet cozy, with the natural materials adding texture and character to the space.

A Georgian home wouldn't be complete without a sitting room, and this one is primed with a working fireplace, large windows, and ample room for large sofas and coffee tables.

The kitchen, meanwhile, opts for marble countertops, Gaggenenau appliances, and a mix of unpainted wood and blue-painted cabinets. The blue paint adds a nice pop of color to the otherwise neutral space. There is also a second prep kitchen for additional space when hosting a large group of guests.

The primary bedroom features minimalist decor, with lush curtains and a wooden bed giving the space a regal feel.

One of the highlights of the property is its organgery, which can be viewed and accessed from a sitting/dining area that features a TV, sofas, and round table. The glass extension measures at nearly 1200 square feet, providing magnificent views of the gardens and river.

The home library is a book-lover's dream, featuring floor-to-ceiling, wood shelves and leather armchairs.

With 75-foot steel and tile footbridge reaching across the river (which you can fish from, by the way), exploration is encouraged on this massive property.

Shop the Georgian home edit

Kate Bush's former home is listed with Giles Lawton and Charles Fraser Sampson at Strutt & Parker.

Shea McGee has long been creating country-inspired interiors with comfort and sophistication in mind. It can be a tricky balance designing elevated and sophisticated yet cozy and rustic interiors like Shea's, but with the launch of the new collection from Threshold designed w/Studio McGee – the designer's collaboration with Target, it's never been simpler.

Inspired by rural cottages and spring, the newest range in the collection is majorly inspiring us and providing us with lots of spring decor ideas. Filled with country-style pieces that are timeless and fun, a lasting, luxury look can now be achieved on a Target budget in time to give your home a spring refresh.

The line is filled with classic and trendy pieces that make designing a modern, cottage-style space both easy and enjoyable. Here's everything we are shopping from the Spring 2025 collection.

Shop our favorite pieces the Threshold designed with Studio McGee collection

From inviting hallways to plush and cozy living rooms, there's something here for any space in every home. Let's take a look at some of our favorite pieces from the country-inspired spring collection.

Shea McGee and Target have provided some much-needed home inspiration ahead of the new year. There are sophisticated and fun pieces for every room, so get creative and give your home a refreshing dose of spring.

Interior design trends come and go, but garden trends tend to be less ephemeral. These wider reaching movements in planting tend to indicate shifts in how we view sustainability and outdoor space as a whole. The maximalist borders trend is the perfect example of this, and Yellowstone actress Kelly Reilly's garden embodies the look.

Reilly shared her beautiful modern cottage garden in an Instagram post stating: 'Got to see my garden again for a minute . All the peonies are here and the climbing hydrangeas have climbed.' The image shows a lively space covered in purple and green. The distinction between house and garden is completely blurred by layers of plants. It's stunning, inviting, and perfectly on trend.

Thomas Rutter, master gardener and content editor on the gardens team at H&G states: 'Kelly Reilly's garden borders perfectly capture the trend for maximalist borders, which we expect to be a big focus for gardeners and garden designers in 2025. More is more, so cramming as many perennials, shrubs and bulbs into borders helps to achieve a look that is bountiful and generous.'

In addition to its obvious beauty, Reilly's garden has clear environmental benefits. Rutter states: 'As you can see, Reilly has opted to create a modern cottage garden, full of purple alliums, pale pink peonies and vibrant foxglove spires. This border is undeniably joyous and will prove popular not only with garden visitors but pollinators too.'

What's the secret to nailing the maximalist borders look in your own garden? 'Reilly cleverly opts to combine shrubs with tall perennial flowers that help to add interest at different levels in the borders,' says Rutter. He recommends: 'One tip I would advise is interplanting perennials and shrubs with late-summer annuals to extend your floral display. Think cosmos blooms or colorful zinnia, which will replace the allium and foxglove flowers that tend to fade towards mid-summer. Foxglove seeds are available to buy from Walmart.'

Beautiful flowers will always elevate an outdoor space, and the more there are the stronger the look will be. An abundance of flowers alternating heights with greenery is always a good idea, as demonstrated by Kelly Reilly.

If you're anything like me, Nancy Meyers' movies are somewhat of a comfort blanket. Especially at this time of the year, as the holidays loom on the horizon and we're all spending longer, colder evenings in front of the television (ideally, fireside with a cozy blanket and a glass of red a la Amanda Woods in The Holiday).

So beloved for the comfort and charm of her movie sets, a Nancy Meyers aesthetic home is something we all aspire to achieve isn't it? From the archetype Hamptons beach house in Something’s Gotta Give to a quaint snow-topped English cottage, no matter the location they all have a trademark sense of calm, character, and well, home.

Of course, ranking her movies for their interiors would be like asking us to pick between favorite children. So instead, I asked interior designers to do it for us. Here are the expert's favorite Nancy Meyers movie homes – and why.

The Best Movie Houses From Nancy Meyers Movies

Whether you’re drawn to rustic beams or white slip-covered sofas or walls upon walls of bookshelves, there’s a Nancy Meyers home to swoon over. So it’s no wonder that these homes have become a source of inspiration for designers and design enthusiasts like myself.

The genius of Nancy Meyers lies in her ability to create spaces that feel aspirational yet completely livable, somewhere you can truly feel at home. Here, designers dive into what makes these iconic homes so special – from the clever use of color to a layered, collected aesthetic, there is endless inspiration to be taken from Meyers' style to bring into your own home.

1. Rosehill Cottage, The Holiday

While Iris' cozy English cottage isn't immediately to Amanda's taste, the country escape in The Holiday is the epitome of a storybook cottage. Sure, it isn't palatial but it certainly makes up for that in warmth thanks to the low ceilings, teeny tiny claw-foot tub, and quaint kitchen.

'There is nothing more holiday coded than Rosehill Cottage from The Holiday,' says Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors. 'Nestled in the English countryside, every detail is so charmingly picturesque, it's seared into my brain. Especially the sweet blue kitchen.'

'The houses in The Holiday capture two dreamy yet contrasting styles: the cozy English countryside cottage and the sleek Los Angeles mansion,' explains Linda Hayslett of LH.Designs.

'Kate Winslet’s Rosehill Cottage is the epitome of rustic charm – quaint, intimate, and layered with textures that make you want to curl up with a cup of tea. It’s the kind of place that instantly feels like home, especially around the holidays.'

'On the other hand, Cameron Diaz’s modern L.A. home is open, minimal, and effortlessly chic, perfect for a getaway in the sun. Together, these spaces give a beautiful snapshot of how design can evoke such different moods and personalities – warm and traditional versus airy and luxurious. It’s a reminder that a well-designed home doesn’t just look good; it makes you feel something.'

2. Hamptons Beach House, Something's Gotta Give

'Nancy Meyers has given us some iconic movie homes, but if I really had to choose, the house in Something’s Gotta Give is unforgettable,' Linda continues.

'The classic Hamptons-style beach house with its airy, neutral palette and sophisticated coziness is the ultimate in relaxed luxury. There’s a timelessness to the space, from the open-concept living area to the perfectly styled kitchen, that feels both aspirational and attainable.'

'It conjures up that breezy, effortless elegance that’s perfect for any season but especially resonates around the holidays. The way the light plays through those big windows and onto the soft, neutral furnishings – it’s like a design hug! And yes, it’s influenced me in its approach to creating spaces that feel layered, personal, and irresistibly livable.'

Melissa Oholendt, of Oho Interiors, agrees. 'The Something's Gotta Give Hamptons beach house I think sparked bucket hats, white linen trousers, and cozy cardigan goals for us all,' she says of the Coastal Grandmother aesthetic coined by Meyers fans.

'My favorite design moment is the writing desk in Erica's Bedroom,' she explains. 'A place to stare out at the ocean in moments of writer's block, surrounded by stacks of books in the flanking built-ins, all swathed in Hampton's appropriate linens and woven woods. The whole house is something out of a vision board but the bedroom itself is truly what designers mean when we talk about creating a retreat.'

'It's a tie for me between the California oasis Meryl Streep lives in It's Complicated and the Hamptons beach house in Something's Gotta Give,' adds designer Kathy Kuo. 'Both are the epitome of laidback luxury – sophisticated while still feeling unique, livable, and full of personality and soul.'

3. Elizabeth's London Townhouse, The Parent Trap

In the 1998 movie The Parent Trap, when Hallie and Annie switch places, Hallie goes to visit her mother's London townhouse and instantly enchants us all with its beloved, grand, deep orange entryway and sweeping staircase.

Typical of Victorian homes, the ceilings are tall, and traditional style prevails while remaining as homey as any other Nancy Meyers movie.

'Elizabeth James' London Townhouse in Nancy Meyers' The Parent Trap will forever be one of my favorite earliest design-focused memories,' continues Melissa Oholendt.'

'The coral and gallery-wall filled entry, the window seat made for tea and pink wallpaper of the primary bedroom, the wood paneling of Hallie's grandfather's office? It's a classic, cozy, and livable even more than 25 years later.'

In total contrast, Annie lands in California and is greeted by her father's sprawling, ivy-covered Napa Valley vineyard and ranch house. Boasting a pool surrounded by rattan furnishings, large fireplaces, and a butter-yellow bedroom (very 2024), the two homes in The Parent Trap are enough to make you fall in love at any age.

4. Ben and Jules' Brownstones, The Intern

'I'm sure I'm in good company when I say that I've been taken by so many of the homes in Nancy Meyers' films; she is masterful at dialing in inviting interiors that reinforce place and character,' says Heather Menegat, studio director of Landed Interiors.

In the 2015 drama-meets-comedy The Intern starring Anne Hathaway and Robert De Niro, both characters – who work at a fashion start-up run by Hathaway's character Jules – live in traditional Brooklyn brownstone homes.

Living with her husband and young daughter, Hathaway's brownstone centers around the kitchen. The design features a marble fireplace, a mix of rustic and industrial style with plenty of open shelving and a large farmhouse sink. It's a space that feels alive.

'Ben's (Robert DeNiro) brownstone in The Intern is a standout for me – it feels embracing, cared for, and intentional,' Heather continues. The scenes in Ben’s home were actually filmed in a brownstone where a real couple have lived for over 30 years.

His home, in contrast to Jules', has character everywhere you look with an inviting and cozy feel. Plus, it's incredibly neat but as far from a bachelor pad as you can get thanks to standout pieces like a rustic farmhouse table as the kitchen island. It's a home that feels as dapper as it's owner.

'I think it plays an extraordinary role in communicating the life and history of a character who has strong boundaries at first but grows to show that, in his own words, he's "just a big bowl of mush".'

5. Spanish Ranch, It's Complicated

The charming Spanish-style home from It's Complicated exudes warmth and inviting charm thanks to its thoughtful color palette of warm neutrals along with pops of terracotta and navy with natural textures galore.

'I’ve always loved the home in It’s Complicated for its casual and effortless elegance - both in the interiors and intricate gardens,' says interior designer Wendy Labrum of Wendy Labrum Interiors. 'Rounded archways, tumbled stone floors, and an open, deconstructed kitchen takes center stage in many scenes. I aspire to be causally whipping up delicious chocolate croissants from scratch like this.'

'One of the consistent themes in all of the homes in Nancy Meyers' films is how utterly livable and non-fussy everything is and Meryl Streep's character's kitchen in It's Complicated is the pinnacle of this,' continues Melissa.

'A kitchen island with a marble top made for use and abuse and that you know looks better with the red wine stains and etches of family and friends gathering around,' she observes.

'The haphazard but somehow still so elegant stacks of dishes and serving ware displayed on open shelves for easy use and easy storage, the chef's range with an utterly utilitarian rangehood set-up but still so highly functional that you can't begrudge the loss of a design moment because the whole thing in combination feels like it would lose some of its charm if the range and hood had been more design-focused. It's a masterclass in design that is highly functional and completely non-precious.'

Alongside heartwarming, tear-jerking, rom-com storytelling sits just the most beautiful interiors to accompany the characters and the lives they lead in Meyers' cinematic worlds. And for that, we have Nancy to thank. Lucky for me, my homework is now to go and re-watch all these classic movies beloved by our interior design friends.

We all love to see inside other people's beautiful homes and in the world of design, there's only one thing more intriguing than a designer's own home, and that's a designer's own holiday home.

This beach cottage-style getaway in Manasquan, NJ, is the weekend retreat and holiday home of Manhattan-based interior designer Laura Krey, her husband and their young son. Laura took it on knowing that the cottage had been practically rebuilt from its 1950s foundations in 2014, and says she couldn't justify ripping everything out when it all still looked relatively new. So how did she get this special family home looking so good?

Take the tour, as Laura explains how creative thinking and some serious compromises, from every member of the family, were key to a sustainable redesign, and to the home's warm and inviting vibes.

Manhattan-based interior designer Laura had hoped that her long search for a family weekend home on the Jersey Shore would lead her to a major project.

But here's the first compromise: 'As much as I treated my husband as a design client, I couldn’t sell him on any property that required a complete gut renovation, so we compromised when we found our home' says Laura. 'It was built in 2014 and was therefore still relatively new,' says Laura. 'As a proponent of sustainable design, I couldn’t justify ripping everything out, so I had to make what I did touch, count!'

With that in mind, Laura's redesigned living room had to work with the space and layout she inherited, but since it lacked existing characterful features she decided to layer some in, starting with a fireplace update. 'I completely redid the fireplace, with a surround from Chesneys, and adding the custom millwork library,' says Laura. 'Our evenings are spent with a bevy of feet up on the custom ottoman covered in an Annabel Warp print fabric by Schumacher. Armchairs are from O’Henry House via John Rosselli.'

The room now has a warm, cozy vibe and is the perfect space to transition into fall and the cooler weather. 'This is a room that we spend a ton of time in, any season,' says Laura. 'The café curtain window treatments have been a great addition. They provide ground-level privacy, but we still enjoy the light. Every room needs a pedestal too! This one from Atelier Vime really completes the space.'

Laura's dining room ideas had to work in the context that this is an open plan dining, family room, and kitchen. Her starting point to give the space a much-needed refresh without gutting the space was to replace the existing sliding doors onto the garden.

That was an easy switch to justify since the old doors were broken and no longer fully serviceable. 'I installed my favorite, now trendy, but always timeless, steel doors from Atelier Domingue,' says the designer. 'This was a tricky room to design as it’s very rectilinear and needs to function for both our main dining and relaxing when we’re entertaining more than just us. A custom banquette, plaster chandelier, and terrazzo oval table allow for a large number of people to dine at the table. I worked with artisan Robert Sukrachand on the terrazzo table top. It’s made out of one entire piece of terrazzo and needed four people to install it!'

It was well worth the effort and the warm tones of the cane-backed dining chairs help to add another layer of texture to the space.

At the opposite side of the open plan family room is a relaxed sitting area.

'We use the house year-round, so I didn’t want it to scream beach house, but instead to have these fun, subtle nods to the marine world and coastal living,' says Laura. She decided to keep the existing shiplap, which fits the beach cottage aesthetic, but chose to refresh it with a soft gray-white paint. Warm, earthy shades and graphic contrasts are introduced with the wooden surfboard, patterned stools and the striking artwork by artist Margot Bergman. 'I’m an art historian prior to my design education and art always figures prominently in my designs,' says Laura. 'I particularly love art that challenges the aesthetic notion of what beauty is.'

The custom sectional, ottoman and stools are from Konekt Studio with fabric from Zak and Fox. The console table is from Casa Midy. Laura added Maya Romanoff wallpaper on the other walls.

While designer Laura couldn't do anything about the footprint of the house on its long, narrow plot, she did come up with ways to work around it, and to lean into it. 'The house is feels a bit like a brownstone to me in that it goes back a long way compared with the width,' she says. 'This allows for a lot of little design moments as you progress through the rectilinear layout. For instance, I created a home bar and buffet area on this 15th-century antique Spanish table in the hallway.'

To differentiate the stairway ideas from the first floor a plaster/lime wash textured finish extends the double height of the stairwell and second floor landing.

Another great tip to update and personalize a space without making structural changes is to use artwork. Laura purchased the pieces here, by different artists, from a non-profit organization, called Pocoapoco.

While most of the changes inside the house were decorative rather than structural, the backyard landscaping and pool house/garage received a complete overhaul, as Laura explains.

'The previous garage structure wasn’t winterized, and I ended up enlarging the footprint by an overall 9ft,' she says. 'The town’s permitting department told me I should have torn it down, but I chose to do it a harder, but slightly more environmentally friendly way. We now have a backyard with a variety of entertaining areas, plenty of seating and a big table for dining outdoors, my favorite!'

This is an area where designer Laura really has been able to create something very much of her choosing. 'Out of the renovation, we gained an outdoor shower and more utilitarian space in the garage, but also a studio,' she says. 'This space, while small, functions as pool cabana, extra guest quarters, and an art studio for projects that my son and I create. I didn’t want to design a typical pool cabana. Instead, I wanted with something both whimsical yet also refined.'

To achieve exactly that look, Laura clad the walls in whitewashed pine, with plaster sconces from Rose Uniacke. The subtle shine on the ceiling comes from Callidus Guild’s wallpaper, and the stools and fabric are from Soane. The rug is custom by Shore and the floor tiles are Concrete Collaborative. The counter skirt is Alice Sergeant via Temple Studio.

Besides the pool cabana and studio, the only other area of major works was on the second floor of the main home, which originally had five bedrooms and only two bathrooms, one of which was the en-suite in the primary bedroom. 'We needed more bathrooms,' says Laura. 'I had to get really creative with the design to make sure anything that might affect the structure made the most sense in terms of the overall use of the space. I created a Junior Suite by merging two small bedrooms and adding a bathroom and two walk-in closets.'

The primary bedroom ideas are 'an exercise in relaxation' adds Laura. Although the decor is simple and calm, Laura has brought an element of Manhattan sophistication to the room. The textured wallcovering also adds warmth to the scheme with its nuanced pink.

'I always wanted a canopy bed, so my drapery workroom and I customized a running line Michael Dawkins bed. The wallpaper and sconces are some of my favorite elements in this space.'

The wallpaper is an Aux Abris grasscloth via John Roselli, the sconces and shades are Soane, the nightstands are by Chelsea Textiles, and the rug is by Merida.

Why stick to neutral guest room ideas when you can really get imaginative with them? That's certainly designer Laura's point of view, especially since she was looking to introduce more personality into the house as a whole. A variety of blues and reds make this space extra welcoming and warm.

'I love spoiling guests and like to have fun with guest rooms,' says Laura, who chose Quadrille wallpaper and Elizabeth Eakins drapery.

The rug and bed are from Serena & Lily. The nightstands are from Made Goods, with Vaughan lamps and tribal shades. The bedding is by Matouk with a John Robshaw vintage sari pillow, which really adds to the curated look.

When Laura is designing homes, she likes everyone – kids and dogs included – to get on board. 'I like to give clients’ children some design agency in their kids rooms, mine included,' she says. 'My 13-year-old son's request was for Mets’ colors. I couldn’t bring myself to incorporate the exact Mets blue, but there’s a pop of orange in the custom bookshelves!'

Now that's a noble and stylish compromise if ever there was one.

Interior design: Laura Krey Design
Photographs: Manuel Rodriguez
Styling: Benjamin Reynaert

As soon as autumn hits we all dream of escaping to a cosy cottage, curling up by a fire, cocooned in many layers of knitwear with a hot drink never far away. It’s the reason it’s an interior style that’s so coveted – that effortlessly relaxed, incredibly inviting feeling to a home that we all long to create, especially at this time of year.

And you needn’t live in an actual cottage in the countryside to recreate this aesthetic, it’s a style that can be adapted to suit any home, anywhere. Furniture Village’s new autumn collection is perfect for bringing a touch of the cosy cottage feel into your rooms, it’s characterful, subtly colourful, filled with whimsical patterns and classic shapes.

No one knows and loves this timeless look more than interior stylist Pippa Blenkinsop who spends her days creating this at-ease style in other people’s homes and her own country cottage. We spoke with her about how to create a cosy cottage appeal, no matter where you live, with the help of Furniture Village’s new autumn collection.

What does the cosy cottage style look and feel like to you?

Country cottage style is a look which is close to my heart. As a child, I was fortunate enough to grow up in a chocolate-box thatched cottage in the Cotswolds and I now live in a Victorian cottage nearby which I’m slowly turning into a cosy sanctuary. As an interior stylist and journalist, I’ve styled and written about countless charming cottages over the years and I never fail to be captivated by their nostalgic, rustic charm.

Cottage style isn’t just about creating a look, it’s about a feel. For me, the appeal of the look centres around its relaxed, lived-in feel and effortless blend of function, comfort and quirkiness. Walking into a country cottage is like receiving a big hug, you instantly feel at home and ready to kick your feet up. Aesthetically natural materials abound, along with cosy, tactile textures. Layers of patterned fabrics hark back to simpler times, while carefully curated vintage collectables, ceramics and artwork bring unique personality and character.

Why do you think this is such a coveted style and timeless trend?

The beauty of the cosy cottage style is that it’s a look that feels as if it’s evolved organically over time. There are no strict design rules - nothing is too ‘matchy’ and comfort takes the lead. At the heart of the look are high quality, functional pieces of furniture modelled on traditional designs which set the tone for a timeless aesthetic. Practical, well-made pieces which combine function and style form the foundation of the look. These pieces can be styled with a range of different accessories whatever your taste.

What are your tips for bringing the cosy cottage look into any home?

Key to capturing a cosy cottage look is selecting high-quality furnishings in classic designs which perfectly blend comfort and function - these will stand the test of time and will provide a solid foundation on which to build your look. Think sofas, upholstered seating and bed frames that capture the elegance of traditional/period designs with sumptuous curves and deep buttoning.

A fresh take on a heritage piece, the Parker Knoll Modern Classics Hyde Park sofa combines an elegant, curved silhouette and scroll arms with deep cushions for sink-in comfort and makes an ideal centrepiece for a living room with a nod to heritage style. A deep-pile petrol blue chenille fabric will bring extra elegance and luxury to the piece, which just beckons you to curl up.

Style the Parker Knoll Modern Classics Hyde Park sofa and Javier ottoman bed with textiles in a mix prints for a fun vintage look. Combine country staples like candy stripes, checks and tickings with ditsy florals and patchwork along with plenty of ruffles and frills for extra softness and fun. These prints can also be used over curtains and fabric Roman blinds to enhance the cosy, inviting feel of a room.

Robust tables and storage with natural wood finishes that pay homage to the rural surroundings will ensure your interiors have enduring appeal. At the heart of every home is a practical kitchen or dining table - this is where meals are shared, plans are hatched and happy memories are made.

Investing in a simple yet classic timber design such as the Hamilton Rectangular extendable table with its grey-washed American oak frame and oak veneer top is a versatile choice that will stand the test of time. Paired with the Denim Button-back dining chairs it will make a comfy and elegant setting for meals, plus it can also extend to accommodate extra dinner guests. Style up the table with woven placemats and French-style linen runners and napkins. An eclectic mix of vintage blue and white china paired with Midcentury-style vases brings fun and personality.

Materials are key - choose cosy textural fabrics like luxurious velvets, deep-pile chenilles, woven wools and relaxed linens. A palette of earthy neutrals and deep navy blues peppered with pops of rich berry red offers a wonderful blend of sophistication and warmth and is a scheme which will look as at home in a townhouse as it will in a country home, plus these shades pair well with natural materials that are a hallmark of the cottage look.

Alongside furniture lighting plays a pivotal role in cosy cottage style. Having lots of light sources as part of a layered lighting scheme is essential for achieving that warm, inviting mood. Introduce plenty of table and floor lamps alongside overhead lighting and wall lights to provide flexible ambient lighting. Oversized table lamps such as Furniture Village’s Delany Urn table lamp and Acanthus table lamp work particularly well on console tables in living rooms and hallways.

Layers of patterned fabrics, soft furnishings and tactile textures are a hallmark of the cosy cottage look and when it comes to flooring I generally prefer rugs on hard floors to fitted carpets. Integral to the charm of cottages is their wealth of characterful original features like beautiful solid wood floors, exposed beams and stone walls, so it's best to show these off wherever possible. If you have a beautiful wood floor, rugs are the way to go - don’t cover them with fitted carpet.

Rugs bring cosiness while still keeping beautiful wood floors visible. Pattern-wise choose something with a gentle geometric design such as the Maywood rug that will bring subtle interest without taking away from the prized architectural features in a room. Patterned rugs are also wonderfully practical for hiding stains and wear and tear.

How would you recommend blending the cosy cottage style with other styles?

The great thing about cosy cottage style is its ability to effortlessly combine old and new. Don’t be afraid to mix furniture in different styles, and which reference different design eras - this all adds to the eclectic charm and the homely feel.

Mid century-style wooden coffee, consoles and tables with tapered legs such as Furniture Village’s Stockholm collection can be set against elegant, scroll-armed sofas for a sense of playfulness and fun. Alternatively, in a bedroom, try teaming a luxurious upholstered bed frame like the Javier ottoman with contemporary, sleek side tables for a fresh twist on a traditional look.

Which colours do you think work best with a cosy cottage aesthetic?

When it comes to colour schemes for cottage-style interiors I like to go for neutral walls and then to introduce colour through furniture, artwork and accessories, this helps the architecture take the lead. I’m also a huge fan of original art and ceramics, so a neutral canvas helps these shine. That said, a boot room or a bathroom in a vibrant shade can bring a fun element of surprise.

For a cottage-friendly palette you can't go wrong by looking to nature with its myriad greens and blues as these will bring the beauty of the outside in and complement the warmth of weathered wood and stone so prevalent in cottages. However, don’t be afraid to add in vibrant accents.

Blues and neutrals are a go-to for capturing the look. From duck eggs to denim and rich navy tones, blues are versatile and timeless and pair beautifully with the warm, earthy greens and neutral tones of a country landscape. Choosing sofas and upholstery in rich blues can really help ground a neutral space and adds an air of sophistication. Adding in deep berry tones through cushions and lampshades will enliven the scheme - I always think you need at least three colours to bring depth to a space.

Which are your favourite pieces from the Furniture Village Cosy Cottage collection and how would you recommend to style them?

Lista Storage Desk - This desk is perfect for me. My house is small and I work from home so I don’t have space for a dedicated home office, instead, I’ve carved out a corner of the living room. As my workspace occupies part of our living space I need a desk which is stylish and discreet and the Stockholm desk is just that, plus it has handy added storage for hiding away paperwork. I love the idea of styling it with pops of red for an uplifting feel. This retro anglepoise-style lamp and frilly candy-striped cushion are perfect for adding a touch of fun to the practical space.

Javier Ottoman bed - For me the Javier bed is a wonderfully versatile and cosy piece which blends style with function. Firstly, as space is at a premium in my house the extra under-bed-storage would be a god-send. Also, if you live in an older property, as I do, you’re constantly thinking of ways to battle the drafts and dial up the cosiness. Fabrics are key to this, so an upholstered bed frame is a great solution. The upholstered headboard is ideal for lazy weekend lounging with coffee and papers or hunkering down in the evening with a good book. The shape has a subtle nod to sleigh bed designs and features elegant curved side panels which create a gentle cocooning feel. This clever design feature makes the bed perfect for a draughty cottage or a lofty Georgian room where you want to feel snug and enclosed.

Delaney Urn Table Lamp - I feel this lamp is a timeless piece for interiors that you’d bring with you from home to home as it would work well with multiple looks, from a rustic cottage or farmhouse to a smart townhouse. The natural wood finish nestles effortlessly into any scheme and brings a touch of the outdoors in. I also adore its chunky, robust size - it’s functional but also makes a lovely decorative piece in its own right. It’s often a misconception that you need to go for small pieces when decorating cottages, sometimes decorating with too many small pieces can make spaces feel cluttered - in fact, often less is more. Choosing larger, slightly oversized pieces displays a level of confidence with interior decorating and limiting accessories to a few bold, sculptural pieces can really make an impact.

Shop the cosy cottage trend at Furniture Village

Zooey Deschanel is known for coloring outside the lines, and the same applies to her choice of flowers. An Instagram post reveals the bold, purple roses in Deschanel and her husband, Johnathan Scott's garden. Even though we're creeping into fall, the flowers look as full and vibrant as ever.

Their refreshing rose planting is a masterclass in cottage garden ideas. The bold and romantic flowers lend an unexpected warmth to the outdoor space. They sit in perfect opposition to the rich green of the surrounding plants and perfectly complement the more conventional pink and yellow roses. Next to the sweet white gazebo in the couple's backyard, it creates the feel of a traditional English garden in the middle of California.

The choice of purple plants or another expected shade is a great way to maintain a classic feel while infusing personality. Though Deschanel has planted roses, one of the most beloved plants, the purple feels distinctly her. Try taking inspiration from a signature color, your favorite item of clothing, or go to the plant center and see what strikes your fancy. There's more than just one way to design a beautiful garden, and an unorthodox pop of color is a fun way to make it more interesting.

Further, her plant choice is ideal for emphasizing the English garden feel of her outdoor space. Thom Rutter, master gardener and gardens content editor at Homes & Gardens states: 'Roses are a classic cottage garden plant. Whether you opt to grow miniature roses, climbing roses or shrub roses, these romantic blooms are always an impactful addition to any yard.'

If you choose to go the way of Deshchanel and plant roses, care is just as important as deciding on the right plants. First, consider the right place to plant your roses. Rutter advises: 'In terms of growing roses, always provide as much sunshine as possible, ideally in a spot with 6-8 hours of direct sun and preferably in a sheltered corner of the yard.' We can see this in Deschanel's garden, where one of the sunniest spots in the space has been chosen to display her plants.

Pruning is also of utmost importance in rose care. Rutter suggests: 'Through the spring and summer, deadheading roses is an essential garden task that will prolong the floral display. As soon as the petals fade and fall, simply snip the stem to prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. If you continue deadheading during the growing season, blooms will keep coming, even late into the season, as Zooey Deschanel shows.' Flowers all year round? Yes please!

When it comes to planting your own garden, Deschanel's outdoor space is a reminder to plant to the beat of your own drummer. Don't be scared of unexpected planting combinations, and don't be nervous to bring in non-traditional colors, even if you are going for a more traditional look.

For more rose pruning essentials, Rutter also recommends these pieces below.

Gardening is an art, and a true artist uses ever color in the rainbow. Just don't forget to plant intelligently, prune, and garden with your heart.

In interior design, we're no stranger to the appeal of traditional cottage interiors, with farmhouse and Cottagecore aesthetics at the forefront of trends over the last few years. But for those of you looking to combine that lived-in charm with some more modern sensibilities – we have some good news for you.

It's time to get to know modern cottage style. An interior design style that everyone needs to know about. And while this isn't anything new (designers have been playing with mix-and-match, transitional design for years), it's really a trend that has come into its own of late.

Offering a fresh twist on the cozy, rustic nature of cottage homes with sleek and contemporary touches, the modern cottage style strikes the perfect balance between old and new. Here, interior designers explain why they love it so.

What Is Modern Cottage Style?

'Modern Cottage Style strikes a perfect balance between cozy, comfort, and sleek sophistication,' explains Kristen Ekeland of Studio Gild. 'It embraces the warmth and charm of traditional cottage elements while incorporating clean lines and contemporary design features.'

This design aesthetic marries together rustic with minimalism, with no space for maximalism here. It’s an approach that invites warmth into the home while maintaining an airy, uncluttered feel that nods to contemporary design.

'Right now at Montana Labelle Design, we are embracing modern cottage style in a major way,' says founder Montana. 'Gone are the days of dark wood cabins with dimly lit interiors. We're blowing off those old cobwebs for a new style and are embracing the cozy ambiance of a bright and fresh country home with a newfound aesthetic appeal.'

Rather than heavy, ornate furniture or an abundance of Cottagecore-style patterns and prints, the modern take on cottage interiors leans into clean lines, subtle textures, and more functional pieces. The key is to embrace simplicity, paring things back and allowing pieces to breathe without sacrificing comfort.

How To Nail Modern Cottage Style In Your Home

1. Stick to cool toned neutrals

A hallmark of the modern cottage style is its calming palette, and while warm neutrals have dominated schemes this year, cool-toned neutrals take center stage here. Think soft whites, muted grays, and hints of black or blue, which provide a canvas for layering.

'A neutral color palette, often dominated by whites, creams, and soft grays, serves as the backdrop for modern cottage style,' adds Kristen Ekeland, designer of the living room above. 'Pops of color, introduced through accessories, artwork, and textiles, add vibrancy and personality to the space,' she advises.

'I'm obsessed with this look,' adds designer Bethany Adams. 'For me, it's all about clean wood paneling on walls and ceilings, stone floors, and green tiled surfaces. Whether you're at the lake, the beach, or the mountains, there's nowhere this style can't fit right in. Furnishings are low-slung and casual but still modern and organic. Open shelving filled with hand-made mugs and bowls from the local potters guild is more the vibe. Sand, dirt, and dogs are at home in this kind of space so steer clear of anything white or too precious. This is not Nancy Meyers' house.'

2. Mix-and-match eras and design styles

'Cottagecore is showing no sign of going anywhere – it is, however, evolving and shifting year over year. And this year, it's all about modern cottage style,' notes famed interior designer Kathy Kuo.

Modern cottage style thrives on contrasts. One of the most charming approaches is its ability to seamlessly mix pieces from different eras and design aesthetics to create a space that feels layered and curated. Don’t be afraid to bring in unexpected elements, like the vintage rug in the white kitchen seen above or the rustic kitchen island.

'This means mixing some modern silhouettes and color pops in with classic cottage elements like weathered wood, floral prints, and traditional motifs,' says Kathy. 'Try contrasting a couple of mid-century pieces in and amongst your antique finds, or adding modern decor pieces into a shelf styling moment alongside more quaint and English countryside-inspired pieces. In short, think of modernism as a contrast to traditional cottage style, the same way you think of contrasting colors or textures.'

3. Preserve as many original features as possible

'Don't view your home as having to go down the clichéd cottage route decor-wise,' suggests designer Benji Lewis. 'Instead, retain as much character detail as possible like ceiling beams, a fireplace, original wooden or flagstone floors, or paneling but use a strong color on the walls or showcase large contemporary or mid-century artwork to provide that contrast.'

Original features are the heart of a cottage. They tell the story of the home’s past so to embrace the modern cottage style, you should look to showcase these features and blend them with newer, more functional elements. For example, old wooden beams can be left exposed to contrast with contemporary furniture, or an antique mantel can be updated with sleek, contemporary decor.

'These elements not only add texture and depth to a space but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels both rustic and refined,' adds Kristen Ekeland. 'Antique furniture and decor items are juxtaposed with contemporary designs, creating a unique and eclectic aesthetic that feels both timeless and current.'

4. Focus on comfort

Just like in a traditional cottage or farmhouse, the more modern iteration still prioritizes creating a warm, welcoming, and comfortable ambiance. Sure, while sleek lines and simplicity are part of the look, every room still wants to invite relaxation.

Take the bedroom by Studio Gild seen above, the original floorboards, vintage rug, and rustic decor pieces are complimented with a contemporary bed frame, linens, and black light fixture. Focus on soft fabrics like linen and wool, and ensure you have plenty of cushions, throws, and soft lighting.

'Modern cottage design emphasizes creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a retreat from the hectic pace of everyday life,' says Montana Labelle. 'This focus on comfort is essential for mental well-being, providing a space where people can unwind and relax. The combination of modern elements with traditional cottage charm creates a unique aesthetic that is both stylish and timeless.'

With neutral tones, natural materials, and curated vintage pieces, a modern cottage strikes the perfect balance between old and new, creating spaces that feel both timeless and inviting. Whether you’re drawn to pared-back neutrals, a mix of old and new, or the importance of comfort, the beauty of this style lies in its versatility and contrast.

As a fashion fan (and with a previous career in fashion under my belt), an interiors-meets-fashion collaboration is my kryptonite. So when I saw the teasers for the McGee & Co x Loeffler Randall collaboration starting to drop all over social media in the last few weeks I was suitably intrigued.

Now that it has finally launched – well, consider me fallen hook, line, and sinker. Dropping just as New York Fashion Week kicks off, this collection captures founders Shea McGee's (of Studio McGee and McGee & Co) and Jessie Randall's (of Loeffler Randall) shared love of hosting, fashion, and home design. It's truly a partnership born of shared admiration, and the results are here to prove it.

You'll already be familiar with Shea McGee's timeless, subtle, coveted design style but for those who are new to Loeffler Randall, there are just a few things you need to know. New York-based, this female-founded brand's designs are fanciful in all the best ways. Think ruffles, scalloped, florals, and playful Cottagecore-inspired aesthetics. Combined with McGee & Co's iconic style and a desire to create a collection worthy of the most decadent tabletop tastemakers, it truly is a hostess's dream come true.

So where did it all begin? With a dress, of course.

'I always joke that I'd love to wear a tablecloth, and this is that moment!' says Shea in a behind-the-scenes video, where she wears the dress that sparked the inspiration behind the entire collection.

Jessie Randall explains: 'The Gardenia Ruffle Tablecloth in this collection was inspired by a beautiful fabric that we have in our Loeffler Randall ready-to-wear collection. I have never seen a plaid woven in with a motif like a flower before, and so it was just such a special textile that we decided to use it for the tablecloth.'

Jessie sent Shea some photographs of how she likes to lay her table, filled with woven textures and neutral ceramics, to which Shea said 'This is speaking my love language' and they started to bring the vision together. They picked the gingham print first and evolved the collection to include soft neutrals, greens, browns, scallops, ruffles, and broderie details throughout that work together to create one harmonious, layered table.

'I love how versatile this collection is,' says Jessie, whose favorite piece from the collection is the Tabitha Butter Dish with its twisted handle. 'You can use it [the collection] year-round, you can dress it up, you can layer it – it feels special, but not over-done. Seeing it all together blew me away,' she says.

Shea also wanted to create a user-friendly collection thanks to their soft approach to color. 'It allows you to pair it, and mix and match – we even coordinated with textiles, seat cushions, and pillows with scalloped edges.'

'Every time that we come out with McGee & Co products, I take a few for myself, but with this [collaboration], I've asked them to save one of every piece for me,' gushed Shea. 'One of the many things I love about Loeffler Randall is their attention to unique, expressive details. There’s so much inspiration to be found in fashion that applies to interior details, as well.'

Shop The McGee & Co x Loeffler Randall Collaboration

Here's our edit of the most swoon-worthy goods from the collection – from scalloped dinnerware to decadent centerpieces and gingham-clad, ruffle trimmed pillows.

'All these little different details that work so well together and that is what happens with the table, you can just layer everything together and it works beautifully or you can use it on its own,' says Jessie Randall on how to shop and layer the collection. You can go all in or shop just a few pieces to elevate your existing tableware to add some McGee & Co x Loeffler Randall charm.

'Cottage in the City' sums up the Edwardian terraced home of Jules O’Carroll, co-founder with Nancy Parker of Parker & Jules. The brand’s signature printed textiles and wallpapers embrace timeless patterns that are infused with modern color, so it’s no surprise that Jules celebrates them in her west London house with an alluring, verging-on-the-maximalist, country-style interior.

The house's period charm won over Jules and her husband Dero when they first viewed it. ‘Everything was white, but there was still a coziness to it,’ says Jules. ‘It hadn’t been hugely modernized and a lot of the features were still there.

Jules continues, 'Our house in the country is very modern, so to have something that was period and to be able to work with the architecture and create a charming and quirky look was very appealing.'

The interior required ‘a decorative overhaul’ rather than structural work. ‘We kept the layout throughout and worked with it,’ explains Jules. ‘We had a house renovation before that took about 10 years of our lives. I wanted this house to work for us, rather than us work for it.’

The greatest upheaval came with replacing the bathrooms and installing air-conditioning in the main bedrooms and sitting room. A combined pantry and utility was also built. Particular attention was paid to the floors, with the hall tackled first.

‘I wanted to replace the hall tiles because they set the tone and it was a 1980s black and white scheme that wasn’t in keeping with the property,’ explains Jules. ‘We chose bold patterned tiles as the space needed to be colorful.’

Diamonds were painted on the kitchen floor to inject character. ‘I love how the space now feels more unified and connected,’ says Jules. Since working with color and pattern is her bread and butter, she was confident in what she wanted to be surrounded by.

The biscuit-hued walls throughout the rooms downstairs provide a warm backdrop against the carefully curated bold hues. ‘My whole concept was this mixture of ugly and pretty colors, so we had a palette range that incorporated a khaki green, lilac, and an almost granny reddy-pink, but those three colors on repeat hold things together through the interior.’

The kitchen stands out for its colorful eclectic cottage decor. Fresh green cabinetry sings against the diamond-painted floor, emerald zellige tiles, rich brown banquette, and punchy reds of the kitchen chairs. ‘The colors are slightly unexpected.'

I wanted to try things out because your home is your laboratory,’ says Jules. The utility in the side return features dark purple cupboards and Parker & Jules Strawberry Fields on the curtain fabric and pantry wallpaper. ‘The space is playful, fun and colorful,’ says Jules. ‘The house stretched my color palette.’

Jules relished the opportunity to incorporate much-loved fabrics, of course. ‘There were moments where I got to use favorite fabrics that I’d lusted after,’ she says. One of these was the Claremont Tree of Life fabric in the sitting room, where Jules designed a much more sophisticated and grown-up space.

Lime paint gives the walls and ceiling depth, while earthy khaki and saffron tones were introduced. ‘The shades are lighter in the bigger main room, then as you retreat to the smaller TV area behind with its modern wrap-around sofa, everything is a little more jewel box and cozy.’

Upstairs, the main bedroom has a cozy and eclectic feel. ‘The pink paint on the wardrobes is one we used repeatedly throughout the house,’ says Jules. She teamed it with a Parker & Jules wallpaper and a gold fabric by Jennifer Shorto used in reverse on the headboard. ‘I wanted something that was almost bad taste so it wasn’t too “granny’s favorite bedroom”!’

Mid-century pieces inject a modern touch. A maximalist look is created throughout the house with layers of fabrics, artwork, and rugs. ‘It’s the layering that makes the place feel like a home,’ says Jules. ‘The look is about mixing the charming and the unexpected with moments of grown-up sophistication so there are elements of surprise as you walk through the house.'

Meet the designer

The Parker & Jules co-founder shares her style inspiration

BIGGEST INDULGENCE
Our bathroom.

GREATEST SUCCESS
The kitchen, which felt narrow and disconnected. It’s now really welcoming and a proper hang-out space.

SMALL CHANGE, BIG IMPACT
The patterned hall floor tiles in the entry.

GO-TO COLOR
Light bronze green – an ‘ugly color’ to work against pretty colors.

YOUR STYLE IN THREE WORDS
Colorful, layered, confident.

SECRET ADDRESS
Nushka on Golborne Road, which sells lovely vintage textiles.

I KNOW I’M A CREATIVE BECAUSE...
I lie awake, doing mental jigsaws in color and pattern!

HOME MAKES ME FEEL
Happy.

WHAT’S NEXT
Parker & Jules is five years old and to celebrate this we have evolved our color palette.

When you're searching for charming kitchen inspiration, you've probably come across the cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic. Filled with rustic charm, a collected feel, and unique appeal, it's no surprise it's one of the most coveted kitchen aesthetics.

One of the most timeless design styles, cottage kitchen ideas are about adding a charming and somewhat collected feel to your scheme. While living in an actual cottage makes creating a kitchen of the aesthetic much easier, several design cues can be introduced to kitchen ideas in all styles of homes.

So, how can you add the cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic to your home? Take a look at these five spaces that prove cottage style has a place in any kitchen – and find out exactly how the designers created them.

How to nail the cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic in any home

Creating a cozy kitchen is key to ensuring your space is one you enjoy spending time in – and not just for cooking. The cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic blends homey appeal with characterful schemes – and these spaces prove it.

1. An unfitted cozy cottage kitchen

Unfitted kitchens are trending right now, and for good reason. They add a seriously eclectic vibe while also giving the option to create a bespoke design that fits all the awkward corners of your kitchen – something that's very typical of cottage kitchens. And this scheme proves just how aesthetic this style of kitchen can look.

'We designed an unfitted kitchen along the back wall of this small stables in the grounds of the main house. Antique finds like the glass-fronted cabinet, as well as natural materials, can help bring a touch of this traditional design aesthetic into a home,' says interior designer Anna Haines, who created this cozy cottage kitchen.

The smaller details are also crucial to create a cottage feel in your kitchen. 'A butler's sink is both utilitarian and characterful, and plays nicely into giving a space a lived-in feel, as does a skirted cabinet or sink front, which adds softness and charm,’ she adds.

2. A quirky corner sink in a cottage style kitchen

Your kitchen doesn't need to look like it's come straight out of a quirky cottage to embrace the style. Think about the features that feel core to the aesthetic, and how you can introduce them into your scheme.

'For me, the appeal of cottage style is that it is less formal and precious. My goals for introducing cottage style to a design are making the space functional, laid back, and most certainly charming and playful,' says Katherine Quigley, design director at Chenault James Interiors.

'Here I embraced the quirks of a small space to include a corner sink and utilized butcher's block countertops and open shelving for a casual feel that blends form and function. My must-haves for cottage style are vintage accessories like this brass and ceramic hand-towel rod and adding foliage for easy color and texture,' she explains.

3. A cottage kitchen that embraces homey comforts

The coziness of cottage kitchens can come from many features. Perhaps it's low ceilings, warm wood textures, or additional soft textures introduced around the space. And whatever the style or size of your kitchen, some of these things can easily be brought in.

In this cottage kitchen designed by Benji Lewis, the ceiling became the focus to create a cozier feel. 'An old fashioned ceiling mounted clothes maid is integral for creating an idyllic cozy cottage look. A couple of pillowcases and some tea towels neatly arranged can even be left on the rack when visitors come over,' he says.

As well as these more decorative details, other more permanent features are core to creating the cozy cottage feel in this space. 'The traditional range cooker is a lovely thing – perfect for leaning against on a chilly evening as well as cooking,' Benji adds.

4. A cozy blend of old and new in a more spacious cottage kitchen

You might be wondering if this cozier style can be introduced to a larger, perhaps more fitted-style kitchen, and it absolutely can. 'Creating a cozy kitchen aesthetic is all about the details,' says Stephanie Perez O’Boyle, founder and principal at Stephanie Perez Studio.

'A mix of old and new, layering warm, natural materials, and introducing color and unique pieces will help to bring this feeling alive. In this kitchen, we contrasted all-white cabinetry with a wood farmhouse table for an island and bold colors like the green marble floors,' she explains.

Decorating with vintage and antique pieces was key to creating that eclectic, layered element so typical of cottage-style kitchens. 'Heirloom, antique pieces that tell a story are a must-have when trying to create a lived-in feeling, so the blue breakfast table was a perfect way to balance out the space,' she adds.

'I left it in its original condition and you’ll see many nicks and patina that add to its charm. We also created a dining nook with a custom banquette and scalloped skirt, which instantly creates a whimsical and inviting corner in the space.'

5. A cottage kitchen with a dining table at the center

One common theme you'll see in cottage kitchens is that they often have a beautiful farmhouse table at the center, rather than a kitchen island. This instantly makes the kitchen the heart of the home – the place where the whole family gathers and spends time together, instantly adding that cozy feel.

While it might not be the most functional option to forgo an island for a table in some kitchens, you can still create the aesthetic. Instead of luxurious stone kitchen countertop ideas, opt for a wooden or butcher's block style finish instead.

Equally, if you have the space, having an island and a dining table gives you the best of both worlds. There are also lots of kitchen island seating ideas that blend a classic island with a more traditional dining table.

With a few thoughtful design decisions and decorative additions, you really can create the cozy cottage aesthetic in any space. Whether you accessorize with vintage decor or add cottage-style appliances, there's something here to inspire every scheme.

Rustic and inviting, nothing quite compares to the allure of the European cottage-style trend. Though this aesthetic has been flooding our Instagram feeds for the past few months, this interior design style is a classic and one of the most enduring looks too.

Naturally, individual European destinations take their unique approach to this provincial-esque aesthetic, and this is all part of the charm. Whether a French coastal home or quaint cottage on the outskirts of Brussels, or beyond, the quirks of each wonderful destination shine through.

The European cottage-style appeal

European cottage-style interiors are synonymous with nostalgia for travel and discovery, it's clear why we are so enthusiastic to recreate these rustic spaces in our own homes. 'I believe that people are drawn to European cottage styles for their timeless appeal and the sense of history they embody,' says the Brussels-based interior designer, Victoria Maria.

'Each region offers a unique take on the cottage aesthetic, from the cozy, weathered charm of a European countryside cottage to the bright, airy feel of a Mediterranean retreat.' Designed for comfort and 'often reminding us of simpler times,' a European cottage is thoughtful but not overly preened.

To create this coveted look in your own home, here are some of the key features that define heritage European cottage-style interiors, from designers who are dotted around Europe and beyond...

1. There is juxstaposition

We begin in what is actually a chateau, in a project named Valentine by Victoria Maria. The space is a masterclass in balancing heritage character and modernity.

'I relate the European cottage aesthetic to a harmonious blend of rustic charm and refined elegance,' continues Victoria. 'Some key elements include exposed wooden beams, as seen in my Valentine project (above), natural stone floors, and antique furniture pieces that tell a story.'

There is an art even to styling antiques, and keeping a fresh neutral canvas leaves room to add more tactile interest elsewhere, without making the space feel dated or over the top. 'When using muted color palettes, such as soft creams and earthy tones, a serene and welcoming environment is created,' continues the designer. Having a consistent color palette that runs throughout the home means that lighting fixtures and other accents can shine a little brighter.

'Textures also play a significant role, with woven rugs, linen fabrics, and hand-crafted ceramics adding depth and warmth to the space.'

The goal is that unique pieces come together as if by chance rather than look and feel forced. 'Balancing rustic and modern styles requires a thoughtful approach to ensure cohesion rather than clash. I like to start with a neutral base, which provides a clean canvas to layer different elements. Integrating sleek, contemporary furniture with rustic architectural features like exposed beams or stone walls creates an interesting juxtaposition.'

2. Objects tell an interesting story

Much like when creating a provincial-style home, a typical European cottage will proudly display artisanal items that have a unique connection with the region.

You will never be too far from a thrilling flea market in Europe, especially when visiting France or Italy, and this is the perfect place to pick up interesting items that bring the cottage aesthetic to life. 'Scour your local flea market or junk shops for goodies to personalize your rustic retreat with locally made wares – ceramics, textiles and artworks that depict scenes of local interest,' says interior designer Benji Lewis whose buffet is adorned with such exciting pieces. Benji notes how a variety of finishes and shapes can add to a balanced but still wonderfully eclectic display.

'Get inspired by nature with your textures; Moroccan Berber wool rugs, linen drapery, bashed-up leather.'

3. Let it look 'undone'

A gorgeous approach to wholeheartedly achieve French country style interiors is indeed to give in to a slightly unpolished feel.

'The charm of French cottage style is in its undone-ness,' continues Benji. 'I really worry when people renovate because it’s very easy to make things overly posh and in so doing you run the risk of destroying or removing the charm.'

Mismatched crockery in the pantry – all very much on display – and more to imbue pretty, modern rustic decor is a surefire way to achieve the European Cottage-style look at home.

4. Embrace the outdoors and enhance natural light

Drawing inspiration from the region will help create a balanced finish that does not look overworked or out of place. 'The charm derived from its countryside location is central,' shares Studio MHNA. 'Additionally, it's the harmonious blend of authenticity—through the use of natural materials—and a very free-spirited creativity.'

Especially in Scandi-style homes, cottages are rustic but still modern with clean lines, an airy finish, and playful character. Christina Richardson is a Swedish interior designer and shares some tips from a former project that involved transforming a run-down little shack into a cozy Scandi cottage. 'To get the look you need to work with the natural light and warm the space up with texture and natural woods,' shares the designer. 'We took an old table and chairs from her grandparents and used alkali to remove the paint and after that we just used linseed oil to get that soft warm wood feel.'

For a welcoming and cheery finish, Christina counteracted woods and neutrals with something more wild. 'In the tiny kitchen, we chose a green slab cabinet from IKEA, stark lines, and a light and very Scandi birch wood countertop. We balanced the strictness in the kitchen out with a whimsical wallpaper from Cole&Son to create some visual interest and it is always a conversation starter every time new guests arrive.'

Remember still that the aesthetic, be it of a modern farmhouse or cottage, will be made all the more beautiful if it is practical...

'Having furniture, wallpaper and everything else doing double duty, like this wallpaper acting as a piece of art, is very Scandi cottage because they are usually small and everything has to have at least one function or two or three,' continues Christina.

5. Materials are enduring and exude 'Old World Charm'

Preserving beautifully rustic materials is a key element of the European cottage look, and if you are renovating, nod to natural stones for longevity.

'In our designs you'll find the use of classic, timeless materials to give an old world feel to our spaces,' says designer Holly Heffinger. 'The use of natural stones, wood tones and antiques help instantly bring warmth and character to a space. Many people are going with synthetic surfaces for durability and performance. There’s nothing wrong with these products, but we believe natural materials are more beautiful than any synthetic product on the market. Plus, they only get better with age.'

From Carrara marble to Italian Cotto floors, there's a reason why these still punctuate hidden gems and cottages you might stumble upon when on your travels... 'All across Europe, you’ll find marbles that have withstood thousands of years of wear and they are arguably more beautiful today than they were when they were first installed. By using these materials in our designs, we believe that our spaces only get better with age.'

Though the European cottage-style look might be layered and it more about collecting pieces over time than a quick refresh, a little perseverance and an outside-the-box approach to your interiors will see you enjoying this gorgeous, enduring style.

'The interesting thing about European design is that it’s more difficult to achieve in the US because it takes the extra step of sourcing items that are not as readily available in our marketplace,' continues Holly. 'This extra step and appreciation of archival significance sends a message of maturity and elevation of a space. By adding in one-of-a-kind European elements, you can make a space really stand out from the next as each space becomes uniquely its own.'

Finding a Tudor-style cottage, built in the 1920s, complete with all the charm, and beautiful views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mount Tamalpais is of course the dream. However, the reality of... characterful let's call it, properties can be quite different.

While original features are on many interior lovers' bingo cards, they can be tricky to work with, as they are often not designed for modern-day living. So when the owners of this cottage made the purchase, they took a hot second to revel in the charm before bringing in Richardson Pribuss Architects and Studio Montemayor to take on the challenge of maintaining all that character while adapting the house design for modern tastes, and modern life.

Originally built in 1929, the home had great bones, that's clear to see even post-remodel and it's what drew the owners to the property and the architects to the project.

'We were drawn to this project because the house was located on a spectacular site, with great 'bones' and views, and the clients were lovely,' explains Heidi Richardson, Design Principal at Richardson Pribuss Architects.

'The clients came to us since they were initially considering renovating their grandparents' house, which is located across the street from one of our firm's recent projects in Downtown Mill Valley.'

'However, the clients subsequently found this current house fell in love with the location and views, and called our firm to help renovate while retaining the original style and charm.'

This project actually didn't begin as the huge overhaul it eventually became. 'Initially, the clients only wanted to reconfigure the upper level to accommodate a new primary suite by moving around the bedrooms and making space for the primary bath,' continues Heidi.

'The 'great moment' came when we decided to anchor the primary bath to the east rather than the west side, which opened the primary bedroom to beautiful San Francisco Bay views. We added a raised ceiling that exposed the underside of the existing roof rafters. We also added two large dormers in the primary bedroom to increase the light, airflow, and views.'

'We also enlarged the kitchen and modernized the space for the clients, who love to cook and entertain. But the most impactful change was rescaling the top floor and converting an inefficient corridor to a walk thru primary closet leading to the new primary bath,' adds Heidi.

'Through the numerous remodels over the years, we could see that there was also an opportunity to 'fix' the floor plan and modernize the flow,' says Heidi. 'We kept true to the original Tudor styling and maintained the smaller, cozy rooms, which meant that we didn't blow out walls or create huge living areas to respect the Tudor era.'

The most important thing from the very beginning of the project was to maintain that character that both the homeowners and those working on the property loved. And this went for both inside and out.

A huge part of the charm of this property is in those windows. And RPA of course kept those original steel windows where they could be salvaged, even repurposing them from other parts of the property to add more windows along the exterior-facing wall, to double the amount of natural light in the more lived-in rooms.

'It was important to keep the original Tudor style charm, which involved keeping the original steel windows and maintaining the roof lines. We had to dance around keeping the same window style, so incorporated some Aluminum windows in the larger opening,' explains Heidi.

'We also thoughtfully related the house more to the outside since the prior owner was a master gardener, and the rose bushes and grounds were an important part of the house's location and styling.'

Heidi describes the style of the finished project as 'Neo Tudor' – 'The clients describe the house style as contemporary 'Coventry Cottage'; we describe it as 'Neo Tudor' since we retained the house's original Tudor style and charisma while introducing a more modern attitude.'

Dianthus, or pinks, are the perfect plants for a summer border. If you are looking for brightly colored and scented blooms, dianthus are sure to impress. These long-flowering and low-maintenance plants are ideal for any backyard, helping to add floral color at the front of borders, lining paths, or brightening up your container displays.

Dianthus, also referred to as carnations, are a large family of plants made up of over 300 different species. They can be found in all different shapes, sizes and colors, from long-stemmed yellow blooms to low-growing full sun ground cover plants. While working as a gardener in the Chianti region of Tuscany a few years ago, I grew Dianthus 'Devon Cream' amongst sharp topiary structures. This peach-tinted variety glistened in the Italian sunshine.

These popular and versatile plants are relatively easy to grow and can work in large and small spaces alike. By following a few simple steps, such as learning how to deadhead dianthus, you can ensure that your plot is filled with fragrant flowers for much of spring and summer. Here, two gardening experts share their top tips for growing dianthus.

How to grow dianthus

Dianthus plants can be biennials, perennials or evergreens. Whatever species or variety you choose to grow, and there are many to pick from, dianthus plants will be sure to steal the show when in bloom with their brilliant color and fragrance. What's more, dianthus are popular plants for pollinators, known to attract birds, butterflies and bees during the growing season.

Things to know about dianthus

'Dianthus are versatile plants and can be grown in US hardiness zone 5 to US hardiness zone 9,' says Gail Pabst, gardening expert and Marketing Director for the National Garden Bureau.

'They are heavy bloomers and tend to have strong stems, making them useful for those gardeners planning a cut flower garden, providing you with armloads of colorful blooms that are effective in a vase,' Gail adds.

There are many spectacular varieties to choose from, but Gail recommends the ColorPop collection, for their 'bold blooms complemented by silver foliage.' Once established, these plants are 'low-maintenance and tough, thriving in the scorching summer months.'

For a colorful and fragrant variety, why not try a dianthus variety from the Constant Beauty collection, available from Walmart, with flowers that smell just as good as they look?

Growing advice for dianthus

• Soil: 'Dianthus plants thrive in well-drained, slightly alkaline soil,' says Susan Betz, herb expert and Honorary Master Gardener. They are generally versatile and resilient plants and so will tolerate most soils, but - as Susan says - they tend to grow best with a soil pH above 7.0. If you are unsure about the pH of your soil, consider using a soil tester kit, available from Walmart. 'These plants grow well in rocky areas,' Susan adds, so if you are seeking rock garden ideas, dianthus should be a consideration.
• Light: 'These pretty plants do best with full sun exposure,' Susan adds, 'so finding a position in your yard with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun is important.' While they will tolerate part-sun-part-shade, as Susan says, a bright, sunny spot in your borders will generate the best results.
• Watering: Dianthus are generally drought-tolerant plants and can survive dry spells during the spring and summer. However, for any young plants recently added to your yard, I recommend regular watering to ensure they can establish roots. From the second year, they should be self-reliant.
• Fertilizing: This plant does not require fertilizing, and can usually find what it needs in the soil without added nutrients.
• Deadheading: Deadheading, the process of removing spent flowers, is an important job when caring for dianthus plants. Once the blooms begin to brown, you can remove spent flowerheads to encourage more blooms. Using clean, sharp pruning snips, such as these Felco pruners, available from Walmart, carefully cut stems just above a leaf node.

FAQs

Can I grow dianthus in pots?

Yes, dianthus plants can be grown in pots. While they will tolerate dry conditions, be mindful that any pot plants can dry out much quicker than those grown in the ground. For this reason, be sure to water and feed your pots during spring and summer when the temperatures rise.

Dianthus plants are sure to add interest and impact to your borders and, with the right care, these blooms will last long into the summer months. For more plant inspiration, see our guide on how to grow nicotiana, otherwise known as the flowering tobacco, for unusual and striking flowers to add to your dianthus collection this year.

Roses are timeless garden plants. Whether you grow climbing, shrub, or ground cover roses, these blooms are unmistakable, often conjuring up memories of cottage gardens visited long ago. The rose family is hugely diverse, and there are many plants with different forms, growing habits and preferences, meaning that there will be a rose to suit almost any yard.

When I began gardening, several years ago, I had a preconceived prejudice that roses were stuffy, old-fashioned, and not worth the trouble. Alas, today, my opinion couldn't be further from this. I am well and truly part of the rose-appreciation club, having grown to adore many different rose species and varieties. Just last week I was deadheading Rosa 'Roald Dahl', a sumptuous peach rose that is repeat flowering, growing happily in a pot on a small patio.

When considering rose care and growing, many will assume that roses need plenty of sunshine to thrive, and, for the most part, this is true. However, some rose varieties can tolerate a certain amount of shade. So, if you have a darker, north-facing yard, do not rule out rose growing. Here, rose experts answer the question, can roses grow in the shade?

Can roses grow in the shade?

Rose plants can be found in different shapes, sizes and colors. Whether you want a rambling rose to grow over a pergola or a small shrub to grow in a pot, there will be a rose to suit your outside space. While most fragrant roses need plenty of sunshine to produce a bounty of blooms, some varieties can tolerate moderate amounts of shade. So, gardeners with partially shaded yards can consider rose garden ideas.

Can roses grow in shady yards?

'Roses are generally known for needing sunny spots in the yard to thrive, but some varieties can handle part shade and part sun,' says garden expert, Katie Sunderlage.

When we speak of flowering plants for full sun, we generally mean plants that thrive with 8 hours or more of sunshine. When you hear the term part shade, it typically means that the plant can survive just fine with only 3 or 4 hours of direct sun, tolerating shade for most of the day.

'Some rose plants can be grown with only 4 hours of sunlight,' Katie says. 'I am not familiar with any roses that can be grown in full shade, as these flowering plants need some sunshine to produce buds and bloom.'

'While they might not have as many blooms compared to those grown in full sun, planting roses in part shade will still produce plenty of flowers during the summer months for you to enjoy,' Katie says.

In warmer, southern US hardiness zones, such as zone 9 or zone 10, growing in part shade can be preferable, providing some protection from the scorching summer sun.

Importantly, only certain roses should be grown in shady borders, so it is crucial to research specific rose species or varieties before planting.

Rose varieties that can tolerate part-shade

'Roses generally need 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day,' says Robin Jennings, rose expert and Manager of Strategic Partnerships at Heirloom Roses, 'but a few varieties can handle partial shade.'

If you are unsure about the light amounts in your yard, consider using a measuring device, such as this light meter, available from Walmart. This useful tool will allow you to see just how much sunlight your plants will get.

As with part-shade perennials, 'part-shade roses need at least 4 hours of sunlight per day to grow,' Robin adds. 'For climbing roses, 'Eden' and 'New Dawn' are two varieties that can handle some shade.'

'For shrub roses, one striking option that can tolerate shade is 'Thérèse Bugnet', renowned for producing brilliant pink blooms,' says Robin. This is an 'older rose with nearly thornless canes, growing well in US hardiness zones 3 to 10. It also has good disease resistance too.' Rosa 'Thérèse Bugnet' is available to buy online from Walmart.

Robin also suggests 'Westerland' for a colorful option that can tolerate moderate shade, as seen in the image above with impactful orange blooms.

Finally, many of the Knock Out Roses will thrive with as little as 4 hours of sunlight. These are low-maintenance plants and come in a wide variety of colors, including pink, red and yellow. Knock-out roses are available to order online from Walmart.

Shop part-shade roses

FAQs

What flowering shrubs can I grow in a shady yard?

If you want a rose-type plant for a dark and shady spot, I would recommend planting a camellia shrub. Learning how to grow camellias is relatively straightforward, and with a preference for shady spots, these rose-shaped blooms will add a pop of color to any border.

While roses have a preference for a sunny position, many can be grown in part-shade. Selecting a shade-tolerant variety that is also disease-resistant will ensure that your roses thrive, even in dark and challenging spots in the yard. For more rose-growing information, see our guide on how to move a rose and how to water roses.

Container gardening is one of the most exciting, versatile and fulfilling ways of packing our yards with interest and color. The great thing about container gardening is you have an almost infinite color palette to play with, from vibrant shades to calm, cool plants with silver-toned foliage, funky grasses and languidly trailing greenery.

It is also a great way of gaining green-fingered confidence and discovering the true potential of a wide range of plants if you are new to gardening, and for those who don't have a large outside space. It can be a bit daunting, so before you start buying and planting, do some research to decide on the container gardening ideas or container garden trends you like and try not to be distracted by the myriad varieties, shapes and shades available,

I started my gardening journey helping my dad plant up his patio pots every summer when I was a child, and it is still one of my favourite outdoor pastimes. Follow our tips below to create beautiful, color-packed containers and baskets for your yard, while avoiding the most common container gardening mistakes.

Container gardening shopping list

Before you start your container gardening adventure, draw up a list of the tools and equipment you will need. These will include:

• A container of your choice: See below for some container shopping inspo.
• Crocks: To line the base of the container. Brocken crockery or gravel works well.
• Potting soil: This needs to be rich in nutrients and free draining so the pots don't get waterlogged. I like this organic potting soil by Espoma, on Amazon, which can be used for edibles as well as flowering plants. We also explore the best soil for container gardening in our dedicated piece.
• Water storing crystals: These make watering easier as they hold onto and release a steady flow of moisture when plants need it. This 5lb tin of crystals on Amazon will last a long time.
• Fertilizer: You need two varieties. A general purpose one like Miracle Gro Shake and Feed on Amazon for overall health, and a tomato fertilizer like Dynamite Mater Magic, also from Amazon, which is rich in potassium for greater flowering.
• Trowel: This popular heavy duty trowel by Edward Tools on Amazon is ideal for planting in a confined area
• Pot feet: These lift pots off the ground so excess water can escape. It prevents waterlogging, which forces oxygen from the potting soil and can kill your plants. This eight-pot set of invisible risers on Amazon fits the bill perfectly.

What type of container should I use?

There is a planter for every style of backyard and for every position in your garden, and here are some suggestions with the pros and cons of each one:

• Classic terracotta: These pots never go out of fashion and often look better the older and more weathered they get. They come in a range of styles and sizes and most have been treated to be frost-proof to withstand sub-zero temperatures. However, if you live in a very cold hardiness zone it will be worth bringing them undercover in late fall.
• Wooden planters: either varnished or painted, are a smart and more rustic choice. Make sure the exterior wood has been treated with preservative so it lasts longer. They may need repainting or treating at the end of each summer.
• Metal: Metal gives a smart, contemporary look but the containers may be heavy to manoeuvre and get very hot in the sun. Watch out for rust.
• Lined wicker: These lend themselves to cottage gardens and gravel gardens. They are light, which makes them easy to move, but may need weighing down. They are not the longest-lasting option.
• Plastic: If you are on a budget, plastic containers are your go-to as modern ones can be absolute dupes for more expensive pot or metal. They are lighter than other materials, and can become fragile after several years of exposure to the sun.
• Unusual containers: There are almost no limits to what you can use as a container for growing plants, so dream big! Why not try old Wellington boots and watering cans, large vegetable tins or antique sinks? Scour junk yards and car boot sales for inspiration. We advise against using anything that once held chemicals or paints, and also old car tires as the rubber can leach toxins into the potting soil.

The best plants to grow in containers

Variety is key when it comes to planting up a garden container. The aim is to start with a central feature plant and work outwards to the trailing varieties that tumble attractively over the edge of your pots. Here are some of my favorite plants that work beautifully in containers.

Feature plants

These are the tall plants that sit at the center of your container. For summer container planting, I usually go for something eye-catching like a fuchsia, pelargonium, osteospermum or salvia. Ornamental grasses and silver-leaved varieties add a cool contrast to the colorful mix and dark-leaved varieties of dahlias add wow factor too.

Colorful annuals

For an endless candy shop of color, look at petunias, begonias, marigolds, dwarf nicotiana, which is one of the best night-scented plants. Also try nemesia and verbena - to name just a few.

 Trailing plants 

Lobelia, trailing varieties of petunia, fuchsia, pelargonium and creeping Jenny are some of the best trailing plants for the edge of containers.

I also like to break up the color scheme with variegated ivies and trailing herbs, such as creeping thyme.

Ornamental grasses

Ornamental grasses add movement and airiness to containers, providing an elegant foil to the more gaudy plantings around them.

Taller varieties such as miscanthus make graceful focal plants, while low growing carex and blue fescue can be used as low-growing plants around the feature variety.

As an added bonus, if left alone in the fall, their seedheads become a focal point of their own through the winter months

Succulents

A mixture of succulents creates intriguing low-maintenance, drought-tolerant containers. Think of cacti, echevarias, sedums, which are one of the best backyard plants for pollinators, aloe vera and sempervivum.

Make sure they are potted up in suitable potting soil. They will need a very gritty, free-draining proprietary cactus potting soil and minimal watering to prevent the fleshy plants from rotting.

Garden herbs

When mulling over your container gardening ideas, why not consider a herb planter? They are perfect for containers and can be grown by the kitchen door for easy access while cooking.

Consider a bushy rosemary in the center with low-growing aromatic herbs such as lemon balm, chives and creeping thyme around the outside.

Keep mints separate in their own container as they can be thuggish and take over the whole pot.

Fruit and vegetables

Why not try trailing fruit and vegetables? Lettuces, Swiss chard with colorful stems and dark kale such as 'Cavolo Nero' all look good in containers, either by themselves or mixed with ornamental varieties.

There are lots of tumbling tomato varieties including the original ‘Tumbling Tom’ which comes in red and yellow, ‘Cherry Fountain’, ‘Garden Pearl’ and ‘Rambling Gold Stripe’. Strawberries are another good bet.

How to plant up a container

The method is virtually the same whether you are creating a container or planting a hanging basket and once you have got the hang of it you can use it for all your planters, whatever size they are.

• While you are getting everything ready, stand your plants, still in their pots, in a bowl of water for around 30 minutes. This gives the roots a good soak and males it easier to side them from their pots.
• A container filled with potting soil and plants is going to be heavy, so start by placing it where you want it to be.
• Add a layer of crocks (broken pieces of pottery) or gravel at the base of the pot, as this will help excess water escape and prevent your container becoming waterlogged.
• Start adding your potting soil until you have a 2in gap between its surface and the rim of the pot to make it easier to water..
• If you are using a multipurpose compost, you may want to add some fertilizer as you go to give your plants an initial boost. I also add water retaining crystals so the plants get a steady flow of moisture in between waterings.
• Now add your first central plant. Make a hole in the center of the compost, gently slip the plant from its pot and tease out the roots, then add it to your container and form the potting soil around it.
• Now add the shorter-growing plants and those with sprawling habits such as petunias, marigolds,
• Plant the trailing varieties around the edge of the pot so they tumble down attractively. Mix them up a bit, so the green trailing plants add a contrasting note to the curtain of color provided by the flowers.
• Carefully lift the planter onto its feet, then water well to irrigate the roots and settle the compost. Don’t worry about any gaps, the plants will soon grow and fill the space.

FAQs

Are containers just for summer? 

Absolutely not. There are many wonderful plants that can be added to pots to bring color to your yard, patio and balcony all year round.

I like to think up long-lasting fall planter ideas and spring pot ideas using varieties of hardy varieties of cyclamen, as well as dwarf daisies, pansies and violas, not to mention miniature bulbs including snowdrops, anemones and dwarf varieties of daffodils, tulips and Iris reticulata.

Intersperse them with hardy evergreen trailing plants, ornamental grasses and herbs and you have a stunning combination that will last you through to the spring.

How often should containers be watered?

Watering plants in containers is an important job, because a lot of things growing in a confined space will quickly use up all the available moisture.

Daily watering may be essential during very hot, dry spells. Be aware that containers in sheltered areas, such as against walls or beneath the eaves of the house, may miss out on rain and need extra watering.

Always direct the watering can or hose onto the compost, not the leaves or petals. If you are using peat-free compost, it can sometimes look bone dry on top, but actually be soggy underneath. The best way to avoid overwatering is to stick a finger in the compost up to your first knuckle. If it feels dry, then water, but if it feels damp, wait another day and test again.

If the compost is very dry and water runs off or sits on the top of the potting soil, add a couple of drops of dishwashing detergent to the watering can, as this helps break the surface tension and lets the water sink in.

How often should I feed containers?

Most proprietary container potting soils come with between 4-6 weeks of fertiliser already added, and general purpose potting soil will also have several weeks' worth of goodness in it before you add any fertilizer.

We recommend starting feeding your plants around five weeks after planting, using a general purpose fertilizer when plants are growing, switching to a potassium-rich tomato feed when flower buds form, as this will encourage the plants to produce their best blooms.

Can trees grow in containers?

Many tree and shrub varieties work beautifully in containers, and scented varieties such as Daphne odora and Sarcococca hookeriana, or sweet box, make give visitors an attractive perfumed welcome if they are placed in the front porch.

Japanese maples (acers), bay trees and standard lavenders are a prime choice, but you can also grow dwarf varieties of fruit trees in pots.

Make sure the pots have good drainage and are large enough to accommodate all the roots without cramping them. Because trees take up a lot of nutrients, they will need feeding with general fertilizer in spring, plus regular feeds with liquid fertilizer through the growing season.

They will need re-potting every few years in spring, and in between they need topdressing, when the top few inches of old potting soil is removed and replaced with fresh.

To keep your containers looking glorious all summer and well into the fall, don’t forget to deadhead plants as soon as their flowers are starting to fade. This encourages them to produce new buds, so the color keeps coming for months.

This charming old farmhouse – think mellow, honey-toned stone and pale grey shutters – is just a short drive from both Nice and Cannes, two of the south of France’s most glamorous spots, but it could be half a world away. Here the pace is altogether slower, with the scent of lavender wafting gently into rooms dappled with Mediterranean sunlight.

The owners, who have four children - ages ranging from teenagers to young adults, wanted the house design to meet the highest standards of 21st-century family living while preserving the authentic rustic character of the building. They called on the talents of Studio Indigo for the task.

‘This is an unpretentious French farmhouse and the owners were really keen to reflect that, with robust materials and durable pieces that would cope beautifully with the demands of a large family,’ says Mike Fisher, founder and creative director of the luxury interior design practice.

Mike’s first step was to make sense of the main open-plan room, which includes an island kitchen. Although the farmhouse had been reworked by an architect, this huge area, spanning much of the ground floor, came across as an echoey expanse of tiled flooring and beamed ceiling.

By clearly zoning the space into separate functions – including sitting and dining areas – and using custom-made sofas and chairs that sit slightly low in the space, Studio Indigo has created a series of ‘rooms within a room’, while boosting the sense of height.

‘The furniture was designed with lounging teenagers in mind. We wanted big, bold pieces to create comfort and to properly fill and define what felt like a vast empty space,’ Mike says.

As this is a house the family likes to visit throughout the seasons, it was important to be light and cozy throughout. ‘For many of the rooms, the starting point was a striking collection of abaca and jute rugs, all with a raw, tactile feel bringing warmth to the cool stone floors,’ says Mike.

For the color palette, cues were taken from the south of France: warm, earthy oranges that are the perfect foil for vibrant Mediterranean blues against a backdrop of soft white. ‘We selected a mix of fabrics that would work beautifully when saturated in the Côte d’Azur sunlight.’

Equally careful attention was paid to the furniture, with bespoke furniture commissioned and artisan-made pieces incorporated– such as the table and sideboard in the dining area – bringing unique character to each room. ‘Inspired by the location, the limed oak of the sideboard features a sculptural finish that reflects the patterns the waves make in the sand,’ says Mike.

In the sitting room, the coffee table base is formed from a vast piece of a sculptural tree root, bringing a simple rustic element to the scheme while nodding to the tree-clad hillside setting. ‘Through the use of colorful textiles alongside organic materials we’ve celebrated the relaxed French farmhouse feel.’

The children’s bedrooms all have a seating area and bathroom, giving each family member their own space. The main suite – with its high ceilings, exposed timber beams, and muted oak floorboards – goes one better, with his and hers bathrooms and dressing rooms, and a generous lounge area that serves as a private retreat.

Here the bespoke seating is gently raised and wraps around the curving corner window, allowing the couple to drink in the magnificent views. With every space so carefully considered and curated, the farmhouse now has a feel of relaxed elegance that the whole family can come together and enjoy.

Meet the designer

Mike Fisher shares his style inspiration

What part of the home was the biggest indulgence?

Handcrafted bespoke design, because it is personal to the client.

What small change had the biggest impact?

Color is really important to me. It gives a space personality and identity, bringing vibrancy and a sense of joy.

Do you have a go-to color?

A bit of orange is always inspiring and really warms up shades of blue.

Which details are key to your style?

I like a surface, such as a sideboard - somewhere to put a lamp, some flowers, and knickknack type of things that make a space one’s own.

Describe your style in three words.

Inventive, timeless, joyful.

Who are your design heroes?

Charles Cameron, Edwin Lutyens, John Vanbrugh.

Where do you find inspiration?

More than anything, the building that I’m working on and responding to its particular challenges to create a unique solution.

Do you have a favorite building?

Castle Howard in Yorkshire – it’s so theatrical against the landscape.

Can you tell us a secret address for our books?

L’Atelier Blanc, a charming interiors shop in Valbonne, France.

Looking for trusty perennials to give you that cottage garden-feel? Sweet William, or Dianthus barbatus, is simply a must for your plant list. These charming clusters of flowers are loved for their white and pink hues on their often patterned flowers.

Captivating the essence of a cottage garden and among the best cottage garden plants, sweet William adds sophistication to borders, pots and beds. These flowers are native to Europe and parts of Asia and grow happily across US hardiness zone 3 to zone 9. They're quite easy to grow and will bloom from spring through to fall so long as you meet some simple care requirements.

We've spoken to garden experts to find out more about growing sweet William, including when to plant it and how to keep it blooming for many months.

How to grow sweet William

Sweet William plants are the perfect flowers to soften up planting in your yard. Their charming flowers will bloom for months on end if you give them the right care. Follow our expert tips and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful display of dianthus.

When to grow sweet William

Before getting started with growing sweet William, it's important to know when the best time to grow them is - otherwise your efforts may go to waste as these plants will struggle to establish in the wrong season.

Dianthus will flower from late spring through to fall, so the best time to plant seeds is during fall or early spring.

'The best time to grow dianthus is during the cooler months of spring and fall. These seasons provide the ideal conditions for the establishment and growth of dianthus plants,' says Autumn Janus, plant expert from Perfect Plants.

You can either sow seeds outdoors or sow seeds indoors to then transplant outdoors later on, but take care not to sow them outdoors during winter where there is a risk of frost and dropping temperatures. This is a seed sowing mistake that leads to failed germination and can even kill off seedlings.

You might also consider using an indoor greenhouse to help your young sweet William plants establish by providing extra humidity and warmth.

Where to grow sweet William

Now that you know when to grow sweet William, you need identify the best location in your backyard to grow them. These plants like plenty of sunlight, but can adapt to different positions.

'Dianthus plants prefer a position that receives bright sunlight. They thrive in areas that get at least five to six hours of direct sun each day,' says Autumn.

Nevertheless, if you are working with a shade garden and struggle to get lots of sunlight in your yard, sweet William dianthus can tolerate part-shade. You might find including dianthus in your container garden helpful for moving it to a brighter spot for a few hours when the sun comes out.

'Additionally, dianthus plants prefer well-drained soil. It is important to plant them in an area that allows for good air circulation to prevent diseases and ensure healthy growth,' notes Autumn.

If sweet William plants aren't able to drain well and are left in oversaturated soil, you may notice a lack of blooms and even wilting flowers as a result of rotting roots. Opting to grow dianthus in raised beds can therefore be a good idea to help it drain better.

How to plant sweet William

Whether you have chosen to sow sweet William seeds outdoors directly or you're planting up seedlings, you should aim to plant these flowers at a depth of around 1-2mm.

'It is recommended to plant dianthus about 6 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety, and make sure to provide proper spacing to allow for air circulation,' Autumn adds.

Sweet William creates a dazzling display when planted en-masse but it also works well as a filler among an arrangement of larger spring-flowering plants and late summer flowers.

When sowing seeds, ensure they are kept somewhere bright and you should see seedlings start to sprout after a few weeks. You should always use clean essential gardening tools when planting up new plants to avoid passing on harmful bacteria or diseases from other plants.

How to care for sweet William

Knowing how to water plants is key to keeping them happy and healthy. Too much or too little water could kill them off.

'Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged,' says Paris Lalicata, head of plant education and community at The Sill.

'If planted in the garden you can check the top few inches of soil and if it’s dry it’s time to water the plant. Be sure to give a deep, thorough soaking at the time of watering,' she adds. 'If planted in a container, water once the top few inches of soil have dried out as well.'

It's easy to monitor moisture levels with this moisture meter from Amazon.

As perennials, sweet Williams will return each year. This means it's essential to deadhead dianthus after they finish flowering in fall. 'This encourages the plant to continue shooting out blooms for the season because their goal is to create seeds so they can reproduce, so removing those blooms before they create seeds stimulates the plant to keep creating more,' says Paris.

Another way to keep sweet William blooming for longer is by fertilizing it. 'I would suggest fertilizing your plant every six to eight weeks during the active growing season in spring and early summer,' suggests Autumn. Take care not to fertilize your sweet William plants during cooler months because it could burn roots or oversaturate the soil.

Grow sweet William at home

FAQs

Why is my sweet William not flowering?

There are a few reasons why your sweet William may not be flowering. Firstly, these plants don't enjoy sitting in oversaturated soil and a too-wet environment could cause a lack of blooms, wilting flowers and root rot. Like most other flowering plants, sweet William also needs plenty of sunlight to encourage blooms. The best thing to do is remove any damaged or dying stems and flowers and adjust its growing environment accordingly. You may also choose to use a bloom boosting fertilizer to help encourage your sweet William to flower. It's also important to note that these plants only flower from spring to fall. Deadhead sweet William after it has finished flowering and continue providing care through fall and winter to encourage returning blooms in spring.

Can you propagate sweet William?

It's possible to propagate sweet William plants from cuttings. Take cuttings from just below a leaf node where roots will establish. You can then either place your cutting in water or propagate straight into soil. Make sure to keep your propagation warm and provide plenty of light to encourage root development. It's also possible to collect sweet William seed when the plant has finished flowering to sow and grow new plants.

Choosing to grow sweet William in your yard will reward you with a fabulous display of charming, cottage garden flowers. These are also a perfect addition to cut flower gardens and pink summer borders.

It's easy to understand why so many of us aspire for towards an 'old money' aesthetic. The movement prioritizes quality products and design features that are classic enough to transcend fleeting trends – meaning, in terms of interiors, we often see versatile neutrals and soothing materials that will look just as beautiful in another decade.

The formula of ageless hues and quality materials is the basis of the old-money aesthetic in every room of the home, but arguably, no space leaves room for experimentation like the kitchen. And Reese Witherspoon has set the precedent for this space. While we can spend hours talking about her dusty gray color choice, it is the kitchen cabinet's glass fronting that, designers say, truly brings the old money look alive.

'Glass cabinets are a traditional fixture in kitchens, especially those with “old money” aesthetic – that means classic and timeless materials and finishes that withstand the fast-paced, ever-changing trend cycles,' comments Michele Iapicco, the principal at Iapicco Design Studio.

In Witherspoon's space, she has chosen clear glass, meaning her crockery collection is on show. However, there are ways to follow suit, even if we'd rather keep our plates, dishes, and glasses hidden.

'Glass-front cabinets are a great accent to add to your kitchen, and there are different ways to go about it. Frosted glass adds a layer of dimension but obscures the stack of dishes behind it. If you’re not so concerned with curating your cabinets, frosted is probably the way to go,' Iapicco explains.

Alternatively, we can opt for a glass front with a lattice feature to bring more yet more depth to a quiet luxury kitchen. Depending on our choice of glass, Iapicco says we can either create a 'whimsical,' 'traditional,' or 'French country cottage' style to our space.

Upgrading our cabinets may seem like a timely job, but tapping into Witherspoon's look doesn't need to be so time or cost-consuming.

'You can bring this look into your home by simply changing a few doors in your existing kitchen. Depending on your layout, selecting the upper cabinet on either side of your sink or stove can change the look and feel of your space,' Iapicco says. 'Also, if there’s one wall that is more of a “focal wall,” select cabinets there to make an impact. I will add that you should avoid using glass on lower cabinets and select an area in your kitchen where adding glass to upper cabinets will make an impact.'

Shop the old money kitchen edit

Cabinets aside, these accessories will bring this beautiful aesthetic into every style of kitchen.

Division is a clever way for gardeners to grow their plant collection. If you are keen to learn new propagation techniques this year, learning how to divide plants is an interesting and cost-effective way to add more plants to your garden borders.

While many perennials and shrubs have a relatively high success rate when propagating by division - hellebores, for example - other plants are best left alone and should not be moved or divided. For this reason, planting in the right position is important, so it is always best to take the time to make a considered decision when placing new perennials and shrubs in the yard.

We have put together a list of which plants do not like to be disturbed, which includes some popular perennials and herbs. While there is always a chance of success, and plants do have a way of surprising us gardeners, I would caution against lifting or moving any of the following, or risk losing your prized plants.

Plants you should never move or divide

Division is a propagation technique that tends to occur either in the fall or in the spring. If you are looking for flower bed ideas, plants such as hellebores or peonies are ideal perennials that can be successfully divided, thereby boosting plant numbers in your borders. Several plants, however, do not like to be disturbed, and you should refrain from moving, lifting or dividing any of the plants listed below.

1. Lavender

While you might know how to grow lavender, it is important to remember that like other woody shrubs and herbs, lavender plants do not respond well to being lifted, moved or divided.

'Many perennial herbs, such as lavender and sage, should not be moved,' says Susan Betz, plant expert and Honorary Master Gardener. 'Once established, these plants do not like to be disturbed.'

'When planting, remember the important rule: right plant, right place,' says Susan. 'Lavender and sage plants should be positioned in a spot where they can thrive and remain.'

To avoid having woody lavender plants in your yard, ensure that you prune your plants every year, to maintain a compact, healthy form.

English lavender is available online from Nature Hills.

2. Burning bush

An unusual perennial, burning bush, Dictamnus albus, is a striking cottage garden plant with attractive upright flowers. Native to the edge of woodlands across much of Europe, North Africa, and Asia, burning bush is a unique and long-flowering perennial.

'These plants develop a long taproot, which makes them difficult to relocate or divide,' says Susan. 'It is best to choose a spot where you can leave the plant to grow and thrive for the span of its lifecycle, which could be decades.'

It may take three years for burning bush plants to flower, so this perennial is one for the patient gardeners.

3. California Lilac

California lilacs have long been popular with gardeners for producing masses of lilac-blue blooms. What's more, these flowering shrubs for full sun positions are known to be popular plants for pollinators, attracting bees, birds and butterflies during spring and summer.

'For plants that should never be moved, lifted or divided, there are several tap-rooted California natives to note, including Ceanothus, or California lilacs,' says Terry Huang, plant expert and Director of Living Collections at South Coast Botanic Garden in the Los Angeles area.

'Even if they do survive transplanting or lifting, these plants rarely seem to get their footing again, so be sure where you want the plant positioned,' Terry adds. 'The positive side is that, once established, they need very little care other than light aesthetic pruning once a year.'

California lilacs are available to buy from Nature Hills.

4. Rosemary

Most gardeners will know how to grow rosemary, and once this herb is established, it is incredibly low-maintenance, seemingly thriving on neglect. In addition, this aromatic herb is highly fragrant, attracting insects and pollinators for much of the summer months.

Much like lavender and sage, rosemary plants gradually become woody over several years, preferring not to be moved, lifted or divided. It is a much safer bet to propagate rosemary plants by taking cuttings.

The best time to take cuttings from rosemary plants is immediately after flowering, during the springtime. Simply snip several stems that have foliage but no flowers, that measure 3 to 5 inches in length. Strip the foliage from the bottom half of the stem, and place in a gritty potting mix. Within 4 to 6 weeks, roots should begin to develop.

Rosemary plants are available to buy online from Walmart.

FAQs

If I cannot divide my California lilac, how should I propagate my plant?

You are not able to divide California lilac plants because of their root structure. Instead, it is best to propagate this plant by taking cuttings. Your approach will be dependent on the species of California lilac that you grow. For example, softwood cuttings can be taken for deciduous varieties in the springtime.

While division is a useful propagation technique for gardeners, not all plants respond well to this approach. It is always best to check if dividing is suitable for your plant before digging them up, or you risk killing your prized plants.

For additional propagation information, see our guide on how to propagate hydrangeas, to learn how to grow your hydrangea collection this year.

It can be hard to keep up with interior design trends. They come and go and come back around faster than you can keep track. And then there's the investment involved, too. 

So, if you're looking to dip your toe into some of 2024's top trends but are conscious of budget, I've got you covered.

From coastal to cottage, minimalist to rustic, I've picked out the 5 best trends you can shop now on Wayfair all while teaching you how to shop wayfair like a style editor. My biggest top tip? You can filter Wayfair by interior design styles to help you to find the best picks, perfectly curated to your personal style. It's as easy as that.

Shop This Year's Biggest Trends At Wayfair

1. Japandi minimalism

If your home leans on the side of neutral, clean, and certainly minimalist, you'll love these Japandi decor inspired buys from Wayfair. Think boucle, earthy tones, and a touch of natural wood to warm the whole thing up.

2. Cottagecore

The cottagecore trend might have been around for a few years now (thanks to lockdown's making us all appreciate a more wholesome and asethtically-pleasing way of living indoors), but at Wayfair it's still going strong. Pick yourself up a mismatch of stripes, ginghams, florals and ruffles to bring some whimsical charm to your rooms.

3. California Casual

California casual is a design style that marries coastal, seaside interiors with a more subdued rustic edge. The mix of hushed blues, rattan and beachy wood tones that this edit brings has me obsessed.

4. French Country

Looking for something a little more classic? These French country decor pieces, like the traditional ticking stripe bed skirt and rustic wooden furnishings, could be just what your home is missing. 

5. Western

Western and cabin-style interiors are currently trending, and for good reason. Bring a little warmth and rustic charm to your living spaces with touches of plaid, cowboy-themed trinkets and layers of sheepskin, cowhide and woven materials. 

Thanks to Wayfair, shopping this season's biggest trends couldn't be easier. Not only that, but I've done my best to bring an edit of timeless pieces that will never date in your home and (hopefully) you'll still love for years to come. 

If you’re looking to create the ultimate relaxing sleep space, you need not look further than the cottagecore aesthetic. This slow-living-inspired trend is more than just a fad – it is a wistful decorating scheme that is perfect for encouraging rest and relaxation.

But how do you organize a cottagecore bedroom without disrupting the cozy look?

These five aesthetic organizing tricks are essential for organizing a cottage bedroom, helping to create a serene and organized space that is perfectly in keeping with the homey, cottagecore feel.

How to organize a cottagecore bedroom

As you might expect, many of the usual rules for organizing a bedroom apply: reduce clutter, keep walkways clear, and ensure all your essentials are easy to grab. To make it cottagecore, however, you need to focus on your storage products, and how you keep things hidden.

This is what professional organizers and designers suggest.

1. Stay away from plastics

Unlike organizing a modern bedroom, you will generally want to stay away from sleek and polished bedroom organizers – such as those made from plastic, metal, or plain glass, begins Jennifer Bell, professional organizer and owner of Bell Home Organizing. Instead, you’ll want more rustic options, such as woven baskets and wood, she continues:

‘Cottagecore focuses on sustainability and items made by artisans. To organize your bedroom using this design style, stay away from plastic bins and storage containers and instead opt for materials like water hyacinth bins or cotton rope baskets to keep a natural and calming vibe that many people love about cottagecore.

‘I personally love these water hyacinth baskets from The Container Store. They come in two colors (natural and mocha brown), and a variety of shapes and sizes so they can easily adapt to your space.’

2. Use visible storage, such as walls

How you choose to use and display your bedroom storage is also important in the cottagecore trend.

'The aesthetic prides itself on displaying all of your knick-knacks and collectibles to help make your space feel more lived-in and homey. For this reason, using visible storage, such as hanging things on walls or using open shelving, feels right at home for this design style', says Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla:

‘Use your walls as much as possible (without making the space feel cluttered). Depending on the size, you can add wooden shelves and decorative boxes or baskets, and even potted plants, your favorite books, or decor items to them.

‘While this style has a curated and collected look, having too many things around will make it overwhelming,’ he warns. ‘To avoid this, you can group things, for example organizing a bookshelf by color.’

3. Keep electronics hidden

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that, for a design style so heavily anchored in rustic, old-world charm, it is advisable to hide away all your electronics. And yes, that includes bedroom TVs, advises Jennifer Bell, professional organizer.

‘Bedrooms need to store a variety of items from clothing to TV remotes, phone chargers, and even children’s toys. It is important for bedrooms to conceal clutter and visual noise. It has been shown that clutter-free bedrooms help you have a more restful sleep, after all.

‘Water Hyacinth and rope bins, such as these at Amazon, provide attractive concealed storage and will help keep your bedroom calming and clutter-free. ‘Choose soft natural colors to provide a clean and airy look in line with the cottagecore style,’ Jennifer adds.

As for your bedroom TV ideas, consider clever ways to hide a TV, such as covering it with art, integrating it into a cabinet, or picking a framed TV that you can blend into a gallery wall with some nice cottagecore-style art on display.

4. Swap closet doors for curtains

While there are several ways to aesthetically organize a closet, when it comes to organizing a cottage bedroom, it is about how you hide your clothes away. Opting for natural wood or a painted closet door is a good place to start for a whimsical look, but if you really want to lean into the style, consider curtain closet ideas instead.

When picking out some fabric for curtained closets or cabinets, opt for traditional, small-scale country patterns, suggests Marie Goodwin, head designer at Prestigious Textiles. ‘This trend lends itself well to floral designs, but we’ll also see small-scale gingham and stripes which aren’t going anywhere, mixed with leaf and tile designs. Traditional shades of powder blue and mid-greens will work well.’

5. Recycle old containers for rustic charm

Another cornerstone of the cottagecore style is repurposing and recycling – meaning it is very easy to organize without spending any money. When organizing a cottagecore bedroom, interior designer Devin Shaffer suggests keeping hold of old wooden crates and vintage-looking boxes and tins for repurposing.

‘You can take a vintage old wooden crate can and turn it into your nightstand or a vintage box or suitcase as a side table, get creative with it.’

Overall, cottagecore bedrooms are a great aesthetic trend to consider if you are often trying to organize a bedroom with too much stuff. With an emphasis on corralling your most treasured items and displaying your collections and trinkets, there are few home organizing schemes as cozy and welcoming as this one.

For anyone already familiar with Erin Napier's style, it will come as no surprise that her front yard follows the same quintessential design ethos. 

Napier, known for blending traditional southern style with quirky English charm, has drawn design inspiration from the most unlikely of places – from a vintage ice cream bar to Mrs. Patmore's kitchen (Downton Abbey fans will know). It is perhaps only fitting, therefore, that her exteriors tap into a similar aesthetic – and to achieve this, she turned to a statement spring favorite: climbing roses.

Despite its Mississippi zip code, the climbing rose allows Napier to tap into a cottage garden aesthetic reminiscent of the most beautiful English country homes – serving as a subtle reminder of what we can find beyond her front door.

The climbing roses are the focal point of Napier's front yard landscaping, but her lantern lighting enhances the English-inspired aesthetic, and the neatly manicured lawn will never fail to look good. The designer's country home is the perfect backdrop for such blooms, but as Rachel Bull, H&G's head of gardens, explains, this look is replicable in spaces far beyond Mississippi. 

'Growing an elegant climbing rose like this around an entryway or backyard patio door is such a wonderful way to embrace scent in your outdoor space. It is also a super romantic look, especially owing to the pale blush tones of these flowers, which really reminds me of the quintessential English cottage garden style,' Bull says.

As Erin hints in her Instagram caption, the beauty of spring flowers can be fleeting, but some roses impress throughout the season every single year. To enjoy the beauty for longer, Rachel suggests investing in a hybrid tea climbing rose, which is exquisitely formed and has pointed 'bud flowers'. Each stem typically holds a single flower with sparse foliage at the base, and the effect is timeless. 

'The best type of rose with which to recreate this look would be a hybrid tea climbing rose. They come in a huge number of colors and varieties,' Bull suggests. 'By training one to grow around a doorway or along a trellis on a patio, you will get to experience a long-flowering season of these gorgeous blooms every year.'

Whether we're looking to train roses to grow around our doorway or around our porch – or taking things to another level and designing a whole rose garden, it's important to invest in the best flowers possible. We recommend shopping at a reliable rose provider, including Burpee, where we often pick up our blooms. 

Roses aside, we can get the look with Napier-inspired lanterns, designed to elevate any outdoor space. 

Tan France's home is a site to behold. We've already unpacked how much we love his luxe, wallpapered home theatre and his serene, blue walk-in closet, but our latest fixation is on another property entirely: his guest cottage.

The offshoot of his main home is a cozy but open space, including a sunny bedroom, with wood finishes, big windows, and most notably, a green color palette. Between the striped wallpaper and the painted doors, the monochromatic scheme makes the room feel vibrant and inviting, without being overpowering.

A mainstay colorway in the home, we've recently observed a host of celebrities decorating with green in creative new ways. From Emma Stone's California house, (which recently sold) to Emily Ratajkowski's living room, it's the color celebrities can't help but experiment with. Part of its popularity is due to its psychological impact.

'The color green connects us with nature and grounds our emotions, making us feel more stable,' says Leigh Spicher, National Director of Design Studios for Ashton Woods Homes. 'It’s a personal favorite of mine currently. It can be soft and neutral or bold and powerful… just like nature.' 

Of all the spaces to experiment with green, we can, therefore, see why Tan has introduced this hue to his bedroom color palette, where feeling grounded and well-rested is particularly key.

Green's range is ample, veering from pale pastels to moody mosses. One of Spicher's favorite shades is sage, the ultimate middle-ground shade.

'Sage green’s versatility makes it so easy to love,' she says. 'Sage can be considered a neutral as it pairs well with natural elements and textures, or it can be a chic way to incorporate a burst of color.' 

Spicher recommends incorporating green not only through paint and wallpaper, but accessories as well for some bursts of color throughout a space.

'Whether through accent cushions, kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinetry, or an entire room that is painted, it adds an instant pop of liveliness and vitality,' she explains. 'Sage also creates a unique sense of serenity in the home that we can all benefit from in 2024.'

Shop H&G's handpicked green edit

Below, find some green home pieces that fit the bill for a blissful and modern space (beyond the guest cottage).

When you think of cozy, characterful interiors, cottage style likely comes to mind. Filled with historic charm and embracing the quirks and original features that come with them, cottage interiors are a timeless aesthetic that continue to transcend trends.

Although cottages in different countries and of different ages have their own unique appeal, they all have key elements that define the style. Whether exposed beams take center stage, original shiplap paneling is restored, or sloped ceilings are used to create a cozy bedroom nook, there are plenty of cottage decorating ideas that embrace the style.

So, what exactly defines cottage style, and how you can elevate your interiors with it? We've asked interior designers and experts to weigh in on the core elements of cottage style.

What is cottage style?

Cottage interiors are defined by cozy spaces, eclectic furniture, and a sense of history embedded in its foundations. There is often a strong element of country decor that runs through this aesthetic – cottage homes are synonymous with the countryside and the rural lifestyle that comes with it.

'For me, cottage style is an interplay between comfort and whimsy, a narrative of textures and colors that speak to simplicity and warmth. It's a style that embraces the eclectic, where every piece tells a story, and there's a harmonious disarray that somehow feels both curated and assembled. It’s the embodiment of cozy and one that we love to embrace,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

Coziness and imperfection are at the heart of cottage style. The idea that nothing is too precious and the pieces within them are loved, cherished, and handed down is what creates a charming atmosphere and non-pretentious aesthetic.

'Cottage style creates a sanctuary where the hustle of daily life dissolves into the soft embrace of the interiors. The style ushers in an air of warmth, crafting spaces that are not just seen but felt, inviting you to unwind in an understated elegance and personal history that resonates with who you are and how you want to live,' adds Lauren.

What are the key design elements of cottage style?

There are a few design elements that are key to creating a successful scheme infused with cottage style. From the color palette and textures to the style of furniture, consider introducing elements that evoke a cozy atmosphere. 

Interior designer Anna Haines describes cottage style as 'comfortable, layered with textiles and antiques, nostalgic and inviting. I think it wants to feel friendly, unpretentious, and just nicely on the right side of worn!' This imperfect, lived-in approach to furniture and decor is key to the style, introducing a sense of rustic charm.

When choosing furniture that leans into cottage style, look for pieces that look and feel cozy and more traditional forms. Opt for 'comfortable and plush sofas, ottomans upholstered in antique textiles hardy enough for weary feet as well as heaps of books, wrought iron beds, and the odd battered leather armchair,' suggests Anna. 

As with all interior design styles, color is another design element that requires some attention. 'The cottage style is an eclectic blend of country living charm and calming hues to create a bucolic retreat. Blend easygoing off-whites and neutrals with paired down pastels to create a quaint color palette,' says Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore.

'Cottage style should include a charming mix of design elements. Favorites include whitewashed floors, timeworn cabinets, bead board, lots of fresh-cut flowers, and garden-fresh greenery,' she adds.

How to decorate with cottage style

1. Use neutral colors and earthy hues

The color you choose to paint a space impacts the atmosphere you create, so in a cottage style home, opt for a neutral color scheme, muted hues, and earthy tones for an authentic look. 

'Colors like Floral White OC-29, Sail Cloth OC-142 and Coastal Path AF-380 look beautiful on all four walls and on textured accents like bead board and shiplap,' says Arianna. 'The space should have character and feel well-loved and lived in. A crisp white paint color, like Super White OC-152, is a great option to layer in some additional contrast,' she adds.

This doesn't mean you have to stick to a white, minimalist palette. Injecting richer hues can add character and depth to a space, which is integral to cottage style. 'Warm earthy and rich tones to counter the more robust finishes you can often expect to find in cottages - bold yellows, muddy pinks, and deep reddish browns are a good starting point,' explains Anna.

2. Introduce a blend of old and new

To achieve a balance of cottage charm and timeless appeal, introduce a mix of older pieces with modern additions. 'Mix in those vintage finds with contemporary pieces, allowing the juxtaposition to create a space that is both timeless and deeply personal. As always, embrace the imperfect, celebrate the handcrafted, and let your space be a testament to the beauty of blending stories and styles,' advises Lauren.

When choosing newer items, look to pieces that are made to a high standard and that will not only last, but wear beautifully. 'As well as a well-curated selection of antiques, it can be helpful to consider a few bespoke pieces to make the most of narrow or smaller rooms, and usurp what may otherwise feel like dead spaces with just the right scale sofa or footstool,' suggests Anna.

3. Add ambient lighting

Introducing additional light sources can benefit cottage style interiors in a few ways. On one hand, they add that cozy ambiance that is core to the style. But they are also great for adding extra brightness in rooms that are on the smaller side or simply don't benefit from as much natural light.

'Try and limit the use of recessed ceiling lights (as often cottage ceilings can be quite low) in favor of table and standard lamps to give more dedicated pockets of light,' advises Anna. Add charming table lamps to cottage living rooms and bedside tables for an added glow, and opt for lampshades with color and pattern for added interest.

4. Opt for cozy furniture

Striking a balance between comfort and style can sometimes be tricky, but it's at the forefront of cottage style. Choose more traditional sofa styles upholstered in a soft, detailed fabric, and opt for antique tables and sideboards for timeless appeal.

'Furniture within the cottage style is a dialogue between time and texture, where each piece is chosen for its story and its ability to contribute to an overarching narrative of comfort and charm,' says Lauren. 'From rustic, weathered woods to the soft embrace of plush textiles, each piece is curated to add depth and personality to the space,' she adds.

5. Make a feature of unique architecture

Much of the charm associated with cottage style is the original features – think exposed brick walls and original ceiling beams. Allowing these components to really shine will add character to your home. 'Having the right bones to your home really helps. Exposed beams and brick walls are synonymous with cottage style,' adds Anna.

Alongside these features, older properties are likely to have some quirks to them, whether it's a slightly uneven wall or, more commonly, sloped ceilings. Instead of seeing them as a hindrance, think about how you can make them work in your design. 'Often bedroom or attic ceilings are sloping in cottages. We like to treat the walls and ceiling as one canvas in these instances and envelop the space in a small-scale wallpaper. It helps a room feel more seamless with no obvious full-stops,' she explains.

Creating a home with cottage style is simpler than you might think. Introduce elements that imbue coziness and charm, let original features and quirks shine, and mix antique pieces with modern additions for a timeless balance. The key is to create a home that feels lived-in and loved. We love cottage style for its character and homely appeal, so keep this in mind when designing your scheme.

Late winter is the ideal time to build plant supports and structures for the growing season ahead. When most perennials and bulbs are yet to arise, and the borders are stripped of greenery and color, take the time to create something special for your climbing roses and sweet peas to ramble over. 

As a gardener, I have built plant supports of all shapes and sizes in several gardens across Wales, England and Tuscany, and doing so never fails to add romance to a garden border. 

Using sustainably sourced wooden rods is one way to do this, creating natural plant supports that help to produce a cottage garden look. In addition, for gardeners wondering how to create a modern cottage garden look, structures in your borders that appear natural and artisanal can help, working in harmony with the wider landscape. 

Creating these structures takes time and some forward planning is required, but come summer when your perennials and climbers are growing through and over your creations, you will be glad to have done this preparatory work. 

Plant supports are important as they provide essential protection for annual and perennial planting in the spring and summer months. Gardeners, myself included, can often forget that high winds are not restricted to fall and winter, and sadly, they can be incredibly destructive. One strong gust is all it takes to topple your prized perennials and top-heavy flowers. 

Discover how to create simple but effective hazel plant supports in your garden borders this year.

How to build hazel plant support

Plant supports are important as they guide and protect your planting in the spring and summer months. Building your own plant supports by using sustainable and natural materials, like hazel, not only gives your perennials and climbers the structure they need but can also help to create an attractive cottage garden look. 

Why is hazel a good material to use?

Hazel is considered by gardeners to be the best material to make plant supports. It is flexible yet strong, offering both form and function when creating natural, often rounded shapes. 

Whether you want to build arches, obelisks, domes, or perhaps something more outlandish, hazel can be easily manipulated into organic shapes that complement your borders and backyard. As a natural material, it blends with the surroundings, evoking an artisanal, cottage garden look, and I think these structures enhance any garden space. 

Sourcing hazel should not be too difficult, and your local garden store may sell hazel rods or know of a supplier. Hazel is usually cut, or coppiced, in autumn and winter, whilst the trees are still dormant. Coppicing is a sustainable, and ancient practice, in that by cutting branches and stems down to the base of the tree, you stimulate new growth to be used in subsequent years.

The size and width of the hazel rods that you require will be determined by what you want to create. I would generally be looking for straight rods of hazel that gradually become thinner. The thicker end, the base, will provide good support and grounding, whilst the thinner, wispier end, will be more malleable, and help to create arches and other shapes at the top of your plant supports. 

Once you have sourced your hazel rods, you are ready to get creative. 

How to build hazel plant supports

Firstly, identify the areas in your backyard where you want to build your plant supports. For example, if you have a peony that is shooting, creating a dome that is 3 feet high is a great support for these top-heavy spring blooms. Alternatively, you might be building supports for annuals that are still growing safely in the warmth of the greenhouse. 

For a simple dome shape, I would choose 4 to 6 rods that are of equal straightness and width. Using clean, sharp secateurs, such as these pruning shears from Walmart, carefully remove any side shoots from the bottom 10-15 inches of the rods. Once cleared, make a diagonal cut at the bottom of the rod. This will make it easier to force the rod into the ground. 

Following this, carefully position the rods to create a circular shape, ensuring that each rod is paired with another rod found opposite. If you are creating a shape around a plant, such as a peony, ensure that the plant is in the middle of this circle. Once you are happy with the spacing, firm down the rods into the ground, ensuring that at least 5 inches of each rod is underground, helping to secure the structure. 

Slowly manipulate each rod, and in my experience, working slowly generates far better results, carefully bending each rod to meet the other found opposite. At this stage, you might find that you want the plant support to be slightly shorter. This is not a problem, and if you need to reduce the size of the rods, do so by lifting the rods and cutting at the base, rather than removing the thinner material at the top. 

If the rods are slightly stiff or rigid, I was taught many years ago to bend the hazel slightly, gently pushing it against your leg so as to release the tension, thus making it slightly easier to manipulate the hazel into the desired shape. Once you are happy with the arched shape and the point at which the rods meet, weave the hazel rods together, creating a natural bond by tying them together. At this point, I would add some additional support by using twine to tie the bent rods together, using something like this twine from Walmart. 

Once you have completed the first arch, the subsequent arches become easier, and as you tie these together, you increase the stability and strength of the structure. When complete, I always find that it helps to use any thin side shoots or additional stems of hazel to create at least one horizontal band around the structure, adding greater support for your plants as they grow. 

The same principles apply to archways or other shapes, and the more plant supports you build, the more confident you will be to create unique hazel masterpieces. 

FAQs

Can I use other coppiced wood to build plant supports?

Hazel is often considered the most effective coppiced wood to use for plant supports, due to its strength and flexibility. Young birch stems can also be used, as can willow. Whatever material you opt for, ensure that it has been sustainably sourced from your locality. If in doubt, consult your local garden store or look online for a local supplier.

How long will my hazel structure last for?

Hazel structures can last up to two years, although they will become brittle over the growing season and the warmer months. Eventually, they will begin to break and will need replacing. In order to cut back the plants and mulch the borders in the fall, you might find that it is easier to remove the hazel structures each year, and replace them as necessary. 

Creating hazel structures in your yard will not only support your plants in the growing season ahead but do so in a way that enhances the look and feel of your outdoor space. Consider other ideas for supporting climbing plants, creating even more vertical interest in your yard this year. 

Bee Osborn’s love of old buildings has spanned the past 35 years with nine renovation projects of her own. For the past seven years, her passion has focused on transforming two derelict Cotswold cottages into homes that blend historical architecture with contemporary house design. 

‘Since my youngest daughter moved to a school in the Cotswolds, this area has become our home, and rethinking these beautiful old buildings has been a labour of love,’ says the creative director of Osborn Interiors.

First it was The Old Post Office, which Bee renovated and sold, before turning her attention to The Old Bakery, built in the 1500s. Both properties had been left to decay as their previous long-term owners moved into care.

‘I found this house for sale by chance on a diverted road trip to my studio in Chipping Norton,’ says Bee. ‘A falling down, two-up-two-down cottage, hidden by brambles, but on a plot with huge potential.’

Fast forward two years – 15 months of which were spent living in a ‘craned-in’ shepherd’s hut in the garden, a customized beauty Bee added to the site to be close to the build and save on rental costs – she is now reaping the rewards of her vision. And the hut, complete with a wood burner, shower, kitchen, and outdoor bath, now forms a fourth-bedroom retreat.

Bee’s starting point for the redesign was that at home, luxury lies in the simple things: feeling connected to natural materials within the building and to nature outside. Along with the ability to accommodate her partner, three daughters, and their respective husbands and partners comfortably into the home.

This craving to connect all together in a more cozy and intimate way means Bee has worked hard to optimize footage. ‘A series of dilapidated garden buildings provided permission to extend the cottage with new, contemporary wood-clad exterior elevations so long as they sat within the parameters of the original cottage walls,’ says Bee.

To elevate a feeling of space, Bee dug down two metres and created a retaining wall along the boundary, as the foundations for a capacious family room and kitchen. This leads up to the adjoining dining room, in what was the original kitchen. 

Surrounded by metal-framed glazing on the south and east-facing sides, it has doubled their original 1,000sq ft living space, optimized light and created a connection to the newly landscaped terrace.

With a sense of tenacity in the face of planning delays, Bee has transformed a cold and draughty building into a thermally efficient home, reinstating the thatch and opening fireplaces, while adding woodburners and modern amenities that juxtapose beautifully with the historic architecture.

Natural materials balance high with low – plank-clad walls are paired with more affordable painted floorboards and soft natural plaster walls that evoke a sense of calm and luxury. Low-level lighting adds atmosphere, while hotelspec fixtures from Samuel Heath create a sense of welcome escape in the bedrooms.

‘It was a priority that each bedroom had its own bathroom – in the two old cottage bedrooms, I have squeezed in a micro shower and a roll-top bath; and in the new main suite, my end-of-bed roll-top bath feels decadent. The integrity of materials and handmade designs are investments that will stand the test of time.’

This house marks a new phase for Bee, and a desire to enjoy life’s simple pleasures – hardworking spaces that prioritise quality over quantity and the freedom to enjoy the people and things she loves.

Meet the owner

Bee Osborn shares her style inspiration

What is your favorite detail of the home?

The spice cupboard in the sitting room. Years ago, the cottage was a pub and the cavity behind the cupboard door was home to spices sold in the pub.

Can you reveal the biggest indulgence?

The Samuel Heath kitchen and bathroom taps.

What's your go-to color?

 Alfie’s Tail by Fenwick & Tilbrook.

Tell us one small change that has a huge impact?

Inside the cottage, it would be the reclaimed cladding in Cotswold Fleece by The Main Company.

Describe your style in three words.

 Calm, organic, luxury.

What one indulgence would you never forego?

 A real fire.

Any plans for future projects?

Never say never to another cottage renovation! Preserving the heart of these special Cotswold villages has become important to me. If they are not looked after, they will disappear.

An eccentric sea captain’ is how siblings Tom and Kate Cox of Hám Interiors describe the imaginary owner of this coastal home, a former net loft perched on the clifftop overlooking Trevone Bay in North Cornwall. ‘This is a holiday property but we designed it with a character in our minds,’ recounts Tom. ‘We wanted to acknowledge the seaside location, but we didn’t want to be too obvious. It’s so easy to overstep that line.’ 

There are no lighthouses or jaunty stripes in this house design. Instead, architectural details such as shiplap cladding and aged stone cobbles help to ground the building in its setting, while intriguing treasures including framed ships’ flags and a flock of decorative coastal birds suggest a collector with an eye for the unusual.

‘We had so much fun,’ says Kate. ‘Not many clients let you cover a room in wooden ducks and geese.’ The clients are Jessica and Ash Alken-Theasby, owners of Atlanta Trevone, a Victorian mansion with four luxury holiday rentals. The pair recently renovated all of the guest houses, opting to convert the dilapidated net loft to add a fifth property to the portfolio. 

‘When my great-uncle bought the guest house in the 1950s, he used to keep his little boats in this building,’ says Jessica. ‘I knew the loft would turn out to be Atlanta’s eccentric relative, and Tom and Kate were the perfect fit for creating a look that offers a sense of sheer escapism.’

Working with floor plans drawn up by architects Harrison Sutton, Tom and Kate collaborated closely with Jessica and Ash – who own bespoke construction company Alkenby – to rebuild the loft, fine-tuning every detail to create interiors that appear to have been there forever. 

Timber boards in the main living room are beautifully aged cheeseboards that were individually selected by Tom; the kitchen cabinetry features a scumble paint effect that nods to old mahogany furniture.

‘There is a folk art element to a lot of the joinery,’ says Kate, pointing out the cabin-style bed in the main bedroom, a playful piece that Jessica was initially hesitant about: ‘We went backwards and forwards with this idea as my practical brain told me it may not appeal to some guests, but everyone seems to love it,’ she notes.

The paint colors are predominantly blues and each tone was carefully chosen to complement the surroundings. ‘There is a powdery, mineral quality to the colors that creates warmth,’ explains Tom of the rich blue woodwork and pale blue walls in the entryway and living area.

‘On a lovely sunny day, it feels fresh and uplifting, but in the winter when you have the log burner going it is really cozy.’ The wall decor brings a sense of whimsy to the spaces and includes folk art, flags and signs, as well as commissioned pieces such as maritime paintings that reference the naivety of sailors’ woolwork.

In the surf gallery, where guests can park their cars and hang wetsuits to dry, a Californian vibe pervades, thanks to a wall that showcases a carved marlin trophy and a vintage Tigger Newling surfboard belonging to Jessica’s father, who lives in the village.

Before it opened for business, the couple and their two young sons took the opportunity to stay in the loft and Jessica recalls the magic of experiencing it through her children’s eyes: ‘It was like a wonderful journey, as if we had dived into something completely exciting and unknown.’

Meet the designers

Kate and Tom Cox of Hám Interiors share their style inspiration 

MOST SUCCESSFUL ASPECT OF THIS PROJECT
The playful storytelling. 

SMALL CHANGE, BIG IMPACT
The scumble paint finish on the kitchen cabinets, applied by our artisan decorator during installation. It transformed the space. 

GO-TO COLOUR
An earthy red.

YOUR STYLE IN THREE WORDS
Eclectic, timeless, whimsical. 

INSPIRATION
As a family business, we constantly inspire each other with different design ideas and tastes. It creates a shared vision driven by our collective influences. 

MUSEUM TO VISIT
Lytes Cary Manor, Somerset, with its arts and crafts-style garden. 

LAST PURCHASE
A vintage lumberjack’s axe from America. 

A HOME SHOULD BE…
Comfortable, relaxed and not taken too seriously. 

Many of us dream about owning a picturesque country cottage in the English countryside, filled with beautiful antiques and period features, and over the last few years, an English country style has been a leading look in the world of interior design. 

As much as we love to dream, the reality is, not all of us live in cozy cottages in rural England, but fear not city dwellers, no matter what country you live in or the age and style of your home, there are a few easy ways you can recreate the English cottage aesthetic in your space. 

From classic cottage decorating ideas that embrace plenty of natural materials such as wood and stone, to enhancing your home with traditional patterns and prints, we've asked a collection of interior designers to share their best advice for recreating an English cottage look – no matter what style of home you live in.

Interior designers share how they create an English cottage style

'The English cottage style is a charming and cozy aesthetic, drawing on inspiration from quaint cottages found in rural Britain. Leaning into rustic finishes and natural elements, such as exposed wood, stone fireplaces and soft furnishings made from linen, country decorating ideas and English cottagecore interiors resemble a lived-in, storybook feel,' says Jessica Hanley, founder of Piglet in Bed.

1. Embrace a characterful mix of patterns and prints

One of the easiest ways you can bring a dose of English cottage charm into your interior space is by decorating with pattern. 

From decorating with stripes and decorating with gingham to embracing patterns and prints designs from iconic British designers, such as William Morris, and institutions such as Liberty London, these designs can be used across wallpaper ideas, furniture, soft furnishings and even through artwork and accessories.

Jessica Hanley from Piglet in Bed says, 'When it comes to upholstery, nostalgic prints like gingham, stripes, and dainty florals, delivered in a soft and warm color palette, feature within this story-infused decor style – and don't be scared to clash prints and fabrics; that’s all part of the English cottage charm.'

We love the use of pattern and color in this cottage living room space, designed by Sarah Vanrenen, which features an Isabelle Small Original Wallpaper design.

2. Use plenty of natural materials

'Years ago when cottages were built in the countryside, homeowners used wood from the surrounding area to build furniture. While I love painted furniture and have it all throughout my home, I try to incorporate a lot of natural wooden pieces as well for that English country cottage look,' says home decorating expert, Andrea Francavilla.

We adore the use of natural materials in this cottage kitchen, designed by British Standard. From the mix of wood finishes used across the kitchen cabinets, wall paneling and dining furniture, to the traditional terracotta tiles on the floor, the result establishes a wonderfully rustic look – but with a charming, colorful edge.

As well as materials such as wood and stone, embrace tactile natural textures such as wool and linen. In this kitchen, kitchen rug ideas and valance ideas for kitchens have been used to add a sense of softness to the space, with these details helping to create that cozy, cottage feel.

As Jessica Hanley says, 'Layer plenty of soft furnishings, and differing textures like throws, quilts, and bedding made from natural fabrics such as linen or cotton.'

3. Create a cozy-country look in a bathroom

'A cottage bathroom should evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. Look for materials that defuse light and create a relaxing ambiance,' says Emma Joyce, brand manager at Victoria + Albert Baths. 'When choosing your bathroom fixtures and fittings, matt is preferable to gloss, creating a surface that feels warm to the touch and gentle on the skin. A traditional roll-top bath with clawed feet for your bathtub ideas is an obvious choice, but more contemporary designs that have natural, organic shapes will also work perfectly.'

As well as making your bathroom cozy, your chosen bathroom tile ideas can have a big impact on the overall style of your space, as designer, Petra Palumbo explains. 

'Originally found in grand 18th and 19th century English houses, the resurgence of Delft tiles is yet another example of the country house aesthetic finding its place in today’s homes. Tapping into the new mood for thoughtful, purpose-led designs with a nostalgic yet modern aesthetic, Delft tiles have a universal appeal, because anyone can apply the designs to their lives. Each combination of motif or illustration is entirely personal, and often deeply sentimental, reflecting the move towards characterful, individual interiors.'

4. Make the most of your fireplace

Fireplaces have provided natural focal points and warming areas to gather in homes for centuries, and no classic English cottage would be without a cozy armchair beside a traditional fireplace.

Interior designer, Courtney Wollersheim says, 'For an English country cottage look that overflows in quaintness, spend time on making the hearth a focal point in the room with a brick or white-washed stone surround, antique vintage fireplace accessories, a healthy mantel with vintage frames, and black and white photos.'

If you have a fireplace in your home, then be sure to make the most of this design feature, but if you are without, then of course, do not worry – you don't need to install a fireplace to nail the English country cottage look!

5. Style your space with hand-crafted, thoughtful decorations

'The charm and character found in antique items is hard to replicate, and English cottage style is almost impossible to achieve without decorating with vintage and decorating with antiques. One easy decorating idea that is so simple and affordable is to decorate with books. I love using vintage books throughout my decor, and the best place to find them is usually at thrift shops,' says Andrea Francavilla.

She continues, 'Showcasing collections of decorations can also work wonderfully for this style. If you have a beautiful set of bone china, vintage artwork, old books, or even antique breadboards, display them for all to see.'

6. Look to the beauty of the natural world for inspiration

At the heart of all county interiors is, you've guessed it, the beauty of the natural world and surrounding rural landscape. 

Creating an inviting and grounding indoor-outdoor feel through natural materials, earthy, warming color palettes, and patterns and prints that celebrate nature, is one of the most important parts of an English cottage style.

From embracing a ditsy wallpaper print for floral room decor, to embracing the rustic, natural beauty of wood for your furniture, the natural world will always provide a source of inspiration for a cozy, cottage feel.

FAQs

Another decorating style that shares many of the same elements as English cottage style is farmhouse decor.  We further delve into the look in our dedicated feature, is farmhouse decor still on trend?

Courtney Smith’s adobe hacienda, located in the hills of Marin County, California, with views over the East Bay, both surprises and delights. The home’s Spanish-influenced architecture is not common in northern California, nor is the bold interior within that sings with color and pattern.

‘A mash up of East Coast traditional and California cool’ is how Courtney of Courtney B. Smith Design describes her style. And it is a heady mix. ‘The East Coast with its sense of history appreciates provenance, while the West Coast is more casual, approachable and easy breezy,’ she says. ‘In the West, we really connect our interiors to our exteriors, but I use more pattern and color than many Californian designers, with my house designs informed as much by their settings as they are by specific fabrics and wallpapers.’

The love affair with the house began in 2016 when Courtney ‘was craving a project’ and she and her husband Greg and their children Jackie, now 15, and Drew, now 12, first viewed the property. 

The cottage had been built in the 1950s, with a wonky extension added in the 1980s. ‘It hadn’t been touched in 35 years but it had great bones,’ says Courtney. ‘Greg and I love Santa Barbara but for us northern California is home. The house’s Spanish-style architecture and tiled roof reminded us of the properties there - they have a very particular aesthetic. Our dream was to create a home that was reminiscent of Santa Barbara, using the property’s hacienda bones as inspiration.’

With help from architect Jessica Fairchild of Fairchild Broms Design, they spent three years planning a renovation that maximized the beautiful views. The plan was to double the house’s size while merging the old and new, creating a property that felt like it had always been there.

The 1980s extension was torn down but the original hacienda with its adobe walls remained intact because each wall was interconnected. ‘Greg and I have traveled in Europe and we’ve always been inspired by the patina of homes that have been lived in for generations. It’s hard to buy that here,’ Courtney says.

She then had to rework every space in the charming older part to serve the family’s needs. ‘We wanted something that would be cozy for our family but also accommodate large groups for entertaining.’

The spaces flow beautifully with the focus on sightlines from one room to the next as Courtney selected wallcoverings, fabrics, furnishings and lighting. ‘I love a challenge, and used different textural and patterned wallcoverings throughout, broken up with some white V-groove walls and original adobe, also painted white,’ explains Courtney.

The starting point for the interior was the statement Josef Frank wallpaper in the kitchen. ‘It’s a traditional 1940s pattern and features citrus trees, which I’ve always loved and which we have in our front yard,’ says Courtney. ‘The decor was then all created around what made sense in the next space, working from the Josef Frank pattern.’

A blend of old and new furniture enhances the relaxed, eclectic look. ‘I have a lot of treasures from my family and Greg really appreciates antiques, too, but we mixed it up with new items.’ 

The design of the interior has a nod to practicality, too. ‘It’s really nice to live in spaces that have color and pattern,’ notes Courtney. ‘Not only does it help hide inevitable wear and tear in a busy home and gives decorating more longevity but it adds an energy to a space. I’ve always loved color – it inspires me.’

MEET THE DESIGNER
Courtney Smith shares her style inspiration 

SMALL CHANGE, BIG IMPACT
It is always the last 10 per cent that really finishes a space – custom lampshades, throws and decorative cushions, trays and accessories.

GO-TO COLOUR
Different shades of green. 

FAVOURITE DESIGN DETAIL
Decorative trim on drapes, contrast welt on chair cushions, custom lampshades. 

DESIGN HERO
Albert Hadley. 

YOUR STYLE IN THREE WORDS
Joyful, timeless, memorable. INSPIRATION Colour combinations found in nature, 1940s decor, fancy hotel bars. 

I KNOW I’M A CREATIVE BECAUSE…
My creative outlet is creating homes. HOME MAKES ME FEEL Happy. 

SECRET ADDRESS
Elsie Green in northern California.

When Martha Stewart moved into her 1870s Hamptons cottage, it was in need of renovation – and that was exactly what it received. Together with celebrated contractor Ben Krupinski, Martha created a home that closely resembled the original property – with a modern, multifunctional twist. And nothing showcases this ideology quite as successfully as her cottage porch. 

Though Martha sold the Lily Pond Lane property in 2021, the open porch remains a source of inspiration for anyone looking to extend their living (or dining) spaces – especially in homes with more compact room proportions. 

In sharing the porch (below), Martha explained that she created a three-season room with a dining area by enclosing an open porch off the kitchen – and it offers a lesson in dining room design, whether we're working with a cozy cottage or not. 

Martha incorporated a floor made from teal-blue Mexican cement tiles to decorate her dining space while allowing the porch's natural wooden tones to take center stage on the walls. She dressed the room with vintage Grange, painted in a pale green hue, to complement the teal floor further.

In terms of accessories, Martha adorns her mahogany shelves with her trove of aqua McCoy pottery that sits above American-made shop-style metal cabinets.

But how did the space come to exist in her cottage? Martha's blog explains that she and Ben Krupinski 'enclosed a covered porch off the kitchen to create a dining area' before wainscoting many of the ceilings. They also 'knocked down walls to create a larger living room and luxe primary suite' – accentuating the cottage space yet further. 

'It's an old-fashioned house, but it has a clean, pristine vibe,' she says. To furnish this space (and every other room), Martha shopped at yard sales and antique shops that gradually filled the home 'with collections of mercury glass, McCoy pottery, and jadeite dishes.'

Between coffee alongside her pottery-filled shelves and dinner parties on her pale green chairs, Martha adds that she spent her Hamptons days at the beach, having lunch, and visiting Amagansett or Montauk nearby her cottage – usually all accessed by bike. 

'We'd ride everywhere – to Nick & Toni's, to the Clam Bar on Montauk Highway, to the ferry to Shelter Island,' Martha says. 

To get the Martha-approved look, we're investing in McCoy pottery, just like the ones seen on her shelving, via Etsy below.

'Chaos gardening' is a term that has been widely talked about since the UK's famous Chelsea Flower Show earlier in summer. But what is chaos gardening, and should you embrace this new garden trend? 

In short, chaos gardening can be described as purposeful disorganization: you simply gather up unused seeds and plants, scatter them randomly and see what takes. If done correctly, chaos gardening can create the effect of a wild, natural cottage garden which can be more enchanting than overly structured flower beds. Think of it as pressing shuffle on your plant beds.

'I saw some gorgeous examples of chaos gardens at Chelsea Flower Show in London this year,' says Lucy Searle, Homes & Gardens' Editor in Chief. 'Cottage gardens plants are, of course, flushed with a range of colors and textures, and are amongst the best plants for pollinators. Whether you want to dedicating your entire yard, a corner of your garden or fill in some empty patches, the chaos gardening technique can be a low-effort, lovely way to do so.'

Here, we look at the techniques, pros and cons of chaos gardening. 

How to do chaos gardening?

Chaos gardening is certainly one of the easiest and most low-maintenance garden border idea, and is a great practical use for all your spare seeds or the seeds you are planning to harvest from your flowers. 

Simply combine a wide range of seeds – they don't even need to be all flower seeds, you can also use seeds for herbs, grasses, vegetables, fruit or whatever you have lying around. Mix them around and scatter them on your allotted garden space. 

The results should create an effortlessly breath-taking natural garden space, brimming with color, texture and smells that will attract bees and attract butterflies to your garden.

Chaos gardening can be perfect for gardening amateurs, and to make it even easier, find some of the best plants for beginners to make planting and tending to your garden simple. 

'While chaos may sound like "anything-goes" it still pays to plan your ideals for the space, whether in terms of color, purpose, or management. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to gardening and each packet of seed in your possession will have slightly different likes and dislikes,' says H&G's garden expert Drew Swainston.

'Either dedicate a small section to chaos gardening as an experiment, or do lots of different zones with a bespoke mix for each, rather than dedicating a large space for this style straight off the bat.' 

There are a few different techniques you can put into practice when chaos gardening. Although you can simply combine and spread your seeds without a second thought, you may also want to plan out your chaos garden a bit more. 

How to 'plan' your chaos garden

Plan zones

While chaos gardening is all about creating a natural look, you can plan certain zones where you want particular flowers or plants to dominate and randomly plant the rest elsewhere. 

'Think of the combinations of height, spread, and color that will work and look good, and make little mixes of complementary blends of plants to spread around together. Planned mixes of seeds for different zones of the garden are more likely to guarantee success than blindly emptying packets of seed around,' says Drew Swainston.

Plan a color scheme

You could also be particular about the tones and colors or heights of plants you want to use, such as choosing to chaos plant a selection of plants with complementary or layered heights, textures and colors. This is a great way to introduce a garden color scheme.

Work around a hard landscaped structure

Finally, you may consider structuring the garden beds by using hardscaping features such as a rock garden, a container garden, water features or simply hanging baskets to create zones.

Embrace weeds

Chaos gardening also, involves embracing weeds (within reason), provided you deem them pretty enough. Dandelions were proudly featured amongst some gardens in the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. 

The pros and cons of chaos gardening

It's low maintenance

Planting out seeds, nurturing seedlings then transferring them to borders is time-consuming. Chaos gardening skips those stages and, because of the style of borders it's aimed at creating, you don't have to plan in lots of maintenance and upkeep.

It's great for bio-diversity

Pollinator-friendly, it's as close to rewilding as many gardeners want to get.

But...

It's not no-maintenance

Although this is certainly a low maintenance way to garden, it is slightly different to rewilding which emphasizes letting nature completely take its course. You don't want to lose control of the flowers' growth entirely, for example if you are letting dandelions grow in your chaos garden, be aware they are quite successful at multiplying and are very resilient, so they can take over if you don't keep them in check. 

Additionally, some plants may dominate the space is they aren't controlled which can counter the all-inclusive display you were planning.

Your chaos will need to be selective

This means you may want to be somewhat selective about what proportions of various seeds you put into the mix. If you want a lot of colorful flowers and fewer grassy or weedy plants then make sure you have thought ahead. 

Some seeds will be wasted

Another thing to consider is that the seeds you are planting need to be equipped to deal with your local environment, including the type of soil you are sowing them in and the climate. Otherwise, it's likely they won't take and you'll be left with bare patches.

Watering might be tricky 

Chaos gardens also make watering a bit more tricky. Since most plants have different watering needs and can suffer if they are under or overwatered, the general rule with chaos gardens is to water them at regular intervals, and to only water them a small amount. 

'Make sure to scatter types that like the same soil or the same level of watering, this will make things easier in the long run and hopefully guarantee a display. Mix moisture-loving plants with ones that like it dry and you are more than likely to sufficiently satisfy either,' advises Drew Swainston.

Fertilizing will be tricky, too

You should also do the same with fertilizing. As always, pay attention to how your plants respond to how much water they are receiving – you may have to reassess if they are looking wilted.

One top trick: if you are worried about caring for a whole range of plants with different needs is to group those with similar water requirements and growing habits, which may make it a bit easier to provide them with the proper care.

Plants might get overcrowded

A potential downside of chaos gardening is you will need to make sure the plants aren't suffering due to a potential overcrowding. Plants need good circulation to promote water evaporation to reduce the risk of fungal infections. Plus, if plants are growing over one another some may not receive the light and water they need. You should, therefore, monitor the plants to make sure they all have space to thrive and to remove any infected plants.

FAQs

Whether your chaos garden is the main showpiece in your yard or it's just a pretty low maintenance garden border, this is a truly inspiring gardening idea.

Chaos gardening should also add versatility to the layout of your plants, but also, over time, you'll find the whole appearance of your garden will transform and evolve. This is because many of the plants you will have in your chaos garden will have different germination rates and will grow at different speeds. The plants create a self-sustaining ecosystem, and hopefully many of them will naturally reseed themselves. 

This week, Atlanta-based Morse Design shared an exciting look into a cottage designed by Joanna Gaines on Instagram. We have no further details, other than what we can see, but we can say that the design is the perfect mix for a tiny home – and one that small home dwellers might like to copy when decorating their small spaces to make them feel bigger and airier. Plus, it cleverly combines Joanna's inimitable modern farmhouse aesthetic with elements of cottage decor, seamlessly integrating authentic rustic features, such as the exposed wooden beams and stove fireplace with the modern, cozy elements.

Alongside the post, Morse Design commented, 'SUNDAY HOUSE TOUR! @joannagaines created the perfect little cottage! It has everything you need for a couple of days or a lifetime. A fully loaded kitchen that not only takes advantage of every square inch but is beautiful, too! An inviting bathroom with tons of natural light. And a hangout area that’s warm and comfy. All the comforts of home in this cute, little cottage! What’s your favorite part?'

It's hard to pick a single favorite part, since each room is so individually striking, so our editors have selected our top three. You can slide across the carousel to match the pictures to the commentary. 

Get the look

1. Fit horizontal, pale exterior paneling to exaggerate width

The house is as eye-catching from the outside as it is inside, with elegant light gray wood paneling and white-framed windows and porch to create a classic country aesthetic with a contemporary appeal. 

'The horizontal layout of the boards and the just-right shade of gray do much to exaggerate the width of the cottage and to balance out the relatively steep pitch of the roof,' says Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Gardens' Digital Editor.

The beautiful porch adorns the front of the home. 'The use of long flower container helps to exaggerate the breadth of the house, and creates a zen space to relax and feel in touch with nature, and is a very in-keeping feature to display summer porch decor,' continues Jen. 

'Joanna has also effectively incorporated authentic, small details into the front of the house, such as the black lamps above the front door, and the black railings which tie in with the black metal porch chairs, creating a coherent theme, all of which creates a feeling of space.'

2. Choose repeated motifs and patterns to enhance space

'The kitchen is a prime example of how to make a small cottage kitchen feel spacious and open through repetition,' says Jo Bailey, Homes & Gardens' Print Editor. 'Joanna's effective use of wooden panels that feature on the house's exterior is repeated vertically in the kitchen to draw the eye upwards to increase the impression of ceiling height. These white wooden ceiling panels are echoed by the country-style kitchen island that tones perfectly with the color of the wooden floor. 

'The pendant lighting over the island matches the wall color perfectly so there's no visual interruption across the space, again, heightening the feeling of space.

'The arched undersides of the kitchen island mirror the wooden arches between the rooms, which is a clever touch that creates a harmony and repetition between original features of the cottage with the new, sleek design.

'Joanna also ties together smaller features in the kitchen by using a brass finish on the kitchen island stools, drawer handles, faucets, lamps, and rail,' continues Jo.

'The dark green kitchen drawers bring the green of nature outside into the house; Joanna's use of plants throughout the property makes the most of the lovely natural landscape beyond the windows. I'd always recommend finding the best indoor plants for a tiny house to elevate any space small space.'

3. Be clever with a small bathroom layout

'Tiny bathroom layouts are often space-compromised, and this one has the added complication of a huge window. The benefit is the space-enhancing natural light that floods in but it does rob the room of useful wall space,' says Lucy Searle, Homes & Gardens' Editor in Chief. 'However, Joanna has cleverly mitigated this with a storage-packed double vanity, with wall-mounted bathroom vanity mirrors that can be angled for use. 

'Joanna has also balanced the white walls and countertop with the natural wooden drawers and vanity to create a warm yet modern feel. Again, the materials and fittings used are coherent with those in the rest of the house, which helps this tiny home feel elegant and curated.'

That's our top three, but let's not overlook the homey living room, in which Joanna again uses horizontal wooden panels on the window seat with white wooden paneling repeated on the wall. This cozy space is a beautiful place for reading and makes hosting so much more fun. The white arched fireplace is effectively minimalist and creates a great centerpiece within the room, with a white tiled section, to make it subtly stand out. 

This truly inviting property that has comfort, practical spaces, and consistent, recurring themes to tie the whole property together is a key example of how to make a tiny home feel larger.

One of the most recognizable garden plants, lavender can greatly enhance the pleasure your backyard brings, but do you know about their different varieties?

All lavender varieties are neat-growing, aromatic, drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, evergreen shrubs that appreciate good drainage and plenty of sunshine. Though they vary in size from 14in-4ft, many are highly suited to borders, path edging, and low hedges, plus patio pots and large containers. An essential ingredient in many fragrances, new varieties feature a higher oil content, plus attractive foliage and improved hardiness. Most have gray foliage that sets off their purple, lavender, pink, or white flowers prettily. 

Most types of lavender fall into two groups. Hardy lavenders are those that are rated by the USDA as Zone 5 or above. These are mainly derived from the Mediterranean Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) and from L. x intermedia (lavandin).

For those keen to grow lavender, hardy types make fine small specimens. They create attractive edging for garden paths and driveways, and they are the richest in aromatic oils.

Patio lavenders are less hardy (USDA H7), but can be moved into a cold greenhouse, sunroom, or sunroom for winter. Lavenders grown in containers need warmer winter temperatures than they would in the ground. Patio lavenders are derived from L. dentata with toothed leaves, L. lanata with woolly leaves, plus L. pedunculata (Spanish lavender), L. stoechas (French lavender) and lemon-scented L. viridis (green lavender).

14 modern and classic lavender varieties for every garden

This selection of some of the best lavender features new varieties bred specifically for variegated foliage and extra hardiness, as well as the best fragrant flowers you can grow. 

‘The large diversity of lavenders offers a range of suitable growing conditions,’ says Jim & Dotti Becker of Goodwin Creek Gardens in Oregon. ‘You can’t grow all lavender varieties in all parts of the US, but with planning there is a lavender for everyone.’ Try ‘Nana Alba’ and ‘Sweet Romance’ for windowboxes, ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Imperial Gem’ for hedges, and ‘Meerlo’ and ‘Tiara’ for a patio pot. 

New varieties arrive in garden centers and nurseries every year, yet some of the golden oldies are still among the best.

• Shop lavender at Amazon
• Shop lavender at Burpee
• Shop lavender at Nature Hills

1. Lavender BeeZee Series

• Type: Lavandula angustifolia
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 15in
• Good for: Low hedges, containers, drought gardens

The BeeZee Series of lavender varieties are some of the hardiest you can grow. They are ideal for drought-tolerant planting ideas as well as containers and low hedges. They form a series of five matching compact, prolific and early flowering varieties. These lavenders produce flowers in three shades of blue, plus pink and white.

2. Lavender ‘Goodwin Creek Gray’

• Type: Lavandula dentata hybrid
• Hardiness: USDA Z7
• Height: 3ft
• Good for: Patio and deck containers

If you are looking for the best patio plants as well as the best lavender options, this is an excellent choice for patio and deck containers. Foliage with this lavender, discovered in Oregon, can be both untoothed and toothed in silvery gray. The flowers, stems and spikes of ‘Goodwin Creek Gray’ are unusually long and topped with violet sails. 

• Shop for ‘Goodwin Creek Gray’ at Goodwin Creek Gardens

3. Lavender ‘Hidcote’

• Type: Lavandula angustifolia
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 26-30in
• Good for: Hedges, dry gardens, Mediterranean gardens

‘Hidcote’ is another of the hardiest types of lavender you can grow and it has been popular for over a hundred years. It works especially well with other Mediterranean plants, as well as dry gardens and hedges. This is one of the classic lavender varieties with dense spikes of violet flowers held above slender, grey-green leaves. ‘Hidcote Giant’ is different, with floppier growth. 

• Shop for ‘Hidcote’ at Walmart

4. Lavender ‘Imperial Gem’

• Type: Lavandula angustifolia
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 26-30in
• Good for: Hedges, dry gardens, Mediterranean gardens

Compact, bushy and hardy, ‘Imperial Gem’ is one of the most intensely colored lavender varieties in our selection. If you are looking for richly toned purple plants then this is one of the best lavender options you can try. The dense spikes of deep violet flowers are darker in color than those of ‘Hidcote’ and the leaves are more silvery. Ideal for dry gardens, hedges and Mediterranean plantings.

• Shop for ‘Imperial Gem’ at Etsy

5. Lavender Javelin Series

• Type: Lavandula stoechas
• Hardiness: USDA Z8
• Height: 14-20in
• Good for: Patio and deck containers

These types of lavender are perfect if you are growing herbs in pots and need something for a patio or deck container. Two series make up this group: Forte and Compact. Varieties in the Javelin Forte Series make slightly larger plants than the Javelin Compact Series. The Javelin Forte Series of lavenders are also ideal for beds, borders and dwarf hedging. All are unusually disease resistant.

• Shop for Javelin Forte at White Flower Farm

6. Lavender Little Lady (‘Batlad’)

• Type: Lavandula angustifolia
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 20in
• Good for: Very low hedges, window boxes, individual pots

Little Lady (‘Batlad’) is an excellent hardy garden lavender. It is perfect for tidy yet attractive lawn edging ideas, as it is neat and compact in growth, and naturally bushy without pruning. This is amongst the best lavender varieties for window boxes and low hedges. Its lilac-blue flower spikes rise above unusually glossy green foliage which is more aromatic than most.

7. Lavender ‘Meerlo’

• Type: Lavandula dentata hybrid
• Hardiness: USDA Z9
• Height: 40in
• Good for: Pots on the patio or deck

‘Meerlo’ is one of the best lavender varieties if you want ornamental shrubs for containers you can keep on a patio or deck. Fragrant and variegated, its foliage is quite a departure from a lot of other lavenders you might recognize. Each grey-green toothed leaf is edged in cream, topped by spikes of pale blue flowers on long stems.

8. Lavender ‘Miss Katherine’

• Type: Lavandula angustifolia
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 2ft
• Good for: Hedges, dry gardens, Mediterranean gardens

Another of the finest hardy garden lavenders, ‘Miss Katherine’ is also amongst the best drought tolerant herbs you can grow as part of hedges or dry gardens. These types of lavender are some of the darkest pinks available, and very prolific. Individual flowers have a neat star-shaped mark, and the grey-green leaves are very aromatic.

• Shop for ‘Miss Katherine’ at Goodwin Creek Gardens

9. Lavender ‘Nana Alba’

• Type: Lavandula angustifolia
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 12in
• Good for: Very low hedges, window boxes, individual pots

If you are looking for unusual lavender varieties to harmonize with white garden ideas or silver color themes, this is one of the best lavender options. ‘Nana Alba’ is a fine hardy lavender for window boxes and very low hedges. This dwarf and bushy variety has unusually broad, highly aromatic foliage in a pretty grey-green shade that sets off flowers nicely. 

• Shop for dwarf ‘Nana Alba’ at Goodwin Creek Gardens

10. Lavender Phenomenal (‘Niko’)

• Type: Lavandula x intermedia
• Hardiness: USDA Z4
• Height: 3-4ft
• Good for: Drought gardens, growing with roses

Phenomenal (‘Niko’) is one of the best types of lavender for drought gardens and does well in the west and south. It is also one of the most striking plant partners if you are interested in dramatic rose garden ideas for cottage gardens and modern themes. Long, slender, purplish blue flower spikes are held above silver foliage on large plants that are unusually tolerant of heat and humidity.

• Shop for Phenomenal at Burpee

11. Lavender Sensational (‘Tesseract’)

• Type: Lavandula x intermedia
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 2-3ft
• Good for: Drought gardens, small specimens, large containers

Another of the best lavender options for drought tolerant plants for pots, Sensational (‘Tesseract’) is also excellent for drought gardens. They are also great lavender varieties to grow as small specimens. Narrow, brightly silvered foliage makes for very attractive plants. In spring and summer, you will be treated to densely packed purple flower spikes.

• Shop for Sensational at Nature Hills

12. Lavender Sweet Romance (‘Kerlavangem’)

• Type: Lavandula angustifolia
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 12-16in
• Good for: Edging, very low hedges, patio pots

Lavenders for containers don’t come much better than Sweet Romance (‘Kerlavangem’). This compact lavender is ideal for patio planting ideas as well as pots, low hedges and edging. Its low, grey-green mound of foliage is topped by an unusually long season of deep purple flowers. These types of lavender will start flowering before most varieties. Flowers open low on stems for a richer display.

• Shop for Sweet Romance at Plant Addicts

13. Lavender ‘Tiara’

• Type: Lavandula viridis hybrid
• Hardiness: USDA Z7
• Height: 26in
• Good for: Pots on the patio or deck, sunny gravel gardens 

If you are looking for dramatic lavender varieties for dramatic garden color schemes then ‘Tiara’ is ideal. This is also one of the best lavender options for vibrant patio or deck-based container gardening, as well as sunny gravel gardens. Its playful flowerheads feature a vivid combination of rich blue flowers topped with white sails tinted green at the base.

14. Lavender ‘Willow Vale’

• Type: Lavandula stoechas hybrid
• Hardiness: USDA Z7
• Height: 20in
• Good for: Patio and deck containers, and sunny, sheltered borders, gravel gardens

‘Willow Vale’ is one of the most vigorous lavender varieties and another excellent choice for patio and deck containers. This strong-growing lavender is also ideal for delicate gravel garden ideas and sunny, sheltered borders. These two-toned types of lavender feature grey-green foliage and long, slightly crinkled sails topping each violet flower head.

The rich diversity of lavender varieties means that whichever breed you choose, you are helping to add color and character to your plot. You are also helping to attract pollinators and wildlife by growing enduring sensory garden plants that will reward you with fragrance for years to come. Also, once you harvest lavender, you can use it decoratively at cut flowers, as a fragrant edible in the kitchen garden, or homeopathically as an ingredient in essential oils.  

Hollyhocks are often spotted gracing a sunny backyard wall, standing proud and tall with their satin-like blooms. They are a classic addition to English-garden planting schemes and offer a range of pretty shades, from deep purple to pale lemon and peach.

Growing hollyhocks from seed is relatively easy, but you can often find them as plug plants or as larger, pot-grown plants in garden centers, too. Mostly biennial, hollyhocks don't flower the first year but they can reach great heights in their second year – 'up to 9ft tall depending on the variety,' says John Negus, a gardening expert. Because of the prevalence of hollyhock rust, a fungal disease, even perennial forms are often treated as biennials and then disposed of before they start to look unhealthy. 'However, I have seen clumps flowering year after year and they are magnificent, if slightly tatty,' says John.

Either way, they make excellent additions to the back of a border or to add interest to a fence, or even in deep pots as part of a patio container display. Plus, bees and butterflies adore the single-bloom varieties.

Hollyhocks key facts

• Ease of growing: Easy
• Plant type: Hardy biennials or short-lived perennials
• Mature size: Up to 9ft
• Soil preference: Fertile and well-drained
• Best grown in: Full sun
• Time to plant: Early summer or fall
• Peak season: Flowers from summer into fall
• Hardiness zones: USDA 3-8
• Scientific name: Alcea
• Common name: Hollyhock

Where to plant hollyhocks

Plants in pastel shades, such as 'Peaches 'n Dreams' hollyhocks from Nature Hills, perfectly suit an informal, romantic scheme, alongside delphiniums, peonies, and sweet peas. Bolder colors, on the other hand, are brilliant in modern gardens for a splash of drama. Try the 'Chaters Pink' hollyhock from Burpee for vibrant, ruffled, pom-pom-like blooms.

For the best results, there are a few things to bear in mind when picking a spot for these plants. 'Hollyhocks thrive in well-drained soil that's been enriched with compost or organic matter,' says gardening expert Tony O'Neill. 'They tolerate a wide pH range, but slightly alkaline soil is preferred.'

They like plenty of sunshine, and benefit from a sheltered spot, too, which will protect their long stems from blowing over in the wind.

When and how to plant hollyhocks

According to the Royal Horticultural Society, plug plants should be potted on into larger, 4in pots to establish a good root system. When they're ready to plant into their final position outdoors, in either early summer or early fall, space them around 24in apart. As they are hardy plants, they won't need protection from frost.

Improve the soil by digging in some garden compost, first. Water them in thoroughly after planting. 'Given their height, hollyhocks often require some structural support to stay upright,' adds Tony. 'Paired with soft ties, sturdy garden stakes or bamboo canes can help prevent damage from winds.'

Seeds can be sown undercover in spring, or directly into the ground in early summer.

How to care for hollyhocks

As long as you provide supports in exposed backyards and keep an eye out for the common problems listed below, hollyhocks don't require much in the way of maintenance.

In terms of watering, they are fairly drought-tolerant once established. 'Hollyhocks prefer a deep watering at the root rather than a sprinkle from above,' says Tim Graham from YardandGardenGuru.com.

Fertilizing hollyhocks is a good idea. A light application of fertilizer in spring can promote better blooms – Tony recommends a balanced, slow-release one with an NPK ratio of around 10-10-10. You'll find the breakdown of plant fertilizer numbers listed on the product packaging.

Cutting back the stems once the plants have flowered will neaten up the appearance. You can use a pair of sharp and clean pruners to do so. However, wait for the seeds to develop and ripen first if you want the plants to self-seed, or if you plan to collect them for sowing elsewhere.

How to propagate hollyhocks

If you have grown a large hollyhock, with several shoots appearing from the base, you could propagate it by division. Do this in spring, advises John Negus, 'when the soil is warming nicely and the plant has started to grow again.

'Lift it carefully and split it into several well-rooted and budded portions,' he instructs. 'Replant them in organically rich soil.'

Alternatively, you can propagate your hollyhocks from seed. They are prolific self-seeders, but for a bit more control over where they end up, you can collect the seeds once they have ripened and sow them yourself. 'They will turn brown and be easy to remove from the seed pod,' says John. Store them in a dry jam jar, with the lid on, in a cool, dark, frost-free place.

You can then sow your hollyhock seeds in spring, by sprinkling them onto the surface of a 4in pot filled with seed-and-cutting compost and covering them with a 1⁄4in of grit. 'Water them in and seal the pot in a plastic bag,' says John. Then, consign it to a propagator or warm windowsill. 'Seedlings will appear within a few weeks.'

Common problems with hollyhocks

The most common problem with hollyhocks is rust. However, there are a few pests that can be a nuisance for these plants, too. These include slugs and caterpillars. Luckily, there are natural control methods for both, such as picking them off by hand and encouraging more birds to your yard.

It's also worth noting that hollyhocks are not deer-resistant plants, who will happily eat the blooms.

FAQs

Although they won't last forever, hollyhocks are definitely worth growing for a splash of color in your summer display. They're easy and rewarding to grow from seed, relatively unfussy in terms of maintenance, and they're a great way to temporarily hide an ugly garden wall. And, if you want to brighten your home as well as your yard, they make lovely cut flowers for a large vase, too.

This craftsman shingle style summer home was built in the mid-1980s on the shore of Walloon Lake, Michigan. Its owners, who also own the house next door, bought it for their grown-up children and their partners to share. 

Following a recent redesign, this weekend and vacation retreat now has gorgeous coastal decor interiors to match its stunning location. We caught up with Tom Stringer, the interior designer responsible for the redesign, to ask how he came up with the new look, which he describes as classic midwestern cottage style.  

'The house sits directly at the water’s edge and features dockage for the client’s boats, so we alit on a yacht club theme,' says Stringer. 'The color scheme of reds, blues, whites and yellows, is drawn from the colors of nautical signal flags, Our intent was to nod toward classic yacht club style without delving too far into nautical clichés.'

'When the owners purchased the property, the existing finishes were dated and formal,' explains designer Tom Stringer. 'We updated the kitchen and cook’s pantry and added bead-boarded ceilings and wide plank walnut floors for a more classic feeling.' Kitchen ideas include blue cabinetry, soft gray worktops and a tiled backsplash, all referencing the cooler tones of the nautical palette, while upholstered bar stools introduce the weathered shade of red that will be subtly repeated in the other main spaces in the home. 

'The great room is an easy favorite,' says designer Tom Stringer of the home's open-plan living-dining room. 'It has a great view of the water and features our bespoke semi-circular sofa with a wood paneled outside back that makes it vaguely resemble a settee on the aft deck of a fantail stern yacht. The room also features a grand piano that came with the house. We lightened it’s heart with a fresh marine blue lacquer.'

The dining area features two vintage pond yachts displayed 'yacht club style' in glass cases atop a pair of ebonite campaign chests. And one of the designer's inspired dining room ideas was to include an antique walnut dining table, which has great patina so no one's worrying about new scratches and dents.

Living room ideas combine vintage and upcycled pieces together with some smart new bespoke elements to create a comfortable and welcoming feel in this unique room overlooking a terrace and the water. A pair of bobbin chairs flank the stone fireplace and a round cocktail table that came with the house was repurposed with the same blue matte lacquer finish as on the grand piano.

The primary bedroom has its own terrace on the water and features a white painted four poster bed. Yellow and white linen curtains frame the view. Bedroom ideas for this space are all about maximizing the view, and echoing the calming blues of the watery landscape outside. 

The new bunk room was added to the house as part of the renovations. This ground-floor space includes three queen beds with vintage-style spindle bed frames and simple cottage-style bed linen. Wainscoting to the walls continues the nautical theme, while the colors echo those used in the rest of the house. 

The primary bathroom features all new finishes. The freestanding tub replaces a dated built-in whirlpool tub. Bathroom ideas that work well here to give a fresh look include the wide plank walnut flooring, double vanity, and wall-to-ceiling tiling. 

Built right on the shore of  Walloon Lake and with its own jetty, the craftsman shingle style home has been refreshed and redesigned in a year-long renovation project to bring it right up to date while still referencing the area's sailing history.

Interior Design: Tom Stringer
Photography: Wittefini

As one of the most influential figures in the homes and gardens industry, when Martha Stewart posts on social media, she can kickstart – or reboot – a trend all on her own.

Located in Bedford, New York, Martha's farm is the source of much of her – and our – inspiration for everything from color schemes to garden planning. And this week, she brings us both in one single post, sharing her 'chaotic' (her words) cottage garden. 

'The farm is ablaze with color, complex in numbers of varieties, and utterly charming in a chaotic and disorganized way,' Martha says. 'The old roses have never been better, the wisteria did not forget to bloom, and the lupines have gone wild!' 

Loving her ode to the traditional English garden? Us too, so we spoke to our gardening experts to find out how to recreate it.

How to recreate Martha Stewart's cottage garden – in any size yard

As Martha mentions, roses, wisteria (note: this one is banned in some states), and lupines feature somewhere amid the colorful chaos – but they're not all we spotted. Also seen in the 10 photos above are alliums, Sweet William, and poppies – all of which create an eclectic, maximalist garden that embraces 'wild' planting. 

Alongside its aesthetic qualities, this floral wildlife-friendly garden comes with eco-friendly benefits – creating valuable shelter, habitats, food, and water for pollinators and local animals through its imperfections. 

So, how can we create our own? H&G's resident garden expert, Drew Swainston, recommends beginning by mixing perennials, annuals, and bulbs together.

'It's a fantastic way to give your backyard interest throughout the year,' Drew says. 'Don't be afraid to allow annuals, like poppies, to self-seed throughout the garden; you can remove them as seedlings in some areas quickly and leave them to bloom in others.'

We love how Martha has embraced disorganization in her garden – but it is possible to practise more maintenance in your own space.

'If you would prefer some control, you can always remove the heads to collect the seeds to sow for next year,' Drews suggests. 'While poppies look stunning in bloom, their seed heads can also be elegant and structural if left in the border – or you can take the stem and seed head to dry and use them in arrangements.' 

We're picking up our poppy seeds, as well as more Martha-inspired picks below.

When it comes to maintaining our gardens, the process is equally as simple. 'All plants in beds or borders will benefit from a good mulch of compost or well-rotted organic matter in the spring,' Drew continues. 'This will give them access to more nutrients to help them grow big and strong, and it also boosts the soil's moisture-retaining ability.'

Meanwhile, when it comes to achieving roses as healthy as Martha's, Drew suggests applying a layer of mulch (around two inches thick) this springtime. 'They will benefit from all those valuable nutrients to help them put on a stunning display of blooms.'

From letting them ramble over trellises to making them the focal point of a cottage garden, landscaping with roses is a wonderful way to add beautiful color and fragrance to your backyard. Everyone wants to include a classic rose or two in their garden as these gorgeous blooms are an all-time classic flower. 

It's easy to see why they're so popular. With so many different varieties and colors to choose from, roses are one of the most versatile shrubs to work into your landscape design. They can be used in a multitude of ways, but whatever the planting combination they are always sure to be the star of the show. 

It doesn't matter what the size of your yard or whether it's sunny or shady, roses can easily be worked into your backyard landscaping ideas, even if it means planting them up in patio containers if space is tight. Here's how to get more of these stunning blooms in to your outdoor space now.

8 inspirational ideas for landscaping with roses

'Roses are lovely flowers to grow,' says Jac Semmler, horticulturalist and author of Super Bloom, available from Amazon. 'They are the reigning monarch of ornamental gardens. They can be grown for their individual beauty and the blooms are a cut flower classic. Yet there are so many ways you can grow them in a garden and enjoy them with other plants.'

We've brought together all the inspiration you need if you're designing a rose garden, whether you're looking for ways to cover a fence or wall with pretty blooms or simply want to enjoy some fragrant flowers in your seating area.

1. Let roses relax in a naturalistic planting design

If you let roses do their own thing they will look more spontaneous as part of a naturalistic planting design. Landscaping with shrub roses like many of the old varieties can be integral to an informal scheme, thriving in mixed borders, intertwined with some of their favorite partner plants.

What to choose? 'Feathery purple and blue-gray catmint offsets any pale pink rose beautifully, and its wispy spires gracefully camouflage any blemishes that may occur on the rose’s foliage,' says the experts at the New York Botanical Garden. 'While the tops of roses are lush, the bottoms can become leggy and sparse. Good companion plants are those that hide their bare legs. Traditionally, lavender, catmint, lady’s mantle and tall growing pinks all make good partners.'

Roses are available as shrubs, ground cover, climbing plants and ramblers, and with this range of forms available there are many different ways to experiment if you love the look of landscaping with roses.

2. Make roses the star of a formal design

Neatly delineated rose bushes come into their own when partnered with smartly clipped topiary and manicured hedges as part of a formal garden design that favors a symmetrical layout. You'll definitely need to find out how to prune roses for this landscaping look.

If you're aiming to create more formal rose garden ideas, rugosa roses and hybrid teas are ideal choices. 'Their upright growth habit and profusion of blooms lend a regal and well-structured appearance to any setting,' says Diana Cox, founder of The Gardening Talk. 'Consider rugosa varieties like 'Quietness' for their low maintenance requirements, and indulge in the captivating fragrance of 'Peace' or 'Kathleen Harrop' for scented borders.' You can find everyone's favorite heirloom hybrid tea rose 'Peace' at Nature Hills.

You can also choose roses as hedging plants. Plant a single favorite variety along a well-defined line to create a simple color block effect. Why not give a small urban garden a pretty boundary, or hide a fence behind a rose hedge, to bring a linear style with a flowery touch to your formal garden design.

3. Create a scented seating area with roses

Every garden needs an enchanting place to sit, somewhere you can enjoy being immersed in nature. The planting can add a sensory experience to the enjoyment of the garden, somewhere that offers a restful interlude for your outdoor seating ideas. Scented plants come into their own in spaces like this and none more so than the  best fragrant roses.

If you love the idea of being surrounded by containers planted up with fragrant roses, try the English shrub rose 'Princess Anne' by David Austin Roses. But there are so many more to choose from.

'The rose variety that I would recommend both for climbing and for scented purposes in a seated area is ‘Zéphirine Drouhin,’ says Miguel Camperos, VP of operations at SunVara. 'These roses are a dark pink in color and climb really well, making them a great addition to pergolas or arbors. They are known for being highly scented, with a really pleasant sweet/fruity fragrance.'

An old-fashioned variety, Zephirine Drouhin (available at Nature Hills) puts on an incredible show when in full bloom.

4. Add a whimsical arbor or arch

If you want to squeeze in a rose but your borders are already planted up to the max or your yard is on the small side, why not think vertically and utilize the space above your garden by adding an arbor or arch that will accommodate an abundance of blooms without taking up too much floor space.

'By bringing the blooms up and over, you can walk under them, fully immersing yourself within the roses,' recommend the experts at David Austin Roses. 'Create a cottage style garden with a painted wooden arch. There is no need to be too formal. Arches allow roses to span areas where there is high traffic, as well as those which are not suitable for planting below.'

5. Disguise a fence or wall with climbing roses

By training a fabulous, fragrant climbing or rambling rose up a wall or garden fence, you can transform a dull area into a stunning feature. This will draw your gaze up, providing color and blooms at eye level. Similarly, if a rose-covered wall or fence is at the back of a border this increases the impact and visual depth of the planting.

Training climbing roses on a fence or wall is easy and the result is always beautiful. Roses are a good choice for every kind of wall and fence, from chain link to wooden picket, and work whatever the style of your backyard. 

'One of my favorite roses is 'New Dawn' as they are great performers,' says Michael Derrig, a registered landscape architect and founder of Landscape Details, who is based in East Hampton. 'As far a climbing rose goes I prefer 'Iceberg' and 'White Eden'. I have created beautiful wall coverings with them for some of the outdoor dining spaces I have designed.'

'Iceberg' comes up time and again as a favorite with designers for landscaping with roses. It has two flushes of beautiful soft-white blooms with the faintest pink tinge, one in late spring and another towards the end of summer. It's easy to train too and the stems go where you want them to. Another plus is that the foliage doesn't die back in winter, so the fence stays looking 'green'. 'Iceberg' is available from Nature Hills.

6. Add roses to patio containers

Roses can be used in containers to create a stunning focal point as part of your patio planting ideas. You can buy special patio roses too, which are in between miniature and normal size roses, and often have charming rosette flowers and neat, bushy growth. 

For a modern look, try planting one variety of rose in the same color in boxy contemporary-style planters as a patio border. Other varieties of patio roses to try include peach-orange 'Flower Power' and scarlet 'Marlena', both available from David Austin Roses.

'If you'd like to bring an incredible rose aroma right up the patio, consider planting an 'Apricot Drift',' says Rebecca Rouse, the home stylist and garden enthusiast behind Rouse in the House. 'The maximum size is less than 2 feet tall. As it's so compact, it's the perfect option to plant in a container on the patio. 

'The fragrance of 'Apricot Drift' is, hands down, one of the most beautiful roses I've smelled. It's lightly sweet, yet very subtle and not overpowering. Another bonus is that these roses are repeat bloomers, so you can have blooms from spring all the way through to your first frost.' You can find 'Apricot Drift' at Nature Hills.

7. Focus on roses in a cottage garden

Old-fashioned, fragrant varieties of rose evoke a romantic charm that's perfect for cottage garden ideas. With their big, blowsy blooms and glorious scent, they add a touch of magic. 

Plant them amongst old favorites like lavender, delphiniums, and foxgloves for a charming, informal look that's bursting with flowers. Try to locate your roses near a seat or bench so you can sit nearby to enjoy their fragrance.

'To achieve a charming cottage garden aesthetic, opt for shrub roses planted in clusters,' suggests Diana Cox. 'These roses have a spreading nature and do not need staking. You might find 'The Fairy' captivating with its abundance of small pink blooms. 'Alternatively 'Bonica' is stunning with its profusion of coral-pink flowers.' 'Bonica' is available at Nature Hills. 

8. Frame an entrance or doorway with roses

A rose in full bloom makes a stunning welcome home as part of your front porch ideas. If you're looking to frame your front door, give your entrance personality or add curb appeal then choose a rose. You can use one to frame an entrance, pot it up for the porch or use as a pretty detail in borders.

Roses smarten up any entryway and give it the standout factor. If you want to plant roses in a container choose one that complements your exterior aesthetic for a seamless look.

If you're adding roses to garden borders as part of your front yard landscaping ideas they are a good choice as they will soon settle in and look like they have been there for ever.

If you're looking for more ideas for landscaping with shrubs, here's one final tip from Diana Cox of The Gardening Talk. 'Overall, roses contribute beauty, fragrance, and structural elegance to any garden space. For maximum visual impact, consider planting them in mass groupings, using them to strategically emphasize key focal points in your yard.'

The best hardy geranium varieties (aka cranesbills) provide months of color and effective ground cover. In the last 50 or 60 years, these dependable jewel-hued bloomers have become some of our most appreciated hardy perennials. 

If you're new to growing hardy geraniums, one reason why they are so popular in flower beds and borders is that they have so much adaptability. You can get varieties for sun or shade, for rich soil and poor. There are dwarf and compact varieties for the front of the border, plus larger and bushier varieties for the middle ground. Ground-cover varieties such as ‘Biokovo’, ‘Mrs Kendall Clarke’ and ‘Orion’ combine a long season of attractive color with excellent weed prevention. Some of the best cranesbills, like ‘Blue Sunrise’ and ‘Mavis Simpson’, make stunning displays cascading over the sides of containers.  

If you are looking for blooms in blue or lilac, pink or white, with prettily patterned or tinted petals, the range is extraordinary. Flowering from spring to fall, some will thrive in our coldest zones (many are hardy to USDA Z3). Although there are almost 2,000 types of hardy geraniums, fine new varieties are still being introduced. 

15 hardy geranium varieties for a long flowering season

The first hardy geranium flowers open in spring, and some bloom into the fall. A range of varieties bloom for months and make vibrant ground cover plants, often flowering continuously without deadheading. 

• Shop hardy geraniums at Amazon
• Shop hardy geraniums at Fast Growing Trees
• Shop hardy geraniums at Nature Hills

1. Geranium ‘Ann Folkard’

• Type: Hybrid of Geranium psilostemon
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 20in
• Good for: Ground cover in full sun

One of the top hardy geraniums for colorful ground cover is pretty ‘Ann Folkard’. Its young foliage is a vivid golden green, becoming green later. Magenta flowers feature black-veined flowers with a bold black eye. The plant spreads widely from the crown, then dies back in winter. 

If you like to plant shrubs, this plant will happily sprawl into nearby shrubbery. ‘Anne Thomson’ is similar, but less vigorous.

2. Geranium ‘Ballerina’

• Type: Geranium cinereum
• Hardiness: USDA Z3
• Height: 4-8in
• Good for: Low ground cover in full sun

Geranium ‘Ballerina’ is another of the best cranesbills for cheerful ground cover. It develops into a low trailing carpet of gray-green, fingered leaves. In late spring and summer, these are covered with upward-facing pale pink flowers with a dark purple eye and purple veins. 

This hardy geranium often flowers again later. It is good with spring crocuses and irises. Lovers of purple plants can also try ‘Purple Pillow’.

3. Geranium ‘Biokovo’

• Type: Geranium macrorrhizum hybrid
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 10in
• Good for: Front-of-the-border cover

This hardy geranium variety develops crisp, aromatic foliage and a dense carpet of pale green foliage. ‘Biokovo’ grows well in sun or shade. Then, in late spring and summer, pretty blushed pink flowers with dark eyes stand above leaves in clusters of up to 10. 

For gardeners with small gardens, this is one of the best hardy geraniums you can grow with dwarf shrubs. 

Geranium 'Biokovo' is available at Garden Goods Direct.

4. Geranium Blue Sunrise (‘Blugold’)

• Type: Hybrid between ‘Buxton’s Variety’ and ‘Ann Folkard’
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 16in
• Good for: Billowing out of large containers

If you are looking for a hardy geranium variety for containers, try Blue Sunrise (‘Blugold’). These bloomers make stunning container gardening plants. 

New leaves emerge yellowish green with orange tints. From summer into fall, the white-eyed, lavender blue flowers just keep coming. It is best grown as a specimen. You could also try ‘Azure Rush’ (pale blue) and ‘Ann Thomson’ (yellow foliage, magenta flowers). 

5. Geranium Havana Blues (‘Noorthava’)

• Type: Hybrid of Geranium wallichianum
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 14-16in
• Good for: Ground cover in sun or partial shade

Havana Blues (‘Noorthava’) is another of the best cranesbills for dynamic ground cover. For those interested in spectacular garden color schemes, this one is a beauty. 

Delicately mottled foliage makes an ideal backing for these white-eyed lilac flowers with rays of deep purple veins from early summer into fall. It grows well with kniphofias in pale yellow, and also around low roses. 

6. Geranium ‘New Hampshire Purple’

• Type: Geranium sanguineum
• Hardiness: USDA Z3
• Height: 8in
• Good for: Full sun, well-drained soil

Low and bushy, ‘New Hampshire Purple’ has small, neat leaves. These turn reddish in fall, making a compact, dense cover over steadily spreading roots. From late spring to midsummer, magenta-purple flowers open, held facing upwards against attractive foliage. 

These are some of the best hardy geraniums for low ground cover, though you can also try ‘Album’ (white flower), ‘Ankum’s Pride’ (rose pink) and ‘John Elsley’ (mauve pink, veined). 

'New Hampshire Purple' is available from Nature Hills. 

7. Geranium maculatum

• Type: Native North American species
• Hardiness: USDA Z4
• Height: 20-28in
• Good for: Any soil that does not dry out

If you are looking to grow flowers that attract bees, these are some of the best cranesbills for pollinators. 

Geranium maculatum plants have boldly divided leaves. These rise from a tight crown with upward-facing, white-eyed, pale mauve-pink flowers in late spring and early summer, and again later. Also try ‘Espresso’ (coffee-colored leaves, mauve flowers). 

8. Geranium ‘Mavis Simpson’ 

• Type: Geranium x riversleaianum
• Hardiness: USDA Z6
• Height: 8in
• Good for: Cascading over a container’s edge

Geranium ‘Mavis Simpson’ is another excellent hardy geranium for container gardening. A semi-evergreen sprawler, the neat greyish foliage sets off many months of rose pink flowers in a silver-pink combination. 

For those looking for the hardy geraniums to grow in a south facing garden, this variety does well in well-drained compost or soil in full sun. You can also try ‘Russell Prichard’ (magenta flowers). 

9. Geranium ‘Mrs. Kendal Clark’

• Type: Geranium pratense
• Hardiness: USDA Z4
• Height: 3-4ft 
• Good for: Pretty flowers and ground cover

Lovers of enchanting rose garden ideas will find ‘Mrs. Kendal Clark’ another excellent companion plant. They are some of the best cranesbills to partner up with mature English or shrub roses, in particular. 

Tall with dense growth, the pale lavender flowers have a delicate network of white veins that work well alongside pink tones. You can also try ‘Silver Queen’ (pale grayish lavender) and ‘Striatum’ (white flowers, streaked in blue).

10. Geranium ‘Orion’

• Type: Hybrid of Geranium pratense
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 30-36in 
• Good for: Large scale ground cover in sun

Geranium ‘Orion’ is another of the best hardy geraniums for vibrant ground cover. From early summer into fall, unusually large lavender blue flowers open continually. Almost rounded petals overlap to add to the impact. 

For lovers of cottage garden plants, this is quite simply one of the best of all hardy perennial flowers. Also try: ‘Blue Cloud’ (paler color) and ‘Brookside’ (flowers have reddish veins). 

11. Geranium palmatum

• Type: A wild species from Madeira
• Hardiness: USDA Z8
• Height: 3-4ft
• Good for: Full sun as a stunning specimen 

If you’re after dynamic options for outdoor planters for the deck or patio, or borders in mild zones, G. palmatum is one of the best cranesbills you can choose. 

It’s a dramatic plant forming a bold rosette of rich green foliage from which a repeatedly branched flower head develops. This is packed with rich pink flowers that shade to magenta in the throat. The first year of flowering is especially impressive. This dreamy flower is also known as the Canary Island cranesbill. 

12. Geranium renardii 

• Type: A wild species from eastern Europe
• Hardiness: USDA Z6
• Height: 14-16in
• Good for: Neat, front-of-the border ground cover in sun 

Looking for the best hardy geranium varieties for front-of-border ground cover? G. renardii makes a low, dense, rounded mound of grey-green, lobed and slightly felted foliage. 

In late spring and early summer, the upward facing, blue-tinted white flowers open, veined in violet. If you love irises, these hardy geraniums look great with medium-height bearded irises. Also try ‘Whiteknights’ (lavender flowers, rich violet veins).

13. Geranium ‘Rose Clair’ 

• Type: Geranium x oxonianum
• Hardiness: USDA Z4
• Height: 16-18in
• Good for: Effective weed-smothering with little care 

‘Rose Clair’ is another one of the best cranesbills to grow with roses. Rosy salmon pink flowers are lightly veined in darker tones and open in early and midsummer, often flowering again. Mounds of foliage knit in around the bare rose stems prettily. 

Also try ‘AT Johnson’ (silvery pink flowers) and ‘Beholder’s Eye’ (small, but intensely pink, flowers). Additionally, if you are interested in the best snowdrops to grow, this hardy geranium makes a lovely partner for double snowdrops.

14. Geranium Rozanne (‘Gerwat’)

• Type: Hybrid of ‘Buxton’s Variety’ and G. himalayense
• Hardiness: USDA Z5
• Height: 24in
• Good as: Ground cover and container specimen

Rozanne (‘Gerwat’) was voted ‘Plant Of The Century’ by Britain’s Royal Horticultural Society, making it one of the best hardy geraniums you can grow. This dramatic beauty is a superb mid-size ground cover option. Pairs of prettily split leaves set off an exceptionally long season of white-eyed blue flowers from early summer well into fall. Good with golden-leaved shrubs such as Choisya ‘Sundance’. Also try ‘Kelly Anne’, which is like a pink version of Rozanne. 

Geranium Rozanne is available at Fast Growing Trees. 

15. Geranium ‘White-ness’

• Type: Geranium macrorrhizum
• Hardiness: USDA Z4
• Height: 12in
• Good for: Neat ground cover in shade

With its fat roots and stout sprawling stems, Geranium ‘White-ness’ has near-evergreen, intensely aromatic foliage, setting off white blooms in late spring and early summer. It is one of the top hardy geraniums for dainty blooms in a wide range of soils and situations. If you are after the best shrubs for shade, this choice is good for broad sweeps around deciduous shrubs. Also try ‘Bevan’s Variety’ (prolific, magenta flowers). 

Many varieties of hardy geraniums will bloom more vibrantly and prolifically if clipped over after the main burst of flowers is fading. Some of the best varieties for a long flowering season include ‘Brookside’, ‘Kelly Anne’, ‘Rozanne’ and ‘Russell Prichard’. 

It’s a good idea to think about how different varieties sync up in terms of flowering potential to make the most of your season. Also, be sure the colors of your hardy geranium flowers fit nicely together with other plants nearby.

Even before its recent redesign, this four-bedroom farmhouse-style home had a lot to offer. It's in the enviable setting of Hedgerow, a highly sought-after, peaceful neighborhood in Montecito between the ocean and the upper village, and it was built on a secluded plot with a stunning garden, and views of the Montecito mountains beyond. 

It's a truly idyllic place to vacation. But there were some interior design challenges to overcome before it became the perfect retreat, as designer Hayley English found out. 

The homeowners, who have a young family, enlisted the interior designer's help to create a better backdrop for vacations and casual gatherings with friends, and to improve the sense of flow throughout the space. They were looking for an unpretentious, youthful take on traditional farmhouse style with coastal decor elements, says designer Hayley English, who picks out her highlights and describes how she overcame the 1970s' home's challenges to give it a new sense of style. 

'White kitchens are often predictable and unremarkable,' says designer Hayley English. 'Yet this space feels surprisingly warm with the humble materials such as the butcher block island and rattan chairs.'  Kitchen ideas from Hayley were about softening the edges of this space. 

'We loved adding feminine floral fabrics to drapery and upholstery for a softer touch. The addition of grosgrain cushion ties feels whimsical and chic,' she says. A vintage rug in muted shades of pink and gold also contributes to the warmer scheme. 

Key pieces include the pendant light from Hector Finch (Harbinger), barstools from Serena & Lily, with Lisa Fine cushion fabric. Other fabrics from Soane Britain and Fermoie.

'This dreamy dining room provokes ideas of living a simple life,' says designer Hayley English. The dining area is open plan to the living room, so her dining room ideas needed to work across the whole space. 'The goal was casual and comfortable, common now in so many dining rooms we’re designing. The wooden table top is marked with years of holiday brunches, games nights and family gatherings,' the designer adds. 

Key pieces include chairs from Redford House with cushions from Schuyler Samperton (Jasper Showroom). The candleholders are from Match Pewter, the table linen from Connected Goods. 

Living room ideas had to bear in mind that this is the first room guests see when they enter the home. 'We strategically created an open floor plan for optimal flow.  One of the goals here was to create an airy feel, so the light color palette was key,' explains Hayley English. 'Pops of earth tones in the upholstery play on the beautiful stone fireplace surround while denim blues add a coastal element.' 

Key pieces include ottomans upholstered in Lisa Fine fabric, the coffee table from Redford House, rug from Jamal Rugs and throw pillows from Nickey Kehoe. 

The blend of antiques and vintage accessories in the living room creates a traditional and curated look, that speaks of relaxed, settled living – a great way to foster a welcoming space and put visitors at ease. The pitched ceiling, with white clapboard paneling is a further nod to the property's coastal setting and style. Key pieces here include sofa fabric from Kravet, pillow fabric from Pierre Frey and Lisa Fine, mixed with an antique games table and chairs in the corner. The artwork here, and throughout the home, is a mix of vintage, commissioned and antique artwork of California scenery, which thoughtfully ties color palettes together in each space.

Lit by large windows, this spacious primary bedroom could feel stark and unfinished, but Hayley English's bedroom ideas aimed to create a unique and nostalgic space, something she tried to do with each of the bedrooms. 'We leaned into the beautiful cathedral ceiling with a tall, four poster bed tied with crisp linen drapes for an added texture,' she explains. 

Key pieces include a Serena & Lily bedframe; bed cover from Chelsea Textiles; quilt from Les Indiennes (Nickey Kehoe); drapery from Schumacher; sconces by Mark Sikes for Hudson Valley Lighting; table lamp, Natan Moss x Hollywood at Home.

'This bedroom was made to feel nostalgic, inviting and chic,' says Hayley English. 'The inspiration was cheerful, English cottage style and the historic paint color felt meant to be. Most striking is the play of patterns and colors throughout the space. It is by far my favorite in the home.' The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Guilford Green'. 

Key pieces include drapery by Penny Morrison, Hollywood at Home; quilt, Nicky Kehoe; lampshade, Maison Maison; pillowcases, ST Frank (Over the Moon).

'I would describe this room as sophisticated yet approachable for its straightforward design but punchy palette,' says designer Hayley English. 'The cane bed and woven wood shades incorporate coastal elements.' The cool blue walls are painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Woodlawn Blue', a good choice for this elevated coastal look. 

Key pieces include bedframe from Serena & Lily; quilt, Neem (Nicky Kehoe); euro pillow fabric, Décors Barbares Tissus Tartares; pillowcases, Annie Selke 

Photographs: Sara Tramp
Styling: Lauren May

As Anglophiles, there is no end to our fascination with how royals live, and even more so with those who marry into the firm. Born Catherine Elizabeth Middleton, the now Princess of Wales once resided in a rather charming house on the outskirts of London, so we decided to take a whistle-stop tour. 

While her childhood was vastly different from being raised in a palace or stately royal residences like her husband, the Prince of Wales, and children, Kate lived an idyllic life in many expensive homes in sought-after Berkshire.

West View 

It was West View where Kate, born in 1982, started her young life. After marrying in 1980, Kate Middleton’s parents, Mike and Carole, purchased West View (below), a 2-bedroom semi-detached home for £34,700 ($43,600), in Bradfield, Southend, just outside the large town of Reading. It was in this very home that Kate Middleton, the former Duchess of Cambridge, spent the early years of her childhood. 

Princess Kate attended Bradfield Church of England primary school which was just next door and also attended Brownies at the church hall nearby.

Oak Acre 

The couple sold the house in 1995 for £158,000 ($189,000), and soon after moved into Oak Acre (below), in Berkshire. 

The English-style red brick exterior, Georgian-style windows, and pointed roofs are all in keeping with the surrounding Berkshire area. The property also sits on one-and-a-half acres of grounds. 

The picturesque Berkshire location even ranked higher than Windsor in a recent 'Best places to live in England' list. There are also two Michelin-starred restaurants in the prestigious area – the Blackbird and the Woodspeen.

Then in 2012, Carole and Michael bought Bucklebury Manor (below), in the bucolic surrounds of Berkshire, for £4.7 million ($5.9 million) in order to seek more privacy once their daughter was welcomed into the royal family.

Bucklebury Manor

Bucklebury Manor is a Grade II listed house in the village of Bucklebury. The Georgian house sits on 18 acres of grounds. It's a Regency-style house, built originally for the Winchcombe family.

While it's not where Catherine, James and Pippa grew up, it does count as the family home now. During Kate's teenage years, she was between Bucklebury, Marlborough College and Downe House, though she did not board at the latter. 

The expansive property features seven bedrooms, five reception rooms, a kitchen, a drawing room, a dining room, library, sitting room, and an entrance hall. 

The 18 acres around the property also include stunning gardens, a tennis court, and a swimming pool. This made the home the perfect place to host Kate's sister, Pippa Middleton's, wedding reception when she married James Matthews in 2017.

It is reported Prince William and Princess Kate recently spent Boxing Day at Bucklebury Manor with the Middletons after celebrating Christmas with the rest of the Royal Family in Sandringham.

FAQs

From his primary residence, Clarence House, to his country retreat, Highgrove House, King Charles III's royal residences are among the most beautiful and famous properties globally. However, grandeur aside, the royal family shares some decorating questions we all face as homeowners – including what color to paint their front door (or in their case, doors).

The power of the right front door color is no secret – it showcases your style and personality to all who pass by your home. And while finding the right hue is naturally important to us all, it is imperative in the case of the royal residences – where their chosen tone makes a more public impression on the world. So, which colors made the selection? 

Here, experts discuss the front door colors in King Charles III's 5 most famous homes – and what the chosen tones say about the man who lives inside. 

1. Clarence House – White

'The color white is often chosen by people who connect with traditions. So, a white front door would reflect that the homeowner is an avid supporter of traditional thought processes,' says Bailey Moran, a landscape design expert and the COO of Austin TX Realty. It is perhaps unsurprising, therefore, that the King chooses to reflect this ideology in Clarence House – his primary residence on The Mall in the City of Westminster, London.

'In symbolism, a white front door would mean that the homeowner has put effort into how their home should be perceived.'

2. Highgrove House – Cream

Differing only slightly from his primary residence, the King's country hideaway, Highgrove House in Gloucestershire, South West England, has a cream, off-white front door. 

'Cream is a beautiful color to paint your front door. It will portray that your home is serene while also adding a touch of warmth to the property,' says Carter Crowley, an exterior decorator and licensed realtor at Wisconsin's CB Home Solutions. It is, therefore, an apt choice for a home that no doubt encourages the King and Queen Consort to escape their duties in London. 

'This color is similar to white, as it symbolizes the cleanliness and freshness of your home. It is an inviting color that compels outsiders to take a look inside. It will attract the outside world toward the well-organized and spa-like beauty of serenity and simplicity. Plus, it will proudly reflect your positivity to others.'

And realtors aside, interior experts agree. New York-based designer Artem Kropovinsky says this cream hue is 'a symbol of refinement and elegance' and, of course, always versatile.

3. Sandringham House – Black

Located in Norfolk, Sandringham House is among the best-known royal homes – due to its striking size and the fact that it famously hosts the family every Christmas. Close-up images of the home's front door are hard to come by, but the main house has a black front door – a safe but stylish choice that evokes a hint of power (think: the front door of 10 Downing St) around the family.  

'Black is a sophisticated, dramatic color that can lend a home a stylish, modern look. It can also evoke a sense of mystery or intrigue,' Artem says. 

4. Llwynywermod – Blue

King Charles and Camilla, Queen Consort, have access to a charming Welsh farmhouse named Llwynywermod, which the now-Prince and Princess of Wales inherited with their titles. Though the cottage belongs to Prince William and Princess Catherine, it was a favorite of the King, who often stays there while visiting Wales. 

Though notably smaller than the other residence, this cottage is the most playful in its curb appeal choices. Lick’s Director of Interiors and Color Psychologist, Tash Bradley, says that a light blue tone, such as this, offers an 'easy-going family' aesthetic – adding that it looks 'relaxed' and 'approachable' in comparison to other hues.

5. Balmoral – Brown

It would be impossible to conclude the list without mentioning Balmoral, the King's Scottish castle that was Queen Elizabeth's beloved summer home. Here, the family has chosen a brown front door – a choice that, Artem suggests, is fitting for its verdant surroundings.

'Brown is a warm, welcoming color often connected to nature and earth. It can give a home a cozy and secure appearance,' he says. We could think of no better color for this estate – nestled deep in the Aberdeenshire mountains. 

We could also think of no more apt time to invest in coronation memorabilia. Here are our top picks of pieces that will stay in style – long after the event. 

Q: I love hollyhocks for their colorful, crinkled flowers, and I have a row of them planted along the edge of my patio which I grew from seed. I was disappointed last year, however, as unsightly orange and yellow pustules developed on the tops of the leaves, with darker spots on the undersides. The leaves then dried up and fell off. What caused this, and how can I prevent it from happening again this year?

A: These are telltale symptoms of hollyhock rust, a common disease caused by the fungus Puccinia malvacearum. It can spread to other members of the mallow family, too, including hibiscus.

'It tends to start low and work up the plant, also contaminating stems,' says John Negus, a gardening expert. As you experienced, badly affected hollyhock plants lose their leaves and fail to thrive. But luckily, there are a few things you can do to reduce the risks.

3 tips for preventing hollyhock rust

Keep these pretty flowering plants in good health with this advice.

1. Dispose of them after they've bloomed

The fungus that causes hollyhock rust overwinters on infected leaves and plant debris ready to release more spores in spring, says Anne Swithinbank, a gardening expert.

Even if the plants don't show signs of rust in their first year of growth, they often will in their second, when they put on their floral display. So, many gardeners choose to dispose of all plant matter once they've finished flowering. 

Fresh seeds can then be planted in a new spot – Burpee has a beautiful hollyhock variety, 'Chaters Pink', available to buy that will add vibrant color to a flower bed. 'Good moisture-retentive soil and space for air circulation give plants the best chance,' says Anne.

If you really want to keep your hollyhocks for another year after they've bloomed, cutting them right back to the soil in the fall can reduce the risks of the disease. Dispose of the cuttings rather than putting them on your compost heap, advises John.

2. Inspect plants early and remove affected leaves

It's best to check hollyhocks frequently for any developing signs of rust as they grow, and quickly remove and destroy affected material. Be sure to clean your pruners afterward, to avoid spreading the disease.

If you're purchasing pot-bought plants from a garden center, ensure you check them for symptoms, too – just one infected plant can spread the disease to any other hollyhocks you may have.

3. Apply a fungicide

Spraying plants with a fungicide, such as BioAdvanced Disease Control for Roses, Flowers and Shrubs, available from Amazon, can keep the disease at bay.

'Treat plants before the rusty red spots have appeared and continue throughout the season,' John advises. These products can be effective against rose black spot, too.

FAQs

These cottage garden plants are well worth growing for their spires of satin-like blooms, so don't let the threat of rust put you off. For the easiest solution, simply replace them once they've finished their summertime show – it's inexpensive and easy to grow these flowers from seed.

Balmoral Castle, the estate where Queen Elizabeth II passed away last September, will reopen its doors this weekend (April 1st). 

The estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, opens to the public from April to July every year – and despite the events of the previous months – 2023 is no exception. This reopening will, however, come with some changes – the most significant being the launch of its first exhibition, 'Monarchs at Balmoral.' 

The show will consist of a photographic display of the family enjoying Balmoral Castle for more than a century. Described as a 'journey from the era of Queen Victoria to the present day,' the photographs will pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth, who was known to visit the royal residence for her annual summer vacation.

'Our exhibition will celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort together with a photographic display of Royal Monarchs at Balmoral,' the estate shared. 'An amazing historical collection of over 200 photographs, some of which have not been seen before in public, focusing on the late Queen Elizabeth, portraying her time at Balmoral.'

Alongside the opportunity to witness some rare royal photographs, a ticket to Balmoral grants access to the Ballroom – the only room open to visitors inside the Castle. There is, however, plenty of ways to spend your time exploring its grounds.

At approximately 50,000 acres, the estate sprawls across mountains, forests, valleys, and lochs before visitors even reach the manicured gardens. 

There are also 150 buildings on the estate, including the Castle, which is currently the private property of the monarch (and not part of the Crown Estate). Other notable structures include King Charles' house at Birkhall, Craigowan Lodge, and several other cottages (one is reportedly Prince and Princess of Wales, according to Edinburgh Live).

Regular adult tickets cost approximately $20.40 (£16.50), but there is an opportunity to elevate the Balmoral experience further by staying in one of the holiday cottages on the grounds. 

According to Balmoral Estate, Colt Cottages, Connachat Cottage, Karim Cottage, Knocks Cottage, and Rhebreck Lodge are available throughout the year – with the exception of when the royals are visiting. If visiting for the day, we can only recommend pairing the trip with King Charles' coronation (on May 6th) amid celebrations. 

The estate promises vintage buses, a falconry display, and Ballater Pipe Band alongside multiple screens showcasing the London-based event. You can discover more (and buy tickets) via Balmoral's site. 

Prince Harry is reportedly 'pushing hard to go down the private island route' in the next unexpected twist to the Sussex's property portfolio. 

Following their recent 'eviction' from Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, England, the subject of where Meghan and Harry will reside beyond their main Montecito home has come into play. Some say King Charles may offer the couple a private apartment in Buckingham Palace – but a recent report suggests they are more interested in a private island all their own. 

A source, speaking to Heat magazine in the UK, said that Harry is 'pushing hard to go down the private island route' as he 'loved the idea of living in a natural and eco-friendly environment,' The Mirror, a British news publication, reports. Heat's source adds that Harry and Meghan's new home won't serve as a vacation getaway but as their main home as they look to relocate entirely. 

'The situation is rapidly becoming uncomfortable to the point of untenable,' the source says. 'There are talks of keeping base in LA and heading somewhere new like Canada, South Africa, or one of the other countries where they have more popularity and public sympathy.'

The couple resides in a $14.7 million mansion in Montecito, California – their first permanent home since stepping down as royals. In an interview with The Cut, Meghan shared they did 'everything we could to get this house' because of its therapeutic and joyous qualities. 

'You walk in and go… Joy. And exhale. And calm. It's healing. You feel free,' she says. However, as the 'situation' evolves, the couple may be looking to relocate to a more private residence.

Meghan and Harry may be the first royals to relocate to a private island, but it's not their first time trying island life. The couple visited Kaibu Island – a 13.9-mile-long island off the coast of Fiji, during a royal tour in 2018, where they stayed on the island’s Vatuvara resort (a solar-powered retreat only accessible by private plane).

The source adds that the distraction of an expanding property portfolio is welcome among the couple, who view it as a 'chance to reap the benefits of their success, rather than escaping from their troubles,' The Mirror reports.

Little is known about the islands Harry and Meghan may be considering, but we'll keep you updated once we know more. 

In a dramatic shake-up of the royal properties, the palace has revealed that Harry and Meghan have been requested to vacate their English home, Frogmore Cottage, as King Charles III begins his revaluation of the royal residences. 

With his ascension to the throne, the king became the landlord of several royal residences up and down the UK and, after deciding against moving to Buckingham Palace he is continuing to change up the royal rota – with Prince Andrew rumored to be the next resident of Frogmore, according to royal correspondents in England.  

As Harry and Meghan continue to sever ties with the UK after Harry’s controversial tell-all book, we take a look at the couples' remaining residences.

Harry and Meghan asked to leave Frogmore cottage  

Despite having stated that Frogmore cottage would remain their base for visits to family in the UK, the contentious couple has been asked to relinquish the keys to the property in a move that royal experts claim could be the final straw in breaking ties between the two families.

Having stepped down as serving royals in 2020, the couple has been living in various states across the US with the cottage loaned to Harry’s cousin Eugenie and her husband in time for their first child's arrival – so it is safe to say that they will not be rushing to move much furniture out of the home in the next few weeks despite having paid for the renovations themselves in full after stepping down from the royal front-line.

Having requested a Windsor suite before being ‘downgraded’ to Frogmore cottage, it is likely to be seen as another slight towards the couple and a final driver in the rift between father and son.

Harry and Meghan's property portfolio 

So where will the couple live now that Frogmore may be out of reach? Luckily for the pair and their two children, they have resided in several private luxury homes over the last three years that would leave even a royal jealous. 

The Cotswold farmhouse

Signed as a two-year rental, a quiet Cotswold farmhouse was the first property the couple signed on together just before their $45 million wedding in 2018. 

The Grade II-listed home is situated on the same 4,000-acre estate as the Beckham’s Cotswold estate in Great Tew. The three-bedroom cottage is complete with a lavish barn-conversion guest house that has been host to the couple's celebrity friends such as Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas, and George and Amal Clooney. The main home boasts a large dining room and outdoor heated patio – perfect for hosting, and three luxury bedrooms with the fourth transformed into a splendid dressing room and walk-in closet.

The couple had to leave their idyllic home in Oxfordshire after paparazzi located the property, Harry shared in the Netflix documentary. Given the home’s important role in the couple's early life together and the first months of their son’s Archies life, the move must not have been an easy one. Their departure from the home marked their last full-time residence within the UK.

Vancouver Island

Following their departure from the UK, Harry and Meghan Markle moved to Canada to Vancouver Island. Thought to afford the couple some privacy, the waterfront property was a part of the couple's plan to step back from the limelight and has been the center of controversy for the last year after it was revealed to be owned by a Russian Oligarch. 

Far grander than their comparatively modest English cottage, the main house (affectionately called Millie Fleurs) sported eight bathrooms, five bedrooms, and a smaller three-bedroom guest house. Other highlights are thought to be a double-height living room, pizza oven, and wine-tasting space. The spot became a space for the couple to raise Archie with gated security.

The five-bedroom home became more of an extended holiday spot for the couple after they were forced to leave by invasive paparazzi and fears surrounding security once again in 2020.

Harry and Meghan's California home

The LA rental became a hide-out for the couple in 2020 after leaving Canada and losing the security afforded to full-time working royals. The home, owned by actor Tyler Perry, was loaned to the couple alongside a security detail, Meghan revealed in the explosive 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey. The space ‘gave [the couple] breathing room to try and figure out what [they] were going to do’, Meghan Markel revealed.

Located in the gated Beverly Ridge Estates, the home was featured in the couple's Netflix documentary. Set over 24,500 square feet the home features high, double-height vaulted ceilings, marble plinth and archway features, and luxurious lighting ideas with perfect layering and crystal chandeliers. The star of the show is the roman bath-style bathroom, a grand take on spa bathroom trends. 

The home also boasts impressive views across Franklin Canyon Park, however, the couple installed tall privacy screens at the beginning of the pandemic to protect their son from paparazzi on the nearby hiking trail. While Meghan Markle formerly owned an LA house before meeting Harry, it is thought that the Hollywood glamor did not sit right with the prince, ushering the pair and their child along to their next, and as of present, final property.  

The Montecito estate

The Montecito estate has been the longest residence of the couple, after moving there in late 2020. The building is a ‘humble cottage’ in comparison to other properties in the area – all of which are among some of the world’s best homes, owned by celebrities along the likes of Ellen DeGeneres, Ariana Grande, and Oprah Winfrey’s historic home. 

The home was seen throughout the Netflix documentary, with impressive glimpses into Meghan Markels calming neutral home office and personal glances into the birth of her second child, Lilibet – named after the late queen before her death. 

The impressive gardens surrounding the Montecito Estate cover 7.38 acres and offer superb garden landscaping ideas with abundant trees to encourage rewilding, and therapeutic flowers designed to act as an escape for the couple. 

It is believed that the family is considering selling their Montecito estate, however, over fears surrounding a rise in thefts in the star-studded area. It is not yet known if they have departed the property, or where they will be moving to next.  

FAQs

Fixer Upper star Joanna Gaines is a design force of a generation, so of course, her home is a trove of inspiration for all who admire her contemporary farmhouse style.

The home, located in Waco, Texas (also the base of her Magnolia empire), is precisely what you might expect from the designer – complete with expertly layered, neutral-hued color palettes, antique furnishings, and an abundance of house plants. But what about her shed? Yes, you guessed it – Joanna's shed is just as beautiful as her main home. 

Once affectionately labeled as the 'garden shed' by Joanna herself, this structure will rewrite all shed ideas you may already have. The cottage-like tiny home, situated in Chip and Joanna's garden, reflects the designers' distinct modern-country style through its timeless color scheme and fairytale-like wooden furnishings that overlook the cottage garden. 

'Did some spring cleaning in this cottage in the garden – now I just walk around in here and find things to do [because] I don't want to leave,' Joanna says when sharing the post above. 

The main room is a farmhouse kitchen, home library, and dining space combined into one – but in all its multifunctionality, Joanna hasn't sacrificed style. Though it is hard to pick a focal point, we can't help but note the modern rustic table, surrounded by cane chairs that give the space a rustic sense of timelessness. 

In terms of designer lighting ideas, you could do far worse than replicate Joanna Gaines' striking chandeliers that bring a somewhat-industrial look to the country-inspired space. 

Though the striking pair of bold fixtures may appear timeless, Industville says that black lighting such as this taps into one of the biggest interior design trends of the moment. The brand has recently seen a 270% increase in sales from its indoor black lighting range – and Joanna's placement (above the dining table) is exactly what they recommend.

'Black-finish lighting provides a sleek, striking effect when hung over dining tables,' says Industville’s managing director, Mara Rypace. 'This effortless style also pairs well with modern gothic decor and design, our number one interior trend set to take off in 2023.'

The cottage offers a lesson in accessorizing, too. Perhaps most notably, Joanna pays homage to the verdant green setting beyond the windows by decorating with plants of various sizes – upholding the rustic aesthetic by using terracotta containers (much like these on Amazon). 

And while these traditional kitchen ideas are certainly compact, their quaintness reminds us of the shed's multifunctionality. The space acts as a place to curate floral arrangements (much like the one created by the designer above), as a place to work, and as an entertaining space that will no doubt hold memorable dinner parties when the sun sets above Waco. For more tips from Joanna, visit her book below. 

When Tim Bailey discovered his brick-built house, which dates from the 1850s, he knew there was a lot of work ahead of him. But the property had great charm, and Tim could see past the potential pitfalls.

The house has three ensuite bedrooms, two living rooms, a study, two powder rooms and a spacious kitchen/living area. It also has two separate basements – one now a wine cellar, the other a laundry room. Tim completely overhauled it, giving it a new roof, windows, plumbing, electrics, insulation, bathrooms and a kitchen addition.

The house is a wonderful example of British Victorian house style. It has been beautifully decorated throughout with striking textiles to complement Tim’s existing furniture. We take the tour.

On the ground floor, the house a rear addition created a spacious new kitchen. The former timber-built garage was brought into the fold, creating a stylish adjoining living area complete with original vaulted ceiling, now with considerably better insulation. 

When it came to the décor, a lot of furniture had come with Tim from his previous home, and he worked with designer Alison Gee and her wonderful approach to pattern in textiles to create a unified approach throughout. 

‘I walked my dog past the house watching and admiring the renovations for about a year,’ says Alison. ‘I thought the property was exactly the sort that my designs would suit, so I decided to approach. I am so happy that he agreed to his beautiful home being filled with my work.’

Perhaps Tim’s favorite room is the kitchen – it’s the place he spent most of his time in his old home, and he wanted that same feeling here. A large roof lantern fills the space with light that extends to the adjoining living area, while glass doors to the rear connect to the courtyard garden. 

‘I’ve got what’s called a glass curtain,’ explains Tim. ‘It works well,’ he says.

‘I like things to look relaxed with a mix of old and new,’ says Tim. ‘Moving to a smaller home has allowed me to remodel the space and make it work for me, and I’ve enjoyed being involved in all stages.’ 

Tim worked with local carpenter to create the kitchen cabinetry, producing tall pantry units to look like French linen presses, and he designed the handles himself to be made by a local blacksmith. 

Display space is an important feature, showing collections of fine china amassed over the years by Tim and an engaging art collection that brings warmth to the space.

The house’s renovation under Tim’s keen eye has resulted in a warm and inviting home, marrying the past and present beautifully with a jolly dose of prints and patterns. 

‘I love the calm tranquillity of my house, the mix of colors, old and modern pieces.'

One area where Tim did call in the experts however is the front garden. A house with such a handsome façade calls for a garden to suit, so Tim ‘bought’ himself the gift of professional planning and planting a couple of Christmases ago. ‘It is fantastic,’ he says. ‘It has all these lovely ornamental pots and details, and it really does look good all year round.’

Feature: Sara Bird/Kasia Fiszer

As a child in the 1970s, Catherine Spain would go swimming in a tranquil loch surrounded by the Kerry mountains, beginning her love affair with southwest Ireland. So years later, when she moved back to the area from overseas looking for a project, perhaps fate played a part. For not only did she find an ideal cottage to restore, but it was set on the shores of that same loch. 

'From the moment I saw it, I knew this was the one,’ says Catherine. It must have been love, as she looked past the cottage’s ugly yellow plaster, the uPVC windows, and the lack of indoor facilities. What did impress her was the setting on five acres of Ireland’s wildly romantic west coast.

As builder Henry Thompson began to strip back the plaster to the original stonework it became apparent that the cottage was at least 200 years old. ‘It dates back to the times when animals were kept at one end and people lived at the other,’ explains Catherine. Determined to strip away decades of inappropriate changes, she planned to restore the cottage sympathetically using artisan methods so the old stone walls could breathe again. Catherine chose hemp to insulate the building, and traditional lime renders for the exterior finish. Inside, the walls are also plastered with lime.

Catherine gained permission to add two cottage extensions, each unique and contemporary, creating a striking contrast to the older parts of the building. One gable contains a new living room with wall-to-ceiling glass, which gives uninterrupted views across the loch and the mountains. ‘I love the glass box,’ says Catherine, who was inspired by images of a house in Belgium with a similar addition. ‘You can relax inside with a glass of wine and still experience the wildness of this place.’

The second extension houses the bathroom. Catherine’s architect, the award-winning Maxime Laroussi, suggested a concept inspired by the barns on surrounding farms. Those barns are often made from a section of corrugated iron, and Catherine’s curved cocoon echoes that local style. ‘It has a cozy feel of being enclosed, but there are great views from the bath,’ says Catherine.

Her own ‘modern rustic’ interior style is all about celebrating natural, hand-crafted elements. ‘My approach was to use traditional raw materials and let them shine through,’ says Catherine, who opened up the ceilings of the original cottage to bring in more space and light. Her palette is all warm yellows and muted greens, which sit beautifully against the off-white lime plaster, with rugs and soft furnishings in natural colors, adding warmth and texture.

Catherine has brought her own quirky vision to the evolution of this old cottage. The lime render around the bath is curvy and sensuous, and the basin appears as though hewn from a single piece of rock. While hardy types may wish to start the day with a sprint down to the loch and a plunge into its peaty depths, Catherine prefers a soak in her outdoor bath, nestled in the cottage’s grounds.

‘I’m interested in re-wilding, so I consulted gardener Mary Reynolds, who suggested planting wildflowers, clover, and herbs. It was just lovely last summer.’

Yet while the location may be inspirational, it also meant a tough working environment for Catherine’s team. ‘In the fall the weather was so wet and wild, the wind picked up my builder’s site office – a caravan – and threw it over,’ recalls Catherine.

Catherine’s cottage is ready for another 200 years of admiring the sunset, swapping stories around the fire, or just relaxing and becoming absorbed in the landscape. ‘It’s a fantastic place,’ she says. ‘There’s no light pollution, so the stars are amazing. And there’s a really peaceful atmosphere.’

Limehouse Cottage is available to rent via Unique Homestays