Article featuring the home of José Strawson.

Words by Celia Rufey, Photographs by Polly Eltes

 

The highlights of an English summer play host to our irresistible selection of simple spots, charming checks and subtle stripes...

Hark back to times past for decoration ideas...

 

Antique painted furniture and pretty textiles combine to give the country home of fabric designer Barbara Coupe, a distinctly French feel... 

 Check out gingham...

 

Choose this pretty, traditional fabric to add a quintessential cottage-style look to your home.

 

 

 

Cotton and linens make ideal grounds for a new league of modern country embroidered fabrics, where the design is fresh and open. Use layer upon layer, mixing designs and textures for fresh sitting rooms and soft bedroom schemes.

Inspirational decorating

Sunflower yellow, the dark shades of olive trees, a touch of terracotta earth with tinges of lavender are the colours of this harvest kitchen.

Fresh Apple Green Gingham.    

 Tablecloth made from our gingham fabric.  Click to go direct to Apple Green fabric by the metre. xcart/product.php?productid=52&cat=29&page=1

After its success on the catwalk, apple green is catching on at home.  It looks great with wooden floors, and goes with most colours.  A favourite combination is vibrant green, rich cream and terracotta.

You don't have to use lashings of colour and pattern to create interiors with impact - pale, simple schemes can be equally elegant and welcoming.