Thursday 31 May 2012

An old farmhouse in the morning sun

With a glorious morning here in England and the restoration of our old farmhouse(built in the early to mid 1500's)coming on in leaps and bounds it seemed an ideal time for a few quick photographs! I am thrilled to say that we have finished the first floor and attic bedrooms and the new carpets have been laid and we are enjoying 'paddling' around in bare feet! The trials and hard work of the last few years have been soothed by the comforts of freshly painted rooms and furniture free from layers of inch thick dust. We have a little way to go with the soft furnishing but here are a few photo's of our old farmhouse in her new Spring look!
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - an occasional table in the smallest bedroom showing one of the wall beams that we uncovered under layers of wallpaper. The lamp is from Laura Ashley the white box picture frame from Homebase (rose from the garden - a climbing rose named Iceberg
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the smallest bedroom - the vintage wrought iron daybed is French and can be turned into a child's cot 
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the smallest bedroom - the antique corner cupboard was from a Victorian kitchen and we have left it unpainted inside with the warm colour of the old pine giving a lovely contrast.
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the smallest bedroom - this shows the wobbly ceilings we have throughout the house (the floors are the same) and the depth of the window ledge shows the thickness of the old wattle and daub walls.
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the smallest bedroom - the sunlight shows the texture of the original lime plaster and the rather quirky uneven height windows. If you crawl on the windowsill on the left it takes you behind the wall on to the staircase(see below)! 
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the landing on the first staircase - the windowsill that leads through to the smallest bedroom! It also makes a great spot to sit and read. The windows are painted in Farrow and Ball Green Stone, sadly no longer available.
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the smallest bedroom - the 'secret' windowsill passage that leads through to the staircase (shown above). The Rococo style mirror is a new find (see below). The curtains are made from a gorgeously thick slub cotton fabric bought at The Conran Shop around 20 years ago, over the years I have re-made the curtains to suit various windows.   
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the smallest bedroom - I couldn't resist this mirror which is a soft chalky taupe shade (my photography is awful!)
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the second staircase - this leads up to the attic bedrooms. If you crawl along the windowsill it takes you behind the wall on the right into the smallest bedroom shown above!
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - down the second staircase from the attic bedrooms to the first floor landing. The balustrades are the original old oak
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the first floor landing - this also shows the white travertine marble floor in our bathroom and the wobbly floors, walls, etc! Walls painted in 'Chalk' by Zoffany
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - one of the first floor bedrooms (more photographs to follow at a later date) my Husband made the cupboard which is painted in Laura Ashley 'Ivory'
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - the view from our bedroom across the landing to the smallest bedroom 
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - our bedroom - the curved structure on the left of the cupboard is the chimney from the room below. The dark furry blob on the settee is Fingle our cat! The cupboard in painted in Farrow and Ball 'Stony Ground' no.211
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - our bedroom - the newly restored fireplace (more photo's to follow at a later date)
Above image: The Paper Mulberry our restoration project - our backdoor (painted in Farrow and Ball Card room green no.79) with grapevine above. The lead pots are actually fibreclay reproductions.  

As the we are now in full flourish finishing the restoration work on our house I will be posting once a month to allow time for both! 

Update: this was our home until November 2012, we would like to wish the new owners every happiness in their new home!

With warmest wishes
 




64 comments:

KiwiStyle said...

Wow, it is just adorable. Must be bringing you great joy. Jane :)

KiwiStyle said...

Wow it just adorable. Must be bringing you great joy. Jane :)

somewhere on the avenue said...

You have a perfect vision and style understanding that has created a beautiful interior. I love to look at other peoples homes and this is one of my favourites by far, i'm looking forward to seeing more in the future x

janzi said...

How admirable your patience is, and what a result you have achieved with your lovely home.. We have been in our georgian property for 14 years, but still working on the basics and have not got as far as you yet, but the efforts are so worth it aren't they... I love the colours you have chosen too, so soothing and ageless.. Good on you, a real result.. we are in derby, where are you based? janzi

Susan T said...

Glenda
It is my birthday today, and what a present, new views of your magical home. I am completely and utterly in love with it. The restoration speaks of love and devotion and an awful lot of hard work. Old ladies like being cosseted I can tell you. There is a serenity about the place that shines through the photographs. You are so lucky to live in such a wonderful house and it in turn is lucky to have found you, a match made in heaven. Much love from here xxxx

letrecivette said...

adorable Glenda!

Pilgrim at Kerjacob said...

Looking at your photographs from my very old farmhouse which we've been working on for 9 years now has been most interesting and enjoyable.
The lime walls and limed beams that we have used and the wonderful sculptured shape of the chimney, again just like ours.

Good luck to you and keep up the hard work.
I'm off into the garden now to tackle that - there's never time to hang around ( except to put out washing !! )

Diane. x

Foxanddahlia said...

What a stunning home you have created Glenda. I know how hard and at times demoralising restoring a house can be, we renovated an old rectory in Somerset many years ago, it seemed to take forever, especially as I had a baby during it all!! I love the soft muted colours and that little bedroom......just gorgeous.
Give yourself a large pat on the back and a very large drink!!
xx

Marjonel M said...

Beautiful home...Prachtig kleur gebruik heel sfeervol!

Lieve groet, marjonel

Jennifer said...

Very beautiful - can't wait to see it completed.

plaits and paisley said...

Thanks for the tour of your fabulous house Glenda.
I adore that mirror frame!
I look forward to to seeing more. Penny x

The enchanted home said...

What stunning images..so restful and peaceful and elegant. Love the neutrality too, such a soothing lovely home you have made!

ANNE said...

What a beautiful place! Love your home, thank you for sharing it!!

Ann said...

Glenda-
Your home is absolutely charming! I cannot imagine how you even knew where/how to start with the renovations!
How old is the structure?

Lana said...

Hi,
Your home is looking amazing. I love all the light. All your choices are perfect. Can't wait to see more.

Dineke@esatto said...

what a wonderful house!! And I love your styling!

Lynne said...

Your home is stunning.
I too love neutrals, and muted green tones. The combination is calming.
You are my favorite stop for casual elegance, Glenda.
The back entry with and the lead planters, is a welcomed tease to "what's inside"! (I was given a lead planter a few years ago. I cherish it as they are difficult to find here.)
Thank you for your stories, and thank you for sharing your lovely home.
~Lynne
w/L.

Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage said...

What a pleasure it is to see the progress of your restoration! I think your photos are wonderful. You do an excellent job of showing the quirks that make such an old house so enchanting. Your colors are wonderful. So happy to see some more of your home.

Paula said...

It's SO beautiful Glenda! I love the textures and the muted colours - so calming, restful and elegant. What fabric did you use for the curtains on the staircase window - the drape is gorgeous. Well done, it's well worth the wait. Absolute perfection!
Paula x

Leslie said...

Thanks for sharing! The Rococo mirror is gorgeous and I love your window treatments. The neutral color and simple style is stunning.

leslie

The Paper Mulberry - Glenda Steel said...

Thank you so much for such wonderful messages - so very generous of you!! Firstly a Happy Birthday to Susan! Now to answer your great questions! We're in the hilly part of Lincolnshire Janzi (the very edge of the Wolds) your Georgian house sounds gorgeous! The house is around 500 years old Ann (thanks for reminding me - I'll pop the info' in the top blurb) The staircase window drapes/curtains I made from a heavy cotton fabric purchased from The Conran Shop around 20 years ago, I have remade them into various curtains over the years! The fabric itself has a horizontal twill in the weave and the shade is my favourite chalk white. Thank you all so much once again and I'll update the post with answers to your kind questions. Warmest wishes and thanks - Glenda xxx

The Paper Mulberry - Glenda Steel said...

Thank you so much for such wonderful messages - so very generous of you!! Firstly a Happy Birthday to Susan! Now to answer your great questions! We're in the hilly part of Lincolnshire Janzi (the very edge of the Wolds) your Georgian house sounds gorgeous! The house is around 500 years old Ann (thanks for reminding me - I'll pop the info' in the top blurb) The staircase window drapes/curtains I made from a heavy cotton fabric purchased from The Conran Shop around 20 years ago, I have remade them into various curtains over the years! The fabric itself has a horizontal twill in the weave and the shade is my favourite chalk white. Thank you all so much once again and I'll update the post with answers to your kind questions. Warmest wishes and thanks - Glenda xxx

Pamela said...

Are you kidding me??? Your home is fabulous!! Lucky girl! Love your home and the decor and colours.
The cat is the best addition.
Pamela xo

Anonymous said...

Your home is absolutely gorgeous and I love the colors used on the walls and fabrics. I can only imagine how proud you must be and glad that the worst of it is over.

All your hard work has paid off. Your farmhouse reminds me of a pearl, illuminating, soft and warm, the perfect place to live.

Jo Farmer said...

I recently found your details on Nina's blog and was wondering if you were able to get a copy of the book. It's a beautiful book so I understand your interest.

I am the distribution agent for for UK and I am currently taking orders. It is in the process of being translated into English and will be available July/August 2012. If you are still interested in securing a copy, please contact me at jo@eliza-interiors-and-design.com.

With thanks
Jo

Jo Farmer said...

I found your details on Nina Hartmann's blog regarding her book 'Vintage by Nina' and was wondering if you were able to secure a copy.

I am the distribution agent for the UK and am currently taking orders. The book is, at the moment, in the process of being translated into English and is expected to be available August/September 2012.

I can be reached at jo@eliza-interiors-and-design.com for more information.

Bestest
Jo

Jo Farmer said...

Beautiful post, love it all.

BTW, are you still wanting a copy of the book VINTAGE by NINA?

Let me know when you get a moment.
Bestest

Jo

Jo Farmer said...

Apologies for the repeat messages, problem with my computer... x

Greet Lefèvre said...

Dear Glenda,
Your home is just gorgeous! Love all the pictures you take! The plaster structure of the walls is just beautiful!
Oh dear what a heavenly place!
Thank you for sharing this with us all!
Hugs,
Greet

The Snowdrop Project said...

Aaah Glenda,
Simple pleasures - new carpets - bare feet!
Your home looks divine, and we can see the hard work and love you have put into this project.
Hope you have a lovely day.
Lizx

Unknown said...

Good luck with the rest of the house!
Looking forward to more photos!
//Elisabeth from Sweden

LA VIE EN ROSE said...

WOW Glenda, you HAVE been busy! This is divine! and so YOU! very muted, chalky, rough plaster. All gorgeous, I can't wait to see the rest of it. I always get excited when I see that you've posted!!!

Sharon
xxxx

Karen said...

How charming and inviting you've made it. You must be thrilled to have finished some of the most important rooms. Thank you for sharing.
Karen

Notes From ABroad said...

I will memorise everything you have done for when we have moved and start our renovations on our next new/old house.
I love the colours, the doors, everything ..
See you in a month :)

therelishedroost said...

Absolutely love it!!! How quaint and relaxing!!!! It has such good energy.

helen tilston said...

Hello Glenda

Your house from an architectural perspective is fascinating and unique.
Your choice of colour and furnishings is so refreshing. The F & B colours look like they are specifically made for you. I will be looking forward to seeing more and it is lovely to meet Fingle. Your husband is a master carpenter. Bravo. Your home made with love
Helenxx

The Vintage Rose said...

Just beautiful......x

1 said...

Everything is just beautiful. Actually, everything that I have seen come through this blog has been incredible!

Have a wonderful weekend.

Renza said...

Una casa da sogno ,piena di atmosfera
complimenti.
Ciao Renza

Anonymous said...

Absolutely gorgeous Glenda!!! Your home is spectacular and you have done an amazing job restoring it!
I love the old wooden beams in the bedroom! You are so fortunate to live in such a remarkable home !
Have a beautiful weekend.
Sincerely,
Melinda

Robynne's Nest said...

Thankyou Glenda, for the tour of your lovely home...I just love those beams peeking out from the walls and the beautiful old stripped doors...as an Aussie I'm constantly amazed at the history and age of the homes that some lucky people get to live in. Back home in Oz one can't imagine living in such an old property. I look forward to your next show and tell! Robx
p.s. have a great Jubilee weekend.

designchic said...

It is absolutely wonderful, Glenda. I love the warm and inviting feel and the patina of the wood is amazing!! What a stunning labor of love...happy weekend.

Unknown said...

So charming!
Congratulations
xoxo
Mari

LB said...

My Dear Glenda, I so enjoyed seeing these images of your warm and wonderful home. It has such charm! It is evident you have infused your lovely, loving energy into every corner. All my best to you and your husband. xo~L

carolyn bradford said...

Your home looks like my dream come true! It is just beautiful, Glenda! Thank you so much for sharing it with all of us! I've loved seeing all of your pins on Pinterest and I'm so glad I've been able to read your blog as well! I look forward to following it for a long time!
Carolyn Bradford

Ivy Clad said...

Glenda, this post is such a treat! Your home looks so beautiful! Congratulations on your progress! I look forward to seeing more of it later.

Keri

Marit said...

Absolutely georgous!!! I love what you have done with the place! And the curtains was lovely! Can't wait to see the rest of it :)

Marit

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful home you have.. so inspirational. Best of luck with all the further restorations, can't wait to see it all. x Bec

Wendy Paula said...

Truly beautiful Glenda, the rewards for all your hard work are breathtaking:)
Wendy x

Candylei said...

It is perfect! Thank you for showing us your wonderful decorating. I love the colors and textures and the sanded door!

Rozmeen said...

Hi Glenda,

How are you?

I love the way your home looks.. just stunning..

We are leaving for France this sunday for three weeks. cant wait :-)

Wishing you a lovely day.
xoxo Rozmeen

Shabbyness said...

I love this house!!!!!

Decor de Provence said...

It's absolutely stunning!! My dream home... seriously!! Everything about your home is so soothing and homey! Thank you so much for sharing your treasure with us! A brilliant mind you are!

xx
Desiree

Gardener's Gaze said...

Breathless. Beautiful, Glenda!

Velvet Ribbon said...

Looks great- it must be rewarding to see it all coming together!

Mona Thompson Providence Ltd. said...

So lovely...I'm adoring your curtains...so soft and beautiful. XO, Mona

The Paper Mulberry - Glenda Steel said...

Thank you so much for such generous and kind comments! Warmest wishes - Glenda xxx

AweSomeLiving By Rosita de Jongh said...

What a wonderful home to live ..... the passion and love of setting radiates from there ... who wants to live ... not as nice week greetings dear Rosita

Evi said...

your house is one of the most charming I have ever seen. I love all the nooks and crannies. It reminds me of my grandparents home in Germany where my dad grew up. I love your style of decorating. Can't wait to see what is next.

Anonymous said...

This fits the definition of a perfect English cottage.

ALISON said...

Thankyou for the peek inside .....your house looks so peaceful....love farrow and ball colours...ciao Alison

Anonymous said...

Hi Glenda
It is just beautiful! You have the greatest taste! What a peaceful place to sleep and relax. Enjoy. x Kimberley (Have you seen our chocolat blog, I mentioned you!). x

stina sæm said...

Your home is stunning Glenda.
So beautiful and bright, with all these soft colors and fabrics.. simple divine in all way.
I just cant imagine having a cottage this old :)


Thank you for sharing it with us.
my best wishis for you
Stína Sæm

Unknown said...

Such a beautiful house, did you do all of the decorating and design? I'm an interior painter myself, and I really admire the color palette you've captured in the photos. Keep the great images coming!