“Why I love…” are a series of blogs from Lucy – the owner of Craven House – about what she loves and why. This week, Lucy tells us why she loves…interior design.
I often get compliments on the interior design at Craven House which makes me happy as I’ve always had a great interest in how a room looks and makes you feel when you enter. I thoroughly love looking at and matching fabrics, furniture and colour, even the accessories play a huge part in how you want the room to ultimately look.
Accessories at Craven House
My interest grew when we bought Craven House 10 years ago and renovated all 5 apartments. It took a while and a lot of hard work but we finally got there. In 2010, once the project was complete, we moved in to our own family home, Rosewood – a three storey property that needed a complete renovation. I was in my element! I wanted to create a family home but with areas that allowed the adults to socialise as well as create quiet areas for my kids to relax and play. It was a huge success and the whole family has enjoyed many happy years in this home.
Refurbishment at Craven House
Then, just over 12 months ago, to keep up with changing styles and modern lines, we decided to undergo a major refurbishment of all apartments at Craven House. As you can imagine, I was very excited! Craven House is a beautiful listed Georgian building so we had to be sympathetic to its inherent design and build. The creativity involved in this project was about reflecting the beauty of this building and its beautiful setting.
Craven House
What changed?
The Park Suite is so called as it almost sits in the trees of Bushy Park. My aim was to add to the inherently cosy, warm and more rustic feel of this apartment so rich greens, copper, oranges and aubergine colours of the changing seasons were chosen to reflect the outdoor views. We added a British cosiness through plaids, wools and velvets.
Park Suite
The Court Suite looks directly onto Hampton Court Palace. We had to think of what interior can reflect these privileged surrounding but at the same time wanted to bring a more delicate, palace garden feel without creating a chintzy look. Therefore, we chose muted floral linen fabrics for the beds and the armoire. We selected floral patterned cushions and delicate grey soft throws for the sofas and the bed. We replaced the modern storage units with grey painted wooded alternatives and selected a beautiful ornate antique armoire for the lounge.
Court Suite
The Upper Garden Suite sits level with the grounds of Bushy Park and has numerous windows. It was important that the interior design did not fight with this amazing view but complemented it. We chose a neutral, natural palette – grey tweeds, cream woods, brown leather and copper touches and the antler light.
Upper Garden Suite
The Lower Garden Suite and The Studio are in the basement and so we chose more warm and jolly colour palettes and lots of wool to add more warmth and cosiness. Both of these apartments take on a more contemporary, lighter feel.
Lower Garden Suite (above) and The Studio
Home-from-home
It’s so important to me that our guest feel happy, relaxed and at home whilst they stay with us at Craven House. Take a look at our online tour of Craven House. All our rates can be found on our website too.
On the move again
Yes, we are moving to a new family home this year. And guess what? It needs renovating, so I can’t wait!
Until next time….
Best wishes
