The Perfect English, Country Cottage

The epitome of an English, country cottage conjures images of those pictures we see on chocolate boxes and English postcards. Quaint, thatched roof buildings with mullion windows, surrounded by an overflowing garden filled with the scent of the old fashioned roses.

Today's home tour is what I would call a 'true English, country cottage'. Situated in Dorset, a county to the South West of England, this area is renown for its picturesque countryside and quaint, thatched roof cottages. Thatching is a dying art but there are still skilled thatchers in the UK that are kept busy restoring or repairing the artful roofs. The interior design of the cottage is by Stephanie Dunning, Stephanie has worked with the owners to retain the cottage appeal, however she has blended old and new for a less traditional look. Bold colour has been used in some spaces, (see the library shelves of navy blue) and antique art pieces lie adjacent to contemporary works, giving the home its unique look.

Above: The crowing glory, a thatch roof

Above: antique and contemporary art work fantastically together

Above: The kitchen is new but kept in character with the home

A set of antique,Georgian chairs are whitewashed for a modern look

Unusual pieces of furniture are dotted throughout this charming home

A modern light makes a statement in this corner

Check is very much country but mixed with a plain fabric gives this chair an updated look

Blue painted shelving gives this room an arty feel

A cosy sitting room in a mix of furnishing kept in neutral tones is the perfect place to relax

The cottage retains a period fireplace

Usually beams are left in their raw state but sometimes I think they can be a bit dark in a bedroom. Here the beams and ceiling are painted white, enhancing the height of the room which adds to a sense of more space

Above: This corner has been kept traditional with a period chest of drawers and a wing back chair

Every cottage needs at least one, four poster bed

A simple bathroom with a shaker feel

I hope you've enjoyed a glimpse of this pretty English cottage. if you like Stephanie's interior design style, I encourage you to visit her Houzz site, you will find a link at the top of this post.

Enjoy your week