We chatted about all things interiors with Rachel Ducker, editor of online lifestyle magazine, Bounce. She shares the inspiration behind her recent renovation project that transformed her Suffolk holiday cottage into a relaxing and welcoming bolthole.
Read on to pick up style tips and ideas from Rachel’s exciting room makeovers.
Can you tell us about the inspiration for your different rooms?
Knightsbridge dining table | Parquet display cabinet
This property is set by the river so we wanted to incorporate a nature/river theme throughout.
I used blues and greens in the living areas, they say the two colours should ‘never be seen’, however, after research mixing blues and green has been very on trend this year.
To bring in more elements of the river I had photographs taken of the local area and put up a feature botanical wall with a neon sign of our house name, The Hideout.
In the bedrooms we kept things neutral and added pops of colour. To keep the flow throughout the house, we used Farrow & Ball Shadow White on all of the white walls.
Why did you pick the different Oak Furnitureland pieces and how have you styled them?
Montgomery sofa | Montgomery armchair
The navy Montgomery sofa was ideal in the living room, I loved the velvet texture and the pop of colour. It works really well with the Farrow & Ball Studio Green feature wall as a contrast. I added some cushions and throws to create layers (and to protect my lovely new furniture from the kiddies and the dog)!
In the dining room we used pieces from the Parquet range as the furniture seemed solid and the oak kept the natural feel I wanted to bring in. We went for the Parquet glass-fronted display cabinet and the Parquet small bookcase, which we use as a cocktail cabinet.
To contrast the dark wooden floors, we chose the Knightsbridge circular table to add warmth to the space. Plus, it’s extendable so you can have four to six people around it. I usually keep the table dressed as I like to see it made up for guests!
How do you plan your decor projects?
I am a big fan of mood boards. I find everything I want to put in the room online and then place it onto a big sheet of paper. That way I can visually see what works and what doesn’t.
What are the most important things to consider when embarking on a project?
Taking precise measurements is a must, you can’t be out by a few centimetres as it could be the difference between something working and something not.
How would you describe your style?
My style is bold but not in your face. I like to add luxurious elements to my rooms but I also try to create a cosy feel where the whole family can feel comfortable.
What are your next home decor plans?
I am currently looking to update my son’s room. He has just turned three and wants a ‘big boy’ bed. So I am looking forward to getting creative on that project.
Thanks to Rachel for sharing her beautiful interiors project. Check out her Instagram @rachelducker or visit @thehideoutsuffolk for more ideas to recreate in your own home. Plus, head to our Instagram @oak_furniture_land for plenty of real home inspration.
