Look Good

Interiors | Modern Country at Ivy Cottage

This week we take a look inside Catherine from @ivy_cottage_country_living_'s home - a Grade 2 listed cottage in a small village just outside of Durham...

Written by High Life North
Published 08.11.2019

By Beverley Park

HLN meets Cat from @Ivy_Cottage_Country_Living_

With tree-lined streets, an old castle, a boutique gift and coffee shop and miles of unspoilt countryside, it’s no wonder Cat chose to make Ivy Cottage in Brancepeth Village home. With its warm tones, unique original features, creeping ivy and a special hint of glamour, you’ll see why we all love it.

What do you love most about living in North East England?

The stunning countryside, from the Northumberland Coast, Durham Dales, North Pennines and the Durham Heritage Coast. We have the beauty of Durham City on our doorstep with its cathedral and castle, as well as local beaches only a 20-minute drive away. We’ve got great restaurants, local interior businesses to feed my passion and plenty to do in our leisure time as a family.

What attracted you to this beautiful village?

We have always loved and admired old period style houses and cottages making Brancepeth Village the perfect location. Village life, country walks and the surrounding countryside was our dream. The village is full of listed properties with such character and history that were mainly built by Brancepeth Castle Estate. The grade 1 listed castle was built in the late 14thcentury, it’s so wonderful having it just a stone throw from our front door. 

How would you describe your style?

My interior style is without a doubt full of charm, I’d say rustic with a bit of modern! I aim for modern country so it’s in keeping with the cottage whilst adding a few quirky interior touches. My home is always full of fresh flowers.

I like to play with colour although I do love greys and greens mostly. Farrow and Ball Cornforth White and Hardwick White paint colours are two of my favourites.  There are pops of pink throughout the cottage and darker colours which I love to paint.

You could say I’ve kept the essence of the old original nineteenth-century period charm with a modern twist. 

What’s the one accessory you can’t live without?

Cushions without a doubt! 

How do you style your home for Autumn?

I like to bring the season indoors with colour, wreaths and pumpkins.  I’m also a big fan of seasonal foliage which I like to forage, I use it throughout the cottage. Candles and cosy warm colours are a must, as are layered blankets, throws and a welcoming open fire.

Where do you go to for styling inspiration?

My go-to places are Instagram, Pinterest, and interior magazines – and who doesn’t love a good showroom! 

What are your favourite North East interior shops?

Busy Bee Studio

Belle and Blossom

The Glasshouse at Wynyard Hall

Fenwick

John Lewis

Cox and Cox

Corbridge Garden Room  

See more of Cat’s home and style on Instagram at @ivy_cottage_country_living_ where she shares her love of country cottage life, interiors and styling and her adorable dog Bailey – not to mention her love of fashion and that early morning cup of peppermint tea. 

https://www.instagram.com/ivy_cottage_country_living_/?hl=en
Other stories by High Life North
The Crown: Shop the style of Princess Diana’s iconic looks
29.11.2023

The Crown: Shop the style of Princess Diana’s iconic looks

High Life North
Laura Kingston editor High Life North autumn style staples
12.09.2023

The autumn staples our editor is buying right now

High Life North
The Watcher Naomi Watts fashion style
22.10.2022

The Watcher: Shop the style of Naomi Watts as Nora Brannock

High Life North
07.09.2022

How flowers are being used to tell stories of inspirational women and Durham’s history

High Life North
09.08.2022

Touch the rainbow, wear the rainbow! Colourful outfits perfect for holidays

High Life North
25.07.2022

Looking for summer nails ideas? Check out these six Newcastle nail salons (and beyond) for some inspo

High Life North