Look Good

Step Inside | Clare Duffy’s Newcastle Townhouse

Clare lives in this gorgeous property with her husband and her adorable beagle Nancy. Let's take a look inside...

Written by High Life North

Published 21.11.2019

By Beverley Park

Let’s step inside…

Believe it or not, this is Clare’s downsize home which they moved into just over a year after selling their family home of 15 years. It’s beautifully decorated in neutral tones with a style that flows so naturally throughout the property.

What attracted you to this house?

We wanted something which wasn’t too big, easy to maintain & relatively new where we only had to update aesthetically and not endure huge building work.

What do you love most about living in Newcastle?

Obviously the people and Fenwick. I love living near the coast mainly for dog walks on the beach, that said I like nothing better than a trip into the city centre for a few gins on Grey Street followed by a gig at the beautiful Sage Gateshead.

How would you describe your taste?

My husband would say expensive! I wouldn’t say I was a traditional girl but I’m not a modern girl either. Let’s go traditional with a modern twist. I’m frightened of bright colours, I like a neutral tone throughout the house.

What has been your boldest styling?

Originally the house had a small galley kitchen and a separate living room which we changed to create an open plan kitchen & living area. Although only a small change, it was a bold decision as it completely changed the style of downstairs.

When styling your home do you primarily consider the look or the feel?

Whilst I think something has to look pleasing on the eye, the feeling within our home is so important. For example, when designing the living area I knew that a fire was a must. It’s nice to have a focal point to look at but also wanted that cosy feeling.

What do you most enjoy about interiors and styling?

I think it’s the feeling you get when you’ve created something unique to you. Be it how you simply place things on a shelf or the design of a whole room. It’s you and your work.

Where are your go-to interior shops?

I’m very lucky to have a lodge in North Yorkshire and there’s a fantastic little shop in Malton called Hare & Wilde which I love to wander in. You can always pick up some lovely little interior bits. Also, Neptune York is a firm favourite and not forgetting good old Ikea!

Where do you look for inspiration?

I absolutely love Neptune and visit the York store whenever I can. It is inspiration heaven! Not forgetting all the beautiful home accounts on Instagram & Pinterest too.

Are you a fan of DIY? If so what are your tips for others?

I love DIY! There’s no better sense of achievement than getting a job done yourself. My tips for others would be, firstly have a little read on how to do something. Pinterest is great for this, and then give it a go! Also, make sure you have a strong marriage as it can cause arguments.

What’s your essential accessory?

Candles. They look good in every single space or room and also give that cosy feeling.

We love Clare’s practical yet stylish approach to renovation and interior design. How satisfying to look at your home and know you did the work yourself with a little bit of research and some good old DIY. Despite the warmth and homely feel of this townhouse, not forgetting the dreaded memories of packing up their last family home after 15 years, we can tell there might be one more renovation in Clare and her husband!

https://www.instagram.com/clareduffyxx/