CLASSIC COMBINATION

With its mix of contemporary style and traditional comforts, the home of Hannah and Andrew Klimcke is simply timeless.
Rcstoring period properties can be a stimulating challenge, but only if the timing is right. Hannah and Andrew Klimcke would have loved to take on a renovation project, but with thci r fl rst ch i Id on the way, the couples options were limited. We were living in a beautiful Georgian terraced house in Teddington at the time. Hannah recalls, but we wanted a place with a bigger garden. Andrew and 1 searched for an old house to do up. but in truth, we didnt really fancy buying a place where wed have to rip everything out and start again.

HELP FROM MUM
Because the Klimckcs had to remain close to Hannahs interiors shop, located just along the river from their Surrey home, they decided to search in a nearby village, where the pair had both attended school.
As things turned out, it was 1 lannahs mother who first sported the property that was to become the couples future home. It was a new development but she urged us to have a look online. says Hannah. In due course, she and Andrew visited the site and were able to view the house at its breeze - block stage. Even at that point I could envisage how the place would look, Hannah says. 1 liked the layout over three floors, but more importantly, it would be ready to move into before I had the baby!

PERSONAL TOUCH
The developers had based the design on a classic Tudor style, with plenty of exposed beams and bricks, and big. square rooms. Accustomed to older properties with alcoves and quirks, Hannah admits this took a little getting used to. On the plus side. I was able to get all the rooms painted in the colours I chose, but I realised it was up to me to create the right atmosphereand interest using furniture and accessories. she says. Running the shop has given me plenty of experience in knowing how to put a look together, so I was excited to be able to start with a blank canvas in my own home.

A TIMELY FIND
I enjoy mixing French, modern. Oriental and vintage styles, tying the schemes together with strong neutrals and natural fabrics. I lannah continues. She also says she was greatly helped by a chance discovery: a source of second - hand curtains and blinds. A friend mentioned a local shop to me. which features a fantastic selection. Hannah says. It has some brilliant designs and Ive managed to customise lots of them. Using seconds is a great cost - saver if youve got several big windows to dress.
Plus you can also sell the curtains on if you grow tired of them.

FRENCH CONNECTION
Hannahs enduring inspiration for her home - and the interiors business - is the South of France, where her parents have long owned a house. She is a regular visitor to Provence, both for holidays and stock - buying trips, but many things. Hannah admits, dont even find their way in the boutique. I like to display unusual pieces here. she says. If visitors comment on them, I know theyll do well in the shop.
With the family now firmly at home in the new - build, does Hannah have any regrets about not taking on a period renovation? This place has so many modern conveniences. I think weve got the best of both worlds, she enthuses.