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The perfect blend


MERRY AND BEN ALBRIGHT COMMISSIONED LOCAL CRAFTSMEN TO BUILD A CHARMING OAK - FRAMED COTTAGE THAT LOOKS AS IF IT HAS STOOD FOR CENTURIES.
I can barely remember the black corrugated iron bam that stood here before/ says Merry Albright.
It was quite a local landmark. Merrys father had bought the tiny parce] ol land many years previously and was more than happy for Merry to activate the planning permission that was close to lapsing. Although the proposition was not without problems due to the awkward size of the plot, Merry embraced the challenge church and surrounded by listed buildings so I felt that the position deserved something traditional, says Merry. Pretty dormer windows, handmade clay tiles and a cantilevered oak porch were included in the design so that the house would complement its surroundings. Natural materials were used to construct the house so that it will mellow and soften with the passing seasons, blending into the landscape and forging a relationship with nearby houses, have underfloor heating, solid oak floors and vaulted ceilings, says Merry. One aspect that proved crucial was maximising the small floor area, which demanded clever design solutions. We sourced an external boiler so nothing would spoil the lines of the handmade kitchen, and we changed the floor plans so that some doors were omitted and others opened different ways. Outside we created a simple courtyard, which is thankfully easy to look after.

The perfect blend

Border Oak, built the cottage using medieval carpentry skills. And I wondered if it was possible to use local craftspeople to furnish the cottage too, says Merry. A blacksmith made the latches for the windows and doors, and was happy to make the bespoke handrail and curtain poles. I found a ceramic artist through an open studio event and she made some of the lights using porcelain and hedgerow flowers. Even the bespoke linen sofas were made just 30 minutes away.
Other commissions included notice boards, tables and mirrors that Merry designed and were made by her cousin, a carpenter. I enjoy rummaging in salvage yards and re - using materials, she says. Vintage pieces came from local shops and auction houses and were chosen to suit layering it all together with things I have made myself. Its an eco - friendly and inexpensive way to furnish a house, but can take a bit of time searching for the right piece.
The most striking decorative statement is probably the exposed oak frame that is held together with seasoned oak pegs. When the sun streams through a window, highlighting the grain of the timber, says Merry, T am always struck by how charming and reassuring it is.
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