SNAP HAPPY
The love of interiors runs in Cleo Dicksons family her father is an architect, husband Andrew is a property investor and Cleo herself is the director of an interior design company So its not surprising she transforms any property she lives in. Ive never set out to have a "project", but I seem to be drawn to properties that need work! muses Cleo. as she speculates on her most recent venture, an 18th - century Dorset farmhouse.
The Dicksons latest home started life as two farm cottages, which were knocked together to create one larger property. It was extended 15 years ago by previous owners and the changes were sympathetic - the stone walls, mullioncd windows and low ceilings of the extension perfectly match the farmhouses original proportions. The house was fabulous anyway, but it did need some time and love lavishing on it.Cleo continues. The property was quite dark with no proper lighting other than a few wall lights when we purchased it. The whole house was a bit neglected, but as soon as I walked in. i knew what I needed to do to make it into a real family home for us.
Work started as soon as the family moved in and fortunate!) for the couple an omission by the local planners many years earlier meant i lie properl у was exempt from any listing. It gave the Dicksons lie freedom to create the home they envisaged. including reconfiguring I lie entire first floor to make the bast use of the space it offered. We were lucky that it wasnt listed, but eve:i so. there was no way we iveiv going to do something that wasnt sympathetic to the original house, explains Cleo. It was more a case of making it work better for us and to create a more welcoming and tain ify - oriented space Rewired, replumbed and with building work finished, the farmhouse - made from 2) pair of cottages was now a luxurious family home. Phase two in Qcos quest was the decor, and the couple delved into their passion lor photography, using it as the inspiration for a muted colour palette. We both studied photography 211 university and love the simplicity of black - and - white photographs They also create such a neutral and classic canvas, enthuses Cleo. referring to the white and differing shades of grey throughout their home.
Clcos low - key choice of colour also provides the perfect backdrop for the carefully chosen selection of furnishings. I wanted a contemporary feel, but one that wouldnt look out of place. she explains. I worked for ar. antiques dealer years ago and have been investing in pieces ever since. Ive always favoured an eclectic mix and I wanted that here, combining the traditional with a younger generation of furniture. Its a concept that works perfectly, as vintage pieces sit seamlessly with contemporary designs to create a classic interior that can also withstand the onslaught of four boys and two dogs.
Eight years on. Cleo and Andrew are still enjoying adding to their home. Eventually. Id like to change the kitchen, says Cleo. But for the moment, another project takes priority. Building a slate infinity pool set into the hill above the orchard is next on my list before the boys get too much older!
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