Welcome to the Style Journal Amelia. Please tell us a bit about yourself and your home.

I am Amelia, I’ve just turned 30, am married to Damon and have a little boy, Archie, who is 20 months, and a cocker spaniel called Fig. We live in a Victorian semi in Yorkshire that we bought in Jan 2020 as first time buyers with lots of ideas and little budget. We’ve done lots of DIY since then and turned our house into our perfect family home!



Your style blends a contemporary look with period features, how do you make sure the two are well-blended and complementary?

I like to use traditional elements to anchor a space, such as our fireplace in the lounge, as well as adding coving and panelling into the spaces. And then blend this with more modern pieces in the furniture and decor which is fit for our family life. I once saw some advice from an interior designer which said you should have one antique piece or period feature in each room, so I try and follow that!

With a large Instagram following, you must be used to others finding inspiration amongst your photographs and videos. Where do seek your own inspiration?

I spend hours on Instagram and Pinterest looking at other people's homes as well as interior design accounts, I love picking out ideas from others! I also love to take inspiration from places we’ve visited, hotels, restaurants, garden, I really do think there is inspiration everywhere !

We first spotted your account thanks to your gorgeous island featuring our Butler pendant lights. What does good lighting mean to you?

I really feel lighting makes or breaks a space, it can bring everything together as well as provide focal points. I also feel the more lighting sources the better to give differing options, for example in our kitchen we have spotlights, island lights, wall lights and a lamp.

In your opinion, what are the three key ingredients for creating a relaxed, enjoyable home?

I would say to use a wide variety of textures within the spaces; from fabrics, rugs, woods, painted furniture, and within this, to draw inspiration from nature and natural materials. For example, wools and linens, all which lead to a relaxed environment which doesn’t feel too structured. I also like to add my patterns and colour in the fabrics and upholstery, keeping the bases neutral, again I find that leads to a more calming environment. But ultimately, I think you have to do what makes you happy, whatever that may be!

The property features a few dusky, chalky walls throughout, with a few shocks of darker colour. How you decide on a scheme, and who are your go-to paint brands?

I like to keep our walls pretty neutral, and add colours into the fitted furniture which adds some contrast and interest without being too overpowering in the room. My go to paint brands are always Farrow and Ball, Paint and Paper Library and Coat Paints!

You have a fantastic view from your balcony. Can you tell us about how you styled this area to make use of a unique outside space?

The balcony was actually my husband's idea and I’m so glad he pushed for it, as it’s one of my favourite places in our home! We have such a gorgeous view of the Yorkshire countryside from here which really does all the talking. I wanted to keep the space simple but add some big planters to bring some greenery and flowers to the area to make it feel more like a garden. We also added some comfy seating, leaning into the relaxed environment of the balcony.

And finally, a few quick fire questions: What’s the staple homeware piece that every house needs?

In terms of decor pieces, I really feel a really good bouquet of faux flowers can change a space, it’s adds colour, texture and that ‘life’ elements and can bring a space together.

Your favourite Jim Lawrence product?