Subtly

Although most of us can't afford a house with a kitchen like Burghley's it is still possible to draw inspiration from it. The palette of the room is very subtle and complementary (helped by age). Copper, brown, yellow and beige have never looked so good! The copper is shiny so splashes of colour aren't necessary. Copper pans are expensive here in England but you can catch some real bargains in French car boot sales if they take your fancy. Country kitchen at it most glorious and sincere.

Burghley House kitchen, Lincolnshire.
Source: Hidden England

Creative wall painting

Tucked away in the South Downs lies the 18th century farmhouse, Charleston. Once home and retreat to the Bloomsbury group the house now attracts many visitors due to it's unique interiors. Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant were responsible for transforming an ordinary farmhouse into something of international importance. Almost every surface has been cleverly painted and decorated, whether calculated or not, and has achieved a highly personalised and decorative interior. Bell's and Grant's work provides many inspired ideas on how to transform your own house.

Brush and sponge work the walls of the dining room at Charleston
Source:  Charleston Farmhouse website

The dining room at Charleston
Source: Getty Images

The hand painted and sponged walls in the dining room are particularly effective and provides a surprisingly cosy look without being gloomy. Paintings, furniture and the large fireplace provide breaks in what could be an over-powering wall design. This pattern would also be great for a snug or bathroom. Why not change the colours to suit your taste?

Charleston dining room.
Source: Charleston Farmhouse Website