It was in 2008 that Vintage Home guest editor and Country Living columnist Paula Sutton felt the draw of Norfolk's big skies and luminous sunsets.
After years of London living, she longed to move her family to a more rural setting, and knew just the type of property she was looking for. Fortunately for this Jane Austen devotee, an online search uncovered her dream home, a Georgian house (complete with picturesque shutters) in a small village surrounded by fields and animals. Even Mrs Bennett would have been thrilled to find it.
From the outside, Hill House, an 1822 brewmaster’s house set within just under an acre of garden, looks magnificently grand. But looks can be deceiving.
"There are no frills," laughs Paula, explaining that there are no fancy elements in its interior architecture. Still, with its high ceilings, tall skirting boards and symmetrical “doll’s house” proportions, the property is classic in its design. "I've added the theatrics and interesting colour with paintings and fabrics," says Paula, a self-confessed maximalist.
After moving in, she softened the formality of the interiors, making them more relaxed and family-friendly for her three young children. While remaining sympathetic to the house’s period, she introduced timeless elements such as ceramics, textiles and uplifting paint colours.
Country Living Country Living Vintage Home (Number 8)
"I've been a bit of a mixologist when it comes to different styles and eras," she says. "I’m a romantic and love gilt and shine, so there are mirrors and paintings everywhere. I create groups of things on my walls, decadent pieces full of interest. I refuse to fill a gap until I find something I truly love."
17 years on, Paula is still finessing the rooms: "I haven't finished yet. I call myself a slow decorator. I find such joy in discovering pieces for it."
When the family first arrived at Hill House, the furniture from their London terraced home filled just two rooms, so sourcing new pieces has been a labour of love. Old-fashioned armoires have become an addiction: both useful and beautiful, the six Paula owns, along with a Georgian housekeeper's cupboard, conceal or display a multitude of collections. This storage proves invaluable for her vintage treasures, particularly ceramics such as Cabbageware, which she adores.
Local vintage shops are regular haunts, alongside antiques fairs and markets. Heirlooms also play an important role, with a baby grand piano (from Paula’s husband’s concert pianist great-aunt) taking pride of place in the living room. Next on the horizon is a shepherd’s hut renovation, which is sure to receive the same thoughtful attention as this beautiful house. Mrs Bennett would undoubtedly approve.
For more about Paula, see hillhousevintage.com.
Vintage & antique magazine racks
Michele has worked on women’s lifestyle magazines since leaving the University of West London after studying Media, Business and Communication Studies. She has been on Country Living for the past 14, also joining House Beautiful six years ago. She now works across both brands as Group Chief Sub-editor, maintaining the quality and accuracy of the print titles, and ensuring they both get to press on time. Michele also works on Modern Rustic, and is editor of Country Living’s Vintage Home, an annual bookazine celebrating vintage interior style, which is a passion of hers alongside reading, crocheting and UK travel
