Escape to a historic garden home in the UK

Right now they are repointing the brick in my apartment building, and the never-ending grinding noise is UNbearable. What I wouldn't do for a little silence!  At least I can virtually escape.  One thing I like to do is do property searches for country chalets, manors, and garden cottages throughout the UK and Europe.  I'm always able to find some charming little (and big) property that looks like it's been plucked right out of Pride & Prejudice.  I just delve into the photos and try to imagine what it'd be like to spend the summer there. I used Savills today, and they have an amazing array of dream properties.

Here are two properties I discovered this afternoon.

The first, Clapton Mill, used to be a Paper Mill, and has STUNNING grounds, and even a room in the home where you can view the waterfall that running under the home.

Dreamy.

Another gem I found is a Georgian property in a secluded village setting...just the description makes me feel a little better!

I'd spend most of my time outside and in this bright studio

I'd take my high tea out in the garden...I don't know how proper that is though...

What do you think of these homes - how long would you like to retreat in them?

*disclosure: this post in partnership with Savills.co.uk

How about holiday in a charming English country estate

Well, maybe not this year, but getting a glimpse inside these gorgeously decorated homes for rent is still a treat.

The "Treverra House" in Cornwall, is one of my favorite for rent by Perfect Stays.

I like the sparse, neutral way the house is decorated.  I think it makes it easier to relax and unwind.

What do you think of the harlequin armoire?

happiness is a warm bath

I think the image above is from a different property they manage - isn't it charming?

The view is so gorgeous and the room so light-filled.  If I lived here, I would probably end up bringing my laptop and papers to the table and work from there...

You can see pictures of all of their properties on the Perfect Stays site.

via Perfect Stays

Creating a "Universe of One's Own"

I was lucky enough to stumble across the interior design of Ludwig. These rooms can't help but evoke passion and a little bit of mystery. Ludwig designs for period properties but does so in a way that could be lived in now. I really don't need to say much - you'll see for yourself. Enjoy :)
















via Ludwig Interior Design

You can smell spring coming in these photos!

These gorgeous shots are the genius of photographer Debi Treloar. They remind me of hot summers growing up on the Chesapeake Bay. There was a time of day that was so still one couldn't do anything but nap in a shady spot or read in a corner by an open window. I can smell the warm air and almost hear the flower buds opening. *sigh* I need a country garden!

I would have spent so many days in this room reading Anne of Green Gables.





It's hard to imagine days so hot you didn't even want to turn on the lights, but that's what this image reminds me of.

























via Debi Treloar