Makeover of a Haybale Studio

When I was invited to refresh this strawbale studio, I stepped into a space that already carried years of history, love, care and character. The owners had poured so much of themselves into the space over time, and I felt like I was simply adding the next gentle chapter in its evolution.

The bones were already so beautiful, curved walls, a built-in bed nook, dining seating and handcrafted details everywhere. It just needed a serious tidy, a few layers of paint, and a whole lot of love. One thing I did, with lots of help from farm friends was tackle the front little courtyard. There was one massive old tree root to dig out, then we levelled it, compacted it and laid down crushed limestone. A few festoon lights, plants, some comfy chairs and an outdoor table, it became one of my favourite spots.

I leaned into natural textures and calming neutrals: rattans, linens, ceramics, vintage jars, and anything that felt earthy or handmade. With the right pieces and some thoughtful styling, the space transformed into a warm, rustic retreat that celebrated simplicity and the natural beauty around it.