At home with Bella Middleton: A Norfolk life
For Bella Middleton, founder of Norfolk Natural Living, home is somewhere that should feel lived in, loved and full of personality.
After moving from London to Norfolk, Bella found a pace of life that immediately felt right for her family. Her interiors follow much the same philosophy: old English country style, layered prints, artwork, ceramics and pieces with a story behind them.
"My whole vibe at home is old English country style. I want the space to feel lived in, where nothing is too precious and I'm not going to fluff the sofa cushions as people stand up. I love the ramshackleness when the house is full of children, dogs and friends."
Scent plays an equally important role. From diffusers and candles to room mists, Bella uses fragrance to create a different feeling in each room, with the Norfolk landscape itself providing plenty of inspiration. Her Coastal Walks fragrance was born after a rain-soaked family walk on Holkham Beach.
Home comforts
TEA OR COFFEE?
I drink Lady Grey or Lapsang Souchong, made in a teapot.
BATH OR SHOWER?
Shower in the morning, bath at night. If it's a Saturday and pouring with rain, there's nothing so decadent as a bath in the middle of the day.
PAINT OR WALLPAPER?
I'm mad about wallpaper. Our house is full of it. I love Cole & Son, Colefax and Fowler, and the Honeysuckle design by May Morris, William Morris's daughter.
FAVOURITE HOMEMADE MEAL?
Heavenly smoked haddock chowder.
BEST APPLIANCE?
A Sage bread maker. I bake overnight, so we wake to the smell of fresh bread.
MOST TREASURED POSSESSION?
My family and photographs.
From her love of William Morris to the simple pleasure of Sunday mornings with tea, newspapers, cake in the oven and a roast to look forward to, step inside Bella's Norfolk home and discover more about the inspiration behind Norfolk Natural Living.
Read the full interview in the Autumn edition of Sowerbys' at home magazine.