Creating a welcoming space: insights from an interior specialist’s Dorset home

Where to begin when transforming your home

Francesca offers a simple piece of advice for anyone moving into a new property. “All your friends will want to see your new house. You should let them, on one condition: that they give you one honest thing about the house that bothers them and that they would change.”

The Grange, Burton Street, Marnhull, Dorset, DT10. Guide price £2,850,000

Her own journey with The Grange began with tackling the structural “blockages” that disrupted its flow. “Every room should flow naturally, like a stream, into the next.” In the main bedroom, she moved doors to create a greater sense of privacy. A large children’s bathroom became two separate spaces for added practicality, and the attic was reconfigured to accommodate two bedrooms and bathrooms. “I hadn’t anticipated doing all of that at first - I had mainly planned on renovating the master bathroom - but once I lived here, I could see which spaces were wrongly laid out.”

Finding creative inspiration for home interiors

Francesca’s tips for creating a welcoming atmosphere for the entertaining season 

Make a memorable first impression with flowers

“Ideally ones from your garden, or from a good florist. At Christmas, choose arrangements with rich seasonal colours and berries.”

Set the mood with lighting

“Every light switch should ideally be on a dimmer - it’s easy to do. Soft lighting and scented candles help create atmosphere, and rechargeable lamps are a versatile way to add cosy lighting.”

Think about guest comfort

“It’s the small details that make a stay enjoyable. Provide a bolster pillow so guests can comfortably read their phone or the newspaper. In the bathroom, ensure there’s a small table or shelf so they can unpack their toiletries.”

Keep the entrance tidy

“The hall creates the first impression, so make sure there’s space for guests’ coats and jackets, not just your own, and somewhere to store their boots or shoes out of the way.”

Never leave a table bare

“Whether it’s candles, flowers or decorative objects, no dining or kitchen table should be empty. The festive season is the perfect time to have fun with a striking centrepiece.”