Dear Home Lover,

In this lifestyle in a letter we bring you an exclusive at home interview with Claire Appleton who talks about her fabulous home @making_a_home_ With a following of 44k Claire discusses about her renovation journey, projects, interior style and the no go's.

We hope you enjoy!

1) Claire tell us all about your fabulous home, where about's is it and what made you choose it?

Hello, I’m Claire and mum of 3 and we live in a 4 bed detached 1920 house built for the mill owners Daughter. It’s in a semi rural village on the outskirts of The Yorkshire dales.

2) We understand that your home was a renovation project can you give us a bit more detail and insight into what your plans were from start to finish when first seeing the house?

When we looked around the house we thought it was in need of a cosmetic update but looked pretty sound. We soon found out that actually it was in need of a little more than TLC. We’ve tried to retain as much character where possible but soon realised there really wasn’t much left other than the ceilings, a lot of the woodwork has been changed too. 

Upon viewing the house, the only thing I couldn’t get clear in my head was the awkward layout of downstairs. With its small kitchen with tiny breakfast area, the wasted space in the hallway which less to the 2 main reception rooms. I knew we needed to live in this space to see how we used it best. Going forward I’d love to build an extension to house the kitchen and make the old kitchen into a dining room with the breakfast area breakfast area becoming the utility room. If we can’t budget for this, we’ll adapt the kitchen in a better way taking down the arch between the kitchen and breakfast area.

3) What would you say is your interior design style and do you have any inspiration for that?

My design go to is usually earthy neutrals. I love adding texture to the walls usually in the form of panelling, as this instantly creates character and definition in a room. I try and buy second hand where possible using FBMP (Facebook market place), charity shops and car boots, Also buy what you love and not what it in fashion.

4) What is your interior design no, go's?

My designers nos, which I’ve learnt over the years. Do not rush into buying furniture or other items until you’ve lived in the space. You’ll likely replace quickly (I’ve done this far too many times and it’s definitely my worst habit)

5) If you could give a first-time buyer 1 piece of advice regarding being a homeowner, what would it be?

My advice to first time buyers, Don’t rush your decisions, if you’re renovating, expect you’ll change your mind and that’s okay. As sometimes the best laid plans can be thrown by surprises that a house throws in. We once found a secret room in an attic.

Don't forget to follow and find out more all about Claire and her fabulous home @making_a_home_ 

(Image Credit: @making_a_home_ Instagram