By Lynda Gardener + Ali Heath (Photography by Marnie Hawson)
On a cold, blustery weekend a few years ago now, I had the absolute delight of staying at one of Lynda Gardener’s seriously charming properties, The Estate,Trentham. It was a special weekend, celebrating another lap around the sun and staying at one of Lynda’s properties had been on my wishlist.
Sitting on the oversized linen sofa, layered with a cosy selection of cushions and wool blankets, soaking in the warmth of the crackling wood fire, I remember feeling so calm and at peace. We were surrounded by simple but beautiful things, carefully selected by someone who clearly had a special gift for curating special spaces.
And I do believe it is a gift. The ability to search for and source elements of beauty and interest. Pieces with a story, items that have seen better days but have more to give. Objects that pique curiosity. Collections and layers of “all the things”, old and new, drawn from many sources. And then to bring these together and arrange them in a particular way to create a unique aesthetic. There really is a whole lot of passion and know-how involved.
So the news that Lynda was publishing a book, alongside UK journalist and interior stylist, Ali Heath was so very exciting to hear! And that it would be titled Curate seemed just perfect.
Featuring profiles of Lynda’s properties and Ali’s home, the book also delves into the processes and elements behind creating individual spaces, such as: palette, storage, textiles and art. Not surprisingly, my favourite part was “The Art of Curating”, a handy list of things to consider as you create your own, individual spaces. I love that ‘prioritising sustainable choices’ makes it in there.
Curate is a beautiful publication. It’s not a book about interior trends, in fact the subtitle, “Inspiration For An Individual Home” is just as telling. Readers are encouraged to follow their own story. As Ali Heath states, “It is about unique, uncontrived spaces that reflect personal needs and life stories, and the slow curation of revered pieces….”. I must also mention the beautiful photography of Marnie Hawson, which really brings the pages alive. So much to love about this book.
Buy your copy of Curate here.