Have you ever wondered what defines a British interior, or what the visual characteristics of British style are? This is a story shaped by history; trade, monarchy, empire, craftsmanship and industry. The wingback chair has a reason, the chintz, a backstory. Once you start tracing the threads back through history, you realise that British style isn’t just decorative, it’s built on centuries of influence.

To me, dogs are the heart of a British interior. Whether curled up by the fire or stretched out on a sofa, they epitomize the country house experience. So when I first came across Obi, it felt like one of those meant-to-be moments

With a thoughtful approach, British heritage style can feel both rooted in history and entirely appropriate for contemporary living — and the New Year offers the ideal opportunity to pause, reassess and redecorate your home. Here are ten guiding principles to help you get there.

Country houses affect me in different ways and vary greatly from house to house, some are stern and powerful, others grand and fanciful, but I would say the overriding feeling when visiting Stanway was one of astonishment. Astonishment that human hands could shape something so pleasing, and so very beautiful.