I’ve done what I needed to with the decorating for now. The space feels settled enough, even if it’s not finished. There are still things I might come back to—soft touches, lighting, maybe a few seasonal changes—but I’m happy to pause here. Studio Decorating: What’s Done What Can Wait I’m shifting focus to other things… Read More a pause in decorating
There’s a particular kind of charm in noticing what doesn’t quite match. In my cottage, the skirting boards tell their own story—three of them in quiet agreement, and one that’s decided to go its own way. The wall with the wallpaper (post-four readers) hosts a skirting board of a different species entirely. Taller, with a… Read More post five: skirting the norm-a tale of nails & mismatched boards
This cottage doesn’t always make sense. The wallpaper doesn’t quite meet the ceiling. The cabinet doors don’t fully align. The paint peels below the window, and the light fitting still hangs unfinished—wires exposed—waiting, like a sentence left unfinished. They’re part of the rhythm I live with and they remind me that comfort isn’t about control—it’s… Read More post four: the quirks of the cottage
Before and after images rebuilding with filler Living with a fluctuating neurological condition and navigating neurodivergence means that decorating isn’t a straightforward task. It’s a layered process shaped by sensory thresholds and emotional pacing. I don’t decorate quickly. I decorate slowly, with care and consideration, because it’s important to me. The process isn’t just physical—it’s… Read More post three: decorating as emotional labour
One wall painted with help, one still waiting. These images show the pace I’m working at—and the care I’m trying to hold. Painting the main wall with my daughter was difficult. The smell of paint, the texture, and the physical effort were uncomfortable for me—but having her there made it easier. It was a moment… Read More post two: decorating when it’s hard
Rachel Bakewell 