Lake District Project | HM x Katharine Pooley

In the heart of the Lake District lies the sleepy village of Elterwater, situated at the foot of the Great and Little Langdale valleys and beside its namesake; Lake Elter Water (The Lake of the Swans). The village is flanked by bracken-clad heathland and nestled against the magnificent backdrop of the Langdale Pikes. The serenity of the landscape is relatively recent; these dramatic mountains were once the site of gunpowder mines and slate quarries in use from the Napoleonic Wars until the early 20^th century.

Peace is now the order of the day and with its slow pace and picturesque topography Elterwater is a much-loved destination for walking holidays. The area’s famous slate is still very much in evidence in the fabric of the remaining original quarryman cottages (Beatrix Potter-esq with quirky chimney posts and sweet dormer windows).

Over the past two years, Katharine Pooley and her team have undertaken a painstaking restoration project of one of these original quarryman cottages which has proven to be a true labour of love. Every detail and finish was chosen to be sympathetic to the building’s original fabric and location, whilst updating it to suit modern family living.

The craftsmanship of local labourers, stonemasons, garden designers and artisans was central to Katharine’s original vision for the cottage and she chose favourite British suppliers and creatives for the furnishings including soft toned rugs from Sinclair Till and furniture pieces from Soane London. Numerous bespoke furniture makers punctuate the space with fabrics specified from Colefax and Fowler, Holland & Sherry, Pierre Frey and C&C Milano to create a layered and cosy feel.

The renovation required every nook and cranny to be utilised to maximise functionality and provide storage. On the ground floor there is a beautiful kitchen and a utility/boot room by Humphrey Munson, ensuring all practical needs are met.

KITCHEN DESIGN DETAILS

Cabinetry Design: Nickleby Cabinetry Interiors: Smithfield weathered oak Paint finish: Mainsail Hardware: Weathered brass bespoke Worktops: CRL Verona

The Kitchen opens into an open-plan living and dining room with a feature fireplace and wood burning stove creating the perfect cosy atmosphere on cooler evenings. As well as the kitchen, we also designed, manufactured and installed the utility / boot room – an essential in an area famous for walking holidays.

UTILITY / BOOT ROOM DESIGN DETAILS

Cabinetry Design: Nickleby Cabinetry Interiors: Smithfield weathered oak Paint finish: Windward Hardware: Weathered brass bespoke Worktops: CRL Verona

Little Nut Cottage is the prettiest of country boltholes, and the best bit is you can stay and experience this exquisitely designed home first hand. Take a look here at the rest of the cottage and for information on how to book click here.

Images: kindly supplied by Katharine Pooley Ltd.