Since purchasing her charming listed property in Durham nearly a decade ago, Cat Kenna-Dawe has carefully balanced the preservation of its period features while adding a fresh, modern twist inside and out.
The result is a warm and welcoming home that reflects her love of mid-century influences and her passion for creating a homely, yet sophisticated, sanctuary.
The owner
Catherine Kenna-Dawe – also known as Cat – lives with her husband Tony, daughter Ella and two golden retrievers Bailey and Bello. She has a background in administration and hairdressing, having worked as a stylist for Tony & Guy in London, Newcastle and Durham. She started her Instagram account – devoted to all things home styling and interiors, lifestyle and fashion – in January 2017 and has since gained nearly 77,000 followers.
The property
Cat and her husband bought their three-bedroom, Grade II listed period home in the village of Brancepeth, County Durham, in 2016.
What drew you to the property?
We had wanted to move and live in the countryside for quite some time and after a walk through the village one day it was fate that we got talking to a lovely couple passing by, who were putting their beautiful three-bedroom period home on the market. They invited us over straight away to have a look around and I just knew as soon as I stepped through the front door this was the one. It had everything I had dreamed of – period features, an open fireplace, old beams, a cottage walled garden, fish tail tiles on the roof and, most importantly, a distinctive homely feel.
Take us through the renovation journey…
The house had a lovely feel and decorated very fatefully when we moved in, however we really wanted to put our own stamp on it. The vision was to keep the period feel, but add a modern twist. As the house is listed, we can’t knock down walls, change windows or replace the original features, but we did indeed transform all of the cosmetic work. We incorporated new paint colours, added shutters, stripped the original flooring and added new lighting. We also cleaned the old beams and made lots of discoveries along the way, including old coins, old suitcases and a secret passage under the living room floor underground. We did try to replace the windows, which was a challenge, however we soon discovered that they’re actually old metal windows which can’t be replaced due to the building’s listing. That said, they are really beautiful against the old stone mullion windows, even though one doesn’t open!
Are the results what you hoped for?
I love people visiting my home. I want them to feel relaxed, welcome and at ease – and I think we’ve definitely achieved that cosy, homely feel. My style has evolved over time and now I love nothing more than celebrating my home’s period features, but with a mid-century modern spin, and that’s what you’ll see today. I love the rustic sunroom and, outside, the walled garden is a patio haven, surrounded by stunning David Austin roses and greenery. The woodwork pointing throughout the building is a small, but lovely, feature.
When it came to decorating and styling, what inspired you?
I love adding texture and colour – be it through cushions, throws and other textiles – against a neutral palette to elevate a space. I get asked quite a lot about my paint choices. For those wanting to know, my living area is painted in Farrow & Ball Strong White and the stone fireplace is painted in Farrow & Ball Purbeck Stone. The bay window wall, including the original panelling, is drenched in Farrow & Ball Roasted Macadamia. I’m inspired by interior brands like Soho home and Oka, with whom I’ve been lucky enough to collaborate on a number of occasions. I have many of their beautiful pieces, including their Gustaf side unit and their chairs, which are in my living room. Our velvety brass footstool is from Arlo & Jacob, our brass lamp is from Pooky Lights and our rug is a really good find from Zara Home.
My top styling tips
Don’t be afraid to add pattern, colour and texture to elevate a space.
Add character with rugs, throws and lamps.
Incorporate large mirrors to open up your room – especially small ones.
Don’t be afraid to colour drench – it can add so much personality.
Add layers to create a feeling of comfort and depth.
Don’t underestimate the power of lighting – it can transform a room.
Be true to your own style – this is your home!
For updates, follow Cat on Instagram at @ivy_cottage_country_living_
