THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING STYLED

Bellamont Forest, a beautiful 18th century Palladian villa in County Cavan, Ireland.

One drawing room, three different stages of styling. Designed originally by Edward Lovett Pearce in the late 1720's, the room is blessed with grand proportions and fine original features. Fast forward almost 3 centuries,  the late John Coote lovingly restores it, banning chintz and picking the most perfectly balanced persimmon pink. His choices in styling the room, however, really bring it to life. From the blue check linen on the chairs to the 19th century rug, from the contemporary art to a sprouting leafy branch instead of flowers. His styling is bold and unconventional, yet never shouty or out of place. His bravery and balance show how it takes more than fine room to create something special.