The moment I stumbled upon images of interior designer Kit Kemp’s charming shepherd’s hut I just knew I had to share it with all of you. Tucked into a quiet corner of her garden in England, the storybook folly is the perfect little country escape. Kemp first spotted the hut in a local garden looking a bit worse of the wear and had it moved to her property. She hired local forester, John Harman, to add the thatched roof and enlisted British artist Melissa White to paint the walls and ceiling. The transformation is breathtaking. Can’t you picture yourself curled up that sofa with a novel on a quiet summer afternoon? Below, explore more of the magical English country retreat.
Molly Mahon’s hand blocked ‘Oak’ linen in Green Natural was used for the curtains.
The hut’s panelled walls are divided by a chair rail. Above is an imagined landscape with sailboats, rolling hills, and pear trees. Below are red cartouches filled with floral designs and jumping horses. The ceiling is painted with a stunning Lapis Lazuli star-filled sky.
British artist Melissa White stayed for a week to complete the painting. Kemp and White had poured over old American folk art for inspiration.
There is even a lovely hand-painted dog house for Kemp’s five Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. What lucky pups!
Another detail of the mural by Melissa White.
The green sofa is upholstered in Kemp’s ‘Friendly Folk’ fabric for Andrew Martin.
Kit Kemp’s darling Cavalier King Charles Spaniels pose on the shepherd hut’s front porch. Isn’t the green dutch door sweet?
The hut overlooks a small pond and the nearby silver birch trees provide shade. Idyllic to say the least! If you love Kit Kemp’s work as much as I do be sure to check out this post about one of my favorite London hotels and of course, her gorgeous books!
(images courtesy of Kit Kemp)
It’s lovely Katie,
A lot of thoughtful work has gone into the project.
I would be delighted if it were mine.
I love the carpet and the painted pictures, the thatched roof and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
It’s perfect !
Debbie in Australia.
Debbie – I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I’d be delighted if it were mine as well! Thanks so much for reading Katie Considers! xo