Inspiration
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Beautiful Britain November 1984
"OH GOD BEN" said my friend Ruth, this morning, at breakfast, "YOU'VE GONE AND TAKEN A CALENDAR PHOTO". It's true. It was a ridiculously beautiful morning in Dorset and I...
Beautiful Britain November 1984
"OH GOD BEN" said my friend Ruth, this morning, at breakfast, "YOU'VE GONE AND TAKEN A CALENDAR PHOTO". It's true. It was a ridiculously beautiful morning in Dorset and I...
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Goodbye, cluster, goodbye empty frames with vin...
It's a strange world isn't it. You would expect, on a glorious sunny day in London, as it was today, that I would be writing this evening about what a...
Goodbye, cluster, goodbye empty frames with vin...
It's a strange world isn't it. You would expect, on a glorious sunny day in London, as it was today, that I would be writing this evening about what a...
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Our Spitalfields Life
Opens this evening - please come! This evening at the shop, we are expecting a crowd! And if you can't make it, be sure to visit the Spitalfields online shop...
Our Spitalfields Life
Opens this evening - please come! This evening at the shop, we are expecting a crowd! And if you can't make it, be sure to visit the Spitalfields online shop...
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Absolutely nothing happened
It was a few years ago, in Charleston, South Carolina, that I found a little metal plaque on the side of an old Georgian brick building that read 'on this...
Absolutely nothing happened
It was a few years ago, in Charleston, South Carolina, that I found a little metal plaque on the side of an old Georgian brick building that read 'on this...
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My Spitalfields Life
So I won't quite say that I lost my virginity in Spitalfields, because that wouldn't quite be true, but it was certainly the first time I had real fun. That would...
My Spitalfields Life
So I won't quite say that I lost my virginity in Spitalfields, because that wouldn't quite be true, but it was certainly the first time I had real fun. That would...
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Welcome to the centre of the universe
"It's all very well coming from the capital", said the taxi driver this morning, "but what does it feel like being in the centre of the Universe?" The post Welcome...
Welcome to the centre of the universe
"It's all very well coming from the capital", said the taxi driver this morning, "but what does it feel like being in the centre of the Universe?" The post Welcome...
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Fleeting moments
I arrived down in Dorset yesterday and had my friend Mary over for a great lunch and a long chat. But after she left, for a walk down the valley...
Fleeting moments
I arrived down in Dorset yesterday and had my friend Mary over for a great lunch and a long chat. But after she left, for a walk down the valley...
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A Statement of Intent
I don't often write about architecture on this blog, or what we do in the office, but I thought you might be interested this exchange. And you might have noticed...
A Statement of Intent
I don't often write about architecture on this blog, or what we do in the office, but I thought you might be interested this exchange. And you might have noticed...
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Indian Summer days
Don't you love these days as late summer slips into early Autumn; not quite frosts, yet, but heavy, wet dews and misty mornings and then burning hot afternoons? My good...
Indian Summer days
Don't you love these days as late summer slips into early Autumn; not quite frosts, yet, but heavy, wet dews and misty mornings and then burning hot afternoons? My good...
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The best things in life don’t change
Sharp eyed readers will be able to play spot the difference in this post. And be grateful that there isn't any! I know that somewhere deep in this blog you...
The best things in life don’t change
Sharp eyed readers will be able to play spot the difference in this post. And be grateful that there isn't any! I know that somewhere deep in this blog you...
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Dahlia Time…
Regular readers of this post will know I've got a bit of a thing about dahlias, which you can read here, or here or indeed here (that was a nice trip down...
Dahlia Time…
Regular readers of this post will know I've got a bit of a thing about dahlias, which you can read here, or here or indeed here (that was a nice trip down...
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A bit about the book
It's a funny process writing a book. I can't even remember how long ago it was that my friend Alison, then an editor at Ryland Peters & Small (and where...
A bit about the book
It's a funny process writing a book. I can't even remember how long ago it was that my friend Alison, then an editor at Ryland Peters & Small (and where...
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Getting lost in Siena…
After my previous post, you might have thought I had an ulterior motive for getting lost in Siena. But no, this time, I am afraid, the visit was all about...
Getting lost in Siena…
After my previous post, you might have thought I had an ulterior motive for getting lost in Siena. But no, this time, I am afraid, the visit was all about...
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Quiet days in Chianti
There is something amazingly relaxing about going on holiday to the same place every year. I'm not quite sure what it is. I suppose that because you can anticipate, with...
Quiet days in Chianti
There is something amazingly relaxing about going on holiday to the same place every year. I'm not quite sure what it is. I suppose that because you can anticipate, with...
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It’s hotter in Siena
I've heard there's bit of a heatwave in London this weekend... but I can't help feeling it might have been hotter in Siena. We arrived on Thursday afternoon for the...
It’s hotter in Siena
I've heard there's bit of a heatwave in London this weekend... but I can't help feeling it might have been hotter in Siena. We arrived on Thursday afternoon for the...
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If the map fits, hang it…
Well, a lot of comments on the previous post seem to be to do with my map of London... I can sort of understand why! I can't quite remember when...
If the map fits, hang it…
Well, a lot of comments on the previous post seem to be to do with my map of London... I can sort of understand why! I can't quite remember when...
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Moving pictures
Well, apologies for such brief postings; I can at last download photos again! And in the middle of Olympic-silent London, this weekend, I have moved. It was a fun if...
Moving pictures
Well, apologies for such brief postings; I can at last download photos again! And in the middle of Olympic-silent London, this weekend, I have moved. It was a fun if...
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Sitting Down Sports
I will blog a bit more about the week's doings (for instance I'm about to move the first bits and pieces into my new flat...) when I've fixed my camera....
Sitting Down Sports
I will blog a bit more about the week's doings (for instance I'm about to move the first bits and pieces into my new flat...) when I've fixed my camera....
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The Walled Garden
Is there anything more beautiful in the world than a walled garden? The answer we all know to be no. There is something so contained, so benign, about a walled...
The Walled Garden
Is there anything more beautiful in the world than a walled garden? The answer we all know to be no. There is something so contained, so benign, about a walled...
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And to Rousham…
A couple of weeks ago, to Garsington; and yesterday, to another dream Oxfordshire garden, Rousham. I am sure this needs no introduction to most readers, and in a sense I...
And to Rousham…
A couple of weeks ago, to Garsington; and yesterday, to another dream Oxfordshire garden, Rousham. I am sure this needs no introduction to most readers, and in a sense I...
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House and Garden in the early 60s
One of my obsessions? House and Garden Magazine in the 1960s. This is probably not the time to start rehearsing in detail the brilliance of the magazine's fantastic editor, Robert...
House and Garden in the early 60s
One of my obsessions? House and Garden Magazine in the 1960s. This is probably not the time to start rehearsing in detail the brilliance of the magazine's fantastic editor, Robert...
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Apres moi, le deluge…
...or in the case of the Bride Valley this weekend, après le deluge, le soleil. A massive rainstorm swept through the valley yesterday; water poured off the hills, the River...
Apres moi, le deluge…
...or in the case of the Bride Valley this weekend, après le deluge, le soleil. A massive rainstorm swept through the valley yesterday; water poured off the hills, the River...
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To Garsington
And then, from the Isle of Wight, I caught the train to Oxford, where I was met by Will and Alexa, and we drove to my friend Catherine's house at...
To Garsington
And then, from the Isle of Wight, I caught the train to Oxford, where I was met by Will and Alexa, and we drove to my friend Catherine's house at...
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Messing about with boats
I think a very large part of my childhood was spent on the water. I guess that's what comes from having a dad in the Navy. Every year our summer...
Messing about with boats
I think a very large part of my childhood was spent on the water. I guess that's what comes from having a dad in the Navy. Every year our summer...
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Waterloo Sunset
It was a beautiful evening in London last night. The light was amazing (and it is a beautiful morning as well). I felt the need to get out and enjoy...
Waterloo Sunset
It was a beautiful evening in London last night. The light was amazing (and it is a beautiful morning as well). I felt the need to get out and enjoy...
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Making progress
My new flat has caused quite a bit of comment on the previous post; I am grateful for your thoughts and gratified by the interest! It's taking shape and here...
Making progress
My new flat has caused quite a bit of comment on the previous post; I am grateful for your thoughts and gratified by the interest! It's taking shape and here...
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A blank canvas
But really what is on my mind at the moment is this. I am moving flat. Not very far; about 2 minutes up the road, to Queen Square... which will...
A blank canvas
But really what is on my mind at the moment is this. I am moving flat. Not very far; about 2 minutes up the road, to Queen Square... which will...
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Flaming June
Do you ever have the feeling you're in the wrong place? I had made a vague plan to be in London for the weekend, but waking incredibly early on Saturday...
Flaming June
Do you ever have the feeling you're in the wrong place? I had made a vague plan to be in London for the weekend, but waking incredibly early on Saturday...
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Drenched…
I hope you didn't get too drenched on your way to work this morning. London is soaking. For those of our readers overseas, I know we have a reputation for...
Drenched…
I hope you didn't get too drenched on your way to work this morning. London is soaking. For those of our readers overseas, I know we have a reputation for...
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Evening Mist
Some photographs of the garden on a misty evening over at the fabulous new Gardenista website... brought to you by our friends at Remodelista. The post Evening Mist appeared first...
Evening Mist
Some photographs of the garden on a misty evening over at the fabulous new Gardenista website... brought to you by our friends at Remodelista. The post Evening Mist appeared first...
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Jubilee Village!
It's pouring with rain, the valley is drenched, and we're all exhausted. But it's that happy sort of exhaustion that comes from knowing that you've just put on the best...
Jubilee Village!
It's pouring with rain, the valley is drenched, and we're all exhausted. But it's that happy sort of exhaustion that comes from knowing that you've just put on the best...
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Jubilee Hall
What is that splash of vivid red I spied out of my bedroom window when I woke up early this morning? Hmm. I was not particularly thrilled that the black...
Jubilee Hall
What is that splash of vivid red I spied out of my bedroom window when I woke up early this morning? Hmm. I was not particularly thrilled that the black...
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May evenings
Don't you love this time of year? And when summer finally arrived—with a brilliantly hot, sparkling week—the garden, like the countryside, burst into life. I've been missing Dorset so much...
May evenings
Don't you love this time of year? And when summer finally arrived—with a brilliantly hot, sparkling week—the garden, like the countryside, burst into life. I've been missing Dorset so much...
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It’s all in the details…
We know this to be true, don't we? The smallest details matter. This is as true of one of our architecture projects: the architrave around a door, or the design...
It’s all in the details…
We know this to be true, don't we? The smallest details matter. This is as true of one of our architecture projects: the architrave around a door, or the design...
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Weird…
Just when you think you've seen enough weirdness to last a lifetime, Moscow would get weirder. Ruth, from the office, and I, went for a 36 hour trip to meet...
Weird…
Just when you think you've seen enough weirdness to last a lifetime, Moscow would get weirder. Ruth, from the office, and I, went for a 36 hour trip to meet...
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Keeping up to date…
"But you enjoy blogging" a friend said to me this evening. "Well I do, but it's hard to keep up when there's so much to blog about, and no time...
Keeping up to date…
"But you enjoy blogging" a friend said to me this evening. "Well I do, but it's hard to keep up when there's so much to blog about, and no time...
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Behind the Scenes at the Theatre…
We're getting very excited about the exhibition of new works by Ed Kluz next week! Ed has kindly sent me a few photographs showing him at work in the Studio...
Behind the Scenes at the Theatre…
We're getting very excited about the exhibition of new works by Ed Kluz next week! Ed has kindly sent me a few photographs showing him at work in the Studio...
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Lakeland meanderings
I am sitting writing this at the end of a fantastic day at the end of a fantastic week in the perfect lakes: an area that I have longed to...
Lakeland meanderings
I am sitting writing this at the end of a fantastic day at the end of a fantastic week in the perfect lakes: an area that I have longed to...
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Any colour so long as it’s black?
In case you hadn't noticed, I've got a bit of a thing for black tulips. Queen of the Night, Black Parrot, Black Hero. Well, to be honest, for all tulips...
Any colour so long as it’s black?
In case you hadn't noticed, I've got a bit of a thing for black tulips. Queen of the Night, Black Parrot, Black Hero. Well, to be honest, for all tulips...
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Jubilee Jollies from Ben and Bridie
Over here at Ben P towers, we're obviously great supporters of The Royal Family in all their glory, as you will have learned from previous posts: Prince Philip chic, anyone?...
Jubilee Jollies from Ben and Bridie
Over here at Ben P towers, we're obviously great supporters of The Royal Family in all their glory, as you will have learned from previous posts: Prince Philip chic, anyone?...
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Easter garden
The garden's gone a bit bonkers in my absence in Scotland last weekend. I'm not sure if it is super-happy-exuberant or bordering on municipal authority flowerbed, but the tulips are...
Easter garden
The garden's gone a bit bonkers in my absence in Scotland last weekend. I'm not sure if it is super-happy-exuberant or bordering on municipal authority flowerbed, but the tulips are...
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Dreaming of Italy
I don't know what it is about Easter time and the fact that I'm sitting in my kitchen in Dorset FREEZING. What happened to the balmy spring? Hello?!? The post...
Dreaming of Italy
I don't know what it is about Easter time and the fact that I'm sitting in my kitchen in Dorset FREEZING. What happened to the balmy spring? Hello?!? The post...
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Timewashed in Scotland
I got back from Inverness on Monday night, after a fantastic, head-spinning day picking paint colours and making plans for the huge, romantic castle that I am beginning to help...
Timewashed in Scotland
I got back from Inverness on Monday night, after a fantastic, head-spinning day picking paint colours and making plans for the huge, romantic castle that I am beginning to help...
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The Selby wants to be in your place…
Do you follow one of my favourite websites, The Selby is in your Place? I'm sure you already do, but if you don't, have a little browse. The post The...
The Selby wants to be in your place…
Do you follow one of my favourite websites, The Selby is in your Place? I'm sure you already do, but if you don't, have a little browse. The post The...
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A tale of two lives
One of the things which makes me happiest, I think, is being able to combine life in the country and in London. From time to time I get worried about...
A tale of two lives
One of the things which makes me happiest, I think, is being able to combine life in the country and in London. From time to time I get worried about...
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Spring stirring
It's been a busy two days in the office and I haven't had time to post a few photographs since getting back from Dorset. It was a sparkling happy weekend...
Spring stirring
It's been a busy two days in the office and I haven't had time to post a few photographs since getting back from Dorset. It was a sparkling happy weekend...
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Changing colours…
What's one of the most inspiring things you can do? Change your colours. As many of you know, we recently did a bit of a revamp in the shop, which...
Changing colours…
What's one of the most inspiring things you can do? Change your colours. As many of you know, we recently did a bit of a revamp in the shop, which...
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London my beautiful city (2)
A little while ago, back last autumn, I took a walk across London on a sparkling October day. I called that post London, beautiful city. A moment when I, for...
London my beautiful city (2)
A little while ago, back last autumn, I took a walk across London on a sparkling October day. I called that post London, beautiful city. A moment when I, for...
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Worth the wait…
I've been in Scotland, back up in the Moray Firth for a few very happy days working on our architectural project there - shaping the early development of a new...
Worth the wait…
I've been in Scotland, back up in the Moray Firth for a few very happy days working on our architectural project there - shaping the early development of a new...
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We hope you like…
Our new look home page. The website elves (well, specifically, our brilliant web designer Joe Smalley) have been hard at work making a few tweaks which hopefully will make it...
We hope you like…
Our new look home page. The website elves (well, specifically, our brilliant web designer Joe Smalley) have been hard at work making a few tweaks which hopefully will make it...
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Valley and Sea
It was the sort of day in Dorset that you dream of. We woke to clear, brilliant sunshine and after breakfast went down to the sea, for a walk on...
Valley and Sea
It was the sort of day in Dorset that you dream of. We woke to clear, brilliant sunshine and after breakfast went down to the sea, for a walk on...
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Visual treats
A tiny bunch of flowers for the Sunday lunch table; will you look at how beautiful the crocus and snowdrops are? But what I really wanted to write about this...
Visual treats
A tiny bunch of flowers for the Sunday lunch table; will you look at how beautiful the crocus and snowdrops are? But what I really wanted to write about this...
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Dorset, the beautiful
It was a beautiful weekend in Dorset. It feels like a little while since I've been at the Old Parsonage, and towards the end of last week we were getting...
Dorset, the beautiful
It was a beautiful weekend in Dorset. It feels like a little while since I've been at the Old Parsonage, and towards the end of last week we were getting...
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David and Celia
What's on your coffee table right now? A few weeks ago my friend Will produced a ticket to the Hockney exhibition. It was interesting to see (noting, I have to...
David and Celia
What's on your coffee table right now? A few weeks ago my friend Will produced a ticket to the Hockney exhibition. It was interesting to see (noting, I have to...
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Quiet days
Don't you love quiet weekends in London? If you are anything like me you anticipated the snowfall last night with a little hint of childlike excitement. Is it, perhaps, the...
Quiet days
Don't you love quiet weekends in London? If you are anything like me you anticipated the snowfall last night with a little hint of childlike excitement. Is it, perhaps, the...
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Down Time
"A few people are worried you're working too hard" said the text message from my friend Ben. Hmmmm, I thought. Okay. They have a point. Except that if you're quite...
Down Time
"A few people are worried you're working too hard" said the text message from my friend Ben. Hmmmm, I thought. Okay. They have a point. Except that if you're quite...
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A tight fit
One of the advantages of living in the tiniest flat in London is that you don't have to go very far for things. I tumble out of bed early and...
A tight fit
One of the advantages of living in the tiniest flat in London is that you don't have to go very far for things. I tumble out of bed early and...
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Recording Britain
I've been travelling a little this week—two days in Scotland, on the Moray Firth, at the fantastic project we're about to get going on up there. As we were driving...
Recording Britain
I've been travelling a little this week—two days in Scotland, on the Moray Firth, at the fantastic project we're about to get going on up there. As we were driving...
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Getting ahead again
I heard on the radio yesterday morning that unless we have some serious rainfall, a drought is to be declared within weeks. You see? It doesn't rain nearly as much...
Getting ahead again
I heard on the radio yesterday morning that unless we have some serious rainfall, a drought is to be declared within weeks. You see? It doesn't rain nearly as much...
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Getting ahead…
I was going to be helping Robin in the shop this weekend. We've been taking it all apart and putting everything back - repainting, fresh carpet, and a good New...
Getting ahead…
I was going to be helping Robin in the shop this weekend. We've been taking it all apart and putting everything back - repainting, fresh carpet, and a good New...
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Green Shoots stirring
I'm not a great one for New Year's resolutions. But I would like to start this New Year with a story. The post Green Shoots stirring appeared first on Ben...
Green Shoots stirring
I'm not a great one for New Year's resolutions. But I would like to start this New Year with a story. The post Green Shoots stirring appeared first on Ben...
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Christmas Alphabet, Christmas Quiz
It's been a beautiful day in Dorset. We went for drives in the Morris 1000. The sun is now setting along the valley. Maggie, Roland, Will and I have just...
Christmas Alphabet, Christmas Quiz
It's been a beautiful day in Dorset. We went for drives in the Morris 1000. The sun is now setting along the valley. Maggie, Roland, Will and I have just...
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Winter sunset
An extraordinary sky this evening, as drenching rain and storms cleared just at the close of the day. Then it was time for cake and mince pies by the fire...
Winter sunset
An extraordinary sky this evening, as drenching rain and storms cleared just at the close of the day. Then it was time for cake and mince pies by the fire...
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E is for Emily Sutton
If you follow me on Twitter (and if you don't, which I would entirely understand, but might like to, you can here) you will have noticed that I've been particularly...
E is for Emily Sutton
If you follow me on Twitter (and if you don't, which I would entirely understand, but might like to, you can here) you will have noticed that I've been particularly...
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I don’t know about you…
But I've been baking. All those flipping "GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS NOW" Blogs to live up to. Yikes. How do they do it? Hang on... how do I do it?...
I don’t know about you…
But I've been baking. All those flipping "GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS NOW" Blogs to live up to. Yikes. How do they do it? Hang on... how do I do it?...
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What to Look for in Winter
Earlier this morning, I was having a bit of a clean up. And came across this little book... Immediately I was propelled back 30 years or more. When I was...
What to Look for in Winter
Earlier this morning, I was having a bit of a clean up. And came across this little book... Immediately I was propelled back 30 years or more. When I was...
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Christmas Rose
I arrived in Dorset last night, late. I'm glad to say the AGA man had at last done what he needed to do, just in time for winter. The house...
Christmas Rose
I arrived in Dorset last night, late. I'm glad to say the AGA man had at last done what he needed to do, just in time for winter. The house...
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By the fire with the FT
You can read my little blog for everyone's favourite newspaper here. Happy weekend... The post By the fire with the FT appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
By the fire with the FT
You can read my little blog for everyone's favourite newspaper here. Happy weekend... The post By the fire with the FT appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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Christmas Windows
What a fun night last night! All the shops were open for a bustling evening. Wine flowed and mince pies were consumed and it was great to say hello to...
Christmas Windows
What a fun night last night! All the shops were open for a bustling evening. Wine flowed and mince pies were consumed and it was great to say hello to...
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Happy Christmas with love from the Street!
On Thursday 8th December, Lambs Conduit and Rugby Streets are hosting our very own Happy Christmas Street Party -where all the stores will be staying open late, offering seasonal goodies...
Happy Christmas with love from the Street!
On Thursday 8th December, Lambs Conduit and Rugby Streets are hosting our very own Happy Christmas Street Party -where all the stores will be staying open late, offering seasonal goodies...
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Crackers about Crackers…
So, what is tomorrow? The post Crackers about Crackers… appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
Crackers about Crackers…
So, what is tomorrow? The post Crackers about Crackers… appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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Happy Birthday… to me
Um, so I promised that we would get organised, and we did. My great friend Simon who takes all the brilliant photos for our shop very kindly snapped a few...
Happy Birthday… to me
Um, so I promised that we would get organised, and we did. My great friend Simon who takes all the brilliant photos for our shop very kindly snapped a few...
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Blessed are the Printmakers
You may remember that last year I wrote about the Whittington Press. Yesterday afternoon I have spent the day with a remarkable new book that John and Rose Randle have...
Blessed are the Printmakers
You may remember that last year I wrote about the Whittington Press. Yesterday afternoon I have spent the day with a remarkable new book that John and Rose Randle have...
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Aftermath…
Just in case you were wondering what the kitchen looked like this morning... after a great great night for my 40th birthday party yesterday evening. The post Aftermath… appeared first...
Aftermath…
Just in case you were wondering what the kitchen looked like this morning... after a great great night for my 40th birthday party yesterday evening. The post Aftermath… appeared first...
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Beautiful Britain November 1984
Ben"OH GOD BEN" said my friend Ruth, this morning, at breakfast, "YOU'VE GONE AND TAKEN A CALENDAR PHOTO". It's true. It was a ridiculously beautiful morning in Dorset and I...
Beautiful Britain November 1984
by Ben Pentreath"OH GOD BEN" said my friend Ruth, this morning, at breakfast, "YOU'VE GONE AND TAKEN A CALENDAR PHOTO". It's true. It was a ridiculously beautiful morning in Dorset and I...
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Goodbye, cluster, goodbye empty frames with vin...
BenIt's a strange world isn't it. You would expect, on a glorious sunny day in London, as it was today, that I would be writing this evening about what a...
Goodbye, cluster, goodbye empty frames with vin...
by Ben PentreathIt's a strange world isn't it. You would expect, on a glorious sunny day in London, as it was today, that I would be writing this evening about what a...
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Our Spitalfields Life
BenOpens this evening - please come! This evening at the shop, we are expecting a crowd! And if you can't make it, be sure to visit the Spitalfields online shop...
Our Spitalfields Life
by Ben PentreathOpens this evening - please come! This evening at the shop, we are expecting a crowd! And if you can't make it, be sure to visit the Spitalfields online shop...
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Absolutely nothing happened
BenIt was a few years ago, in Charleston, South Carolina, that I found a little metal plaque on the side of an old Georgian brick building that read 'on this...
Absolutely nothing happened
by Ben PentreathIt was a few years ago, in Charleston, South Carolina, that I found a little metal plaque on the side of an old Georgian brick building that read 'on this...
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My Spitalfields Life
BenSo I won't quite say that I lost my virginity in Spitalfields, because that wouldn't quite be true, but it was certainly the first time I had real fun. That would...
My Spitalfields Life
by Ben PentreathSo I won't quite say that I lost my virginity in Spitalfields, because that wouldn't quite be true, but it was certainly the first time I had real fun. That would...
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Welcome to the centre of the universe
Ben"It's all very well coming from the capital", said the taxi driver this morning, "but what does it feel like being in the centre of the Universe?" The post Welcome...
Welcome to the centre of the universe
by Ben Pentreath"It's all very well coming from the capital", said the taxi driver this morning, "but what does it feel like being in the centre of the Universe?" The post Welcome...
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Fleeting moments
BenI arrived down in Dorset yesterday and had my friend Mary over for a great lunch and a long chat. But after she left, for a walk down the valley...
Fleeting moments
by Ben PentreathI arrived down in Dorset yesterday and had my friend Mary over for a great lunch and a long chat. But after she left, for a walk down the valley...
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A Statement of Intent
BenI don't often write about architecture on this blog, or what we do in the office, but I thought you might be interested this exchange. And you might have noticed...
A Statement of Intent
by Ben PentreathI don't often write about architecture on this blog, or what we do in the office, but I thought you might be interested this exchange. And you might have noticed...
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Indian Summer days
BenDon't you love these days as late summer slips into early Autumn; not quite frosts, yet, but heavy, wet dews and misty mornings and then burning hot afternoons? My good...
Indian Summer days
by Ben PentreathDon't you love these days as late summer slips into early Autumn; not quite frosts, yet, but heavy, wet dews and misty mornings and then burning hot afternoons? My good...
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The best things in life don’t change
BenSharp eyed readers will be able to play spot the difference in this post. And be grateful that there isn't any! I know that somewhere deep in this blog you...
The best things in life don’t change
by Ben PentreathSharp eyed readers will be able to play spot the difference in this post. And be grateful that there isn't any! I know that somewhere deep in this blog you...
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Dahlia Time…
BenRegular readers of this post will know I've got a bit of a thing about dahlias, which you can read here, or here or indeed here (that was a nice trip down...
Dahlia Time…
by Ben PentreathRegular readers of this post will know I've got a bit of a thing about dahlias, which you can read here, or here or indeed here (that was a nice trip down...
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A bit about the book
BenIt's a funny process writing a book. I can't even remember how long ago it was that my friend Alison, then an editor at Ryland Peters & Small (and where...
A bit about the book
by Ben PentreathIt's a funny process writing a book. I can't even remember how long ago it was that my friend Alison, then an editor at Ryland Peters & Small (and where...
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Getting lost in Siena…
BenAfter my previous post, you might have thought I had an ulterior motive for getting lost in Siena. But no, this time, I am afraid, the visit was all about...
Getting lost in Siena…
by Ben PentreathAfter my previous post, you might have thought I had an ulterior motive for getting lost in Siena. But no, this time, I am afraid, the visit was all about...
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Quiet days in Chianti
BenThere is something amazingly relaxing about going on holiday to the same place every year. I'm not quite sure what it is. I suppose that because you can anticipate, with...
Quiet days in Chianti
by Ben PentreathThere is something amazingly relaxing about going on holiday to the same place every year. I'm not quite sure what it is. I suppose that because you can anticipate, with...
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It’s hotter in Siena
BenI've heard there's bit of a heatwave in London this weekend... but I can't help feeling it might have been hotter in Siena. We arrived on Thursday afternoon for the...
It’s hotter in Siena
by Ben PentreathI've heard there's bit of a heatwave in London this weekend... but I can't help feeling it might have been hotter in Siena. We arrived on Thursday afternoon for the...
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If the map fits, hang it…
BenWell, a lot of comments on the previous post seem to be to do with my map of London... I can sort of understand why! I can't quite remember when...
If the map fits, hang it…
by Ben PentreathWell, a lot of comments on the previous post seem to be to do with my map of London... I can sort of understand why! I can't quite remember when...
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Moving pictures
BenWell, apologies for such brief postings; I can at last download photos again! And in the middle of Olympic-silent London, this weekend, I have moved. It was a fun if...
Moving pictures
by Ben PentreathWell, apologies for such brief postings; I can at last download photos again! And in the middle of Olympic-silent London, this weekend, I have moved. It was a fun if...
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Sitting Down Sports
BenI will blog a bit more about the week's doings (for instance I'm about to move the first bits and pieces into my new flat...) when I've fixed my camera....
Sitting Down Sports
by Ben PentreathI will blog a bit more about the week's doings (for instance I'm about to move the first bits and pieces into my new flat...) when I've fixed my camera....
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The Walled Garden
BenIs there anything more beautiful in the world than a walled garden? The answer we all know to be no. There is something so contained, so benign, about a walled...
The Walled Garden
by Ben PentreathIs there anything more beautiful in the world than a walled garden? The answer we all know to be no. There is something so contained, so benign, about a walled...
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And to Rousham…
BenA couple of weeks ago, to Garsington; and yesterday, to another dream Oxfordshire garden, Rousham. I am sure this needs no introduction to most readers, and in a sense I...
And to Rousham…
by Ben PentreathA couple of weeks ago, to Garsington; and yesterday, to another dream Oxfordshire garden, Rousham. I am sure this needs no introduction to most readers, and in a sense I...
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House and Garden in the early 60s
BenOne of my obsessions? House and Garden Magazine in the 1960s. This is probably not the time to start rehearsing in detail the brilliance of the magazine's fantastic editor, Robert...
House and Garden in the early 60s
by Ben PentreathOne of my obsessions? House and Garden Magazine in the 1960s. This is probably not the time to start rehearsing in detail the brilliance of the magazine's fantastic editor, Robert...
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Apres moi, le deluge…
Ben...or in the case of the Bride Valley this weekend, après le deluge, le soleil. A massive rainstorm swept through the valley yesterday; water poured off the hills, the River...
Apres moi, le deluge…
by Ben Pentreath...or in the case of the Bride Valley this weekend, après le deluge, le soleil. A massive rainstorm swept through the valley yesterday; water poured off the hills, the River...
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To Garsington
BenAnd then, from the Isle of Wight, I caught the train to Oxford, where I was met by Will and Alexa, and we drove to my friend Catherine's house at...
To Garsington
by Ben PentreathAnd then, from the Isle of Wight, I caught the train to Oxford, where I was met by Will and Alexa, and we drove to my friend Catherine's house at...
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Messing about with boats
BenI think a very large part of my childhood was spent on the water. I guess that's what comes from having a dad in the Navy. Every year our summer...
Messing about with boats
by Ben PentreathI think a very large part of my childhood was spent on the water. I guess that's what comes from having a dad in the Navy. Every year our summer...
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Waterloo Sunset
BenIt was a beautiful evening in London last night. The light was amazing (and it is a beautiful morning as well). I felt the need to get out and enjoy...
Waterloo Sunset
by Ben PentreathIt was a beautiful evening in London last night. The light was amazing (and it is a beautiful morning as well). I felt the need to get out and enjoy...
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Making progress
BenMy new flat has caused quite a bit of comment on the previous post; I am grateful for your thoughts and gratified by the interest! It's taking shape and here...
Making progress
by Ben PentreathMy new flat has caused quite a bit of comment on the previous post; I am grateful for your thoughts and gratified by the interest! It's taking shape and here...
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A blank canvas
BenBut really what is on my mind at the moment is this. I am moving flat. Not very far; about 2 minutes up the road, to Queen Square... which will...
A blank canvas
by Ben PentreathBut really what is on my mind at the moment is this. I am moving flat. Not very far; about 2 minutes up the road, to Queen Square... which will...
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Flaming June
BenDo you ever have the feeling you're in the wrong place? I had made a vague plan to be in London for the weekend, but waking incredibly early on Saturday...
Flaming June
by Ben PentreathDo you ever have the feeling you're in the wrong place? I had made a vague plan to be in London for the weekend, but waking incredibly early on Saturday...
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Drenched…
BenI hope you didn't get too drenched on your way to work this morning. London is soaking. For those of our readers overseas, I know we have a reputation for...
Drenched…
by Ben PentreathI hope you didn't get too drenched on your way to work this morning. London is soaking. For those of our readers overseas, I know we have a reputation for...
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Evening Mist
BenSome photographs of the garden on a misty evening over at the fabulous new Gardenista website... brought to you by our friends at Remodelista. The post Evening Mist appeared first...
Evening Mist
by Ben PentreathSome photographs of the garden on a misty evening over at the fabulous new Gardenista website... brought to you by our friends at Remodelista. The post Evening Mist appeared first...
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Jubilee Village!
BenIt's pouring with rain, the valley is drenched, and we're all exhausted. But it's that happy sort of exhaustion that comes from knowing that you've just put on the best...
Jubilee Village!
by Ben PentreathIt's pouring with rain, the valley is drenched, and we're all exhausted. But it's that happy sort of exhaustion that comes from knowing that you've just put on the best...
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Jubilee Hall
BenWhat is that splash of vivid red I spied out of my bedroom window when I woke up early this morning? Hmm. I was not particularly thrilled that the black...
Jubilee Hall
by Ben PentreathWhat is that splash of vivid red I spied out of my bedroom window when I woke up early this morning? Hmm. I was not particularly thrilled that the black...
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May evenings
BenDon't you love this time of year? And when summer finally arrived—with a brilliantly hot, sparkling week—the garden, like the countryside, burst into life. I've been missing Dorset so much...
May evenings
by Ben PentreathDon't you love this time of year? And when summer finally arrived—with a brilliantly hot, sparkling week—the garden, like the countryside, burst into life. I've been missing Dorset so much...
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It’s all in the details…
BenWe know this to be true, don't we? The smallest details matter. This is as true of one of our architecture projects: the architrave around a door, or the design...
It’s all in the details…
by Ben PentreathWe know this to be true, don't we? The smallest details matter. This is as true of one of our architecture projects: the architrave around a door, or the design...
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Weird…
BenJust when you think you've seen enough weirdness to last a lifetime, Moscow would get weirder. Ruth, from the office, and I, went for a 36 hour trip to meet...
Weird…
by Ben PentreathJust when you think you've seen enough weirdness to last a lifetime, Moscow would get weirder. Ruth, from the office, and I, went for a 36 hour trip to meet...
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Keeping up to date…
Ben"But you enjoy blogging" a friend said to me this evening. "Well I do, but it's hard to keep up when there's so much to blog about, and no time...
Keeping up to date…
by Ben Pentreath"But you enjoy blogging" a friend said to me this evening. "Well I do, but it's hard to keep up when there's so much to blog about, and no time...
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Behind the Scenes at the Theatre…
BenWe're getting very excited about the exhibition of new works by Ed Kluz next week! Ed has kindly sent me a few photographs showing him at work in the Studio...
Behind the Scenes at the Theatre…
by Ben PentreathWe're getting very excited about the exhibition of new works by Ed Kluz next week! Ed has kindly sent me a few photographs showing him at work in the Studio...
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Lakeland meanderings
BenI am sitting writing this at the end of a fantastic day at the end of a fantastic week in the perfect lakes: an area that I have longed to...
Lakeland meanderings
by Ben PentreathI am sitting writing this at the end of a fantastic day at the end of a fantastic week in the perfect lakes: an area that I have longed to...
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Any colour so long as it’s black?
BenIn case you hadn't noticed, I've got a bit of a thing for black tulips. Queen of the Night, Black Parrot, Black Hero. Well, to be honest, for all tulips...
Any colour so long as it’s black?
by Ben PentreathIn case you hadn't noticed, I've got a bit of a thing for black tulips. Queen of the Night, Black Parrot, Black Hero. Well, to be honest, for all tulips...
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Jubilee Jollies from Ben and Bridie
BenOver here at Ben P towers, we're obviously great supporters of The Royal Family in all their glory, as you will have learned from previous posts: Prince Philip chic, anyone?...
Jubilee Jollies from Ben and Bridie
by Ben PentreathOver here at Ben P towers, we're obviously great supporters of The Royal Family in all their glory, as you will have learned from previous posts: Prince Philip chic, anyone?...
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Easter garden
BenThe garden's gone a bit bonkers in my absence in Scotland last weekend. I'm not sure if it is super-happy-exuberant or bordering on municipal authority flowerbed, but the tulips are...
Easter garden
by Ben PentreathThe garden's gone a bit bonkers in my absence in Scotland last weekend. I'm not sure if it is super-happy-exuberant or bordering on municipal authority flowerbed, but the tulips are...
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Dreaming of Italy
BenI don't know what it is about Easter time and the fact that I'm sitting in my kitchen in Dorset FREEZING. What happened to the balmy spring? Hello?!? The post...
Dreaming of Italy
by Ben PentreathI don't know what it is about Easter time and the fact that I'm sitting in my kitchen in Dorset FREEZING. What happened to the balmy spring? Hello?!? The post...
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Timewashed in Scotland
BenI got back from Inverness on Monday night, after a fantastic, head-spinning day picking paint colours and making plans for the huge, romantic castle that I am beginning to help...
Timewashed in Scotland
by Ben PentreathI got back from Inverness on Monday night, after a fantastic, head-spinning day picking paint colours and making plans for the huge, romantic castle that I am beginning to help...
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The Selby wants to be in your place…
BenDo you follow one of my favourite websites, The Selby is in your Place? I'm sure you already do, but if you don't, have a little browse. The post The...
The Selby wants to be in your place…
by Ben PentreathDo you follow one of my favourite websites, The Selby is in your Place? I'm sure you already do, but if you don't, have a little browse. The post The...
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A tale of two lives
BenOne of the things which makes me happiest, I think, is being able to combine life in the country and in London. From time to time I get worried about...
A tale of two lives
by Ben PentreathOne of the things which makes me happiest, I think, is being able to combine life in the country and in London. From time to time I get worried about...
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Spring stirring
BenIt's been a busy two days in the office and I haven't had time to post a few photographs since getting back from Dorset. It was a sparkling happy weekend...
Spring stirring
by Ben PentreathIt's been a busy two days in the office and I haven't had time to post a few photographs since getting back from Dorset. It was a sparkling happy weekend...
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Changing colours…
BenWhat's one of the most inspiring things you can do? Change your colours. As many of you know, we recently did a bit of a revamp in the shop, which...
Changing colours…
by Ben PentreathWhat's one of the most inspiring things you can do? Change your colours. As many of you know, we recently did a bit of a revamp in the shop, which...
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London my beautiful city (2)
BenA little while ago, back last autumn, I took a walk across London on a sparkling October day. I called that post London, beautiful city. A moment when I, for...
London my beautiful city (2)
by Ben PentreathA little while ago, back last autumn, I took a walk across London on a sparkling October day. I called that post London, beautiful city. A moment when I, for...
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Worth the wait…
BenI've been in Scotland, back up in the Moray Firth for a few very happy days working on our architectural project there - shaping the early development of a new...
Worth the wait…
by Ben PentreathI've been in Scotland, back up in the Moray Firth for a few very happy days working on our architectural project there - shaping the early development of a new...
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We hope you like…
BenOur new look home page. The website elves (well, specifically, our brilliant web designer Joe Smalley) have been hard at work making a few tweaks which hopefully will make it...
We hope you like…
by Ben PentreathOur new look home page. The website elves (well, specifically, our brilliant web designer Joe Smalley) have been hard at work making a few tweaks which hopefully will make it...
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Valley and Sea
BenIt was the sort of day in Dorset that you dream of. We woke to clear, brilliant sunshine and after breakfast went down to the sea, for a walk on...
Valley and Sea
by Ben PentreathIt was the sort of day in Dorset that you dream of. We woke to clear, brilliant sunshine and after breakfast went down to the sea, for a walk on...
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Visual treats
BenA tiny bunch of flowers for the Sunday lunch table; will you look at how beautiful the crocus and snowdrops are? But what I really wanted to write about this...
Visual treats
by Ben PentreathA tiny bunch of flowers for the Sunday lunch table; will you look at how beautiful the crocus and snowdrops are? But what I really wanted to write about this...
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Dorset, the beautiful
BenIt was a beautiful weekend in Dorset. It feels like a little while since I've been at the Old Parsonage, and towards the end of last week we were getting...
Dorset, the beautiful
by Ben PentreathIt was a beautiful weekend in Dorset. It feels like a little while since I've been at the Old Parsonage, and towards the end of last week we were getting...
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David and Celia
BenWhat's on your coffee table right now? A few weeks ago my friend Will produced a ticket to the Hockney exhibition. It was interesting to see (noting, I have to...
David and Celia
by Ben PentreathWhat's on your coffee table right now? A few weeks ago my friend Will produced a ticket to the Hockney exhibition. It was interesting to see (noting, I have to...
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Quiet days
BenDon't you love quiet weekends in London? If you are anything like me you anticipated the snowfall last night with a little hint of childlike excitement. Is it, perhaps, the...
Quiet days
by Ben PentreathDon't you love quiet weekends in London? If you are anything like me you anticipated the snowfall last night with a little hint of childlike excitement. Is it, perhaps, the...
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Down Time
Ben"A few people are worried you're working too hard" said the text message from my friend Ben. Hmmmm, I thought. Okay. They have a point. Except that if you're quite...
Down Time
by Ben Pentreath"A few people are worried you're working too hard" said the text message from my friend Ben. Hmmmm, I thought. Okay. They have a point. Except that if you're quite...
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A tight fit
BenOne of the advantages of living in the tiniest flat in London is that you don't have to go very far for things. I tumble out of bed early and...
A tight fit
by Ben PentreathOne of the advantages of living in the tiniest flat in London is that you don't have to go very far for things. I tumble out of bed early and...
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Recording Britain
BenI've been travelling a little this week—two days in Scotland, on the Moray Firth, at the fantastic project we're about to get going on up there. As we were driving...
Recording Britain
by Ben PentreathI've been travelling a little this week—two days in Scotland, on the Moray Firth, at the fantastic project we're about to get going on up there. As we were driving...
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Getting ahead again
BenI heard on the radio yesterday morning that unless we have some serious rainfall, a drought is to be declared within weeks. You see? It doesn't rain nearly as much...
Getting ahead again
by Ben PentreathI heard on the radio yesterday morning that unless we have some serious rainfall, a drought is to be declared within weeks. You see? It doesn't rain nearly as much...
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Getting ahead…
BenI was going to be helping Robin in the shop this weekend. We've been taking it all apart and putting everything back - repainting, fresh carpet, and a good New...
Getting ahead…
by Ben PentreathI was going to be helping Robin in the shop this weekend. We've been taking it all apart and putting everything back - repainting, fresh carpet, and a good New...
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Green Shoots stirring
BenI'm not a great one for New Year's resolutions. But I would like to start this New Year with a story. The post Green Shoots stirring appeared first on Ben...
Green Shoots stirring
by Ben PentreathI'm not a great one for New Year's resolutions. But I would like to start this New Year with a story. The post Green Shoots stirring appeared first on Ben...
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Christmas Alphabet, Christmas Quiz
BenIt's been a beautiful day in Dorset. We went for drives in the Morris 1000. The sun is now setting along the valley. Maggie, Roland, Will and I have just...
Christmas Alphabet, Christmas Quiz
by Ben PentreathIt's been a beautiful day in Dorset. We went for drives in the Morris 1000. The sun is now setting along the valley. Maggie, Roland, Will and I have just...
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Winter sunset
BenAn extraordinary sky this evening, as drenching rain and storms cleared just at the close of the day. Then it was time for cake and mince pies by the fire...
Winter sunset
by Ben PentreathAn extraordinary sky this evening, as drenching rain and storms cleared just at the close of the day. Then it was time for cake and mince pies by the fire...
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E is for Emily Sutton
BenIf you follow me on Twitter (and if you don't, which I would entirely understand, but might like to, you can here) you will have noticed that I've been particularly...
E is for Emily Sutton
by Ben PentreathIf you follow me on Twitter (and if you don't, which I would entirely understand, but might like to, you can here) you will have noticed that I've been particularly...
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I don’t know about you…
BenBut I've been baking. All those flipping "GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS NOW" Blogs to live up to. Yikes. How do they do it? Hang on... how do I do it?...
I don’t know about you…
by Ben PentreathBut I've been baking. All those flipping "GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS NOW" Blogs to live up to. Yikes. How do they do it? Hang on... how do I do it?...
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What to Look for in Winter
BenEarlier this morning, I was having a bit of a clean up. And came across this little book... Immediately I was propelled back 30 years or more. When I was...
What to Look for in Winter
by Ben PentreathEarlier this morning, I was having a bit of a clean up. And came across this little book... Immediately I was propelled back 30 years or more. When I was...
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Christmas Rose
BenI arrived in Dorset last night, late. I'm glad to say the AGA man had at last done what he needed to do, just in time for winter. The house...
Christmas Rose
by Ben PentreathI arrived in Dorset last night, late. I'm glad to say the AGA man had at last done what he needed to do, just in time for winter. The house...
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By the fire with the FT
BenYou can read my little blog for everyone's favourite newspaper here. Happy weekend... The post By the fire with the FT appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
By the fire with the FT
by Ben PentreathYou can read my little blog for everyone's favourite newspaper here. Happy weekend... The post By the fire with the FT appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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Christmas Windows
BenWhat a fun night last night! All the shops were open for a bustling evening. Wine flowed and mince pies were consumed and it was great to say hello to...
Christmas Windows
by Ben PentreathWhat a fun night last night! All the shops were open for a bustling evening. Wine flowed and mince pies were consumed and it was great to say hello to...
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Happy Christmas with love from the Street!
BenOn Thursday 8th December, Lambs Conduit and Rugby Streets are hosting our very own Happy Christmas Street Party -where all the stores will be staying open late, offering seasonal goodies...
Happy Christmas with love from the Street!
by Ben PentreathOn Thursday 8th December, Lambs Conduit and Rugby Streets are hosting our very own Happy Christmas Street Party -where all the stores will be staying open late, offering seasonal goodies...
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Crackers about Crackers…
BenSo, what is tomorrow? The post Crackers about Crackers… appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
Crackers about Crackers…
by Ben PentreathSo, what is tomorrow? The post Crackers about Crackers… appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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Happy Birthday… to me
BenUm, so I promised that we would get organised, and we did. My great friend Simon who takes all the brilliant photos for our shop very kindly snapped a few...
Happy Birthday… to me
by Ben PentreathUm, so I promised that we would get organised, and we did. My great friend Simon who takes all the brilliant photos for our shop very kindly snapped a few...
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Blessed are the Printmakers
BenYou may remember that last year I wrote about the Whittington Press. Yesterday afternoon I have spent the day with a remarkable new book that John and Rose Randle have...
Blessed are the Printmakers
by Ben PentreathYou may remember that last year I wrote about the Whittington Press. Yesterday afternoon I have spent the day with a remarkable new book that John and Rose Randle have...
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Aftermath…
BenJust in case you were wondering what the kitchen looked like this morning... after a great great night for my 40th birthday party yesterday evening. The post Aftermath… appeared first...
Aftermath…
by Ben PentreathJust in case you were wondering what the kitchen looked like this morning... after a great great night for my 40th birthday party yesterday evening. The post Aftermath… appeared first...