Country Living

Peeling Back the Layers of Time

Restoring her family home in the ancient town of Rye was a true labor of love for Amber Baker. The process felt like uncovering history itself—starting with the removal of carpets, followed by the careful restoration of flagstone floors and the meticulous reconstruction of wattle and daub walls, complete with lambswool insulation and lathe and plaster.

Amber had high hopes of unearthing hidden treasures. “But we never found anything!” she laughs. “All we discovered were a lot of bad 20th-century decisions that needed fixing.”

A carefully curated palette of black, golden yellow, and off-white brings cohesion to the space, with vibrant accents introduced through artwork and accessories. Thoughtfully chosen furniture, evocative of the past, adds character while blending seamlessly with contemporary elements.

The result is a home that honors its rich history while embracing modern comfort—a beautifully balanced restoration that carries the charm of the past into the present.

Words by Jo Leevers
Photographs by Brent Darby
Production by Ben Kendrick

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