03333 201 801Saved QuotesVisit UsSign in
Get FREE fabric samples - 0/8

Add Swatch

Add Swatch

Add Swatch

Add Swatch

Add Swatch

Add Swatch

Add Swatch

Add Swatch

Interviews

In the bedroom with...Cara Mills

Words by  Sophia Freeman

October 10, 2023

Share:
Graphic Designer Cara Mills is an interiors enthusiast, with her beautiful home having featured in the likes of 25 Beautiful Homes and Good Homes magazines. Delighted to see our Lupin ottoman storage bed take pride of place in her master bedroom, we caught up with Cara for some advise on how to re-create her modern, yet rustic style.
Lupin King Size Ottoman in Pearl (grade 2) fabric
How do you design a calming bedroom scheme?

 I would say slowly build up the space. Go for neutral colour tones such as soft grey-greens, stone shades and hints of blush pinks. Add interest to your bedroom with texture such as panelling, which gives a focus to the room. We included a narrow shelf above the panelling to display candles, pictures and pretty dried flowers. Simple white bedlinen, a large rug and soft lighting all help create a serene oasis!
How did you develop the overall colour palette?

 This was developed over time! I started with a blank canvas - painting the walls in Farrow and Ball Strong White which is a beautiful soft grey. From there, I added pieces gradually. Recent trips to the Cotswolds inspired the grey-green colour for the wall panelling and it was my husband that chose the blush pink for the chest of drawers!
 How have your travels inspired your approach to interior design?

 Being lucky to have stayed in lovely hotels and villas has definitely inspired me! The Pig have beautiful traditional, inspirational interiors that are full of character and quirky corners. I love to mix the old with new. I would best describe my style as 'modern rustic'.
How are you making use of the storage space inside the Lupin ottoman?

 The Ottoman function is a complete game changer! The storage is vast. It currently holds my entire winter wardrobe so it will be perfect for the changing of the seasons.
Why did you choose the playful Lupin bed design?

 I absolutely love the cocooned headboard. It’s such a statement piece which reminds me of some of my favourite hotel stays and the height sits perfectly with the wall panelling. The ottoman base is amazing as it means no more hoovering under the bed!
We know you love to hunt out vintage items  and up-cycle. Talk us through your bedroom furniture! 

 Yes, I have upcycled the pine chest of drawers giving it a new lease of life with brass handles and I painted it a pretty shade of Antoinette Pink by Annie Sloan. I was also kindly given a console table by my friend to repurpose into a much needed dressing table. I’m now in my 40’s and I can’t believe I’ve lived without one for so long!
Any tips for snapping up a beautiful piece of vintage furniture?

 I am always on the lookout! Note down measurements so if you see a piece that takes your eye so you’ll know if it will fit the space. Charity shops are great for smaller pieces. I love visiting Sunbury Antiques Market at Kempton racecourse.
What’s your favourite cocktail to make for unwinding after a long day’s work?

 It would have to be this easy to make Dark Fruit Bramble! Utterly delicious! 50ml gin, 25ml fresh lemon juice and 3 tablespoons of blackberry jam. To garnish: A lemon twist and blackberries. Combine the ingredients in an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake well. Strain into a tumbler filled with crushed ice and add garnish