Every so often I’m sent a set of photos and realise that they have to be featured, and this gorgeous shoot from Natural Elements Flooring provided one of those moments. Styled by Debra Morrall and photographed by Andrew Hatfield, it certainly helps to have a location as wonderful as Kettleburgh Hall, a beautiful Grade II* listed 16th century country house in Suffolk. The house was purchased by the current owner around ten years ago and has been extensively remodelled since, including a completely new kitchen extension featuring a kitchen by Plain English.
100% wool Africa runner in Gazelle
100% wool Africa rug in Fossa
I love the combination of traditional and contemporary styling that’s seen throughout this house, and how the contemporary pieces sit so well within this Elizabethan backdrop. And these rugs and runners feel like a natural fit within this context. Natural Elements Flooring was set up five years ago in response to the demand for neutral-toned floorcoverings – the kind of designs that provide a timeless backdrop to an interior, featuring lovely weaves and subtle colour combinations.
100% wool Leonardo rug in Cane
100% wool Roma rug
This seems like a good point to acknowledge that this is very much my style. I may admire the bold patterns and geometric designs I see around, but I’d rather have subtle tones and textures that throw the focus onto the furniture. Natural Elements Flooring has two sides to its collections: the wool and wool mix carpets and rugs, and the technical silk collection called TekSilk. To be honest I hadn’t heard of technical silk but this finish looks, acts and feels like pure silk – so it’s a luxurious floorcovering for a bedroom, for example – but it’s also easily cleaned and hardwearing so it works as well in areas of high traffic.
TekSilk Solitaire rug
As well as pure wool, the company also designs wool mix floorcoverings, and my choice would be the tufted loop pile Chenille collection where a subtle glossy thread defines the stripe that runs through the weave. Again, very simple, very elegant.
Wool mix Chenille rug
Wool mix Chenille rug
I feel that the last word here has to go to this amazing house and its eclectic styling. Kettleburgh Hall has provided a beautiful location for these timeless designs.
See the full collection from Natural Elements Flooring.
Styling by Debra Morrall; photography by Andrew Hatfield.
