Sunday Times Style Magazine
by Caroline Donald, pictures by Ray Main
Carolyn Sainsot’s move from a large Georgian rectory in the Somerset countryside to a former electrical shop in the town of Bruton might seem a lifestyle decision taken in reverse. But Lake House is full of surprises: behind a double shop front lies a Tardis-like space, spread over three floors, with a private, south-facing courtyard beyond.
“When I bought it, everyone thought I was mad,” Sainsot says. But there was a method in her madness, as the cottage is perfect for the reiki practice she is setting up, and her children, aged 11, 13 and 16, can now walk to school.
Sainsot entrusted the renovation and decoration of Lake House to Julia Barnard, and old friend who is an interior and garden designer. “Part of the reason I bought a town house is that it’s neat and I can shut it up to go to London. Julia knew exactly what I wanted,” Sainsot says.