It was many moons ago that I got the chance to interview Abby Lopez Abby of @another_old_school_house about her gorgeous period school house for Reclaim magazine. I loved the cosy interior she has created and I hope her style will inspire you in your own autumn decorating projects.
Abby had done plenty of research on the school house, with reports from the local historical society and the deeds showing different dates that it was constructed – ranging from 1890 to 1902 – making it Edwardian or Victorian.
Either way, it is full of period character with cornicing, fireplaces and wooden floorboards. Abby sourced countless pieces of secondhand furniture and antiques to create an interior with a truly vintage feel, and upcycled pieces to suit her natural, rustic style.
I love the cosy dual-aspect living room, with sofas at one end and a writing desk at the other. I could just imagine snuggling up in the squishy armchairs and enjoying the warm glow of the fireplace and fairy lights.
The kitchen is equally rustic, with a butcher’s block island in the centre and vintage shelving on the walls to display Abby’s vintage crockery finds and favourite baskets. This gives the kitchen a farmhouse style that suits the period of the home.
In the bedroom, more period features take centre stage, including this cast iron fireplace. Abby has selected antique wooden furniture for storage throughout the house, with only a few new pieces added in to mix-and-match with the vintage style.
I personally love Abby’s simple style. The bedrooms are uncluttered and the beds are dressed simply with white linens and some Arts & Crafts style patterned cushions. I’ve previously decorated my own home with archive pattern wallpaper so I’m definitely a fan of this style. Here’s a room tour of my Art Nouveau guest room.
The spare bedroom has been decorated with the grandchildren in mind, with colourful cushions and quilt, and plenty of practical storage – including lovely baskets that are in-keeping with the rest of the interior.
What do you think of this period property? Tell me your favourite room and any design ideas you’ve been inspired by in the comments below. Don’t forget to follow Abby on Instagram @another_old_school_house for more cosy interior design updates. And, if you want to read more about Abby’s home, you can find the back issue of Reclaim magazine issue 65 here.
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