In an age where sustainability has moved from niche interest to mainstream necessity, households across Britain are rediscovering traditional solutions to everyday challenges. Among these eco-friendly revivals, the ceiling pulley clothes airer stands out as a particularly elegant answer to the modern conundrum of energy-efficient laundry drying.

Once a staple in Victorian homes across the UK, these ingeniously simple devices are experiencing a remarkable renaissance. At Thatch & Stone, we've witnessed firsthand the growing demand for our traditional Victorian ceiling pulley clothes airers that combine timeless craftsmanship with practical functionality. Each piece in our collection marries heritage design with everyday utility, offering an authentic Victorian-inspired solution that works perfectly in contemporary homes.

Far from being relics of a bygone era, these traditional airers offer compelling benefits for today's environmentally conscious homeowner, providing a beautiful and eco-friendly way to dry laundry naturally while making a subtle statement about sustainable living.

The Rise of Eco-Friendly Laundry Drying

The humble act of drying laundry has surprisingly significant environmental implications. Tumble dryers rank among the most energy-hungry appliances in British homes, consuming between 2 and 4 kWh per cycle—a substantial contribution to both household energy bills and carbon footprints. As energy costs continue to climb and environmental awareness deepens, many households are seeking alternatives that align with more sustainable living practices.

Ceiling pulley airers represent perhaps the most elegant solution to this everyday challenge. Operating without a single watt of electricity, these mechanical systems harness nothing more than natural air flow and ceiling height to dry clothes effectively. Our traditional Victorian ceiling pulley clothes airers at Thatch & Stone embody this eco-conscious approach, crafted from sustainably sourced wood and durable iron fittings as a direct alternative to energy-intensive modern appliances.

The environmental mathematics are simple yet compelling: every load of laundry dried on a pulley airer rather than in a tumble dryer represents both immediate energy savings and a measurable reduction in household carbon emissions. By choosing one of our airers, you're making a conscious decision to embrace eco-friendly laundry drying methods that align with contemporary environmental concerns while honoring traditional craftsmanship.

This shift towards sustainable drying solutions reflects a broader movement in British home design—one that values sustainability not as an optional extra but as a fundamental consideration

Victorian Ingenuity for Contemporary Challenges

Victorian ceiling airers emerged as a brilliantly simple answer to the perennial challenge of drying clothes in Britain's notoriously damp climate. Their design utilised several principles that remain as relevant today as they were 150 years ago: the natural rise of warm air, the maximisation of vertical space, and the mechanical advantage provided by a simple pulley system.

At Thatch & Stone, we've remained faithful to these time-tested principles in our range of traditional Victorian ceiling pulley clothes airers. Crafted from sustainably sourced wood and durable iron fittings, our airers honour authentic Victorian design while incorporating subtle improvements in materials and craftsmanship. Each piece represents a perfect marriage of historical accuracy and modern requirements.

These Victorian airer benefits continue to make perfect sense in contemporary homes. The design allows clothing to be suspended high in the warmest part of the room, where rising heat naturally accelerates the drying process. When not in use, the entire apparatus can be hoisted back to ceiling height, reclaiming valuable floor space. The pulleys themselves provide mechanical advantage, making it remarkably easy to raise even a fully-loaded airer with minimal effort.

Maximising Space in Modern British Homes

Space constraints remain a pressing reality for many UK households. With the average British home offering considerably less floor space than European counterparts, finding space-saving clothes drying solutions becomes particularly crucial during colder months when outdoor drying isn't viable.

Traditional ceiling airers address space challenges brilliantly by utilising a dimension of domestic space that typically goes unused—the area between head height and ceiling. By suspending laundry in this otherwise empty zone, pulley airers deliver considerable drying capacity without sacrificing precious floor area. This vertical thinking makes them especially valuable in:

• Compact urban flats where every square metre counts

• Period terraced houses with limited utility space

• Open-plan living arrangements where visible drying racks would compromise aesthetics

• Family homes where floor space is at a premium for children's activities

The adjustable nature of pulley systems adds another layer of space-efficiency. When lowered for loading or unloading laundry, the airer sits at a convenient working height; when raised, it lifts damp clothing into the warmest air while simultaneously clearing the space below. This dual-purpose functionality represents space-saving at its most intelligent—a solution that doesn't merely compress activities into smaller areas but actively utilises the three-dimensional nature of domestic space.

Our customers consistently report that installing a ceiling airer transforms their laundry routines, particularly in the challenging winter months when balancing adequate ventilation with heating costs becomes most difficult. The ability to raise damp clothing away from living space while still enabling effective drying represents a space-saving approach that delivers multiple benefits.

Economic Advantages in Times of Rising Energy Costs

The financial case for traditional airers has become increasingly compelling amid the energy price volatility experienced across the UK in recent years. With electricity costs reaching unprecedented levels, the tumble dryer—already one of the most expensive appliances to run—has become a genuine luxury for many households.

A ceiling pulley airer offers immediate and ongoing economic benefits:

Eliminated Running Costs: Unlike electric dryers that consume 2-4 kWh per cycle (currently costing approximately 60p-£1.20 at average UK electricity rates), pulley airers operate completely cost-free after installation.

Reduced Clothing Replacement: The gentle air-drying process significantly extends fabric lifespan compared to tumble drying, which gradually damages fibres through heat and mechanical action. Higher-quality clothing items particularly benefit from traditional drying methods.

Minimal Maintenance Requirements: With no motor, heating element, sensors or electrical components, our pulley airers require virtually no maintenance beyond occasional rope replacement, representing exceptional lifetime value.

Long-Term Durability: A well-crafted ceiling airer, such as those we craft at Thatch & Stone, represents a one-time investment in a solution designed to last a lifetime—a stark contrast to modern appliances with much shorter operational lifespans. Built from raw, natural materials, each of our airers is a statement of quality and durability.

By making use of the warm air that rises naturally in your home, you'll enjoy quicker drying times without relying on energy-hungry tumble dryers. For a typical family running 4-5 dryer loads weekly, the switch to a ceiling airer can represent annual savings exceeding £200 at current energy prices. This economic advantage combines powerfully with environmental benefits to make traditional drying methods increasingly attractive to cost-conscious households seeking sustainable alternatives to energy-intensive appliances.

Gentler Care for Clothing and Textiles

Beyond the environmental and economic considerations, ceiling airers offer significant advantages for clothing care. The aggressive tumbling action and high heat of modern dryers gradually damages fabric fibres, leading to premature wear, shrinkage and colour fading—issues that are particularly problematic for higher-quality garments and natural fibres.

Air drying via a ceiling pulley system allows textiles to dry naturally, maintaining their structural integrity and appearance for significantly longer. The gentle drying process is especially beneficial for:

Delicate Natural Fabrics: Wool, silk, cashmere and linen items maintain their quality substantially longer when air dried rather than tumble dried.

Coloured Clothing: The preservation of dyes is notably superior with air drying, preventing the gradual fading that reduces garment lifespans.

Elasticated Items: Activewear, undergarments and any items containing elastic components maintain their stretch and shape better when heat is eliminated from the drying process.

Heirloom Textiles: For precious household linens passed through generations, traditional drying methods offer preservation benefits that modern alternatives cannot match.

Many customers report that the improved care for clothing represents one of the most satisfying aspects of returning to traditional drying methods with our airers. There's a perceptible difference in how fabrics maintain their hand feel, drape and appearance when dried naturally—a quality distinction that becomes increasingly apparent as more loads are processed using heritage techniques rather than modern mechanical alternatives.

Aesthetic Integration in Contemporary Interiors

Far from being purely utilitarian, ceiling pulley airers can become striking design features in their own right. Their honest mechanical simplicity aligns perfectly with several current interior trends, including industrial heritage, functional minimalism, and authentic period detailing.

Heritage Properties: In Victorian, Edwardian or Georgian homes, our traditionally crafted wooden pulley airers provide period-appropriate functionality that enhances rather than compromises architectural integrity.

Contemporary Spaces: In modern interiors, the straightforward mechanical elegance of pulley systems offers an appealing counterpoint to digital complexity—representing a growing desire for tangible, understandable household solutions.

Country Kitchens: Within rural-inspired interiors, ceiling airers contribute to the working aesthetic of traditional British kitchens, where practical elements are celebrated rather than concealed.

Utility Spaces: In dedicated laundry rooms, the ceiling airer serves as both functional equipment and visual reinforcement of the space's purpose—an honest celebration of domestic craft.

When not loaded with laundry, these systems maintain a discreet presence near ceiling height. Unlike plastic drying racks or wall-mounted alternatives that can visually dominate a space, pulley airers occupy the least visually intrusive zone of the room while still providing substantial drying capacity when needed. Each airer is a statement of quality, sustainability, and traditional British design that elevates your everyday routine.

Embracing Sustainable Heritage for Modern Living

The resurgence of ceiling pulley clothes airers perfectly exemplifies a broader cultural shift: the recognition that sometimes the most sustainable path forward involves revisiting traditional solutions. These elegant systems represent not a rejection of progress, but rather a more nuanced understanding that genuine advancement sometimes means selecting the best approach for each purpose rather than defaulting to the most technologically complex option.

Our commitment to traditional British design and sustainable materials makes each of our airers not just a practical purchase but an investment in quality living. By choosing a Thatch & Stone ceiling pulley airer, you're making a statement about values that extend beyond mere functionality—embracing heritage, sustainability, and thoughtful consumption in one elegant solution.

For those interested in exploring how these traditional laundry solutions might enhance their own homes, Thatch & Stone offers a carefully curated selection of ceiling pulley airers crafted to heritage standards. Browse our range of traditional Victorian clothes airers and discover the perfect addition to your home.

There is something deeply satisfying about transforming a humble crop of apples into a crisp, refreshing cider using nothing but traditional methods and a touch of patience. As the interest in artisanal food and drink continues to flourish across Britain, home cider making has experienced a remarkable renaissance, with enthusiasts discovering the pleasure of crafting their own distinctive brews from locally grown fruit.

At Thatch & Stone, we've witnessed this growing passion firsthand through the popularity of our Traditional Oak & Steel Fruit Press—a sturdy, heritage-inspired piece that combines traditional craftsmanship with practical functionality. Designed for traditional juicing, cider making, and small-batch winemaking, this manual press delivers both rustic beauty and everyday functionality for your kitchen or garden shed. This guide will walk you through the rewarding process of home cider making in the UK, from selecting the perfect apples to savouring your first satisfying sip.

The Essential Equipment for Home Cider Making

The journey from orchard to glass begins with the right equipment, and central to the process is a quality fruit press. Our Traditional Oak & Steel Fruit Press is crafted for simplicity and strength, built to provide years of reliable service while offering an authentic experience that connects you to centuries of British cider-making heritage.

Crafted with heavy-duty steel fittings and a robust oak wood frame, our press offers several distinct advantages over modern alternatives. The sustainably sourced oak construction provides exceptional strength needed to extract maximum juice yield, while the steel components ensure precise pressure control during the pressing process. There's also an undeniable tactile pleasure in working with natural materials—feeling the smooth wooden handle as you turn it, watching the rich amber juice collect in your vessel below.

Beyond the press itself, you'll need relatively few additional items to begin your cider-making journey. A collection vessel for the freshly pressed juice is essential, along with fermentation containers such as glass demijohns or food-grade plastic buckets with airlocks. You'll also need basic cleaning supplies for ensuring hygiene throughout the process and bottles for storing your finished cider.

What sets apart our Oak & Steel Fruit Press is its versatility—suitable not just for apples but for various other fruits as well, allowing for creative experimentation with berries and seasonal fruits across the year. The press's beautiful vintage design makes it perfect for display or gifting, while its timeless construction makes it appropriate for beginners while offering the capacity and control that experienced cider makers appreciate.

Selecting the Perfect Apples for Your Cider

One of the most delightful aspects of home cider making in the UK is our remarkable access to heritage apple varieties perfectly suited to cider production. Unlike dessert apples found in supermarkets, traditional cider apples contain higher levels of tannins, acids, and sugars that contribute to a more complex and satisfying final product.

British orchards offer an impressive diversity of cider apples, broadly categorised into four types:

Sharp: High in acid, low in tannins—varieties like Bramley and Brown's Apple provide the refreshing tartness essential to well-balanced cider.

Bittersharp: High in both acid and tannins—exemplified by Kingston Black, often considered the perfect single-variety cider apple for its balanced profile.

Bittersweet: Low acid, high tannin content—varieties such as Dabinett and Yarlington Mill contribute depth, body and that distinctive 'cider' character.

Sweet: Low in both acid and tannins—apples like Sweet Coppin provide the fermentable sugars needed for alcoholic strength without dominant flavours.

For beginners, a simple approach is to aim for roughly 50% sweet or dessert apples combined with 50% sharper varieties. This balance typically creates a pleasantly drinkable cider without requiring extensive blending expertise.

Local farm shops, community orchards, and even neglected old apple trees in country lanes can yield excellent pressing fruit. Many UK regions have specific varieties that have historically thrived in their soil and climate—from Somerset's Kingston Black to Herefordshire's Foxwhelp. Exploring these local varieties connects your cider making to the distinctive terroir of your region, creating a truly authentic expression of place.

Remember that perfectly unblemished fruit isn't necessary for excellent cider—slightly imperfect apples often contain higher sugar levels and more complex flavours. However, do avoid fruit with signs of rot or mould, as these can introduce unwanted microorganisms to your brew.

How to Press Apples at Home: A Step-by-Step Approach

The process of extracting juice from apples using a manual fruit press follows a rhythm that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Using our Thatch & Stone Traditional Oak & Steel Fruit Press lets you experience the art of home pressing the traditional way, with no electricity needed—just the satisfaction of doing things the classic way. Here's our comprehensive guide to getting the most from your press:

Preparing Your Fruit

Before pressing begins, your apples need proper preparation to ensure maximum juice extraction:

1. Harvest at peak ripeness: Ideal cider apples should be fully ripe—often slightly softer than eating apples. A good test is to cut one open; the pips should be brown rather than white.
   
   

2. Washing and inspection: Rinse your apples thoroughly to remove any dirt, spray residues, or unwanted wildlife. While small blemishes are acceptable, cut away any significantly damaged or mouldy sections.
   
   

3. Ripening (optional): Some cider makers 'sweat' their apples by storing them in a single layer for 1-2 weeks after harvesting. This process increases sugar content and softens the fruit, potentially improving juice yield.
   
   

4. Crushing or milling: Before pressing, apples must be broken down into a pulp or 'pomace'. Traditionally, this was done with a scratter or mill, but home cider makers can use a clean garden shredder, food processor, or even crush them by hand in smaller batches. The goal is to break down the cellular structure of the fruit to facilitate juice release.
   
   

The Pressing Process

Now comes the satisfying part—transforming your prepared apple pulp into juice using your traditional fruit press:

1. Press preparation: Ensure your Oak & Steel Fruit Press is clean and assembled correctly. The press is easy to clean and store between uses. Many cider makers line their press basket with a muslin cloth, which helps contain the pulp while allowing juice to flow freely.
   
   

2. Loading the press: Place your crushed apple pulp into the press basket, filling it to approximately 2-3cm below the rim. Fold over any muslin cloth to contain the pomace. Whether you're pressing apples for cider, berries for small batch wine production, or other garden or orchard harvests, the process remains similar.
   
   

3. Applying pressure: Begin turning the handle of your press clockwise, applying gentle pressure initially. You'll soon see juice beginning to flow from the outlet into your collection vessel below. The oak construction of our press provides the strength needed to withstand significant pressure without warping, ensuring long-term durability season after season.
   
   

4. Gradual increase: Continue turning the handle, increasing pressure gradually rather than forcing it. Patience is rewarded with higher yields. When the flow of juice slows to a trickle, you can disassemble the press, break up the compressed pomace, and press again for maximum extraction.
   
   

5. Collection and transfer: The freshly pressed juice should be transferred to your fermentation vessel promptly to prevent oxidation or contamination. A typical yield is approximately 50-70% juice by weight—10kg of apples should produce roughly 5-7 litres of juice.
   
   

The beautiful vintage design of our Oak & Steel Fruit Press makes this process both intuitive and efficient, with the wooden components providing natural antibacterial properties that have been valued by cider makers for centuries. It's not just a tool, but a decorative and functional addition to traditional kitchens.

The Alchemy of Fermentation

With your fresh-pressed juice collected, you now enter the magical phase of cider making—fermentation. This natural process transforms sweet apple juice into dry, alcoholic cider through the action of yeasts that convert sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

Natural vs. Cultured Yeast Fermentation

Home cider makers face an important decision at this stage:

Wild fermentation: Allowing the naturally occurring yeasts present on apple skins to ferment your juice creates cider with distinctive local character. This traditional approach produces complex, unique flavours but with less predictable results. For wild fermentation, simply transfer your juice to a clean fermentation vessel, fit an airlock, and allow nature to take its course.

Cultured yeast: For more consistent results, many cider makers opt to add specific cider yeasts purchased from home brewing suppliers. These cultured yeasts can provide more reliable fermentation and help achieve particular flavour profiles. If using cultured yeast, follow the supplier's instructions for quantity and preparation.

Whichever approach you choose, the fermentation vessel should be filled to about 80% capacity to allow for the foaming that occurs during active fermentation, and fitted with an airlock that permits carbon dioxide to escape while preventing air from entering.

Monitoring Fermentation

The initial fermentation is typically quite vigorous, with visible bubbling and foaming for the first few days. The airlock will bubble actively as carbon dioxide escapes. This primary fermentation usually continues for 1-2 weeks, gradually slowing as available sugars are consumed.

Store your fermenting cider in a cool area (ideally 12-18°C) away from direct sunlight. After the initial vigorous phase, fermentation will continue more slowly for several weeks or even months, gradually clearing as yeast and particles settle to the bottom of the vessel.

Maturing and Storing Your Homemade Cider

Patience is perhaps the most important ingredient in creating exceptional cider. After primary fermentation has completed (when airlock bubbling has essentially stopped), you'll need to make another key decision:

Racking for Clarity

Many cider makers choose to 'rack' their brew—carefully siphoning the cider into a fresh container, leaving behind the sediment that has settled at the bottom. This process improves clarity and can enhance flavour by separating the cider from spent yeast. Racking typically occurs 1-2 months after initial pressing, with some makers conducting multiple rackings for exceptional clarity.

Bottle Conditioning vs. Still Cider

As your cider approaches maturity (usually 3-6 months after pressing), you'll need to decide whether to create a still or sparkling final product:

Still cider: Simply bottle the matured cider directly, perhaps adding a small amount of Camden tablet (sodium metabisulphite) to prevent further fermentation.

Sparkling cider: To achieve natural carbonation, add a small amount of sugar before bottling (approximately 5-7g per litre) to provide food for remaining yeast, creating carbon dioxide that dissolves into the cider. This process, known as 'bottle conditioning', requires using bottles strong enough to withstand pressure—beer bottles with crown caps are ideal.

Proper Storage Conditions

Home-produced cider benefits from proper storage conditions:

• Store bottles horizontally if using corks, or vertically if using crown caps

• Maintain a cool, consistent temperature (10-15°C is ideal)

• Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent UV damage

• Allow at least one month of bottle conditioning before sampling sparkling varieties

Under proper conditions, homemade cider can continue improving for 1-2 years, with complex flavours developing and harsh edges softening over time.

The Heritage of Home Cider Making in Britain

The process of pressing apples for cider is deeply woven into the fabric of British rural tradition, with records dating back to the Norman conquest. Historically, many farms and households would produce their own cider as both a practical way to preserve the autumn harvest and a source of safe hydration when water quality was unreliable.

By engaging in home cider making with traditional equipment like our Oak & Steel Fruit Press, you're participating in a craft that has sustained communities and defined regional identities for centuries. Each county with significant cider-making history—from Devon and Somerset to Herefordshire and Kent—developed distinctive styles reflecting their local apple varieties and traditions.

Our eco-friendly and long-lasting fruit press is built from sustainably sourced oak and steel, materials chosen not just for their functionality but also for their connection to this rich heritage. The timeless construction ensures ease of use and durability that will last season after season—an investment in a traditional craft that will pay dividends for years to come.

The Rewarding Journey of Cider Making

The revival of interest in home cider making across the UK represents more than just a trend—it's a reconnection with traditional skills, local produce, and the pleasure of creating something wonderful from the simplest ingredients. From the satisfying physical work of crushing and pressing apples to the patient art of fermentation and maturation, each stage offers its own rewards.

Our Traditional Oak & Steel Fruit Press serves as both a practical tool and a tangible link to this heritage craft. Ideal for home juicing and cider making, small batch wine production, and processing garden or orchard harvests, it's a tool that looks as good as it works. Built with traditional materials chosen for their functionality and longevity, it's designed to become a cherished piece that facilitates your cider-making journey for many years to come.

Start pressing with purpose and make the most of nature the traditional way. Visit Thatch & Stone to explore our Traditional Oak & Steel Fruit Press and complementary homeware that celebrates heritage crafts and sustainable living.

There's something undeniably magical about a rustic garden as dusk falls—the fading light softening weathered textures, the gentle movement of ornamental grasses in the evening breeze, and at its heart, the warm glow of a firepit casting its dancing light across the space. This harmonious blend of natural elements creates an outdoor sanctuary that feels both timeless and deeply inviting.

At Thatch & Stone, we've designed our collection of freestanding rusted firepits to transform ordinary gardens into characterful havens where memories are made. Crafted with an intentional rusted patina, these robust centrepieces not only extend the usability of outdoor spaces throughout Britain's changeable seasons but also serve as striking focal points that anchor rustic garden designs with authentic charm.

In this guide, we'll explore thoughtful approaches to creating cosy, characterful outdoor areas using firepits as the cornerstone of your design. Whether you're working with a sprawling country garden or a modest urban courtyard, we'll share practical rustic garden ideas that celebrate natural materials, relaxed styling, and the enduring appeal of gathering around a fire.

Embracing the Rustic Garden Aesthetic

The essence of rustic garden design lies in its celebration of imperfection and weathered beauty. Unlike manicured formal gardens that strive for symmetry and precision, rustic spaces revel in organic shapes, textural variety, and the subtle patina that develops as materials age naturally in the elements.

When considering rustic garden ideas, begin by observing the natural landscape around you. The most successful rustic gardens feel as though they've emerged organically from their surroundings, honouring local materials and planting traditions while creating spaces that invite relaxation and connection.

Key elements that define the rustic aesthetic include:

Weathered Materials: Reclaimed timber, aged stone, antique bricks, and naturally rusted metal all contribute to the authentic character of a rustic garden. These materials tell a story through their patina, connecting your garden to a sense of heritage and craftsmanship.

Informal Planting: Loose, naturalistic plantings that echo the countryside complement the rustic approach perfectly. Consider billowing ornamental grasses, cottage garden perennials, and herbs that spill gently over pathways. Allow plants to self-seed in places, creating that coveted sense of established abundance.

Textural Contrasts: The most engaging rustic gardens play with contrasting textures—rough stone against smooth timber, spiky seedheads beside feathery foliage, and the dynamic movement of flames within the solid form of a firepit.

At Thatch & Stone, our rusted freestanding firepits embody these rustic principles beautifully. Each piece develops a unique patina over time, creating a natural focal point that anchors your garden design while providing both practical warmth and visual interest throughout the seasons.

The Enduring Appeal of Freestanding Firepits

While built-in fire features certainly have their place, freestanding firepit styling offers unparalleled flexibility for rustic garden design. These versatile elements can be repositioned as seasons or social occasions demand, allowing you to continuously refresh your outdoor space without permanent construction work.

The beauty of a freestanding design lies in its ability to create an instant gathering point wherever it's needed—with no installation required. Position your firepit centrally on a summer evening when entertaining larger groups, or tuck it into a sheltered corner during autumn months for intimate fireside conversations. This adaptability makes our firepits particularly valuable for year-round patio heating in the UK climate, where making the most of good weather often requires spontaneity and flexibility.

Beyond their practical advantages, our firepits offer sculptural interest even when not in use. Their simple, bold forms create striking silhouettes at any time of year, especially when strategically positioned to catch morning light or sunset glows. This dual functionality—as both practical heat source and artistic garden element—exemplifies thoughtful rustic garden design, making them the perfect focal point for your outdoor décor.

Creating Cosy Outdoor Areas with Firepits

The heart of rustic garden appeal lies in creating spaces that invite lingering and connection. A well-designed firepit area transforms even the most modest garden into a destination that draws people outdoors year-round, perfect for garden gatherings and outdoor entertaining. Here's how to craft these inviting spaces with character and comfort:

Thoughtful Seating Arrangements

The arrangement of seating around your firepit fundamentally shapes how the space will be used and experienced. For authentic rustic garden styling, consider informal, flexible arrangements that encourage conversation while maintaining comfort.

Circular or semi-circular layouts work particularly well, allowing everyone to enjoy the warmth and visual pleasure of the flames. Rather than matching sets, consider an eclectic mix of seating types—perhaps a weathered wooden bench alongside vintage metal chairs with comfortable cushions, or even large stone blocks for more architectural settings.

Distance is crucial when planning firepit seating. Position chairs and benches close enough to benefit from the warmth (typically 1.5-2 metres from the fire's edge) while allowing enough space for people to move comfortably around the area. Remember that natural gathering spaces feel generous but intimate—striking this balance is key to successful rustic garden design.

Grounding with Natural Materials

The space immediately surrounding your firepit deserves careful consideration both for safety and aesthetics. Create a non-combustible base using materials that enhance your rustic garden theme while providing practical protection for grass or timber decking.

Reclaimed brick laid in circular patterns, weathered flagstones, or a simple bed of river pebbles all provide suitable hearth areas that complement the rustic aesthetic. For additional interest, consider varying the materials in concentric circles—perhaps gravel immediately around the firepit, transitioning to larger stones and then to surrounding planting or lawn.

When selecting these materials, remain mindful of the overall colour palette in your garden. The warm oranges and deep browns of our rusted firepits pair beautifully with honey-coloured limestone, silvered timber, and the varied greens of surrounding planting. This thoughtful coordination creates a harmonious rustic garden scene that feels considered without appearing contrived.

Layering with Seasonal Textiles

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to enhance firepit gatherings is through the judicious use of textiles. These soft elements not only add physical comfort but also bring colour, pattern, and a sense of being cared for to outdoor spaces.

For authentic rustic garden styling, choose natural fabrics in earthy tones—think undyed wool throws, linen cushions in faded terracotta or moss green, and perhaps a few hardy cotton rugs to define the seating area. These textiles can be easily changed with the seasons, allowing your firepit area to feel cosy in winter with deeper colours and heavier fabrics, then fresh and inviting in summer with lighter linen and cotton.

Weather-resistant storage nearby—perhaps a rustic wooden chest or ceramic pot with lid—allows these comfort-enhancing elements to be kept close at hand without suffering unnecessarily from British weather. This practical consideration ensures your firepit area remains inviting and ready for impromptu gatherings throughout the year.

Ambient Lighting Layers

While your Thatch & Stone firepit will naturally provide captivating illumination, supplementary lighting extends the usability of your rustic garden and enhances its atmospheric qualities after dark.

For authentic rustic garden ideas that complement firepit styling, consider:

Lanterns and Candles: Traditional storm lanterns in aged metal, simple pillar candles in glass hurricane vases, or rustic wooden lanterns all provide gentle, moving light that enhances rather than competes with your firepit's glow.

Festoon Lighting: Strung between trees or along garden structures, vintage-style festoon bulbs create a canopy of warm light that defines outdoor rooms without appearing too polished or contemporary.

Subtle Path Lighting: Low-level copper or brass path lights guide guests safely to your firepit area while adding subtle illumination to surrounding planting.

The key with rustic garden lighting is restraint—aim for gentle pools of light rather than uniform brightness, allowing shadows to play across textural surfaces and maintaining the intimate atmosphere that makes firepit gatherings so special.

Strategic Placement in UK Gardens

Freestanding firepit styling must account for the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the British climate. With our characteristically changeable weather, creating sheltered spaces becomes particularly important for maximising enjoyment of your garden year-round.

Thatch & Stone's firepits are designed to add warmth and character to your outdoor space, effectively turning it into a cosy, welcoming retreat suitable for year-round patio heating. Their durable freestanding design means they can be positioned wherever they'll work best in your garden without installation requirements. When selecting the ideal location for your firepit, consider:

Wind Patterns: Observe how air moves through your garden in different seasons. Position your firepit where it's naturally sheltered from prevailing winds, perhaps using existing structures, mature shrubs, or carefully placed hurdles to create windbreaks.

Evening Light: In the UK's northern latitude, evening light dramatically affects how we experience outdoor spaces. Position your firepit where it can capture the last rays of setting sun during spring and autumn months, extending the usability of your garden into cooler evenings.

Practical Proximity: Balance the desirable seclusion of a firepit area with practical considerations like access to fuel storage, proximity to the house for carrying refreshments, and the visibility of the garden's other features and planting.

Seasonal Adaptability: One of the key advantages of our freestanding firepits is that they require no installation and can be moved as seasonal conditions change. A summer position might prioritise views and evening light, while an autumn location might favour shelter and proximity to the house.

This thoughtful placement strategy represents the essence of successful UK garden decor with firepits—adapting to our unique climate challenges while maximising the enjoyment of outdoor living across multiple seasons. Our rusted firepits are made to age beautifully with time, developing even more character as they weather the elements alongside your garden.

Complementary Planting for Firepit Areas

The planting surrounding your firepit area plays a crucial role in creating a cohesive rustic garden atmosphere. Strategic choices can enhance sensory pleasure, provide seasonal structure, and reinforce the natural character that makes rustic gardens so appealing.

For authentic firepit styling that works beautifully in UK gardens, consider:

Aromatic Herbs: Lavender, rosemary, sage, and thyme planted near seating areas release delightful fragrances when brushed against or warmed by nearby fires. These Mediterranean herbs also thrive in the slightly drier microclimate that tends to develop around frequently used firepit areas.

Ornamental Grasses: The movement and sound of grasses like Stipa, Miscanthus, and native Molinia add dynamic interest to firepit settings, especially when backlit by evening sun or firelight. Their winter structure also provides continuing visual appeal during colder months.

Year-Round Structure: Incorporate evergreen elements like clipped box balls, compact yews, or architectural plants such as phormium to maintain visual interest around your firepit area even in winter when deciduous planting has died back.

The key is creating planting that feels generous and slightly untamed—the perfect counterpoint to the controlled element of fire. Allow plants to spill slightly onto paths, embrace the textural contrasts between different foliage types, and include at least some specimens chosen specifically for how they interact with evening light and firepit illumination.

Creating Your Own Rustic Garden Haven

Styling a rustic garden with a characterful firepit is ultimately about creating a space that feels authentic to your surroundings and conducive to the moments you wish to experience there. Whether you're drawn to the quiet contemplation of flames on a solo evening or hosting lively garden gatherings and outdoor entertaining, your firepit area should reflect and facilitate these intentions.

By embracing natural materials, prioritising comfort through thoughtful seating and shelter, and selecting a Thatch & Stone firepit that resonates with your personal aesthetic, you'll create an outdoor space with genuine character and lasting appeal. The rustic garden approach celebrates imperfection, patina, and the beauty that emerges as materials age gracefully in the elements—qualities perfectly embodied in our collection of freestanding firepits.

Our durable freestanding designs require no installation, making them accessible additions to any outdoor space. The pre-rusted steel offers a vintage, weathered finish that provides the perfect focal point for your outdoor décor while remaining suitable for wood burning in various settings. These firepits are designed to transform your garden into a cosy, welcoming retreat—an ambient centrepiece for every gathering that helps make every evening memorable.

Cast iron shelf racks have long transcended their purely utilitarian origins. These sturdy, characterful pieces offer so much more than mere functionality—they bring a touch of heritage charm to any space whilst providing practical storage solutions. Whether you're seeking additional storage in a compact utility room or aiming to create a stunning feature wall, cast iron racks blend practicality with rustic elegance in a way few other home accessories can achieve.

At Thatch & Stone, we've embraced this perfect marriage of style and function with our collection of vintage-inspired shelving designed for everyday purpose. Each piece features raw wooden shelves paired with beautifully crafted cast iron brackets, creating wall-mounted storage solutions that add timeless character to any room.

In this blog, we'll explore inventive ways to incorporate cast iron racks throughout your home, from classic radiator drying racks perfect for British winters to statement shelving that transforms ordinary walls into bespoke features. We'll share styling inspiration, practical advice and real-life examples that demonstrate how these timeless pieces can enhance your living spaces.

The Enduring Charm of Cast Iron

There's something undeniably appealing about cast iron—its robust, industrial quality complements diverse interior styles, from country cottages to contemporary urban flats. Cast iron shelf racks, with their intricate detailing and substantial presence, add a vintage touch that brings warmth and character to modern homes.

Designed for both function and aesthetic appeal, our cast iron shelf racks at Thatch & Stone fit seamlessly into traditional, rustic, or vintage-inspired interiors. The combination of sustainably sourced wooden shelving with ornate cast iron brackets creates pieces that are as beautiful as they are practical.

Originally designed for practical household tasks like drying clothes or storing tools, these racks have evolved into decorative elements that enhance a room's aesthetic without sacrificing utility. The weighty nature of cast iron conveys permanence and craftsmanship, offering an antidote to disposable, mass-produced furnishings. Each piece tells a story, adding layers of interest and authenticity to your interiors whilst working hard in everyday life.

Six Inspired Ways to Use Cast Iron Shelf Racks

1. Over-Radiator Drying Solutions

In British homes, where damp winters are a fact of life, the radiator drying rack serves as an essential fixture. Cast iron radiator racks, designed to sit neatly above your heating, provide an elegant solution to the practical challenge of drying laundry indoors.

Thatch & Stone's versatile shelf racks are perfect for over-radiator installation, featuring durable wooden shelves that withstand the heat whilst the ornate cast iron brackets add decorative appeal. These racks exemplify our philosophy that practical items should also bring beauty to your home.

When your central heating is running, these racks become the perfect spot for gently drying delicates, warming towels before a shower, or airing freshly laundered linens—all whilst reducing reliance on energy-intensive tumble dryers. They're particularly valuable in terraced houses or flats where outdoor drying space is limited.

For a cohesive look in period properties, choose a rack that echoes the style of your radiator—perhaps with scrollwork details that complement Victorian cast iron radiators. In more contemporary settings, a simpler design creates pleasing contrast against sleek, modern radiators. The Thatch & Stone collection includes pieces that work beautifully in both traditional and updated contexts, all easy to mount and maintain.

2. Hallway Organisation with Heritage Appeal

The entryway often becomes a catch-all for everyday essentials—keys, post, scarves and bags can quickly create clutter. A thoughtfully placed cast iron shelf rack transforms this transitional space whilst keeping necessities organised and accessible.

Consider mounting a series of smaller cast iron racks at different heights, creating a bespoke storage solution that accommodates everything from dog leads to umbrellas. The natural patina of aged cast iron adds depth and interest to what might otherwise be an overlooked area of your home.

In a narrow hallway, choose slimline designs that provide functionality without protruding too far from the wall. For grander entrances, a substantial vintage-inspired piece can serve as both practical storage and a welcoming focal point. Style with a carefully curated selection of items—perhaps a small ceramic dish for keys, a scented candle and a few cherished photographs in weathered frames.

3. Kitchen Storage with Character

The kitchen offers endless possibilities for cast iron shelving. From housing everyday essentials to displaying treasured cookware, these racks bring charm to culinary spaces whilst freeing valuable worktop space.

Mount a substantial rack above a range cooker to keep frequently used herbs, spices and cooking oils within easy reach. The warmth from the cooker will release the aromatic qualities of herbs stored in small terracotta pots, adding both visual appeal and practicality.

For a quintessentially British country kitchen aesthetic, pair ornate cast iron shelving with rustic wooden worktops, Belfast sinks and heritage colours. In more contemporary kitchens, the textural contrast between sleek cabinetry and characterful cast iron creates a compelling visual dialogue. Consider styling your shelves with a collection of earthenware mugs, vintage scales or well-thumbed cookbooks for an authentic, lived-in feel.

4. Bathroom Elegance and Efficiency

Bathrooms, particularly in older British homes, often present storage challenges. Cast iron shelf racks offer stylish solutions whilst enhancing the room's character. Position a small rack near the sink for everyday toiletries, or install a larger piece above the bath for fluffy towels and aromatherapy essentials.

Over-toilet shelving makes brilliant use of typically underutilised vertical space. These racks keep necessities accessible whilst adding architectural interest to practical spaces. The natural resistance of cast iron to humidity makes it particularly suitable for bathroom environments.

To create a cohesive bathroom scheme that honours traditional craftsmanship, complement your cast iron shelving with other heritage elements—perhaps a freestanding bath with claw feet, traditional taps in aged brass or Victorian-inspired floor tiles. The juxtaposition of vintage-inspired metalwork against crisp white sanitaryware creates a timeless appeal that transcends passing trends.

5. Living Room Feature Walls with Flair

Beyond pure practicality, cast iron shelf racks can transform ordinary walls into striking design features. A thoughtfully arranged collection of shelves becomes a three-dimensional canvas for personal expression, adding depth and visual interest to living spaces.

Consider creating an asymmetrical arrangement of varied shelf sizes to display treasured objects, art books and botanical specimens. The inherent character of cast iron provides a perfect counterpoint to both contemporary minimalism and more traditional décor schemes.

Against exposed brick or stone walls, the industrial quality of cast iron creates a harmonious dialogue between materials with authentic heritage appeal. In a more formal sitting room, a substantial cast iron shelf painted in a deep, rich shade can anchor the space and showcase a carefully curated collection of objects that tell your personal story.

6. Home Office Organisation with Vintage Flair

With more of us working from home than ever before, creating an inspiring and organised workspace has become essential. Cast iron shelving offers practical storage with character, helping to delineate work areas in multipurpose rooms.

Install a series of shelves above your desk to keep reference materials, stationery and inspirational objects within reach but off your work surface. The visual weight of cast iron creates a sense of permanence and professionalism, even in temporary home office setups.

For a scholarly atmosphere, style your shelves with leather-bound notebooks, brass desk accessories and a small collection of inspiring objects. The traditional craftsmanship of cast iron complements both antique writing desks and more contemporary workstations, bridging past and present in thoughtful ways.

Styling Tips for Cast Iron Shelving Success

When incorporating cast iron racks into your home, consider these practical styling suggestions:

Embrace Material Contrasts: The robust character of cast iron benefits from juxtaposition with softer elements. Consider styling shelves with natural materials like linen, pottery or weathered wood to create textural balance and visual interest.

Create Dynamic Arrangements: Vary the heights and depths of objects displayed on your shelves to create rhythmic compositions. Allow some negative space to prevent overcrowding, letting both the shelves and their contents shine.

Consider Thoughtful Colour Coordination: While traditional black cast iron offers timeless appeal, don't hesitate to experiment with colour. A coat of quality eggshell paint in heritage shades like sage green, charcoal or navy can integrate shelving with your broader colour scheme whilst preserving its character.

Scale Appropriately: Choose shelving proportionate to your space. In smaller rooms, slimline designs prevent visual heaviness, whilst larger spaces can accommodate more substantial pieces that make confident statements.

The Timeless Appeal of Vintage-Inspired Shelving

The growing interest in cast iron shelf racks reflects our broader appreciation for items with authenticity and longevity. In a world of disposable furnishings, these enduring pieces connect our homes with traditional craftsmanship whilst serving contemporary needs.

Whether you're drying freshly laundered sheets on a radiator rack, displaying treasured objects in your sitting room, or simply bringing order to everyday chaos, cast iron shelving offers the perfect balance of form and function. Their versatility makes them suitable for every room, from utility spaces to formal living areas, whilst their inherent character ensures they'll never feel commonplace or ordinary.

For those seeking to infuse their homes with vintage charm without sacrificing practicality, cast iron shelf racks represent an investment in enduring style. Visit Thatch and Stone to explore our curated collection of cast iron radiator racks, shelving solutions and home accessories that celebrate the beauty of traditional craftsmanship.

In an era where fleeting trends often overshadow enduring quality, there's a growing appreciation for homeware that marries timeless design with everyday functionality. As our homes become increasingly multipurpose spaces, the value of well-crafted items that serve practical needs whilst enhancing our surroundings has never been more apparent. Thatch & Stone, a distinguished British brand rooted in craftsmanship and sustainability, offers a carefully curated selection of products that not only serve practical purposes but also elevate the aesthetic of any home.

From the classic charm of ceiling-mounted clothes airers to the robust elegance of traditional fruit presses, these essentials are designed to stand the test of time, both in durability and style. Unlike mass-produced alternatives that follow temporary fashions, these heritage-inspired pieces represent an investment in quality that pays dividends over decades of use. They embody a philosophy that rejects disposable consumerism in favour of thoughtful acquisition of items that truly deserve space in our homes.

The Resurgence of Traditional Home Essentials

The renewed interest in classic home essentials reflects a broader cultural shift towards authenticity and sustainability. Modern homeowners increasingly seek products with provenance and purpose, items that tell stories and connect us to traditional craftsmanship whilst fulfilling contemporary needs. This movement isn't merely nostalgia; it represents a conscious choice to surround ourselves with objects of substance and meaning rather than transient trends.

Environmental consciousness plays a significant role in this renaissance of traditional home goods. As awareness grows about the ecological impact of disposable culture, investing in durable, well-made essentials becomes both a practical and ethical choice. Products built to last generations naturally minimise waste and resource consumption, offering an antidote to the cycle of purchase and disposal that characterises much modern consumption.

The aesthetic appeal of these timeless pieces also contributes significantly to their resurgence. Their honest materials and thoughtful design bring warmth and character to contemporary interiors, softening the sometimes stark minimalism of modern homes. Whether in period properties or new builds, these heritage-inspired elements add depth and personality to living spaces, creating environments that feel both curated and authentic.

1. Ceiling Pulley Clothes Airers: A Sustainable Drying Solution with Victorian Elegance

The ceiling pulley clothes airer is a quintessential British household item, harking back to Victorian times when ingenious domestic solutions were designed to maximise efficiency in the home. These remarkable devices have experienced a significant revival in recent years, as homeowners rediscover their practicality and aesthetic appeal.

Designed to utilise the warm air that naturally rises to the ceiling, these airers offer an energy-efficient alternative to electric dryers, which are notoriously energy-intensive. In fact, a typical tumble dryer accounts for approximately 15% of domestic electricity usage, making traditional airers not only charming but substantially more environmentally friendly. Thatch & Stone's version features cast iron pulleys and sustainably sourced wooden laths, ensuring both strength and eco-friendliness.

The engineering behind these seemingly simple devices deserves appreciation. A well-balanced pulley system allows even heavily laden racks to be raised and lowered with minimal effort. The mechanical advantage provided by the pulley arrangement means that even those with limited physical strength can easily operate these systems. Once hoisted to ceiling height, the clothes benefit from the warmest air in the room, expediting the drying process naturally.

Beyond their primary function, ceiling airers add a touch of vintage elegance to laundry rooms, kitchens, or bathrooms. When not laden with laundry, they create visual interest overhead, drawing the eye upward and adding architectural detail to spaces. Some homeowners even use them creatively for displaying seasonal decorations, dried flowers, or hanging plants when not required for drying clothes.

For properties with limited outdoor space or in the notoriously damp British climate, these airers provide a practical year-round solution for laundry. They eliminate the need for unsightly floor-standing clothes horses that consume valuable living space, instead utilising the often-neglected area above our heads. This clever use of vertical space makes them particularly valuable in compact homes where every square foot matters.

2. Wine & Drinks Bottle Racks: Combining Elegance with Organisation

For wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, proper storage of bottles is essential not just for preservation but for creating an organised and sophisticated home environment. Thatch & Stone's wine and drinks bottle racks offer a stylish solution, crafted with precision to ensure both form and function harmonise perfectly.

Wine storage presents specific requirements that these traditional racks address thoughtfully. Bottles should ideally be stored horizontally to keep corks moist and prevent oxidation, away from direct light and at a consistent temperature. Well-designed racks ensure that bottles rest securely at the optimal angle, preserving the quality of the wine whilst making labels visible for easy selection.

The materials used in traditional bottle racks contribute significantly to their appeal. Hand-forged iron components provide strength and stability whilst offering a visual lightness that more cumbersome storage solutions lack. The slender profiles and considered proportions of these racks allow them to hold substantial collections without dominating a space visually. Some designs incorporate wooden elements that develop a rich patina over time, enhancing their character with age.

These racks serve dual purposes in the home, functioning both as practical storage and as display pieces that showcase one's collection. For connoisseurs with investment-worthy vintages, there's particular satisfaction in housing precious bottles in equally well-crafted containers. The aesthetic appeal of bottled wines and spirits becomes part of the interior design, adding colour and visual texture to dining areas, kitchens, or dedicated wine rooms.

3. Ceiling Hanging Racks: Maximising Vertical Space with Traditional Craftsmanship

In homes where space is at a premium, ceiling hanging racks provide an ingenious storage solution that draws inspiration from historical kitchen design. Thatch & Stone's hanging storage drying racks, inspired by traditional Victorian designs, feature heavy-duty cast iron brackets and sustainable wooden laths that combine robust functionality with period aesthetics.

The principle behind these overhead storage systems is elegant in its simplicity yet transformative in its impact on home organisation. By utilising the often-neglected ceiling space, these racks liberate valuable surface areas and create more breathing room in busy kitchens, utility spaces, and even dining areas. The visual effect of raising items overhead also contributes to a sense of spaciousness that crowded countertops and cabinets inevitably diminish.

These versatile structures serve multiple functions depending on their placement and the household's needs. In kitchens, they provide accessible storage for frequently used pots, pans, and utensils, creating cooking zones that rival professional kitchens for efficiency. The pleasure of reaching up to select exactly the right pan from an artfully arranged overhead display adds a sensory dimension to cooking that closed cupboards simply cannot provide.

Beyond kitchens, these racks adapt beautifully to laundry areas, providing additional drying space for delicate items or those requiring air drying. In dining spaces, they can be used to dramatic effect for displaying heritage copper collections, seasonal decorations, or even suspended lighting arrangements. Their structural integrity ensures they support substantial weight without sagging or becoming unstable.

4. Cast Iron Shelf Brackets: Merging Durability with Timeless Design

Shelving is more than just a storage solution; it's an opportunity to display personality and style whilst providing essential organisation for books, collections, and everyday objects. Thatch & Stone's cast iron shelf brackets embody this philosophy, offering robust support whilst enhancing the room's aesthetic through their intricate patterns and quality construction.

The heritage of cast iron brackets stretches back to Victorian engineering, when advances in metal casting enabled the production of components that combined remarkable strength with decorative detail. Unlike modern pressed-metal alternatives, traditionally produced cast iron brackets feature the substantial weight and textural quality that only true casting can achieve. This heft translates into exceptional load-bearing capacity, allowing shelves to support heavy items like cookbooks, pottery collections, or substantial plants without strain.

Design options range from simple, clean-lined supports to more elaborate Victorian-inspired patterns featuring scrollwork, botanical motifs, or geometric details. This diversity allows homeowners to select brackets that either make a decorative statement or recede quietly into the background, depending on whether the shelves themselves or their contents should command attention.

Whether installed in living rooms, bathrooms, or hallways, these shelving systems serve both functional and decorative purposes, allowing homeowners to showcase their tastes while keeping spaces organised. In kitchens, they provide accessible storage for frequently used items whilst freeing up cabinet space. In bathrooms, they offer practical surfaces for toiletries whilst adding character to potentially clinical spaces. In living areas, they create opportunities for displaying treasured objects, family photographs, or cherished book collections.

5. Traditional Oak & Steel Fruit Press: Embracing Homemade Goodness with Heritage Engineering

In an era of mass production and disconnect from food origins, there's a growing appreciation for homemade and artisanal products. The traditional oak and steel fruit press from Thatch & Stone caters to this sentiment, enabling homeowners to produce their own juices, ciders, and wines using time-honoured methods that connect us to agricultural traditions.

Crafted with a sturdy steel frame and oak components selected for strength and food-safety, these presses are designed for both durability and efficiency. The engineering principles behind these devices have remained largely unchanged for centuries—a testament to their perfect marriage of simplicity and effectiveness. The mechanical advantage provided by the screw mechanism allows for tremendous pressure to be applied with minimal effort, ensuring maximum juice extraction from apples, pears, berries, and other fruits.

Beyond their functional benefits, fruit presses serve as conversation pieces and focal points in kitchens or utility rooms. Their substantial presence and honest materials make them objects of beauty even when not in use. The warm amber tones of oak contrast beautifully with the industrial character of steel components, creating a visual harmony that reflects agricultural heritage.

The seasonal rhythm of using such traditional equipment adds meaning to the home food production cycle. Autumn apple harvests become family occasions centred around the press, creating traditions and memories alongside delicious produce. The satisfaction of transforming garden bounty into bottles of juice or fermenting cider cannot be overstated—it represents self-sufficiency and connection to natural cycles that many find increasingly important in our disconnected modern world.

The True Value of Timeless Home Essentials

The environmental advantages of choosing durable, well-crafted items are significant. In a world increasingly concerned with sustainability, products designed to last for generations naturally minimise waste and resource consumption. The carbon footprint of a quality item used for decades is substantially smaller than that of multiple disposable replacements. Furthermore, the natural materials typically employed in heritage designs—cast iron, sustainable timber, natural fibres—often have less environmental impact than the plastics and composite materials found in many contemporary alternatives.

There's also profound satisfaction in using objects crafted with care and intended for long service. Daily interactions with beautifully made essentials elevate routine tasks, bringing moments of appreciation for craftsmanship into everyday life. The patina that develops on well-used items tells stories of household history, creating connections across generations and adding layers of meaning to home environments.

Thatch & Stone's commitment to quality craftsmanship ensures that each piece is not just a purchase but an investment in enduring style and utility. Their production methods honour traditional techniques whilst incorporating modern standards of durability and finish. This balance between heritage inspiration and contemporary performance creates products that function flawlessly in today's homes whilst carrying echoes of historical domestic wisdom.

An Interview with Thatch & Stone owner - Nirmla Warwood 

We were recently interviewed by Emma Airley, as part of a new Nurture Network & Startup Loan collaboration campaign, ‘Take the Leap’, focusing on inspiring women in business. 

Read on for a preview of the interview with our store owner, Nirmla Warwood, to find out a little more about Thatch & Stone’s journey so far. 

Q: Tell us a little about the ethos behind Thatch&Stone and what you do?
A: Thatch&Stone is a relatively young company. The ethos is to provide eco friendly, energy saving products for around the home and garden that will hopefully prevent tumble drying use & bring back traditional methods of drying clothes.

Q: How did you come to running the business? What’s the history of the business?
A: A colleague of mine bought the company as Cottage Doors Gates & Floors, but unfortunately died soon after due to illness. I was asked to step in to help continue with the business and then the option came up for me to buy all the stock. It seemed like a very good business opportunity to run with. This is where the Startup Loan company came in.

Q: What steps did you take when taking over the business?
A: The biggest change was moving the business. The business was previously based in Leicestershire so the first task was relocating closer to home. We found a perfect location and that’s where it’s been ever since.

The other big change was that we went from four staff originally, to three and then once the pandemic hit it ended up with me working on my own for a period of time.

For all sorts of reasons, with all its negatives, it [the pandemic] gave me chance to focus on the business, and spend time developing it. It worked particularly for me because everyone was at home, they had to be, so people were improving and investing in their properties .

For that short period of time, gardens were immaculate and people were improving their homes. It sort of helped the business take off a little bit really - we were able to provide something people wanted.

Q: What were you doing before? Have you run businesses before?
A: My background has always been sales. I retired in 2019 from running a hairdressing salon with my son. I went straight away into Cottage Doors - started by looking after it and then eventually taking over.

Q: Do you think that experience gave you confidence to do this kind of thing?
A: It was a little bit scary at the beginning. With the pandemic, the whole world was struggling and no one knew what to do or which way to go. The salon was shut so it was a case of … we had to have something to do and I chose to buy a business with the help of Start Up Loans.

Q: How has Thatch & Stone progressed then? Have there been any breakthrough moments?
A: 2020 was very good. 2021, when everybody was going back to work and some kind of normality returned, we didn’t do so well.

The difficult thing about 2022 has been the cost of everything. The cost of shipping I’ve found has gone up so much, as has the cost of raw materials, so I’ve had to look at ways at adapting. We are always constantly looking at ways to introduce new stock - so at the moment I’m exploring new ideas.  

Challenging - is the word I’d use to best describe my journey so far.

Q: Do you have any big plans for the future? What does 2023 look like?
A: I am always looking for new products. So 2023 will be about introducing more eco and energy friendly ideas. We sell internationally already but we would like to have outlets in different countries.

Q: What would your advice be to other people who have the same opportunity?
A: Don’t ever be scared of doing it. At my age, it would be lovely to think I'd like to retire but I'd have to do something and it might as well be this business. I couldn’t retire because there’s too much to do.

Don’t ever give up. Anybody who thinks they don’t have the facilities or ability to do it, just go for it. The Startup Loan Company is the only way I was able to do take on Thatch & Stone.

Don’t ever be frightened. You get a lot of support, mentoring and marketing knowledge through it all. If I ever needed something I know with confidence that I could go back to the startup loan company for support.

Just do it because you never know what you can achieve unless you try.

Click the link to listen to the full episode here.

We’ve been fortunate enough to have had some blue skies, sunshine and even a little bit of warmth over the last couple of weeks … but the spring showers have been quick to dampen early summer spirits - not to mention your socks hung out on the line.

When those skies turn grey unexpectedly, don’t get wet unpegging one item at a time!

Grab 22 individual items, or even 44 socks (paired), in one go by simply unclasping the hook on your peg airer. Ideal for socks, smalls and baby clothes.

Designed to fold down flat, easily storable after use and great for your travels.

Made from responsibly sourced, sustainable bamboo — what isn’t there to love about this airer? 

Order yours today!