Lighting the Way
As we head into the shortest day of the year with long dark evenings light becomes both necessary and important. Whilst we have LED lights our forebears found their way by candlelight and lanterns. Epitomised by William Holman Hunt’s painting “The Light of The World” the lantern is synonymous with Christmas. Horse drawn carriages were lit by brass carriage lights similar to lanterns and are now reproduced as outdoor lights on many houses. Whilst furnished with bright sensor fed Led lights the nod to the past is not unnoticed.
Rooms filled by candlelight and the glow of a real log fire still evoke memories of times past and craved by many hoping to recreate the simpler country life. Currently energy prices are soaring- life is changing with a distinct wish to reclaim a life with outdoor space. Integrating the benefits of the fast world of technology linking the world remotely is great but somewhat artificial. Retrieving some elements of simpler things has to be a balance that is good for the health and the planet -a very important current need to ensure future generations see a balance in life.
I am constantly being asked by city dwellers to find a magical, rural (but not isolated) property where there is a community. Many retain city connections for work using technology to stay in touch. Devon still retains a sense of reality long gone in cities. With only so many country houses the demand is outstripping supply and pushing prices disproportionally. As life post pandemic calms values will stabilise, some will return to city life and others will embrace a new found rural lifestyle. A new era!
Devon Christmas in the country:
Curtisknowle Cottage – a hamlet not too far from Totnes. A charming cosy stone three bedroom cottage in a tucked away corner with generous garden and a garage. The perfect holiday antidote retreat: Marchand and Petit 01803 847979.
Brimptsmead House, Dartmeet. For those with a big family this amazing property sits above the East and West Dart with fishing rights and direct access to the Moor for after lunch walks! Built as a hunting lodge in 1906 it has been meticulously restored by the current owners over many years. The impressive 6 bedroom house has extensive reception space including a ballroom for that New Year’s Eve dance! With two cottages for additional guests and over nine acres there is plenty of space for a great family Christmas. Knight Frank 01392 423111
The modern world moves apace and its easy to forget the simple pleasures. Whilst not wishing to rely just on lanterns and candle light remembering the value of home at Christmas will never change – “It’s all about coming home.”