Country Calm Meets Coastal Cool: A Tour of Tyddyn Llwydyn
As part of our exploration into what makes a great summer stay we caught up with interior designer, Elle Grime. Elle is the genius behind the stunning ex-farmhouse turned countryside retreat: Tyddyn Llwydyn. A wedding and events planner turned interior designer and Another Coast business owner, this spectacular space was her first project when she moved from the Cornwall coast to the Llŷn Peninsula and she certainly made her mark. Since her move, Elle’s designed many homes in her signature modern rustic/contemporary coastal style.
We caught up with her looking after some kittens at her parents’ house and chatted all things interiors over a cuppa.
Hi Elle, let’s talk about Tyddyn Llwydyn – can you tell us about the house?
Once a large farm and even a plas (hall or mansion) at one point in its history, Tyddyn Llwydyn loosely translates as Grey Homestead – a humble name that doesn’t necessarily suit it now. The old farmhouse, adjacent barns and outbuildings have been converted to create the impressive house as you see it now. My job was to overhaul the interiors, inject some style and get it prepped for families, big groups and retreats to enjoy. All in all, we had just six months for this project. A tight turnaround sponsored by some all-nighters!
It’s a stunning property – how would you describe the style of the house?
The whole essence of the building is a blend of old and new, so we wanted to capture that in the interiors style. I’d say it’s Scandi meets New England farmhouse. A minimal colour palette you’d associate with that clean Scandinavian style, layered up with mismatched furniture and rustic touches, pulling in the stunning setting of a countryside retreat by the sea. Someone once said it reminded them of a pale and interesting Soho Farmhouse!
I wanted to create somewhere that came straight out of the pages of Ideal Home, but which still had that warmth and feel of indulgence that you want when you go on holiday. I hope it offers guests the chance to stay somewhere aspirational without the unpersonal vibe of a show home.
When designing, what is your process?
I always start by asking the client for words on how they want the space to make people feel – relaxed, inspired, indulgent, and so on. We then create brand personalities to capture who we’re designing for, whether it be couples on a romantic getaway, gangs of friends celebrating a milestone or active families.
Once we’ve established who, we think about what they need right down to crockery and glassware. For example, at Tyddyn Llwydyn it was essential for us to cater to big groups. This meant that we included quality cookware for family feasts, plenty of glassware and little private pockets for those wanting a quiet minute from the group. It’s always about asking – how do we enrich their stay?
It’s also important to take the location into account. The house is fairly secluded. All you can hear is birdsong and nature. This lends itself to those looking to detox from modern life and relax – a feeling that dictates everything from colours to fabrics and accessories.
What is your favourite feature of the house?
I think one of the wow rooms is the kitchen. Believe it or not, it used to be a tumbling down barn and is now very much the hub of the house. I knew people would naturally gather in this space so making it a really sociable area for entertaining was key. I always say if that kitchen island could talk it would have some great stories!
The Dairy Barn conversion is something I’m really proud of. We created a games room come cinema screen come parents’ escape! It’s got an outdoor kitchen, BBQ, gym, and pool table. It’s a bit of a love letter to the old farmhouse as we’ve used several reclaimed items. My favourite? The bar! We created a funky bar hatch from an original crittall door, clad the bar in tin and used old floorboards to make the kitchen and bar cupboard doors.
Are there any unexpected features guests should look out for?
The house is a bit of a warren as it was originally various different buildings that have now been connected by three staircases. This does mean it works really well for big groups as it offers togetherness whilst still having spaces for a little bit of privacy and quiet.
In the family bedroom there’s a door that used to be a hatch to throw hay bails out of when the building was a barn, and we’ve converted it into a lovely Juliet balcony. The pink bath is always a little unexpected and is another original feature we updated. You just can’t beat an indulgent bath on holiday!
Am I right in thinking you used almost exclusively Welsh and UK-sourced materials and fittings? Why did you decide to do that?
That’s right. Not only did we want to be as ethical and sustainability conscious as possible, it just felt right for the house. It’s a spot that is wholly grounded in its surroundings, so using, where possible, Welsh or failing that, UK-based suppliers was really important. For example, all the paint was from Little Greene, which is manufactured in North Wales, the carpets were created by a British company, and the entire workforce was made up of local suppliers.
The house is tucked away on the Llŷn Peninsula, can you tell us a little bit about the area?
I might be biased but there’s something so magical about the Llŷn Peninsula. The house, although secluded, is really central so hop in the car and you’ll hit the coast in 5-10 minutes no matter the direction. Whether you’re looking for beaches to explore, coastal paths to meander along, great shopping, fabulous restaurants, watersports or golf courses, there’s something for everyone!
What do you think people can expect from a Boltholes & Hideaways home?
A slice of style in some gorgeous locations. I like the fact that all their homes are a little bit quirky but still well-equipped and comfortable.
Looking to book your own slice of seclusion at Tyddyn Llwydyn? Find out more about the house here.
