Welcome Home

Interior designer Tracey Hewitt is the latest Southsea resident to throw open the doors for our Welcome Home feature – and her beautiful abode does not disappoint, Kate Thompson reports. 

Photos: Charlotte Griffiths

Having been responsible for styling some of the most delightful homes in Southsea over the past 15 years, the opportunity to check out Tracey Hewitt’s own property was just too tempting.

As one of the interior designers based at Design House Southsea in Marmion Road, Tracey admits she has really enjoyed helping her clients to create rooms that reflect their personality and play to the strengths of their property.

Stepping over the threshold, it’s clear Tracey and husband Gordon have really enjoyed creating a home for their sons Joshua,9, and Thomas,8.

 

 

 

The blue/green palette they have used throughout calms and caresses. Walls are brought to life with the addition of striking artworks – many of which have been created by local street artists.

“We moved into this house 10 years ago. I was pregnant with Josh, but that didn’t stop me getting started on the hall, stairs, and landings.

“And Josh was only a month old when I stripped and painted the living room. Since then I’ve decorated pretty much every room, and now we’ve come full circle, and I’ve started putting wallpaper up in the top of the house,” enthused Tracey.

A textile designer by training, Tracey admitted she just loves to see the latest fabrics and items coming into Design House Southsea – and many have ended up in her own home. “I love my job, and I am constantly changing and adding items to my own home – it’s my job but at home it is my hobby as well.

“I get inspired by other people’s homes, and I’ve been lucky enough to work in some beautiful homes over the years.

“I love nothing more than re-purposing something that we already have – our kitchen chairs have been repainted so many times – and upcycling charity shop finds,” she said.

A top tip from Tracey for anyone considering changing their homes around or re-decorating, is to photograph your room as it adds a different perspective.

When asked to declare which is her favourite room, Tracey opts for the master bedroom – and it is easy to see why. She has created an oasis of calm that works perfectly with the scale of the room and the light that pours in.

But there are other details she likes too. In the study on the top floor, the main wall is covered in a daring Cole and Sons panel from their geometrics range. “It was too large for the wall and I was concerned about having to cut it.

“But I realised I could use what was left over in the hallway, and I’m really pleased with how it worked out,” she confided. Artwork by My Dog Sighs, LosDave, M-one, Fark Fk and Roo Abrook makes a statement, and Tracey has also been encouraging her clients to consider local artists.

“We really enjoy collecting and commissioning local artists. It’s important to support our local talent.

“Southsea is such a great place to live, and part of what makes it so wonderful is our independent shops – I am a real champion for them, and urge everyone to use them,” she added.

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Posted in: Articles, Home & Garden