After many years looking for a nailbrush that was easy to hold and with bristles that were not too soft or splayed out when used a few times, I discovered the perfect solution. The ‘PoP Up Shop’ in Cowbridge (more to say about this soon) was displaying a range of household items in the window and there it was, a traditional beech wood nailbrush with bristles that meant business.

Inside revealed a cornucopia of items that have stood the test of time, not just practical and functional but now considered stylish and ideal for traditional interior design themes. Ostrich feather dusters, pristine white lemon squeezers, enamel jugs and bowls, pan and brush sets – the list goes on.

There were also examples of larger items such as wrought iron fireside tools, log holders, ladder shelves, folding wooden clothes horses, large rattan laundry baskets and more, statement pieces in themselves or essential accessories for an authentic country home feel.

At the till Lisa gave us a Thank You card which described her business as “an online shop full of practical, beautiful & useful homeware”. We visited the website and found an even wider selection of items, including furniture, all of which bring back memories for some and inspiration to others. Lisa also offers a home styling service and has a holiday cottage in West Wales for rent. You can imagine how that will look.
As for the nailbrush? Perfect!

And now a word from Lisa herself

Video by Stu Legend

Exceptional five/six bedroom residence nestled in the highly sought after Vale Village of St. Hilary. This substantial detached property has been developed over the last 25 years to include; entrance hallway, living room, dining room with French doors, library with bathroom / guest suite, sitting room leading into conservatory, kitchen/breakfast room and utility. Principal bedroom with en-suite bathroom to the ground floor, four further double bedrooms to the first floor and two bathrooms. Manicured south-facing lawned grounds set in approx. one acre surrounded by countryside views; triple garage and large private driveway. Viewing highly recommended to appreciate the peaceful, truly stunning setting.

Guide Price: £1,395,000

Full details available from Watts & Morgan in Cowbridge.

---

Cowbridge, the property hot spot

“One of the top places to live in Britain”

“A trophy town with all the trimmings”

According to the Sunday Times and Zoopla 15.03.2015

View Zoopla’s area guide for useful facts about Cowbridge including average house prices, rents and more.

If you are looking for interior design inspiration take a stroll through Cowbridge to discover statement pieces, large or small, in a number of outlets. Here is a selection starting with a late 19th century doll’s house (above photo), probably French and located at Havard and Havard Antiques in Cowbridge.

Mahogany bowfront chest, possibly German, with finely carved, fluted pilasters and feet. On view at Havard and Havard Antiques, Cowbridge.
Get up close to the grain with your mouse

---

Show stopper or door stopper, this little chappie is sure to steal the limelight when guests arrive. Find more about his pedigree at Havard and Havard Antiques, Cowbridge.

---

Classic caravan for the purists currently sited at W G Davies Newsagents in Cowbridge. Relocate to your own site and relive those wonderful holidays of days gone by with tap dancing seagulls, distant toilets and much, much more.

---

No.39 is a cornucopia of interior design products and ideas to satisfy the most creative of minds. Give your mind enough time to absorb the possibilities at No.39 High Street.

---

Hans Wegner sofa fully recovered in a wool fabric by Foy & Co Interiors, Landow, Cowbridge. Do you have a favourite piece ready for a make over and pride of place?

---

Inspiration for you next project is always on hand at The Bay Tree Cowbridge. Lighten up to create just the right atmosphere for a relaxing dinner.

---

Hang this Sue McDonagh painting in your lounge, sit back and think of those hazy, lazy days of Summer. Her paintings always seem to rekindle pleasant memories. If it hasn’t already been sold you can view it at The Old Wool Barn, Verity’s Court, Cowbridge.

---

If you are seeking floral inspiration for your home then visit Sara Caroline Floral Designs in Cowbridge.
Behind the Town Hall

---

Picture this in your home. Currently nestled in a corner of Havard & Havard Antiques in Cowbridge. Imagine what treasures could be in the other corners.

---

Howard style sofa reupholstered in Russian linen by specialists Foy & Co, based at Llandow just a few miles from Cowbridge.

---

Interior design ideas, services and sources of unique decorations and furnishings. The above sofa was given a new lease of life by Sorrento Upholstery.