Retreats for the Soul

I dream of having a retreat at the bottom of my garden, or the ultimate – a holiday home of our very own to escape to even though I am very lucky to have a holiday home on wheels: our beautiful caravan Agatha. Over the years I’ve added texture and soft furnishings, taken away the utilitarian feel that modern day vans have and given it a natural twist with lots of linen, vintage bedsheets turned into rolled blinds, jute rugs and enamel crockery a big stainless steel kettle, Kilner jar lights and lots of cushions to name but a few improvements. I don’t have a garden room as my home is a little small but I do have a well loved garden that I can potter in to my hearts content, walking out from my living room into this space to sit in the morning sun with a coffee is a joy.

Just because I don’t have a unique separate dwelling to hideaway doesn’t mean I can’t indulge in this beautiful book and imagine what it would be like to own such a haven. Retreats for the Soul published by Ryland Peters & Small is a lovely glimpse into the lives of those who do own such spaces, an inspiring publication if you are lucky enough to be embarking on a similar adventure, giving you all the guidance and interior know how to create your very own retreat.

Author Sara Bird and photographer Dan Duchers of the CONTENTed Nest guide you through each chapter revealing the essential elements of a soulful hideaway from which building materials to use up to the fun part of adding the decorative details. Along the way Sara provides inspiration for creating your very own place to escape to enjoy your favourite past times, for rest, relaxation and daydreaming either with your family or solo. Throughout the book you get to explore 15 remarkable retreats in three chapters Close to Home, On the Water and In the Wild. These unique spaces range from a fishing lodge to a circus wagon, a summer house to a narrow boat. Each one so very different from the next but one thing in common tying them all together a peaceful space to nest, nurture and recharge.

With thanks to Ryland Peters & Small for Retreats for the Soul by Sara Bird & Dan Duchars