Set in the rolling countryside of South Somerset, ‘Vikings’ actor and lifestyle creator Gee Hirst has been lovingly restoring a 200-year-old cottage. Over the past year, she and her husband, Elliot, have brought back the character of the home with a blend of traditional farmhouse charm and contemporary influences.
At the heart of the project lies a floor that feels as though it has always belonged, Dijon Tumbled Limestone, chosen for its muted tones and timeless flagstone character, perfectly suited to life in a rural cottage
The kitchen was the first room to take shape and also where most of the couple’s budget went. “We wanted a statement kitchen that felt special, but still in keeping with the history of the house,” Gee explains.
Dijon Tumbled Limestone was laid before any cabinetry or fittings, becoming the foundation of the scheme. For several months the stone stood alone, instantly transforming the room and setting the tone for the rest of the renovation.
“We always imagined flagstones running through the cottage, as if they had been there from the very beginning,” Gee says. “With the Dijon limestone, we’ve achieved exactly that.”
Beyond the kitchen, the couple have continued to create spaces with personality and meaning. A library, complete with a hidden coffee cupboard, has become a favourite spot.
Antique finds sit alongside sentimental pieces, such as a wedding gift painting by Gee’s aunt and a Soho Home marble coffee table gifted by her parents. Even an old leather armchair from a market has found a place, bringing texture and character to the room.
Upstairs, the bathroom carries the same balance of traditional and contemporary design. Tangier Sage tiles bring a gentle wash of green to the en-suite, pairing effortlessly with the Dijon Tumbled Limestone used elsewhere in the home. “Green is one of my favourite colours,” says Gee. “The sage felt calm, timeless and easy to live with every day.”
Like many renovation journeys, the process hasn’t been without its challenges. “Living amongst the dust and painting ourselves was the hardest part,” Gee admits. “We’ve decided that next time we’ll definitely get help with that.” Yet, despite the disruption, the couple are delighted with what they’ve created. A home full of warmth, comfort and character, grounded by a stone floor they know will last a lifetime.
“Flooring is so essential,” Gee reflects. “It was the first decision we made, and it changed the house completely. We can’t imagine living without our stone floors now.”
