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Home
Spotlight On
Beautiful Homes
Meet The Team
Behind the Name
Our Showrooms
Visit Jim Lawrence Website
Made By Us
  • Home
  • Spotlight On
  • Beautiful Homes
  • Meet The Team
  • Behind the Name
  • Our Showrooms
  • Visit Jim Lawrence Website
  • Made By Us
Jim Lawrence Blog - Jim Lawrence Blog
Beautiful Homes

Introducing Dani of The Devon Good Life

You’d be forgiven for stumbling across Dani’s Instagram profile and assuming your eyes were scanning the beaches of South Africa, the vast wildernesses of North America or another far-flung location. But, as her username ‘@the.devon.good.life’ perfectly reveals, the bulk of her beautiful imagery and video content captures life on the Southwest Coast of England. Between renovating a 19th century coastal cottage and pulling on a wetsuit to paddle board with seals, we caught up with Dani to discuss the concept of home and why nature is key to that good life feeling.

Tell us about your move away from city life, what made you take the plunge? 

I had lived in London for coming up to a decade and whilst I loved it for the most part, the city lifestyle had started to wane just before Covid hit. I’d always grown up in a countryside setting and I was craving space, nature and a slower pace of life. I was also desperate to make a home. With soaring property prices in the city, I’d had years of moving from one rented room to the next. I think city life can cause an element of instability, some people thrive from that kind of challenge, but not me. When the pandemic changed the ways of working, I was suddenly able to do my job remotely and it was a chance to make a completely different lifestyle change that I knew I couldn’t pass up. So began the quest of finding a country cottage to renovate, which had always been a dream of mine to do.

Why Devon? 

Devon has always been a special place for me, it’s where I was born and where my family are from. The thing I love most is just the variety that this one county brings, I feel more than any other. I can start my day hiking the tors on Dartmoor National Park and finish my day with a sunset at one of our many beautiful beaches. There’s so much wildlife and marine life, and because it’s so big there’s always new places to explore. Now I’m here, I realise there are more and more younger people moving here, looking for this way of life, so it’s lovely to be surrounded by such like-minded people.

Working for a travel company and documenting new locations for your Instagram page means you are often on the move! How do you ensure your home is a sanctuary that you always look forward to coming back to? 

As we are mid-renovation that’s an interesting question because sometimes it’s hard to look past the mountain of jobs still to do which can be a bit overwhelming. I’m proud of what we have achieved so far though, doing the majority of work ourselves which does give a real sense of satisfaction at the end of the day. For me, it’s about making my home as light and spacious as possible using neutral colours, and then utilising as much natural texture as possible; woods, limestone, and linens for example, to make it cosy and warm. Nature and exploring new places is soul food for me, so if the inside of my home can remind me of what’s outside beyond it then that gives me a lot of joy.

Do you know much about the history of the cottage?

I believe it dates to around 1890 and over the years has had many alterations. In the last two decades, I understand the previous owner of next door was in some financial difficulty, so kept selling off sections of his house and garden to the previous owners of my cottage. My cottage looks quite small from outside first impressions, so I do enjoy seeing people’s reactions when they come in and the layout is always different to what they expect.

What has been your most unexpected discovery when getting stuck into the DIY side of things?

This is my first proper renovation project and so far, I’m thankful that we haven’t had any disaster discoveries like you see on all the renovation programmes. We managed to reveal what I think has turned out to be a beautiful fireplace which was always a hope of mine. We also paint stripped all our wooden doors and they ended up being so beautifully rustic that they’re now a favourite feature of the house. Over the years, some of the character has been removed so my aim is to really add that back in.

We are here to talk interiors, but what is it about being outside that you find so inspiring? 

For me, the outdoors and creativity go hand in hand now. Shortly after moving to Devon, I picked up my camera and finally felt like I had reason to use it every day so it’s lovely that one passion has completely sparked another. I get so much excitement from exploring somewhere new and seeing places for the first time, but once you move somewhere, there are less and less new places to find. For me, it’s inspiring because whether it’s the change in seasons, or that one sunset is always different to the next, the outdoors can give you a totally different experience, whether somewhere new or old. Time in nature is humbling, it provides me with a mental reset and a perspective on what’s important.

Your interior style appears to focus on pared-back natural materials. Does your love of nature impact the design choices you make?

Oh absolutely! After living in a city, I wanted a lifestyle that meant I had nature on my doorstep. For me, your home absolutely contributes to that lifestyle, and reflects your personality so for me it all goes hand in hand.

Where else do you seek ideas for the home?

Instagram and Pinterest are firm favourites, the ease at which you can consume and save inspiration is something I love. But I also find I get really inspired when I travel, especially places like Canada, the USA, and Europe. I’ve never been to Australia, but I know I would LOVE the interiors over there. That’s where interior coffee table books are also such a favourite of mine as there is often inspiration from all over the world. A couple of my favourites are the Surf Shack series by Nina Freudenberger and Still: The Slow Home by Natalie Walton.

Do you have any advice for those seeking out their first property?

Location is everything. It’s tempting to move for a house, but in my opinion it’s not enough. Loving where you live is so important, and you can change pretty much everything about a house, but not where’s located. If you’re moving to a completely new area like I did, I would really recommend renting before buying. By doing that, you can see what different areas are like at different times of year, how different locations and amenities would impact your lifestyle and in doing so, save yourself a lot of time, stress, and money, by having to move again.

Finally, a few quick-fire questions…

In three words, what does ‘the good life’ mean to you?

Nature, Contentment, Home. Or…work life balance!

Where’s next on the list to visit? 

Hiking in the Italian Dolomites or Norway.

What’s the staple homeware piece that every house needs? 

A comfy, stylish sofa!

Your favourite Jim Lawrence product?

It’s got to be the Club Wall Light; I just love them.

Follow Dani’s journey on Instagram (@the.devon.good.life) for a feast of beautiful travel and home photography. To stay up to date with Jim Lawrence, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Browse our website to see all of our hand forged and finished lighting and homeware.

SHOP DANI’S LOOK

The Club Wall Light, The Club Plug-in Wall Light

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Welcome to the Jim Lawrence Style Journal.

We are a British interiors company creating beautiful lighting, ironwork and home furnishings from our Suffolk workshop.

This is where we share ideas that we love, show sneak peeks behind the scenes of our brand and offer a unique insight into classic design.

jimlawrencemade

Jim Lawrence Lighting & Home
Designed to bring both style and function to areas Designed to bring both style and function to areas that need task lighting, our range of articulated designs are easily adjustable with a simple tweak of their elegant arm, providing focused light right where you need it.⁠
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Our kitchen wall lights come in a range of painted colours, brass, copper tones, and cool metallic finishes to suit every style of home. To explore the full extent of our collection, tap this image of our Articulated Club Wall Light styled by @jessicamjmurray.
Introducing our new Hundon bathroom light. ⁠ ⁠ Introducing our new Hundon bathroom light. ⁠
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The hand-blown opal glass shade is made by our partners at Suffolk Glass, and rests on an antiqued brass bracket with a curved plate. Designed to enhance the glow and even distribution of light, this art deco look creates a tranquil setting, perfect for achieving an intimate and relaxing ambience in the bathroom. ⁠
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Tap the images via the link in our bio to shop the look.⁠
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Our signature antiqued brass with its rumbled pati Our signature antiqued brass with its rumbled patina is perfect for emphasising the warm glow of candlelight, a crackling fire and the soft pools of light cast by table and floor lamps, adding to a feeling of warmth and sanctuary.⁠
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We love working with this honest natural metal because it is a living finish, elevating any room, complementing building materials and pairing with all colours so that though trends may come and go, the timeless quality of brass endures.⁠
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“Autumn is a time to hunker down and embrace a sense of comfort,” says Sheena Lawrence, Co-Founder and Director at Jim Lawrence. “Creating that cosy, calming atmosphere is all about layering light using a blend of wall lights, lamps, and candlelight to soften the room as the evenings draw in.”⁠
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Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks with this sentiment at their heart 🍂⁠
Whether signalling a vacant room to the travel wea Whether signalling a vacant room to the travel weary, used to communicate between ships, or to signal railroad operations, lanterns have always been a symbol of connection: sending a message of comfort in the form of light across the night.⁠
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Perfectly placed in houses that lean into a more period style, this traditional look still triumphs today, like our Bonham lantern in this beautiful character property, a former Grocer's in Lewes, shot by @claire.waddell for @inigo.house. ⁠
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To get the look or explore our full collection of lanterns, tap this image via the link in our bio.
Our signature antiqued brass with its rumbled pati Our signature antiqued brass with its rumbled patina is perfect for emphasising the warm glow of candlelight, a crackling fire and the soft pools of light cast by table and floor lamps, adding to a feeling of warmth and sanctuary.⁠
⁠
We love working with this honest natural metal because it is a living finish, elevating any room, complementing building materials and pairing with all colours so that though trends may come and go, the timeless quality of brass endures.⁠
⁠
"Autumn is a time to hunker down and embrace a sense of comfort,” says Sheena Lawrence, Co-Founder and Director at Jim Lawrence. “Creating that cosy, calming atmosphere is all about layering light using a blend of wall lights, lamps, and candlelight to soften the room as the evenings draw in."⁠
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Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks with this sentiment at their heart 🍂⁠
Transform your doorways into a feature you can adm Transform your doorways into a feature you can admire up close with our vast collection of interior and exterior door furniture. Made from solid brass or forged iron, each piece is crafted by expert hands, ensuring that you can feel the quality when they are held in yours.⁠
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Tap the link in our bio to explore all of our door handles and accessories 🚪⁠
Make a wreath with us! Book a spot on our wreath m Make a wreath with us! Book a spot on our wreath making workshop on Thursday 11th December and join us at the Jim Lawrence Walcot Street showroom in Bath.⁠
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Led by florist Jade from Cottontail Flowers, you will design and decorate your own luxurious wreath to take home.⁠
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Places are £85 per person and includes:⁠
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-Delicious refreshments of mince pies and prosecco.⁠
-A curated Jim Lawrence gift bag with thoughtful take-home pieces.⁠
-£10 discount voucher to spend in the showroom on the day.⁠
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Tap the tickets button via the link in our bio to buy your ticket today 🍃
We love plug-in lights because they offer one of t We love plug-in lights because they offer one of the easiest and most effective ways to instantly add layers of light to any room. ⁠
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Whether you're creating a cosy atmosphere for a dinner party in the kitchen or brightening up a study or craft room, plug-ins are a simple, stylish solution. They're especially ideal for spaces without built-in wiring - like lofts, landings, and dim corners - or for renters and students who can’t make permanent changes but still need that extra bit of light.⁠
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Tap this image of our Clay Carrick via the link in our bio to shop plug-ins for every room of the house.
Based in Huon Valley, Tasmania, @eliskasharp is a Based in Huon Valley, Tasmania, @eliskasharp is a creative photographer capturing beautiful places, including the four walls of her own home, 'Glenlossie'. ⁠
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We were delighted to spot some of our favourite pieces styled throughout Eliska’s property, each one captured with her discerning eye and thoughtful composition. Both in our signature antiqued brass, the Hurricane Candle Sconce and the popular Carrick plug-in bring further warmth to these lovely layered spaces.⁠
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Made with English craftsmanship, but perfectly at home in interiors of all kinds around the world, our designs can be adapted for many needs. Please do get in touch with us directly with any enquiries. Discover more at jim-lawrence.co.uk.
Autumn is the season for gathering. With the eveni Autumn is the season for gathering. With the evenings drawing in, it’s a time to savour shared meals over the slow burn of candlelight and to soak up the comfort of good company.

Nowhere in the home captures the spirit of the season more than the dining table, and considered tablescaping and lighting design makes these moments even more memorable. With foraged foliage, gently rustic linens, and the warm patina of antiqued brass, you can infuse the beauty of autumn into the everyday.

Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks 🍂
Autumn is the season for gathering. With the eveni Autumn is the season for gathering. With the evenings drawing in, it’s a time to savour shared meals over the slow burn of candlelight and to soak up the comfort of good company.⁠
⁠
Nowhere in the home captures the spirit of the season more than the dining table, and considered tablescaping and lighting design makes these moments even more memorable. With foraged foliage, gently rustic linens, and the warm patina of antiqued brass, you can infuse the beauty of autumn into the everyday.⁠
⁠
Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks 🍂⁠
Book a spot on our first wreath making workshop on Book a spot on our first wreath making workshop on Sunday 7th December and join us at the Jim Lawrence Suffolk showroom in Hadleigh. 

Led by florist Amy from The Flower Shop at Kersey Mill, you will design and decorate your own luxurious wreath to take home.

Places are £85 per person for a group of up to 12 people and includes:

-Delicious refreshments of mince pies and prosecco.
-A curated Jim Lawrence gift bag with thoughtful take-home pieces.
-£10 discount voucher to spend in the showroom on the day.

Tap the tickets button via the link in our bio to buy your ticket today 🍃
Our fireside collection is crafted in Suffolk usin Our fireside collection is crafted in Suffolk using traditional ironwork techniques: simple, elegant, and made to last.⁠
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Fire tongs offer a refined way to safely and effortlessly tend your fire, combining modern country style with practical function. The Elmsett & Portland Fire Tongs are crafted from solid steel and finished in durable matt black to match your other Jim Lawrence home accessories.⁠
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Explore our fire place accessories and companion tools by visiting jim-lawrence.co.uk
Whether it’s a favourite armchair or a quiet cor Whether it’s a favourite armchair or a quiet corner of the sofa, having a comfortable nook at home is an autumn–winter essential.⁠
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This season, enjoy the gentle flicker of candlelight as the evenings settle in, curled beneath the comforting weight of a woollen throw.⁠
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No matter how you style your space, a scented candle is the finishing touch that brings it all together. We’ve chosen the Charles Farris Scented Candle in 'Elizabeth' to complete this cosy corner. Its blend of orange blossom, jasmine, bergamot, and mulberries evokes the richness and fruitfulness of the season.⁠
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Shop the full look (and scent) by tapping the Autumn Reflections button in our bio 🍂
As night falls, it's a comfort coming home to an i As night falls, it's a comfort coming home to an inviting glow from the house. With us, you'll find the right outdoor lighting to make that welcome even warmer.⁠
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Handcrafted from antiqued brass with a hand-blown glass shade and industrial-style cage, our bestselling Wall Mounted Ship's Light is inspired by vintage deck lights once found on ocean liners.⁠
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Perfect for porches, gardens, and outbuildings, this timeless design is carefully crafted in our Suffolk workshops. Like all our lights, it's made with an eye for detail and quality that lasts. ⁠
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Explore more outdoor lighting options at jim-lawrence.co.uk.
Create a snug retreat for darker mornings and long Create a snug retreat for darker mornings and longer evenings with rich textures, gentle lighting, and thoughtful details.⁠

We lean to warmer russets within our accessories this season, reaching for Burnt Orange velvet for its depth of colour and richness, and contrasting it with Mole for a soothing soft grey embrace that brings balance.

Paired with the natural softness of wool and relaxed weave of linen, the setting creates a modern rustic look that feels both grounded and inspiring.

From scented beeswax candles, handblown glass vases, and the soothing tones of beeswax and matt black, each piece brings texture and character to the home, inviting you to slow down, settle in, and enjoy the wind-down to winter.

Tap the ‘Autumn reflections’ button via the link in our bio to shop three new seasonal looks 🍂
Our bestselling glass domed shades are now availab Our bestselling glass domed shades are now available with Matt Black fittings. ⁠
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Available in two sizes - the Chalford and Walcot - this ceiling light can be hung in a row above an island, or suspended solitarily as a statement piece. Both are supplied with our Fordham Ceiling Rose and a matching flex, and the Chalford with a discreet chain to support the weight of the larger shade.⁠
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Because we like to help you achieve your perfect look, whilst each design comes with a fixed flex length, these can be easily shortened on installation. Should you require a longer drop, our pendant length guide is available on the relevant product pages, offering clear instructions for customising the length to your needs.⁠
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Visit jim-lawrence.co.uk to shop each look.⁠
For many years now we have teamed up with @lovatmi For many years now we have teamed up with @lovatmill, based in the Scottish Border town of Hawick and known as the Home of Tweed; where the artisan craftsmen follow in the footsteps of generations of Tweed makers to create beautiful contemporary fabrics.⁠
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Taking inspiration from the rich colours of the surrounding countryside, Lovat Mill design and weave wool of the highest quality. Their fabrics incorporate between five and forty individual colours to produce a range of herringbones and checks that will add subtle reflections of the natural world to your home interior.⁠
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Our throws from Lovat Mill are cosy additions to your beds, sofas, and armchairs, bringing true heritage style to your scheme in a choice of beautiful colours. Discover more at jim-lawrence.co.uk
Such is the popularity of our Carrick wall light t Such is the popularity of our Carrick wall light that we have designed a pendant version to suspend alongside them. This striking three-armed ceiling pendant channels a mid-century look that that is simple enough to suit most spaces, with clean structured lines and a sculptural look. ⁠
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Tap this image via the link in our bio to browse every iteration of this bestselling design, from plug-ins, pendants, and pull-cords.⁠
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Kitchens hold the rhythm of daily life, and good l Kitchens hold the rhythm of daily life, and good lighting helps to shape how this space feels morning to night. Glass lighting diffuses light in this essential area, creating a bright and open feel which is ideal for busy, multifunctional spaces. Clear, frosted, or textured glass offers a timeless look that complements both classic and contemporary kitchen design while enhancing natural light.⁠
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If you love the look of the Orla pendant (as chosen here by @baile_na_leice) but want to explore more options, tap these images via the link in our bio to browse our full collection of handblown glass pendant lighting.
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