The couple’s contemporary corner sofa from Dwell is perfect for relaxing after a long day, while a Benita rug and aubergine and taupe throws from Bronte and Kelly Hoppen respectively cosy up their comfortable space. Recessed shelves offer a nod to the local area, displaying shells and corals found locally by divers alongside books on the subject. The copper pendant lamp is by Lyco
With Kerry and her partner Peter busy running his family’s fish and chip shop and ice cream parlour, Giacopazzi’s, as well as Peter’s own bistro and bar, Oblò, it made sense for them to move into the apartment upstairs so they could be close to both businesses. The three-bedroom property had been the family home for several generations, before being rented out to restaurant staff in recent years, and they knew it had the potential to be the perfect launch pad for their busy lives. Although, with two businesses to run the couple had very little time to take on a big renovation project, which is exactly what they found themselves doing. ‘Because the apartment had been rented out when we took it over, it was in quite poor condition and badly in need of updating,’ explains Kerry. With dark wooden veneer, orange pine wall panelling and garish vinyl wallpaper, she admits it was a major undertaking which proved quite stressful at times, but it helped that all three properties were located in one block on Eyemouth’s picturesque harbour. ‘It was also made bearable by the fact we grew up in the area and so we knew all the local tradesmen well and everyone provided us with a really great service,’ she says. ‘We were able to rely on the services of brilliant local interior designer, Elina Helenius. Her company, Decodence, provided us with some beautiful pieces of furniture and wallcoverings at great prices. We had strong ideas of our own, especially Peter who knows what he likes, so we didn’t leave all the design to her but she guided us in many of our choices.’