Surrey Homes | SH62 | December 2019 | Guide to Christmas supplement inside

Above left: A bespoke boot and shoe rack, designed by Toby clearly demands attention
from any passing parent who has ever yelled ‘boots!’ on a rainy day
to be found telling various contractors where this wall
or that socket was going.” This skill set, absorbed by
osmosis, has meant that Toby has a solid understanding
of buildings and a natural ability to transform tired and
perhaps tricksy interiors into desirable living spaces.
Stepping into the house via the old stable yard, I am
struck by a sudden pang of storage envy. Facing the
back door, panelled doors stow all manner of outdoor
paraphernalia, and a bespoke shoe and boot rack organises
all footwear. A bench with further storage, provides an
essential seat for the putting on and taking off of Wellies.
Toby explains that renovating houses in London has
taught him the useful discipline of using every centimetre
when designing a room. “I don’t like wasting space.”
Toby and Megan kept the kitchen in its original
position resisting the temptation to knock
through into what is now their dining room.
“The main reason was the dining room fireplace,”
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