"Interior design has always been a huge interest of mine"

Janie, owner of Bluecoats – Goudhurst, Kent | Sleeps 4

Janie's career to date has been varied, starting in the city as a broker and then swapping this for an interior design role in Chelsea Harbour. In between, she had a family, renovated 2 London homes and loved the challenge of renovating her current home and stables.

When they moved to Kent, Janie and her family found their perfect house in Goudhurst, Kent - an enchanting quintessentially ‘English’ village with duck pond, village green and a good range of shops and pubs. There was much work to be done in the main house so they renovated the stables first and lived in it whilst they were refurbishing the main house. She recalls how much they enjoyed living in the stables because of its warm and cosy feel. Once they moved into the main house, Janie decided to start to holiday let the stables.

She is now in her 4th year of holiday letting and although the cottage is very close to her house, she purposely designed the windows to ensure that both the guests and the family have their privacy. With her sense of style, the cottage is beautifully presented and in its idyllic location is a popular choice for guests. As she says ‘ I tried to make it look nice without it looking over-cluttered to give it a bit more of a homely feel; a home from home. So they feel comfortable and will treat the property with respect’

Janie is a ‘very hands’ on owner. She makes a point of welcoming all her guests herself and showing them around the cottage so they understand how everything works, and its quirks. Fresh flowers for every guest is a must, and she encourages them to pick flowers from her garden in the summer, particularly if they are staying for an extended period. She works alongside her cleaner to ensure the cottage is just so and if she is out will pop over and check the cottage prior to the guests' arrival. All the guests are given her mobile number and Janie encourages them to knock on her door or call her, whatever the hour, if they need anything.

She believes this attention to detail is really important and whilst she is not attempting to be a boutique hotel, she does want to present an immaculate cosy home with good quality linen and a really well-equipped kitchen. She often leaves fresh local produce in the fridge and a detailed list of the local shops and restaurants with her recommendations. Local maps and places to visit are also in abundance adding to the feel that Janie has thought of everything.

No wonder that her charming cottage is a best seller as everything has been so carefully tailored to the guests and their needs - and it shows.