Tucked away in the rolling Suffolk countryside, just over two hours from London, Paradise Farm is exactly that – a bucolic slice of heaven. It’s the kind of place that feels special the moment you arrive, as if the landscape itself is letting out a restorative sigh. For Gem and her family, this feeling was instant.
Gem Boner shows us around her gorgeous countryside retreat
“We bought the house and land in August 2023,” she tells me. “Our goal was to find somewhere that was still commutable to London, so we began by searching for properties just over two hours’ drive away. This was one of the first places we viewed, and we just knew it was meant to be. From the moment we saw it, we could feel the potential and the unique energy of the property – it was clear we had to make it ours.”
That kind of gut feeling is rare, but at Paradise Farm, it makes perfect sense. The property unfolds before you like a story waiting to be told – historic buildings, wide open skies, and lush surroundings that speak for themselves. “What made us fall in love with the property was the instant impact it had when we drove through the gates,” Gem explains. “There’s a very special feeling as you enter, something you can’t quite describe but immediately feel.” Even a rain-soaked first viewing couldn’t dampen the magic.
The farm’s transformation into Restaries – a destination designed for relaxation, reconnection, and good old-fashioned downtime – has been a considered one, shaped by Gem’s deep respect for the land and a vision of what ‘home’ should be. “Home is somewhere to relax, escape, and bring up family,” she reflects. “We love hosting, so we always bear this in mind when making any decisions.”
That sense of gathering and shared experience is built into the very fabric of the place. I wonder what the main design goal was when thinking about interiors. “We wanted to create a warm and inviting communal space where people could gather and feel at home,” Gem explains. “The kitchen, lounge, and dining area are the heart of the space, the hub where everything happens. We wanted the colours to be soothing and good for the soul, so we turned to Mother Nature’s colour palette for inspiration. The idea was to create an environment that feels calm, relaxed, and connected to the natural world around it – something that invites conversation, relaxation, and shared moments.” The result? A space that feels calm, relaxed, and intrinsically connected to its surroundings – and that connection to nature runs through every design choice. “The land gives you so much inspiration, it just had to be from that,” Gem says of her colour choices. It’s an approach that feels refreshingly instinctive, and the interiors reflect this beautifully – earthy hues, natural materials, and a sense of considered simplicity that allows the countryside to play the starring role. “It was important to connect the interiors with the surrounding landscape,” she says. “We wanted to show personality and create a space that feels unique, but also be respectful of the land and its heritage.” One of Gem’s favourite spots in the property is the lounge. “Sitting on the sofas in front of the fi re, looking out at the Valais Blacknose sheep, Pygmy goats, and Alpacas, there’s so much life and movement outside that you really don’t need a TV,” she laughs. Not that technology has been abandoned entirely. “Of course, we do have a very cool LG slide TV that can be subtly hidden if needed.”
A thoughtfully curated mix of old and new defines the décor, with vintage finds sitting comfortably alongside bespoke pieces. Gem’s eye for detail is evident in her choice of furniture and accessories, each piece bringing its own story to the space. “There are so many pieces that we love, but a few really stand out,” she says. “One is the bespoke sofa, which we designed in collaboration with Emma from Design & That Studio. The fabric, made from recycled water bottles, is not only sustainable but also features the colours of Arley, giving it a unique and local touch. It’s 100 per cent made in the UK, which we’re really proud of.”
With its natural terracotta floor, ochre shaker cabinets and apple green woodwork, the kitchen acts as a visual echo of the surrounding orchards
The kitchen, created by Apron, is another highlight. “The pop of ochre colour really makes it a focal point, adding a vibrant yet balanced touch to the space,” Gem notes. And then there’s the artwork – a carefully curated selection that adds layers of meaning and personality. “We adore the artwork by Lee Johnson. It’s called Five Walking II, and it’s so meaningful to us. The piece perfectly captures the spirit of the farm because, more often than not, our guests come to simply walk and enjoy the outdoors, much like the figures in the painting.”
Sourcing pieces for the farm has been a labour of love. Gem’s go-to brands include Studio Atkinson, Colours of Arley, and A Rum Fellow for fabrics, Holmes Bespoke for rugs, and Projects on Walls for artwork. But some of the most treasured finds come from a more hands-on approach. “I love to add vintage and antique sourced items found all around Suffolk,” she says. Despite its considered curation, nothing about Restaries feels overly styled. “Fabric and colour really helped transform plain spaces into relaxing locations,” Gem explains. It’s a delicate balance – creating interiors that feel both thoughtful and effortless – but it’s one she’s nailed.
For those lucky enough to visit, a stay at Restaries promises a taste of laid-back luxury. “Guests can expect a laid-back escape in nature, surrounded by animals and stunning skies,” says Gem. “The accommodations are comfortable and relaxing, offering the perfect spot to unwind. With great food and a vibe that’s all about good times and making connections, it’s the ideal place to kick back, enjoy yourself, and create some memorable moments. Oh, and don’t forget to bring swimmers for a morning dip.” A mix of comfort, connection, and a deep appreciation for the land makes Paradise Farm so special. This is a place shaped by its landscape, filled with character, and made for gathering, unwinding, and making lasting memories.
