How it all began…
‘I saw my life branching out before me like the green fig tree in the story. From the tip of every branch , like a fat purple fig, a wonderful future beckoned and winked’ – Sylvia Plath
Calderdale has been my home for nearly twenty years. Having grown up in the flatlands of the neighbouring county of Lincolnshire, the stunning landscape of West Yorkshire is vastly different. With its rolling, dales, windswept hills and vast expanses of heather-covered moors, the welcoming hug of this lush countryside made it such an easy decision for me to plant permanent roots.
Just around the corner in my beautiful home village of Luddenden, I discovered the gorgeous weavers cottage on Apple House Terrace. Running the cottage as a holiday home has allowed me to pull together all my creative projects from the past and provide a little haven from which my guests, many of them could explore this beautiful area.
A year later I discovered the stunning stone cottage in Crabtree Fold, Old Town overlooking Heptonstall and Hebden Bridge. Quite a different project where I managed a complete renovation – exposing original features and adding a stunning Victorian wrought iron spiral staircase.
Living in such a beautiful area and realising the beauty right here on my doorstep, I am thrilled to welcome guests to the Calder Valley – an area which boasts so much beauty along with such an abundance of attractions.
Having furnished each cottage with unique, quirky pieces and vintage homewares, I indulged my passion for searching out beautiful items and have created a store on Etsy, the online marketplace for custom and creative goods.
Having worked in the art and design industry for 30 years and working closely with interior designers, I also offer a consultancy service for interior decoration. This has developed locally, through recommendation and word of mouth, but with the birth of Zoom, I am now able to offer my services further afield.
Three is the magic number – just ask Pythagorus, or De La Soul! The number of harmony, wisdom and understanding. I am happy to have three strings to my bow which bring together the fruits of my labours and give me a zest for life.
And so, Pomona Living is a celebration of life! The seeds were planted long ago, the roots are taking hold and the branches reach out to welcome all who choose to visit and explore this little piece of heaven, and perhaps take a little something home with them.
With love,
Natalie
My Ethos
As well as promoting and celebrating local businesses, I am also committed to supporting Calder Valley Search and Rescue Team.
CVSRT is a voluntary team of local people, plus some incredible search dogs, who have been saving lives in wild and remote places for over 50 years.
A special tribute must be made to my beloved late husband, Richard Graves, who was a proud member of this Search and Rescue for many years, and there’s a framed memorial at their base in Mytholmroyd.