Weaving Story into Space: Our Vereda Handwoven Stripe at Restaries’ Gate House
A short interview with Founder Gem Boner
This month, we’re spotlighting the inspiring Gemma Boner, founder of Restaries—a soulful collection of curated stays on the Suffolk-Norfolk border. Rooted in nature, storytelling, and community, Restaries is a space where meaningful design meets mindful living. We spoke to Gemma about craft, connection, and the beauty of bespoke interiors.
Vereda Handwoven Stripe Fabric at Restaries
1. For those who don’t know you and your gorgeous brand, Restaries, can you tell us a little bit about who you are and what Restaries is all about?
Restaries is an accommodation, event space, and shoot location located on the border of Suffolk and Norfolk. We’ve aimed to create a brand and location with heart—somewhere you can truly relax, but also, hopefully, find inspiration. Whether that comes from the interiors, the surroundings, nature, or the animals, we want to offer something special to everyone who visits.
2. Restaries feels deeply rooted in storytelling. What inspired you to create it, and how do you bring that into your interiors?
I’ve always loved storytelling. It’s part of my nature and something I’m truly passionate about—connecting people through stories and bringing different elements together. Creating Restaries was a way to weave those stories into the fabric of the space, whether it’s through the design, the history, or the people we work with.
3. Your spaces blend nature, history, and wellness. How does this influence your design choices?
So much! It’s at the heart of everything we do. There’s something very spiritual about the farm. I’m not sure if it’s the history of the 16th-century house or if it has something to do with the land itself—it's actually situated on two fault lines. Whatever the reason, this deep connection to nature and history definitely influences the choices we make in our designs.It was also one of the things that drew me to Routes, that connection with the spiritual journey, which is what we were on..
4. You champion small, independent brands. Why is this important to you, and how does it shape your spaces?
I think it’s incredibly hard for small brands to cut through the noise, so whenever I get the chance, I like to shine a light on those I believe are doing great things. Small brands often don’t have big budgets for advertising, so word of mouth is key. I feel it’s my duty to share that knowledge and support these independent businesses.
5. The Vereda Stripe headboard is a striking feature in the Gate House. What drew you to this design, and how does it enhance the space?
I loved so many of the Routes fabrics that it was hard to narrow it down, but Anghard was amazing—she sent swatches and guided me through the entire process. We were drawn to these colors, and they ended up becoming a real focal point of the space.
6. How did you find the experience of working with us, from selecting the fabric to seeing the final piece?
Brilliant! So professional and knowledgeable. It was amazing to hear about the process and see videos of the ways of working. We felt so confident that Routes would deliver quality.
Vereda Handwoven Fabric at Restaries
7. We shared behind-the-scenes images of the weaving process. Did this connection to the craft add meaning to the final result?
Absolutely, we adored this. It’s not often you get to see behind the scenes. Seeing the founder of the brand in Mexico with the artisans really put our minds at ease, knowing that this product was coming from a place of creativity and talent, and was sourced in a sustainable way.
8. Sustainability is at the heart of both of our brands. How do you ensure that ethical and sustainable choices are reflected in your design process?
We carefully consider every decision we make, always striving to take the most sustainable step possible. There are so many amazing brands that put sustainability at their core, which really helps us when we're choosing partners and products for our spaces.
9. Your spaces are beautifully curated, and we’re definitely eyeing up a stay this year! What’s on the horizon for Restaries in the months ahead?
So much! It’s been a very busy start to the year. Our next accommodation is set to open in June, and we have some exciting plans for retreats and pop-up food concepts that our guests will be able to enjoy.
Follow Gem on Instagram: @gem_boner and @restaries