Sea Air, Soft Light: Meet Judy Stafford’s Coastal Cottage Full of Character

From salvaged textures to a palette pulled straight from the shoreline, this coastal cottage renovation is proof that natural materials and a little personality go a long way. We caught up with Judy Stafford of @Cobblestones_and_Wells to talk about why she fell for our Urchin Pendants, how they transformed her dining room and stairwell from functional to full of character, and why statement lighting might just be the best investment she made in her whole renovation.

What drew you to Tom Raffield's designs for this project?

When we were renovating the cottage, I wanted every piece we chose to feel considered rather than simply filling a space. I was immediately drawn to Tom Raffield's designs because they have a warmth and softness that's hard to find. The craftsmanship is beautiful, and the natural wood felt completely at home in our coastal cottage.

Which Tom Raffield pieces did you choose, and why were they the right fit for your space?

We chose the Urchin Pendants for our dining area and stairwell. The dining room has high ceilings and large roof lights, so it needed a light that would make a statement without dominating the space. The Urchin Pendant has a sculptural quality that draws your eye while still feeling light and elegant. The lighting also ties in beautifully with our flooring and furniture, so it feels as though it really belongs there.

As someone who has carefully renovated and styled your cottage, why do you think it's worth investing in statement lighting?

Lighting is one of those finishing touches that can completely change how a room feels. We spent a long time renovating the cottage, carefully choosing materials and furniture, but it wasn't until the lighting was installed that everything really came together. A beautiful light isn't just practical, it becomes part of the room and something you enjoy every single day.

How did the coastal location of your home influence your interior design decisions?

The setting influenced almost every decision we made. We wanted the interiors to feel calm, relaxed and connected to the landscape outside, so we kept the palette soft and natural, using plenty of oak and textured materials. The wooden Urchin Pendants complement that perfectly. They add warmth without feeling heavy, and their organic shape feels right at home by the sea.

What was your reaction when you first saw the lights installed in your home?

I remember thinking they were even more beautiful than I'd imagined! They instantly gave both spaces a real sense of character. The dining room suddenly felt complete, and the stairwell, which had simply been a space to pass through, has become somewhere that really catches your eye.

What do you notice most about the Pendants now that you've lived with them for a while?

What I appreciate most is how they change throughout the day. During daylight they're beautiful sculptural pieces, but in the evening they create such a warm, welcoming atmosphere. I also love the gentle shadows the curved wood casts around the room - they're subtle but add so much interest.

What do you think makes Tom Raffield's designs different from other lighting brands you've come across?

For me, it's craftsmanship. Every piece feels thoughtfully made rather than mass produced. They're beautifully designed, but they never feel like they're following a trend. They have a timeless quality that makes them feel like an investment you'll still love many years from now.

Would you recommend Tom Raffield to others renovating or decorating their homes, and why?

Without hesitation. If you're creating a home that you want to enjoy for years to come, I think it's worth investing in pieces that are both beautiful and functional. The Urchin Pendants have become some of my favourite features in the cottage. They bring warmth, character and a lovely sense of calm, which is exactly how we wanted our home to feel.

Posted: 23.07.26
Updated: 23.07.26