STAY

Gem Boner and husband Thom Scherdel, co-founders of Restaries, bring their impressive career backgrounds in fashion, events, PR and hospitality to their newly opened bespoke retreat set on scenic 10-acre estate Paradise Farm, in Suffolk. After relocating from London, Gem imagined a picturesque place for guests to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a luxurious, memorable stay. Thoughtfully designed accommodations blend her unique modern style with the property’s historic charm - including a 16th century farmhouse - and every detail, from the vibrant, charming interiors to friendly farm animals (we are especially enamoured with their adorable Kune Kune Pigs!), reflects Gem’s dedication to creating meaningful experiences for her guests. Featuring luxurious touches, such as CULTIVER linen of course, Restaries invites guests to truly unwind in style. Read on to learn about designing the interiors, the joys of living at Paradise Farm, and her daily rituals.

I’m Gem Bon-Scherdel, and I’m married to Thom. We have two wonderful, wildling daughters—Aries Rae and Deia Luma—who keep our lives full of adventure. We recently made the big move from London to Paradise Farm in Suffolk, where we’ve just launched our new business, Restaries.

For the past 20 years, I’ve worked in the fashion, events, and hospitality industries, working for brands like Topshop, Whistles, and Soho House. Those years gave me a lot of experience in creating memorable experiences and managing complex projects, which ultimately inspired me to take the leap and start my own business.

Restaries is a true passion project for me—it’s something I’ve always dreamed of, and I’m so excited to see it come to life. Situated on a 10-acre estate in Suffolk, Restaries is all about offering bespoke, unforgettable experiences. We’ve just launched this summer, but we have so many exciting plans ahead, and I’m thrilled to see where it will go in the next 12 months. It’s been a big transition, but one I feel so aligned with, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Restaries evolves and grows in the years to come.

At the moment, nature is my biggest inspiration. Living in Suffolk, I’m surrounded by such incredible colours and textures in the landscape, and I find myself constantly in awe of the beauty and richness that Mother Nature provides.

At Restaries, we are more than just a place to stay; we are a destination that invites guests to experience the true essence of Suffolk. Set on a beautiful 10-acre estate in the heart of the countryside, with the stunning Southwold coastline just a short drive away, our brand is rooted in the idea of offering a tranquil and bespoke escape.

We pride ourselves on providing a collection of thoughtfully designed accommodation and event spaces that cater to each guest’s individual needs. Every stay at Restaries is unique, as we offer a fully tailored service that ensures our guests have an experience that is completely their own. Whether it’s a quiet retreat, a celebration, or a special event, our goal is to create an atmosphere where our guests can truly unwind, connect, and feel at home.

In addition to our accommodations, we are excited to offer a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. We also host a select number of retreats, providing guests with the opportunity to escape their everyday routines and immerse themselves in nature, wellness, and self-reflection.

Restaries is a place where time slows down, allowing people to reconnect with themselves, each other, and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Our brand is all about creating lasting memories through personalised experiences, and we are committed to making each moment spent here special and one-of-a-kind.

We were drawn to this countryside location because it offers the perfect balance of both countryside and seaside. We love that we can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the countryside, while also being just a short drive away from the coast. The fresh air, open space, and natural beauty of the area are incredibly appealing, and it’s the ideal place for our children to grow up.

For the interior design, we wanted to create a modern aesthetic that still honours the rich history of the property, which dates back to the 16th century. We aimed to strike a balance between contemporary style and the timeless values of the estate. To bring this vision to life, we worked closely with Emma, the founder of Design & That, who helped guide us throughout the process. Her expertise was invaluable in blending modern design elements with the historic charm of the space, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both fresh and timeless.

Our design sensibility is all about creating light, airy spaces that feel open and connected to nature. We love incorporating natural elements and bringing the outdoors inside, whether through large windows that frame beautiful views or using natural materials like wood and stone. We want the spaces to feel inviting and harmonious, with a sense of flow and openness. By focusing on light and creating an environment that feels calm and grounded, we aim to create a space where people can relax, recharge, and really connect with their surroundings.

What really makes a house or accommodation feel like a home is the kitchen. It’s always been the heart of every place we've lived, and here at Restaries, it’s no different. We’ve always made the kitchen a communal space, where everyone can gather, share meals, and spend time together. For us, it’s about creating an environment that feels welcoming and connected to the rest of the home.

We worked with Apron Kitchens to design this space so that it flows seamlessly with the rest of the property, allowing us to enjoy the company of our guests while also being immersed in nature. From the kitchen, you can even see the cheeky goats and sheep grazing outside, which adds a touch of charm and connection to the land. It’s these little touches—the blend of functionality, comfort, and the beauty of nature—that truly make it feel like a home.

My daily rituals definitely start with coffee! With young kids and a packed schedule, it’s my essential moment of calm before the day begins. I love taking the time to make a good cup of coffee; it’s my quiet, grounding start to the day. If I’m lucky enough to have a bit of extra time in the evening, I love winding down with a bath—it’s my little escape to relax and recharge before bed. Those two moments are my anchors in the chaos of daily life!

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