Michael and Sarah Townsend moved from rural tradition to urban contemporary, and absolutely love it. With its modern conveniences and urban setting, this new home couldn't be more different from their previous property, a traditional farmhouse set in 10 acres."We wanted the convenience of being near a city centre and in a quiet enclave, " says Michael. "We also wanted to retain some of the features of our previous home, particularly the high ceilings, but thought a really good-quality new build with a configuration that we could change before it was constructed would fit the bill.Although the couple were able to achieve what they wanted in terms of changing the layout and fittings, when it came to furnishings, fabric and paint colours, they asked interior designer Emma Hooton for her advice.