This week on The Seven Ages of Britain, David Dimbleby visited the stunning Nostell Priory, which is situated near Wakefield in West Yorkshire. Full to the brim with beautiful paintings and frescos along with numerous pieces of furniture, many of which were made by Thomas Chippendale, the star of the residence, in our opinion, is the dolls’ house.

The 1:12th scale house was designed for Susannah Lady Winn, the wife of Sir Rowland, 4th Baronet, in the 1730’s whilst her husband was busy building the present house, Nostell Priory. However, this dolls’ house was not made for children. It was built for Lady Winn to display the grandeur of her house, together with her wealth and status. It also presents an amazing picture of early 18th Century life.

As in the real house the grandest rooms, including the best bedroom, dressing room, and drawing room are on the first floor; the Hall, kitchen and everyday parlour are on the ground floor; and ordinary family bedrooms, including the nursery, are at the top of the house. The contents of the house are perfect miniature versions of their life size counterparts, with many pieces of furniture said to have been built by Chippendale himself.

If you fancy taking a step back in time and seeing the house for yourself, it can be found in the South Passage at Nostell Priory.

Miniatures really can turn up in the most unusual places.

At last night’s Oscars celebrations, British acting talent Carey Mulligan looked stunning in a bejewelled black strapless Prada gown – but wait.  They aren’t jewels!  If you take a closer look, you will see they are miniature scissors, spoons and forks.

In our opinion it was definitely the best dress of the night!

“Where can I buy a traditional-style dolls’ house for my daughters?  It would be great to get one we can gradually add to over time if that’s possible?”

That is a fantastic question Rose, from Leicestershire, and Period Living has the answer – The Dolls House Emporium.  With a beautiful range of houses in every style, and from every historical period, you’re sure to find a house that suits you and your family – and with a house like the gorgeous Victorian-styled Mimosa Cottage, your daughters will be able to decorate it, add to it, and change it for many years to come.  We hope that helps Rose!

Think you haven’t got a creative bone in your body?  Well think again!  Essentials Magazine is encouraging everyone to get their kits out and get a bit crafty – from growing your own chilli to designing unique coasters.  Personally, our favourite by far, is to become your very own mini interior designer.  So let your crafty creative juices flow, with just a little help from The Dolls House Emporium.

The new Fully-Finished, Ready-to-Furnish Burghley Basement from The Dolls House Emporium was the talk of the town in this month’s Dolls House World “Small Talk” feature.

We think, because of its stunning quality and beautiful design, the Burghley Basement rightfully deserves this top talking spot – we’re sure you would agree!