Stories: Painted with Purpose: The Magic of Furniture Painting Retreats at Court House Farm
When guests arrive at Court House Farm for a Furniture Painting Retreat with designer Tristan Merriam, they’re stepping into more than just a series of workshops. They’re entering a creative haven – a place where something truly special happens. Over the course of six days, furniture is transformed, friendships are forged, and guests leave with more than they came with: renewed inspiration, deeper connection, and a piece of themselves reflected in the work they've created.
We’ve just hosted our seventh retreat with Tristan – and it was one of the most magical yet. A group of strangers bonded instantly, sharing stories, laughter, and creativity. Before the retreat even ended, they had all booked to return next year. That kind of energy can’t be manufactured – it’s the alchemy of this ancient place and the people it draws together.
A Place Brought to Life by Vision
At the heart of this retreat is Court House Farm – a lovingly restored medieval farmstead nestled in the Somerset town of Portishead. It is the vision of Helen and mick, whose creativity and commitment to reviving this historic site has turned it into a vibrant centre for art, learning, and community. Helen, like Annie Sloan, shares a deep love for Charleston House – the famously hand-painted home of the Bloomsbury Group. That same spirit of expressive interiors, layered colour, and artistic freedom runs through Court House Farm too.
The interiors here are a quiet revelation – a beautiful blend of sympathetic restoration, art and design, filled with vintage and antique furniture, painted pieces, and collected curiosities. The walls themselves tell stories – textured with centuries of history, rich patina, and carefully chosen details that create a space that’s not just beautiful, but alive with atmosphere.
Through Helen’s vision, Court House Farm has become more than just a venue. It’s a place where art, history, and human connection meet – where people are encouraged to slow down, look closer, and create something meaningful.
Meet the Designer: Tristan Merriam of Doghead Designs
Tristan’s path to becoming a designer is itself a bold creative leap. Once a primary school headteacher in Bristol, his life changed when his wife booked him onto an Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ workshop. From that first brushstroke, he was hooked. He soon left education and launched Doghead Designs, a furniture painting business in Clevedon, North Somerset. Today, Tristan is:
A Brand Ambassador and Stockist for Annie Sloan
A featured designer on BBC’s Money for Nothing
A current Painter in Residence for Annie Sloan
The owner of a vibrant shop and studio where he runs regular workshops
Known for his bold use of colour, pattern, and texture, Tristan’s work blends joyful energy with emotional depth. He honours the artistic legacy of his late father in each piece he has recently painted for his residency, and brings that same heartfelt passion to every retreat he leads.
What Happens on the Retreat
Tristan’s six -day immersive retreats at Court House Farm are designed to suit all levels of experience – from curious beginners to confident creatives. Here’s what guests can expect:
🖌️ Expert instruction from Tristan on how to use Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ and develop decorative techniques
🎨 Create a statement furniture piece to take home – working at your own pace with plenty of support
🌿 Enjoy time to wander the gardens, reflect in beautiful spaces, and let the historic setting inspire you
🍽️ Share delicious home-cooked meals with fellow guests and form lasting creative friendships
💡 Take part in discussions and demos with Annie Sloan herself – who visits to share her knowledge and passion for colour, patina, and a creative life
Each day is carefully designed to balance structured creative time with moments to rest, connect, and explore. Whether you’re rediscovering your creativity or diving deeper into an artistic practice, this retreat offers a space to grow and be inspired.
Paint, Belong, Return
There’s a reason guests return again and again. It’s not just the expert tuition or the stunning surroundings – it’s the feeling of belonging. Helen’s vision for Court House Farm has always been about more than aesthetics. It’s about bringing people together through creativity. And these retreats are living proof that it works.
If you’ve been looking for a place to reignite your creativity, meet kindred spirits, and learn from the very best – this is it.
Words from the Retreat Guests
Each retreat leaves a lasting impression — not just in brushstrokes, but in friendships formed and memories made. Here’s what a few of our recent guests had to say:
“What a special retreat... nine of us met as strangers and we left as friends, already planning a painting get-together in a few months and will return for another painting retreat with Tristan at Court House Farm next year!”
— Anne, UK
“It was not only a magical mixture of inspiration, creativity, friendship and the magician Tristan as a tutor in a fairytale setting with warm hosts and culinary delights, but an indescribable experience from a dream world.”
— Sylke, Switzerland
“A week living my most artfully indulgent life. I had the absolute joy of spending time with Tristan and my forever muse Annie Sloan — all set against the wildly romantic, Pinterest-come-to-life backdrop of Court House Farm.”
— Geisa, Canada
These aren’t just retreats. They’re stories you live, friendships you keep, and experiences you carry home with you.
Join Us at Court House Farm
The next Furniture Painting Retreat with Tristan Merriam is open for booking now. Come and see what happens when paint, people, and a powerful place come together.
👉 Explore upcoming retreat dates
👉 Learn more about Tristan’s work
👉 Get painting with chalk paint by Annie Sloan