Each of our retreats is shaped by meaningful moments and unique journeys. In this series of personal Q&As, we’re spending time with our owners to uncover the stories behind their inspiring spaces—offering a deeper look into the luxury escapes we’re proud to feature in the Curious Retreats portfolio.
In this edition, we visit Restaries at Paradise Farm, home to The Cider Store and The Gate House. This thoughtfully curated collection of retreats is the vision of Gem Boner and Thom Scherdel, partners in both life and design.
Once a site for cider making, the farm has been lovingly transformed into a haven of calm, creativity, and comfort.
Drawing on their backgrounds in hospitality, fashion, and events, the duo has crafted an experience that’s both personal and polished—where every detail is considered to make guests feel truly at home.
Perfectly positioned between Suffolk’s coast, countryside, and charming market towns, Paradise Farm offers more than just a place to stay. With local artisan touches and thoughtful design throughout, it’s a space to relax, reconnect, and be inspired.
1. What inspired you to create such a special retreat like this?
Originally, the idea was simply to live at Paradise Farm and maybe rent out one of the outbuildings to help with costs. But once we arrived, the place had such a strong energy, it felt too special not to share. When our careers shifted, we saw an opportunity to do something completely new—and meaningful. That’s when Restaries was born: a soulful retreat in Suffolk designed for guests who want to slow down, reconnect, and experience something more considered.
2. What makes Paradise Farm a special place for guests to stay?
It’s hard to explain until you arrive, but there’s a calm here that wraps around you. The land is completely rewilded, so it feels immersive—untamed in the best way. You’re surrounded by nature, but still have all the small luxuries that make a stay feel elevated. It’s this balance between grounded and refined, private and generous, that makes Paradise Farm such a unique holiday retreat.
3. How did your background in fashion and hospitality influence the design and experience here?
Design and guest experience have always been part of our DNA. Working in fashion gave us a sharp eye for detail and a deep appreciation for storytelling through space. From Soho House to Browns to Farfetch, we learned how powerful good service and thoughtful design can be. Restaries is built on that foundation: curated, but never clinical—elegant, but always warm.
4. Tell us a little about the design approach – what feeling were you hoping to create for guests?
We wanted guests to walk in and exhale. Everything is designed with a sense of ease—natural textures, layered lighting, generous beds, deep baths, considered colour palettes. The goal was to create a sanctuary that doesn’t shout for attention, but whispers luxury. A space where people can feel like themselves, just a little more rested.
5. Do you have any recommendations for nearby hidden gems guests should explore while here?
Absolutely. Suffolk is full of quiet brilliance. Wyken Vineyards is a must—beautiful food and a magical setting. Dunwich beach is wild and moody in the best way. For a slower day, head to Framlingham for antique hunting and a proper bakery stop. We also send guests to a few secret spots we’ve found over time… but those are best shared in person.
6. Are there any personal touches or rituals you’ve woven into the guest experience?
Definitely. We like to treat every guest as if they’re old friends staying for the weekend. Whether that’s setting up a woodland dinner with one of our private chefs, stocking the room with someone’s favourite wine, or creating a birthday breakfast for a child—it’s those small, unspoken moments that matter. We also leave hand-written welcome notes and often tailor playlists for the room, depending on the mood of the stay.
7. What do you hope guests take away from their stay?
That feeling of reset. Of remembering what it feels like to be rested and looked after, without the pressure to “do” anything. We hope they leave feeling lighter, more connected to nature, to each other, and to themselves. That’s when we know we’ve done our job.
8. How do you personally enjoy the space when it’s not full of guests?
We always say that running Restaries is both our home and our full-time job—so it’s rare to find stillness. But when we do, we love walking the land at golden hour, picking veg from the kitchen garden with the kids, or swimming in the pool just before sunset. It’s the in-between moments that feel the most magic.
9. What’s your ideal day at Paradise Farm?
Coffee outside while the mist is still rising from the fields, a slow walk through the woods with the alpacas and Kune Kune pigs, then a big family-style lunch under the oaks. An afternoon nap, a cold swim, and a fire-cooked dinner with friends in the outdoor kitchen. No phones. Just people, food, and nature.
10. Do you have a favourite corner or view on the property?
There’s a bench under one of the oldest trees on the land, right at the edge of the wildflower meadow. From there, you can see the whole horizon and hear nothing but birdsong. It’s a little hidden, and that’s what makes it perfect. When we sit there, everything slows down—just for a moment.
Planning Your Stay at The Cider Store and / or The Gate House?
Get in touch with one of the team who can happily assist you with your enquiry.
Image credits: © Restaries | All other images are our own.
