Innehållsförteckning för June 2022 från Ideal Home

“If it makes you feel happy that’s what counts – I’ve discovered a new love of pink!” A latecomer to the pink party, I’ve only just used it for the first time to paint my bedroom walls. So it stands to reason that I’ll soon be reading all about how pink has had it’s day! Will I be rushing to repaint my bedroom? Nope! I’ve found (to my surprise) that I love how the pink feels. In the mornings it’s fresh yet serene, and at the end of the day it’s got a cosy vibe that’s perfect for curling up with a good book. Nailing the colour in this room has turned it into my favourite space in the house. Because colour is all about how it makes you feel,…

LISTEN Matt Gibberd, co-founder of The Modern House (the estate agency helping us to live in more thoughtful ways), invites guests from the worlds of design and architecture and creative industries to discuss their three favourite homes in the world. A Desert Island Discs for design lovers, The Modern House podcast drops weekly. READ Award-winning gardening author Lucy Bellamy presents 52 simple planting ‘recipes’ in her book Grow5. Using a palette of just five plants, she inspires beautiful outdoor spaces and gives a fresh take on gardening for even the smallest of spaces (£22, Mitchell Beazley). DO Come to the capital this month and you’ll be met with two interiors fairs to inspire and delight. From 23 to 26 June, both The Arts & Antiques Fair (a treasure trove of…

WORST PART Going through planning was more straightforward than I thought it would be, but we did have a five-month delay as we were told there might be bats on the site, which are a protected species. We had to wait until May to do the survey but luckily it came back that there was nothing to worry about. BEST DECISION Finding and using a Passivhaus consultant, who worked alongside our architect Jonathan to create a house that would stay cool at the height of summer and warm in the winter. FAVOURITE SPACE The separate grown-up sitting room is the best place for relaxing in. And I love the fact it’s separate from the children’s playroom. I mainly use it in the evenings when the children are in bed.…

Cover drawers Revive a bland basic with the addition of textured wallpaper. Apply to the fronts of a simple Ikea chest of drawers, adding sleek handles, for a touch of designer chic. Give it a twist….. Once papered, paint the whole cabinet a dark green or navy to bring it bang up to date Glam panels Create a feature wall with a difference by pasting a mural on the wall and then using strips of MDF to create panelling to fix in place over it. Give it a twist….. Paint the panelling a darker shade of grey or black, to give the illusion of a view through black steel-framed windows. Style statement Run a length of wallpaper from the floor, right over the ceiling and back down the other wall…

VICTORIA WADE, FOUNDER AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT AT VICTORIA WADE ‘It’s the things you don’t see – the excavation and groundworks – that take up your budget, but are so important to get right.’ PIP PROBERT, FOUNDER OF OUTER SPACES, AND DESIGNER ON BBC2’S YOUR GARDEN MADE PERFECT ‘Walk around your garden and find its sweet spots – although being close to the house has many benefits.’ COLIN LINCOLN-EVANS, BUYER AT TILE MOUNTAIN ‘I love to see decorative tiles surrounded by a section of plain tiles to create a focal point for entertaining.’…

‘What the expert say... “If you prefer a POP of RASPBERRY, why not just PAINT the woodwork? RASPBERRY can look fabulous on a front door”CLARE TILBROOK, JOINT FOUNDER AND COLOUR CONSULTANT, FENWICK & TILBROOK Designers and stylists share their views ‘The shade of raspberry dictates the mood of a room. A pinker hue can be young and vibrant, whereas a darker more reddish tone can be atmospheric and moody. Either way, raspberry makes for a bold, rich and luxurious interior.’ VICTORIA YARDLEY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, VICTORY COLOURS ‘The key to picking the right shade is to consider how the room will be used. Bedrooms lend themselves to deeper raspberry tones, as these create a cosy feel. A brighter shade will bring positive energy to a space, perfect for social areas such…

THE PROBLEM ‘We had outgrown the higgledy piggledy layout of our old kitchen THE SOLUTION ‘A developer had installed a new kitchen when we moved in 15 years ago but now we were ready for a radical change. I worked closely with interior designer Lisa Burke (lisa burkeinteriors.com) and it was Lisa who suggested architect Charlotte Blythe, and together we designed my new kitchen. Instead of extending, we reconfigured the ground floor including our L-shaped kitchen. We knocked down internal walls and installed three steels to maximise space. On top of my wish list was an island and Shaker-style units. Lisa was on hand to source vintage pieces and helped me pick a calming colour scheme. We also chose handcrafted features, to create a design that will stand the test…

THE PROBLEM ‘The only bathroom we had was tiny, freezing and dated THE SOLUTION ‘Having demolished and rebuilt most of our 1852 cottage, we created three extra bathrooms and made our former en suite much bigger. The old bathroom with the kitchen below had been added in the 1970s. Its walls had no insulation, it was freezing and the bathroom was hideous. Once the building work began, we rented a flat nearby. The bathroom took three months from being a shell to becoming the understated haven it now is. We wanted an industrial look with subdued colours that will last us a lifetime. As well as the bath and vanity unit in reclaimed marble, we also chose a resin floor, oak for the door and drawers, and concrete-effect wall tiles…

DESIGN Zoe Duff Gordon (zoeduffgordonlighting.co.uk) designed the lighting for the garden and recommends uplighting small trees with narrow beams to create drama. Lights with broad beams create subtle ambient light in borders, while downlights fixed high on walls offer more directed light on a patio or dining area. Also light steps and paths to allow safe access at night. LIGHTING OPTIONS LEDs are the best options for gardens – look for an IP rating of 65 or above which guarantees they’re waterproof. Solar-powered lights only produce a soft glow and you must install the solar panel in full sun to recharge. Warm white lights offer the most natural effect in a garden. INSTALLATION Employ a qualified, experienced electrician to install outdoor lights. Zoe suggests a few circuits will allow maximum…

Prefab homes have been on a journey of redemption. After decades of being seen as a damp, low-cost, low-quality, post-war housing solution, these Cinderellas of the housing industry are now considered the future. As always, the truth is more complicated. Post-war prefabs were actually very successful: warm, well designed and loved by their residents. They provided an intelligent, rapid response to the acute housing crisis created by World War II. Their reputations were tarnished because they were generally designed to last 20-30 years. This was often extended by decades, with many becoming tired and damp before they were replaced. The idea that we can use this approach again to help in our current housing and environmental crisis is certainly appealing. Prefabricated housing is a broad term covering everything from a…

Render is a plastered finish for external walls that gives a smooth finish and protects brickwork against the elements. It’s usually built up in two or three coats, making it less likely surface cracks will develop. From the smart stucco on Georgian townhouses to post-war pebble-dash, there’s a whole array of renders to choose from. These varying materials not only provide different looks, but some are more suitable for certain types of properties than others. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Aside from protecting the brickwork against wind and rain, rendering your walls can make the building more energy efficient. Around 30 per cent of the energy used to heat a home is lost through its external walls. Using a product like an acrylic-insulated render is a clever way of upgrading energy…

The outside world is fast and frantic. Traffic, noise, lights, other humans. We need an escape from that – and I’ve never felt more compelled to treat my home as a safe haven. Ensuring your home feels like a sanctuary isn’t just about the colour palette or having a declutter – it’s about choosing how and when to retreat. The word ‘retreat’ can be misunderstood as giving up or hiding away, but it’s really an essential counterbalance to the craziness of everyday life. The best way to retreat is to switch off the outside world – and the only thing you need is awareness. Check in with yourself and ask: ‘How do I feel after I’ve sat on the sofa watching the news? How do I feel after scrolling through…

GIVE EVERYTHING A HOME When organising your living room, ensure everything has a place and try not to focus on just how things look, but their practicality too. This is a huge mistake I see people make all the time and I wish I could step in and stop them! A room needs to be visually pleasing of course, but it also needs to work for you and your life, and buying things because they look pretty will cause you to fail at the first hurdle. PIN DOWN THE ROOM’S MAIN PURPOSE Is it a living room and also a play area? Is it a place you need to work in? Is it a space to unwind and read? For most of us these days, our living spaces have multiple…

TONAL SCHEME DIFFERENT SHADES OF ONE COLOUR A tonal scheme is arguably the simplest of the colour recipes you can use for decorating. It includes only different tones (lighter and darker) of the same colour, so it’s a good place to start if you’re unsure about contrasting combinations. Using light and dark variations of your chosen colour and varying textures will add an extra dimension to your scheme. HARMONIOUS SCHEME COLOURS THAT SIT NEXT TO EACH OTHER ON THE WHEEL Harmonious colours are the most widely used in interior design. The name says it all – choosing adjacent colours is a simple way of creating a harmonious scheme that’s easy to live with. The contrasts between colours next to each other on the wheel are subtle – red, red-orange and…

“Block prints can busy, so limit them to a fabulous feature wall and mix block-printed fabrics with plains” NICKY PHILLIPS, STYLE EDITOR BEGIN WITH A MID-TONE AQUA Not as dark as a teal, but still sitting on the fence between blue and green, aquamarine has an undertone of black yet can still be considered warm. Calming and restorative, it’s great for social spaces, as well as more private bedrooms or snugs. INJECT A SPLASH OF SUNSHINE Citrus yellow conjures up the sights, smells and tastes of the Mediterranean and it’s this warmth and freshness that gives it energy. Verging on the side of lime, its green undertones pair beautifully with the green tones of aqua, making this a perfect match. OFFSET SOLID COLOUR A heavily patterned wallpaper featuring a combination…

“Warm neutrals envelop and comfort. They look their best within a palette of natural tones such as other earthy shades and soft grey greens” JUSTYNA KORCZYNSKA, CROWN COLOUR CONSULTANT ALLOW YOURSELF TO INDULGE Synonymous with wealth and indulgence, shades of truffle reflect the qualities of their edible namesake. This grounded colour blends pale pinks with greys to create an elegant neutral that’s certain to lend sophistication to a scheme. It’s also versatile, pairing beautifully with a variety of bolder colours. CREATE EVERYDAY LUXURY Rich, chocolatey tones never fail to evoke a feeling of bliss and comfort – they’re like a treat for interior spaces. Reflect this sense of indulgent excess by painting walls and woodwork in a matching shade for a contemporary scheme that’s chic and luxurious. USE DARK SHADES…

“The earthy tone of coral blends beautifully with natural shades of cream, white and wood tones” GINEVRA BENEDETTI, DEPUTY EDITOR PAINT WALLS IN CORAL BLUSH This earthy, faded terracotta tone will give your room a natural glow. It comes alive in summer sunlight, but on cold, grey days will still lend gentle warmth that’s an easy fix for north-facing spaces. OPT FOR CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE Try this colour on walls if your furniture is simple and modern. It’ll look too sugary with traditional cottage-style or shabby-chic pieces, so keep shapes sleek and finishes unfussy. USE AQUA WITH CONFIDENCE It may be bold but this mid-blue tone is timeless and simple to use. The shade sits happily with other hues of colour for a harmonious, layered look and is beautifully offset when…

“Tonal pops of cream and beige freshen neutral schemes and can add warmth if you pick them out in textiles” THEA BABINGTON-STITT, CONTENT EDITOR CHOOSE YOUR DEPTH Whether you’re using clay or latte as the dominant colour in your space, the most important thing to get right is the depth of tone. There are myriad brown, grey and putty shades on the market, but the key to achieving this look is selecting the softest, warmest variations. Look for light browns with undertones of pink for the most elegant and liveable colour. TRY TONE ON TONE For a cohesive and finished scheme add in layers of deeper and lighter browns and tans. For a contemporary feel, work your way right through the spectrum from whites to blacks. Always look at the…

HADLEY FREEMAN JOURNALIST & AUTHOR A Guardian columnist and features writer, Hadley has also penned four books. She’s just moved house – a new project! NICKY PHILLIPS STYLE EDITOR Nicky brings over 25 years’ experience to the table, and has been part of the Ideal Home family for 21 years. CHARLIE LUXTON ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER Charlie juggles his roles as director of Charlie Luxton Design, TV presenter and public speaker. KALPANA FITZPATRICK MONEY EXPERT An award-winning financial journalist, Kalpana is a regular guest on TV and radio, and editor of themoneyedit.com. FEARNE COTTON BROADCASTER & AUTHOR TV and radio presenter Fearne’s Happy Place podcast is now in its ninth series, with over 40 million downloads.…

“What works in Beverly Hills does not always work in north London, so now I leave LA decor to LA!” I’ve mainly been in Los Angeles this month, and there really is nothing like spending time in southern California to make you wonder why the hell you live in northern Europe. The food’s great, the weather’s incredible, the houses are to die for. And I don’t mean the absurd mock Tudor monstrosities in Beverly Hills and Calabasas, familiar to anyone who watched Beverly Hills, 90210 or its modern day equivalent, Keeping Up with the Kardashians. I mean even the hokey little apartment buildings in west Hollywood, like one a friend of mine lived in when she was starting out: sure it was on a main road, but it was painted…

SET BOUNDARIES Demarcate the living space from the kitchen with a low run of cabinetry. This will help keep the practical and social areas separate, while ensuring the cook isn’t isolated. GO HIGH In a small kitchen focus your design vertically. Full-height cabinetry not only provides more storage, but it creates a sophisticated design that clearly zones your kitchen within an open-plan living layout. FIT NEAT APPLIANCES Look for compact models, such as multi-functional ovens, which offer a range of cooking methods in one. CHOOSE SLIM UNITS Slimline units have a reduced depth. Replace handles with push/click catches for a streamlined finish.…

Demolition of the existing property got underway. Susie had considered an eco retrofit, but decided to go for a zero-VAT-rated new build as they’d be able to incorporate more of what they wanted in their home. The site was cleared and ready for the foundations to be dug. This meant the views of the surrounding hills were opened up – something the existing property was not taking advantage of. The ground floor was constructed. The build used a typical cavity wall construction method with beam and block suspended floor that is fully insulated. Trenches were dug out for the perimeter blockwork.…

STYLE DIRECTION “Mix super-bright tones with slightly more muted ones to add vibrancy without overpowering”NICKY PHILLIPS, STYLE EDITOR STYLE DIRECTION “Bold colour also works in a scheme where relaxing is key, with contrasting hues softened by sculpted curves”NICKY PHILLIPS, STYLE EDITOR PICK A PRINT Luxuriant tropical prints depicting palm, monstera and banana leaves, together with lilies, lotus flowers and orchids, in a pastel colour palette are key to this look. However, abstract block prints and geometrics in primary shades work just as well on both walls and upholstery. LOOK AT LIGHTING Choose statement lamps with shapely shades and smart brass accents to add a touch of Miami-cool. Go for a classic mid-century vibe, or why not make a statement with a stand-out pendant in shells or mother-of-pearl for a playful…

CRISP BASE This look owes a lot to the white backdrop, which allows the other colours and patterns to pop. The white base should extend across walls and furniture, as well as upholstery. It can be softened slightly with a few cream accessories so it doesn’t feel too cold. Choose patterns that feature elements of white woven into the design together with another one of the accent or highlight shades to tie the look together. White walls can be broken up with framed prints and artwork that feature the accent and highlight shades, too. RICH-BLUE ACCENTS Dark blues, such as navy, ink and indigo, add instant sophistication and are the main carriers of pattern in this scheme. Mix them up with fresh whites on graphic-style designs – think stripes and…

• Need to create a screen fast? Try arranging large pots of bamboo – just make sure they are kept watered all summer as they hate drying out. • Pleached trees (trees grown with a straight stem and a head of spreading branches) are a great way to create screening that extends over the height of a fence. • Try slatted screens rather than solid fences and use them to grow scented climbers – Trachelospermum jasminoides (star jasmine) is always a winner.…

1 HOW TO BUILD CURVY PANELLING Bring some wow factor into your home and create a 3D feature wall by using PVC gutter pipes to make on-trend panelling. All you need is a little DIY know-how. • Measure the area of the wall you want to panel and construct a simple backboard. Use wooden batons to make a frame and then attach a sheet of MDF using nails. • Next, use a circular saw (or hand saw if you have a steady hand) to cut PVC gutter pipes to the same height as your backing board. Pipes about 112mm wide will work well. • Using PVC adhesive, attach the pipes to the board one by one, lining them up against each other as you go. Apply a little pressure to…

• An oriel window is a structural glass window solution which creates a 3D window design that protrudes from the wall of your building, supported by brackets. This style gives a modern twist to your home and provides a lovely place to sit. • The window design is constructed in high specification glass that is sealed together without any framework, using structural-grade silicone. To create a frameless look, the vertical panes of glass require a strengthening interlayer to the inner pane, meaning no steel supports are needed. • You’ll need to consult your architect to ensure there is adequate support for the window. It may need planning permission if it will be over-looking a neighbour’s property. • There are limitations, such as the size of the glass, the weight that…

• ApaiserMARBLE was developed in Australia in the Barossa Valley and launched in 2004 after years of research to replicate the sensual quality of marble or stone. • Its virtue is that it is much lighter than natural stone, less expensive and warm to the touch. Made from a blend of up to 90% reclaimed crushed marble (which would otherwise go to landfill) and high-quality resin, it feels like marble or stone and is as durable. The bathware comes in a variety of colours and textures. • ApaiserMARBLE is also naturally slip-resistant, non-porous, and resistant to stains, scratches, mould and bacteria. • A team of highly experienced craftsmen and craftswomen will spend more than 300 hours creating each piece of Apaiser bathware, from basins to vanities and baths. The designs…

THE PROBLEM “By adapting and reusing the existing fabric of the property where possible, you minimise the environmental and financial costs of the build”TIM O’CALLAGHAN, DIRECTOR AND CO-FOUNDER, NIMTIM ARCHITECTS ‘The property was too small and thermally inefficient for comfortable living, plus an additional bedroom was required THE SOLUTION ‘An old conservatory was removed to make way for the kitchen-diner extension and a bedroom was added to the loft,’ explains Tim. ‘Utility spaces are now in the darker centre of the house, with the living areas pushed to the bright edges. A large sliding door and a rooflight flood the north-facing kitchen with light. ‘We used affordable materials and elevated them with colour. The loft materials were limited by permitted development constraints, but the yellow timber glazing materials were positively…

“A n air purifier needs around 10cm to ensure airflow in and out so can’t be placed too close to a wall or furniture”GINEVRA BENEDETTI, DEPUTY EDITOR BEFORE YOU BUY • Indoor air quality is under threat from wafted-in pollutants, allergens, dust particles, candles, open fires, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products and ‘offgassing’ – a process by which VOCs are released from paints and plastics for years. Using an air purifier is a great addition to any home and is especially beneficial if anyone in the family has asthma or allergies. • If you pick one room for your air purifier, choose the bedroom. You spend about a third of your life in there, usually with the door shut, and clean air will help promote sleep as well…

No need to hide “Wool, leather and feather free, this new collection doesn’t compromise on style or quality” Whether you love the look of leather, yet loathe the use of hide, or you’re simply just looking for a great value dupe, DFS has the furniture for you. With seven faux leathers, six artificial animal prints and ten smart plains to choose from, this new PETA-approved collection contains absolutely no animal-derived component parts in its manufacture. Featuring five sofas, a statement armchair and a footstool, they’ll make an instant impact on your living room without harming a fly (or indeed, any living thing). BIO-BASED KITCHEN APPLIANCES The popularity of products made from recycled materials is growing more and more and Philips new range of eco products is super-exciting as it gives…

Presenter, singer, actress and DIY fan Kimberley Walsh lives in north-west London with her husband and three sons WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE TIME OF THE DAY AT HOME? I love the evening when I get everything tidy and cosy down for the night. I start by dimming the lights and lighting my favourite scented candle – Baies by Diptyque – and then enjoy an hour to myself watching something I’ve chosen. It’s great to have a break from kids’ TV! WHERE’S YOUR HAPPY PLACE? It’s my new basement snug. I painted it in Crown’s Work Of Art – a dark grey/ navy colour that makes the space so cosy. I love getting the kids bathed and ready for bed nice and early so we can all watch a movie there together…

These three words are most often used when discussing colour. However, they’re most often confused too. Despite being used interchangeably, they mean three different things. HUE Forming the outer edges of the colour wheel, the primaries, secondaries and tertiaries, a hue is a colour in its purest form. As you can imagine, they’re pretty bold, which is why they’re usually lightened or darkened for most decorating schemes. SHADE AND TINT A shade is created by adding black to a colour to darken it, making it deeper and richer, while a tint is created by adding white, making the colour less intense.…

“Hints of raw materials such as concrete, wood and metal juxtapose the heady romance of pretty pinks and deep reds” STEPHANIE DURRANT, DEPUTY EDITOR GO FOR A MIX OF MATERIALS Wine red burgundy and rose petal pink may seem like an overly feminine combination at first glance, but this emotive duo can be adapted for any space. Try teaming with earthy elements such as rustic wood panelling and unfinished surfaces like plaster, concrete and terracotta to toughen the look. MELLOW SUGARY SHADES Elevate pinks and reds by pairing with natural tones and textures. Keep within the same spectrum, but introduce reddy-browns and pale plaster to temper the scheme. Pale grey accents are another option to take the combination from girly to grounded. INTRODUCE TACTILE ELEMENTS Avoid overly intricate patterns such…

“Work in metallics to make this look more luxe, but stick to warm brass or copper and use sparingly yet with confidence” HOLLY WALSH, FEATURES EDITOR USE GREEN AS YOUR BACKDROP Sage green can often look dirty in the pot, but once you get it on the walls, you realise it has a quiet softness about it that works perfectly in rooms large or small. With its connection to nature, this mid-green has soothing qualities that are crying out to be married with sweeter shades. BRING IN A DELICATE PINK Dusky powder pink has the same undertones as sage green, and so it won’t compete when they’re paired together. Not as sickly as baby pink, its slightly weathered appearance can turn a cool room a notch warmer, without overpowering the…

“Combining shades from the same colour palette makes for a cohesive scheme that allows you to express your individual style” HEATHER YOUNG, EDITOR RECONSIDER PURPLE Forget granny’s underwear drawer, lavender has had a sophisticated makeover for the modern home. Think dusky tones of soft purple as opposed to the sugary shades associated with shabby-chic interiors. PAINT A TWO-TONE WALL Sitting somewhere between sultry plum and deep brown, clove will bring a warm and inviting feel to any room. With its rich, enveloping quality, try painting half a wall to avoid overwhelming a smaller space. Balance with a neutral that shares a similar undertone. INTRODUCE BLACK AND GREY ACCENTS Pair a palette of purples with cool grey tones for a contemporary look. Try painting behind a bed frame in sumptuous lavender…

“Energy-boosting sunshine yellows will help get you kickstarted in the morning THEA BABINGTON-STITT” CONTENT EDITOR WORK WITH YOUR LIGHT Yellow automatically invites light into your space. Even darker rooms become warm and welcoming with a touch of yellow. That said, make sure you use your natural light to select the right colour for the mood you want to create. In north-facing rooms, you want to bounce light around, so stick to ‘true’ yellows, steering clear of any with a green or blue undertone. In south-facing rooms light becomes warmer, meaning deep yellows will be intensified, so it depends how warm or bright you want to make your space. THINK PINK Touches of pretty pinks tone down the scheme without losing any of its fresh and cheerful nature. Stick to beige…

“Reflecting nature at night time, navy acts as the perfect background for a moody, relaxing interior and gives a sense of grandeur to any room” JUSTYNA KORCZYNSKA, CROWN COLOUR CONSULTANT MATCH UP THE UNDERTONES To create cohesion between these two distinctly different shades, you need to find some common ground with their tones. For shades on the warm side, you should look for a blue with nearly hints of deep green and pinks with warm, brownish tones. On the cool side of the spectrum, veer navy towards purple tones, and the pink back towards blue. CHOOSE THE DOMINANT SHADE Both navy blue and rose quartz are striking colours in their own right, but to achieve a truly stylish space you need to make sure they’re not fighting for prominence. When…

NEED TO KNOW Say yes to colour New to the paint scene comes YesColours, a collection of eco-friendly, feel-good paints in astonishing colours. First and foremost, the UK brand has produced a palette of over 40 delicious shades that will transform your home in an instant, plus it has also taken on the UK paint waste issue head on, swapping out tricky-to-recycle paint tins for fully recyclable pouches. Starting at 1 litre in size, they help to reduce excess paint waste too. Aiming to bring joy to homes and inspire imaginations, YesColours’ rich shades and eco credentials result in a big fat YES from us. IH LOVES... Scallop pendant lights Scallop two-tone, hand-finished pendants, £390 each, David Hunt Lighting WE KEEP SEEING… STATEMENT PARASOLS Not only do they create a…

1 “I created an impactful entrance” “Nothing STANDS STILL for long in our HOME . Next, I’d like to line the staircase with 600 suspended 3D BUTTERFLIES” ‘Balancing old and new was a careful consideration when we bought this property. We reconfigured the ground floor, opening up the space and incorporated the adjoining garage into the kitchen. We also added generous steel-framed doors to mark the transition between the entrance and the rest of the house. I enjoy the drama they bring and how they draw the eye towards the pendant light by Mathieu Challières which adds a playful element.’ 2 “Candy colours always pep up a scheme" ‘I’ve always been drawn to those hues because they provide a pop of colour that’s easy to live with, as well as…

After many years spent living in Johannesburg, Lisa Storer and her partner Brad were keen to build a new home with a strong connection to the land. ‘It was time to shift gears, so we found a plot in a grassy region known as the Highveld, an hour from the city,’ says Lisa. Having left her role as a retail buyer to open an interiors and lifestyle store called The Storer, Lisa found it a challenge to juggle a new career alongside a new build. However with the help of architect Adrian Morris of Morris & Co, the couple devised their new home as a contemporary interpretation of a farmhouse with a pool and pavilion set away from the main building. ‘We looked at the landscape and the light first,…

COOL FEATURE The verandah has been designed to provide shade on warm days so that the internal spaces don’t overheat. ‘We knew how deep the verandah should be to provide shade for the big windows downstairs. The plank widths allowed us to control the detailing on the corners too,’ explains Jonathan. EXTRA SPACE A well-planned out, protected, external shaded area can provide an extended living space and is great for alfresco dining. It’s also an extension of the play area for the children on a rainy day. MATERIALS The timber is untreated half lap Siberian larch from Vastern Timber. As it is protected from the elements it won’t suffer from water marking. It costs around £75sq m for untreated versions.…

1. MELAMINE FLOORING Although carpet is the most traditional flooring to opt for in a bedroom, when it comes to a child’s room, it’s no longer the most practical option. Melamine or laminate flooring offers an easy-clean surface, will help to insulate as well as soundproof a room and is both comfortable and safe for little people to play on. Add softness and warmth with a colourful rug. IH LOVES… • Quick-Step for a range of flooring options • Wickes has cost-effective designs to choose from • La Redoute has some beautiful rugs 2. PAINTED BUNK BEDS The ultimate sleeping space for siblings or visiting playmates, bunk beds are ideal for saving on precious floor space. There are plenty of configurations to choose from too, such as a…

Dreaming of an outdoor space which is low-effort and looks great? Maybe it’s time to pimp your patio, creating a hardworking area that will see you through the summer months and beyond. We asked two garden designers and a flooring expert what it takes to create the perfect patio. START WITH A PLAN ‘Focus on how you will be using the space, and with who, rather than just the elements you want to include,’ says Victoria. ‘Do you want a sunny spot for a morning coffee or a place to unwind with a glass of wine as the sun sets? Will you need shade for the kids to play at the weekends? Think about the feel you want the space to have rather than “things”.’ ‘Think about your house and…

From paint effects and colour blocking to wallpapering above the dado, below it and all around, starting with a neutral backdrop is exactly what a space needs to let the rest of the decor shine. While timber panelling tends to go in and out of fashion as often as mini skirts do, each time it makes a comeback, it comes tweaked with a whole new focus. The look of the moment is all about pale wood – less is most definitely more with a pared-back style that creates the perfect neutral setting. This look however, does have the tendency to divide opinion. Done right, you’re well on your way to channelling an elegant Scandi vibe. Do it wrong and your home may look like a sauna. As no one really…

Redesigning their garden was on Louise and Marcus Smith’s ‘to do’ list when they bought their Victorian London home in 2018, but it became a priority during the first lockdown in 2020 when they had nowhere to relax outside. ‘The garden was a jungle of overgrown plants and broken paving, so we couldn’t use it,’ explains Louise. The couple had previously owned a garden that they had tried to design themselves but their lack of plant knowledge meant it was never quite what they had hoped for. ‘Since we plan on being here for many years, we decided to invest in the garden and commission a garden designer to help us to create a beautiful outdoor space to complement the house.’ They enlisted the help of designer Joanna Archer (joannaarchergardendesign.com…

Transforming your garden will create mess, so plan ahead to smooth the way. • THE CLEAR-UP There are two common methods; skip hire or muckaway. Consult your council and waste removal companies to find out what’s best for your project. If you’re hiring a professional, establish if clearance is included. • ACCESS ISSUES If you don’t have direct access to your garden, ask neighbours or the council for permission. • SKIP HIRE Hire a skip for large amounts of soil, rubble and plants; expect to pay up to £200. You need a licence from your local council to put a skip on a public road. Your landscaper can organise this for you; make sure you ask to see the permit. • CHECK LIMITS A landscaper will need to pay a…

1 VERSATILE STYLE A timber window frame can be finished in a colour of your choice to suit your scheme. 2 GLAZING OPTIONS The frames are suitable for use with both double and triple glazing and you can install slim profile versions, too. 3 LONG LASTING Timber frames will last up to 60 years and can be repaired once they show signs of wear and tear. The material is considered sustainable as it’s from a renewable source. 4 TIMELESS LOOK Depending on the style of frame you opt for, they’re an ideal choice for heritage properties and modern buildings alike. 5 TREATMENT IS ESSENTIAL Bear in mind that the timber must be properly treated, otherwise it can be susceptible to rot and expansion.…

No matter how adept you may be at interior design, it’s easy to falter when stepping outside. Learning how to choose outdoor furniture is a skill that, once mastered, will transform your space. These days, gardens are an extension of our home. They’re extra living rooms, kitchens and even home offices. Instead of merely setting up random seating, it’s important to take the time to find the best furniture for your outdoor space so you can use it to its fullest potential. The best place to start when working out how to choose outdoor furniture is by analysing your needs. Different homes and lifestyles have different requirements, and it’s key to identify these at the beginning of the process. 1 FIND THE RIGHT STYLE FOR YOUR SPACE As with interiors,…

Breakfast chilaquiles with fresh tomatillo salsa SERVES 4 READY IN 25 MINS 200g leftover tortillas or good-quality plain tortilla chips ● 300g fresh tomatillos or 350g tinned ● 1 onion, cut into 8 wedges ● 3 garlic cloves, unpeeled ● 1 jalapeño chilli, de-stemmed ● 25g coriander, leaves and stalks ● 1tbsp caster sugar ● 2tbsp olive oil ● 500ml vegetable stock or water ● Juice of 1/ 2 lime SERVING SUGGESTIONS 4 fried eggs ● Sliced avocado ● Sour cream ● Few handfuls of coriander leaves ● Crumbled feta or Lancashire cheese ● Finely chopped red onion 1 If using tortillas, cut into triangles, pour a few tablespoons of oil into a pan and shallow-fry until crisp. 2 If you have fresh tomatillos, remove the husks and wipe with…

One of my resolutions for this year was to embrace colour, and I’ve applied that to my wardrobe, and also to my home. I’m not going to lie – being more bold with colour in our home has been harder than I expected. It’s taken some courage (and a lot of tester pots!) to push myself out of my decorating comfort zone. In the past, my fall back has always been white walls, adding a splash of colour with accessories and maybe a feature wall if I was feeling daring. But I’m so glad I’ve broken free and discovered how much fun colour is to play around with! Now I’m all about celebrating colour, and using it to make me smile and inject personality into my home. One of the…

“Choose one statement item for each space, such as a patterned rug or a piece of artwork, so the room doesn’t feel crowded” HEATHER YOUNG, EDITOR START WITH THE BLUSH Don’t think of it as pink, it’s really a neutral – a barely-there flush that gives a room a layer of colour and blends in rather than contrasts. Use it to add quiet sophistication and a fresh hint of prettiness that will upgrade any look, from simple country to upscale glamour. BE BOLD WITH BLACK A smoky dark grey, with undertones of blue, coal is an off-black that has an understated sexiness to it, perfect for pairing with a delicate pink. Use it on woodwork, in window dressings and in furniture choices too. LAYER UP TEXTURES With colours that make…

“Paint the insides of your cupboards for extra daily cheer” NICKY PHILLIPS, STYLE EDITOR FIND THE PERFECT YELLOW While yellows look lovely in all forms, to make this scheme both modern and warm, you’ll want to stick to mustards, deep golds and ochres. Paler tones have a tendency to feel wishy-washy and lack impact next to dark grey. MIX IN CHARCOAL The deepest greys create a bold contrast to mellow yellows. Treat mustard as your dominant colour. Charcoal is most effective here when used in moderation – think sleek trimmings, accents and accessories. FINISH WITH CRISP WHITES To really up the ante, work in slices of bright white. Either add to sections of the walls and floor, or include in decorative accessories to give breathing space between the mustard and…

“Materials that have a matt texture, such as sisal or wool, absorb light, creating a soft, subdued effect”NICKY PHILLIPS, STYLE EDITOR RETHINK GREY Grey interiors are popular for a reason. They’re timeless, stylish and work with just about any scheme. That said, it’s time to switch these up just a little. Turn your back on flat, concrete greys and opt for shades with the softest cream and blush undertones. ADD INTEREST TO THE WALLS The aim of this colour combination is to soften and warm up neutrals. Boost the effect by choosing limewash or plaster finishes for your wall paint. The finished look will give a softer appearance than ‘flat’ greys and add textural interest. POP IN SOME PEACH You don’t need much of this pinky orange to make a…

“Green comes to life with plenty of natural light. In a dark room, pair it with mid-tone wood for warmth” JUSTYNA KORCZYNSKA, CROWN COLOUR CONSULTANT THE PERFECT PAIR These pale, fresh greens are the ideal base for a modern-country look, but can be styled to be as rustic or as polished as you like, depending on your choice of accessories. They’ll work best in bright rooms as otherwise they can look a little chilly. CHOOSE YOUR LOOK Eucalyptus green is a classic country colour. Keep it traditional by teaming with brass accessories and darker shades of green such as forest, or give it a more contemporary vibe by mixing in smart striped fabric and wallpaper, plus highlights of sage and zingy yellow. CHANNEL LAID-BACK LIVING These soft greens go with…

“Deep jewel tones are given a fresh new lease of life when teamed with soft plaster pink and modern marble textures” GINEVRA BENEDETTI, DEPUTY EDITOR REDISCOVER A GEM Emerald green is brimming with a vibrant richness and adds a sense of tranquillity and depth to any scheme. Bring this gemstone hue up to date by pairing it with contrasting rust. This stimulating yet cosy duo is ideal for a living area or snug. BRING ABOUT A RETRO REBOOT While often associated with 1970s interiors, rust orange can still offer a contemporary look when combined with furniture and lighting in modern shapes. Choose tactile fabrics such as velvet showcased on minimalist or angular designs. USE PINK AS A NEUTRAL A background of plaster pink acts as a pared-back neutral that provides…

“Putting a rich, earthy colour like terracotta on the walls will instantly make your space feel cocooning” HOLLY WALSH, CONTENT EDITOR RECREATE HOLIDAY VIBES Deep terracotta conjures images of Mediterranean roof tiles and aged ceramic pots lined up on a sun-drenched terrace. The word terracotta literally translates as ‘baked earth’, making it the perfect colour choice for adding warmth to a room scheme. PICK THE RIGHT YELLOW When choosing between shades of yellow, ochre is a grown-up choice with a mellow quality when compared to its perkier, more youthful counterparts such as lemon, buttercup or canary. This on-trend hue is a harmonious accent across a variety of schemes from retro to ultra-modern. TRUST IN NATURE Terracotta and ochre are a colour combination made in heaven as they are both derived…