These planning reforms are coming in 2026
The government has proposed a raft of new planning reforms — here's what self builders and renovators need to know
Advice
Where to spend and where to save on your self-build to make your project budget go further
Our self-build expert reveals which elements are worth investing in and where smart compromises can help keep costs under control
Thinking about renovating a 1950s house? Wait right there – here's what the architects want you to know first
The pros and cons of buying a 1950s house to modernise, as revealed by the experts
Can planning permission be withdrawn? Get the lowdown on whether it's a myth, risk or reality
If you’re concerned about whether you can have your permission revoked for your project, our planning expert offers advice on what can and can’t be done
9 renovation truths every homeowner needs to hear before they begin
I share the real-life renovation truths no one warns you about and the expert advice you’ll wish you had from day one
Your Projects
‘We were bonkers’: Explore this charming Grade II-listed property completely overhauled by its owners
Taking on the restoration of a run-down Grade II-listed property and transforming it into a character-filled, energy-efficient home was an opportunity Amanda and Warren East couldn’t resist
Step inside this beautifully refurbished 1930s London home, where a ‘striking’ kitchen ceiling steals the show
After buying a house they had initially written off, David and Magali set about adding a contemporary space to form a stunning family home
‘I love seeing the surprise on people’s faces when they first walk in’ – couple transform small bungalow into a three-storey home with magnificent sea views
Ben and Ruth Prior replaced a coastal bungalow with a contemporary self-build to maximise family living space and views of the Cornish coastline
‘We have future-proofed every part of our house’ – step inside this couple’s oak frame forever home that blends character with contemporary design
Knowing this was going to be their lifetime home, Dawn and Graham Hillier put heart and soul into every aspect of their new-build project
'This house has repaid all our renovation efforts' – explore how a 1930s house has been cleverly transformed into a contemporary home packed with energy-saving features
When the owners needed more light and space, the solution was a light-filled extension that's brimming with energy-efficient ideas
Reckless move or stroke of genius? Couple bid for a small, damp bungalow at auction, which had already been refused planning permission for a new home
For these novice self-builders, demolishing a semi-detached bungalow to make way for a contemporary detached family home wasn't an easy ride
How To
Avoid post-Christmas chaos with these clever decoration storage hacks
Before you pack away your Christmas décor, read these expert-approved storage ideas
Do you know how to replace a kitchen tap? Find out how in this easy-to-follow DIY guide
Say goodbye to dripping taps, costly installation and say hello to a smart new drip-free tap
How hard is it to fit a kitchen sink waste? Experts reveal it's not as hard as you think
With this guide and a few basic tools, you can fit a kitchen sink waste yourself without any worries
What should you know before laying kitchen floor tiles? The experts reveal simple secrets for a successful job
Find out how to choose the right tiles, tile pattern, prepare the floor and lay kitchen floor tiles
Ideas
Experts reveal the best kitchen worktop on a budget — but it might not be a match for your home
Designers agree on the most affordable kitchen worktop, but whether it’s right for your home depends on how you use your space
People with organised homes swear by these concealed kitchen storage ideas
Don’t let your drawers do all the hard work, try these creative concealed kitchen storage ideas to organise your home
Buying Guides
The 5 best window vacs for clearing condensation, tested and approved by our team
We tested the best window vacs for tackling winter condensation – here are the winners
The best LED bulbs: 5 tested picks to brighten up your home
We tested the best LED bulbs that are long-lasting, inexpensive and help create different levels of ambience
Best angle grinder: 6 top buys for your tool shed
Wondering what the best angle grinder is for your DIY project? Here's our pick of 5 of the best you can buy right now
Best paint sprayers – our favourite picks for a professional finish
From budget buys to premium options, the best paint sprayers are a great tool to help speed up your next DIY project
