Advice

male and female talking and looking at model of house on desk

How to choose an architect for your self build, extension or renovation

By Claire Lloyd, Sarah Harley last updated

Finding the right architect is essential when you're hoping to turn your dream home into a reality. Here's our advice on how to find, and choose, the best one

A grand Victorian-style conservatory with a white frame, intricate detailing, and a glass roof. Large double doors open to reveal a sunlit interior with classic wooden furniture. The conservatory is attached to a stone-built home, blending traditional charm with elegant design.

Conservatory types explained — find the perfect style for your home

By Gabriella Dyson published

Explore the different types of conservatory available and learn which is best for your home, from classic Victorian styles to modern lean-to designs

Installing a kitchen island: 5 steps from planning to finishing

By Pete Wise published

Experts explain the process to follow and factors to consider when installing a kitchen island in your home, including integrated sinks and appliances.

Can you use a garden room as a bedroom? Yes, but not without considering these factors first

By Sarah Harley published

Eyeing up your garden room as a potential sleeping spot? Here's everything you need to know before you use your garden room as a bedroom

Close-up of reversible decking board ends

Should decking grooves face up or down? Experts explain which way they should go and why

By Steve Jenkins published

If you’re laying a deck, you’ll probably be wondering decking grooves should face up or down? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think

Paved patio in foreground with house with large deck in background

Decking vs paving: Which is going to work best for your next garden project?

By Steve Jenkins published

Decking vs paving is a common question when planning to build an outdoor space. Here we look at the pros and cons for both options

How to

Installing a kitchen island: 5 steps from planning to finishing

By Pete Wise published

Experts explain the process to follow and factors to consider when installing a kitchen island in your home, including integrated sinks and appliances.

Close-up of reversible decking board ends

Should decking grooves face up or down? Experts explain which way they should go and why

By Steve Jenkins published

If you’re laying a deck, you’ll probably be wondering decking grooves should face up or down? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think

Installing cavity wall insulation — an expert guide

By Sarah Harley, Gabriella Dyson published

Installing cavity wall insulation correctly will help you keep your home warm and avoid the expense that can result from getting it wrong. Here's what's involved

Experts reveal why you shouldn't use a pressure washer on a deck — but also when you can

By Steve Jenkins published

There are a few reasons why you shouldn't use a pressure washer on a deck. But used correctly, it can do a good job. Here, the pros tell you how

Man adding new wooden deck plank with drill next to him

Want to know how to repair decking to keep it looking good? Experts share their tips

By Steve Jenkins published

Learn how to repair decking and say goodbye to rotting timbers and cracked and scratched composite

Painter/decorator holding wallpaper ready to put up brown wallpaper in a corner

Learn how to wallpaper corners for a professional-looking finish

By Steve Jenkins last updated

Learning how to wallpaper corners will give your inner and outer corners neat, straight edges for a professional-looking finish. Here's how to get it right

Ideas

The best living room extension ideas should expand your space and improve your outdoor connection. We explore five that perfectly meet the brief

By Sarah Harley published

Looking for living room extension ideas? We take a deep dive into five inspirational projects to help get you started on your plans

living room area with modern simply clad staircase with metal spindles and handrail, blue sofa, built in storage below

44 modern staircase ideas to elevate your interior

By Amy Reeves, Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated

Modern staircase ideas can transform a simple set of steps into an integral part of your interior design. Here's how to take your home to the next level

large kitchen conservatory extension with double sets of white patio doors and roof lantern

26 conservatory ideas to add space and improve your outdoor connection

By Amy Reeves, Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated

Choose your conservatory ideas well and you can turn your spare outdoor space into a comfortable, stylish and practical room you can use all-year-round

kitchen with sage green units, part marble effect tiled splashback, forest inspired wallpaper mural above, brass wall lights, black pendant lights, hob on worktop and kitchen accessories

Kitchen wallpaper ideas will change the way you view your walls. Here's 14 ideas to whet your appetite

By Sarah Harley published

Kitchen wallpaper ideas are fast becoming a popular trend. We've curated a selection of prints, patterns and finishes to bring your walls to life

Buying Guides

Triton Showers AS2000SR Thermostatic Power Shower

How to choose a shower: What you need to know to get the best for your bathroom

By Claire Lloyd last updated

Plan well if you want your shower to be a luxury experience — there’s certainly a lot to think about, from the type of shower to the shower tray, shower head and type of enclosure

The best radiators for keeping your home warm and cosy this winter

By Natasha Brinsmead last updated

The best radiators should not only heat your home efficiently, but they should look great and enhance your interior scheme. Our collection brings together the top designs, no matter what your needs

Person putting cutlery into integrated dishwasher with grey kitchen cabinet doors in background

6 best integrated dishwashers for high-quality cleaning

By Amy Reeves, Jack Woodfield, Natasha Brinsmead, Steve Jenkins last updated

Looking for one of the best integrated dishwashers to take over dishwashing duties? We’ve put together a list that covers all bases and will help you make the right decision for you and your kitchen

Close up of green cordless strimmer head cutting grass

6 best cordless strimmers to help your lawn look its best

By Jack Woodfield last updated

We've scoured the market for the best cordless strimmers to help you choose the perfect tool to keep your lawn and garden looking neat and tidy with minimal effort

dehumidifier in panelled hallway in between wooden console table and dark grey internal door

The best dehumidifiers for condensation, mould, bedrooms and drying laundry

By Natasha Brinsmead last updated

The best dehumidifiers help eliminate condensation, prevent damp and mould, dry your laundry and even cut energy bills. Here's our tried and tested favourites

Front of red petrol lawn mower on long grass

Best petrol lawn mowers to give your grass a neat clean cut

By Jack Woodfield, David Hilton, Steve Jenkins last updated

Give your garden the love and attention it needs with one of the best petrol lawn mowers on the market. Here you’ll find a range to suit all gardens and budgets