How to realistically build a savings pot, as household bills rocket

Nearly a third of people say they have no emergency savings, according to a new survey. By Vicky Shaw.

With household bills shooting upwards, the temptation to dip into emergency savings pots to cover day-to-day living costs becomes stronger. Soaring living costs also makes it harder to have any spare cash left over to put into a ‘rainy-day’ savings fund, that can be tapped into if the worst happens.

Nearly a third (31%) have no emergency savings, according to a new survey from Paragon Bank. Among those without an emergency fund to rely on, the majority (61%) say they are not in a position to save either.

The next most popular reason given for not having a rainy-day savings pot was that people are saving towards other goals. Just over one in 10 (11%) meanwhile feel they do not need an emergency savings pot, and 10% are not prioritising saving.

Among those regularly adding into their savings pots, the average amount saved each month per household was found to be £293, with men saving more than women typically.

The survey also looked at where people had placed any savings they had made during the pandemic.

More than half (57%) used a savings account, while more than a third (35%) piled excess cash in their current account. Men were significantly more likely to leave savings in a current account, with 40% of men reporting this to be the case, versus 29% of women. One in 10 (11%) had invested savings in the stock market.

Derek Sprawling, savings director at Paragon Bank, says: “As a general guideline, we’d advise people to save up enough money to cover at least three months’ expenses.”

Struggling to save? For those looking to build an emergency savings pot but struggling to have much to cash to save, here are some tips…

1. Use ’round ups’ to regularly save small amounts

Autosaving apps may round up your spending to the nearest pound and automatically put it into a savings account. It might be baby steps but it all adds up over time. These apps may also help calculate how much you can afford to save regularly, and automatically move the money into savings.

MoneySavingExpert.com has more information about these apps and how they work (moneysavingexpert.com/savings/auto-saving-apps).

2. Make the most of current account switching offers

Some current account providers are offering big amounts of cash to switch. The money could be used to kick-start a savings habit. For example, Santander recently launched a new £140 cashback offer to eligible customers who switch to a Santander current account and First Direct is offering £150 to switchers. NatWest is also offering £150 to customers who switch their main current account.

Switching is straightforward when using the Current Account Switch Service (Cass).

3. Cut your household bills

You could try to create some ‘spare’ money that can be put into savings by shopping around and haggling with service providers. For example, Which? recently found that households could potentially make significant savings by haggling with their broadband provider.

It asked people whose contracts had ended on their mobile, their broadband or their broadband and TV package whether they had haggled or switched. Nearly half (46%) had haggled with their existing provider when their contract ended. They reported saving an average £85 on broadband, £128 on broadband and TV and £35 on mobile bills. A fifth (19%) had switched away to another provider, saving an average £35 on broadband, £65 on broadband and TV and £40 on mobile bills.

4. Don’t leave money sitting where it is earning little or zero interest

If you’re trying to build up an emergency savings pot, you’ll want to put it in an account where you can access it quickly if needed. While rates on cash savings may fall far short of the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rate of inflation, currently at 5.4%, it’s still worth checking out the ‘best buy’ savings products, to help limit the damage caused by surging living costs.

If you have some money that can stay put for the long-term, you could consider a stocks and shares Isa. This could produce bigger returns over the longer term than leaving the money in cash, although there is the risk that the value of your pot could go down as well as up.

5. Saving for your first home? Consider a Lifetime Isa

With house prices having rocketed recently, first-time buyers face spending at least six times their annual wages to get on the property ladder in nearly half (45%) of Britain’s local authority areas, according to recent research from Nationwide Building Society.

Lifetime Isas can help aspiring first-time buyers to build up a savings pot more quickly than they would have been able to otherwise. You must be 18 or over but under 40 to open a Lifetime Isa and you can put in up to £4,000 per year. A 25% bonus will be added to your savings, up to a maximum of £1,000 per year.

Romantic homewares: A dozen darling ways to win hearts at home

Home is where the heart is, after all. By Sam Wylie-Harris.

Whether you’re staying in or going out, Valentine’s Day celebrations begin at home – so why not make it a day to remember with a special pressie to pimp up their pad, or yours?

A desirable display, sexy seating, a little love message, or something sweet or super-groovy is where it’s at in the loved-up world of interiors.

Here’s what’s on the hot list and pulling our heartstrings right now…

1. George Home Body Vase, £12, Direct.asda.com

With its curvaceous body and attractive silhouette, this va-va-voom vase will bring a smile, with or without a bouquet.

2. Silver Valentine’s Rose, £24, Engravers Guild of London

Who wouldn’t want to wake up with an everlasting rose on their pillow? Plated in sterling silver, a gift box and engraving are included.

3. Retro Cursive Love Embroidered Cushion Pink/Coral, £45, Stripy Heart Embroidered Cushion Pinks, £49.50 (others from a selection), Bombay Duck

Pop art and pom-poms – a magic combo. These stylish slogan cushions can be scattered here, there and everywhere.

4. Ola Dusty Pink Velvet Tub Chair, £495, Oliver Bonas

This glamorous cocktail chair is perfect for posing. Cheeky Cosmopolitan cocktail optional.

5. Pink Round Bedside Rug with Red Heart, £32, Rockett St George

Flirty and fluffy, even Cupid would be lovestruck with this attention-grabbing rug.

6. Twist Candle Pink, £26, Monday

Pretty in pink, this handmade decorative double-act is almost too good to light, and oh-so fun to look at.

7. Darling! Heart Trinket Dish Darling Rose, and Heart Trinket Dish Lovely Aqua, £9.50 each, Bombay Duck

Whether for knick-knacks, baubles or bon-bons, shout it loud with these neat novelty dishes.

8. Midas Kiss Gold Lips Planter, £49.95, Antique Gold Peace Hand Vase, £36, Ribbed Martini Cocktail Glasses – Set of 4, £44, Anouk Red Velvet and Rattan Armchair, £575 (other items from a selection), Audenza

It’s bound to be love at first sight with this decadent red velvet accent chair, which channels glam Seventies nightclub vibes. However, if it’s a little over budget, the gold lips planter deserves a date-night kiss.

9. Pyramid Glasses Poster, currently from £9.72 (was from £14.95, frame not included), Desenio

With rosé champagne on the cards, this funky poster is the perfect backdrop for loved-up selfies or styling a romantic corner for celebratory cocktails.

10. Peony Blooming Marvellous Mug, from £12.50, Sophie Allport

A sweet way to show your feelings, peonies symbolise love, happiness and good fortune.

11. STAR by Julien Macdonald Lyra Mirrored 2 Drawer Dressing Table, £259, Dressing Table Mirror, £129, Mirrored Stool, £129, Feathered Shade Brushed Gold Table Lamp, £67 (was £99), Freemans

This dazzling dressing table set has a sprinkling of Hollywood stardust, especially with its mirrors and silver detailing, matching velvet stool and feather table lamp to set their heart aflutter. Fabulous.

12. Peachskin Quilted Bedspread in Petal Pink, £98 (other items from a selection), The French Bedroom Company

And so to bed… This beautiful bedspread in soft pink can be styled up with romantic ruffle pillows for maximum impact. Plus its mid-weight, so suits most seasons and drapes like a dream. Bliss.

7 ways to make your home feel happy this winter

And you’ll be so much happier too, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

As the saying goes, home is where the heart is – and it’s amazing how a little bit of love and attention around the house can improve your wellbeing.

We’re not just talking the typical new year clear-out, deep-cleans and getting organised. But the little things that make all the difference.

From finishing touches like switching your succulents around, grouping plants differently, or hanging them in a different space where there’s plenty of light – and then wondering why in the world you didn’t place them there in the first place, when you notice the happiness it brings every time you walk in the door. This same principle can apply with so many things.

Here’s how to give your home – and yourself – a happiness boost to see you through the rest of winter…

1. Go through your photos and refresh your favourite pictures

Whether you have a nest of photo frames or one or two on a shelf, those moments you’ve captured hold a special place, and it’s funny how we forget to update our displays to reflect what’s going on in our lives right now.

Alternatively, take time out to reflect and look back on the past. Nostalgia makes us feel good and keeping old memories fresh in your mind will make your surroundings feel that much more special.

2. Move the furniture around

If the short gloomy days are getting you down, think about moving the sofa or your favourite cosy chair to face more daylight. Chances are it’s still in the same place as before the clocks moved back, when sunlight streaming through the window was more an irritant causing glare on the TV screen. Now, a little light therapy with a furniture switch-around could work wonders.

3. Cash in on calming candlelight

There’s a reason posh hotels and restaurants always have scented candles burning, no matter the time of day – they look and smell good, and evoke a feeling of wellbeing and happiness. And don’t forget, you can always use LED pillar candles or votives to great effect, especially if you’ve got young kids and prefer to avoid flames.

4. Style up soft materials and layer blankets with cushions, throws and fleeces

Playing with texture and draping blankets along the back of the sofa, maximising those scatter cushions (think about being crafty and making a DIY pillow out of an old knitted jumper), and placing draft excluders at the base of the door (again, being imaginative and using a little’uns soft cuddly toy they’ve grown out of can bring smiles all round) will make everything feel that much cosier and welcoming.

5. Sort out your summer wardrobe

It’s hardly surprising January is the busiest time of year for booking a holiday – it’ something to look forward to and makes us feel good. But even if you haven’t got round to topping up your happiness levels with thoughts of far-flung places, or a big holiday is off the cards this year, sorting your clothes out will. Now’s the perfect time to shift through summer stuff and edit out anything you know you’re never going to wear again… Oh-so satisfying.

6. Pencil in a reading hour

So many of us love reading, but it’s not always easy to find the time. Snuggling down with a good book is a brilliant form of escapism though, and regular readers say it relaxes them, and helps them feel less stressed and depressed.

According to a survey by Worldbooknight, adults who read for just 30 minutes a week are 20% more likely to report greater life satisfaction. Plus it’s a great excuse to refresh your bookcase, or rearrange those glossy magazines, and get to grips with that novel you squirrelled away years ago.

7. Plant life

We’ve touched on sprucing up your succulents, but don’t forget how mood-boosting houseplants will give your home a whole new look and feel. From a mini herb garden (easy to grow and great for kitchen windowsills) to pots of lavender (excellent for easing stress and aiding sleep), to a Peace Lily (easy to care for and cited as one of the best indoor plants for cleaning and moisturising the air), all greenery looks gorgeous and will breathe new life into any room.

Is it better to have one big holiday each year or lots of little trips?

As tourism opens up again, Katie Wright debates the pros and cons.

Slowly but surely, travel restrictions are easing – making more countries a viable option for holidaymakers.

And after nearly two years of the pandemic, many of us are raring to make up for lost time, and put our passports to good use in 2022.

But when it comes to travel, is it better to pepper your year with lots of long weekends away, or blow your holiday allowance on one mega trip?

Here, we look at the pros and cons of each…

Keep it short and sweet

If visiting as many countries as possible (and bragging about it on your social media or dating profile) is a priority, minibreaks will help you tick off plenty of destinations.

A weekend away to somewhere like Rome, Brussels or Barcelona is a (mostly) stress-free option. You don’t need to pack a whole lot, the flight is short, and, if you book far enough in advance, you can get some really cheap deals.

Psychologists often talk about anticipatory pleasure – the kind you get from having something in your diary to look forward to – and booking a bunch of mini holidays will keep you going, especially if work (or life in general) is getting you down.

Short breaks are a great way to visit pals in other places or travel with friends, and there’s less chance of arguments when you’re only away for a few days.

You might end up spending more over the course of a year compared to one big trip, but you’re spreading the cost – and you might be able to get cheap last minute deals.

Realistically, there’s only so far you’ll want to venture for a short jaunt, but that might help alleviate the eco-guilt you feel from your frequent flying – plus, there’s less chance of jet lag.

In it for the long haul

If your employer will allow it, or you don’t have a boss to answer to, holidaying for over a week is the pinnacle of forget-about-the-real-world relaxation.

Sometimes you can get home exhausted after a long weekend away – particularly if it’s a boozy city break. An extended vacation gives you time to really chill out, and you don’t feel the pressure to make memories every waking moment. You can lounge like a walrus on the beach for days, safe in the knowledge you’ll still have time to visit that castle, temple or street food market at some point.

If you prefer to get out and explore, you can see a lot more of a place when you’ve got time to island-hop in Greece, backpack around Vietnam or road trip through the USA. While long haul flights are pricier (and more uncomfortable), you can jet all the way to countries where the cost of living is lower, and you might save money while you’re there.

A longer trip is ideal for a solo adventurer, because you’ve got lots of time to make friends and keep your options open, in case you want to switch up your plans and head in the same direction as your new buddies.

Plus, you can jump on cheap trains and buses as you travel around, which might help alleviate some of the guilt of your carbon-intensive flight home.

Homes Under The Hammer’s Martin Roberts on why ignoring repairs is a big mistake

The property expert tells Vicky Shaw how to weigh up the costs when considering repairs, and which jobs to prioritise.

Home repairs can be expensive – but ignoring them can cost even more in the long run.

Three-quarters (75%) of homeowners across the UK need to have repairs done, and half (50%) say delaying repairs in the past has ended up costing them more than an early fix would have.

The research, published by Gas Safe Register, found homeowners failing to act quickly could be left £1,876 out of pocket on average, with one in 20 (5%) spending £5,000 or more eventually getting repair jobs done.

Gas Safe Register has teamed up with Homes Under The Hammer’s Martin Roberts to help people understand the financial and health impacts of putting off repair jobs.

Roberts has shared his top tips on which repair jobs are worth it – and what can happen if issues are ignored…

If a house hunter sees several repair and maintenance issues when viewing a property, should that put them off buying it?

Roberts says: “No, it could be an opportunity to add value, but it’s important to know what damage might have been done through lack of maintenance – and it’s important to be able to tell the difference between superficial damage, and more serious long-term effects.”

What can house hunters do to work out whether the repairs needed would still make a house worth purchasing?

“At this stage, it’s probably time to call in tradesmen to give estimates for remedial works – they will be able to give a realistic assessment of the costs involved,” Roberts advises.

What’s your advice for homeowners working out how much property issues would cost to repair – should people get a range of quotes, and how many quotes would be appropriate?

“I would recommend ideally getting three quotes, and make sure they’re written – not just verbal ones. You can tell a lot about their professionalism from how the quotes are presented. And always ask for references and examples of previous work!”

How can people work out which repair jobs to prioritise, if there are more jobs than their budget will immediately cover?

Roberts says: “The priority has to be given to those that could give rise to safety concerns – like the maintenance of your gas appliances, for example.

“Poorly maintained gas appliances – such as boilers, cookers or gas fires – can not only put you at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, but it can also leak gas, and – in some instances – this can lead to fires and explosions. It’s therefore really important to ensure you book an annual safety [check] for your appliances with a Gas Safe Registered engineer.

“Next up would be repairs where a stitch in time will literally save nine. Things that left unchecked will cause more expensive problems in the future, such as leaking gutters.”

What’s your advice for budgeting to repair specific problems with a home – for example, should people add a certain percentage extra to deal with unexpected costs?

“Everything starts with a full assessment, which you should do in conjunction with a builder or surveyor if you’re not comfortable or experienced to do it on your own. And then whatever those schedules reveal can be budgeted – but always allow 15% to 20% contingency of the total repair cost for any unexpected issues.

“If you’re buying a house, don’t forget costs of repairs could come into negotiations on the price you’re purchasing at.”

Should homeowners keep a pot of cash to deal with general maintenance?

“You can take out maintenance contracts for a variety of potential household issues – including boiler service contracts – which will keep everything well maintained. Alternatively, if you are able to put a rainy day fund aside, that will be very useful in times of unexpected expense.”

What are the worst maintenance and repair problems you’ve seen generally with homes for sale – and are there any problems that would put you off buying a home completely?

“Gas appliances rarely seem to get the attention they deserve, because if not maintained they can be a major safety and health hazard. Drainage in all its forms (underground, gutters and downpipes) can lead to all sorts of major issues with damp – and in the worst case subsidence, if not looked after.

“As long as the price paid reflects all that’s needed to fix things, every house is worth considering – but you have to go in with your eyes open, and surround yourself with people who can help if you’re not experienced.”

Roberts’ top piece of advice is fixing things “before they multiply into more issues”.

Gas Safe Register is the UK’s official registration body for gas engineers and gas businesses. People can find and check a gas engineer by visiting gassaferegister.co.uk

10 snowdrop gardens to brighten up your winter walks

As snowdrop’s emerge from their winter dormancy, Hannah Stephenson looks at the best places to see swathes of them.

It’s always a sign of optimism when we see the first snowdrops appear, their dainty blooms emerging from the cold ground, creating white carpets which illuminate gardens.

Some of the best displays can be seen in the many gardens taking part in the National Garden Scheme’s 2022 Snowdrop Festival during January, February and March.

If you visit at least one garden awash with these pint-sized white gems, you should find innovative ways to display your own snowdrops, and may even discover some unusual species you’d like to plant.

1. Bruckhills Croft, Aberdeenshire (open by arrangement Jan 25-Mar 11 for snowdrops and winter walks. Details at scotlandsgardens.org)

If you struggle to grow snowdrops, you’ll find a planting idea or a cultivar in this three-quarter-acre country cottage garden, set in the heart of rural Aberdeenshire, which became home to a Plant Heritage National Collection of Galanthus (snowdrops) in 2021.

It houses nearly 500 varieties of snowdrop arranged in small groups among the herbaceous borders, shrubs, raised beds and an alpine greenhouse, with complementary plantings of scented witch hazels, winter jasmine and colourful dogwoods, plus thousands of common snowdrops in the wildflower meadow.

2. Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, South Yorkshire (check opening times at english-heritage.org.uk)

The site’s half a million snowdrops and 200,000 aconites cast a haze of white and yellow across the lawns and throughout the woodland floors, while winter is also the ideal time to take a stroll around the formal garden, with its sharp lines and sweeping curves.

3. East Lambrook Manor Gardens, Somerset (open from Feb I for the Festival of Snowdrops (eastlambrook.com)

Celebrated plantswoman and gardening writer Margery Fish turned a derelict farmyard and orchards into this quintessential English cottage garden between 1938 and her death in 1969. With noted collections of snowdrops and hellebores, it’s an ideal spot to gain inspiration from contemporary and old-fashioned plants, grown in a relaxed manner to create this beautiful outdoor space.

The garden, which is renowned worldwide as the premier example of the English cottage garden style, celebrates its festival of snowdrops in February, featuring around 140 species and named cultivars.

4. Welford Park, Newbury, Berkshire (Snowdrops at Welford Park, open Feb 2-Mar 6 (welfordpark.co.uk)

Famed for being the gorgeous setting for the Great British Bake Off from 2014-19, there’s always great anticipation around the first snowdrop blooms, which create a spectacular, delicately-perfumed carpet in the beech wood at Welford Park each year.

One of the finest natural snowdrop woodlands in the country, this well-established garden houses four acres of snowdrops, which light up the landscape in February, as part of the celebrated snowdrop festival.

5. Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland (for opening times, visit english-heritage.org.uk)

Wrap up warm and enjoy the delights of Belsay Hall and its garden highlights, which at this time of year, include snowdrops. In the early 18th century, Lady Anne Middleton began the tradition of the women of the house planting snowdrops in the grounds together. Now, each February, vast white carpets of the plants can be admired in the garden, fields and woodland surrounding the hall.

6. The Old Rectory, Fawkham, Longfield, Kent (visits by arrangement in Feb, ngs.org.uk)

A sea of naturalised snowdrops and aconites is among the winter highlights of this one-and-a-half-acre garden, which has been developed around the snowdrops by the current owners for more than 35 years. It’s also home to 100 named snowdrops that have been added more recently. Other highlights include pulmonarias, hellebores and other early bulbs and flowers, foliage perennials, shrubs and trees, and a natural woodland.

Wherever you wander, you will see them – naturalised in the grass, throughout borders, the mixtures of single and double-flowered types creating a white tapestry throughout the garden.

7. Timber Hill, Chobham, Surrey (open selected days through Jan, Feb and Mar; ngs.org.uk)

Visitors to this 16 acre garden – bookable through the National Garden Scheme – will find swathes of snowdrops, crocuses and aconites, as well as witch hazel, camellias a little later, and a woodland area which offers fabulous views of the North Downs.

8. Westview, Great Glen, Leicestershire (open Feb 19 and 20, pre-booking available, ngs.org.uk)

If you’re interested in rare and unusual plants, this small walled cottage garden is one to put on your list, particularly the garden’s collection of snowdrops, which make a terrific February display.

Along with a formal box parterre herb garden, courtyard garden, herbaceous borders, woodland garden, small wildlife pond, greenhouse, vegetable and fruit garden, the garden’s collection of galanthus make a beautiful display in February. Recycled materials are used to create quirky garden ornaments that inspire many visitors.

9. Gelli Uchaf, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire (for arrangements for groups, visit ngs.org.uk)

Hundreds of thousands of snowdrops, including more than 200 cultivars and a unique Welsh Snowdrop Collection, daffodils, cyclamen and crocus are planted in this stunning 1.5-acre garden, set in an 11-acre smallholding 800ft above sea level, as well as copious woodland shrubs, roses, clematis and hydrangeas.

The garden has been created to complement the restored Welsh longhouse and the setting, and features much native planting.

10. Billy Old Rectory, Bushmills, County Antrim (open Feb 12 and 13, pre-booking available through ngs.org.uk)

This spot is perfect for a winter walk, to admire the swathes of snowdrops situated within the three-acre garden around a Georgian rectory. To the front is a large lawn, mature trees and a peaceful woodland. To the back, there’s another lawn – where in the summer you’ll find a riot of colour with borders of scented roses and shrubs, a pond area and a fruitful kitchen garden.

Make a splash: How to go big and bold in the bathroom

Want to make more of this often overlooked room? Think sharp and showy, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

When it comes to making our rooms work harder, perhaps it’s time to stand back and see the bigger picture in the bathroom.

A place where we can escape the day-to-day and take time out for ourselves, this haven also has the potential to be pivotal in our decorative prowess – but all too often they’re last on our list when it comes to home styling.

“I ask clients to start by looking at the bathroom with their living room eyes,” says Emma Merry, director of Emma Merry Styling (emmamerrystyling.com) and an interior designer on Houzz.co.uk, the home renovation and design platform.

“Think of it as a place to relax with luxe touches. A space that evokes the feeling of rest and rejuvenation, but you can definitely still have fun with the design.

“We aim to tap into all the senses, such as the tactile elements of natural stone and timbers, or the aromatic scents from natural oil steam diffusers set into purpose-built niches around the bath,” says Merry. “And finally, the visual impact of statement pieces.”

Many of us have taken a step away from the functional all-white space over the last few years, with homeowners and designers on Houzz making bolder design choices, investing more in their wash space and embracing a more varied palette.

“In 2021, the term ‘blue bathroom’ shot up by 170% in searches and the term ‘pink bathroom’ doubled in popularity, while ‘green tiled bathroom’ saw an increase of more than a third,” says Victoria Harrison, editor, Houzz.co.uk.

“Dark tones are also proving popular, with searches for ‘black shower’ rising significantly.”

Blending function with flair, if you’d like to dip your toe into a more maximalist bathroom design, professionals on Houzz recommend starting with the cloakroom or downstairs toilet (if you have one separate to the main bathroom).

“This smallest room is the perfect place to have some fun, whether you choose a dramatic wallpaper, interesting tiling or a gold ceiling, the options are endless,” suggests Harrison.

Think out of the bathroom box

“Just as living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms become hybrid spaces to enable working from home, our bathrooms are also spaces that should work hard and offer versatility,” says Lauren Kavanagh, Hovia’s creative designer.

“Consider flexible, multi-use pieces for your bathroom to optimise the space you have,” Kavanagh adds.

“Cater for more compact bathrooms by opting for vanity units that feature removable storage baskets, or boxes that can be moved or adapted with use over time.”

Remember, there might be pockets of space that can be used up more wisely – like beneath a sink or basin.

Depending on your budget, don’t feel like everything needs to focus on the bath tub, even though we’d all love to slip effortlessly into a luxurious freestanding bath. But there’s a whole room to play with.

“I’ve built a design around a sink before,” says Merry. “We started with a one-of-a-kind terrazzo basin, which we wall mounted with satin brass taps, and we let this be the focal point for the room. Paired with a muted colour palette of soft sage and creamy taupe, we laid the tiles in a stripe pattern in key areas of the room.

“The overall effect is still a calming space,” she adds, “but the design is that little bit more exciting and allows the beauty of that key piece to shine.”

Create a wonder wall with tiling or wallpaper

Focusing attention on the walls is a perfect way to jazz up a bathroom, with scope to really create an impact if you go for a bold, striking design.

“Incorporating a tile with a striking print can instantly refresh your bathroom space,” says Kavanagh. “Pair bold tiles with colour block walls, for a contrasted look that excites the eye but isn’t overwhelming in a small space.”

Larger thank life and another game-changer, Kavanagh says patterned geometric, botanical or texture effect wallpaper is a great way to bring in personality, warmth and character.

“Also, experiment with cork for its natural beneficial properties for this room, such as its resistance to mould and mildew.”

Colour code and accessorize

As Kavanagh puts it: “Use confident colours as a simple yet impactful way to create bathrooms with personality. An effective way to go bold in bathrooms is to strike a balance between brights and more muted tones, which brings newness to staple pieces.

“Instantly modernise a space with towelling, bathroom fixtures and hard accessories in solid, more primary colours.

“Combine multiple textures to create a playful, maximalist atmosphere,” adds Kavanagh. “Try mosaic surfaces, rattan baskets, wooden accessories, woven rugs, or fill empty spaces with house plants that thrive in damp conditions.”

And if the budget is tight and a complete restyle is out of the question, there are lots of ways to update a look by switching up accessories.

“If you’re low on cupboards, try hanging storage,” suggests Kavanagh. “Hanging baskets in the shower and on the walls is a fun, creative way to keep all of your toiletries and towels tidy.

“It’s also a much simpler DIY option if the thought of putting up shelves makes you panic!”

Getting organised: 11 stylish ways to clear up your clutter

Start as you mean to go on, says Sam Wylie-Harris. It’s a goal we all aspire to, getting organised.


Even if you love clutter, you want your clutter to be catalogued and for everything to have its place – so although a good old rummage might still be required, it’s not too much of a nightmare when you’re trying to hunt something down.

And then of course, you might be so minimalist that tidy is your second name – in which case ensuring you have enough stylish storage solutions to house all those bits ‘n’ bobs is essential.

Either way, if one of your New Year resolutions is to have a stellar sort out, these handy homewares will help you make those getting-organised dreams a reality…

1. Bembridge Storage Baskets, from £35, Garden Trading

Sturdy storage baskets can be a godsend when it comes to folding away tea towels, wash day sprays and laundry soap, although you could really use them for anything. Rustic and resilient.

2. Kitchen Trolley with Bamboo Top, £199, A Place for Everything

A quick kitchen fix, this island on wheels will not only double up as a scullery chef for all those cooking utensils, but can be placed strategically for serving, plating and most importantly, storage. Genius.

3. Rope Hanging White Storage Baskets, £32, Next

A tip-top trio, these hanging rope baskets lend themselves to any nook or cranny. Ideal for toiletries and beauty buys, they could even be filled with faux flowers if all your vases are full.

4. Large Spoon Storage Box, £22, Natalia Willmott

A soft solution for kitchen towels and knick-knacks, you could also stand cutlery and napkins inside so they’re within easy reach.

5. Cupboard & Fridge Organiser (middle shelf), £1.50, B&M stores

Olive oil, pepper mills and spices can be a messy business… Not with a bargain handy organiser to keep them neat.

6. Felt Woven Storage Caddy, £22, Next

If you’ve been getting crafty lately with a newfound hobby, or working from home means you need a carry-all for cables and techy stuff, this felt caddy could do the job nicely.

7. Slimline Slogan Boxes, £2.50 each, B&M Stores

These italic-style slogans might inspire a host of cleaning products for multiple surfaces, but they can also double up for magazines, filing and even outdoor storage.

8. Smartstore Basket Medium – Just Base, £6, Just Lid, £9, or £15 for the set, A Place for Everything

These white plastic storage baskets with a stylish Scandi-inspired bamboo lid are ideal for staking, and so versatile they can multitask anywhere in the home, from a utility room to the bedroom or even the garage.

9. Bloomingdale Valde Clothes Rack, £385, Sweatpea & Willow

An investment piece for sure, but if you especially like an open design, this neat clothes rack means you can hang key pieces with confidence, and the five fixed shelves are ideal for shoes, accessories and baskets.

10. Jewellery Box – Moona – Natural & White, £50, A Place for Everything

Trinkets: Tick. Timepiece: Tick. Reading specs: Tick. This stylish jewellery box ticks so many boxes.

11. Kubu Stair Storage Basket by Pacific, £44, Next

If you have a roomy enough staircase, this stylish storage basket could be just the ticket for tucking away scarves and hats or blankets. We love that it also has an easy carry handle and oozes county chic.

Christmas gift guide: Prize presents for active outdoorsy types

Delight your favourite fresh air lover, walker and outdoor fitness fan with one of these top picks. By Abi Jackson.

Something that’s genuinely useful, lovely and will help your loved one keep up their active pursuits is always a win for outdoorsy types.

Whether you’re shopping for a ‘big main present’ or something to tuck under the tree, check out these ideas…

ZONE3 Women’s Aspect ‘Breaststroke’ Wetsuit, £159 (zone3.com)

If they’ve dived deeper in love with cold water swimming this year, a wetsuit might be a welcome investment. This Aspect suit from ZONE3 is made to allow more lateral leg movement than many other swimming wetsuits, making it ideal for people who prefer breaststroke to front crawl. We love the snazzy design with neon cuffs for extra visibility and high-stretch nylon panels for a smoother swim. Comes in men’s too, sizes XS-XL.

Proviz REFLECT360 Explorer Fleece-Lined Bobble Beanie – Grey, £24.99 (provizsports.com)

Proviz are leaders of the pack when it comes to reflective kit, and this snug bobble hat is ideal for winter walks – even if it’s just coming back from work or the shops after dark. The outer layer features Proviz’s ultra-reflective REFLECT360 yarn, above a soft and breathable micro-fleece lining.

Alpkit Soundbite Bluetooth Speaker and Camping Lantern, £24.99 (was £34.99; alpkit.com)

Space and weight-saving kit is always a win for campers. This compact rechargeable speaker from British brand Alpkit doubles up as a lantern with three brightness settings, and there’s a handy hook for hanging it up, plus a magnetic clip for use on bikes or in the car.

Rab Mens Infinity Microlight Jacket in Firecracker, £216 (was £240, trekitt.co.uk)

Jackets are a top bit of kit for outdoorsy sorts – and if they’re hoping to upgrade then Rab’s Infinity Microlight is worth a look. A great choice for hill walkers, it’s insulated with recycled down with a Gore-Tex Infinium membrane for warmth and breathability in changeable conditions. There’s also a hood, three zipped pockets, cord-adjustable hem and snazzy choice of colours. We love this Firecracker orange.

Nuasan Recovery Bundle, £69 (nuasan.com)

A hot shower or soak and some pampering skincare after a long day out in the elements is therapeutic and a treat. This ‘recovery bundle’ from Nuasan includes a muscle gel enriched with CBD, and a natural cork massage ball to help ease out those knots and tight spots from tired muscles.

On Cloudrock Waterproof Hiking Boot, £180 (on-running.com)

Looking for a hiking boot that ticks some serious technical boxes – but is also lightweight and stylish? Featuring On’s signature pocketed soles for a flexible, responsive stride, this time with Missiongrip™ rubber for added grip out on the trails, the Cloudrocks are wind and waterproof and promise comfort in all elements. There’s a fab choice of colours; we love these pecan/brown ones.

Maaree Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra, £64 (maaree.com)

A good sports bra can be worth its weight in gold for those who need a bit of extra high-impact support. This one from Maaree has been getting rave reviews and scooped a Women’s Running magazine ‘Best in Test’, with sizes 30C to 38G available in two colours.

Critically Endangered Socks All 3 Speckled, £29.99 (criticallyendangered.co.uk)

Good socks are always a joy. Whilst these aren’t made for hard-going hikes, they’re made to last and are super soft – perfect for switching into on rest days and lounging after a day outdoors. Brand founder Dom was inspired to set up Critically Endangered after a trip to Borneo, with a percentage of sales helping support efforts to tackle rainforest destruction and protect endangered animals like orangutans.

Lululemon Rulu Run Cropped 1/2 Zip Top, £88 (lululemon.co.uk)

Ideal for winter running – or wearing under a waterproof for cold-weather walks – this body-skimming top has long cuffs and thumb holes for keeping hands warms, plus a discreet zipped pocket for storing keys. The sweat-wicking, four-way stretch fabric is gorgeously soft and the waistline is an ideal length for fans of high-waisted leggings.

OS Packing Cubes, £32.99 (shop.ordnancesurvey.co.uk)

Ordnance Survey has a great range of kit and accessories. We love these packing cubes, featuring maps of the highest peaks in Scotland (Ben Nevis), Wales (Snowdon) and England (Scafell Pike). Having designated pouches to keep items separate in their backpack or suitcase will make packing much easier – not to mention being able to quickly find things without a ton of rummaging.

Sundried 30L Trekking Backpack, £65 (sundried.com)

A fab all-rounder whether they’re hitting the hills, gym or just lugging kit on the daily commute, this roomy backpack is loaded with pockets and compartments to keep shoes, bottles, clothes and any important essentials separate. There’s also a rain cover that tucks away into a pocket at the base, padded back panels, straps and waist belt, and a special pocket for adding a hydration bladder if needed.

Alpkit Definition Women’s Mountaineering Waterproof Jacket, £249.99 (alpkit.com)

If they’ve really caught the hiking bug and are plotting to tackle year-round climbs, Alpkit’s Definition jacket not only looks super stylish, it ticks some serious technical design boxes too. With 3-layer construction, it’s waterproof, windproof and breathable, promising enhanced protection against the elements, as well as durability thanks to the abrasion-resistant outer fabric.

5 basic design principles for creating a beautiful modern home – whatever your budget

Design guru Matt Gibberd tells Lisa Salmon that using space, light, materials, nature and decoration cleverly will help make a home gorgeous.

Having a beautiful home has never felt more important than during the past 18 months when we’ve been forced to spend more time inside our own four walls – and you may have longed to transform yours into a beautiful modern living space.

But if a lack of know-how or limited finances held you back, it’s not too late to get started. For design guru Matt Gibberd insists it can be easy to create a gorgeous home without spending a fortune, just by implementing five simple design principles.

“If you ask me, a Palladian villa, for example, has the same sensibility as a masterpiece of the modernist era, and has been designed according to the same set of timeless principles,” he says.

View this post on InstagramA post shared by The Modern House (@themodernhouse)

“A simple way to think of these principles is to distil them into five categories – space, light, materials, nature and decoration.

“Paying careful consideration to each of these will allow you to create a home that’s beautiful, supportive and inspiring, regardless of scale or budget.”

Gibberd, who is a founding director of the design-led estate agency The Modern House, has just written the book A Modern Way to Live, in which he outlines the five principles and how to best use them to create a beautiful home.

Here he gives us a taste of exactly how to do it…

1. Space

Gibberd explains that when a home combines both space and “refuge” areas it can help make occupants feel settled. He suggests: “Try to create an open and bright space for socialising, and a womb-like space for retreating and sleeping. Even in a studio flat, creating different zones using a curtain, sliding partition or bookcase on castors can greatly enhance the experience of occupying the space.”

You can create the illusion of space with mirrors and reflective surfaces, he says, by using natural niches for built-in cupboards, and continuing the same material from inside to out. Consider re-hanging doors the other way around to open up rooms, and place radiators beneath windows to free-up valuable wall space for furniture.

And don’t forget the kitchen! Gibberd advises homeowners to think of the kitchen as a collection of pieces of furniture rather than a set of units, and to avoid wall cupboards if possible, as the space above them becomes redundant. And instead of a freestanding fridge-freezer, consider a pair of under-counter refrigerators side-by-side.

And then there’s the bin… “A free-standing dustbin hangs around the kitchen like a foul-smelling Dalek, tripping people up and overflowing with the remains of yesterday’s dinner,” declares Gibberd. “Try to build in the rubbish solutions – the space beneath the sink is always a useful spot for food waste, for example.”

2. Light

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Matt Gibberd (@matt_gibberd)

Gibberd says it’s better to consider fixed glazing with a conventional door alongside, rather than bifold doors. “A picture window – free of obtrusive handles and mechanisms – does a better job of framing the views and looks more beautiful because the structural supports are hidden,” he explains.

He suggests avoiding Roman blinds and pelmets, and hanging curtains from extra-wide poles so they can be pulled back to reveal the full window. And think about how the light moves around your home. “Sitting areas benefit from the enhanced light of a south-facing window,” explains Gibberd, “whereas parts of the home that are seldom used, such as utility rooms, are best placed on the northern side. The eastern side is ideal for sleeping, and dining spaces work well on the western side, where they capture the radiant embers of the day.”

If your home has more than one level, he suggests thinking about inverting the layout. “You might never get used to the idea of declaring ‘I’m going downstairs to bed’,” he admits, “but in most other respects it makes a lot of sense, unlocking the light and views for the living spaces, and using the naturally darker areas lower down the building for sleeping.”

But although light is crucial for a home, Gibberd says householders shouldn’t be afraid of the dark either. “Without areas of contrast, our homes would be one-dimensional and monotonous,” he explains. “If you walk down a shadowy corridor, for example, when you arrive at a sun-soaked space it feels all the more bright and uplifting.”

And on a brighter note, Gibberd says that if you can look straight into the filament of a lightbulb then it’s probably in the wrong place. “Shun ceiling lights in favour of task lighting, wall sconces and plug-in lamps that provide a gentler glow and better promote the circadian rhythm,” he suggests.

3. Materials

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Matt Gibberd (@matt_gibberd)

Gibberd says householders should think carefully about the things they come into physical contact with every day, including light switches, door handles or kitchen worktops. “Are these as tactile as they should be?” he asks, pointing out that natural materials will always age more gracefully than man-made plastics and laminates. “Try to preserve original materials wherever possible, as they tell the individual story of a building and induce less anxiety than new ones,” he advises.

Gibberd suggests living in a home for at least a year before making any changes. “For example, that wooden floor you thought was a bit beaten-up when you moved in might start to take on some significance – its warmth beneath bare feet, or its ability to absorb the comings and goings of daily life.”

Natural materials like marble and glazed tiles have a gentle sheen and are easy to keep clean, he says, and clay is a moisture-absorbing alternative to conventional plaster.

It’s also worth thinking about the environmental impact of the materials you use, he says, pointing out that cork, for example, is naturally regenerative because the tree grows back its bark, and farms provide some excellent sources of eco-friendly insulation, including sheep’s wool and straw bales.

4. Nature

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Matt Gibberd (@matt_gibberd)

A connection to nature is vital for wellbeing, so even those who are looking for somewhere to live in a city should try to find a flat that overlooks a communal garden, or has deep window ledges that can hold plants, suggests Gibberd.

If you’re lucky enough to have outdoor space, he suggests combining borders of shrubs and flowers with decking, compacted gravel, flint, stone setts or herringbones of brick.

And inside, stock up on the greenery. “Indoor plants positively impact our wellbeing, lowering blood pressure and increasing attentiveness, but they can also serve a practical purpose, helping to demarcate space, provide screening, absorb sound or add a flourish to an unremarkable room,” says Gibberd.

He suggests putting shells, pebbles and pinecones on the mantelpiece, using natural-looking paint colours, and hanging landscape paintings and photographs on walls.

5. Decoration

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Matt Gibberd (@matt_gibberd)

Instead of fitted carpets, Gibberd suggests trying loose-laid natural floor coverings such as sisal and jute, with a gap between the edging and the wall. Use rugs in layers and let them fill the natural spaces between furniture.

And to avoid making an interior feel one-dimensional, he says it can be a good idea to mix furniture and objects from different eras and places. “Rather than putting a set of matching chairs around the kitchen table, for example, throw a bench or a wobbly Windsor chair into the mix,” he suggests.

“Surround yourself with the objects that have the most meaning to you personally and tell the story of your life – family heirlooms, or things that remind you of a particular holiday or experience.”

He advises householders to avoid using a flat screen TV as a room’s centrepiece, and instead organise furniture traditionally around the hearth. Group furniture and objects together in odd numbers, he says, explaining: “If things are arranged asymmetrically, the eye is forced to move around them to fully absorb what it sees.”

And you may need to rethink the way your pictures are hung, he warns. “The most common mistake is to place them too high,” he points out. “My advice is to use your eye to find what feels like the right place instinctively, then take it down by six inches.”

And finally, he adds: “When choosing what to buy for your home, try to follow your instincts rather than any preconceived notions about what constitutes good taste. Many of the best things have not been celebrated on Instagram, can’t be found in textbooks, and don’t cost a great deal. Often they have an accidental beauty that’s the result of fulfilling utilitarian needs.”

A Modern Way to Live by Matt Gibberd is published on October 28 by Penguin Life, priced £25.

11 stylish ways to use monochrome in your home

A black and white palette is always in the here and now, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

Like the little black dress of interiors, kitting out your home in monochrome will always be on trend.

There are a multitude of ways to work timeless black and white into your scheme – and maximize the beauty of minimalism with a dash of panache.

From attention grabbing to toned down pieces, here’s how to get the look…

1. Monochrome Eiffel Tower Art Print, from £3 (21 x 30cm, no frame or mount), Abstract House

For maximum impact, an oversized print is a scene-stealer. This image of the Eiffel Tower is available in a range of sizes, all the way up to a supersized 70 x 100cm – which costs £150 if you also go for the black frame, no mount option, to make a strong style statement.

2. Truffle Tablescapes Black Mother Of Pearl Charger Plates, Set of Two, £130, Notonthehighstreet

A beautiful combination, these charger plates with a black and white mother of pearl inlay can be styled against brass cutlery to bring some extra wow factor to the table. For the finishing touch, a white linen napkin feels luxe and rich before you’ve even polished up the glassware.

3. Cox & Cox Three Monochrome Dipped Vases, £40, Very

In keeping with the simple aesthetic of a single stem, it only takes a trio of late summer blooms or black silk roses to show off these ombre effect vases in white, grey and matte black.

4. Fritz Hansen Series 7 Dining Chairs – Monochrome, Coloured Ash, White, £383 each, Nest

Spendy but super stylish, these designer chairs are stackable, lightweight and available (alongside other options) in black and white to create a stark monochrome contrast. What’s more, they are a highly desirable collectable that will stand the test of time.

5. Johnson & White London 2 Wick Candle, £53, Johnson & White

Glamorous black candles embellished with gold details have the power to elevate the mood, especially when they’re scented with bergamot and lemon, topped with spicy pink pepper and juniper berries.

6. Idyll Home Face Lamp, £195, Notonthehighstreet

When you’re working a sharp black and white palette, something quirky always seems to pull a room together. Right on trend, this abstract face and line drawing lampshade with stoneware base will put everything in a new light.

7. De’Longhi Ballerina Kettle, £49.99, Toaster, £59.99, available in Opaline White and Furnace Black (pictured), De’Longhi

With its faceted form and gloss finish inspired by Venetian glasswork, these Ballerina kettles and toasters are modern, minimal and a majestic addition to any kitchen.

8. Aromatherapy Associates x The Laundress Wellness Addition: Support Breathe Dish Soap, £21.86, Support Breathe Surface Cleaner, £21.86, The Laundress

When it’s time to keep your monochrome scheme spic and span, what could be lovelier than these feelgood products? A new collaboration between the famous American laundry company and Aromatherapy Associates, the Wellness Addition releases soothing vapours and combines essential oils while you carry out household chores. Genius.

9. Belle Wallpaper Monochrome, £20 per roll, Ilovewallpaper

The best backdrop for your little black dress? A feature wall in this voguish wallpaper – and you can always lift the poster girl’s attractive profile with a striking palm, chic chaise longue and charcoal grey velvet cushions.

10. Paloma Home Monochrome Stripe Bed Set, from £85 (Double), Paloma Home

An extension of Paloma Faith’s taste for interiors at home, the star’s Paloma Home Collection features an array of statement prints – and this dramatic stripe bed set, combining a duvet cover with two matching pillow cases, would work like a dream alongside metallics or bleached surfaces to create an elegant bedroom.

11. Faux Fur Gold Stool, £159, Audenza

This glitzy stool is a real show stopper and, with its fabulous white faux fur seat, will fit perfectly into your glamorous monochrome room. Ta-da!

Household savings: 5 simple ways to become a smarter switcher

Some 16% of adults never review some of their key household expenses – and they could be missing out on significant sums, finds Vicky Shaw.

Around one in six (16%) adults across the UK never review some of their key household expenses.

This indicates that millions of people are potentially missing out on better deals on products and services such as their bank account, energy bills or broadband, according to the research from money app, Yolt.

Pauline van Brakel, chief product officer at Yolt, says: “Many consumers have had a challenging period financially as a result of the pandemic, and with Yolt’s own user data showing utilities bills are rising, and recent announcements such as the Ofgem energy price cap hike due later this year, it’s a good time for people to take stock of their regular outgoings to see if they could save by switching.

“Checking in on whether you are on the best deal available could save you hundreds of pounds a year.”

Wondering whether you could switch and save some money? Here are van Brakel’s tips on how to become a smarter switcher…

1. Check you have the information needed

Depending on the utility or service you are looking to switch, you may need information about your existing account, such as the name of the account holder or any security details or passwords or email addresses associated with the account.

When switching energy providers, you’ll need to check the type of contract or meter you have – for example, some suppliers may not be able to offer tariffs for pre-payment meters. Having all this information to hand will help to ensure the process goes smoothly.

2. Are there any exit fees to pay?

Check whether your existing provider charges exit fees for leaving a plan early – as unfortunately many do. Also find out when the contract ends, so you’ll be able to switch without paying a fee.

3. Are you in credit on your account?

If you pay bills by direct debit, your current energy supplier may actually owe you money. Before switching, always ask your supplier if you are in credit with them, to ensure that you are paid back anything you are owed.

4. Consider going ‘green’

In some cases, choosing to help the planet with certain providers can also help you save money. Many energy providers offer cheap rates for renewable electricity and gas deals.

5. Finally, do your research

Once you’re ready to switch, consider using price comparison websites as well as contacting providers directly. Once you’ve chosen, check who’s responsible for changing everything over. Often, new providers may do this for you, such as with the current account switch service (Cass), and it may be possible to leave the admin work to them.

House hunting this autumn? 8 questions to ask upfront when viewing properties

Asking some key questions when viewing properties could save you time and money, says Vicky Shaw.

The UK’s housing market is still going strong, as house hunters turn their attention to buying this autumn.

Bidding wars remain common, according to estate agent Hamptons, which says more than a third (38%) of homes sold in July had offers from three or more potential buyers.

If you’re a first-time buyer however, or you haven’t had much experience viewing properties before, knowing the right questions to ask upfront could help you save some time and possibly money.

It’s important to know exactly what you will be getting when you set your sights on a new home, and to avoid any unexpected costly surprises along the way.

To give home buyers a helping hand, the mortgage experts at onlinemortgageadvisor.co.uk have listed eight questions buyers could ask when viewing a property…

1. How long has the property been on the market?

If the property has been on the market for more than, say, four months, do not be afraid to ask the agent why they think it is not selling. There could be problems that other potential buyers may have spotted but you haven’t, so it is important that these are flagged from the get-go.

It could also be down to the property being overpriced, leading to it sitting on the market for a long time.

2. When do the sellers want to move out?

This is a really important question to ask when you are considering buying a property. If the sellers are caught in a chain, it could drag out your moving process – potentially for months. If however, they are not in a chain, this wait could go down.

3. Which way does the property face?

Having a gorgeous decking area in the garden is all well and good – until you find out there is hardly ever any sun on it. Ask the agent which way the property faces, to make sure you will be able to enjoy the maximum amount of sunlight.

4. Is the property listed?

As beautiful as listed properties tend to be, they can also be a nightmare when it comes to what changes you can make. If you come across a listed building that needs a bit of TLC, then perhaps give this one a swerve, if you are under time or cost constraints.

But if you have fallen in love with the property and the works needed are really urgent, you may want to try discussing this with the planning services department at your local council.

5. What are the neighbours like?

Moving into a property with noisy neighbours can be a living nightmare. So be upfront and ask outright what they are like. You could try to find out if the seller has ever made any complaints about their neighbours in the past.

6. What is the surrounding area like?

Asking questions such as, ‘What are the schools like?’ or, ‘Is this a safe area to be in?’, as well as, ‘How good are the transport links around here?’ can help you to determine whether this is the kind of area you see yourself living in for many years.

Even if you are not planning on having children any time soon, having a good school nearby can potentially increase the value of a property.

7. How much does it cost to run the property?

Finding out council tax bands, utility costs and the general running costs of the property will help you budget properly and let you know whether the home is financially viable for you. Bills and council tax can take a massive chunk of your pay cheque each month, so it is vital to have an idea of how much money you are likely to end up regularly paying.

8. Would the owners consider a lower offer?

Some buyers may consider offering a low-ball price in the first instance, particularly if the estate agent knows the buyers need to sell fast. However, the estate agent may give you the heads-up that the sellers are only accepting offers over a particular price.

If you are considering making a low offer, bear in mind that if you go very low, this may be deemed too cheeky and the seller may think you are not a serious buyer. This could lead to the seller disregarding you completely. So remember to be brave, but also be fair.

10 bulbs to plant this autumn for a stunning spring and summer display

Hannah Stephenson chooses eye-catching bulbs to plant soon for a riot of colour next year.

Suddenly it’s bulb planting time, when gardeners start making space for some serious colour next spring and beyond.

Whether you’re going to online specialists, nurseries or your local garden centre, there should be a cornucopia of colourful choices and new collections, to fill every space from a huge plot to just a patio pot.

Check out 10 of the best…

1. Iris reticulata ‘Spot On’ (10 bulbs, £3.90, Farmer Gracy; farmergracy.co.uk)

These pint-sized velvety beauties bring a wow factor in pots and rockeries, where their delicate but dramatic violet-purple standards, and striped and spotted white falls can be appreciated. They look stunning in shallow metal containers surrounded by matching blue and white violas, flowering in early spring. Place them in sandy soil in full sun to give them the best chance of success, although they will take partial shade.

2. Delft Pot Collection (£20, Broadleigh Bulbs; broadleighbulbs.co.uk)

If you love a haze of blue and white and are looking to fill a pot or two, this new collection of blue hyacinths, white anemones and creamy tulips, along with other cool and striking bulbs, should fit the bill. Designed for a 12-14in pot, the long lasting collection includes Hyacinth ‘Blue Jacket’, Anemone blanda ‘White Splendour’, Muscari ‘armeniaicum’, Narcissus ‘Toto’ and Tulip ‘Exotic Emperor’.

3. Tulipa ‘Fly Away’ (8 bulbs, £6.99, Suttons; suttons.co.uk)

New to the Suttons bulb range, this sizzling tulip produces distinctive red and hot orange-yellow blooms on sturdy, upright stems that create a fiery colour statement in any garden. Best planted in full sun or semi-shade, these lily-flowered eye-catching gems grow to around 50cm (20in), flowering from April to May. They’re ideal for beds and borders or in pots on the patio. Cut some for indoors to make a beautiful spring flower arrangement.

4. Muscari ‘Grape Ice’ (8 bulbs, £4.99, Taylors Bulbs; taylors-bulbs.com)

Fancy a change from regular purple or white muscari? Then you could plump for this unusual two-tone variety, which features purple flowers with white caps. On the RHS Perfect for Pollinators list, they flower in March and April, growing to 15cm. Grow them en masse for best effect, preferably in a plethora of pots where their diminutive stature won’t be drowned out by anything else.

5. Narcissus ‘Cassata’ (10 bulbs, £7.99, Crocus, crocus.co.uk)

New from Crocus, these split corona daffodils provide a creamy backdrop of outer petals contrasting with deeper lemon inner petals and have received the RHS Award of Garden Merit. They grow to between 12-14cm, flowering from March to April. Plant the bulbs 10-15cm (4-6in) deep from late summer to early autumn.

6. Narcissus ‘Miss Muffet’ (5 bulbs, £3.10, Broadleigh Bulbs; broadleighbulbs.co.uk)

Flowering in February and March and growing to 28cm (11 in), this new dwarf trumpet daffodil from Broadleigh is pure yellow and is brilliant for naturalising, perfect in pots to perk up your patio and also great if you have space to fill at the front of the border.

7. Tulipa ‘Pretty Love’ (8 bulbs, £3.99, Taylors Bulbs; taylors-bulbs.com)

This beautiful lily-flowered tulip grows to 50cm (20in) and produces striking fluted shaped bright pink flowers which bloom in late April and early May. They look fabulous as stand-alone specimens in a pot or in a mixed planting scheme in a border. Their long-lasting blooms are also great for cutting.

8. Scilla peruviana ‘Sapphire Blue’ (2 plus 1 free bulb, £19.98, Crocus; crocus.co.uk)

Also known as Portuguese squill bulbs or hyacinths of Peru, these beauties produce masses of amethyst blue flowers above stout stems, thriving in full sun or partial shade. They are perfect for brightening beds, front borders and containers with their sprays of blue flowers.

9. Ranunculus ‘Picotee Cafe’ (10 bulbs, £5.90, Farmer Gracy; farmergracy.co.uk)

If you’re after more unusual bulbs with rich colours, try these stunning Persian buttercups whose frilly peony-shaped double blooms appear in warm shades of orange, gold, bronze, terracotta, coffee and chocolate. While they are ideally planted in autumn in mild areas, if you live in a cold spot you may need to provide some protection during hard frosts, covering pots in horticultural fleece or placing polytunnels over those planted in the ground.

Alternatively plant them in early spring for later blooms, which will come into their own in summer when other spring blooms have faded. The stems reach around 30cm, so will fit well in the front of the border or in containers. Originally bred for the cut flower trade, the blooms are bigger than more common ranunculus and do well in vases if you want to cut some for indoors.

10. Lilium ‘Orange Marmalade’ (2 bulbs £4.99, Taylors Bulbs; taylors-bulbs.com)

Nothing like the showy pink and cream oriental lilies which are familiar figures in borders and pots in late summer, this vibrant orange hybrid, a new addition to the Taylors range, grows to 80cm (32in), producing dainty star-shaped fragrant flowers in summer. What’s different is that the flowerheads are much smaller than some of the showier lilies, but can multiply to 30 or more stems per head.

How to make the most of a multi-use kitchen that also needs to be used for eating, lounging and living

These clever design tips will help you maximise your cooking-cum-living space, however compact.

In today’s property market, space is a commodity in short supply. From shoebox-sized studio flats in Victorian conversions to ‘snug’, purpose-built semis on suburban estates, people are increasingly finding themselves cooking in mixed-use spaces – ones which sometimes double as dining, living, or even bedrooms.

But however minimal your living space is, several tried and tested tricks can help you make the most out of your kitchen area, without compromising the rest of your home…

1. Use furniture to divide spaces

Large items of furniture can provide effective buffer zones between areas that are for eating and areas that are for cooking. Sofas have long been a go-to room divider – providing a clear, functional barrier that doesn’t block the eye line. Defining the kitchen area by adding a dining table ensures you can cook and socialise at the same time.

2. Put the kitchen in the corner

Corners are often neglected – partly because right angles can be hard to use – but kitchens are tailor-made to sit snugly in otherwise dead space. Arrange kitchen cupboards and surfaces around a corner to create a functional, out-of-the-way area where you can cook unimpeded, and leave the floor free for tables, TVs and chairs.

3. Have a clear centrepiece

Mixed-use spaces can easily start to feel chaotic and lacking in boundaries, but a single, eye-catching centrepiece will help lend the room a sense of focus and order. A dining room table, a multi-piece settee, or a widescreen television are all easy to build a room around if granted a central location, drawing focus away from crowded kitchen surfaces or that large, humming fridge.

4. Embrace minimalism

Small spaces can easily feel cluttered, and kitchens are magnets for rarely used pieces of bric-a-brac and outmoded appliances. Do you really have space for that almost-empty spice rack, never-used pile of cookbooks, or the avocado slicer you received as a Secret Santa gift back in 2016? In your kitchen-cum-living-room-cum-whatever else you’re using it for, the answer is probably no.

5. Use a light colour palette

It’s the oldest rule in the interior designer’s handbook – lighter shades make a room feel airy, bright and breezy, while darker colours will make it look smaller and more claustrophobic. Go for white, beige or pale greys to create the illusion of space.

6. Consider a kitchen island

They’re not cheap, but kitchen islands can divide a space beautifully, doubling as a dining table (if you don’t have one). They can also provide invaluable extra storage space beneath the worktop. Plus, in today’s modern, minimalist, IKEA-influenced world, kitchen islands are always on trend.

7. Use light to demarcate space

It’s not just furniture that can make different parts of a space feel different – accent lighting is a must for mixed-use rooms. Desk lamps and hanging lights can illuminate specific parts of a room, drawing focus or ensuring they feel separate and contrasting.

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