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12 ways to bring some spring vibes into your home right now

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Ditsy prints and blousy blooms are where it’s at, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

As the countryside steadily wakes up and the tiniest buds begin to blossom, it’s easy to get a little impatient for spring to really bloom.

After all, it feels like we’ve waited a long time to see those blankets of yellow daffodils and clusters of purple crocuses, and those bare branches to come back to life.

Of course, it won’t be long before our gardens and parks start to flaunt their fabulous flora, leaves unfurl and clouds of pink blossom lift our mood.

But to bridge the gap with a little floral flair, we’ve picked a bunch of early bloomers to plant indoors…

1. Bike Planter, £25, Next

It’s bit of a cheat, but what could be more quaint than a bicycle basket filled with flowers? Reclaimed furniture isn’t always easy to come by, but this planter has that salvaged, cottage feel we’re coveting right now.

2. Joules Cambridge Cotton 4 Seater Sofa in Navy Combination, £899 (was £999), DFS

A delightful sofa featuring wildflowers and sprigs of greenery, this joyous print from Joules can be spiked with scattered cushions – think posy prints and bumble bees. Plus it’s reversible, just in case you have a change of heart with the change of seasons, and available in a choice of colours.

3. Designers Guild The Rose Wallpaper, PJD6002/05, £71 per roll; Wrought Iron and Brass Bed Co Lily Iron Day Bed Frame – Single – Black, £795 (furnishings from a selection), John Lewis

A striking feature wall of rambling yellow roses, symbolising friendship and joy? We’re in. Instantly uplifting and easy to style, creamy yellow tones can be complemented with dark furnishings for contrast, or paired with lemony decos and ivory furniture. Rose arch or pergola optional.

4. George Home Artificial Yellow Flower Trough, £14, Direct Asda

Wellbeing for a shady windowsill or shelfie, this faux flower trough imbibes thoughts of daisy chains and nature walks.

5. Marie Pouffe – Fabric Upholstered – Green Palm Leaf, £69, Cult Furniture

If you want to play up an indoor palm, add a touch of the exotic to a cocktail corner or glam up a dressing table, this pouffe is perfect for perching on in a verdant green frock.

6. 12 Piece Spode Kingsley Dinner Set, £133, Next

Cheerful crockery can make all the difference, especially with the upsurge in home entertaining in-and-out of lockdown – and dining-in still on the cards for weeks to come. As far as tablescaping goes, this burgundy floral print is timeless and will look even lovelier topped with your favourite bottle of red wine. Includes four dinner plates, side plates and bowls.

7. Greenwich Flowers Apron, £22, Cath Kidston

We love a pinnie, especially one with a roomy front pocket and popping pattern print, without the worry of spills on fresh whites.

8. Orchid LED Light String, £45, Ella James

Orchids are notoriously difficult to grow – but you can still channel their petal power with this stylish string of orchid petal lights. The petals are handmade, and the 2.3m-long string, featuring warm white LED bulbs, is suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

9. Churchfield Kids Toy Box, £109, Cuckooland

If you’re hankering after a dressing-up box to call your own, or simple storage ideas for handbags or throws, this mini statement piece is covered in Churchfield’s Country Flower Florals and makes a lovely addition to any space.

10. Set of 6 Botanical Coasters, £20, Creature Candy

You’ve foraged for the gin and garnish, grabbed a balloon glass, half-filled it with ice – and the only thing missing is a coaster. These British wildflowers will bring you that much closer to the countryside, with 10% of the purchase price donated to Plantlife.

11. Sophie Allport Honey Spiced Lavender Home Scents, from £20 for Honey Spiced Lavender Scented Candle, to £25 for Reed Diffuser, Sophie Allport

Fresh lavender soothes our hearts with its calming fragrance, but there’s always the tendency for it to fade before we’ve had our fill. These handmade candles offer up to 40 hours of burning time, with diffusers and room sprays to spritz and scent surround.

12. Wildflower Quilted Bedspread, £150, French Bedroom Company

Imagine laying down in a meadow of wildflowers with the sun warming your face? We’ll have to wait a while to celebrate those mellow moments for real, but this Seventies-inspired floral print is a comforting and cosy reminder of what’s to come.

Kitchen kit: 10 ways to lift the heart of the home

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After some inspiration for quick kitchen updates? Sam Wylie-Harris hits the shops.

Whether you’re a creative cook or have a soft spot for Uber Eats, no matter which way you look at it, your kitchen is probably the space serving the most purpose right now.

And with dining-in, or a quick kitchen disco, the only way to get the party started these days, you really don’t need an excuse to elevate the busiest room in the house with some lovely new kit.

Here’s 10 ways to give your kitchen a mini makeover and maximise mealtimes…

1. Russell Hobbs Structure White Kettle, £49.99; Structure White 2 Slice Toaster, £49.99 and Structure White 4 Slice Toaster, £59.99, Russell Hobbs

Chances are your kettle’s clocked more brews lately than the busiest teashop in the land. Your next mug of builder’s is going to taste that much nicer when you flick the switch of this glossy white model from Russell Hobbs. With ‘rapid boil’ zone markers and capacity to boil one cup in 45 seconds (saving energy), the matching toaster with ‘lift and look’ feature means faultless golden slices at a glance.

2. KitchenAid Steel Core Enamel Casserole, Red, from £130-£140, John Lewis

Casseroles, chilli con carne, curry… this flame-red casserole dish offers as much feelgood factor as the comfort food you’ll be lovingly spooning out of it.

3. Italian Chef Set, £21.50, Brabantia

Whether you’re serving pasta, slicing pizza or grating a chunk of Parmigiano Reggiano, this trio will put the buono! into your next bolognese or margherita.

4. Bronx Kitchen Wall Unit, £75; Bronx Bread Bin, £26; Bronx 12 Piece Dinner Set, £48, and Set of 3 Bronx Storage Jars, £27 (other items from a selection), Next

A great way to gain more space, this industrial-inspired wall unit can be stacked with dinnerware and those all-important indoor herbs. We love the co-ordinating bread bin and storage jars too.

5. George Foreman 28000 Smokeless Electric Grill, 1500 W, Stainless Steel, £96.21, Amazon

It’s the cooking conundrum anyone with a small kitchen, or limited ventilation, knows only too well – how to grill delicious kebabs or chicken thighs without having to live with the lingering smoke and smells. George Foreman’s electric grill now eliminates up to 87% of smoke, accommodates a wide variety of foods in record time, with dishwasher safe removeable grill plates too. Job done.

6. Kilner Universal Storage Jars, from £8, Amazon or Kilnerjar.co.uk

Kilner’s iconic storage jars are made from 100% recyclable glass that doesn’t absorb odours or flavours, so they can be used over and over again for a myriad of items, including dry and fresh food. Plus they’re neat and tidy and you can clearly see what’s inside.

7. Mayflower Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pan, from £28 (was £35); Mayflower Ceramic Non-Stick Milkpan with 2 Spouts, £37, Greenpan

Suitable for all hob types, these lovely ceramic pans hint at ‘cottagecore’ and foraging for home-grown veggies.

8. Bo Touch Bin 36L – Pine Green, £179, Brabantia

The Bentley of waste bins, this space efficient, non-slip model, with silent opening and closing system, will handle all your rubbish – with the added bonus of PerfectFit Bo waste bags and Brabantia Perfume Your Bin Capsules to reduce nasty smells, so it’s ‘pine’ fresh too.

9. BAKTRADITION Baking Kit 1, £18.25, IKEA

If you’re a jenny-come-lately to the great British baking trend (or running short on a few implements), Ikea’s new baking kit will have you – and the kids – whipping up sweet treats and Victoria sponges in no time, especially with Mother’s Day around the corner.

10. Mary Berry Signature Collection 16 Piece Dinner Set, £125; Set of 16 Cutlery Set, £50, and Set of 4 Red Wine Glasses, £40 (other items from a selection), Next

With her fingers in many pies, Mary Berry’s Signature Collection dinner set retains her keen eye for detail with its beaded edge. And who wouldn’t want the queen of cooking’s tableware for entertaining, tablescaping and creating memorable moments at home?

Nursery style: 10 top picks for natty newborns

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From cots to night lights, these nursery additions are cosy, cool and made to last, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

The sweetest room in the house for sure, decorating your baby’s nursery requires a masterful mix of things for your eagerly awaited bundle of joy – and you.

After all, baby’s first bedroom is going to be the hardest working room in the house. Well, it will feel that way for the first few months, at least!

With so many late night feeds and rock-a-bye baby lullabies to look forward to, comfort and practicality are both going to come into play – along with pampering and bonding, and not to mention all those adorable cuddles.

Here’s what’s on our stylish sprog spec for kitting our a new nursery…

1. Vox Vintage 3 Piece Cot Bed Nursery Set in a Choice of Oak or 5 Pastel Colours (Yellow shown), £1,095, Cuckooland

If you’re splashing out on new nursery furniture, you’ll want to get your money’s worth. This cot converts into a junior bed for when they grow bigger, with a matching tall chest of drawers and smaller chest, plus the option to add a changing table. That’s nappies, onesies and blankets sorted – and come the day, kiddies’ clothing and school uniform.

2. Disney Store My First Mickey 2021 Small Soft Toy, £15, Shop Disney

Bang up to date, every new babe needs the world’s most famous mouse in their collection of cuddly toys.

3. Dark Grey Baby And Junior Bed by Little Ella James, £950, Notonthehighstreet.com

Another cutting-edge cot, this time in fashionable grey (colour specialists Pantone have named Ultimate Grey one of their colours of the year for 2021), this one offers sweet dreams from day dot to eight years old. With a height-adjustable base and removable side panels, the grey makes a perfect neutral to work with and looks right at home with yellow, pink and baby blue.

4. 366 Rocking Chair – Velvet Collection – 366 Concept in Powder Pink, £805, Lime Lace

Yes, it’s a big investment but a nursing chair is going to be your indispensable workhorse – so mother and baby may as well rock the benefits and soothing effects of relaxing and bonding in comfort and style. Eye-catching and elegant, the fabric is treated with a water clean film so it can cope with feeds and spills.

5. Little Dutch Wooden Baby Gym – Ocean Blue, £40, Amara

Ahh, the advantages of a baby play gym are much storied. They encourage eye and hand movement while stimulating the senses, and who wouldn’t love to lie down and watch these marine toys swim into view? Plus, it means you can steal a few precious moments for yourself.

6. Safari Baby Gift Set, £40, The White Company

Your little monkey will look adorable in this Safari sleepsuit, especially with a monkey comforter to call their own – and star-print suitcase for their favourite travel toys.

7. The Nursery Collection Patterned Carpet – Blue Stargazer, currently £19.99 per square metre (was £24.99), Carpetright

When baby starts to crawl, all eyes will be focused on the floor. This durable carpet, made from super-durable 100% polyamide will feel especially comfy for those first steps, toddling milestones and tiny tot tumbles.

8. Green Balloon Wall Light, £16.99, lights4fun

You’re never too old for a night light, and we love the idea of a party balloon to provide a warm, happy glow. Easy to hang on the wall, it takes 3 x AAA batteries (sold separately) and lights with a pull on the cord.

9. Rainbow Fabric Wall Stickers by Littleprints, £30, Notonthehighstreet

Rainbows are definitely having a moment, and their positive vibes are beneficial as well as beautifying. Especially if you have a plain white wall that could do with a little love and affection. Available in nine different colour options, eco-friendly and solvent-free, each set includes three rainbows, a cloud and choice of raindrops, hearts or stars. Magic.

10. Personalised Flopsy Pull Along Toy, £34.99, Getting Personal

With her fetching furry ears and blush pink coat, who can resist this timeless pull-along toy? From the official Peter Rabbit burrow, your little princess will adore tugging along the wooden wheels when they start to take their toys walkies.

10 ways to get organised and push the refresh button at home

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Is your home feeling more chaos and clutter, than calm and order? Here’s how to get organised in style, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

Craving a bit more order and efficiency at home? There couldn’t be a better time to have a good clear-out and sort-out and get organised.

We know – hands up if you feel like we’re stuck in Groundhog Day? And the last thing anyone needs right now is more pressure to be ‘productive’.

But, if being surrounded by clutter and having to hunt down items when you need them is adding to your daily stress levels, this could be an opportunity to finally tackle those jobs you’ve been putting off.

If we put as much effort into sifting, sorting and sprucing up our interiors as we used to put into our social lives (sob!), life in the slow lane might be a smidge more rewarding. Plus, storage solutions can be super stylish – so think of this as fun and pleasing, rather than just a practical chore.

Prepare to make your space pristine by investing in a few key pieces built to last…

1. Hopkins Compact Desk – Oak Effect & White, £149; Thelma Office Chair – Grey, £99 (other items from a selection/part of room set), MADE

According to a recent survey by European design brand MADE.COM, last year, 43% of Brits used their free time at home to have a clear-out, and the brand saw the popularity of its storage offering surge by 35% in the first three months of the first lockdown. So if you’re still ‘making do’ and working at the kitchen table, we think their new Hopkins desk, with its clean lines and two drawers for documents and bits and bobs, is inspiration enough to upgrade your work station.

2. SmartStore by Orthex Plastic Storage Boxes, from £7-£30, John Lewis

Piles of paperwork getting you down? Time to take stock and box clever, with sustainable brand Orthex and their Smartstore range of practical storage boxes. Made from 100% recycled plastic, you’ll be able to see everything in a new, clutter-free light.

3. Bloomingville Douve Book Stand, £95 (other items part of room set), Sweet Pea & Willow

Keen readers and anyone with a magazine subscription will understand how tricky it is to find enough space to store your hardbacks, cookbooks and glossy mags without taking up masses of room. This stylish bookstand also doubles up as a statement piece – think about placing a decorative tray across one of the corners with a pretty ornament and abracadabra, you’ve gained more shelf space too.

4. Ferris Wheel planter, currently £24 (was £28), Red Candy

Some of us can never have enough succulents but these jade jewels need space to thrive – and neither you nor they will benefit from a crowded windowsill. Step in this funky ferris wheel, which will hold six of your little babies and leave room for a spiky companion.

5. Talin Wide Media Unit – Blue Stain Mango Wood & Brass, £549 (other items from a selection/part of room set), MADE

Chances are your games console has been working over-time and the TV is rarely switched off – but how about storing those devices? This striking entertainment centre, with its sophisticated tones of cobalt blue and brass, will hold everything inside, help you reclaim floor space, and let you connect with the outside world in style.

6. Koble Milo Smart Side Table With Speakers & Wireless Charging, £250, Cuckooland

Wave goodbye to unsightly cords and cables with this wireless charging surface. A smart side table boasting push button controls, two USB charging points, four Bluetooth speakers and power bank function for up to six hours, this tip-top table can sit anywhere in the house and won’t weigh you down with unnecessary electricals.

7. Oak Ladder Shelf, £285 (other items from a selection/part of room set), Graham & Green

Versatile and practical, no wonder shelf ladders are having a moment. This one’s crafted from solid oak with good depth and height, and sports six ledged steps for showing-off knick-knacks and holding homewares.

8. Bo Laundry Bin, £140 (other items part of room set), Brabantia

With so much staying in, premium homewares brand Brabantia are top of our wish list on laundry days, with chic cabinet designs such as their Bo laundry bin. With a clever quick-drop opening and removable laundry bag (machine washable), it’s easy to place anywhere and carry stuff to the washing machine.

9. Linn Clothes Rack – White Small, £128 and Black Large, £149; Foldable Laundry Basket – 40L – Grey, £33.95 (other items from a selection/part of room set), Brabantia

With more time on our hands for ironing and mending, Brabantia’s clothes racks and foldable laundry baskets bring charm into chores, especially if your inner wardrobe mistress can’t wait to revamp your clothing collection for post lockdown celebrations. So many clothes, and yet nothing to wear…

10. Bathroom Caddy, £145 (other items from a selection), The White Company

Bath-time bliss begins with having everything close to hand, and you can’t beat this bathroom caddy. Not only will it fit snuggly next to a free-standing bath, shower area or small tub, it’s versatile enough to suit any style and colour scheme. Come to think of it, it’ll work just as well as a stylist’s station for all your beauty bits and bobs. Job done.

6 interior trends set to be big in 2021

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Interior design trends mccarthy holden estate agents hampshire

After an unprecedented year, how will the pandemic have shaped interior trends to come?

Sam Wylie-Harris provides insight for McCarthy Holden into what we can expect to see more of in 2021.

There’s no doubt how we used our homes, and what we want from them, changed dramatically during 2020. According to home renovation and design platform Houzz.co.uk, this is already being reflected in popular search terms and design directions.

So, what can we expect to see more of in 2021? Houzz analysed their site data, browsed hundreds of home design photos, and interviewed professionals on Houzz Pro to reveal six key home design trends for the year to come.

Here’s a look, along with tips on how to make them work in your home…

The return of the all-white kitchen

Interior design trends mccarthy holden estate agents hampshire

This neutral, light-enhancing choice for the hardest-working room in the house is growing in popularity again, with searches for ‘white kitchen’ rising significantly during 2020. We’re also seeing many popular photos on Houzz that have white worktops and expect to see more in 2021, perhaps reflecting a pandemic-fuelled desire for clean-looking cook spaces.

“We’re seeing a resurgence of white kitchens but with people leaning towards matte designs rather than gloss, which was favoured a few years ago,” explains Josh Delane, director of kitchen designers, The Wood Works. “It pairs well with metallic accents like brass, bronze, copper and even matte black fixtures.”

In terms of worktops, Delane says: “Veined and marble effect quartz worktops are surging in popularity – a good alternative to real marble, which is porous and can be stained easily, making it challenging to maintain in a kitchen. White Corian is also a popular choice and nice on longer islands, as it can be cut and joined seamlessly.”

Nature-inspired interiors

The incorporation of nature into our interiors looks set to continue, with colour experts on Houzz predicting warm earth tones, such as burnt umber, terracotta and clay, and contrasting forest colours like sage, pine and turquoise will be strong choices for 2021. These colours are perfectly complemented by natural materials such as rattan, jute, wood and concrete, which have all featured heavily in the most-saved photos on Houzz lately.

If you’re wanting to embrace natural materials in your home, rattan is a good place to start and will continue to be big in 2021. Omar Bhatti, director of Space Shack, says: “It has a bohemian vibe, which you can mix with any interior. To avoid overkill, my top tip is to use it in moderation. I would suggest investing in a rattan accent chair or small planter baskets and see how you like this in your space.”

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Interior design trends mccarthy holden estate agents hampshire

Plants are another easy way to incorporate nature into interiors. Bhatti agrees: “You can never have enough plants. If I’m ever in doubt and need to fill an empty space or shelf, I always use plants. This is also a great way to bring the outdoors in and breathe some much-needed life into any space.

“I’m all about an oversized plant, this is a great way to bring some drama into any room. Banana plants and birds-of-paradise are good options.”

If you’re going to get the paint out, Bhatti suggests a palette of natural neutral tones. Beige and taupes are classic options that work in any space. “I recommend painting all your stark white walls in a light sand or beige tone, which will warm up the space, and you wouldn’t even need an undercoat,” he says.

Healthy homes

McCarthy Holden know from first hand experience that searches for ‘home gym’ and ‘garden gym’ have both risen dramatically during 2020 too. In 2021, we expect to see more exercise equipment that fits seamlessly into interiors, or furniture that doubles up.

Demand for home gym space rises at McCarthy Holden estate agents

“When thinking about portioning off a room in your home as your dedicated exercise space, it’s important to choose a room that has a fitting purpose, lighting and mood,” advises Joe Robertshaw, director of Place for Humans. “Being motivated to exercise at home also comes down to ease and accessibility, the more hurdles that stand between you and the exercise, the more likely it is to go undone.”

Multi-functional spaces

One thing 2020 really brought about was a need for rooms to be multi-functional. As a result, we’re starting to see professionals incorporate more hybrid designs, detachable units, and convertible pieces to create a home suited to the ‘new normal’.

One example, which saw a surprising rise in popularity as a search term, is ‘murphy bed’ (a pull-down design), suggesting a need for homeowners to hide away large pieces of furniture in bedrooms or spare rooms during the day, so they can double as offices while many of us work from home for the foreseeable future.

Building your own new home could be the ideal way to create your perfect spaces

“Given the current circumstances, our spare rooms have never been so important. Making spaces work for multiple occasions is critical to being able to utilise every centimetre of space in the home,” says Richard Hobden director of RHJB Architects. “A comparatively easy win is to replace the divan or fixed frame bed in the spare room with a simple folding bed. This can be a stand-alone piece of furniture or built into a storage wall, disguised as wardrobes. This will free up space elsewhere to create a multi-purpose study, home gym or playroom solution.”

Luxury vintage

Sustainability, climate change and the impact we have on our planet continue to be a big theme for 2021. Professionals on Houzz are reporting a growing interest in high-end, second-hand furniture, which aligns with the interest in sustainability we’ve seen.

second hand furniture for interiors

When buying second-hand furniture, try to see the item in person if you can (safely, of course). Buying online is very convenient but it’s much easier to hide any serious damage in a photograph than in person. “I like to be able to touch the item and check it’s in good condition, so I’m not too keen on buying from online resources, unless they have an option for you to view it first,” says Bhavin Taylor, director of Bhavin Taylor Design.

And make sure you know all of your measurements – an absolute must for multiple reasons. “There’s usually no returns policy when buying second-hand,” Taylor explains,. “If you buy a piece that’s the wrong size, it’s likely you’ll be stuck with it.” So remember to measure your doorways and other access points first. “There’s nothing worse than buying something and not being able to get it through the front door,” adds Taylor.

Outdoor entertainment spaces will reign

Unsurprisingly given all the pandemic restrictions, there’s been huge interest in outdoor spaces. Houzz’s pandemic survey back in July showed that, hands-down, the garden was the area most of us wanted to improve, with 30% of those surveyed wanting to make upgrades. Homeowners have increasingly been searching for ‘summerhouses’, ‘firepits’, ‘hot tubs’ and ‘outdoor kitchens, which have all risen in popularity as search terms. We expect to see more of these features in gardens in 2021.

With amazing outdoor entertainments facilities this home was snapped up in 2020.

And it’s not just for summer – professionals on Houzz Pro report an increase in demand for designs that will allow them to use the garden later into the evening and year. “Since lockdown, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in leads through Houzz for our garden design business,” says Paul Dracott of Paul Dracott Garden Design. “People have rediscovered the importance of outdoor space and how it can enrich modern life. The most popular requests are for outdoor eating and cooking areas, including pizza ovens, and also for firepits to extend the use of the garden into the evening.”

You can start your perfect property search here

Kitchen Cool: 13 Ways to Serve up a Feast of Style

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Whether it’s a full-blown revamp or simple updates, Gabrielle Fagan stirs up some style solutions for the heart of the home.

Our kitchens are having to work harder than ever these days, as we’re spending more time in them – and we’re not just using them to cook up a storm.

That eating area now has to be able to perform as a family space, an entertaining zone, and maybe a home office for many of us too. So it needs to not only look the business, but to function well to facilitate our busy and multi-layered home lives.

Looking to give your kitchen an update? Follow our recipe for creating the perfect kitchen in your home, whatever your budget…

1. Island story

An island is still the most coveted design feature in a kitchen – and it’s easy to see why. It’s invaluable as a preparation area, and means you can flex your culinary skills without turning your back on the party.

“Kitchen islands and breakfast bars offer a versatile and adaptable space that can be used in so many ways,” says Joanne Emery, marketing manager at Burbidge.

“They can create zones in your area, giving the illusion of two separate functional rooms, whilst keeping the room clutter-free by providing additional storage. Consider incorporating open shelving for items you use frequently.”

2. Dark matters

Black is a design classic, whether for clothes or kitchen units, and paired with a metallic it’s a recipe for sophistication.

Choose handles, taps and kitchen accessories in brass, copper or bronze – the finishes which have taken over from last year’s polished chrome.

3. Cooking with colour

Our growing desire for colourful spaces is reflected in more vivid kitchen cabinetry and ‘colour pops’, which allow for a more playful, individual look.

If you’re worried you may tire of units or tiles in a vibrant shade, or they’ll look dated as fashions move on, simply shake up the space with colourful accessories instead.

Paintings, storage canisters, or worktop appliances in funky shades could be just the colour ‘pop’ you need, and they can be easily moved or updated in the future.

4. Double identity

There’s a real trend for kitchens to feel like extensions of living rooms now too. Our home-based lifestyle means we want spaces where it’s easy to cook for the family during the day, but have the ‘wow’ factor to transform into striking evening entertainment spaces at night, or just somewhere to relax and unwind.

Ensure your colour scheme in both areas – the kitchen and the lounge area – harmonises, which will make the space look bigger and blend together.

5. Savvy switch up

If a full-scale revamp is out of the question, don’t underestimate the power of replacing cabinet door fronts, which can transform your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a refit.

If you’re into DIY, repainting kitchen units is fairly straightforward – but ensure you prepare the surface well beforehand, by lightly sanding, cleaning with white spirit, and applying two coats of paint. B&Q has a good range of cabinet paint, including the GoodHome Durable Delaware Matt Cabinet & Wardrobe Paint, £20 for 0.75L.

For a final flourish, invest in new handles and light switches to give the room an extra lift.

6. Ace the space

If you haven’t got acres of space to work with, you need to make the most of ever corner. A cook’s trolley, a hanging rack for utensils, and ceiling-height cupboards can all be a boon – and the plus point is everything will be within easy each.

7. Pendant power

Move over spotlights and track lighting – pendant lights currently rule in kitchens. One statement light, or a group of three, will brilliantly define a selected space, such as a kitchen island or dining area.

8. Make a splash

Swapping a tiled splashback for a striking mural will take a kitchen from functional to fabulous.

“Murals never fail in adding impact and are brilliant for adding drama and depth, giving an illusion of looking out onto a different scene, view or landscape. They can have a magical effect on a room,” says Michael Ayerst, managing director of Surface View, who recreate images on made-to-measure wall murals, canvasses, blinds and ceramic tiles.

Gilded Paper Wallpaper Mural by Richard Hamilton Smith GS, from the Trunk Archive at Surface View, from £40 per square metre, Surfaceview.co.uk.

9. Modern mix

“The enduring trend for kitchens is about mixing it up, whether that’s with contrasting materials such as wood and metallics, or textured and smooth finishes,” says Gary Griffin, UK sales manager UK at Rational (rational.de/en).

“Cabinets incorporating the grain and beauty of timber are one of the keynote features of 2020. It’s hardly surprising, as natural materials such as wood suit both contemporary and classic homes and this is a great way to ensure that, no matter what your design choice, your home has a warm, relaxed feel.”

Whilst neutral palettes remain popular, Griffin notes there’s been a move towards the ‘dark side’, with bolder choices of black or grey units – but unlike their shiny predecessors of the Nineties, these now come in an understated matt finish.

Rational’s Uno handle-less kitchen combines an oiled cracked oak veneer with sleek matt black units in a Monolack, a new lacquered laminate finish. Features include a pull-out coffee machine module and a Passe-Partout internal storage system (from £12,000).

10. Take to the floor

A feature wall, a stunning chandelier, and a ‘look at me’ choice of flooring in a punchy shade could be the perfect ingredients for a glamorous space.

11. Love a larder

While the concept of a larder harks back to an era before refrigeration, they’re now the ultimate chic feature in today’s kitchens, and provide plenty of space for all those jars and ingredients that can clutter up the fridge or worktops.

Want to know the rest of the kit on the dream kitchen list? A range cooker, instant hot water taps, remote-control extraction units, and integrated recycling units.

12. Worktop wizardry

The worktop is the workhorse of any kitchen, and so it needs to be tough, practical and good-looking. View this feature as a way of demonstrating your taste and bringing individuality to the kitchen design.

As it will have a big visual impact, don’t leave your worktop choice ’til last – instead start with the surfaces and match other key pieces, like the cabinets, to them.

Decor tip: Veined marble is in vogue, as it’s more interesting than a plain top but won’t dominate. If you’re after a contrasting look, choose white marble and pick up on the veining colour for the paint shade on the cabinetry.

13. Rose-tinted touches

Pink is having a moment in kitchens. This soft shade can bring warmth to a cool space and works particularly well in an open-plan area, where you don’t want a harsh contrast between the living and cooking area.

3 Easy Upcycling Ideas Everyone can do at Home

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Expert upcycler Max McMurdo tells Sam Wylie-Harris why savvy crafters will love beautifying these binned items.

The upcycling message is practical, powerful and pretty clever.

“I really believe that waste can be beautifully upcycled,” says Max McMurdo, eco-designer and TV presenter. “Just because an item can no longer fulfil its original purpose, doesn’t mean it can’t work really well as something else.

“I started upcycling 18 years ago and people didn’t understand what I was doing, they thought I was a mad hippy!” Chatty and fun, McMurdo lives in a 40-foot upcycled shipping container, which he converted into a floating home – and admits it’s the most ambitious thing he’s ever upcycled.

“It’s fantastic and I love it. I had the bright idea that if I’m telling people what to do, I must do it on the biggest scale of all and upcycle a home. My lampshades are old jelly moulds and my table’s a washing machine drum.”

If you take a look on Pinterest, it seems a lot of people stick to one material (which they’re comfortable with) when upcycling. But for McMurdo, successful product design and upcycling is all about mixing materials, like wood and glass or metal and leather. “So with something like a wash drum table, I put a light bulb inside that streams out of the holes, with a piece of glass on top.”

Working with reclaimed materials takes creativity and a little bit of effort. But as McMurdo points out, just because you’re upcyling, doesn’t mean it should be any less beautiful in terms of design and aesthetic. “You’ll be amazed how many things you can reuse in a really cool way!”

McMurdo has partnered with Heinz for their ‘Handmade with Heinz’ campaign, which aims to inspire people to upcycle household items and waste – like used tins, for example.

Wondering where to start? Here’s how to get a foot on the crafting ladder…

1. Upcycle old pallets into cool garden furniture

You’ll need: Some used wood pallets, castor wheels (available in sets of four), selection of ready-made cushions.

Steps: Pick up some free wood pallets from a local shop, farm or industrial estate – don’t be afraid to ask! Screw castor wheels to each corner of the bottoms of the pallets to make them manoeuvrable (they come with holes and are easy to affix). Double stack the pallets for the right height. Sand the pallets down lightly to avoid splinters, then wax to seal and make them weather resistant. Add some cushions.

Top Tip: Amazon sells Cuprnol Garden Furniture Stain Exterior Wood Care, priced £15, to seal your pallets from bad weather and keep them looking nicer for longer.

2. Upcycle a wooden ladder into a cool shelf

You’ll need: An old wooden ladder, some knick-knacks and anything you want to hang on it.

Steps: Find an old wood ladder – the more paint spattered the better. If you don’t have one, ask neighbours and friends. Prop it securely against a wall and use as a quirky shelf. You can hang it with anything you like, including clip-on lights or fairy lights. This also works as a towel rack in bathrooms.

Top tip: This one works especially well for rental properties, as you don’t need to attach anything to walls.

3. Upcycle some old books into a knife block

You’ll need: 4-5 old books (buy these from a charity shop if you don’t have any at home), strong string.

Steps: Prop your old books upright, next to each other. Wind an old piece of strong string around the books a couple of times and tie it tightly. Pop your knives in it and place on your kitchen top.

Top tip: You can also create some great artwork with old books, by folding the pages into a certain pattern, or into words like ‘love’ and ‘home’.

For more information on the #handmadewithheinz campaign, check out Heinz UK and Max McMurdo on Instagram.

11 of the Best Chandeliers, Pendant Lights and Lamps to Light up your World

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Sam Wylie-Harris switches natural light for artificial, and reveals the best in statement lighting.

In the height of summer, lighting doesn’t have much opportunity to play a starring role. It’s more about window dressing to control the brightness.

But come early autumn, with dappled sunlight streaming through and a low sun casting shadows in our living space, a flick of a switch has the power to transform our interiors.

In many ways, luxe lighting offers the tools to illuminate, highlight and shine a spotlight on the things that make a difference in our lives, while setting the stage for a little bit of theatre.

Currently, sculptural forms and statement pieces are very on-trend, but neutrals and polished chrome are not forgotten. Here’s how to plug into the latest schemes…

1. Ribbon LED Ceiling Light by Heal’s, £479, other items from a selection, Heal’s

“Sculptural lighting can be a quick and easy way to create a focal point within a room, and is increasingly being used for decorative purposes,” says Claire Anstey, lighting buyer at Heal’s, “to the point where they can offer the same effect as a piece of art.”

As the evenings grow darker and we spend more time indoors, Anstey says lighting can be a great way to create drama in a space. Take their Ribbon pendant collection, “with its looping curves mimicking the movement of ribbons sweeping through the air.

“Suspended from a slim wire, the piece appears to be floating through the room and offers a touch of refined luxury – perfect for large living areas or poised above a dining table,” says Anstey.

2. Saber LED Multi Arm Chandelier, Gold, £399, Heal’s

In more contemporary schemes, linear designs work particularly well and can still offer the same level of impact with a crisp, clean glow. New for this season at Heal’s is the Saber multi-arm chandelier – a modern interpretation of the classic chandelier design. “Integrated LEDs offer an energy-saving alternative to traditional bulbs, and eight adjustable arms offer the flexibility to focus light within different areas of the room,” says Anstey.

3. Fin Pendant Grouping of 7, Natural White, £1,249, other items part of room set, Original BTC

Depending on the height of your ceilings, pendant lighting lends itself to spectacular dining settings, especially with the trend for tablescaping and entertaining at home.

As Peter Bowles, founder of Original BTC puts it: “When it comes to scale, dramatically proportioned lights are the most obvious way to create impact. A generously sized pendant will create a talking point, whether lit or not.”

While scale is one way to make a statement, it’s not always feasible to fit a grandly proportioned pendant in lower ceilinged rooms, so it’s worth exploring alternative approaches. “Often referred to as jewellery for the home, the right light fittings can complete or transform your interior scheme.” says Bowles. “Just like jewellery, a flash of brass, copper or gold can lift your room, bringing a touch of opulence.”

4. Cranton Hexagonal Pendant, Natural White, £2,969, Original BTC

Another scene stealer, if you’re looking for a central lighting source, this Instaworthy investment piece can be hung from a ceiling rose to contrast with traditional plasterwork.

5. Walter Pendant Size 2, Anthracite Glass & Brass, £459 each, Original BTC

When it comes to multiple light fittings, Bowles says three is the magic number. “Over a kitchen island or dining table, a row of three pendants will always create a strong visual impact and do all the hard work for you.”

6. Kartell Limited Edition Space Lamp, £183, Amara

Sam Hood, creative director and head of buying at Amara, says there’s a general move towards the use of lighting as a statement piece in a room – and we love this fabulously futuristic new arrival from Kartell. Depending on your budget, a pair would look stunning styled either side of a black leather sofa.

7. Humble One Table Light, White Marble, £129, Amara

Perhaps linked to increased environmental awareness, Hood says raw and natural looking colourways are also making an impact in decorative lighting. “Marble and wood patterns, seen in Humble’s new lighting range, add earthy accents to a room, particularly when placed next to indoor plants and other raw material features,” says Hood.

8. Brigantia Lighting Grey, £695 (£715 with bulb), other items from a selection, OKA

Elsewhere, basket style hanging lanterns have the power to please. “Lighting should be the star of the show in every space,” says Sue Jones, creative director for OKA. “If your ceiling height will allow it, dial up the drama with a hanging lamp that will act as a bold focal point. A style like the Brigantia is perfect to hang over a dining table as it will diffuse light and cast a soft glow.”

9. Perisphere Table Lamp – Natural, £175 (base only), Lamp & Black Drum Cotton Shade, £225, other items from a selection, OKA

Jones point out: “Remember lamps don’t have to be purely functional. A sculptural base like our new Perisphere table lamp will display just as much character when the lights are off, and can be paired with a patterned shade for an extra dash of colour.”

10. Grosvenor Floor Lamp, £115 (r), Grosvenor Table Lamp, £50 (m), Richmond Table Lamp, £90 (l), other items from a selection, Next

For a polished pool of light, this new Grosvenor collection from Next ticks all the right (light)boxes, with its chrome base complemented by a glamorous velvet shade with geometric design.

11. Jonathan Adler Constantine Table Lamp, £595, Jonathan Adler

This designer lamp is super stylish and chic. With its antiqued brass pyramid framework and lustrous piano black finish, it’s a fabulous edition to any side table.

How to Bring the Calming Principles of Feng Shui into your Home

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It’s all about encouraging positive energy flow. Regardless of whether you’re back to school or not, this is a good time of year to stop, take stock and make some positive changes.

For Gen Z in particular, there’s been an increased focus on making bedrooms a calm and soothing space. Pinterest has found the age group (born between the mid-Nineties and early 2010s) is looking for serenity, with searches for ‘Zen bedroom ideas’ up five times on average, and ‘feng shui bedroom layout’ up two and a half times.

Thinking about how to bring this feeling of calmness into your home as a whole? The Chinese practice of feng shui could help. “Translated as ‘wind-water’ in English, feng shui practises the belief that by bringing positive energy into the home, good health, wealth and luck are set to follow,” explains Rebecca Snowden, interior style advisor at FurnitureChoice.co.uk.

Here are Snowden’s top tips for welcoming positive energy into your home…

Declutter

Many of us see September as a second new year, meaning it’s the ideal time to declutter. “A neat home works wonders for our mental clarity and overall health,” explains Snowden.

“In feng shui, each space is connected to each other and allows positive energy to flow throughout the house. Add a decorative mirror to the living room to make the space feel larger, and multiply the positive energy flow. Meanwhile, closets or drawers overloaded with old items block the chi (energy) so it’s best to discard any clutter.”

Balance yin and yang

Snowden recommends incorporating yin (feminine) and yang (masculine) elements into your decor. “Apply this concept by mixing different shapes together,” she says. “For example, contrast the sharp edges of wall hangings with the soft curves of a sofa or mirror in the living room. This will balance out the room and give it a more relaxing feel.”

Bring calm into your bedroom

It’s no surprise Gen Z are keen to feng shui their bedrooms: after all, getting a good night’s sleep is crucial to overall wellbeing, and the right environment can play a big part.

To boost feelings of calm and relaxation particularly in your bedroom, Snowden has two top tips: first, get rid of mirrors to help avoid an energy overload. And second, make the bed the central focus. “In feng shui, this symbolises a commanding position that allows you to take charge and handle life’s many challenges,” says Snowden. “The bed is best positioned diagonally away from your door as you will still be able to see it clearly, while not being in a direct line to it.

“Placing your bed against the wall will also give you a sense of security and ground you when you sleep. And for extra strength and stability, a bed with a headboard will represent this, with its solid support and build.”

If you have a home office, apply the same logic to your desk to bring the focus onto productivity.

Freshen up the place with plants

Snowden says plants can “bring positive energy” into a room, adding: “In feng shui, they are commonly associated as a life force and bring in growth, prosperity and luck. Common indoor plants said to attract these good elements include pothos, lucky bamboo and peace lily.”

13 Ways to Make the Most of a Small Bedroom

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It's possible to live large despite sleeping small, says Luke Rix-Standing.

For many of us, house space is a fiercely contested commodity, and you need to squeeze the most out of every square inch.

But luckily there are plenty of clever tricks you can use to make this happen. Mirrors, multi-functional furniture and a recurring colour or pattern are all your friends.

Here’s how to make even the smallest bedroom feel larger – without having to sleep on the sofa…

1. Let there be light

It’s the oldest rule in the book: Bright, breezy spaces feel looser, larger and lighter, so put your bed on the opposite wall from your windows and keep them clear of clutter. Thick, heavy curtains will help you keep warm in winter, but they will also protrude physically and visually into your room, so dress your windows with unobtrusive blinds or rollers instead.

2. Under-bed storage is your friend

Every square inch counts when you’re space saving, and there should be no room for monsters beneath the bed once you’ve finished economising. Bags and boxes are good for long-term storage, but slide-out clothes drawers are especially expedient, as they lessen the need for that other great space-snatcher, a large wardrobe.

3. Make it a a virtue

One person’s cramped is another person’s cozy, and a few soft furnishings can turn a poky shoe-box into a snug den or bolthole. Think fuzzy blankets, chocolate box ornaments, warming lamps and lighting – anything you might associate with a comfy Scandinavian cabin on a cold winter’s day.

4. Mirror, mirror

Bedroom, entrance hall or downstairs loo – mirrors have long been number one on the list of domestic design tricks. They don’t add any physical space, of course, but they send light bouncing round the walls and can trick the eye into doubling a room’s depth.

For the best brightening effects, place your mirror opposite a window and for the greatest sense of space, consider the wall opposite the door.

5. Bed size matters

We know, it’s so tempting to snap up an XXL king size and spend every night splayed out like a starfish, but if floor space is precious, your bed is the obvious place to seek savings. If you’re 6’4” and married, fair play; if you’re 5’3” and single, perhaps consider downsizing.

6. Put your headboard to work

Select the right design and your headboard can double as shelves for storage; a tabletop for ornaments; a rail for hanging clothes – anything really besides a useless wooden plank.

7. Think vertically

Just as city centres maximise space by building upwards, so too can your bedroom. Think of a room in terms of volume, rather than surface area, and prioritise floor-to-ceiling units that can squeeze the most from every inch of your room. Add shelves atop wardrobes and cupboards, or just use them as storage space anyway.

If you are investing in mirrors, make them full-length, and design your room to draw the eye upwards. Consider vertically-striped wallpaper, a different-coloured ceiling, and high-hung pictures and decor.

8. Choose furniture strategically

Pick pieces that can serve multiple purposes, or at least do the job as efficiently as possible. Double up your desk and bedside table; pick a compact cabinet over an elaborate chest of drawers; investigate foldaway futons.

9. Curate your colour scheme

Lighter colours feel airier and more open, and there’s a reasons that whites, greys and varying shades of cream crop up again and again in the centrefolds of interior design magazines. From your paint job to flooring and furnishings, avoid darker colours that might lend a claustrophobic feel.

10. Establish a theme

It doesn’t take much for small spaces to feel disorganised, and giving your room a designed, curated feel brings a much-needed sense of order. It could be a colour or pattern – recurring on cushions, bed covers and wallpaper – or a simple motif.

11. Declutter

Minimalism is as fashionable as it is functional, and most bedrooms bear at least a few bulky burdens that would be better off down the charity shop. Do you really need that brick-sized Nokia with the first ever version of Snake, the box of expired medicines, or the tabletop popcorn maker you used once in 2015?

12. Marshal your corners

Corners are notoriously difficult to bring to heel, but unless you live in a lighthouse every room has at least three of them, and they can easily turn into dead space. Consider anything with a right angle – tables, light fixtures, or wraparound, triangular shelving.

13. Employ a feature wall

Every room benefits from a statement centrepiece, and in a shoe-box bedroom it can hardly be the four-poster bed. Physical focal points may struggle to squeeze in, so instead opt for a visual one – a well decorated wall with an artwork, a photo collage, or simply a bold pattern.

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