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Check mate: 12 ways to get cosy with timeless tartan and gorgeous gingham this winter

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These stylish checked pieces offer easy updates, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

Trends come and go. But if you’re after lasting appeal, it’s always advisable to stick with the classics.

Combining traditional tartan and gingham into a scheme can strike a harmonious balance – especially at this time of year, as we yearn for those calm and snug vibes. These strong repeat patterns provide visual interest and can help warm a room with colour and texture.

Here’s how to soften the edges and introduce some checked contrast as the nights draw in…

1. Katie Alice Vintage Indigo Gingham Side Plates, £8.99 each, Vintage Indigo Teapot, £39.99, rest of items from a selection, Katie Alice

Inspired by Dutch Delftware, these ceramic navy gingham plates reinvent the past with thoughts of afternoon tea and shortbread biscuits.

2. Madras Gold Check Throw, £60, Check Cushions, £55, Weaver Green

If you’re coveting throws and cushions right now, you’re not alone. Comforting and cheerful, we love the yellows, blues and soft pinks in this timeless design. Ideal for styling on rustic furniture, flea market finds, as well as a sofa.

3. Gingham Check Stoneware Vase – Lilac, £14, Five And Dime

Romantic and quaint, we’re definitely sensing a nod to cottagecore when you fill this charming vase with dried flowers.

4. Heritage Tartan Wallpaper in Egyptian Blue and Mineral, £46 per roll, Lucie Annabel

Classic plaid prints can play up the dullest of corners, and spur the imagination with thoughts of a glowing fireplace, glass of claret and chic drinks trolley. This tartan wallpaper in Egyptian blue will give any room a fresh face and add a touch of drama.

5. Mustard House Pink Weave Set of 4 Placemats – Multi, £32, and Set of 4 Coasters, £16, MADE.com

For a lovely twist on table settings, who says checks can’t be contemporary?

6. Balmoral Check Cushion Covers, £6 each, Studio

For a quickie fabric fix, take an existing cushion pad and swap out the cover for one of these game-changing designs, available in all your favourite shades.

7. Gleneagles Pattern Carpet in Kinross Grey Plaid, £44.99 per square metre, Carpetright

This woven Wilton carpet in an elegant dove grey check will bring any space to life. Versatile enough to work like a dream with exposed wooden beams, neutrals and Scandi inspired mid-century furniture, not to mention country living schemes and monochrome room sets.

8. Merino Lambswool Navy Tartan Plaid Throw, £89.95, Annabel James

If you’re after a stylish merino lambswool throw to snuggle up with, while dipping your toe in the world of tartan, you can’t go wrong with the coordinating tones in this one.

9. Carnoustie Check Grey Blackout Lined Eyelet Curtains, from £40, Julian Charles

Winter warmth within easy reach, these dapper check curtains are fully lined, featuring easy to hang eyelets. Best of all, they’ll reduce draughts from windows and prevent the heat from escaping. What’s not to love?

10. Ellie Check Accent Chair with Plain Bolster Cushion in Plum Combination, £479, DFS

With its soft curves and sumptuous padding, this vintage-inspired accent chair certainly looks the part, especially if you’ve got your heart set on creating a comfortable seating area to sink into at the end of a long day. Available with a choice of oak and antique feet and 12 colour ways.

11. Berry Gingham Linen Bedtime Bundle, from £297 (Duvet Cover, Sheets Pillowcases; items also available separately), Piglet In Bed

A palate of berry-red gingham checks always feels right this time of year – and a real winner styled with burgundy blankets, vases of dried pampas grasses, quirky decos and curios. This set’s made from stonewashed European flax, prewashed for soft bedtime bliss.

12. Tartan Faux Fur Storage Basket, £9, Matalan

Since when did storage look so cushy? A perfect prop to clear the clutter, think magazines, home crafts, or even your favourite warming, wintry tipple.

UK Drive: Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS

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Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

By Jack Evans, PA Motoring Reporter.

Only Porsche’s most focused, performance-oriented models get the RS treatment. There’s been longstanding thought that the Cayman has been kept at such a level so as not to interfere with its 911 big-brother – but with the new 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the gloves are off.

This is a Cayman dialled right the way up. Acting as a flagship for the range, it gets the same engine as the larger 911 GT3 but in a more compact, lightweight body. And of course, as with any RS model, it’s got a host of aerodynamic touches that not only keep it as sticky in the bends as possible, but ensure nobody misses it. We’ve been behind the wheel…

Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

WHAT’S NEW?

Every part of the regular Cayman GT4 has been tweaked, sharpened and – in most places – made lighter in its evolution to RS specification. It weighs in at 1,415kg with fuel, some 35kg less than the regular GT4. This has been achieved through the widespread use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) in areas such as the bonnet and wings, while even the carpets have been made thinner and lighter.

A new Weissach package – fitted to our test car – takes these measures even further and adds a titanium roll cage, titanium exhaust pipes and a number of panels that are given a carbon-weave finish for an even sportier look.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

The GT4 RS makes use of the same 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six engine that you’ll find in the larger 911 GT3. That means an extra 79bhp over the standard GT4, with total power coming in at 493bhp. Torque has been lifted too, rising from 430Nm to 450Nm. All cars get Porsche’s seven-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic gearbox – there’s no manual option here, unlike the GT4.

What that equates to in terms of performance is a 0-60mph time of 3.2 seconds while flat-out it’ll manage 195mph, edging the standard GT4’s top speed of 187mph. Though fuel economy isn’t, of course, the real goal for a car like this Porsche claims that the RS will still return up to 22.8mpg, though these figures have come through the older NEDC testing cycle.

Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

There’s no need to dance around it – the Cayman 718 GT4 RS drives like few other cars available today. This is a car that takes the performance and brawniness of the larger GT3 and throws it into an even sharper and more compact package. The steering is spot-on, while the gear shifts from the PDK gearbox fire into place with scarcely believable crispness.

Then there’s the noise of the thing. The GT4 RS features air intakes behind the driver and passenger windows, so when you’re accelerating hard you get this glorious blend of intake noise and outright savagery from the engine. The engine, since we’re here, feels even more capable within the Cayman package, while the ride – though firm – is remarkably pliant. We even spent one or two hours on the motorway and the Cayman managed it without a quibble.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

Porsche’s RS models aren’t known for their shy and retiring looks, and the GT4 RS is no different. Our car’s Weissach package included a carbon-fibre weave bonnet and a huge rear wing, meaning everywhere it went, it attracted a crowd. But these types of cars aren’t designed to fly under the radar, so we can’t fault it for a bit of flamboyance.

The whole car is designed to go fast, after all, which is why it incorporates all manner of aerodynamic touches. The underneath of the car has been optimised to lower drag and it ties in with the rear diffuser, too. As a result of these changes – and others – the RS generates 25% more downforce than the regular GT4, in fact.

Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The cabin is definitely stripped back, but it hasn’t been left devoid of creature comforts either. Our car came with air conditioning (something that is usually taken away from lightweight models), and this does help to make the RS more agreeable as an everyday road car. The bucket seats – which can be adjusted for height – are hugely supportive, while the general driving position is absolutely spot-on.

Plus, because it’s still a Cayman, the GT4 RS has a usable front boot section in the nose which has 125 litres, while a rear storage area adds an extra 136 litres, so there’s more than enough space for a few bags.

Porche post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Prices for the Cayman GT4 RS start from £108,370 and though that represents a huge premium over the regular Cayman’s £47,700 starting price, it feels worth every single penny. Of course, the majority of that cost is going into mechanical upgrades, with all of Porsche’s motorsport learnings poured into this pint-sized performance car.

Features such as an adjustable chassis for race track use and ball-jointed suspension mountings – which help to give more direct handling – show that the upgrades to this car are all about making it go as quickly and drive as sharply as possible. You can – as with any Porsche – bump the price up considerably by going near to the options list, with our test car coming in at just over £133,000 after all of its extras had been applied.

VERDICT

The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is undeniably one of motoring’s all-time greats. This is a car to remind you just why driving is so special and, through its almost nerve-like link between driver and machine, ensures that each drive is just as memorable as the last.

Though it might be angled towards track use this is still a hugely competent road car and one that should be celebrated wholeheartedly. Its combination of pace and outright agility is nothing short of spectacular. It’s a sports car for the ages.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Model: Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS

Price: £108,370

Model as tested: Cayman GT4 RS

Price as tested: £133,549

Engine: 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated flat-six

Power: 493bhp

Torque: 450Nm

0-60mph: 3.2 seconds

Top speed: 195mph

Economy: 22.8mpg

Emissions: 299g/km CO2

Footnote – If you are looking for the perfect property to go with this car, why not consider this fine home

Ukrainian chef Olia Hercules on cooking as an act of resistance

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Ukrainian Chef post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

For Olia Hercules, cooking is normally her therapy, her safe space – but she lost this when Russia invaded her native country, Ukraine.

“For the first two months or so, I couldn’t really cook – it was a weird feeling,” the 38-year-old remembers. “Normally it’s an act of meditation and stress relief. If it’s a normal, everyday stress, I cook – especially if I make something a bit more involved, like dough, breadmaking, dumplings – something like that, it’s amazing.

“But when you’re going through trauma, it was completely different. I felt guilty eating at first, then I felt guilty cooking. It was a horrible feeling, and I couldn’t shake it off.”

Ukrainian Chef post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

She eventually felt differently while making her parents a meal in Italy after they fled Ukraine. “That’s when it lifted, and I was like yes, I’ve got it back. I’m enjoying making this borscht for them, I know it’s going to do so much good.”

Now, Hercules says she realises cooking is “an act of resistance and defiance, and not letting Putin and his goons take all the joy away from us – because that’s what they’re trying to do”.

Recently, after some particularly bad news about the war, Hercules regressed to those feelings – but her mother brought her back to herself. “She said, ‘This is what he’s [Vladimir Putin] trying to do. Don’t let him do this – this is how we’re going to lose if we’re going to be paralysed by fear all the time and stop living.’ So we can’t stop living – and food is life.”

Now, Hercules is learning to take better care of herself, whether that’s returning to cooking, booking herself into an embroidery course, or writing. She also set up the Cook for Ukraine campaign with friend and food writer Alissa Timoshkina, as a way of raising awareness.

“At first we thought, OK, this is going to be a hashtag, and maybe we’ll think of something – a donation situation,” she says. “We were like, it’s good enough to just do a hashtag, cook a Ukrainian meal, and educate people and keep Ukraine in the news, keep talking about it – and also this thing of connection.”

If somebody in Britain makes a Ukrainian dish, Hercules suggests: “It’s much easier for them to imagine a family that would have been having this dish somewhere in Ukraine – and now they can’t do that anymore. The headlines are there, and with time it’s only natural for people to start disassociating, and being like, OK, I need to preserve my sanity, I can’t look at this horror all the time.

“But having something cultural – especially something to do with food – keeps you connected, and also gives you strength in a way.”

The campaign’s success exceeded Hercules’ expectations, and as well as raising awareness around the situation in Ukraine, it’s also a window into the country’s unique cuisine.

She accepts there are preconceptions about Ukrainian food. “People have said it is all about potatoes and dumplings and overcooked cabbage, which was actually really hurtful. But stereotypes are stereotypes – I don’t blame people for having them.”

Ukrainian Chef post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

Instead, she wants people to know the cuisine is so much more than that – it’s “diverse, and can be fresh and herbaceous”.

Now though, Hercules doesn’t feel like she has to convince everyone that Ukraine is a rich and diverse country. It is – but she also says: “It’s time to embrace all of our potato and cabbage dishes, because they’re actually extremely delicious.”

She has one of these potato dishes in her latest cookbook, Home Food. A staple growing up, the recipe for crispy potatoes and onions is “something everybody could do – students do it – and the perfection of this dish is because you cut the potatoes in an imperfect way. [Even if] you’re striving to do really thin slices, inevitably some will be thicker than others – and that’s what you want, that’s what makes it so good. Because some of the potatoes become more crispy, and some become soft.”

Hercules rediscovered the recipe during the start of the pandemic, asking her mum about it (who, by the way, didn’t think it even counted as a recipe) – and now it’s well and truly back in her repertoire.

Ukrainian Chef post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

Through writing her new book, Hercules realised how much food can connect people – regardless of where you come from. She reflects on her time in Italy (she spent a year there during university as part of an exchange program), saying: “When I lived in Italy, I immediately connected to my fellow students” through food.

In her halls of residence, “We became friends with loads of Italian students living there – they were from all over, especially from the south of Italy. A few of them used to receive parcels from their families – one of the boys’ papa was a butcher, so he’d receive hunks of amazing cuts of meat and jars with what they call ‘sugo de la mama’ – like tomato sauce, either with meatballs or whatever. And we’d all benefit from it, because it’s so delicious.

This immediately transported Hercules back in time, to when her older brother went to university in Odessa when she was 12. “I remember my mum packing these big boxes, and once she even packed a whole roasted duck into the box, and you’d go to the bus station, and you’d pay someone to take the box on the bus, and then he’d receive it on the other end.”

When she first arrived in Italy, Hercules admits her grasp of the language was rudimentary – but she managed to communicate this story to her new friends, and find common ground.

“[Food] breaks barriers, and immediately makes you feel closer,” she reflects. “I think the book has become that in many ways, reflecting through cultures. I realised food and humour have been the two ways for me, in each culture I experienced or tried to assimilate into – as soon as there was some kind of a connection in what we ate, and as soon as I understood the humour in another language, I was like OK, this is it. I feel at home now.”

Home Food: Recipes To Comfort And Connect by Olia Hercules is published by Bloomsbury Publishing, priced £26. Photography by Joe Woodhouse. Available now.

Article by Prudence Wade, PA

How to help small birds this summer

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Help Small Birds post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

How to help smaller birds fight for their share in your garden

By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA.

One of the joys of having a garden is bird watching – whether it’s birdsong, the flutter of wings, a happy chirp, birds cooling off in your birdbath or feeding time.

When you’ve put out the seeds, scraps or finely chopped unsalted bacon, you want everyone to have a share of the pickings.

But if you’re not careful, it only takes a greedy magpie or squawking jackdaw to steal the best bites and leave the little ones with nothing.

So, is there any way you can at least deter some of the bigger birds to allow the smaller ones a chance?

Help Small Birds post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

Sarah Hancocks, of specialist CJ Wildlife says: “There is never a guarantee that by putting out bird food, larger birds won’t attempt to eat it. However, some foods such as nyjer seed are less likely to attract larger birds because they have the biggest draw to greenfinches and chaffinches.

“Mesh feeders that contain peanuts are also less likely to attract larger birds, as the mesh makes it more difficult for them to get to the food.

“There are also small steps you can take to help keep them away from your caged feeders while maintaining some harmony among all kinds of birds – we never want to leave anyone out,” she adds.

Here’s what experts advise to help smaller birds have their fair share.

1. Add a ground feeder

Ensure the larger birds have their own supply of food away from your small garden bird feeder – Hancocks says this will deter them away from waiting for scraps from the smaller birds.

2. Place your garden bird feeder behind dense shrubbery or planting

“Out of sight, out of mind! Larger ground feeding birds are less likely to forage for food that’s more hidden behind shrubbery and plants,” she says.

“Whereas smaller garden birds such as blue tits and chaffinches will root around for their food in the undergrowth, so hiding your bird feeder can help deter larger birds.”

Place your feeder close to a hedge or wall – this will stop any large birds landing on your feeder, causing it to swing and shake food to the floor.

“This often causes a feeding frenzy for ground feeding birds!” she adds.

3. Place some food higher

As Hancocks points out: “Larger birds are much more likely to sit and feed from greater heights. So by putting out some food on top of your garden shed, one top of a high wall or other high flat locations, this will keep the bigger birds happy and off the smaller garden bird feeders.”

4. Choose food that’s suitable for little birds

Help Small Birds post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

In terms of food to offer small birds in your garden at this time of year, Helen Moffat from the RSPB says black sunflower seeds are popular with lots of garden birds, from finches to robins and tits, along with other smaller seed varieties like millet and flaked maize.

“Split peas, beans, dried rice, lentils and even dog biscuits are sometimes added to cheaper seed mixes to bulk them out – and small birds cannot eat things like this unless they have been soaked, so try and avoid them,” advises Moffat.

Whilst there are chicks in nests, she recommends avoiding foods which pose choking risks like whole peanuts and fat.

“These foods become important later in the year, when birds need more calories to cope with the colder weather,” notes Moffat.

“You can also put out some staples from your own kitchen such as soft fruit, like halved apples and bananas, soaked raisins or grated cheese.”

5. Get the right feeder

As Moffat points out, feeders are key to helping ensure smaller birds can access food, if you’re concerned about larger species taking it all first.

Whatever food you choose, she says it’s still likely to be eaten by larger ones if they can get to it.

“Special nyjer seed feeders have very small feeding holes which are difficult for larger birds to feed from. Finches – especially goldfinches – love this tiny oil-rich seed,” she says.

“Hanging bird feeders are ideal for perch-feeding birds like tits, goldfinches, and greenfinches, and you can deter larger birds with ‘feeder guardians’ – cages placed around the feeders.”

Moffat says no feeder guardian is 100% effective – and small or juvenile squirrels can sometimes squeeze through – so she advises regular checking.

Also, having a mix of feeders is best, she says, to ensure all birds can access some food – and don’t forget clean water too, an essential all year round but especially during hot weather.

6. Consider the weather

Help Small Birds post from McCarthy Holden estate agents

Food for your garden birds becomes vital if there are changes in the weather, warns Moffat, such as the extreme heat we’ve had.

“The hard, dry earth makes it really difficult for ground-feeding birds like black birds and thrushes to reach earthworms, and likewise, cold, wet spells can affect the insects available.”

5 of the best parasols for your garden

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Big brollies are all the rage, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

Here comes the sun! Spending time eating al fresco, reading and relaxing, or simply watching the world go by, is one life’s little pleasures.

But sometimes a sunhat and pair of shades aren’t always the best protection, especially when those rays get a little more fierce – and yet you still want to sit outside.

For a little garden therapy, parasols are proving a hot favourite this summer.

“Parasols might be something of an essential, but can be so much more than a practical addition to outside spaces,” says Brendon Haxby, founder of interiors specialists Naken.

“We’ve seen a real move in how homeowners are using their home’s exteriors. Gardens, regardless of size, are becoming an extension of the home, with more people using their outdoor spaces to socialise, entertain and cook.

“So, it’s no surprise that when it comes to exterior styling, people are getting more picky – even when it comes to their parasols.

“A battered brolly from summers past no longer cuts it,” says Haxby.

He says for summer 2022, we’re going to see a lot more parasols that are inline with interior styles. “Expect a more maximalist approach – parasols that are a little ‘extra’.

“Think, tassels, more considered curves and a range of finishes that will complement existing garden furnishings,” adds Naken.

And just in case you’re sizing up your precious piece of patio, designers are catering for bijou balconies, as well as a manicured lawn.

Dave Dryden, Christow’s home and garden guru says: “As well as standard two metre, 2.4 metre, and 2.7 metre diameter parasols, we also stock a ‘Half Parasol’. Basically, the canopy is half the size of a normal canopy – kind of like a parasol that’s been chopped in half!” he adds. “They’re a popular choice if you have a small patio or balcony area, because they take up half the space.

Here’s how to feel you’ve got it made in the shade…

1. Banana Parasol, 3m, Navy, £79.99, Christow

Super for larger areas, this banana parasol has an offset base with an overhanging canopy, so there’s no pole in the middle to tie you to a table. Ideal for sun loungers or a paddling pool.

2. 2.4m Boho Tile Carousel Parasol, £100, Dunelm

Pretty as a picture, this boho beauty makes you want to unfurl a blanket, scatter some cushions and pop the cork on a bottle of pink prosecco.

3. Norfolk Leisure 2.7m Round Geisha Parasols, £219 each, Hayes Garden World

A kaleidoscope of colour, we’d have one of these gorgeous Geisha parasols in every shade, given half the chance.

4. Garden Must-Haves Carousel Outdoor Parasol – Anthracite & Green, £166.50, Naken

With a crank and tilt option, this pretty parasol can follow your shadow as the sun rises and sets.

5. Olive & Lilac Carousel Stripe Parasol, £375, Rockett St George

With a vintage-inspired design, trendy tassels and its own matching fabric carrier bag with straps, this parasol feels as much at home in the garden, as it does the beach.

6 key tips for planning the perfect Platinum Jubilee party

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Celebrate in style with fabulous food, decorations and entertainment. By Katie Wright.

It’s not often we’re gifted an extra long weekend, but that’s what’s happening this year, with a Bank Holiday added on Friday June 3 to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Plus, the usual late May bank holiday has been pushed back to Thursday June 2, meaning a four-day break at the end of spring for many of us.

If you’re choosing to celebrate 70 years of Her Majesty’s reign with a party, now’s the time to start thinking about the food and drink, decorations and other plans for a right royal knees-up.

Here, experts offer top tips on how to organise and host a brilliant Platinum Jubilee bash…

1. Start the preparations early

“Whether you’re planning a small gathering in your garden or arranging one of the thousands of street parties expected across the UK, the earlier you get organised the better,” says Sarah Allsop, creative manager at Party Delights. “The more you plan, the less stressful things will be, and you can sit back and enjoy the fun with your guests.”

Make sure you’ve got the go-ahead for any al fresco activities, she continues: “You will need permission from your local council if you and your neighbours are planning a street party and you want to close a section of the road to traffic. If you want to hold your party on external private land or green space, then the landowner will need to give their approval.”

Getting these permissions in place is definitely not a last-minute job – check what the deadlines are in your area and make sure to apply promptly.

2. Get the invites out

Next up is the guest list and invites, which is key when it comes to planning other elements of the party.

Allsop says: “Having an idea of numbers will help you to decide on how much space you need, the seating arrangements, your food and drink and what type of entertainment you might like to have. Get your invites out at least a month before and make sure you ask guests to RSVP.”

3. Choose your menu

Once you know how many you’re catering for, you can decide on your food and drink selection.

“Most people will opt for a buffet or afternoon tea-style menu,” Allsop says. “Afternoon tea is quintessentially British and fits perfectly with such a royal occasion.”

Ameer Kotecha, author of The Platinum Jubilee Cookbook (Jon Croft Editions, £30) set up the Platinum Pudding competition (platinumjubilee.gov.uk) to find a dessert to celebrate the occasion, the winner of which will be announced in mid-May.

“Obviously, I would recommend people serve up the platinum pudding as part of their street parties – the idea is it should be like a successor to the Victoria Sponge,” Kotecha says. “Then I would say try and think of things that maybe have a connection to the Queen and to the monarchy. The way you can tell is because they’ve been given royal warrants.”

For example, you could incorporate chocolate from Bendicks or Charbonnel et Walker, McVitie’s digestive biscuits or classic summer tipple Pimm’s.

Kotecha adds: “Try and feature Pimm’s in your dessert somehow or [use] McVitie’s digestives in a cheesecake. It’s quite a fun way of showing off British produce and the great stuff that we have.”

For larger gatherings such as street parties, it can help to share the load, Allsop says: “Allocate each of your neighbours something to bring for a shared table. Traditional items such as sandwiches, cakes and scones are typical but really anything goes.

“You might want to have some hot options on hand too, like pizzas or a large pot of stew. When planning your menu, make sure you ask guests if they have any dietary requirements so you can cater for them appropriately.”

4. Decide on your decor

“A party isn’t a party without decorations – and for an occasion like this, there’s no such thing as too much,” says Allsop. “In terms of colour, a traditional red, white and blue theme with Union Jacks and crowns aplenty will certainly be the popular choice. But if you want something a little more subdued then purple, gold and white can all feel very regal.”

For street parties, bunting is a must. “We have seen an incredible demand for it at Party Delights already and are selling thousands of metres a week,” says Allsop. “You can also create your own decorations by looking for printable options online or make traditional paper chains with red, white and blue card.”

5. Dress for the occasion

A dress code isn’t compulsory, of course, but suggesting an optional theme can be a fun addition to the party – just make sure to tell guests in advance so they have time to plan their outfits.

“Ask guests to dress to impress in their finest clothing, wear a particular colour, or even come as their favourite royal,” Allsop suggests. “For more of a light-touch dress code, jubilee party accessories such as hats, tiaras, wigs and masks are the perfect alternative.”

6. Keep the kids entertained

“If there’s going to be lots of children at your jubilee party, then you will want to make sure there is plenty to keep them occupied them all day,” Allsop says.

“Invest in some garden games or a pinata. These are great fun for all ages, even the adults,” she suggests. “Setting up an arts and crafts table with lots of jubilee themed activities can help keep little hands busy. Or, if the British weather is kind and the sun looks set to shine, set up the paddling pool or some garden water games to keep the kids cool as well as entertained.”

How to spruce up your front garden on a budget to help sell your home

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Because first impressions count, say the experts. By Hannah Stephenson.

Looking to sell your house this summer? First impressions count for a lot, so it may be time to spruce up your front garden.

Some 68% of home buyers think ‘kerb appeal’ is important when buying a home, according to a HomeOwners Alliance survey. A well-maintained front garden, pathways and fences were highlighted as important, in addition to a well-painted frontage.

“A few small changes could make your home more attractive to potential buyers. Take a day to clean your windows, mow the lawn and get rid of any weeds,” Mitchell suggests. “Repainting your front door, adding new hardware (a letterbox, number, and knocker) and freshening up any fencing can really make a difference to potential buyers.”

Agent Chris Husson-Martin adds: “If prospective purchasers are greeted by an overgrown patch of brambles and dead or dying plants, they will immediately assume the house is similarly presented.”

Want to maximise your home’s kerb appeal? Morris Hankinson, Director of Hopes Grove Nurseries (hopesgrovenurseries.co.uk), offers the following tips…

1. Get your lawn in order

“If you have an area of lawn, then this is one of the quickest and easiest fixes, as it can transform the appearance of your outdoor space. Keep your grass neatly – and regularly – cut,” says Hankinson.

“If it’s been looking long and unloved after the winter, cutting it may expose some bald patches – don’t buy expensive turf to fill the gaps because a scattering of grass seed ‘scratched in’ with a rake and watered will germinate and cover them quickly now we have some warmer weather.

“Keep the edges of the lawn neatly trimmed and delineated. Sharp edges are another easy quick win, focusing the eye away from less perfect horticultural aspects.”

2. Tidy up your beds

“With a tidy lawn, any messy flowerbeds will now come into clear view. Take out weeds, dead plants, old foliage, and prune back overhanging or overgrown shrubs. Plug any gaps with some new plants. Finally, consider adding a decorative mulch, such as bark or cocoa shells for a proper show garden finish.”

3. Buy seeds, not plants

“If you’re not in a huge rush to sell, now that the soil is warming up, gaps in your flowerbeds could be filled with some hardy annual bedding plants – these can be planted as seeds directly into your beds and borders.

“Only £10 or less spent on a few packets of seed could be enough to keep your garden plugged with colour for most of the summer,” adds Hankinson. “Go for easy and fast types such as cornflowers, love in the mist, calendula and the best of all ground-covering space fillers –nasturtiums.”

4. Source plants economically

“Check for discounted plants in nurseries and garden centres. Enthusiasts often sell their surplus from roadside stalls, church or school fetes, horticultural society sales and boot fairs. The key is not to be too fussy, if it looks good, healthy and is cheap then it will do a turn.”

5. Spruce up woodwork

“Tired-looking fences can give the impression of poor maintenance and discourage a potential buyer (or encourage them to put forward a cheeky offer). Get them all painted if they need it to bring your garden up to a good standard. Go darker with the colour and any planting or features you have will pop out with this effective dark backdrop.”

6. Clean, tidy and dress a paved area

“If you have a paved area, get it scrubbed or power-washed off and remove any leaves, weeds, algae and moss. Tidy up any messy potted plants and anything else that looks out of place. Refresh the pots with new plants if they need it. If you don’t have pots then get some to brighten it up,” Hankinson suggests.

“Go for small groups of smaller pots, set them at different levels for best effect – maybe one on the ground, one on a brick and the third on another upturned pot. They can be very effective and will be a lot cheaper than a few larger ones.”

7. Use recycled accessories

“This really is a good mindset to get into – at its simplest, it could be planting up an old pair of wellies or saucepans with some cheerful flowers or herbs. At the other extreme, perhaps a seating area constructed from upcycled waste pallets. Let your imagination take hold – the only rule here is it should be free, or almost free.”

8. Keep it simple

“Remember that you are selling, not staying. Nothing overly ambitious is required here, just good quality window dressing. Show your property in its very best light, without splashing out on a new water feature or decking.”

9. Do it yourself

Finally, Hankinson’s best piece of money-saving advice: tackle these tasks yourself. “If you employ an individual or company to carry out your garden jobs, labour will certainly be the largest part of the cost – and therefore the biggest saving is you!”

13 ways to switch up your home style with striking stripes

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These fine lines and broad strokes are grabbing our attention this season, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

There are stripes, and then there are stripes.

The kind that knock you for six with their snazzy colour combinations, some that look sharp, and fun pieces that bring a room to life with their circus stripes.

Either way, stripes make a statement, love the limelight, draw the eye in and, depending on how you use them, are a clever tool and timeless look.

Vertical stripes create an illusion of height, while horizontal stripes make everything look wider.

Wondering where to start? These appealing colourways are easy to live with and fit most schemes…

1. Oliver Bonas Azur Wiggle Stripe Platter, £49.50, rest of items from a selection, Oliver Bonas – available mid-March

Bold stripes have that knack of making everything look bang up to date, especially in chunky stoneware, teamed with colourful glassware, striped placemats and trendy squiggles.

2. The Small Stripy Terracotta Vase, £23, The Happy Blossoms

This playful vase with clashing colours looks groovy before you’ve even filled it with bright blooms.

3. Market Stripe Cerise Oil Cloth, £37, Bluebellgray

If you’re thinking warmer weather, braving the BBQ and tantalising tablescaping to accommodate all those marinades and weekend brunches, this oil cloth tablecloth can cope with any spills, and makes a sunny statement.

4. Kintaro Pitcher – Indigo, £40, OKA

Classic stripes fit country-kitchen style, as well as neutral décor and seaside views.

5. Dakarai Spice Roman Blind, from £37.75, Blinds-2-Go

A budget-friendly update that’s ‘pane’ free and easy to fit, stylish stripes with hints of warm spice work just as well with contrasting colours or complementary shades.

6. Candy Stripe Cheese Knives, £27.50, Oliver Bonas

Little touches like candy stripe cheese knives make a joyous addition to mealtimes, and this trio can be themed to a cheese and wine party.

7. Velvet Stripe Cushion, £20, Next

Dreamy in tangerine and blush pink, even if you’re not big on stripes, who wouldn’t be smitten with one of these on their sofa?

8. ‘Stripes’ White and Blue Wallpaper, £60 per roll, Paper Boy Wallpaper

When more is more, we love this graffiti spray stripe, which can be enhanced with corresponding cushions and other navy and white decorative pieces.

9. Kaikoo Cream & Black Stripe Woven Pouffe, £45, Direct.asda

Versatile and useful, this pouffe in smart black stripes doubles up as a spare seat, foot rest, and place to rest a tray or magazines.

10. Bonne Nuit Pastel French Art Print, from £41.95 (21 x 30cm), Framed and Mounted, Abstract House

Who says stripes can’t be soothing or make you sleepy?

11. Carnaby Stripe Towels in Blue, Neutral, Multi and Berry, from £11.20-£30.40, Christy

An easy way to jazz up a bathroom, this striped towel collection could be mistaken for Missoni without the designer price tag.

12. Green Striped Wooden Deck Chair with Head Cushion, £149.99, Gardenesque

Channelling some boho chic with its fringed hem and comfy head cushion, this mint green deck chair is destined to be a hit and would look just as lovely in a sun room or conservatory, as it would a manicured lawn. An added bonus, it folds down flat for that long-awaited jaunt to the seaside.

13. Water Resistant Garden Outdoor Bench Seat Pad – Pixel Stripes (available in 2-Seater or 3-Seater size), from £69.99, Water Resistant Garden Cushions, £29.99 each, Celina Digby

Another easy update, especially if your garden furniture’s looking a little tired or weathered. Water resistant and perfect for al fresco dining, this seat pad and matching cushions look divine placed near geraniums and hydrangeas.

Inheritance planning: How to pass down wealth to younger generations and save on the tax bill

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Nearly nine in 10 parents plan leave money to children or grandchildren in their will – but less than half have actually written one. By Vicky Shaw.

Many parents and grandparents have ideas about how they would like to pass wealth down the generations. Yet around six in 10 (59%) do not currently have a will, according to new research by LV=.

While nearly nine in 10 parents (88%) plan to leave money to their children or grandchildren in their will, only 41% have actually written one, the pensions and retirement specialist found.

Wealthier or ‘mass affluent’ people (those with assets of £100,000 and £500,000 excluding property) are more likely to have their affairs in place to pass on an inheritance, according to the Wealth and Wellbeing Monitor – a quarterly survey of 4,000-plus UK adults.

When it comes to mass affluent parents, more than half (51%) already have a will in place, and a fifth (20%) have put money into an investment for their children or grandchildren, compared with one in eight (12%) of all parents across the survey. Nearly a fifth (17%) of wealthier parents had also spoken to a financial adviser about the best way to pass on wealth.

What happens if you don’t do the prep?

Failing to write a will or complete estate planning can potentially lead to unexpected inheritance tax (IHT) bills being levied on someone’s estate when they die. There’s normally no inheritance tax to pay if the value of someone’s estate is below the £325,000 threshold, or everything above the £325,000 threshold is left to their spouse, civil partner, a charity or a community amateur sports club.

Clive Bolton, managing director of protection, savings and retirement at LV= says: “Although people recognise the financial benefits of doing things like writing a will, it is striking that only a minority have taken action to do so. Estate planning can save a people a huge amount of tax and ensure your family receive a financial legacy you want them to have.”

Here are LV=’s tips for passing on wealth…

1. You could use allowances to give tax-free gifts

Someone can potentially give away a total of £3,000 worth of gifts each tax year without them being added to the value of their estate. This is known as their ‘annual exemption’. The £3,000 can go to one person or be split between several people.

It is also possible to carry any unused annual exemption forward to the next tax year – but only for one tax year. The current tax year will end soon. The tax year runs from April 6 to April 5 each year. If you die within seven years of giving a gift and there is inheritance tax to pay, the amount of tax due depends on when you gave it.

LV= also suggests that if someone has more income than they need to maintain their normal standard of living and they regularly gift the excess income to help support someone else financially, these gifts could fall under a ‘normal expenditure out of income’ inheritance tax exemption. LV= suggests seeking professional advice though if someone is looking to rely on this exemption, to ensure the gifted income qualifies.

2. Consider life insurance to cover the tax bill

If someone’s estate is likely to pay inheritance tax, LV= suggests they could consider taking out a whole of life insurance policy placed in trust that will cover the tax bill.

Alternatively, if someone is gifting assets which should eventually bring their estate below the inheritance tax threshold, there may be other insurance policies which are more appropriate.

3. Would a trust be appropriate?

If someone is not ready to make outright gifts, LV= says trusts may allow them to keep control over who will benefit and when. It adds that financial advice tends to be needed when using trusts.

4. Help to boost younger generations’ savings pots

Parents and grandparents can contribute to a child’s Junior Isa, which can be unlocked when they turn 18. If the child or grandchild is aged between 18-40 and trying to save up to get on the property ladder, helping them save into a Lifetime Isa (Lisa) can be beneficial. The UK Government will add a 25% bonus to deposits of up to £4,000 a year.

5. Consider starting a pension for children and grandchildren

Although most people won’t set up a pension until they reach working age, a pension can be started as soon as someone is born. In addition, contributions made by a parent or grandparent, which can be made directly to the plan as ‘third party contributions’, can be treated for tax relief purposes as if they were made by the beneficiary themselves.

Although pension contributions can be one of the more tax efficient ways to gift money to a child or grandchild, LV= cautions that the money is likely to be inaccessible until the child nears retirement.

What is home staging? 5 ways it can help you sell your house faster and for a better price

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Home staging can increase a property’s value by 10% and sell it three times faster. Lisa Salmon finds out more.

Selling your home quickly and for a high price is what every house seller hopes for. But aside from tidying up and sticking a ‘for sale’ sign in your front garden, what can you do to get the best possible quick and lucrative sale?

If you’re prepared to invest a bit of money to sell quickly – for a high price – home staging could be the answer.

Home staging – which started in the US in the early Seventies – involves enhancing a property’s best features to attract buyers.

“As much as homeowners want to sell their homes fast and at the best price, most of the time, very little it done to achieve that goal,” says Paloma Harrington, founder of the Home Staging Association UK & Ireland (HSA; homestaging.org.uk). She says homebuyers now spend more time looking at photos, videos, and floorplans before arranging viewings, so presentation is more important than ever.

“Staged properties get more viewings, stay less time on the market, and have better chances of receiving higher offers,” she says. “Staging a property is no longer a method for simply increasing offer value – it’s become a necessity for maintaining and even exceeding pricing expectations.”

But while the idea of hiring someone to stage your property might sound like a nice idea, is it really worth it? Elaine Penhaul, founder of home staging company Lemon & Lime Interiors (lemonandlimeinteriors.co.uk), says the cost of professional staging varies from roughly 0.5%-1.5% of the property guide price, depending on its size, value and what needs to be done.

The HSA’s 2019 Home Staging report estimated home staging costs can range from around £500 to more than £5,000, but found staging can increase a home’s value by up to 10%. In addition, 85% of estate agents reported that a staged home sells up to three times faster than a non-staged property.

Penhaul says home staging disregards the tastes of the property owner, basing the design of rooms on what will attract the widest target audience. “Home staging makes a home more appealing to a higher number of potential buyers, thereby selling a property more swiftly and for more money,” she explains. “On average, the occupied properties I’ve worked on sold four times faster after staging, and mostly above the asking price, so it’s in everyone’s best interests to stage before selling.”

Here, Penhaul outlines five basic principles of home staging…

1. Declutter and depersonalise

Decluttering is one of the most important steps when staging a home, stresses Penhaul. “Buyers are often expected to see past clutter, but this can drastically slow down the selling process and decrease the property’s value,” she explains. “By presenting the house as untidy and apparently uncared for, potential buyers will quickly assume it’s not well-maintained, which will be reflected in any offers.”

She says potential buyers want to be able to imagine their own possessions in a house they might buy, which is why it’s important to ‘depersonalise’ it as much as possible. “While selling a home can be an emotional process, depersonalising it can help a seller to start the process of ‘letting go’,” she says. “Tidying away children’s toys, ornaments, family photographs and portraits, plus any other collectables that might not suit another buyer’s taste, is an important start to the moving process.”

2. Ensure space is used well

Many houses contain ‘redundant’ spaces, such as second sitting rooms, spare bedrooms or cellars, explains Penhaul. “If a space is too big, it can often overwhelm buyers, so you should look to fill the space with the right sized furniture,” she advises, pointing out that home stagers would do this through furniture rental.

Sometimes, these ‘redundant’ rooms have been used as a dump for clutter, or boxes ahead of a planned move, says Penhaul. “This prevents viewers from seeing these rooms as another asset to their new home. A bedroom without a bed will appear smaller than it is. A box room used for ironing won’t feel as though it could possibly be an appealing home office. Ensuring every room has a function targeted to the buyer market will create a faster sale with higher offers,” she promises.

Plus, with more buyers looking for a property they can work from, it’s important to stage and showcase a room’s multiple purposes, stresses Penhaul. “Highlight selling points, such as close-away desk units inside cupboards, and ensure spaces are efficiently lit to bring light to rooms which lack natural light – this can really transform a room’s appeal.”

3. Spruce up the exterior

Unappealing exteriors can lose a sale before the buyer’s even set foot through the door, warns Penhaul, so it’s worthwhile giving your home’s exterior a facelift. New windows and doors look great but will cost thousands, so she suggests: “Rather than spending a fortune on refitting new frames and doors, spray your existing ones with a lick of paint, to give them a new lease of life, and possibly add up to £10,000 to your house value.”

4. Consider art rental

You may not have thought of this one, but renting some classy art as you try to sell your home could really pay dividends, says Penhaul. “Art makes a home more human. Breathing life into a room, it is more than just an aesthetic – it’s about evoking an emotion in the potential buyer – that’s what sells.”

She explains that art can be the guiding framework of a room, helping build the overall layout for placing furniture, maximising space and creating a focal colour scheme, which sets the ambience and feeling of a space. “Introduce art as a tool to make your home more appealing, taking shapes, colour and themes to guide the rest of your space, ensuring the entire home feels more cohesive,” she says.

5. Add internal panelling

Modern and traditional panelling techniques are increasingly popular among current buyers, says Penhaul, pointing out that for less than £100, it’s possible to create a desirable feature wall that gives off an expensive look and feel to potential buyers. “Formerly associated with luxurious and historic buildings, panelling adds an immediate value to your space, as it creates depth and interest when looking at plain and square rooms,” she explains.

5 ways tenants looking to rent can stand out against strong competition

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Think you’ve found your perfect home, but worry someone else will snap it up? Here’s how to give yourself an edge over the competition.

Competition for rental properties is strong in many areas, and there are signs it’s also been affecting prices.

In the year leading up to January 2022, UK rental prices accelerated at their fastest annual pace since 2017, according to the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures.

So if you’ve found your perfect place to live, how can you make yourself stand out to the landlord or lettings agency?

Here are some tips from Chris Hutchinson, CEO of rental platform Canopy (canopy.rent), to help boost your chances…

1. Be prepared

Making an offer on a rental property often means filling out a written application.

Hutchinson says: “Having all the paperwork and information prepared will show the landlord you are organised, and help build a strong first impression.”

Make sure you have all the necessary references and payslips in good order.

2. Present yourself well

Being punctual, polite and conscientious could go a long way when viewing a rental property.

Hutchinson says: “You are trying to show the landlord you are dependable – and it also never hurts to offer to take your shoes off when you enter the property.”

3. Ask good questions

“Asking about bin collection, for example, will show you are thinking about keeping the property clean,” Hutchinson suggests.

4. Offer something extra

If competition is strong for a particular property, the landlord may find it difficult to distinguish between applicants.

Hutchinson says: “Offering to sign a longer lease may also help, but this can vary from landlord to landlord – it won’t hurt to ask the question.”

But he does recommend caution, in case this causes your landlord “to expect more in the future”.

5. Be quick

The longer a property is left standing empty without tenants, the longer the landlord goes without receiving any rental income.

If you are satisfied the property you’ve viewed is the one for you, Hutchinson suggests: “Don’t dawdle, ask to fill out a rental application.

“This will also help to limit the competition, as landlords generally won’t want to have too many applications to filter through before choosing their new tenant.”

13 ways to style up your outdoor space for spring entertaining

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It’s not too soon to be thinking about getting your garden or patio ready for warmer weather, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

With spring collections landing at a rapid rate, now’s the time to up your garden game.

Consider key pieces to create a chic corner for al fresco entertaining or chilling by yourself, perhaps an outdoor sofa to sprawl out on with a cheeky cocktail come the first heatwave and signs of summer.

It’s safe to say we’ve acquired quite a taste for outdoor living after a turbulent two years, and styling up a suntrap or precious piece of green lawn rewards in so many ways. Especially with barbecue season coming into swing, not to mention get-togethers on a grander scale back on the cards.

Looking for a refresh? These top finds would all do the job nicely…

1. George Home Natural Novaro Egg Chair, £249, direct.asda.com

The easiest way to kick-start your patio prowess is with a statement piece – and egg chairs are where it’s at this summer. Think self-gift seating for relaxing and unwinding. With a trendy wicker finish and comfy cushions, mix this one with greenery and terracotta pots to complete the look.

2. Habitat Kora 2-Seater Egg Bench – Natural, £440, Habitat

Alternatively, double the pleasure with room for two.

3. Habitat 2-Seater Bar Bistro Set, £250, Habitat

Staying with the rattan theme, this stylish table with matching bar stools can be accessorised with faux fur chair throws while it’s still chilly, or colourful cotton throws for a boutique-y hotel look when you’re serving spritzes and nibbles.

“We’ve seen demand for bistro sets grow steadily each year, as customers embrace café culture in their outdoor spaces,” says Rachael Fell, furniture buying manager at Habitat. “Suitable for compact areas as well as larger settings, these styles are ideal for renters looking to move furniture from home to home.”

4. Coyle Square 2–Person 80cm Long Dining Set by Corrigan Studio, £309.99, Wayfair

As Nadia McCowan Hill, Wayfair’s resident style advisor put its: “A relaxed atmosphere can be achieved however big or small the garden get-togethers are, with the right seating and accessories. As a starting point, think about what kind of entertaining you’re going to do most of. This will ensure the garden furniture chosen gets maximum use.”

With this in mind, you can’t go wrong with this lightweight dining set, which will look just as well in a kitchen or sunroom and can easily be transported outside.

5. Fire Pit AFTONFALK (D58 x H23cm) Black, £40, JYSK

For a quick fix, a budget-friendly outdoor fire pit combines ambience and function with its warm glow, plus it’s a brilliant focal point.

6. John Lewis & Partners 4-seat Lounging Set, £999 (available late March); ANYDAY Sky Jute Rug, from £140; cushions from a selection, John Lewis

For a Mediterranean style vibe, there’s nothing like a low-slung sofa and simple coffee table with short legs, with scattered cushions and natural jute rugs. Summer straw hats pinned on walls make a great final touch.

7. Helsinki Corner Dining Set, £1,250, Next

Meanwhile, this contemporary corner sofa seats eight, and comes with two low-slung stools and dining table with wood effect top. Large terracotta pots and containers spilling out with trailing plants and flowers will inspire happy thoughts of faraway places.

8. Glyndebourne Reusable Picnic Dinner Plates, £8 each, and Bowls, £7 each, Glyndebourne Shop

A classy choice for al fresco dining and in tune with dove grey dining schemes, this pretty pattern’s based on Glyndebourne’s Organ Room ceiling design, where opera singers first performed.

9. John Lewis & Partners Salsa Round Garden Coffee Table (70cm), Two Tone Yellow, £149, other items from a selection, John Lewis

A fun way to funk up an existing sofa set is with a pop of colour and a coffee table in a bold shade, especially if it’s sunshine yellow like this one. Come the day, a jug of sangria or Buck’s Fizz will taste even more uplifting and delicious.

10. Cream Canvas Hanging Chair, £39, direct.asda.com

There’s something about this hanging chair that ticks all our ‘must buy’ boxes. We love the boho fringe and nod to macramé.

11. CosmoLiving by Cosmopolitan Taura Resin Rope Lounge Chair – Grey, £199, Freemans

Ideal for a small balcony or petite patio, this lounge chair will fit neatly into a tight space and looks so inviting with its round frame and padded seat. Try making even more of the look by painting an exterior wall in mauve pink for extra impact.

12. RANGSTRUP D110 + 4 PANDUMBRO Nature table and chairs set, currently £269.99 (was £339.95), JYSK

No matter where you decide to place accent pieces, you can’t go wrong with a round table and wicker dining chairs, which can be tucked underneath when not in use. And to help you make the most of your space, Rikke Blaeside, design and range manager at JYSK, says to try layering various types of outdoor lighting to add depth to the garden.

“Solar lamps will provide a subtle light throughout the evening and are perfect for dotting within flowerbeds or plant pots to light up pockets of your garden; trail string lights along a fence or pergola, and elevate the look with lanterns to ensure a warm glow.”

13. GAMMELBY Grey Chairs, £199.99 each, table from a selection, JYSK

For more seating inspiration, these wicker-look chairs channel texture to beautiful effect and will complement larger sized tables.

5 easy lunch-break updates for a 60-minute makeover in your home

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These quick fixes are cost-effective and can be done in less than an hour, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

Short on time but big on style?

Want to make some home improvements without getting bogged down with a DIY project you may live to regret? Or just fancy a fast fling with a drill, paintbrush or tired piece of furniture?

These small tweaks and bijoux projects can change the feel of your home and breathe new life into your furnishings, four walls, windows, and generally help clean up your act.

Indeed, some are so bite-sized, you’ll still have time for a quick snack…

1. Give outdated cabinetry an upgrade

“Switching out your standard handles for something more luxe can transform an inexpensive kitchen, to one that feels stylish and bespoke, says Jenna Choate, co-founder of Interior Fox.

Easier than you might think, Choate says they usually come in a standard size, which means the handles and hinges can be unscrewed and replaced using the existing screw. “Warm up the finishes with brass, or opt for matt-black for a contemporary look that feels sleek and modern.”

Depending on your budget, along with online shopping sites such as Amazon, check out Plank Hardware, who have a great selection of door knobs in brass, matt black, satin nickel, pink and blue, which can be paired with their door handle collection.

Suitable for kitchen cabinets, drawers and dressers, prices start from as little as £6.95 (per knob), and come with M4 4 x 25mm machine screws for easy installation.

2. Add open shelving to a blank wall

“There are some quick and simple ways to update your kitchen that won’t require much time, budget or skill,” suggests Choate. “If you’re looking for a way to bring a sense of style into a bare kitchen, consider adding open shelving to a blank wall.

“Use this area to stack artisanal bowls and cups, as well as your favourite jugs, or decant dry goods into glass storage jars and canisters, from pasta and rice, to nuts or spices. The key thing here is to not over clutter the space, keep the items to a minimum for a look that feels both practical and stylish.”

3. Add some extra wow-factor to windows with a decorative film

Whether you’re living in the home of your dreams or are a first-time buyer, not all of us are lucky enough to have a room with a view.

It might be light and bright, but if there’s a tiny snag when you look out, a decorative window film could be the answer, such as this Feathers Printed Window Film, priced from £11.50, Purlfrost.

“Made-to-measure and assembled in minutes, this easy update offers complete privacy to onlooking neighbours and a fuss-free alternative to sheers or shutters,” says Joanna Baumard, co-founder of Purlfrost.

“With a wide choice of designs to choose from, you can really let your personality shine through,” says Baumard. “Opt for a bold floral or abstract pattern to create a design statement, or for those looking for something a little more understated, a delicate frosted design.”

Easy to apply in minutes, they send detailed instructions and a tool kit with each order, making it as simple and stress-free as possible. “You’ll be amazed how easy this DIY job is and how it completely revamps any room in the house in just a few minutes,” she adds.

4. Re-arrange your book shelves

You don’t need to be a bookworm to get the ‘bookshelves look’ but it helps. Otherwise, charity shops are great hunting ground and will add some bookish appeal to forgotten corners of the room, or create a wonder wall with statement shelving.

As Kelly Collins, interior designer and head of creative at Swyft points out: “Bookshelves are becoming an interior design staple. Versatile, customisable and cheap, they are a great way to inject a bit of extra personality into your home.

“If your home needs a revamp, or you’re simply changing up your interiors, a quick lunch-time job is rearranging their decor. It might seem simple, but there’s so much to be done with the contents of your shelves.”

For a calming, organised appearance, she says to colour code your books. “This is a Pinterest-inspired decor tip that makes your shelving unit look cohesive, yet playful.

“Alternatively, move your ornaments around, playing with placement and position. If you have something you particularly like, choose this as the focal point and build your design around it.”

5. Be creative with colour and broaden you paint prowess

We all know a lick of paint can do wonders for our interiors. But how about painting something that’s special to you? That little jolt of happiness when you paint the inside of a wardrobe housing your favourite frocks, or painting something you’ve salvaged from a skip, can make all the difference.

A great go-to is Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint (from £23.95 per litre) which can be applied to most surfaces – wood, metal, laminate – for a velvety matt finish without the hassle of priming or sanding, so saving time with brilliant results.

For a lustrous finish – save this for another lunch hour – top your Chalk Paint brushstrokes with her Pearlescent Glaze (from £13.95 for 250ml) for a lovely, light reflecting shimmer.

Also, try switching up your colour scheme to brights or pretty pastels. YesColours is a brand new eco paint company with fully recyclable packaging sold from one litre pouches, priced £21, so easy to handle for small jobs.

Or think timeless and calming, aka sage green – the new neutral in the world of interiors.

“Sage greens, beiges and greys are a great way to bring the outside in, and with a combined monthly search volume of nearly 200k, you’ll be right on trend for 2022,” says Jo Winston, sales director at St Modwen Homes.

“Plus, grabbing your paintbrushes is a relatively quick and simple option if you’re looking for a refresh.”

5 easy ways to work the Seventies trend at home

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Go groovy with your decor, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

A decade defined by disco music, eye-catching prints, a colour scheme of browns, oranges and greens and shot of glamour for good measure, the Seventies certainly captured our attention.

And we’re still feeling the love – so much so that designers continue to be inspired by the 1970s, reviving the look with a range of ideas to fire the imagination.

There’s a sense of fun when we reconnect with this decade’s trademark palette of brights, as well as the feelgood factor of nature (house plants were one of the hottest trends at the time), and there’s good reason key pieces such as vintage chairs, lava lamps and eclectic homewares have never lost their appeal.

Here’s how to rock the Seventies vibe at home…

1. Play up patterns and prints

“The 70Seventies was such a ground-breaking era in interior design and it still inspires us today,” says Rachael Doble, co-founder of Carmine Lake. “For an instant injection of Seventies glam, a feature wall in a 1970s-inspired design will score plenty of style points.

“Make sure it has a strong, distinctive print and a palette of browns, oranges and reds for maximum impact.”

Abbas Youssefi, director of Porcelain Superstore, agrees: “Seventies interior style was all about statement patterns in strong, earthy colours. Our Sunset Astro pays homage to the 1970s vibe, with the red and terracotta shades exuding warmth.

“For maximum impact, use these rich tiles to create a striking splashback, while keeping the rest of the kitchen relatively simple.”

2. Rally retro accessories

Market finds – such as boho-chic rattan and leather swivel chairs – are easy ways to introduce the look, if and when you can track them down.

Otherwise, online shopping sites such as Etsy and Ebay are good hunting-ground for things like wicker and teak furniture, retro glass vases and – love it or loathe it – the lava lamp.

“A simple but extremely effective way to introduce 1970s style to your home is with statement lighting, a trend we’re seeing for 2022,” notes Etsy trend expert, Dayna Isom Johnson. “I also like vintage wall prints, which is an inexpensive way to experiment with adding Seventies flair to your home without much commitment.”

Meanwhile, Molly Pusey, vice-president of supply at Fy! describes the Seventies trend as bringing a touch of luxe and nostalgia, especially with a retro colour palette of terracotta orange, aqua tones and rich greens.

“Opt for mid-century furniture pieces and add a contemporary edge with velvet textiles and contrasting textures,” says Pusey. “Finish with the warm glow of a mushroom lamp for a sense of vintage glamour.”

3. Hang house plants aplenty

Whether its with macramé or a glittering disco ball, stringing and hanging your plants is a stylish way to work the Seventies’ take on greenery in the home.

Plus it’s a space-saving way of bringing the leafy world inside, as you won’t need to worry about running out of room on shelves and cabinet tops.

4. It’s cool to colour-clash

“The Seventies were defined by the bold sound of the funk era. The music was rich and brazen and really made you stop in your tracks to listen,” says Chris Bond, director at The Rug Retailer.

“From an interiors perspective, for me 1970s style is all about capturing the excitement and confidence of the funk movement, so strong colours and shapes are an absolute must. And don’t be afraid of clashing hues too – the more the merrier.”

Try mixing and matching your furniture, rather than sticking with variations of the same shade in a room. Or, adding pops of clashing colours in accessories – or a bold, geometric rug – is a quick way to get the look.

5. Flaunt your flower-power

Think cosmic blooms in sunshine yellow and other happy brights. Going bold with pops of pretty petals will make everything look fresh and modern, and you can always work the wicker look in the form of lampshades and shelving, or a sweet bedside table.

Also, be on the lookout for crochet wall hangings (Aldi currently has a Crafty Crochet Wall Hanging Kit for £5.99, if you fancy giving it a go yourself). Another key find is a vintage sunburst wall clock – a prime example of why 1970s style stands the test of time.

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

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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.

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