Lauren Bradbury
Lauren Bradbury is a freelance writer and major homes enthusiast. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from the University of Chichester in 2016, before dipping her toe into the world of content writing. After years of agency work, writing everything from real-life stories to holiday round-ups, she decided to take the plunge and become a full-time freelancer in the online magazine world. Since then, she has become a regular contributor for Real Homes and Ideal Home, and become even more obsessed with everything interior and garden related. As a result, she’s in the process of transforming her old Victorian terraced house into an eclectic and modern home that hits visitors with personality as soon as they walk through the door.
Ideal Home Truths
Where’s your happy place?
My happy place is sitting in my living room with my dog by my side. Myself and my husband have painted the walls around five times since we moved in, but have finally settled on a sage green colour that has turned it into the cosy space I was really hoping for.
What’s your home addiction?
I just can’t get enough of candles and reed diffusers. Every room in my house smells different, which means I’m hit with a new smell everywhere I walk. For some reason, this just puts a smile on my face and really awakens my senses - especially when I’m working from home.
What is your next home project?
Since moving into my home in 2020, I’ve tried to avoid any major renovations, but my bathroom is in need of some serious TLC. Like many Victorian properties, the bathroom is on the ground floor and is extremely hard to ignore. So, I’m hoping to transform the old, white bathroom into a bright oasis that still acknowledges its Victorian roots.
Latest articles by Lauren Bradbury
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7 expert-approved tips to keep peonies blooming for longer and extend this beautiful plant’s flowering season
If 7-10 days just isn’t enough, check out these peony hacks
By Lauren Bradbury
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When to deadhead irises - Experts urge gardeners to complete this essential task as soon as possible to avoid disappointment next year
Your irises will show you when the time is right
By Lauren Bradbury
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Experts say these are the plants you should prune in June to get your garden in shape for summer
These are the plants that need your attention this month
By Lauren Bradbury
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Froth on plants? Experts warn homeowners as potentially dangerous spittlebugs invade gardens
June is prime spittlebug time
By Lauren Bradbury
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What to plant in June - the best flowers, fruits and vegetables you should sow and grow this month, according to experts
June is all about that veg
By Lauren Bradbury
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Should you deadhead lupins? Experts explain how this one task can improve the longevity of this cottage garden favourite
Deadheading isn’t essential, but it’s definitely worth it
By Lauren Bradbury
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Still buying raspberries from the supermarket? Stop paying £2 a punnet and grow raspberries at home instead
Grow an endless (and cheap) supply of raspberries, year-after-year
By Lauren Bradbury
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Aldi is launching a bladeless fan to help you beat the heat this summer - and it’s over £300 less than the cheapest Dyson on the market
For just £39.99, how could you say no?
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to train wisteria - expert tips for growing these romantic blooms up walls, pergolas, and garden arches
Transform your home or garden into a scene from Bridgerton
By Lauren Bradbury
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5 of the most common container plant problems and how to fix them, according to experts
How to deal with pests, yellowing leaves, stunted growth and more
By Lauren Bradbury
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These cooling mattress toppers, pillows, and duvets are the hidden gems of the M&S homeware sale - and they’re currently 40% off
Ready to switch to summer bedding? M&S has got you covered
By Lauren Bradbury
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8 of the best climbing plants for pots to add height and style to your container garden
These potted climbing plants are perfect for small gardens and balconies
By Lauren Bradbury
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What to do when alliums finish flowering - Experts explain your two choices and how they'll affect next year's blooms
If you want your alliums to come back next year, you have a choice to make
By Lauren Bradbury
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What is keyhole gardening? Why it may be time to take your raised beds to the next level and create a sustainable keyhole garden at home
Are keyhole gardens the next generation of raised beds?
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to grow cucumbers vertically - a step-by-step guide to help you nail this space-saving growing method
It’s the perfect option for smaller gardens
By Lauren Bradbury
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Should I deadhead rhododendrons? That all depends on the size of your garden, according to experts
Deadheading rhododendrons will result in more blooms, but it can also come with consequences
By Lauren Bradbury
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Fast-growing screening plants to avoid if you want to keep your garden in check (and your neighbours on your good side)
Not all fast-growing screening plants are a welcome addition to your garden
By Lauren Bradbury
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Foxgloves were the surprising star of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, and this is how to grow your own
Whether from seed or plug plants
By Lauren Bradbury
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How do you get rid of ants in a kitchen? 5 foolproof ways to banish these critters once and for all
Sorry, ants. If you’re not paying, you’re not staying…
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to propagate peonies by division - a step-by-step guide to fill your garden with these stunning blooms for free
It’s the easiest (and most effective) way to propagate peonies
By Lauren Bradbury
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5 peony pruning mistakes to avoid if you want these romantic blooms to come back year after year
Don’t risk damaging these delicate blooms for good
By Lauren Bradbury
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What are self-watering plant pots? Everything you need to know about the invention that’s taking the RHS Chelsea Flower Show by storm
Busy life? Self-watering plant pots could be exactly what you’re looking for
By Lauren Bradbury
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Topsoil vs compost - experts explain the key differences to help you choose the right option for your garden
They have very different uses, after all
By Lauren Bradbury
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Today's best Dyson deals on vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, heaters, fans and more
Our edit of today's best Dyson deals – save up to 50% on essential household appliances
By Lauren Bradbury