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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Do I need planning permission for a pergola? It all depends on these 3 things, according to experts
It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer
By Lauren Bradbury
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Box tree caterpillars are quietly destroying Britain’s gardens, but this is how you can get rid of them for good
For starters, what are box tree caterpillars?!
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can you reuse vacuum cleaner bags? Experts issue warning to homeowners who think it'll be more eco-friendly
Think twice before reusing your vacuum cleaner bags
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can you take cuttings from peonies? Yes, as long as you follow this step-by-step guide
There are a few things you need to know before getting too scissor-happy
By Lauren Bradbury
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Should you deadhead peonies? Experts reveal how you can get the most out of these romantic blooms
If you want your peonies to bloom year after year, you should listen up
By Lauren Bradbury
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Are table fire pits worth it? Experts explain the pros and cons of this 2-in-1 garden addition
A table fire pit seems to offer you the best of both worlds, but is it really the best?
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can I paint my side of a neighbour's fence? Experts urge people to think twice before picking up a paintbrush
Unfortunately, the law isn’t on your side…
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to clean a lawn mower - A step-by-step guide to keep your lawn mower (and your lawn) in tip-top condition
When was the last time you cleaned your lawn mower?
By Lauren Bradbury
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How much does it cost to run an oil-filled radiator? And how to save money when using one
This affordable and portable heating option could be the answer to your winter woes
By Lauren Bradbury
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How much does it cost to run central heating for one hour?
And it’s going to become even more expensive soon
By Lauren Bradbury
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Does an air fryer save you money? Yes, and not just because it costs less to run
It’s no wonder we’re all obsessed with them
By Lauren Bradbury
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How much electricity does a slow cooker use? It’s even cheaper than you’d think
Cooking ‘low and slow’ could be the key to lower energy bills
By Lauren Bradbury
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5 things experts want you to know before buying a charcoal BBQ
Want flame-grilled burgers on tap? There are some things you need to know first
By Lauren Bradbury
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When to fertilise a lawn - Experts reveal the exact months you should give your lawn an extra nutrient boost
You should be fertilising your lawn twice a year, at least
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to stop rats in the garden - Experts explain why rats are invading Britain’s gardens and what you can do to keep them at bay
Wondering why rats are scurrying around more than ever? Well, there’s a reason for that
By Lauren Bradbury
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5 things experts want you to know before buying a pizza oven
Everything you need to become a pizza oven aficiona-dough
By Lauren Bradbury
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What’s the difference between a gazebo and a pergola? We asked the experts
They’re two completely different structures, after all
By Lauren Bradbury
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Gozney vs Ooni - Which cult pizza oven brand is the cream of the crust?
We’ve pipped these two pizza oven brands against each other
By Lauren Bradbury
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Painting fence panels with a sponge - Is this viral fence painting hack a stroke of genius or a waste of time?
It has over 7.9 million views and counting…
By Lauren Bradbury
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Cats pooping in your garden? The ‘scaredy cat’ plant could be the answer to all of your problems
Keep cats out of your garden for less than £1.50 per plant
By Lauren Bradbury
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7 things to consider when building a pergola, according to experts
Building a pergola is easy... but only if you do it right
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can you use a fire pit on decking? It all depends on the type of decking you have, according to experts
If you play with fire on certain types of decking, you may get burned
By Lauren Bradbury
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Today’s top phone and broadband deals - the biggest savings from TalkTalk, Sky, EE, and more
Wondering where to go for great phone and broadband deals this month?
By Luke Edwards
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When to repot sunflower seedlings to ensure a sunny display this blooming season
Size really does matter
By Lauren Bradbury