
Maddie Balcombe
Maddie Balcombe joined the Ideal Home team as Editorial Assistant in December 2024. Having always been a keen writer and reader, she graduated from Cardiff University with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Journalism, and a Master’s degree in Magazine Journalism, in June 2024.
Maddie’s time at university cemented her interest in homeware and interior design; deciding how to decorate her new dorm room was a highlight of each year!
After her studies, Maddie kickstarted her career by freelancing for a number of women’s lifestyle magazines – including Woman&Home and Woman’s Weekly – before making the leap to interiors and joining the Ideal Home team full-time.
Ideal Home Truths
Where’s your happy place?
My happy place is the living room in my parents house. There’s so much to look at – from the navy gallery wall filled with vibrant mismatched prints, to the large multicoloured rug on the floor. There’s always candles lit and music playing, and it’s where my cats curl up in the evening.
What’s your home addiction?
I took a trip to Copenhagen last summer, and have since been obsessed with all things Scandi style! From the philosophy of hygge to the simple aesthetics, I love how this style makes modern decor feel so inviting. Now that I'm home, the HAY book on my coffee table is how I get my fix.
What is your next home project?
My bedroom is in need of a makeover! There are two small alcoves in the room, so before I get to work, I’m currently brainstorming clever ways to use that space to its fullest potential.
Latest articles by Maddie Balcombe
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IKEA’s sleek new outdoor coffee table offers a simple solution for small space hostingThe portable design is one of the smartest space-saving features I’ve seen
By Maddie Balcombe
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You’d never guess this chic solar lamp is only £17 from IKEAIt’s the perfect way to add a soft glow to your outdoor space
By Maddie Balcombe
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This vibrant kitchen pairs two trending colours in an unusual way to create a high contrast kitchen that is sure to raise a smileIt's a cheerful mix of colour and efficient design
By Maddie Balcombe
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Ideal Home Awards 2026 Dining Room WinnersBrands and products that achieved the seal of approval from our judges
By Maddie Balcombe
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How to use colour to create a happy home'The right palette can make a space feel calmer, brighter and more uplifting'
By Maddie Balcombe
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This is where the Ideal Home editors find luxury bedding at bargain prices – and now it's even more affordable in the saleWith over 50% off on some sets, this sale is not to be missed
By Maddie Balcombe
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There’s a reason this IKEA storage box is selling fast – it’s a game changer for gardens that lack space and privacyIt's one of the smartest storage solutions I’ve seen
By Maddie Balcombe
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Fragrance is the secret ingredient in all feel-good homes – this is how to use it to lift the mood and make a space smell incredibleDon’t underestimate the importance of scent
By Maddie Balcombe
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This elegant urban garden is a sun-drenched oasisClever zoning and a bespoke outbuilding have transformed this once unused garden into a family's dream space
By Maddie Balcombe
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This £50 IKEA outdoor coffee table hides a secret storage compartment – it's a must-have for small gardensBanish garden clutter for good
By Maddie Balcombe
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This is how to do a black kitchen in style – the fearless monochrome look is both sophisticated and timelessIt's anything but dark
By Maddie Balcombe
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Badgers have destroyed my suburban garden – I asked the experts how to safely (and legally) deter the protected speciesHere’s all you need to know when it comes to living with badgers
By Maddie Balcombe
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Home Truths: Amanda Holden shares her homeware addiction and the one bad habit she just can’t quitThe Heart Radio host and Britain’s Got Talent judge gets up close and personal with her home
By Maddie Balcombe
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IKEA's clever new trinket tray has gone seriously viral on TikTokBanish bedside clutter for good
By Maddie Balcombe
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An open plan design transformed this kitchen into a bright and sociable spaceFit for modern family life
By Maddie Balcombe
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This foldable dining set from John Lewis is the space-saving gem that all small gardens need this summer – and it’s currently 20% off in the saleLevel up your hosting game in no time
By Maddie Balcombe
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Slow decorating is the anti-trend approach to styling your space that experts swear bySay goodbye to impulse buying
By Maddie Balcombe
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The 3:3 rule is the expert-approved secret to organised shelves – here’s all you need to know, and how to make it work in your homeGo from cluttered to curated in no time
By Maddie Balcombe
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TikTok convinced me to clean my oven with cling film – trust me, this low-effort hack is a game-changer for lazy cleanersNo elbow grease required!
By Maddie Balcombe
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This is the ‘unexpectedly versatile’ colour that experts say is making a comeback, and how to make it work in your home for 2026It's the perfect shade for any scheme
By Maddie Balcombe
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Is Amalficore making a comeback? I’m seeing the home decor trend everywhere this yearGoodbye rain, hello summer
By Maddie Balcombe
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Amanda Holden's new DFS sofa range is as glamorous as you'd expect – but this showstopper is her favourite pieceDid someone say pink fluffy pouffe?
By Maddie Balcombe
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Potpourri is back, and I can't stop thinking about Next's trendy take on it – for just £10, the vibrant design is too good to missThis 80s staple is cool again!
By Maddie Balcombe
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This IKEA storage solution has transformed my narrow hallway – for just £45, it’s helped me clear shoe clutter for goodIt's perfect if space is limited
By Maddie Balcombe
