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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Wildlife experts warn against using this common Halloween decoration – it will put birds and hedgehogs at riskThink twice about your decorations this spooky season
By Maddie Balcombe
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Calling all Traitors fans! This Claudia Winkleman-inspired mouse Christmas decoration has gone viral – and it’s guaranteed to sell outAdd some mischievous magic to your tree
By Maddie Balcombe
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Bright morning spots are the easy design trick that can help you beat the winter bluesHere’s how to make it work in your home
By Maddie Balcombe
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This petite Japandi kitchen is a masterclass in how to balance style and function in a tiny spaceOrganic materials and tactile textures blend to create this dreamy kitchen
By Maddie Balcombe
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My neighbour’s tree is damaging my garage, what can I do?Experts explain where you stand legally, and 3 immediate steps you need to take
By Maddie Balcombe
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This £2 buy could help keep spiders out this autumn – and you probably already have it at homeIt's easier than ever to deter eight-legged creatures
By Maddie Balcombe
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Forget simply arranging flowers – this Japanese philosophy could help you create a more intentional homeWhat you leave out of your space is just as important as what you put in it
By Maddie Balcombe
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I caught my neighbour trying to cut down my tree – here’s the expert-approved way I’m dealing with the situationWhere you stand legally, and the right steps to take
By Maddie Balcombe
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Urban Outfitters' new lamps are bringing granny chic backIt's giving retro glamour
By Maddie Balcombe
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Sorry minimalism, gem-maxxing is taking over our homes – here’s how to make the whimsical trend look chicDid someone say bedazzled decor?
By Maddie Balcombe
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By mixing wallpaper and marble, this loft bathroom has been transformed into the perfect retreatThe chinoiserie wallpaper is a showstopper
By Maddie Balcombe
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This vintage window staple is having a huge comeback – it’s the perfect way to add effortless character and colour to your homeIt's popping up in all stylish homes
By Maddie Balcombe
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Aldi's new ice bath drops this week – it taps into one of this year's biggest wellness trends for your gardenIt’s the wellness ritual we can’t get enough of this year
By Maddie Balcombe
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I work from home and didn't want my desk to always be on show – this IKEA buy transformed my set-upIt's the multi-purpose buy I never knew I needed
By Maddie Balcombe
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You'd never guess this chic sideboard from Debenhams was actually a dog crateIt’s a safe space for your pooch that won’t compromise your style
By Maddie Balcombe
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Experts warn that rats could cause significant damage to your garden appliances this summer – here’s how to keep them awayDeter the pests and avoid costly damage before it's too late
By Maddie Balcombe
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I thought I couldn’t love IKEA’s RÅSKOG trolley more, until it launched in 4 new coloursDid someone say stylish storage?
By Maddie Balcombe
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Experts say the caveman method is key to keeping your home cool during a heatwaveTrust me, it’s easier than it sounds
By Maddie Balcombe
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Why your sofa might look different after a heatwave, and what you can do to protect it during the rest of summerAll you need to know before July’s heatwave hits
By Maddie Balcombe
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Cool down corners are the heatwave hack experts swear by if you don’t have an air conditioner – here’s all you need to knowThey’ll help you beat the heat, without compromising on style
By Maddie Balcombe
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This £10 Amazon buy is my secret weapon for reducing the risk of summer mouldDid someone say electricity-free dehumidifier?
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
