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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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
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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
