Choosing a playroom colour scheme that will engage your little one just the right amount can be a tricky task – so why not take notes from a colour expert like Lick’s Tash Bradley who has both professional and personal experience with this very task? If you ask me, that’s the perfect source of inspiration for an engaging playroom colour scheme.

When thinking about who to ask for any colour-related playroom ideas, Tash Bradley was my first port of call. As a trained colour psychologist and the director of interior design at paint brand Lick, Tash is no stranger to designing homes and creating the perfect colour palettes for all kinds of rooms as she has done during more than 5000 colour consultations with her clients.

Last year, one of her clients was a little closer to home than most as she designed and created a beautiful playroom for her two-year-old son Zac, complete with great colour and paint ideas. ‘Designing Zac's playroom was one of my favourite rooms to work on. Whenever I'm designing a room, I always start with the feeling I want to create. I think about the memories I want us to make in that space and, in this case, what Zac naturally gravitates towards,’ Tash says.

The playroom colour scheme

Even with playrooms, it’s important to work with the room itself and its particular dimensions, quirks and lighting. ‘It was north-facing, so naturally it didn't get a huge amount of light, especially during the winter months. Rather than fighting that, I wanted to create a space that felt bright, warm and uplifting,’ Tash says.

On the walls, she started with a neutral base of Lick White 05, available at B&Q, which allows the colourful toys to pop against it. It also has warm yellow undertones that balance out the lack of light in the room. ‘The walls, cupboards and woodwork are all painted in White 05, which is one of my favourite warm whites. It has those lovely yellow undertones that bounce light around the room and stop it ever feeling cold,’ Tash explains.

But from there, things got more colourful – although the colour choices strike the perfect balance between calm and playful. ‘I chose Blue 15 for the ceiling because it's a soft, warm blue that instantly creates the feeling of looking up at the sky. Blue has a shorter wavelength of light, so it naturally helps a ceiling feel higher and the room feel more open.’

‘Because I wanted to bring in that playful energy, I painted the windowsill in Red 03. It's a small detail, but it creates a lovely focal point and nods back to those playful primary colours without overwhelming the space,’ Tash says.

Get the look

On top of creating this beautiful space only last year, Tash is currently in the process of designing a second playroom for her son as the family is moving into a new house later this year, leaving London for the Somerset countryside. This is what Tash has got in store for this next project.

The next playroom

‘For the new house, I'm definitely keeping that same philosophy of creating a room that feels joyful and sparks creativity, but I think this time I'll be a little braver. I love the idea of introducing more colour through painted furniture, playful joinery or even colour-blocking, rather than relying solely on the walls,’ Tash says.

Furniture and stylish toy storage make for the perfect opportunity to incorporate some fun colours into the play space aside from the walls.

Just like with children’s bedrooms, introducing a theme to your little one’s playroom is also a great way to make it all the more magical. And that’s exactly what Tash is planning.

‘One of his favourite books at the moment is Mouse on the River, and every time we read it, I'm drawn to this beautiful palette of soft blues and greens that runs throughout the illustrations. It feels so calm, nostalgic and connected to nature. As the house is in the countryside, and his playroom overlooks the garden and all the trees, it just feels like the perfect starting point,’ Tash explains.

To bring this reference to life, Tash is looking to the colour wheel and a bit of colour theory which she’s, of course, very familiar with. ‘I'll almost certainly keep a painted ceiling because I love the personality it brings, and I'll continue to layer those playful primary colours throughout the room. I'm leaning towards a really soft analogous colour palette, using shades like Blue 18, Blue 03 and a beautiful soft rich olive green. Those colours all sit next to each other on the colour wheel, so they create this wonderfully harmonious, calming backdrop that's still full of personality.’

‘Then, because every room needs a little surprise, I want to bring in an unexpected accent of a rich burnt orange through furniture or accessories. It'll add warmth, energy and that playful touch that every playroom deserves.’

Get the look

Tash concludes with how every playroom should feel, ‘The aim isn't to create a space that feels loud or overstimulating, but one that feels imaginative, energetic and full of happiness. Ultimately, a great playroom should inspire creativity while still feeling calm enough that both children and adults genuinely enjoy spending time there.’

Forget chemicals and copper tape and beer traps aplenty; did you know that birds will get rid of slugs in a garden?

Yes, we all know that slugs are one of the biggest frustrations for gardeners, capable of stripping hostas, dahlias and young vegetable seedlings in a matter of days. While there are plenty of ways to get rid of slugs, though, not everyone wants to rely on pellets or spend evenings picking them off by hand.

Instead, encouraging natural predators into your garden can provide an effective, wildlife-friendly way to reduce slug numbers. Especially as several familiar garden birds feed on slugs and snails as part of their diet anyway.

Helping to create a healthier garden ecosystem while supporting local wildlife? It sounds like the perfect solution to a very sluggy problem (particularly if you tend to grow the plants that slugs love). So, how to go about doing it like a pro?

Attracting birds that will get rid of slugs for you

The key to attracting birds that will get rid of slugs in a garden is making your outdoor space somewhere these birds want to visit regularly. From leaving leaf litter to planting the right shrubs, a few simple changes can help attract birds that will happily do some of the hard work for you.

1. Encourage slug-eating birds to visit

Not all garden birds eat slugs, but several common species are known to snack on them while foraging.

Charlotte Ambrose, one of the Wildlife Experts at the RSPB, says, ‘There are quite a few garden birds that will eat snails and slugs. Song thrushes are probably the one most well-known for eating snails, although like blackbirds they do eat both snails and slugs. Smaller garden birds such as wrens and dunnocks may also help keep snail numbers down in your garden, as both are known to eat small snails (although not a top choice).’

While it is important to note that birds alone won’t eliminate every slug, attracting species that naturally feed on them can help keep populations at more manageable levels over time.

Garden bird essentials

2. Make your garden a natural feeding ground

Rather than keeping your garden overly tidy, leave areas where birds can forage for insects and molluscs.

Charlotte explains that ‘all these species have similar foraging styles, rummaging through leaf litter and turning leaves over in search of a wide range of insects as well as molluscs.

Instead of raking up leaves and disposing of them, make leaf litter piles, and plant wildlife-friendly plants like holly, spindle and common dogwood to encourage them to visit your gardens all year round.’

As well as picking up something like a red-barked dogwood from Crocus, then, remember that leaf litter piles create valuable habitat for wildlife while giving birds somewhere to search for food. The trick is to make your garden attractive throughout the seasons.

3. Provide food, water and use a citrus fruit trap

Alongside wildlife-friendly planting, offering birds the basics will encourage them to spend more time in your garden.

Richard Green, bird feeding specialist at Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies, says, ‘Start by making sure you have the essentials, like food, water, and shelter. Planting berry-producing shrubs such as hawthorn, ivy, and cotoneaster is a simple way to encourage visits year-round, even during colder months. And adding a birdbath or shallow water source helps birds stay hydrated and cool, especially in warm weather.’

We quite like this pebble bird bath from Crocus if you fancy something different!

Try these berry producing plants

Richard also recommends a simple trick that can help birds find slugs more easily.

‘Using citrus-fruit traps is a fantastic, natural alternative for pest control in the garden. Cutting an orange or grapefruit in half and placing the halves throughout your garden can serve a dual purpose,’ he says.

‘Birds are drawn to the fruit, and slugs are attracted to the leftover rinds. Once the slugs gather, the birds will return to eat them, creating an effective and eco-friendly way to manage pests.’

FAQs

Combined with wildlife-friendly planting and a reliable source of food and water, encouraging slug-eating birds into your garden is one of the simplest ways to let nature deal with this particularly pesky problem for you (this writer swears by it, quite frankly).

Of course, it won’t replace other methods entirely (a little copper tape can go a long way). That being said, it can reduce the number of slugs reaching your prized plants. And, even better, it will do so while making your garden a richer habitat for wildlife, making it a real win-win approach!

It may be July, but for many homeware brands, it’s also the time to unveil their autumn collections for the upcoming season. No exception is high street brand Matalan, and I’m seriously impressed with the grown-up yet cosy style they’ve plumped for.

While I don’t advocate for wishing away summer, now is a good time to start browsing the AW26 collections if you want to keep ahead of the home decor trends of this year. Matalan is an underrated place to look for affordable yet on-trend homeware. The brand has given its pumpkin-esque homeware a grown-up spin, with a neutral colour palette and subtle-y playful motifs.

As someone who doesn’t usually subscribe to autumn decorating ideas (my decor doesn’t change much throughout the year), it’s not often I see seasonally themed decor I actually like. However, I can imagine the green pumpkin ornaments (£6) making a cheery yet cosy addition to my bookshelf. I also rate the Cream Pumpkin Candle Holder (£12), which is perfect for adding a subtle, autumnal look to a coffee table.

If you’ve been looking for cosy living room ideas that don’t look tacky or cheap, you’ve landed in the right place. The entire range is a grown-up version of classic pumpkin homeware, a look I’m all for. These are the picks I’d actually snap up for my home.

Alternatives

Matalan’s autumn collection has sent me on a bit of a rabbit hole in looking for elevated seasonal decor. Here are a few of my favourite finds.

If you’re excited for autumn, get in the spirit with Matalan’s affordable yet stylish autumn collection. It’s just the right amount of pumpkin spice.

I'll let you into one of my best kept secrets - a towel refresh is one of the fastest (and most budget-friendly) ways to update a bathroom scheme. And M&S' trusty towels are the most effective ways to achieve it.

It can be hard to know how to refresh a bathroom without undergoing a full renovation project, and if you're in a rented home, this is made even more challenging by uninspiring bathroom designs that you can't change.

So, often the extent of a bathroom update is left to the small things we can change. Bath mats and bathroom storage ideas can add some much-needed character to a space, but the best towels are my favourite way to inject colour and personality in one fell swoop.

M&S has some of the most stylish towels I've seen in a long while, which has inspired me to update my own this summer. With guests staying in the upcoming month, it's the perfect time to hit buy on these picks.

Interiors trends are always reflected in small ways through towel designs, so it's a great way to try out a trend without investing too much time or effort.

Frills have been seen in so many different formats in 2026. Whether on the bottom of a sofa for a kitsch living room look or on a cafe curtain to add flair to a window, frills are a small touch that add a vintage-inspired look to any interior.

M&S' selection of trend-inspired towels doesn't stop there either. This cream blanket stitch towel adds subtle interest to the edge, creating a look that is a little bit different to your normal plain towel.

Colourful, checkerboard-patterned towels have been a big trend in 2026, but I'm leaning towards more pared-back styles with small embroidered details for the next season.

I'm predicting that this spotty embroidered towel will also be a huge hit for autumn. It comes in so many colours to suit any bathroom colour scheme, and I'm personally eyeing up the white and blue colourway to match my coastal countryside aesthetic.

Not only are they bang on trend, but these towels are also great value for the quality. These picks are all pure cotton and start as low as £6 for a hand towel and go up to £30 for a bath sheet, so you don't have to break the bank to purchase a full set.

Shop M&S towels

Looking for a bigger bathroom project? Colourful shower trays are showing that 70s style is set to be back in a big way, but if you can't invest in a full colourful bathroom overhaul, there's always the option to go big with your towels or bath mat.

This summer, I’ve been absolutely charmed by one plant that’s woven itself around my mum’s garden: a delicate, creeping sedum.

I’ve always been an advocate for learning how to grow sedums, because they’re climate-resilient plants and a hit with pollinators, but I was stunned by the volume of sedum in my mum’s garden – and how it all started from one plant.

As it turns out, some sedums are self-seeding, which means they’ll expand your collection for you – and my mum has very cleverly divided parts of the plant up and scattered it in her borders, planters and even gravel for a wild, naturalistic look. Here’s why I’ll be taking a leaf (a succulent one) out of her book.

White stonecrop (Sedum album) is the drought-tolerant plant my mum began her sedum collection with. It produces masses of tiny white flowers during the summer, and the succulent leaves are beautiful in their own right – bean-shaped, green, pink and purple. The closest I’ve found on the internet are these Sedum album plants from Etsy.

I first spotted white stonecrop growing in a small pot on the gravel area of my mum’s garden, spilling over the edges as a beautiful trailing plant. Then, I noticed that the succulent foliage was continuing onto the gravel itself, sewing itself between the stones. It sort of reminded me of Cath Kidston’s patio garden, in which Erigeron grows between the cracks and gaps in the pavers. My mum said the white stonecrop has been popping up everywhere, self-seeding itself all over the gravel.

'For smaller spaces or gravel gardens, white stonecrop (Sedum album) is excellent,' says Andrew Jackson, award-winning garden writer, designer and creator of The New Build Manifesto. 'It self-seeds readily into gaps between paving and walls, creating a living carpet that’s both drought-tolerant and attractive to pollinators.'

Then, my mum pointed me in the direction of her garden border, where a fizz of the same delicate flowers was lining the area by her bug house. The sedum was growing happily there, too, from a section of the original plant that my mum had divided.

There was also a small white stonecrop plant growing in a wooden crate, which looked right at home beneath her iconic succulent planter. My mum truly is the queen of succulent-growing – even inside, her alpine arrangements are thriving – and she’s mastered the art of growing succulents outdoors, too.

White stonecrop is the variety my mum grows, but there are a few other self-seeding sedums that will spread in a similar way.

'Biting stonecrop (Sedum acre) is another tough native species that happily colonises sunny, free-draining spots, producing bright yellow flowers that are loved by bees,' suggests Andrew. You can order a Sedum acre plant from Thompson & Morgan.

'The real benefit of self-seeding sedums is that they soften hard edges and gradually knit a garden together without becoming invasive,' Andrew adds.

Other sedums can be easily divided and planted up around the garden.

'Sedum 'Autumn Joy' is a favourite because it brings colour later in the year when lots of other flowers are starting to fade,' says Jo McGarry, luxury garden design expert from Caragh Nurseries. 'While it doesn't self-seed quite as freely as some of the smaller stonecrops, it forms larger clumps that are easy to divide and spread around the garden.'

Get the look

Self-seeding sedums like white stonecrop are a fantastic way to achieve naturalistic planting without lifting a finger. Plus, they're brilliant for pollinating insects and summer colour.

Rebekah had a clear vision for her home's renovation: to transform a run of smaller, disconnected rooms into a generous kitchen, dining and living space with improved flow and doors opening directly out to the garden.

A space where cooking, entertaining and relaxing could all happen at once, without losing the 1970s character she fell for in the first place.

‘I wanted to create a space where friends and family could gather while I was making dinner,' she says. ‘A room that felt relaxed, social and full of life.'

Shortly after moving in, the couple discovered a host of unexpected issues. Unsafe electrics and plenty of botched DIY jobs meant plans to extend were put on hold while essential repairs took priority. ‘It wasn't what we expected,' she admits.

‘But having to live here for five years before starting the renovation did help us to understand what did and didn't work about the house.'

What the couple did love about the house were the original 1970s features, including the walnut staircase and the large garden. But they didn't like the cramped ground-floor layout, which felt cut off from the outdoor space. ‘We had this lovely big garden, but it just wasn't connected to the house at all,' says Rebekah.

An architect helped with planning, and the couple hired a local builder who kept costs down by doing much of the work himself. Feeling overwhelmed by the design decisions, Rebekah brought in interior designer Natalie Johnson of Bower Interior Design.

‘Natalie made every decision feel stress-free,' she says. ‘She helped me work out what I actually wanted and stopped me from feeling overwhelmed by it all.'

Natalie's design focused on how the family would be using their kitchen every day, so that the new room was both functional and practical. ‘The flow works so well in here now, and there are no clutter hot spots,' says Rebekah.

‘We love how Natalie used the structure of the new extension to create cosy corners in the open-plan layout, which gives us a clear separation between cooking and relaxing areas at different times of the day.'

The finished kitchen extension is now the social heart of the home. The oven sits in the island, freeing up worktop space and allowing Rebekah to cook while staying part of the conversation.

‘When we're hosting, friends say it's like watching a cookery programme,' she laughs. ‘Before, entertaining was stressful. Now it feels effortless.'

Get the look

I’m sure I don’t need to tell you that it’s been warm at night recently, although, thankfully, July has seen cooler overnight temperatures than we saw during the tropical nights of the June heatwave.

That means that as long as you can open your bedroom windows at night, a cooler sleep is available. And as I've learnt in my five years as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, when it comes to sleeping better, a cooler sleep tends to go hand in hand with a deeper, more restorative sleep.

However, in my experience, opening the bedroom window at night can create its own problems. And where I live, those problems are mosquito-shaped.

That’s why, a few weeks ago, I found myself awake at 2 am, scratching the bite I’d just received on my ankle whilst a mosquito’s high-pitched buzzing sounded in my ears, and searching the internet for a solution.

Could I find a simple fix? No. At least, not a ready-made solution I could buy off the shelf. In other countries, fly screen mesh in a frame seems to be very common, but I couldn't find anywhere to buy a similar product in the UK. So, much googling later, I set about making one myself.

It took me several failed attempts (and a lot of disappointing Amazon purchases) to find a solution that worked, but in the end I created a DIY mosquito screen for my bedroom windows that couldn’t be simpler to install, and it only cost me roughly £10.

Should you too wish to outsmart the biting bugs and find a way to open your bedroom windows to make the most of the cool evening breeze after sunset, this is what you’ll need.

What you'll need

All you need for this fix is two items. That said, finding the *right* two items turned out to be trickier than I anticipated. Luckily, you can learn from my mistakes and head straight to the products that worked.

First up, you'll want some mesh fabric to create the window screen, and secondly, you'll need some hook-and-loop tape, also known as Velcro, if you buy the branded version, to fix that screen onto your window frame.

How I made the DIY mosquito screen

Velcro and fly mesh sourced, I then set about creating a screen that would keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay.

Now, there is one caveat to this DIY solution. The best solution I could conjure involves fixing self-adhesive hook-and-loop tape to your window frame.

I was initially reluctant to do this because I didn’t *really* want tape stuck to my window frame, and when it came time to remove it, I knew the self-adhesive would probably be tricky to take off without leaving sticky residue.

However, you can’t make a cake without breaking some eggs, and after some very hot nights with the windows closed and some very itchy nights getting bitten when I opened said windows, I decided I could live with the tape.

Buy white hook-and-loop tape if you have white window frames, and I’ve found it really isn’t as noticeable as I feared. In fact, I'm happy to leave it on my windows all year round, ready for next year.

In the end, I used VELCRO Cut-To-Length Strong Hook & Loop Self Adhesive Sticky Tape. It’s self-adhesive and comes in various widths and lengths, as well as in both black and white. I used the 20mm width, which I found was the best width for my window frame.

I measured the frame around the window I wanted to leave open at night, and then bought enough tape to tape around all four sides of my window.

Next up, the fly screen or mesh. I tried multiple types of mesh, but by far the best was this £5.95 Fly Screen Mesh from SISI UK, which I bought on eBay. However, the brand does also seem to sell similar options on its SISI UK Amazon store.

This mesh is stiff, so it holds its shape well, and the holes are big enough to let through a breeze, yet small enough that even the smallest biting bug hasn't been able to penetrate.

I cut the mesh to size so that it covered my window opening and the frame completely, and then stuck the other half of the hook-and-loop tape along each edge of the mesh.

Because the mesh I finally chose is fairly stiff, I found the self-adhesive stuck pretty well. However, if you have more time and patience than me, you can also buy sew-on hook-and-loop tape, which you could stitch along all edges of the mesh. That would probably be stronger still.

Now, as night falls and the outdoor temperature gets cooler, I simply open my window and attach the hook-and-loop tape along the edges of the mesh fly screen to the hook-and-loop tape on my window frame.

This means that the mosquito screen is sealed all around each edge, so there’s no way anything can crawl or fly through.

Then, each morning, I simply peel the hook-and-loop tape apart, and my window is back to normal (minus the tape around the edge of the frame).

However, if you want to make your house impenetrable to flies during the daytime too, you could leave the screen in place all day.

The only downside I’ve found in the past few weeks of using this hack (other than the taped window frame) is that the mesh does restrict the breeze a little.

It’s now far cooler in my bedroom at night than it would be with the windows closed, but not as cool as when the mesh is completely removed. However, for me, that compromise is worth it to remain unbitten.

I've also found that you can counteract this problem by adding a mosquito screen to windows on both sides of your home, where possible. This creates a cross breeze that draws air through the building and keeps things cool whilst you sleep.

And, it isn't just mosquitoes that this DIY fly screen has helped with. Whilst I'm very grateful for the wildlife that makes use of my garden during the night, I do prefer moths to stay outside if possible, rather than flying around my room.

Plus, I think that both myself and the bats who live under my roof eaves are happier to greet each other from a distance. I imagine neither of us particularly wants to experience the chaos that might ensue if we found ourselves sharing the same room!

Considering what a difference this DIY hack has made to my sleep comfort, this is easily the best £10 I've spent this summer, and (once I'd sourced the right products) it really couldn't have been easier to install.

Sorry traditional air fryers, glass air fryers are taking the culinary world by storm due to their space-saving and meal prepping capabilities - and Lidl is about to launch the most affordable I’ve seen yet.

In 2026, the best air fryers have a spot in every kitchen, yet most are quite bulky. But the increase in popularity of glass air fryers over the past year shows that these game-changing appliances can work in the tiniest of kitchens.

Landing in stores on Sunday 2 August, Lidl’s Glass Air Fryer is a deadringer for the Ninja Crispi (was £149.99, now £115 at Shark Ninja), and at only £49.99, It’s one of the most affordable Ninja Crispi alternatives I’ve spotted.

Having reviewed the Ninja Crispi, Ideal Home’s Kitchen Appliances Editor Molly Cleary declared she’d only use the glass air fryer from then on. Its easy-to-clean glass containers were found to be excellent for making lunches and meal prep, while its compact size meant it was easy to stash away after use, too - no bulky appliance taking up precious worktop space here. Not to mention it produces unbelievably delicious and crispy results.

The convenience of glass air fryers has seen them soar in popularity, and now it’s Lidl’s turn to deliver an affordable version. If you have Lidl Plus, the Glass Fryer is £49.99, and it is £59.99 without the app discount.

It boasts a transparent glass cooking basket, allowing you to keep an eye on how your food is cooking without opening the drawer (one of the main benefits of glass air fryers over standard ones), and it promises to deliver healthy, crispy results with ease. Lidl also states the machine is easy to clean, which is a bonus. For squeaky clean air fryers, I do recommend the Astonish Air Fryer Cleaner(£2.50, Dunelm) as it is great for cutting through grease.

Lidl’s Silvercrest Glass Air Fryer has four preset programs: air fry, roast, re-fry, and keep warm. Its small glass container is ideal for one portion, while the supermarket says its large container is big enough to roast a whole chicken.

‘I was unsure of the concept of glass air fryers at first, but after testing the Ninja Crispi I was totally won over. I can't imagine a better air fryer design for a student house or a small kitchen in order to feed one or two people,' comments Molly. 'If you're on a tight budget, then this version from Lidl might be worth a try. The glass surface is much easier to clean than a usual air fryer tray and will be so easy to pop into a deep drawer too.'

Glass air fryers are a great choice for people who have small kitchens, students and anyone else who doesn’t want to give up worktop space for bulky appliances. They offer a great vantage point, where you can see how your food is cooking. The detachable glass dishes make meal prep incredibly easy, and the glass is far easier to clean than other air fryers.

Lidl’s glass air fryer will only be available in-store. So, in the case of stock issues or it selling out fast, I’ve rounded up a few more affordable alternatives to shop online.

You can always count on Lidl to deliver an affordable alternative to our favourite appliances. Will you try it?

There's nothing worse than having to buy a homeware item that forces you to settle on aesthetics. There are many kitchen essentials where practicality comes first, but I draw the line at having unattractive kitchenware on show on my worktops.

A bread bin is often one of those pain-point items, but this chic bread bin from Amazon is here to challenge that assumption. I've spotted this in some of the most stylish kitchens on social media and wrongly thought it would be out of budget. Luckily, it comes in at under £30.

Whether you're specifically searching for a bread bin or you need a handy kitchen storage idea for your worktop that looks good too, here's why you should give this Amazon buy a try.

I've seen this bread bin appear in some seriously stylish kitchens, so naturally I just assumed it was from a high-end brand with a price tag that is much more than I'd ever willingly spend on a bread bin.

So when I saw the same style crop up on my search for some of Amazon's very best kitchenware picks, I knew it was worth shouting about.

While many other kitchen gadgets and storage options evolve, with more interesting style choices available as time moves on, the bread bin feels like it's been left behind.

Many bread bins have a traditional farmhouse aesthetic with a wooden pull down curved front or a metal container. There's nothing wrong with either style, but it's no different to what we had in our kitchens 10 or even 20 years ago.

This Amazon bread bin, however, strikes the ultimate balance between style and practicality. The dark brown wood effect finish offers a more high-end take on the typical light wood bread bins, with subtle brushed brass handles that will complement matching cupboard hardware.

It also handily has a flat top, so it creates extra storage space without simply taking it up on your worktop. Rather than a traditional bread bin that serves one purpose, this style feels like a form of tabletop pantry unit.

The flat top is great for storing everyday cooking essentials, such as a salt pig or olive oil. If you have the height available, you could also pop a small rechargeable lamp on top to add style into the corner of the kitchen.

Shop stylish bread bins

Innovative, freestanding storage options are a handy way to personalise your kitchen and make it work for your needs. This IKEA pantry is another practical and affordable option for increasing dried goods storage for less.

Not every neighbour dispute starts with a major landscaping project - more often than not, it's the everyday garden habits that annoy neighbours. From mowing the lawn at the crack of dawn and letting hedges creep over the fence to installing outdoor lighting that shines into your neighbour's garden, small oversights can quickly become recurring irritations.

While these habits are rarely intentional, repeated noise, neglected planting and poorly positioned lighting can all create tension and build up over time. The good news is that most of these issues are easy to avoid with a little forward planning and regular maintenance.

Just as there are certain garden features that can cause disputes, the way you use and maintain your outdoor space can be just as important. To help you avoid the biggest neighbourly bugbears, we asked gardening and property experts to reveal the issues most likely to cause complaints, and what you can do to keep the peace.

1. Letting hedges and trees take over boundaries

'The biggest causes of neighbour disputes are usually plants that cross boundaries or start affecting how someone else can use their garden,' explains Liam Cleary, gardening expert at Old Railway Line Garden Centre.

Overgrown hedges are also a common issue when they begin blocking light, taking up too much space or becoming difficult to maintain. 'Trees that grow too large for their original position, drop excessive leaves or have roots affecting nearby areas can also become a source of frustration for those nearby,' adds Liam.

While it might be tempting to cut back your neighbour's hedges that extend across a boundary, there are some rules worth knowing first, as you could even be breaking the law in your own back garden. 'You have the legal right to prune branches or roots back to the boundary line; however, you should not step onto your neighbour's land without their permission while doing so, as this can be classed as trespassing,' warns Richard Barker, horticultural expert at LBS Horticulture.

The plant material cut off technically belongs to the plant's owner, so once trimmed, you should offer them back to your neighbour. 'If they do not want these, you are responsible for disposing of them and cannot throw them back over the fence,' adds Richard.

Shop hedge trimming gear (if your neighbour agrees)

2. Allowing fast-growing climbers to run wild

Climbing plant ideas can add plenty of character to a garden, but when they're not kept under control, they can quickly become a source of tension between neighbours.

'Climbing plants can cause problems when they're not kept under control, especially if they start spreading onto fences or outbuildings that don't belong to the homeowner who planted them,' says Liam.

Fast-growing climbers, like ivy or wisteria, can cause issues if left unchecked. 'They can cling to brickwork, block guttering and spread under roof tiles, causing costly structural damage to shared walls,' warns Richard.

So what can you do if a climbing plant starts crossing a boundary? 'You're allowed to prune any part of a climbing plant that crosses your boundary line,' explains Richard. 'If plants have caused significant damage, your neighbour may be liable for the repair costs.'

Prevention is often the easiest solution. 'Fast-growing plants, self-seeding varieties and bamboo are also worth keeping an eye on because they can quickly spread beyond where they were originally planted,' adds Liam. Regularly checking growth and training climbers onto the structure they're intended to cover can help prevent problems developing.

3. Letting your garden become untidy

While a garden doesn't need to be tended to daily, a messy garden is among the garden habits that annoy neighbours.

'Garden maintenance can become a point of tension when lawns, borders or planting areas are left unmanaged for long periods,' says Liam. 'Issues such as weeds spreading through seeds, plants growing through fencing, branches hanging into neighbouring gardens and garden waste accumulating along boundaries can all create avoidable problems.'

The good news is that keeping on top of the basics can prevent most issues from escalating. 'With weeds, prevention is usually easier than removal,' adds Liam. This involves keeping borders covered with mulch and removing weeds before they set seed, which can help reduce the chance of them spreading.

'A tidy garden doesn't need to be perfectly maintained, but it does need some basic upkeep to stop plants becoming someone else's problem,' Liam says.

That said, it's worth approaching the situation with understanding. Richard recommends having a conversation with your neighbour in the first instance: 'A neglected garden can be the result of someone being physically unable to cope with the upkeep required, and they may need help.'

Rather than making the conversation about the state of their garden, focusing on the impact - such as plants spreading or damage to shared boundaries - can help keep things neighbourly.

4. Hosting loud garden parties or making noise at antisocial hours

We naturally spend more time in our gardens during summer, but with neighbours also enjoying their gardens and keeping windows open, noise can travel much further than you might expect.

'Beyond the visual, it is the behavioural habits that can be harder to address but just as damaging,' says Katie Cromwell, founder and director of No. 86 Estate Agency in Swansea. 'Loud parties, regular late-night gatherings or persistent noisy DIY at weekends create a reputation for a property that buyers can pick up on.'

Whether it's mowing the lawn, using a pressure washer at the crack of dawn or hosting a late-night BBQ, being mindful of the time can go a long way towards keeping the peace. If you are planning a larger gathering, giving neighbours a quick heads-up beforehand is a simple gesture that's often appreciated.

5. Watering your garden without thinking about next-door

It might not be the first thing you think of, but where your sprinkler or hose is pointing can affect more than your own garden. Sprinklers that spray over the fence, or hoses that repeatedly soak shared boundaries, can create problems with neighbouring gardens without even realising it.

'If your neighbour's garden watering is leading to an excessive amount of runoff or overspray, this can cause problems in your own garden, such as oversaturated soil, root rot and fungal diseases,' says Richard.

If your garden is at a lower level than your neighbours, excess water can naturally pool on your property and drown plants.

Repeatedly soaking a shared fence can cause damage, too. 'If they are soaking the fence when watering, this can make the wood rot and encourage mould growth,' adds Richard. 'You should begin by talking to them about redirecting their hose or adjusting their sprinklers so it does not affect your garden or fencing.'

6. Installing outdoor lighting that shines into neighbours' homes

If you're wondering whether neighbours can complain about outside lighting, the answer is unfortunately yes. Security and feature lighting is increasingly common, but poorly positioned fixtures can quickly become a sore point.

'Harsh, poorly positioned security lighting that floods a neighbour's garden is something buyers notice and ask about, particularly in the evening,' says Katie. 'It suggests an unresolved tension that they may inherit.'

Luckily, the fix is straightforward and low-cost. 'Replace directional security lights with motion-activated alternatives that are angled inward rather than outward. It costs very little and removes a potential source of dispute,' advises Katie.

Shop garden lights that won't annoy neighbours

7. Leaving bins or garden waste where they affect neighbours

First impressions count, and bins are often the first thing a neighbour or visitor will see. If you've ever wondered whether neighbours can leave their bins outside your house, you're not alone - where bins are stored between collections can also become a common source of frustration.

Katie says this is a bigger factor than most homeowners realise. 'Bins left permanently on display at the front affect first impressions before anyone has even knocked on the door.'

Katie's advice is simple. 'Move them out of sight where possible, and look at whether a bin store can be added permanently. Even a simple wooden screen makes a significant difference to how the front of a property presents.'

The same logic applies to garden waste left along a shared boundary, which Liam flags as an avoidable source of tension if it's allowed to build up over time. Garden maintenance can become a point of tension when lawns, borders or planting areas are left unmanaged for long periods,' he says. 'The best approach is to check your garden regularly.'

FAQs

Most of the garden habits that annoy neighbours are easy to avoid with a little planning and regular upkeep. Tackling small issues early can help prevent unnecessary complaints and keep your garden enjoyable for everyone.

Even though we’re still in the middle of summer and most of us are bracing for another heatwave ahead of next week, my email inbox is already filling with autumn lookbooks. I got an early look at the upcoming collections from the likes of John Lewis, Habitat, Very and Dunelm – and there is a clear autumn 2026 colour palette all of them have in common.

As Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor, it’s part of my job to identify new home decor and colour trends. While there are usually commonalities I can spot across different collections, the lookbooks that have landed in my inbox thus far and the collections I’ve seen IRL have had a very similar look - colour-loving Scandi meets 70s with pattern aplenty - as well as a consistent colour scheme. So much so that I wouldn’t blame anyone for thinking all the images here came from the same brand and the same collection.

The 6 main colours that are sure to make their way into your (and my) home come this September are light blue, burgundy, rust, caramel, dark green and yellow. If you’re thinking that you’ve been seeing these colour trends for the past couple of seasons already, you’re not wrong – this is really the first time that home decor trends are not rapidly changing with every single season, but rather they’re being evolved and built upon. And that’s exactly what I’m predicting for autumn 2026.

What’s the autumn 2026 colour palette?

• Light blue – blue’s been one of the biggest colour trends of this year and it’s not going anywhere. But for autumn, soft, powdery blues are being favoured over other shades.
• Burgundy – deep cherry red and burgundy have been trending ever since the start of last year. This year, we’ve been seeing them paired with soft blues which is how brands are using them for autumn 2026, too. But a combination of burgundy and dark green is also super chic.

• Rust – earthy terracotta shades just make sense for the autumn season. So I’m not at all surprised to see them represented so prominently. But it’s also a colour trend that’s been favoured for a few seasons now. For a cosy, earthy colour scheme, pair it with brown and caramel.
• Caramel – brown is another major colour trend that’s not going anywhere anytime soon. But while dark chocolate brown is still a thing, I’ve been seeing lighter caramel shades pop up so much more across the new collections. And I’m here for it.

• Dark green – is there ever a time when green is not a thing?! I don’t think so. This autumn, dark, earthy moss and olive green shades are taking over, being paired with everything from caramel to rust and even yellow.
• Yellow – butter yellow is another colour trend that shows no signs of slowing down, even for autumn 2026. It's paired with soft blues, as well as different shades of brown. But aside from buttery shades, deeper ochre tones are also popping up and they look great with everything from blues to greens.

Even though most of the autumn 2026 collections are not fully launching till next month, a few pieces from the John Lewis and Dunelm autumn ranges are already dropping here and there. And if you’re into any of these shades or even the entire colour palette, you can invest in pieces available now. Here are some of my top picks to get the look now.

Get the autumn 2026 look

If this is what this autumn has in store for us, I’m genuinely excited. I will mourn the end of the summer, but cosy season has its charm, too.

Lakeland has released a brand new all-in-one pan, the Tri-Pan Only Pan Pro (£84.99), which is a dead ringer for my favourite ever pan – the Titanium Always Pan Pro (£170) by Our Place.

As Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor I've had the happy task of trialling dozens of pans over the years but none has topped Our Place's Titanium offering after a five-star review. Lakeland's version, which is a 'hybrid stainless steel pan with ceramic non-stick coating', claims to have the same versatility but with a price-tag that's exactly half of the chef-approved Always Pan.

Here's a closer look at the two to see how they measure up.

Last year Lakeland's take on the Our Place Always Pan, the 8-in-1 Only Pan, prompted a sell out on the brand's website. Naturally, we had to get our hands on it to see how it measured up to its more expensive lookalike.

Our expert reviewer and home economist Helen McCue awarded it 4.5 stars out of 5 after testing it, saying that it was a 'great choice for fuss-free cooking'. Now Lakeland has taken that bestselling formula and worked its magic on a stainless steel version, a material that's favoured by professional chefs.

It's clear that Lakeland has taken inspiration from the marketing of the Our Place Always Pan Pro, which is touted as 'virtually indestructible'. After having this pricey pan in my kitchen now for over a year, I agree with those bold claims. it still looks as good as the day it arrived after more than a few cooking mishaps and a turn through the dishwasher every day.

That's the kind of durability that Lakeland is seeking to emulate with their new do-it-all pan which is 'built with three layers of stainless steel and aluminium to offer superior strength', according to the brand. 'Outstanding scratch resistance' is another feature worth shouting about – I've learned the ability to use metal utensils with peace of mind with the Always Pan Pro is a real game changer.

The deep shape of the Lakeland pan is a versatile design feature which is supposed to unlock those aforementioned 'ten ways to cook'. With it, Lakeland says you can bake, grill, roast, pan-fry, boil, sauté, steam, stir-fry, simmer and braise. As its oven-safe up to 200°C, it should be great for finishing dishes off in high heat.

Lakeland's pan also comes with two accessories to make it more multi-faceted: a stainless steel steamer basket and a silicone turner. The included lid is also very similar to Our Place's, with a domed lid that helps to trap in moisture for steaming.

Our review of this multi-functional pan from Lakeland is currently underway so that we can let you know how it performs but the Our Place Pro has certainly set a very high benchmark. Can you see a place for this type of multi-functional pan in your home?

With summer in full swing, most of us will be spending more time than ever in the garden. And it turns out that we’re not the only ones enjoying the great outdoors. In fact, home and pest experts are warning that rat activity has been peaking in heatwave conditions, posing a serious threat to our gardens.

By now, it’s clear that this has been a summer like no other. Since late May, we’ve experienced week-long heatwaves and seen temperatures soar to record-breaking heights. Most of us have likely been worrying about how to keep our homes cool during these hot spells, but experts say it’s time to turn our attention outside in a bid to stop rats in the garden.

‘Rats are active throughout the year, but activity can increase during the summer months because the warmer weather creates ideal conditions for feeding and breeding,’ warns Kara Gammell, Home Insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket.

‘With this summer being extra hot and dry, our gardens are more appealing to rats. They are more likely to venture closer to homes and gardens as they search for water sources or food,’ she adds. We all know rats are a nuisance, but they can cause serious destruction if not dealt with, especially when it comes to outdoor wiring and garden appliances during the summer months.

‘Rat’s teeth never stop growing, so to keep them at a comfortable length and maintain their ability to eat properly, they need to gnaw on hard materials – which, unfortunately, includes wires,’ explains Adam Wilkins, managing director of Lightning Legends. ‘During the summer months, we tend to spend more time outdoors using garden lighting or electric lawn appliances, which often have exposed cables. These can be easily accessible to rats and may be used as something to gnaw on.’

‘Outdoor wiring is particularly vulnerable because it’s commonly hidden beneath decking, inside sheds, or behind outdoor kitchens and garden buildings. And these are places where rats feel safe from predators,’ adds Laurence Barnard, Country Business Manager at BASF Pest Control Solutions.

‘Once rodents discover these sheltered areas, cables can quickly become damaged through repeated gnawing,’ he adds. So, even if you’ve never seen a rat in your garden, it’s wise to check your appliances and garden wiring for hidden signs.

If your outdoor wiring has been damaged, you might be wondering how serious this can be. And, you’re likely asking yourself how to keep rats away from your garden appliances. I asked the experts all you need to know.

The consequences of damaged wires

From outdoor lighting ideas to lawn care equipment, you’ll likely have more wired appliances in your garden that you initially realise. So it’s important to ensure they stay in good condition, especially as this summer has the perfect conditions for a surge in rat activity – ‘we can expect to see a higher than average volume of rats in the summer, particularly during prolonged periods of hot, dry weather,’ explains Laurence.

Many pests just cause aesthetic damage to our gardens, but chewed wires can carry serious consequences. ‘Once the protective insulation has been stripped away, exposed wiring can create a serious fire risk, particularly if it comes into contact with combustible materials such as timber structures, fencing or dry garden debris,’ says Laurence.’

‘Damaged wiring can also cause outdoor lighting, water features, electric gates and other garden appliances to fail unexpectedly, often leading to expensive repairs,’ he adds. And, from a home insurance point of view, the costs will just keep rising.

‘Standard home insurance typically won’t cover pest infestations because insurers view it as a maintenance issue rather than a sudden, unforeseen event like a fire or storm,’ explains Kara. ‘That means the cost of removing rats – or repairing the damage to your garden appliances – will likely come straight out of your own pocket.’

‘Some insurers do offer home emergency cover as an optional extra, and this can sometimes include pest removal. But don't assume you're fully protected,’ she adds. ‘This type of cover generally won't pay out for any damage rats cause to your property, and outbuildings such as sheds and garages are also often excluded.’

How to stop rats damaging your garden appliances

If rats get to your garden wires, you’ll likely be left with damaged equipment and a big bill to pay, so it’s important to keep your garden undesirable for them. ‘Rats may be small, but the damage that they can cause can be huge,’ says Kara. ‘Taking preventative steps to keep rodents out is far cheaper – and far less stressful – than dealing with an infestation once they've moved in.’

In sunny spells, rats are drawn to our homes in search of food and water. If they can’t find what they’re looking for, they’ll likely leave your garden in peace. ‘Keep rubbish secure and out of reach of any rats and avoid leaving food waste outdoors or exposed in any way. Stay on top of maintenance, too. Dripping taps and leaking pipes will provide a water source for rats,’ says Kara.

Rats are also known to seek shelter in gardens, so be sure to keep this in mind when tending to your garden. ‘Keeping lawns and vegetation well maintained, removing piles of debris and blocking access beneath decking or into sheds will reduce the number of places rats can shelter and nest,’ says Laurence.

As well as keeping rats away from your garden, it’s also vital to make sure your electrical wires are protected. ‘There are several ways to help prevent rats from chewing through wires during the summer,’ says Andrew. ‘Protective cable coverings or anti-rodent tape is a good place to start, they can make cables more difficult to gnaw and help reduce damage.’ This option from Amazon should do the trick.

‘If possible, clipping wires higher up and off the ground can also help make them less accessible to rats. This is easier to do with equipment installed above ground level, such as outdoor lighting and security cameras,’ Andrew explains.

Or, opt for stylish wireless garden appliances – like battery-powered lamps – to keep your outdoor space feeling neat and cosy.

Content creator Lucy Kalice is one of Ideal Home's Open House contributors, sharing her thoughts on cleaning, home decor and making the most of small spaces. See the rest of her articles here.

Last week was a big day in our household, it was the first time I’d picked up a rake and did some gardening…ever! After two years of staring out the back doors to dull grey fences, dried grass and enough weeds to qualify as a nature reserve, we’ve caved. We’ve finally started our garden makeover!

I’d always said the garden was my husband’s domain, he was loving taking care of the grass each year and two years ago he even built a bar at the back. But after going on quite a few trips this year, the garden had been neglected and was in a really bad state. Even the garden furniture doesn’t have any cushions so I’ve been sitting on the base of it with just a towel as a pillow…not the most comfortable or glamorous.

So last weekend we decided to start our garden transformation. We spent all weekend de-weeding, watering and seeding the grass and tidying it all up. And we have big big plans about what we want to do with it – I’m envisioning a pinterest-perfect garden with new painted fences, new furniture and some colourful plants and trees.

We have a long way to go but I’m confident we can sort it way before the end of summer (that’s if the weather keeps playing ball!).

Now we don’t have a big garden so my initial thought was how long would the de-weeding and tidying take? The answer: hours. The first lesson I learnt is that gardening is not a quick job, it’s a labour of love.

But what I quickly realised was how therapeutic and enjoyable it was. We all know it’s good to spend time outdoors and in nature, but this was a real mood-booster and gave me a huge sense of accomplishment when it was all done.

One of the nicest things was that it was time spent away from my phone and without distraction. I will admit that I am guilty of doom-scrolling and checking my phone even when there’s no notification there (I think we all are).

So to spend hours doing something productive and away from my phone was refreshing. And as someone who doesn’t love bugs, hates spiders and doesn’t really enjoy getting dirty, I really surprised myself with how much I enjoyed it.

However, that’s not to say it was easy. First of all, who was going to tell me that gardening is a workout??? If I’d have known I would’ve been out there sooner! It’s physically demanding – raking the lawn and pulling up the weeds was making me break a sweat as if i’d just spent an hour in the gym.

It’s also a great way to top up your tan and get some vitamin D, especially with all this glorious weather we’ve been having in the UK!

But there was one downside, the next day I woke up and my back was in agony. Hours spent hunched over chopping plants and pulling weeds will do that to you apparently and now I understand why people have those kneeling pads *reminder to self I must buy one*.

The garden is looking a lot tidier now and I’m sure I will learn a lot more throughout our garden transformation but one things for sure, gardening is good for the mind and body and is a hobby for all!

Now that I've been working from home for more than six years, a period which has included some of the hottest days on record, I like to think I've nailed my process for keeping my home cool.

While I have fitted air conditioning in my living room, and a portable air conditioner and a brilliant fan I can use where I need to, I'm also a big believer in more passive (and energy efficient) cooling methods, like solar control, cross ventilation and night flushing.

However, there's one method I've sworn by over the years — keeping all windows closed during the hottest part of the day (as well as blinds and curtains) — that has felt less effective in my home in the most recent and prolonged heatwave.

While this method has undoubtedly been effective when we've had the odd hot days, preventing the worst of the heat from entering my home, the length and intensity of the most recent hot spell has been one of the most extreme I've experienced.

When I'd kept the windows and blinds shut, especially upstairs, the build up of heat felt far more noticeable to me than ever before. If I needed to go upstairs for anything, I would get to about the ninth step before my head would enter a stifling blanket of heat. Something about entering that environment head first made it seem all the more acute.

Then at night, when the temperature cooled slightly outside, I would open all of the windows to get some cross ventilation going, but the heat didn't seem to escape. I'd even point fans out of the open windows to help give the night flushing a helping hand, but it still remained far too hot to sleep upstairs. Fortunately, I have a comfortable air bed (this Silentnight king sized air bed, £57.99 at Amazon that is also the top pick in our best air beds guide) that means I can decamp to the living room for a cooler night's sleep.

After the first couple of days of the heatwave, and the accumulation of heat, I decided to leave the upstairs windows open (but curtains mostly closed, with a small gap in the centre) to see how much of a difference it made. And interestingly, it definitely made the stifling blanket of heat considerably less oppressive as I headed up the stairs.

Admittedly, it was still very warm (and in most cases, when temperatures exceed 30°C, there's only some much you can do before you need to resort to active cooling measures like fans and air conditioning to create a cooler environment), but it didn't feel any warmer than before, when I'd had the windows closed.

And granted, if my home was oriented in a different way, and I had rooms that were naturally shaded and cool despite the heat outside, then keeping the windows closed would be essential to maintain that coolness for as long as possible. However, my home's orientation and position in a little sun trap mean that it seemingly feels the full effects of the sun from the moment it rises until it sets.

By leaving the upstairs windows open, and this may have been due to a bit more of a breeze outside, it felt like the night flushing was more effective too (although I did end up sleeping with two fans — one blowing on me, and one blowing out of the window).

While having the upstairs windows open may have been a bit of a placebo in terms of its effectiveness, managing solar gain by keeping my blackout curtains closed whenever the sun is out is still an absolute no-brainer for me. Upstairs curtains will be closed for most of the day, and I'm tactical about when I close my kitchen curtains so that I can still enjoy the daylight, but just keep the worst of the heat gain at bay.

Shop my summer gamechangers

Thames Water has just announced a hosepipe ban, following a string of other regions falling under the restrictions. It’s a sad day for my hose reel, and a host of other gardeners who I’ve heard asking one question in particular: Can you use an outside tap during a hosepipe ban?

Well, the good news is that hosepipe ban rules don’t prohibit the use of outside taps completely – it’s more about how you use them, and you’ll need to be aware of the dos and don’ts if you want to avoid stumbling into fines.

So, under what circumstances can you use an outside tap during a hosepipe ban? I consulted the experts to find out.

What you'll need

So, can you use an outside tap during a hosepipe ban?

Absolutely – but, as you’d expect, you can’t use a hose with one. You’ll need to find other ways to water your garden during a hosepipe ban instead – and I’d recommend making sure you’ve got a big watering can in stock, like this 10-litre Ward Watering Can from Argos.

‘Homeowners are allowed to use an outdoor tap during a hosepipe ban, so long as they’re using it to fill a hand-held container, like a watering can or bucket,’ says Craig Pennington, managing director at Universal Tankers. ‘In fact, this can be a great way to keep on top of watering your garden during a ban.’

That means sprinklers, pressure washers and hosepipes are out, and manual watering is in.

‘As the aim of a hosepipe ban is to prevent excessive water use, the restriction applies specifically to continuous water usage,’ explains Craig. ‘Therefore, connecting your outside tap to a hosepipe, sprinkler or pressure washer is strictly prohibited.’

If you’re wondering how to look after your lawn during a hosepipe ban, the same rules apply.

‘If a hosepipe ban is in place, you can use a tap to fill up a watering can, so it is still possible to water your lawn – and it uses significantly less water than a sprinkler or hosepipe,’ says Chris McIlroy, lawn expert at The Grass People.

‘Ensure you still water in the morning, focusing on giving it a deep soak a couple of times a week, instead of little and often, as this will make the most of your watering efforts.’

So, a hosepipe ban cracks down on exactly what you’d expect: hosepipes. That means you can use an outside tap during a hosepipe ban, as long as you use a watering can or bucket to collect the water.

Many of us have accepted that mosquitoes are just an annoying, biting side effect of summer, but what if I told you that this doesn’t have to be the case? Did you know there are actually certain features you can add to your garden to make it mosquito repellent?

During this time of year, I’m always looking for ways to get rid of mosquitoes. But recently I’ve been considering the preventive measures we can use to keep these blood-thirsty pests at bay.

Using scents mosquitoes hate is one effective way to deter mosquitoes, but garden experts are taking it one step further. They’ve revealed five features to turn your outside space into a mosquito repellent garden.

1. Plant mosquito-repelling plants

If you want to lean into scent deterrents, ensuring you have strongly scented plants such as lavender (£7.99, Thompson & Morgan), lemon balm (£2.99, Thompson & Morgan) and rosemary (£7.99, Crocus) is a must. Mosquitoes have highly sensitive scent receptors, and certain strong smells can overwhelm and confuse them, leading them to avoid that area.

‘Combining different plants that naturally discourage mosquitoes while also attracting their predators is a simple and effective way to make your garden less inviting to these unwanted visitors,’ explains Amber Tunney, Plant Buyer at Cherry Lane Garden Centres.

‘Mosquitoes tend to avoid strongly scented plants, particularly when their leaves are brushed or crushed. Varieties such as lavender, lemon balm, basil, rosemary and mint can all help create a fragrant barrier while also adding colour, texture and useful herbs to the garden.

‘A great way to make the most of these plants is to group them in pots or borders around patios, decking and outdoor dining areas, where their scent is most likely to be released as people move around.’

2. Use a fan

You should also consider using one of the best fans when hosting outdoors. Not only will this help you stay cool on hot summer evenings, but the strong breeze makes it harder for mosquitoes to fly (they’re small, weak fliers) and can interrupt their ability to follow scent.

‘A fan positioned at table height directed across the seating area is one of the most underrated mosquito deterrents available. Mosquitoes are weak fliers and cannot navigate in airflow above one mile per hour. A small desk fan or oscillating garden fan creates a permanent barrier around where you are sitting that no insect repellent can match for consistency. Position it low so it disrupts the air at the height mosquitoes fly rather than above head level where it has no effect,’ says Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner, EcoCare Pest Management.

3. Embrace wildlife gardens

An excellent way to deter and get rid of mosquitoes is by having a wildlife-friendly garden. Wildlife gardens house predators such as bats, birds and frogs, which eat mosquitoes.

‘Many garden-friendly animals are natural mosquito predators, including bats, frogs, dragonflies and house martins. By creating a wildlife-friendly garden with native flowering plants, bird nesting boxes, bat boxes or a pond with moving water, you can encourage these helpful species to visit and naturally keep mosquito numbers down,’ says Amber.

Mosh agrees, emphasising the benefits of attracting bats to your garden.

‘A single bat can consume up to 3,000 insects in a single night, mosquitoes included. Fixing a bat box to a north or east-facing wall or tree at least four metres high costs under £20 and attracts common pipistrelle bats that will actively reduce the insect population in your garden each evening. It takes a season for bats to discover and adopt a box, but it is one of the few genuinely long-term natural solutions available,’ he says.

4. Consider your garden lighting

Interestingly, your garden lighting ideas can impact the insects you attract to your outdoor space, as mosquitoes are attracted to cool-toned lights.

‘The lights you choose for your garden can either attract or deter insects. Mosquitoes are drawn to cool-toned lights, which they see more easily, especially during the evening hours,’ says Melissa Quinney, Gardening Expert at Cabin Master.

‘For a less inviting atmosphere, opt for warm-toned, yellow lights (with a colour temperature between 2,200K and 2,700K). These are much less visible to insects and will help keep your outdoor space less buggy.’

5. Remove standing water

One of the most important things you can do is remove standing water from your garden. If you want to keep mosquitoes away from your bird bath, adding a solar fountain (like this £9.99 Amazon fountain) is a great way to keep water moving.

‘One of the most important things you can do is eliminate places where mosquitoes can breed. They only need very small amounts of standing water, so it's worth regularly checking items such as buckets, watering cans, children's toys, plant saucers and bird baths,’ says Amber

‘If you have features like bird baths, it's a good idea to refresh the water every two to three days. This helps prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs while still providing a safe source of water for visiting wildlife.’

We can’t promise that these ideas will get rid of all mosquitoes from your garden forever, but by making your garden a less desirable environment for mosquitoes, you will see a reduction in numbers.

There's nothing more beautiful than a country cottage garden – all of those gorgeous varieties that offer an untamed look that our pollinators adore too.

The best bit is that some varieties self-seed. 'Self-seeding cottage garden flowers are brilliant because they do half the work for you and help fill borders for free,' says Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres. 'Some will settle in happily and come back year after year, while others will gently move around the garden and surprise you in new spots.'

If you're on a budget and want to embrace these wonderful flowers, then read on to find out which self-seeding flower varieties should be top of your list.

1. Foxgloves

There's not much more quintessentially cottage garden than the foxglove, with its stunning spires of flowers that tower over other varieties; it looks wonderful against stone cottage walls.

'Whilst most foxgloves are biennials, producing roots and foliage in their first year and flowers in their second year, once these plants start to self-seed you will naturally create the illusion of blooms every year from then on,' says Lucie Bradley, gardening and greenhouse expert at Easy Garden Irrigation.

According to Lucie, a single foxglove can produce up to two million minuscule, dust-like seeds once their distinctive tubular, bell-shaped blooms have faded. 'When they finish flowering from July onwards, their seed pods form, dry and crack open in late August or early September to scatter their seeds, which are light enough for the wind to naturally disperse them around your garden borders,' shares Lucie.

There are quite a few different colours to choose from; we love the colour of this Suttons Apricot foxglove, currently £5.99 for a one-litre pot from Gardening Express.

For a more classic look, consider the Dalmatian Mixed variety, which comes in pots or as plug plants, from £7.99, Thompson & Morgan.

2. Forget-me-knots

'For shadier spots, I'd look at forget-me-nots,' suggests Liam Cleary, gardening expert at the Old Railway Line Garden Centre. 'They're brilliant at filling awkward gaps beneath shrubs or around trees, and because they self-seed so freely, you end up with carpets of blue each spring with very little effort.'

Richard Barker, horticultural expert at LBS Horticulture, agrees, 'Most varieties of forget-me-not are biennial, so they will self-seed. Although seedlings can be pulled up and replanted, you can collect seeds from the plant. When the seed pods turn brown, gently snip them off the stems and place them into a paper bag. Shake the bag to separate the seeds from the chaff, and then store them until ready for planting.'

You can buy forget-me-knots, and we love Amazon's Forget Me Knot Myosotis alpine mix; you get six large plug plants for £14.99.

3. Nigella

Nigella, sometimes called 'love-in-a-mist ', produces seeds that can be collected easily from the seed pods.

Richard explains, 'When the pods turn brown and papery, this indicates that the seeds are ripe and ready to collect. Alternatively, you can leave the seed pods on the plant, and they will eventually dry out and split open to scatter seeds across your garden. However, it is best to collect seeds yourself because the plant can develop a long taproot, which makes it harder to move them once established.'

The sky blue variety of Nigella is perhaps the most well-known. Crocus sell Miss Jekyll seeds, three packets for £6; they're an easy-to-grow variety and great for beginner gardeners. We also love the pastel pink version, Miss Jekyll Rose, 1000 seeds for £1.69, Amazon; they will flower from July to approximately September and love full sun.

4. Lupins

Lupins are a hardy perennial that, once established, is low maintenance. They come in a great selection of colours too.

'Their pea-like flowers are a rich source of pollen, which makes them great pollinator magnets with their tall spires,' says Lucie. 'With long tap roots making then drought tolerant and prolific self-seeders, they will naturally populate your garden, forming gorgeous, free-flowing spaces of colour in May and June, and repeat flowering in August if you have the chance to cut back the spires once faded.'

Lucie recommends the West Country varieties for their robustness; Persian Slipper is one that has blue flowers, £12.99 for a 9cm pot, Crocus, and the bi-coloured Tequila Flame, £27.99 for three established plants, Amazon.

5. Calendula

Calendula is one of those useful plants that has healing properties – it's anti-inflammatory and soothes and heals skin; you can often find it in creams to heal minor wounds.

As a plant, it loves full sun and can do well in poor soil, so it's rather forgiving and easy to grow.

'Calendula is one I'd recommend to almost anyone as a self-seeder,' says Liam. 'It flowers for months, the pollinators love it, and it's incredibly generous when it comes to self-seeding. You will likely find fresh seedlings popping up the following spring without you having to put in any effort whatsoever.'

It's mostly known for its yellowy orange flower heads that are rather daisy-like; you can buy 100 seeds for £2.79 of the English marigold variety from Crocus. For a mix of orange and yellow colours, have a look at Amazon's Calypso mixed mini plug plants; you get 20 for £15.99.

Cottage garden shopping essentials

These self-seeding plants will give you so much joy in your cottage garden over the coming years. Invest in them now, and they'll bring you colour and free flowers to boot.

Thanks to the constant barrage of dirty plates, washing-up sponges and soap bottles, it often feels impossible to maintain a tidy, clean kitchen sink area. And as I can’t look at this area without my stress levels rising significantly, I often ignore it and pretend the clutter doesn’t exist… which just makes things even worse.

Admittedly, I’ve taken steps to be like the people with tidy under-the-sink cupboards over the past few months, and this has made a huge difference to my once-messy kitchen. But while I’ve tackled the space underneath my sink, the area above and around it still needs work.

So, in an effort to keep my sink area as tidy and as clean as possible, I’ve asked my most organised friends, family and colleagues what they use to restore order and keep everything from soap scum to limescale at bay. This is what they said.

1. Clever storage

Smart storage is key to a consistently tidy home, and the good news is that kitchen sink storage comes in so many different shapes and forms. For example, a sink organiser like this Joseph Joseph Stainless-Steel Sink Organiser (£29.99 at Amazon) has space for your washing-up liquid, scrubbing brush, and your sponges.

Keeping these smaller items together by the sink is ideal for keeping this (admittedly very ugly) clutter from spreading out across your entire kitchen. However, if space is really limited, you can also utilise the sink itself by opting for something like this NiHome Extendable Over Sink Kitchen Organiser (£11.99 at Amazon), which sits on top of the sink for extra storage.

Then, you have storage in the under-the-sink cupboard, which is your best friend if you want to remove as many items from the sink area itself. By rehoming this visible clutter, you’ll make the space look (and feel) bigger. Not to mention that it’ll be so much easier to clean and tidy.

2. An expandable sink drainer

If you don’t have a dishwasher, your sink area probably takes a beating while washing up - especially as small draining boards just aren’t big enough to deal with the number of plates, bowls, and mugs we use daily. That’s why people with tidy sink areas make the most of expandable sink drainers.

This is something everyone needs to maintain tidy kitchen worktops, as these expandable dish drainers can work with your washing-up needs rather than against them. And if you only have a couple of glasses and pieces of cutlery to wash up, you can keep it small. If you have lots to wash up, you can make it bigger.

This will stop your soggy, wet kitchenware from migrating across the rest of your worktops, which can make things look messy and cause water pooling. If you opt for one like this Argos Home Expandable Dish Rack (£28 at Argos), it also has a drip tray and spout to ensure all excess water makes its way back into the sink.

3. A sink cover

I’ve been on the hunt for handy clutter-busters for a small galley kitchen, and sink covers have come up time and time again. These products do exactly what they say on the tin: they cover your sink, hiding what’s underneath.

This can help you if you’re in a pinch and trying to tidy before guests arrive, but don’t want to waste water on washing up a few bits. You can use something like this Tomorotec Roll Up Sink Cover (£12.99 at Amazon) to cover any to-be-washed items, and it even doubles up as a drying rack when you need it, too.

In fact, the beauty of sink covers is that they can be dual-purpose - and you could even just buy a chopping board to hide sink clutter while also creating more worktop space for more practical kitchen tasks. Just be warned that you’ll still need to do the washing-up eventually.

4. Pretty bottle alternatives

You should never underestimate the power of decanting when you’re trying to keep a space tidy and clean. That’s because the packaging of the many products you use in and around a kitchen sink area - including washing-up liquid and hand soap - is probably making your space look messy.

Visually, they’re often very different sizes, colours, and shapes, which can instantly add clutter to your space. But decanting them into pretty, matching bottles can instantly rein in this clutter and add visual intrigue to your sink area. Especially if you opt for sleek, stylish bottles like this MaisoNovo Hand and Dish Soap Dispenser Kitchen Set (£30 at Amazon).

If you choose refillable cleaning products like this Miniml Washing Up Liquid Refill 5L (£15.99 at Miniml), you can also buy in bulk without having to buy countless bottles which will go straight in the bin. So, it’s an eco-friendly win, too.

5. A regular cleaning routine

It’s all well and good keeping a kitchen sink area tidy, but you also need to keep it clean if you want it to be something you’re proud of. And it may sound silly, but putting your sink ‘to bed’ as part of your closing shift cleaning routine is always a good idea.

This involves washing up any straggling cutlery or mugs, wiping the sink and draining board down to remove any standing water, and scooping out any food stuck in the drain. I’d also suggest using these EcoZone Drain Cleaning Sticks (£9.99 at Amazon) once a month to clean a kitchen sink drain.

If you need to remove any limescale or banish soap scum, it’s also well worth cleaning with white vinegar to allow this naturally acidic cleaner to break down the grime. Just be warned that you can’t use white vinegar on natural stone sinks as this could cause damage.

So, I guess having a tidy (and clean) kitchen sink area isn't that hard after all...

Kitchen trends have been inspiring us all year long as we update our cooking spaces or undergo full renovations, but figuring out which 2026 kitchen trends offer longevity can be tricky. In a space as large and costly as a kitchen, you want to ensure that your design choices aren't passing fads, which is why I'm here to assess which trends have staying power.

The halfway point of the year is a great time to reflect on the trends that are showing dominance in real-life kitchen ideas, versus the trend predictions that have quietly petered out.

These three kitchen trends have consistently appeared in the most beautifully designed homes that I've seen in the last 7 months, proving that they're worth investing in for 2027.

1. Earthy colour palettes

The most stylish cooking spaces I've seen this year all have one thing in common; an earthy kitchen colour scheme. Whether it's green, yellow, terracotta or even off-white, the muted undertones of these shades create an inviting atmosphere that will remain a trend well into 2027.

In 2026, we saw many emerging trends focused on creating a lived-in, welcoming atmosphere in a kitchen, and this down-to-earth nature will sustain itself into next year.

'When you're investing in a new kitchen, it's worth choosing colours you'll love for years to come rather than following a trend that might quickly date. Soft, earthy shades like mushroom, greige, olive green and warm neutrals are all great options because they're easy to live with and work with different worktops, flooring and finishes,' explains Ntola Obazee, brand director, Kutchenhaus.

2. Pattern play

Pattern play feels like a trend that is inspired by the eclectic, farmhouse interiors that have risen in popularity in 2026. And while it's a specific look that won't be for everyone, I predict it will have longevity.

Delft tiles are a classic style that have recently come back into fashion, thanks to the ability to add character into a kitchen design. Traditionally, motifs took on a countryside aesthetic with thatched houses, windmills and farmers, but there are now increasingly modern iterations that can be personalised with any motifs that suit your home and lifestyle.

3. Curated pantries

Pantries are getting bigger and better as every year goes by, so it's safe to say that this is a 2026 trend that is going to evolve even more in 2027.

While a traditional double-door pantry is still considered a wishlist item, pantries that operate as separate rooms are what the most stylish homeowners are choosing. Conservatory-esque spaces with glass doors introduce an interesting visual element, breaking up banks of cabinetry and allowing the inside of the pantry to become a design feature in its own right.

'A well-designed kitchen is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your home, and features such as a walk-in pantry can significantly increase both functionality and appeal,' explains Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company. 'Buyers are increasingly drawn to kitchens that feel considered and well planned, and practical additions like this signal quality, longevity and intelligent design.'

Kitchen trends slowly evolve each year, but there are always a few which drop off the radar completely. These three trends all take inspiration from traditional styles, showing that classic always comes back around.

Plug-in solar panels could be available to buy in the UK soon after the 27 August 2026, when updated legislation comes into effect.

Back in March, the Government announced that plug-in solar panels would be available 'within months', offering households across the UK a chance to offset their energy bills by generating their own electricity at home. Panels like this are already widely used across parts of Europe, and are both renter friendly and considerably more affordable than rooftop solar installations.

But in order for plug-in solar panels to legally sold in the UK, certain regulations around plugs and sockets needed to be updated to allow power generating tech, like plug-in solar panels, to be self-installed and used safely. The government consulted with industry professionals on proposed changes, saying that it wanted to move 'at pace' to bring plug-in solar panels to UK homes.

Those legislative amendments have now been laid before Parliament and are due to come into force on Thursday 27 August 2026, and we expect retailers, like Lidl, Amazon, Currys and B&Q, to make their plug-in solar panels offerings available to buy on or soon after that date.

'We are working closely with government and suppliers to understand and help shape the guidance, ensuring any products we offer are safe, compliant and straightforward to install,' says Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q. 'We look forward to making plug-in solar available to our customers as soon as possible.'

There is also hope that these legislative changes are just the beginning, and will open the door for even more affordable and easy to install technology to become available to those in the UK.

'The Government's announcement is a really important step towards making solar energy available to far more people across the UK,' says Aaron James Darvill, Strategic Sales Director at Anker SOLIX. 'Until now, generating your own electricity has largely been limited to homeowners with the right roof and the budget for a full solar installation. Plug-in solar changes that. It gives renters, people living in flats and households without suitable roofs a simpler and more affordable way to get started.'

'While this is a major milestone, battery storage will be the next important step. Plug-in solar generates the most electricity during the day, but most households use the most energy in the evening. Without battery storage, consumers can't store surplus energy to use when they need it most, limiting the savings and flexibility the technology can deliver.

'Across Europe, we’ve seen that people rarely buy their final solar energy system on day one. They start small, see the benefits for themselves and then add more panels or battery storage as their needs grow. We expect the UK to follow a similar path, with battery storage playing an increasingly important role in helping households maximise the value of the energy they generate and reduce their reliance on the grid. We're also encouraged that a regulatory framework for plug-in battery storage is expected to follow, helping ensure these systems can be adopted safely and with confidence.'

If you are keen to embrace plug-in solar panels, make sure you understand how they differ to rooftop solar panels so you make the right choice for your home.

Potted plants are all fun and games until the drained compost starts marking your patio. Mine’s been afflicted by my planter in recent weeks – and now, I’m trying to figure out the best way to remove compost stains from a patio.

Containers are game-changers for small or paved outdoor spaces, but if the pots and planters are sitting directly on a patio, they’ll leak or even puddle when you water them. That’s the case for my vegetable planter – the drainage holes are in the legs, so they carve lovely rivers of compost-y water along my patio whenever I water it.

After I finally buy a tray for the planter, I need to tackle those stains and figure out the best way to clean the paving slabs – so I asked the experts for their take on the best ways to remove compost stains from a patio.

What you'll need

1. Remove loose debris

Before you start scrubbing away at your compost-stained pavers, it’s worth giving it a chance to dry. It makes the first step in removing compost stains from a patio a lot easier.

‘Allow any wet compost to dry before lifting it away with a broom, soft brush or plastic scraper,’ advises Morgan Smith, director at porcelain garden tiles company Pegseo Stone. ‘ Removing the loose material first stops it turning into sludge and spreading across the surrounding slabs.’

A soft broom like this Gardeners Mate one from Amazon ought to do the trick, but a plastic scraper like Morgan suggested will help loosen up tougher debris. Or, use the metal scraper on this Charles Bentley 2 in 1 Outdoor Broom from Argos.

2. Use a mild detergent

Once the looser material has been removed, you’ll likely be left with a matt compost stain. That’s where a mild detergent, even fairy liquid, can be a good first port of call.

‘Mix warm water with a mild detergent, apply it to the affected area and scrub with a stiff-bristled brush, then rinse with clean water once the discolouration begins to lift,’ says Morgan.

This Faithfull Stiff Bassine Natural Material Hand Brush from B&Q is ideal (but remember to wear gloves to protect your hands from the detergent).

3. Use a patio cleaner

If that doesn’t do the job, or you just want to start with a cleaner that you know will act fast on stubborn stains, it’s worth looking into the best patio cleaners on the market (our current favourite is Algon Organic Path, Patio & Deck Cleaner, which you can order from Amazon).

‘For a mark that remains after washing, try a specialist enzyme cleaner designed to break down organic matter,’ says Morgan. ‘Follow the product directions, including the recommended amount and contact time.’

You could even pair a patio cleaner with a quality pressure washer to target tougher stains, like the WORX Hydroshot Cordless Pressure Washer from Argos (the best budget machine we've tried!).

4. Preventing future stains

Prevention is, of course, better than cure, and there are ways to keep stains minimal going forward.

'Clear spilt compost promptly and avoid leaving damp bags, pots or garden containers directly on the paving,' says Morgan. 'Regular sweeping will also stop organic debris from sitting on the surface long enough to leave a mark.'

Morgan also told me that acting early is key, once you spot the first signs of staining.

‘Compost can leave dark brown marks on patio slabs because decaying leaves and other organic material release tannins as they break down,' Morgan explains. 'These natural compounds can soak into porous paving, so treating the stain early can make it easier to remove and reduce the need for stronger cleaning products.’

Removing compost stains from a patio isn't as hard as it sounds, especially if you target them early.

Interior designer Natalie Jahangiry is one of Ideal Home's new Open House contributors, sharing her thoughts on decorating a home to suit a busy family life while sticking to your aesthetic values, too. See the rest of her articles here.

What inspires you? In a digital era where we're almost overwhelmed with ideas online, I often find the best inspiration in everyday life. So when I first came across Margate House, a beautiful boutique stay on the Kent coast, I knew I had to visit.

And if you read my previous article, you'll know I did exactly that. I left feeling hugely inspired. As I wrote at the time: 'In my eyes, design is something deeply personal, and no matter how beautiful the inspiration, it's difficult to see yourself reflected through someone else's vision. That was until now.'

After visiting Margate House, I came home bursting with ideas for our bedroom… however, my aim is never to copy the look exactly. I'm a firm believer that copying leaves little room for personality.

Instead, I wanted to take small nods to the design, colour palette and styling techniques and reinterpret them in a way that reflected Tom and I as a couple. So out came the paint brushes, and into decorating mode I dove.

Space planning

When we design rooms for our Design and Refine clients, we almost always start with space planning, so that's exactly where I began here. First things first (and this may be a little controversial), I moved the bed from the centre of the chimney breast so it's now sitting beneath the window… eeek, I know!

I can already hear the "you'll catch a head chill in winter" comments, but the new layout made the room feel so much more spacious and functional. I also reminded myself of something important… it's my house, and I get to break the rules if I want to. Besides, American interior design shows seem to feature a bed beneath a window a lot, so it can't be all bad!

Sometimes good space planning is about challenging those traditional room layout rules and finding what works best for the space you actually have. And after all, if we don’t like it we can move it back, but so far so good.

Colour palette, panelling and paint techniques

COAT's collaboration with Margate House meant I could bring a little piece of the hotel home with me. As I always tell clients, colour looks completely different depending on the natural light in a room, so I tested samples in various areas of our north-facing bedroom before settling on Love Lane, a dusky pink with a real depth and warmth to it.

Now onto how to use that colour in our room. Margate House itself uses several clever paint techniques throughout the property, including colour capping, painting the woodwork darker and colour drenching.

Colour drenching has always been one of my favourite decorating tricks (it also makes it a lot easier to do when you are painting the room yourself!), and after seeing the living spaces in Margate House wrapped in Love Lane from head to toe it convinced me I wanted that same cocooning feel in our bedroom. So that’s what I went for. Yes… ceilings as well, back breaking work, but worth it.

When it came to panelling, the hotel features more traditional heritage style box panelling, but I opted for a slightly more modern slatted panelling style instead. While I love classic panelling, slats feel more in keeping with our home's overall look and feel.

Natural textures, handmade furniture and mixed woods

One of the things that struck me most at Margate House was the layering of texture and tone. Warm woods sit alongside brass, wool, linen and marble, creating spaces that feel like a home with pieces that have been collected over time, rather than a curated hotel space.

Every room is full of handmade details, unique furniture and thoughtful contrasts, so I wanted to bring that same sense of character into our bedroom. To help achieve that, I turned to Swoon, one of my favourite furniture brands.

I've been a fan of Swoon for as long as I can remember having my own space to decorate. In fact, I even had some of their pieces during my full-blown 'Millennial Grey' phase, and I'm pleased to say they've more than stood the test of time. What I've always loved about the brand is its approach to craftsmanship.

Rather than mass producing furniture, Swoon works closely with family run factories to create pieces in small batches, with some designs made in runs of as few as four. That focus on quality over quantity, detail and considered design felt perfectly aligned with the ethos of Margate House, making it an easy choice when selecting furniture for our bedroom concept.

First up was a bobbin mirror… of course! I chose the Walton Mirror, an elongated arched floor mirror that echoes other arches we have throughout the house and complements the tone of our existing bed. To introduce contrast in the woods, I added a walnut chest of drawers, with the Newham drawers providing the perfect balance against the lighter wood tones.

Every bedroom deserves a chair (and not just one to throw clothes onto), so I added the Braga Chair, featuring beautiful handwoven Danish cord as another nod to the handcrafted details throughout the hotel itself. I finished the scheme with the Marbella Table Lamp, which subtly references the marble accents I loved at Margate House.

I also found a bobbin style mirror for my dressing table on Vinted and painted it red to match the wardrobes, proving you don't always need to buy new to create a bespoke look.

Adding personality through art

Artwork plays a huge role throughout the boutique hotel, with quirky pieces adding personality to every room. Rather than directly copying the style, I looked to Margate itself for inspiration. It's such a creative, colourful place that finding artwork I loved wasn't difficult.

One shop in particular stood out: Margo in Margate, an Irish artist renowned for her relentless creativity and vibrant artworks, creating a series of original pieces based on vintage charm and vivid colors inspired by her youth culture.

I chose a piece that tied beautifully into the room's palette, and it's now proudly taking centre stage in the middle of the chimney breast wall.

Layering pattern underfoot

A vintage rug in the hotel's private dining space was the first flooring piece that caught my eye. Coming from a half-Iranian household, rugs have always played an important role in our home and heritage, so I wanted something that captured that timeless Persian carpet feel while still being practical enough for everyday life.

I found exactly that with Ruggable's Adeline Antique Red Rug, which combines a beautiful patterned design, with a washable, kid (and cat) friendly finish.

At the same time, we updated the main carpet throughout our hallway and continued it into our bedroom. We chose Tapi's Firefly Herringbone Carpet in Beige Chevron, which works brilliantly for our busy household with two children and two cats. Would I love a luxurious pure wool carpet? Absolutely, but for me, durability matters so much.

Modern polypropylene carpets have come a long way and offer the softness and appearance of wool, while being far easier to clean and maintain.. a must for family life and all the spillages that has to offer.

Layering for a boutique hotel feel

The luxurious curtains throughout Margate House were another detail I couldn't stop thinking about. I've become a big fan of layered window treatments and wanted to bring that same hotel inspired feel into our bedroom. I chose pink velvet curtains as the main feature, and they complement the wall colour beautifully.

To help with the practical challenge of having the bed beneath the window, I layered these with a sheer cotton voile from H&M behind. Paired with our shutters, the overall effect feels soft, elegant and wonderfully luxurious, while still being incredibly practical.

Giving built-ins a bespoke feel

One of the things we loved when we moved into our home was the wall of built-in IKEA wardrobes in our bedroom. And you may have spotted from a previous article I wrote, I love an IKEA upcycle.

Originally blue, I'd previously painted them the same colour as the walls, but this time I wanted to give them a more considered makeover. Following a recommendation from Laura at @houseprojectuk, I added beaded moulding trim to the middle section of the doors, before painting them in COAT's Wilderness Hill in an eggshell finish for durability.

To finish the look, I added the new range of Scroll handles in Dark Brushed Brass from Hendel & Hendel, which instantly elevated the overall look. I absolutely love the finished design and it’s a great way to make IKEA feel custom!

The pieces that tell our story

While we were in Margate I picked up several vintage finds, including a beautiful hand-stitched throw and a few prints that helped bring the room together.

Those collected pieces are what make a space feel personal. Margate House is full of unique little trinkets and characterful details, so I followed the same approach at home by gathering meaningful items from around our house.

Books, travel finds, family memorabilia and handmade artwork from the girls all found a place somewhere in the room. They're the pieces that tell our story, and for me, that's what makes a bedroom feel truly special. Oh and don’t forget plants (we love a plant).

Making it your own

Of course, I could have bought the same artwork, made a wavy headboard, copied styling and recreated the boutique hotel look. But that's never really the point. The beauty of inspiration is taking elements you love and adapting them to suit your space, lifestyle and personality.

For me, Margate House provided the perfect starting point, but the finished room still feels unmistakably ours and is in keeping with the rest of our house. It doesn’t feel like a Pinterest post, it feels like a lived in and loved space to relax and enjoy.

So take inspiration wherever you find it, but don't forget to make it your own. That's what transforms a beautiful room into a home.

The perfect tableware set is as functional as it is pretty. And it's these two categories in which Our Place's simply delectable range of plates, bowls and dinnerware essentials excel. And right now, they're the subject of a mega-sale from the retailer with picks available from £26.99 (via Our Place).

These sets not only nest together in the most pleasing and stackable way, but they're simply the best looking on the market, in my opinion. As Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor I often have a host of weird and wonderful items on test in my home but the most complimented of all is my dinnerware set from Our Place.

Here's why it's such a crowdpleaser at a dinner party and why I'm praying this isn't the end of the brand's excellent tableware offering.

Both generations of Our Place's tableware are currently on sale and as I've tried both, I can confidently say the quality is equal across the ranges.

The first pieces I owned have now mostly been discontinued, apart from the range's Side Bowls in Spice (which are now £30, down from £40). I've had them in my kitchen since 2022, which shows you just how long they last. All 12 of them have survived without a single chip.

The next tableware set I tried from Our Place was the brand's release of the colourway Sage in 2024.

This is where the brand starting to take stacking to the next level, which you can see in all of the sets that are currently on sale. All of the dinner plates in this collection can neatly stack on top of the dinner bowls, as well as on top of the brand's serveware salad bowls.

This was also where Our Place expanded into tableware of all sizes. Its mini range provides the perfect receptacles for sauce dipping, little dessert servings or for olives or various tapas at home.

If you're in the market to completely switch out your tableware, you can't do better than Our Place's offering. It's safe to say I'm absolutely obsessed with it (and have spent my own money investing in it). Can you see the appeal of these stackable sets?

Even though there are hundreds and thousands of paint shades on the market for us to choose from, there are those few that are such crowd pleasers that they make their way into most homes. And I’ve been noticing one particular shade being used consistently across some of the most stylish homes – and that’s the Little Greene Masquerade paint colour.

Soft, plaster-style pinks have been one of the biggest paint and colour trends of this year, taking on the role of a slightly more interesting and earthy neutral. And while most people are familiar with Setting Plaster, Farrow & Ball’s most popular neutral shade and one of its bestselling colours, not everyone has heard of Little Greene’s Masquerade. And yet, it’s becoming just as popular and iconic.

‘With its delicate, powder-like hue, Masquerade has become a much-loved Little Greene shade because it has a rare ability to feel both timeless and contemporary,’ says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene, of this incredibly versatile paint colour. ‘Its soft, natural undertones create a sense of warmth and comfort without becoming overly sweet.’

Even our Ideal Home editors couldn’t resist the charm of Masquerade. Our Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight painted her living room pink using this very shade, taking inspiration from Zoe Ball’s kitchen and living room painted in Masquerade. And she couldn’t be happier with the result.

‘I was hunting around for the perfect plaster pink that felt warm but not too girly. A lot of the plaster pinks I sampled felt too washed out in my south-facing living room. However, I decided to give Masquerade a try when I stumbled upon a picture of Zoe Ball's newly renovated living room.’

‘It instantly warmed up the living room, which now feels like a hug when you sit in it. I'd call it a bold neutral – it's a statement on its own, but it works with so many other colours and makes them really pop. It made the colours of my green sofa and yellow rug look so much richer. It's become one of the most complimented rooms in my house, everyone asks what the paint colour is,’ Rebecca says.

What’s so special about Little Greene’s Masquerade

So why is everybody going crazy over this light pink paint colour? For starters, it’s a very versatile colour as already mentioned so it’s not only appealing to many different styles and aesthetics, but it’s also one of the best pink paints for pretty much any room – whether it’s north or south-facing or whether you’re painting your bedroom or are after a stylish pink living room idea like our Digital Editor, Rebecca.

‘It feels just as at home creating a calm and restful bedroom as it does adding elegance and atmosphere to more decorative spaces. This versatility reflects a wider shift we are seeing towards warmer, more soothing mid tones and neutrals. Today’s neutrals extend far beyond traditional off-whites and beiges; people are embracing colours with depth and personality - softer greens, rich browns and delicate muted pinks - shades that create a sense of calm while adding character to interiors,’ Ruth at Little Greene explains.

But in addition to that, Masquerade is part of a colour palette of three different colours - Masquerade, Masquerade Mid and Masquerade Light - each just a shade away from the other. ‘Masquerade Light and Masquerade - Mid are created using the same pigments in different strengths, allowing you to build a harmonious scheme with subtle variation and movement,’ Ruth says.

Rebecca adds, ‘I tried Masquerade and Masquerade - Mid, a slightly lighter variation. We decided to be brave and go for the bolder true colour. I think those mid shades are the best part about masquerade – if I was to redo the white parts of my living room I'd use one of the mid shades.’

This is beautifully demonstrated in the bedroom of this Enfield family home which Ideal Home’s toured. As pictured above, the bedroom’s walls are painted in Little Greene’s Masquerade, while the low ceiling is covered in Masquerade Light to visually lift it up.

How to use Little Greene’s Masquerade in your home

Since Masquerade is such a versatile shade that works in pretty much any space, the world is truly your oyster when decorating with it. But if you’re wondering what other shades pair well with it - other than the softer shades of the colour - then Ruth from Little Greene has some tips.

Create drama

For maximum impact, you can pair Masquerade with a bolder colour like deep, dark red or burgundy. That’s exactly what Ideal Home’s Editor-in-Chief, Heather Young opted for in her home office (pictured above). She paired Masquerade - Mid on the walls with a bookcase feature covered in Little Greene’s Arras shade.

‘For a bolder approach, Masquerade works beautifully alongside deeper, more dramatic tones. Shades such as Tuscan Red or Bronze Red create striking contrast and bring depth and richness to a space,’ Ruth says.

Go for a tonal scheme

Little Greene has been a pioneer of the double drenching paint technique, which is an evolved take on the colour drenching trend. And Masquerade lends itself perfectly to a double drenched colour scheme.

‘Using varying strengths of the same colour through a double drenching approach creates a cohesive yet engaging interior. Pair the delicate, powder-like hue of Masquerade on walls with the softer rosy tones of Blush on the ceiling to create a layered and enveloping feel,’ Ruth explains.

Ruth concludes, ‘Masquerade works particularly well where you want to create a sense of comfort and tranquillity.’

Patio water features have been a huge trend in small and large gardens this summer. Whether it's a DIY micro pond or a statement planter water fountain, these garden features have been taking over my Instagram feed.

However, as someone who doesn't have the budget for a £100+ water feature and loves the idea of a budget DIY alternative but lacks the execution skills, I've been hunting high and low to find an expensive-looking ready-made version under £100. Finally, this week I stumbled across a gem when scrolling through QVC: the Sara by Sara Davies Water Feature & Planter.

My curiosity was already piqued when I saw that the crafting queen and Dragon's Den star had launched an outdoor collection at QVC, but I was not prepared for how hard I'd fall for the £80 water feature and planter. I'm snapping the terracotta version up for my garden as soon as payday arrives.

The water feature comes in terracotta and blue, and is made up of two bowls stacked together, with a geometric design printed around the edges. The bottom bowl is the planter, which can be filled with trailing ivy, geraniums or even easy-to-care-for succulents for a more classic Mediterranean garden look.

The top bowl is the one filled with water, with a fountain mechanism running through it. When turned on, the fountain LED lights produce a gentle glow and the water bubbles gently through the top bowl.

It is a small water feature, it measures 38cm in diameter and 22cm tall, which makes it perfect for complementing small garden ideas, styled alongside a cluster of other containers. Alternatively, I love the idea of styling it on an outdoor coffee table or a side table to make it a bigger focal point on a patio. For a striking look, pair it with the matching Sara by Sara Davies Indoor Outdoor Geometric Pattern Side Table, £55 at QVC.

I have hunted around for similar water feature ideas, and as I said earlier, most versions on the high street that look as good as this one come in over £100. While you can make your own DIY planter fountain for under £80, it will still easily cost you £20 for just one similar-sized terracotta plant pot.

The biggest downside to the water feature is that it is mains-operated rather than solar-powered, with a 2m cable. That is actually a plus for my little north-facing garden, where I struggle to get enough sunlight to power my solar-powered garden lights.

However, if you don't have an outdoor mains supply or want to position it in the far corner of the garden, you are best off looking at one of these other water features I've found.

I'm fully sold on the QVC planter water feature, but are you opting for a solar powered version instead?

I love hydrangeas, so I have planted quite a few varieties in our garden over the past few years. Usually, at this time of the year, my garden is blooming with puffball flowers of different shades, but this year's been a little different.

I've noticed my mophead hydrangea in my front border is struggling. Its once pristine white flowers have started developing brown patches, with some petals looking dry and crispy around the edges. I thought it might have been because it had simply finished flowering, but with so many of its blooms changing colour at once, I was suspicious there was something else going on.

After speaking to a few gardening experts, it turns out there are several reasons why my hydrangeas are turning brown, and thanks to this summer's prolonged hot weather, they say more hydrangeas are turning brown than ever before. So, I don't think I'm alone! Here's their advice on why it's happening and what to do about it.

1. Heat and strong sunshine

If your hydrangea has been flowering beautifully before suddenly developing brown, papery petals during a spell of hot weather, heat stress is probably to blame.

'Whilst we are experiencing heatwave conditions, hydrangeas are likely to be turning brown due to them being scorched by the intense, direct sunlight,' explains Lucie Bradley, gardening expert at Easy Garden Irrigation. She says hydrangea flowers are particularly delicate, especially mophead and lacecap varieties, with tissue-paper-thin petals that dry out quickly when exposed to prolonged sunshine.

It's not just the flowers that suffer either. Lucie says leaves can wilt, curl and develop crispy brown edges when they're exposed to too much direct sun or drying winds.

That certainly sounds like what has happened to mine. While the shrub itself still looks healthy, the blooms that catch the strongest afternoon sun are the ones browning first.

Jo McGarry, luxury garden design expert at Caragh Nurseries, agrees that placement makes a huge difference. 'Hydrangeas tend to do best somewhere with morning sun and a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day. Too much intense afternoon sun can scorch the flowers and leaves, which can cause those brown patches.'

2. Hydrangeas are thirstier than you might think

The recent dry weather has also made caring for hydrangeas in a heatwave a priority, and more specifically, watering is far more important than usual.

Lucie explains that hydrangeas have relatively shallow roots, making them particularly vulnerable when the soil dries out. During prolonged hot spells, they lose moisture through their leaves faster than they can replace it, causing the plant to go into survival mode. While many hydrangeas recover overnight after wilting, repeated drought stress eventually leaves flowers and foliage brown and crispy.

Richard Barker, horticultural expert at LBS Horticulture, says a lack of water is one of the biggest reasons hydrangea flowers deteriorate in summer. 'Hydrangeas are moisture-loving plants, and most varieties will need deep, frequent watering through summer to stop them from deteriorating. A lack of water can quickly turn flowers brown, as the plant needs consistent moisture to maintain its flowers.'

He adds that brown leaf tips often accompany browned flowers and recommends aiming for around an inch of water each week during the dry periods. While damaged blooms won't recover, a watering routine can help protect any flowers that are still healthy.

The best thing you can do is to give them a deep watering, especially during dry periods, rather than sprinkling the surface. Adding a layer of mulch (we love RocketGro's Magic Mulch, £14.99 at Amazon) around the base of the plant can help keep moisture in the soil for longer.'

Hydrangea care essentials

3. Other causes worth checking

While heat and drought are by far the most likely explanation this year, experts say there are a few other possibilities.

Lucie warns that overfeeding can cause fertiliser burn, particularly if you've applied a feed that's high in nitrogen. This often results in brown, crispy leaf edges alongside lush green growth but fewer flowers.

She also says fungal diseases such as leaf spot (which I think my plant has), botrytis blight and anthracnose can leave brown blotches on leaves and flowers. However, because these diseases thrive in warm, damp and humid conditions, they're much less likely during dry weather. Plants that are already stressed by heat can still become vulnerable, though, particularly if they're watered from overhead and the foliage remains wet.

Richard also recommends checking carefully for pests if watering and sunlight don't seem to be the issue.

'Hydrangeas can often be targeted by aphids and spider mites, which can cause damage to the flowers, leaves and stems,' he says. Spider mites can be difficult to spot, so look for fine webbing and a dusty residue beneath leaves. Neem oil or insecticidal soap (this handy spray version is easy to use, £14.99 at Amazon) can help prevent infestations from spreading.

What I'm doing to help my hydrangea recover

Lucie recommends checking the soil moisture regularly before watering and directing water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves. She also suggests applying a 5 - 8 cm layer of organic mulch, such as compost, leaf mould or Strulch (from £19.99 at Thompson & Morgan), to keep the soil cooler and reduce moisture loss.

Because my shrub sits in a particularly sunny spot during the afternoon, I'll also be trying to give it some temporary shade whenever another heatwave arrives. Lucie says even positioning a patio parasol nearby or suspending an old sheet or shade netting above the plant between 10 am and 4 pm can help prevent further scorch. You could even pick up these cute little plant umbrellas, £11.54 at Amazon.

She also recommends removing the brown flowers completely using clean bypass secateurs (we really rate these Japanese Kimura secateurs, £24.99 at Amazon), cutting just above the first healthy pair of buds or leaves. Likewise, leaves that are more than halfway brown can be removed, but any with plenty of green should be left in place to continue producing energy for the plant.

If your hydrangea is growing in a container, simply moving it into a shadier position can make a noticeable difference. For shrubs planted in borders, though, Lucie advises waiting until autumn before relocating them, as moving a stressed hydrangea during summer can lead to transplant shock.

As disappointing as it is to see my once-white flowers turning brown, I feel reassured to know that it's probably just a response to this summer's hot weather. With plenty of deep watering, my favourite mulch and a little sun protection, I'm hoping my shrub will stay healthy and be ready to put on another cloud-like display next year.

In my humble opinion, mosquitoes are easily one of the worst things about summer. If they’ve been plaguing your patio this summer, and like me, you’ve ended up with a few nasty bites, here are five scents they hate and will keep them at bay, according to pest experts.

If you want to get rid of mosquitoes and stop them from coming back, a scent deterrent can be an excellent, chemical-free method that won’t harm your family, pets or plants.

Mosquitoes have a highly sensitive sense of ‘smell’ which they use to find hosts, breeding sites and nectar. But they find some scents overwhelming and confusing, which in turn deters them from the area, leaving you mosquito-free!

1. Citronella

Of course citronella is first on the list. Citronella candles (like Argos Home’s Scalloped Terracotta-Effect Citronella Candle, £15) are famed for their abilities to keep flies and mosquitoes at bay, as their strong scent prevents mosquitoes from finding their hosts.

‘Citronella is another popular natural mosquito repellent. It contains compounds such as citronellal, geraniol and citronellol, which help to mask the scents mosquitoes use to locate people,’ says Daniel Steward, managing director at Shield Pest Control.

‘Citronella can be applied directly to the skin in the form of sprays or lotions to provide short-term protection. It is also commonly available as candles and essential oil diffusers, which release the scent into the surrounding air to help reduce mosquito activity around patios, gardens and outdoor seating areas. While citronella can be effective, it works best in calm conditions, as wind quickly disperses the scent.’

2. Clove

Clove is also a scent that flies hate, and is great for deterring mosquitoes - as well as making your home or patio smell great in the process.

‘Clove oil [available on Amazon] contains eugenol, a compound used in professional pest products in diluted form, and is one of the most potent natural mosquito repellents available. Studies have shown it provides effective repellence for up to three hours when applied topically in a carrier oil. As a garden scent, adding a few drops to an outdoor oil burner near your seating area significantly reduces mosquito activity. The scent is strong so a little goes a long way,’ explains Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner, EcoCare Pest Management.

3. Lemon eucalyptus

The experts swear by lemon eucalyptus (£4.99, Amazon) as a powerful scent deterrent against mosquitoes. Its strong odour interferes with a mosquito’s sense of smell and makes it harder for them to detect us, humans.

‘Lemon eucalyptus' is one of the most effective natural mosquito deterrents, providing around four to six hours of protection, depending on the concentration. It contains an active ingredient called PMD, which interferes with mosquitoes' odour receptors, making it more difficult for them to detect human scent,’ says Daniel.

‘The most effective way to use lemon eucalyptus is by applying a commercial repellent containing PMD to exposed skin. Some products can also be applied to clothing, provided the label states this is safe. It is an excellent option for activities such as camping, gardening and spending evenings outdoors, when mosquitoes are often most active.’

4. Lavender

Lavender (£7.99, Crocus) is a superhero plant that will not only make your patio smell gorgeous, but deters a range of pests too. Wasps and flies also dislike the smell of lavender, whereas helpful pollinators such as bees love it - it’s a win-win choice for a garden.

You can even plant lavender in July, if you give it a little extra help settling into your garden.

‘Lavender contains linalool and linalool oxide, both of which are natural insect repellents. Mosquitoes find the scent deeply unpleasant and will avoid areas where it is concentrated. Planted lavender near a patio provides ongoing passive deterrence throughout summer, and crushed lavender flowers rubbed on pulse points provide short-term personal repellent effect. It is not as potent as citronella, but as part of a layered approach it adds meaningful protection,’ says Mosh.

4. Peppermint

Last but not least is peppermint (£9.99, Amazon). While you and I may enjoy its fresh peppery scent, mosquitoes can’t stand it and will automatically avoid an area with a strong peppermint scent.

‘Peppermint contains the strong-smelling compounds menthol and menthone, which can interfere with mosquitoes' ability to locate people,’ says Daniel.

‘Peppermint can be used in homemade sprays when properly diluted, or you can purchase commercial peppermint-based repellents and essential oil diffusers. It can also be used as a fabric spray on outdoor cushions or camping equipment, helping to keep mosquitoes at bay during time spent outside. As with other essential oils, peppermint provides relatively short-lived protection and should be reapplied regularly if used on the skin.’

If you’re sick and tired of painful mosquito bites this summer, try one of these scents to keep them at bay.

Pets make a house feel like a home, and many of us wouldn't be able to face a kitchen without a little four-legged friend running around looking for scraps. But while we understand the importance of having a pet, we haven't always designed our homes with them in mind.

When going through a kitchen renovation, we think carefully about how the design meets the needs of every member of the family, so why aren't we considering our beloved pets, too?

While pet rooms are on the rise, dedicating an entire room to our furry friends isn't always possible, so I've asked kitchen pros how we can include smaller pet-friendly design features in our cooking spaces, utility rooms and boot rooms. Here's what they had to say.

1. Find a permanent place for their bed

'The modern kitchen is being reimagined to accommodate four-legged companions with subtle sophistication,' explains Tom Howley, creative design director of the eponymous kitchen company.

Integrated pet nooks are one of the simplest ways you can incorporate your pet into your kitchen design, and it's a great way to make use of awkward gaps in a layout. By removing cabinetry, you can create a ledge for a pet bed so that it's kept out of the way from the floor area, and it creates a dedicated cosy spot for your pet to curl up and sleep.

2. Consider plumbing

When you care for a pet, there are lots of small daily tasks that come with it. A well-designed home is all about making everyday life run smoothly, which is why it's worth considering how to design a pet space that functions well.

Interior designer, Fenella Jane, shows in an Instagram reel how she has included a pull-out brass pot tap in her boot room, just above the area where her dog's bowl sits. It's a small design feature that makes a huge difference, cutting out the everyday friction of running to and from the kitchen sink.

3. Work in a pet shower

Positioning a pet zone near your garden or back door is the most practical solution for ensuring that the rest of your kitchen stays free from muddy paws.

A pet shower makes this even more achievable - you can keep your pet contained within a dedicated zone to wash them before letting them through to the rest of the house. Whether you opt for a larger sink to bathe your pup in or a walk-in shower, which is great for larger dogs, opt for tiled surfaces for a splash-zone-ready space that you won't need to be precious about.

4. Don't forget storage

There's a lot of random paraphernalia that comes with being a pet owner, whether it's food, treats, medication, bowls or leashes. So just as you would design a pantry with clever storage in mind, organising a pet zone with handy drawers will make the space more functional.

'Well-designed pet spaces create a calmer, more organised environment for everyone in the household. From a practical perspective, they help contain the inevitable paraphernalia that comes with pet ownership, whether that's bedding, leads, toys or feeding stations,' explains interior designer, Laura Stephens.

'When these spaces are thoughtfully designed, they remove the tension between functionality and aesthetics, allowing owners to enjoy a home that works beautifully for every member of the household,' she adds.

5. Choose durable materials

'The common thread is that these pet spaces are becoming far more integrated into the overall design scheme,' says Laura Stephens. This is why when you're designing a pet area, you want it to be cohesive with the rest of your home, especially your kitchen.

Practical surfaces, like tiled surfaces, wipe-clean stone and laminate are essential in a pet-friendly space. Porous marble surfaces will only cause more stress, so put functionality first. When it comes to creating design cohesion, focus on colour palettes and cabinetry styles to tie the two areas together.

'Elevated pet-dining areas clad in the same stone or timber as the kitchen worktops bring a sense of cohesion, whilst personalised touches – like cabinetry engraved with a pet’s name – add charm,' recommends Tom Howley.

Shop pet room accessories

Creating a pet zone isn't just about designing an aesthetic place for your pooch, it's about creating a home that works for every single member of your family - big or small. Think about how your daily life operates with your pet before you start designing, so you can figure out what your area needs.

If you’re after generous seating and enough space for lounging when watching TV then you can’t go wrong with a corner sofa which will provide you with both, and more. But as with any kind of sofa, not all corner styles are created equal – that’s why I found the best corner sofas for you to choose from.

As Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor, it’s part of my job to sit-test as many different sofas available on the market as possible so that you don’t have to. And based on all the sofas I’ve tried, including many corner sofa styles, I narrow it down to the best sofas to recommend to you to make your shopping experience easier.

From the top-rated corner sofa from our best sofas buying guide to the best and most unique curved corner sofa, these are the 12 designs I’d recommend to anyone looking to add a corner sofa to their living space.

Reasons to buy a corner sofa

There are many benefits to getting a corner sofa for your living room. These are just the top ones.

1. Generous seating without cluttering

‘Corner sofas are one of the best ways to maximise seating without filling a room with multiple pieces of furniture,’ says John O’Leary, Swyft design director. ‘They naturally encourage conversation and create a more relaxed, social layout, making them ideal for modern living.’

Since corner sofas are bigger than most other sofa styles, they offer more seating space. But given the clever L shape, they take up less actual and visual space than if you were to go for two separate sofas instead.

2. Clever room dividing

If you’re looking for some clever open-plan living room ideas then investing in a corner sofa is one of the best places to start as it will perfectly zone the living space.

‘Corner sofas are particularly well suited to open-plan living spaces, where they can help define where the living area begins without the need for walls or partitions,’ says Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology. ‘By creating a natural boundary, they help make larger, open spaces feel more structured and inviting.’

3. Taking advantage of underutilised space

Corner sofas are also great because they utilise the space that often goes underutilised – the corner. And since a corner sofa slots into corners so well, it also makes for a great small living room sofa idea.

‘People often assume corner sofas are only suited to large living rooms, but they can work just as well in more compact spaces. Positioned correctly, they can actually make a room feel more efficient by using corners that might otherwise be underutilised,’ John at Swyft says.

How to choose a corner sofa

Aside from the general things to consider when choosing any type of sofa that you want to last - as a sofa should last for years to come - with corner sofas, one of the biggest things to consider is the scale.

As already mentioned, corner sofas are bigger than most but there are such things as ‘small corner sofas’, too. So just make sure you choose a style that fits your living space and doesn’t overwhelm it.

‘The best style of corner sofa depends on the layout of the room, the flow of the space and the position of key focal points such as a TV, fireplace or windows. In smaller rooms, a classic L-shaped design tucked into a corner can maximise floor space, while larger living areas may benefit from a sweeping curved sofa that creates a striking centrepiece,’ Julia at Sofology advises.

She adds, ‘In smaller living rooms, choosing a corner sofa with a lower back can help create a sense of openness, making the room feel larger while still providing plenty of space to stretch out.’

John at Swyft concludes, ‘The key is choosing a design with considered proportions so it enhances the room rather than dominates it. A well-designed corner sofa should make a space feel more inviting, not more crowded.’

Home decorator and content creator Leah Hodson is one of Ideal Home's new Open House contributors, sharing her thoughts on overhauling a home with clever DIY and decorating tricks. See the rest of her articles here.

I secretly love a bathroom renovation, one of the few rooms where I get to sit back and let the contractors do their work! Bathrooms are an everyday essential that need to be both beautiful and functional – all the while being cosy at the same time too!

Having done bathroom renovations twice (in my previous house and our current one), here are a couple tips on how I’m designing and sourcing my en-suite.

Tiles

Tiles can be costly, but spending wisely and checking second hand market places can help keep the prices down. I previously bought 10m2 of mosaic travertine tiles for only £30. This time around, I didn’t have much luck on the second hand shopping front, but I’ve found cheap clearance tiles on Johnson Tiles outlet store which I’ll be using in the shower.

They can also be a fun way to add texture and colour to your bathroom. I’m adding that splash of bold colour by using pink marble tiles called ‘Capri Sunset’ from Mandarin Stone for the rest of the bathroom floor.

My secret to a considered bathroom design is grey grout, or coloured grout. White grout makes tiles look dated and they stain so easily. I love using grey grout as it hides limescale stains very well!

Bathroom fittings

Taps and shower fixtures are one area where I’ve tried to save money in the past, and it’s a decision I’ve come to regret. They’re frequently used in the bathroom, so investing in a better quality fitting pays off in the long run when it comes to upkeep and looking as good as it does, years after installation.

Even though our en-suite ceiling height is only 2 metres, having an overhead shower was a non-negotiable for me. Thankfully, Roper Rhodes have a ceiling mounted shower head that is perfect for my en-suite! Their other bathroom fittings are also beautifully designed and high quality that’s made to last!

For the first time, I’m opting for a concealed shower system. I’ve always avoided them because of an unfounded fear of leaks hidden behind the wall, choosing exposed shower systems instead.

But after years of cleaning tirelessly, and constantly battling limescale in all those hard-to-reach spots, I’ve finally been won over. A concealed system not only looks more streamlined, but should also make keeping the bathroom clean that little bit easier.

Lighting

When my electrician told us he’s going to charge us for every point, I was stressed! Did you know every downlight is considered a point? Me neither! Tip: It’s always worth checking how many points are included in your renovation!

I tried keeping the number of points low, however, I still ended up with seven points! My en-suite is a long room with one tiny window at one end of the room, next to the shower, so alternative light options are essential. I’ve opted for three equally spaced downlights, above the shower, toilet and the vanity, to evenly light up the space.

I would’ve liked wall lights, but I am lacking in wall space so I opted for a light up wall mirror from Roper Rhodes that also de-mists! What I’m most excited about the mirror is that it has a motion sensor so no more jumpscares or turning on the wrong light in the middle of the night!

After renovating two bathrooms, I’ve realised that the best decisions aren’t always the trendiest or the cheapest – they’re the ones that make everyday life easier, with a side of bougie. Renovating is often a process of trial and error, and whilst I wouldn't change the lessons I've learnt along the way, I'm hoping this time I've found the sweet spot between what is practical and what looks beautiful too.

It can be hard to strike the balance between a cluttered countertop and a well-stocked one, especially when creating a dedicated space for making tea and coffee. In my time as Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor I've learned one of the things that those with organised coffee stations always have is some kind of tray or organiser to curate their nook around.

And now, I've found a very affordable solution to do just that: enter IKEA's £5 NÅLBLECKA organiser.

This versatile organiser is one of the brand's new-in kitchenware gems – alongside a bargain £15 fridge system and £4 hideaway dish drainer. Here's why it's genius for doubling storage space either on your worktop or in your cupboards.

The reviews accumulated for the NÅLBLECKA organiser collection show off its versatility. Of course, the flexibility of these Scandi-inspired products is the reason why so many IKEA hacks flood social media feeds every week, and with a little bit of vision even a humble £5 organiser like this one can help to switch up your space.

While one user has so far remarked that they were using it as a mug holder, another has already been using it as a method to keep loose cooking items organised.

The version with a tray on the top and bottom has a 4.8 star rating out of 5 from 496 reviews, with a whole host of reviewers saying it's a great fit for cooking oils and jars that need to be within easy reach.

For a coffee station specifically, the gap underneath the £5 organiser works well as it gives space for mug stacking – especially for those oversized mugs space which need to stack together without being restricted. Up top, the tray element is a good spot for tea bags, sugar or coffee too.

If you're stuck for space horizontally on your worktop, the legs of these organisers allow them to stack together too which is great for making the most of any vertical storage space you have.

The debate on what should be left on a kitchen worktop and what should be tidied away is always alive and well at Ideal Home towers. If there's one thing we all agree on though, its that one of the the things that people with a tidy kitchen worktop always have is a clutter bucket or tray to collect loose items.

Of course, the NÅLBLECKA is a kind of elevated tray but if you want something more interiors-led, these are the picks I would opt for in the ultra-organised kitchen of my dreams.

Whether you opt for IKEA's ultra-affordable organiser or one of these alternatives, the key to a curated and less chaotic kitchen countertop is all in picking the right place to gather your must-haves. Are you all for storing things on your worktop or do you prefer to hide everything away?

Lavender is a staple in any drought-tolerant garden, which means it’s perfectly suited to the hot weather we’re having this summer. Can you plant lavender in July, though?

Well, according to experts, you can – you’ll just need to complete a few preparatory tasks beforehand. Learning how to grow lavender is pretty easy, because it’s so low-maintenance, but it still needs a little extra help settling into the garden when the weather is hot and dry.

‘Whilst July isn’t the best time to plant Lavender, if you’ve been given a plant by a friend or need to fill an empty space and must plant during this month, then there are a few things which you can do to make the process as successful as possible and reduce the stress for your plant,’ says Lucie Bradley, gardening and greenhouse expert at Easy Garden Irrigation.

So, under what conditions can you plant lavender in July? Here’s what the experts recommend.

What you'll need

1. Keep new plants well-watered

Lavender might be a hardy Mediterranean plant once established, but it'll struggle to establish itself in hot, dry weather.

’Dry weather means your plant will lose more moisture from its leaves than its roots can supply, which makes a new plant vulnerable to transplant shock and could result in your lavender wilting, dropping leaves and even struggling to survive,’ explains Lucie.

That doesn’t mean you can’t plant lavender in July, though – you can still buy the plants in a range of sizes, like English lavender ‘Hidcote’ from Crocus. You’ll just need to start by compensating for that lack of soil moisture.

‘You need to soak the root ball of the plant before transferring it to the ground, as well as fill the planting hole with water and allow it to soak into the soil prior to positioning the plant,’ Lucie advises.

After that, you’ll need to keep the soil moist (never waterlogged, since drought-tolerant plants hate sitting soggy). Lucie recommends deep watering the plant twice a week, avoiding wetting the foliage where possible, but always check the soil beforehand (a soil moisture meter like this one from Amazon can be a useful indicator).

2. Mulch with gravel

To lock some of that moisture in, Lucie also recommends mulching around the base of your lavender plant. Don’t reach for bags of organic matter mulch, though, since lavender tends to thrive in poor, free-draining soils.

‘If you use a light-coloured gravel or stones to act as mulch (don’t use organic mulches, as these can hold too much water to suit lavender), the light colour will help to reflect the strong July sunlight into the lower canopy of the plant,’ says Lucie. These Mellow Cotswold Decorative Stones from B&Q should do the trick.

If you want your lavender to flower well, you’ll also need to make you’re planting it in the correct position.

‘Ideally, lavender should be planted where it will receive at least six to eight hours of sunlight a day, or it will produce fewer (or no) blooms, and may grow leggy in attempt to reach the light,’ says Richard Barker, horticultural expert at LBS Horticulture.

3. Provide some shade

It might seem like a waste of time to shield a sun-loving, drought-tolerant plant from the sun, but new plants will benefit from a little extra protection while they establish themselves in your garden. As Lucie mentioned before, transplant shock is still a looming risk – but there are several ways to shade plants from the sun.

‘It’s best to shade your new plant over the first few weeks at mid-afternoon so it’s not damaged by the intense sunlight,’ says Lucie. ‘This can be done easily by using garden canes to support either shade netting, garden fleece or an old pale sheet above your plant to protect it from strong sunlight.’

You can order shade netting for plants online, like this Seedzbox Shade Netting from Amazon.

'If you’re looking to plant lavender in July, it’s important to try and minimise heat stress on the plant,' adds Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk. 'Choose a time when there is no prolonged heatwave and temperatures are slightly cooler.

So, you can plant lavender in July – you'll just need to water it in well, add some gravel mulch around the base, and consider shielding it from the intense midday sun.

Companion planting is the practice of planting different plants in proximity to each other to help them grow and thrive. In light of this year’s heatwaves and the likelihood that future summers will be even hotter, shade companion planting is the clever method gardeners are turning to to ensure their plants stay protected from the hot sun.

When you think of companion planting ideas, you’re likely thinking of combinations that stop pests from destroying your garden. But with shade companion planting, these combinations consist of using hardier, taller plants to provide shade for delicate, smaller plants - and it’s one of the best ways to help heat-proof your garden.

‘One of the simplest ways to create a more resilient garden is to think about plants as a community rather than as individuals. In nature, taller trees and shrubs naturally create sheltered microclimates beneath their canopies, protecting smaller plants from the hottest afternoon sun, reducing water loss and helping the soil retain moisture. We can borrow the same principle in our own gardens,’ explains Andrew Jackson, award-winning garden writer, designer and creator of The New Build Manifesto.

Here are five combinations you can put to practice in your garden.

1. Verbena bonariensis, geraniums and heucheras

If you love cottage gardens, Andrew recommends using this planting scheme to achieve a whimsical, romantic border that remains resilient in hotter gardens. Use plants like verbena bonariensis, bronze fennel and ornamental grasses at the back, pot astrantia, hardy geraniums and foxgloves in the middle and have heucheras, alchemilla and epimedium in the front, he advises.

‘The tall, airy plants filter sunlight rather than blocking it completely, reducing heat stress while allowing enough light through for flowering plants beneath. The layered planting also helps keep the soil cooler and slows evaporation, meaning plants need less watering during dry spells,’ says Andrew.

Where to buy verbena bonariensis, geraniums and heucheras

• Verbena bonariensis, £7.99, Crocus
• Geranium 'Border Supreme' F2 - Seeds, £4.49, Thompson & Morgan
• Heuchera 'Eternal Flame', £13.99, Thompson & Morgan

2. Culver’s root and lily turf

Another beautiful combination you should consider is Culver’s root and lily turf. This striking combination of one of the best plants for clay soil and one of the best ornamental grasses for shade makes a resilient yet colourful display.

‘Culver’s Root is the ideal architectural plant for sunny garden borders, as these low-maintenance, hardy herbaceous perennials thrive in sunny borders, growing in dense clumps up to two metres high and with a spread of around one metre. To take advantage of the shade that this perennial provides, growing Lilyturf at its base will provide this small, grass-like evergreen,’ says Lucie Bradley, gardens and greenhouse expert at Easy Gardens Irrigation.

‘The partial shade-attracting ground cover protects from direct sunlight that this sun-sensitive plant prefers to protect its foliage from being bleached by strong sun rays. With both Culver’s Root and Lilyturf enjoying the same consistently moist, well-draining soil, they can be grown easily together. These two plants also complement each other in other ways, including the timing of their blooms, with the tall ‘candelabra’ style spikes of the Culver’s root appearing in mid to late summer, closely followed by the vibrant, smaller spikes of dense, bead- like flowers which appear from late summer into autumn.’

Where to buy Culver’s root and lily turf

• Veronicastrum virginicum 'Fascination', £12.99, Crocus
• Liriope muscari, £12.99, Crocus

3. Olive trees, lavender, creeping thyme

Climate-resistant planting schemes will inevitably embrace Mediterranean garden ideas. Mediterranean plants are well equipped to deal with hot, dry, poor conditions, making this one of the easiest planting combinations you can follow.

Andrew recommends planting a multi-stem olive tree or Amelanchier lamarckii at the back of your border, with either salvias, nepeta or lavender in the middle and creeping thyme, oregano or low-growing sedums.

‘Although Mediterranean plants enjoy sunshine, even they benefit from cooler root conditions. The light canopy of a small tree creates welcome shade during the hottest part of the day, while aromatic groundcover plants act as a living mulch, reducing soil temperatures and locking in moisture,’ he says.

Where to buy olive trees, lavender, creeping thyme

• Olea Europaea- Olive Trees - Half standards - Established Plants Approx 100 cm Tall, £32.99, B&Q
• Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote', £7.99, Crocus
• Creeping Phlox Collection, £8.99, Thompson & Morgan

4. Foxgloves and aquilegia

Foxgloves are tall and low-maintenance, making them a great choice as a shade companion plant. Plus, with grandma gardens making a comeback this summer, they’re perfectly on-trend, too.

‘Foxgloves are not only popular to include in your garden as they provide striking vertical height, with tall spires of tubular bell-shaped blooms which are magnets to beneficial pollinators whilst also being low maintenance and pest resilient, but their height also makes them ideal companion plants for other plants which are more sensitive to the sun,’ says Lucie.

‘When in full flower, from May to July, their vertical height can be used to naturally shade plants such as Aquilegia, which prefer dappled shade and usually stand between 60 to 90cm in height. With flowers appearing from mid-May until June, their blooms will overlap and make for a perfect, long-lasting display in a cottage garden. Whilst the shallow roots of the foxglove won’t compete for space with the deep taproots of aquilegia, ensuring they both can access moisture without competing, and they both prefer moist, humus-rich soil, making them ideal companion plants.’

Where to buy foxgloves and aquilegia

• Foxglove 'Dalmatian Mixed', £7.99, Thompson & Morgan
• Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata 'Ruby Port', £9.99, Crocus

5. Birch trees, hydrangeas and tiarella

If you thought you had to say goodbye to hydrangeas because of the heat, think again. This planting scheme is perfect for creating a woodland edge in your garden, helping it stay cooler.

Andrew says to plant birch trees or serviceberry trees at the edge of your border. Then, you can plant hydrangeas, ferns and Japanese anemones in the middle, followed by hostas, tiarella or pulmonaria at the front - simply choose a combo you like!

‘These plants naturally grow along woodland edges where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade. The open canopy of birch or amelanchier provides dappled light without creating heavy shade, allowing moisture-loving plants to thrive while protecting them from scorching temperatures,’ adds Andrew.

Where to buy birch trees, hydrangeas and tiarella

• Betula alba Pendula - Silver Birch - Circa 220-250cm Tall, was £89.99, now £59.99 at Gardening Express
• Hydrangea paniculata 'Vanille Fraise', £11.99, Thompson & Morgan
• Tiarella 'Pink Skyrocket', £10.99, Crocus

‘As our summers become warmer, gardening is becoming less about finding plants that tolerate full sun and more about designing gardens that create their own favourable conditions. Layering plants by height to provide gentle shade is an easy technique that improves plant health, reduces watering and produces borders that feel softer, more natural and more resilient over time,’ Andrew concludes.

With so many combinations to try, shade companion planting is like a shortcut to a stunning yet climate-resilient garden.

Sofas are investment pieces. Working in interiors, I'm well aware that a good one doesn't come cheap. However, now and again, I come across those unicorn sofas that are not only design-forward, well-reviewed and under the £250 mark, and that is exactly what the £209 Marseille 2 seater sofa at Dusk is.

The online homeware store, Dusk, is already famous on the Ideal Home desk for delivering high-end looks with low price tags. However, right now they are holding one of their many big sales, making their luxe-looking furniture, best sofas and home accessories even more affordable.

The Marseille range of sofas and armchairs is relatively new, launching as part of the Dusk SS26 collection. At full price, the range was already incredibly affordable, with the most expensive sofa, the Marseille 3-seater, costing £449 (currently reduced to £404), and the 2-seater sofa in Latte has been reduced from £349 to £209.

The Marseille sofas are available in two colours, Chenille Ivory and Latte. The Latte colourway in the 2-seater has the biggest saving on it, with £140 knocked off the price, while the Ivory 2-seater has only been reduced by £30 from £299 to £269.

However, even at the slightly higher price, this sofa is a steal (even for a two-seater). It's a price point I've only seen rivalled at IKEA, Habitat and Dunelm, and trust me, they look nowhere near as stylish.

What makes the Marseille sofa look so expensive?

It's the sculptural arm shape that makes the sofa, and its armchair counterpart, which is currently reduced from £259 to £155, look so expensive. The curved arm is a design feature I've only seen in higher-end designs, such as the Rockett St George Ivory Boucle Fabric Curved Arm Armchair, which was priced at £1,340 but is now on sale for £670.

I also love the luxurious-looking latte colourway; however, I am holding out hope that the sofa will soon be available in the rich terracotta colourway they've launched the Marseille armchair in, priced at £233 (down from £259).

Of course, there will be compromises you have to make with any sofa under £300. In the case of the Dusk Marseille sofa, the main ones I can spot are the extra support leg poking out of the middle of the seat and the thin-looking cushions.

However, the reviews of the range rave about the comfort and design. 'The design is a little different and gets lots of compliments, it's also comfy!' writes one reviewer. 'The sofa looks so modern and stylish. Easy to assemble and so comfortable. Such good quality but not pricey at all,' writes another.

The summer sale won't be on forever, so if you love the look of this sofa or the matching armchair, I'd move fast. However, don't forget to factor in the delivery cost to the final price. For the two-seater sofa, you will need the two-man X-Large Box delivery, which should work out around £40.

Dusk also has been known to have long lead times on its furniture; however, for these particular sofas, I've found delivery slots available from 29th July.

This isn't the only item I'm eyeing up in the Dusk summer sale. Here are the other design-forward buys I'm planning to snap up to give my home a luxe look on a budget.

New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced that VAT will be cut from household electricity bills from 1 October 2026.

The move, which will see 5% VAT reduced to zero, is expected to cut around £45 from typical annual electricity bills over winter, and will be welcome news to those who already go to significant lengths to save energy at home and reduce their monthly bills.

Speaking less than 48-hours into his new role, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: 'I said I wanted to give people breathing space, and that’s what I’m announcing on my second day as Prime Minister.

'We’re taking immediate action to cut taxes on energy bills, put more money in people’s pockets and bring back hope.

'Cutting VAT on electricity bills is expected to take around £45 off the yearly Ofgem price cap in October.'

The reduction is set to be passed on to the millions of households in England, Wales and Scotland via their suppliers and is expected to include those on both fixed and standard variable tariffs. While some measures of energy bill relief over recent years have only been available to those in receipt of certain benefits, no such eligibility criteria has been announced for this VAT reduction.

Rules work slightly differently in Northern Ireland, but the government has said that the NI Executive will receive comparable funding to enable it to similarly support households in Northern Ireland.

While the energy price cap figure for the period between 1 October and 31 December 2026 has yet to be announced by the energy regulator Ofgem, current predictions from analysts at Cornwall Insight have the cap sitting at around £1,849 (based on the current typical domestic consumption values of 2,700 kWh per annum for electricity and 11,500 kWh per annum for gas). As a comparison, the current energy price cap is set at £1,862.

The official price cap figure for autumn will be announced on 26 August, and will be calculated using new typical domestic consumption values to reflect a fall in the average household's energy use.

Is it enough to help struggling households?

Is an average £45 annual reduction enough to help households struggling with high electricity bills? In isolation, probably not. But it's a step in the right direction to provide some relief, especially at a time when households are more likely to be using more electricity hungry appliances, like tumble dryers.

When combined with other electricity saving measures, from simply turning off vampire appliances to more involved solutions like investing in plug-in solar panels (when they become available) or a rooftop solar panel array, households can also reduce their energy consumption to lower their bills.

If you are still concerned you won't be able to pay your energy bills over the colder months, reach out to your supplier in the first instance. They will be able to help move you on to a cheaper tariff if applicable, or check your eligibility for further assistance.

TikTok has whipped itself up into a frenzy over B&M’s inflatable footstools, but after taking one look at their space-saving design and stylish material, I’m surprised to say I'm a fan of this trending buy.

B&M is no stranger to social media infamy. Only recently, their Brunch Club tableware collection sold out after going viral across TikTok and Instagram, and now, small living room dwellers will want to get a wriggle on if they want to snap up this latest favourite.

Costing just £12, B&M’s Home Collection Square Inflatable Footstool is perfect for small spaces. If you want somewhere to rest your feet for an evening, but don’t want to give up precious floor space indefinitely, you don’t want to miss this.

Even though I have a small living room, I’ve long appreciated the comfort a footstool supplies when relaxing in the evening. Having somewhere to *literally* putting your feet up after a long day is undeniably a fantastic feeling.

But where I’ve opted for a storage footstool (like Next’s Casual Boucle Oyster Natural Ashton Upholstered Storage Stool, £165) to justify the square inches it takes up on my floor, I’m a big fan of B&M’s space-saving alternative. The B&M inflatable footstool, as you would have guessed, inflates and deflates - so you can store it away easily when not in use.

The footstools can be blown up by mouth, or I’d imagine a small pump would do the job. It has a plastic inside and a woven material cover for a stylish finish.

It’s available in a stylish neutral checkerboard print and bolder zebra and leopard print footstools. Surprisingly, it’s the animal prints I’ve spotted online, but as a self-confessed leopard print obsessive, I’m quite pleased by this.

In a video which has gained over 15,000 likes, TikTok user @nekopixie snapped up the zebra print footstool for her home. The post went viral, with commenters also keen to snap one up for themselves.

‘I've got the leopard print one. It's the cutest thing ever!!!’ said one user.

‘Omg I need this!’ said another.

Alternatively, a folding footstool can also be a great space-saving alternative for small living rooms. Dunelm’s £12 Faux Linen Cube Ottoman comes in a range of stylish colourways and offers both storage and folds into a flatpack, so can easily be tidied away when not in use. It’s a brilliant idea if you lack space but also need extra storage.

Here are a few more space-saving footstools and ottomans that are perfect for tiny homes.

It’s easy to see why this B&M bargain has proved so popular. But given that B&M products can only be bought in-store, you’ll have to be quick if you want to get your hands on one.

A tree makes a stunning focal point in any outside space, but choose too-large a tree for a small garden, and there’s the danger that it will completely overwhelm the space. But opt for a smaller, multi-stem tree, and it can make as striking a focal point as any large tree but while still feeling in proportion with the space. And there’s the bonus of low-maintenance multi-stem trees being much easier to look after too, so what’s not to love?

‘If your home has a small garden, then multi-stem trees are one of the best trees for small spaces, offering a really simple yet effective way to create a focal point without needing to compromise on any valuable outdoor space,’ says David Denyer, flower and garden expert at Eflorist.

‘If planning a small garden, it's worth factoring in that many varieties of multi-stem tree require little maintenance in modest gardens once established, which makes them perfect for the majority of us who probably don’t have a huge amount of time to spend tending to their garden.'

1. Silver birch

Multi-stem trees are becoming increasingly popular. A brilliant option for compact gardens or small patio ideas, the tree’s energy is divided across several smaller stems (rather than one large trunk), which naturally restricts the overall height and spread of the tree and keeps it more compact.

And by fanning out from the ground (rather than up high), multi-stem trees create interesting structural forms that give interest at eye-level without requiring a large footprint, which is why they work so well in smaller gardens.

‘When it comes to multi-stem trees, the striking white bark on silver birch trees helps to really set them apart compared to other tree types, adding year-round impact and a bit of variety in a smaller garden,’ says David.

‘Silver birches are also a great tree for creating shade in your garden, so try not to go for one that is too big and will block too much sun,’ adds David.

Where to buy silver birch trees:

• Gardening Express: Make a statement with this striking Betula utilis jacquemontii - West Himalayan Birch, from £29.97.
• Thompson & Morgan: Or go for this stunner - Silver Birch tree (Betula pendula) grown by Cotswold Trees, from £25.95.

2. Fuji cherry tree

‘The easy-to-grow Fuji cherry tree is a delicate plant with its long twigs coming to life in late winter and early spring with stunning flowers,’ says Chris Bonnet, founder of Gardening Express. ‘The leaves change shade each season for year-round interest, and it will thrive in full sun, requiring just a light prune in mid-summer, purely to remove dead, diseased or crossing branches.’

When choosing where to place a multi-stem tree, positioning them in a prominent spot, like the centre of a lawn or a courtyard garden, can work well, where their features can be enjoyed up close, such as a tree with fragrant blossoms or an attractive peeling bark. In larger spaces, consider positioning one where you can take advantage of the dappled shade, such as around a garden seating area.

Where to buy Fuji cherry trees:

• Gardening Express: Enjoy the pretty blossoms of this Prunus incisa Kojo-No-Mai - Standard Fuji Cherry Tree, £34.99.
• Roots Plants: Or try this stunning 5ft 'Mount Fuji' Cherry Blossom Tree | Prunus serrulata 'Shirotae', from £55.

Shop these tree-planting essentials

3. Amelanchier

Another major benefit of choosing a multi-stem tree for a small garden is that they create open, airy canopies that help to softly filter sunlight, rather than dense foliage that casts heavy shadows, which keeps smaller gardens feeling light and bright rather than dark and shady.

‘Amelanchiers are a great choice for a compact garden, because they are small and require minimal pruning,’ suggests David. ‘During spring you’ll be treated to delicate white springtime blossoms, then summer brings green foliage and autumn a vibrant orange and then red leaves throughout autumn.’

‘This makes amelanchier a great choice for anyone wanting to switch up the look of their garden throughout the year, and they won’t take up too much space either,’ adds David.

Where to buy amelanchier trees:

• Crocus: Perfect for a small garden, try this Amelanchier laevis 'Snowflakes', from £79.99.
• Sarah Raven: Or go for the compact Amelanchier lamarcki Snowy Mespilus, £17.47.

4. Himalayan birch

‘This versatile tree with its silvery white bark and architectural shape will create a fabulous focal point in the garden,’ says Chris. ‘It thrives in a sunny south-facing spot with well-drained soil, and it will need pruning between late summer and mid-winter.

‘When it comes to pruning a Himalayan birch tree, remove only dead, diseased or crossing branches,' adds Chris. 'And if there’s a build-up of green algae on the trunk, gently sponge this off with warm water.’

Where to buy Himalayan birch trees:

• Gardening Express: With a stunning white bark, try this Betula utilis 'Snow Queen' - Himalayan Birch - 250-300cm Tall, £69.99.
• Roots Plants: Or go for the striking Silver Birch Tree | Betula pendula, from £40.

5. Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)

‘Acer palmatum (also known as Japanese maple) is a good, low-maintenance choice for any small garden or one of the best trees to grow in pots,’ suggests Chris. ‘This architectural plant looks beautiful all year round with colour-changing displays throughout the seasons.’

‘Acers require minimum care - some gentle pruning to keep the tree’s shape, with heavy pruning best done during January and February when the plant is dormant,’ adds Chris.

Where to buy Acer palmatum trees:

• Suttons: Enjoy a blaze of colour with this fiery red Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood', from £44.99.
• Amazon: Or try this stunning orange toned You Garden - Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Orange Dream', from £22.99.

6. Olive tree

‘Olive trees offer a contemporary and Mediterranean vibe to any sized garden or outdoor space,’ suggests David. ‘And they will thrive when added to any large container if planting space is limited.

‘Olive trees are also incredibly resilient in hot weather and extremely drought-tolerant, making them perfect for placing in any sunny or sheltered areas.’

Where to buy olive trees:

• B&Q: Add a Mediterranean vibe with this large standard olive tree, £52.99.
• Amazon: Or start small with this potted patio hardy olive tree, £45.90.

7. Californian lilac

‘With evergreen foliage and bright blue flowers from spring until early summer, Californian Lilac is a welcome addition to any garden, big or small,’ says Chris.

‘An easy-to-maintain plant, Californian lilac will only need trimming lightly once the blue flowers have faded, which will help maintain the bushy shape,’ adds Chris.

Where to buy Californian lilac trees:

• Gardening Express: Add stunning blue colour outdoors with this Large Ceanothus thyrsiflorus repens - Californian Lilac Tree - circa 140-160cm, £79.99.
• Thompson & Morgan: Or go for the smaller Ceanothus 'Italian Skies'Californian Lilac Hardy Shrub, from £12.99.

Want to create a focal point in your small garden? Have you considered adding a multi-stem tree? Let us know.

From roses and ornamental grasses to painted metal furniture, there are several garden trends making a comeback, proving that good design always comes full circle. What felt dated a few years ago is having a resurgence, as we fall back in love with nostalgic planting, heritage materials and gardens with a bit more personality.

Blame it on Rivals, blame it on the wider wave of nostalgia gripping everything from fashion to interiors, either way, we're dreaming of romantic country English gardens filled with colour, character and creative charm. Even outdoor furniture is having its own throwback moment.

From planting choices and landscaping ideas, we asked gardening and outdoor living experts which outdated garden trends are making a comeback, and exactly how to embrace them this time around.

1. Grandma gardens are reviving nostalgic planting

If there was any doubt that nostalgic gardens were making a comeback, the popularity of the 'Grandma Garden' trend firmly proves otherwise. As the name suggests, the aesthetic takes inspiration from the characterful gardens many of us remember from our childhood. Think colourful planting, vintage-inspired furniture, wildlife-friendly borders and gardens that feel collected over time, rather than curated.

Danielle Le Vaillant, head of photography & film at Cox & Cox believes the shift is being driven by our desire for comfort and familiarity. 'In a rapidly changing world, people crave security which makes us nostalgic for the places we felt secure and happy,' she says. 'For most that’s a childhood space, like granny’s garden where the summers were endless and there were adventures to be had around every corner, followed by snacks at the little wrought iron bistro set on the patio.'

It's also a sign we're becoming more confident showing character outdoors, says Danielle. 'For years, many gardens ended up looking remarkably similar – the same staple features, the same grey furniture. Our outdoor spaces are a being treated much more like interiors where the same appetite for antique or vintage style pieces exists, as well as the desire for layered textiles.'

It's this renewed appreciation for traditional gardens that's helping to bring everything from roses to metal furniture back in fashion.

2. Classic roses

Topping the list of nostalgic plants making a resurgence is the classic English rose. Once seen as too fussy or old-fashioned for modern gardens, these timeless blooms are enjoying a revival as gardeners rediscover their scent, charm and wildlife appeal.

As Dr Russell Sharp, founder of Eutrema, explains, roses fell out of favour as many gardens shifted towards cleaner, more minimalistic planting schemes. 'Roses were sometimes dismissed as being too much work because of pruning, but they're becoming popular again because gardeners are looking for plants that bring character, scent and a strong connection to traditional gardens.'

Thankfully, today's varieties are much easier to care for. Dr Sharp says many modern varieties are more disease-resistant and better suited to contemporary gardens, making them a much less demanding choice than their reputation suggests.

Rather than planting roses in formal beds, Dr Sharp recommends pairing them with ornamental grasses, salvias, lavender or other long-flowering perennials for a softer, more natural look. 'They work well in smaller gardens when trained against walls, fences or arches, where they add height without taking up much ground space,' he adds.

Softer shades such as blush pinks, apricots and whites help to keep the look fresh rather than dated.

Try a romantic variety, such as the Olivia Rose Austin (£35, David Austin), which lets one or two statement blooms stand out beautifully among simpler planting.

3. Ornamental grasses

Once a staple of noughties gardens, ornamental grasses lost their appeal for looking untidy, particularly during winter. Today, however, they're taking centre stage again thanks to the rise of naturalistic planting.

Michael Wheat, founder of Ponds by Michael Wheat says big drifts of grasses, like Miscanthus and Stipa are back in force now, inspired by prairie-style planting popularised by designers like Piet Oudolf.

'Ornamental grasses fell out of favour because gardeners were cutting them back too hard and too often, losing the winter structure that's actually the whole point,' he explains.

Michael says ornamental grasses work brilliantly around water, softening the edges of a pond or border, helping to soften hard landscaping, and create a relaxed, more natural feel. 'Used well, they give movement, texture and habitat for insects right through to spring,' he adds.

Recreate the look with an elegant variety, like this Miscanthus sinensis 'Kleine Silberspinne' (£10 from Crocus),, which reaches up to 1.2m, making it perfect for adding height to borders or as a standalone feature.

4. Gravel gardens

Gravel gardens were once dismissed as a low-effort option, and often associated with sparse new-build front gardens, rather than proper planting.

Now, they're one of the garden trends making a comeback, largely because of the drought summers we've had, says Michael. 'Now, paired with drought-tolerant perennials like sedum, achillea and lavender, they're valued for using far less water than a traditional lawn or border, while still looking deliberate rather than neglected.'

Rather than relying on gravel alone, he recommends combining it with structural planting and ornamental grasses. 'In a contemporary garden, both work best combined rather than as one big block: threading grasses through gravel with pockets of structural planting for year-round interest.'

The result? A garden that's not only low-maintenance but also packed with texture and seasonal interest.

5. Painted metal furniture is replacing rattan

For years, chunky rattan styles were at the forefront of garden furniture ideas, but traditional painted metal bistro and dining sets are making a stylish return as English country gardens grow in popularity.

'Metal sets which were seen as dated, impractical and uncomfortable and were replaced by larger boxy faux rattan styles which gave a more contemporary look, but now feel a bit hotel terrace,' says Danielle.

Today’s look is more romantic, pastel and heritage tones have replaced standard black and white metal furniture. 'We are also styling it much more casually – we can mix and match different chair types and colours around an outdoor dining table and dress with comfy cushions, tablecloths and vintage accessories for a much softer look,' adds Danielle.

To embrace the trend in 2026, Danielle recommends bringing in bold stripes, frilled seat pads and scalloped or fringed parasols that reference both English country gardens and Mediterranean holidays - added to a modern garden, the result feels less like a patio and more like decorating a room.

Shop the trend

Whether you're inspired by Grandma Gardens or painted metal furniture, these garden trends making a comeback prove that good design never really goes out of style.

Amanda Jones is one of Ideal Home's new Open House contributors, sharing her thoughts on sustainable living and decorating a home in way that is good for the environment. See the rest of her articles here.

I love art, and I’ve bought some fabulous vintage pieces over the years. I buy art instinctively, and until recently, like lots of people, I’ve not thought too much about the artist, why they paint, or how they live their lives.

I go with my gut when choosing art. I never look at what’s trending, I just buy purely based on how a painting makes me feel, and colour is a massive draw to me. I’m a bit partial to a female portrait, much to my family’s despair, who do not share my enthusiasm. Last year I was asked not to bring anymore ‘strange women’ into the house, but to be honest, I’m not sure how much longer I can hold out, I LOVE female portraits.

I quite like an old frame too, one with bits missing, a bit of gilt, or one that someone painted many years ago, and that’s now a bit faded and chipped. Many of my paintings don’t even have frames, they are just propped up against the wall or piece of furniture, or strategically placed to hide a plug socket (another thing that irritates my family).

Most of my art is old oil paintings. I love the texture of oils, and that they don’t fade from the sun that streams through our windows. I don’t just hang art on my walls, I also have a huge vintage map of Great Britian and Ireland on my wall, it’s an old school chart, snapped up at a bargain price. The more colourful and quirkier something is, the more I love it.

For my 50^th birthday my friend bought me a beautiful painting of Venice, it’s one of my favourite cities. That painting was the start of a small collection of Venice paintings, I’ve bought over the years. They are now grouped together on my dining room wall. All from different eras, different styles, and different frames, but work together so well.

I mainly buy from small sellers in person, at vintage fairs or online. One of my favourite sellers is my good friend Julia, who sells art on her Instagram Antikquity and she also has a shop in Nottinghamshire. In her shop you’ll find some very eclectic and interesting art works.

Whilst I can appreciate art, and the skill of the artist, I had thought very little about the artist, why they paint, or how they manage to make a living through their art. That changed last year when my daughter Mia, returned from university.

After going to see a David Hockney exhibition, she was inspired to start painting again. She loved painting so much, she decided to set up her art business, Art By Mia Jones, over on Instagram. Over the past year Mia has sold original oils and sent hundreds of prints across the world.

For a new artist, just starting out, she has done very well. That said, this last year has been hard, a steep learning curve. I don’t think Mia realised how difficult it would be to create art, run a business, and promote yourself on social media. As I’ve watched all her highs, and lows over the last year, it has given me a deep appreciation for artists, especially those just starting out.

Although I’ve mainly bought vintage art in the past, I also know there are many wonderfully talented artists out there, so I’ve made a pledge, after seeing how hard my own daughter has worked, to try and support more of them.

This year I’ve not only bought some of my own daughters’ paintings, but I’ve also supported other artists too. I’ve bought a painting from Fiona Cumberpatch and a screenprint from Hannah Carvell, a fellow Open House writer. Both pieces have added another layer to my home, another part of my story.

If you love art and interiors, please consider supporting some of the independent artists out there. Let’s avoid the mass produced, AI generated prints, and focus more on individual artists. Whether it’s buying a small print, or commissioning a larger piece of art, the artist will be very appreciative of your custom.

If you can’t afford to buy anything right now, engaging in their social media platforms, liking and sharing their content, is another way you can help them.

After many years of buying vintage paintings, I’m now starting to view things a little differently, yes, I will continue to buy second-hand, but I will also be seeking out beautiful, interesting art, directly from living, breathing artists. Art really can enhance our homes and bring us much joy, let’s in turn support the amazing artists and creatives out there.

While most people focus on tidying and organising the rooms they use (and see) on a daily basis, the reality is that the areas you use less typically need more attention. And the one area we all forget to declutter? The garage.

Of course, most people don’t want to spend their summer decluttering the garage. But with the kids off school, some free time on your hands and the warmer weather keeping things dry, professional organisers say that now is the perfect time to do it. Especially as your garage has probably become a dumping ground.

As Kate Dufton, Professional Organiser and Declutter at Ace Your Space, explains, ‘Garages become the home's unofficial storage unit, much like the loft. Before you know it, the space feels overwhelming and becomes somewhere you avoid altogether.’ So, follow these easy steps to reclaim your garage once and for all.

1. Start with a vision

Today, garages have so many uses, from storing summer essentials like tents and bikes to even a spare freezer. But as Shannon Murphy, Professional Organiser and Founder of Simpl Living Co, warns, ‘Garages are often one of the most cluttered areas of the home because they become a dumping ground for broken items, things people plan to sell and possessions they're undecided about.’

But since a garage has so many uses, it’s important to make a plan before you start decluttering it this summer. The best way to do this is to figure out what you want to use the garage for. Is it simply a place to store the car? If so, you’ll need to get rid of anything unrelated to your vehicle. Or does it need to offer more?

Kate advises, ‘Think about exactly what needs to live in the garage - tools, gardening equipment, decorating supplies, camping gear or sports equipment. Having a clear vision will help you make better decisions about what stays and keep you motivated throughout the project.’

2. Choose your method

There are countless decluttering methods out there, as decluttering is a very personal activity that needs to be tailored to how you work best. And if you prefer to tick things off your list in a single sitting, Shannon says that emptying everything and starting from scratch is your best bet - especially in the summer when you have more time on your hands.

‘Choose a dry day and remove everything from the garage. Seeing the space empty and grouping similar items together makes it much easier to decide what to keep,’ she says. However, if you struggle with decision fatigue and clutter overwhelm, this method might not work for you.

In this instance, Hester Van Hien, a Home Decluttering and Organising Consultant from Tidylicious, suggests breaking the task into chunks instead. She advises, ‘This makes it easier to see the wood for the trees, and it can be a good warm-up for the actual decluttering. Start in one corner, and pull things out and organise everything by type or category.’

3. Utilise proper storage

The garage is one of the many places we’re all forgetting to declutter, but there’s often a reason for that - and that’s because we often don’t have the proper storage in place to keep things neat and tidy. That’s why, when decluttering your garage this summer, it’s well worth investing in effective storage to help you maintain this order in the long run.

Kate says, ‘Racking is essential in a garage to maximise the vertical space and keep your belongings off the floor. Use plastic containers on the shelves to store items, keeping them accessible and protected. If you have lots of tools or gardening equipment, consider investing in some wall-mounted storage so you can see everything at a glance and access it quickly.’

She adds, ‘Bikes also work well on wall-mounted hooks, freeing up floor space. And if you have a lot of sports equipment, use hooks and storage boxes to keep it organised.’ Thankfully, these storage solutions don’t have to cost a fortune - but they will make a big impact.

4. Label everything

Labelling can make or break a newly decluttered garage, as it adds an extra layer of organisation that will help you keep things neat and tidy in the long run. And Kate even goes as far as to say, ‘This bit is crucial.’

Shannon agrees, saying, ‘Rather than opening every box looking for one item, label each container or keep a contents list, so you know exactly what's inside.’ This goes for the rest of your household, too, so you won’t have any family members rummaging through the boxes and messing with your system.

This should also prevent the accidental purchase of any duplicates, too, as you’ll know exactly what you already have, so you don’t buy any more or waste your money. Just make sure you go through these boxes every to ensure you definitely still want and need the items inside them.

So, will you be decluttering your garage this summer?

Choosing paint colours for your home can be both fun and daunting. On one hand, you can truly put your stamp on your space and decorate it to your taste. But at the same time, the choice of paint colours is overwhelming – which is why many people choose a shade they later on end up regretting. I asked interior and paint experts what popular paint colours people regret going for most often.

The 4 popular paint ideas the experts came back with are a mix of expected and surprising shades. And while that doesn’t mean you should avoid these colours at all costs, it is recommended to be careful and considerate when using them in your home.

But this goes for any colour you choose for your home, whether it’s a timeless classic or a current colour trend. And the only way you can prevent later disappointment or falling out of love with your wall colours is by opting for those that you genuinely love and that work in your space.

‘We tend to find customers regret their colour choices when the decision was led by what was trending at the time, rather than something that truly reflects their personal style,’ says Cari Bateman, senior designer at Neville Johnson. ‘Be mindful of whether you're drawn to a colour because it's particularly trendy at that moment, or if it has longevity. It's also important to consider how your paint choice suits the room you are designing, how it complements any existing furniture or decor.’

Catherine Sanders, head of creative at Earthborn, shares her top tip on how to be sure about a paint colour ahead of covering your walls with it. ‘The safest approach is to test colours in the actual room before committing. Look at them in the morning, afternoon and evening, and consider the flooring, furniture, curtains and lighting. A colour that works with the room will always last longer than one chosen simply because it is fashionable.’

1. White

We’re starting off with perhaps the most surprising colour on the list – the (supposedly) timeless white. ‘Colours people regret are often the simplest, such as the wrong shade of white,’ Cari at Neville Johnson says.

It’s not necessarily all white in general as Cari hints at – but one room’s best white paint shade is different to another. And it’s largely based on the direction that room is facing and what kind of light it receives based on that.

But more often than not, it’s the cool white shades like brilliant white with blue and/or grey undertones that people most often regret, rather than the warm off-whites like Farrow & Ball's Wimborne White which are a safer bet.

‘White is probably the paint colour people regret most,’ says Anna Hill, brand director and colour consultant at Fenwick & Tilbrook. ‘It's been hugely popular for years but often leaves the room feeling cold or clinical rather than calm and inviting. I think that's because we all buy into the aspirational aesthetic of crisp, minimalist interiors, but in reality, our homes aren't like that.’

2. Lilac

Meanwhile, I wasn’t surprised to see a shade like lilac on the list of colours people most often regret. Despite some brands trying to make it a home decor trend, it’s a divisive colour at the best of times. And it’s very difficult to make it work in UK homes due to the kind of natural light (or lack thereof) they receive throughout the year.

‘The resurgence of lilac is a popular shade I would avoid. When used thoughtfully it can be beautiful, but so many homes in the UK have east or north facing spaces that really don't lend themselves well to pale purple shades, as they end up looking cold and grey for most of the day,’ Anna at Fenwick & Tilbrook explains.

3. Blue

Blue is not only the world’s favourite colour. It’s also one of the biggest colour trends of 2026. So I was somewhat taken aback to hear people are often unhappy with their blue-painted walls. But it turns out that it’s a similar case as with white, in that it’s often the shade of blue that people get wrong and therefore end up regretting.

‘In terms of colours that people seem to regret most, I’d say blue,’ says Jo Lane, founder and designer at online interior design service See Your Place. ‘Funnily enough, it’s one of the most popular colours in interiors, but you need to know exactly which shade to use in your room, depending on the type of light you get in your space. It can easily read too cold, too saturated or too dark, so in my experience it’s the hardest colour to get right.’

In order to avoid this very situation when I was looking for the best blue shade for my home, I was picking solely between light, soft blues with warm undertones. Eventually, I landed on Lick's Blue 08, available at B&Q.

4. Bright bold shades

I know that ‘bright bold shades’ is not one colour per se. But this really applies to all highly saturated, often primary shades of colours which were trending at the height of the dopamine decorating trend. But as a collectibe, it's one we’re now slowly falling out of love with, in favour of more mature, elevated and earthier shades.

‘I would be cautious with very bright, trend-led colours across large areas – they can quickly become overwhelming on every wall. These colours are often better used on furniture, shelving, a door or a small feature area,’ Catherine at Earthborn says.

However, there are exceptions to this, of course. And if a bright, bold colour - or lilac - makes you happy and you absolutely love it, then go for it. Farrow & Ball's Charlotte Locks bright orange shade is a bold statement, yet many people go crazy for it. And Richard E. Grant's hot pink snug, painted in Little Greene's Leather, isn't everyone's cup of tea, but it is his.

Do you have any past (or present) paint colour regrets?

It may only be July, but George Home has just dropped their autumn/ winter collections for 2026, and they’re serving up so many stylish home buys at bargain prices.

George Home is honestly one of my favourite places to shop for the latest home decor trends. It can give Oliver Bonas a run for its money with its bold and colourful homeware, but it is also home to many luxe-looking pieces, including statement vases and gorgeous bedding.

The latest AW26 drops are not short of variety either. There are five collections: Grounded, Supper Club, Snug Season, Luxe Remix and Disco Prairie, and I’ve spotted a few hidden gems with a high-end look hiding amongst them.

Immediately jumping out was the 12 Piece Burgundy Curved Dinner Set (£28), which is a dead ringer for HAY’s iconic Burgundy Barrow Plates. Bubble tableware was one of the biggest kitchenware trends last year due to its chic, retro look, and this favour of chunky tableware hasn’t disappeared this summer. In fact, brands like George Home are making it more accessible for everyone.

This isn’t the only ‘high-end’ item I’ve spotted. The Black Leopard Print Battery Table Lamp could have come straight from Rockett St George’s lookbook, but at just £15, it’s a fraction of the cost. And their dusky pink linen bedding set (£60 for a double) is a great deal when you compare it to Piglet In Bed’s Raspberry Linen Blend Duvet Cover (£119).

If you’re looking for small changes that will give your home a luxury update, here are my top six picks from George Home’s AW26 collections.

Which piece is your favourite?

I don’t know about you, but my fridge gets very full over the summer months, packed with picky bits, BBQ essentials, and fresh fruit and veg for those hot-weather meals. But while I’ve generally been a ‘shove it where there’s space’ kind of fridge organiser, experts say I’ve been doing it all wrong - especially in the midst of a heatwave.

Of course, many of the most common fridge organising rules revolve around cross-contamination and bacteria. But as AO's refrigeration expert, Jade Golding-Gault, explains, ‘As temperatures rise, your fridge must work harder to maintain a consistent temperature and keep food cool. Many people don’t realise that fridge temperatures are not consistent throughout and can differ per shelf.’

Because of this, you may need to reassess your summer fridge organisation and start moving things around to maximise freshness and minimise food waste. This is easy enough to do, though.

1. Make the most of the salad drawer

One of the biggest food organisation myths is that it doesn’t matter where you store items in a refrigerator, but that simply isn’t true. Most fridges are designed with designated areas for certain foods, especially fresh fruits and vegetables.

Jade says these need to go in the salad drawer during the summer months. She explains, ‘It may seem obvious, but the salad drawer is a crucial area of your fridge. These compartments are designed to maintain the right humidity levels, helping produce stay crisp and reducing food waste.’

If you don’t have enough space in your salad drawers for everything, there are ways to fake it so you can store food to make it last longer. These StayFresh Produce Keepers (£12.99 at Lakeland) are designed to do just that and can be placed on any shelf if you really don’t have any space. Just be warned that the temperature won’t be as stable.

2. Move your milk (if you can)

Whether you prefer cow’s milk, oat milk, soy milk or even pea milk in your morning cuppa, there’s a high chance that you pop your milk in the door of your fridge - and for good reason, too. It seems like the most logical place to put it, given the bottle's shape and size and the space available in the fridge.

But experts say that storing your milk in the fridge door can cause it to spoil more quickly in the summer. Chris Grundy, Senior Product Manager for Cooling at Haier, says, ‘Despite the built-in bottle shelf, the fridge door is actually the warmest part of the appliance because it's opened so frequently. For maximum freshness, milk should be stored on a middle shelf instead.’

However, I appreciate that this isn’t always possible, as many milk bottles and cartons are just too large to fit on a shelf. I’d also advise against storing it on its side, as this is a recipe for disastrous leaks. So, if you really can’t store it on a shelf, make sure you limit how long you keep a fridge door open.

3. Try not to overfill it

The key to a fridge full of fresh food is airflow and organising it so it’s never packed too tightly. And this is even more important during the summer, when temperature fluctuations already threaten your food's freshness.

Chris warns, ‘Overfilling the fridge is a common mistake. Cold air needs room to circulate, so leaving a little space between items helps maintain an even temperature throughout the appliance.’ And this is where fridge organisers like this selection of Dunelm fridge organisers can help you do that, as you can move and stack them in a way that allows for this airflow.

Ideally, you should aim to keep your fridge around 75% full, leaving 25% for cold air to circulate and maintain cooler temperatures. Doing this can also save you money in the long run, but if you’re really struggling for space, you could also try freezing more items in bags like these Amazon 1 Litre Freezer Bags (£1.74 at Amazon).

4. Unpack food as soon as you can

Temperature changes in a fridge become even more dangerous when the food inside is already starting to thaw. That’s why one of the biggest summer fridge organisation tips you shouldn’t ignore is to load up your fridge immediately after a food shop.

This should prevent your food from getting too warm - especially during a heatwave - and I swear by my Trolley Bags for Shopping Trolley (£24.95 at Amazon) for getting food out of the supermarket, into the car, and then into my fridge quickly and efficiently.

You should also take care when storing any cooked food, too. And Chris advises, ‘If you've cooked food, allow it to cool before refrigerating it, as placing hot dishes straight into the fridge raises the internal temperature.’ This can then have a knock-on effect on the other food in the fridge.

5. Adjust the temperature, if needed

While it’s not technically an organisation tip, knowing what temperature a fridge should be set at is even more important during the warmer months of the year, as this - combined with poor organisation - can wreak havoc on your food. Plus, some fridges can struggle in the heat without you realising.

James Cooper, Senior Product Manager for Refrigeration at Hotpoint, says, ‘Your fridge should be between 3 and 5°C, but during a heatwave, older models can fluctuate by 5-7°C throughout the day. If your fridge is too warm, food will start to go off, smell bad, or could even develop mould.’

He adds, ‘To ensure food stays fresh, your appliance needs to be able to maintain consistent temperatures – especially when the weather turns warmer.’ So, it’s worth understanding what the numbers on your fridge dial actually mean and maybe even investing in a standalone thermometer like this Salter Fridge Freezer Thermometer (£9 at Amazon).

So, take some time this week to re-organise your fridge for summer! Your food (and your wallet) will thank you for it.

It’s July, the sun is shining, and right now the only things on my radar are beaches, beer gardens, finding ways to keep my home cool and … Christmas?!

In the interiors world, and magazine world for that matter, Christmas in July is quite normal. As a journalist, I’m used to previewing baubles and tinsel in 30-degree summer heat. But this year, Christmas in July seems to be spilling into a home decor trend, and I’m not sure how I feel about it.

Is July too early to start thinking about Christmas? Is thinking about the festivities now proof of a pro planner, or is it a gimmicky excuse to spend money? The Ideal Home team is split - and we need you to help us decide.

'It's good for bargain hunters'

As someone who works in media, I’m well accustomed to the concept of Christmas in July. It’s the time of year when all the brands hold previews for their A/W and Christmas collections, and while it might seem early to some, I’ve become a fan of the time it gives me to get my Christmas decorating ideas in order and start getting prepped for the festive season.

As someone with expensive taste but a small budget, starting my Christmas prep in July not only means I can spread out the expense of buying new decorations and gifts, but I can also usually buy last season's decorations at bargain prices. The best time to buy Christmas decorations on sale is in January, but there are still deals to be had in July. This year, I’ve spotted bargains at The White Company, with decorations going for under £5, and Balsam Hill is also holding massive sales on its gorgeous faux Christmas trees.

I love going all out on my decorations, so starting my Christmas planning and shopping in July is my savvy trick to make sure I can achieve that in December

'Can we not just enjoy summer?'

I’ll start by saying that I completely agree that shopping out of season is a great opportunity to snap up sale bargains that are likely to go back up in price for Christmas. I’ve also been known for starting my Christmas present shopping in the summer months because it prevents last-minute panic buying and spreads the cost of Christmas over a few months - which I know my bank balance really appreciates.

But can we stop wishing the summer away? I know it’s been a hot one, but every time I go on TikTok or Instagram, I’m bombarded with nostalgic videos yearning for Christmas and cosy season. I hate the cold, and I’m not one to wish my life away - please, can we stop?

In June, EastEnders had one of its core characters celebrate ‘half Christmas’ complete with a decorated tree and turkey dinner, and it made me feel quite unwell. I’m all for sourcing a bargain, but I’m starting to feel like I can’t escape Christmas in July, and do we really need another excuse to spend money?

If you’ve actually snapped up a festive bargain, fair play, but to me, Christmas in July is just another sales trick to make you part with your hard-earned cash.

What do you think?

When choosing a kitchen colour scheme, it's often challenging to strike the right balance between trendy and timeless. Seeking inspiration from the latest kitchen trends is a sure-fire way to curate a beautiful scheme, but what if your chosen shade doesn't stand the test of time?

I've spoken to kitchen pros on the best ways to combine style and longevity, by understanding what the most future-proof kitchen colours are in 2026.

Timeless doesn't mean you have to play it safe — these three colour schemes will inspire a fresh new look that will also last.

1. Soft, earthy hues

Green has always been a popular kitchen colour scheme, but variations of the shade come in and out of trend. To ensure that the colour is future-proof rather than a fleeting moment, opting for an earthy undertone will help to ground the space.

'When you're investing in a new kitchen, it's worth choosing colours you'll love for years to come rather than following a trend that might quickly date. Soft, earthy shades like mushroom, greige, olive green and warm neutrals are all great options because they're easy to live with and work with different worktops, flooring and finishes,' explains Ntola Obazee, brand director, Kutchenhaus.

'These timeless colours give you the flexibility to update your kitchen look over time without replacing the cabinetry. Swapping out handles, pendant lighting, or even bar stools can give the space a whole new feel,' Ntola adds.

2. Pale pink

Pale pink once felt like an 'out there' choice for a kitchen, but it's quickly become its own form of neutral. Once reserved for bedrooms, the soft nature of this shade acts as an alternative to cream while adding a bit more of a playful touch.

'Pink continues to be a popular choice for kitchens, proving that it is far from a passing trend. According to our recent market research, consumers continue to gravitate towards pale pink shades as a sophisticated alternative to traditional neutrals such as beige and grey. These softer tones provide the same sense of versatility while introducing a subtle warmth and individuality that helps create a more inviting living space,' says Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymous kitchen brand.

3. Warm neutrals

A simple way to future-proof your kitchen is to opt for a neutral colour scheme that offers a simple but effective look.

'Choosing lighter kitchen shades, such as creams, whites, or muted pastels, can help reflect light around the room rather than absorb it, as darker kitchen colours often do. These lighter hues create a timeless and airy aesthetic, making them ideal for smaller or dimly lit spaces where maximising natural light is essential,' explains Massimo Buster Minale, founder and creative director of Buster + Punch.

With a more neutral colour scheme, the visual interest will come from the smaller touches, such as hardware, lighting and decorative touches.

'It's important to introduce contrast through different textures and finishes, as an all-light colour scheme can sometimes feel sterile or lacking in depth. Adding elements like knurled textures and metallic finishes completes the overall design,' Massimo adds.

If a kitchen renovation isn't on the cards then there are still ways to incorporate colour into your kitchen scheme - these tricks to adding colour without repainting will get you started.

One of my biggest bugbears when it comes to my driveway is how easily it can go from looking nice and neat to an absolute mess.

I have a part tarmac and part gravel driveway, and it does have it's positives in that it provides an additional off-road parking space, is good for security, and is inexpensive to replenish when it needs it. But the gravel goes everywhere. Whenever it's parked on, the gravel moves around, and I feel like I'm constantly sweeping loose gravel from the public path back on to the driveway to keep things looking neat.

But after spotting my neighbour's new gravel driveway, that doesn't seem to move a muscle even when it's parked on, I was curious as to hers seemed so much lower maintenance than mine. So she told me her secret — gravel grids.

While my gravel sits on top of a weed membrane, like this heavy duty version from Amazon (£25 for 50m), it has no method of containment. Combine that with the fact my driveway is sloped, if it's not a parked car it's foot traffic across the gravel that makes it move around. It's a bit of a downside of this particular driveway material.

Conversely, my neighbour's gravel sits neatly in a gravel grid, meaning it doesn't move around, even when she's driving over it. There's also enough gravel on her driveway that you can't see the grid, so on the face of it, it' just looks like a beautiful, and tidy, driveway. My dream.

Gravel grids work by interlocking grids that form a sort of egg-box structure. Once they are installed, you apply the gravel over the top and manoeuvre it into the holes made by the grid. This prevents the gravel from moving around, keeping it in place. If you use enough gravel, the grids are invisible.

Once finished, the driveway is strong enough to be walked and driven on, and the gravel will stay put.

While I'd previously looked into resurfacing my driveway (I love the look of a resin driveway, but it's not the most affordable option). So now I'm in research mode as to how much it would cost to install something like this on my own driveway.

First I'll get quotes from local driveway companies, then I'll look into how feasible it would be to do on a DIY basis. But as I'd need to remove all of the existing gravel, ensure the base is level before installing a new weed membrane, the gravel grids (which may need to be cut to size), and then the gravel, it may be best that I leave it to a professional.

Knowing how to water roses in hot weather can be the difference between them surviving the heatwave and not – so I spoke to the experts to find out exactly what I needed to do (and where I was going wrong) to ensure that my precious roses make it through.

Understanding how to water roses in hot weather is an essential part of growing roses, and thankfully, established roses are surprisingly drought-tolerant plants – it's one of the reasons I love them. However, heatwaves test even the hardiest roses, so getting your plan in place is vital to keeping your roses blooming all summer long.

1. Reduce frequency and increase quantity of watering

I always thought that the best way to water roses in hot weather was to water every day – even though I rarely managed it! So I was delighted to find out that I didn't need to feel guilty about not picking up the watering can every day – in fact, my lack of a daily watering schedule was actually better for my roses.

'Roses are relatively deep-rooting plants, so for well-established plants, roses should be okay on their own without needing lots of additional watering, as they will root down to the water table,' says Oliver Goold, sixth-generation rose grower at Henry Street Nursery.

'If you water roses in the ground with a little bit of water every day, you encourage the roots to rise to the surface to take in the little bit of water they are given on the surface and won’t send as many roots deep down into the ground, which is needed for long-term success of the plant.'

During prolonged periods of hot and dry weather, even drought-tolerant roses require a little extra help. Aim to drench your roses once or twice a week thoroughly.

2. Watering young roses correctly will set you up for success

Younger roses benefit from more regular watering throughout summer – even if there isn't a heatwave on the horizon, but again, the key is to use lots of water less frequently.

This advice was particularly important for the bare-root roses that I planted in my £20 rose garden at the start of the year.

'Water once or twice a week and aim to use between half to a full watering can of water per rose. This water will settle through the soil profile and encourage the roses to root deep down in the soil to reach the water table,' says Oliver Goold.

Make life easier by investing in a larger watering can – like this 13ltr plastic watering can from B&Q.

Training your young roses to rely on water from the water table rather than your watering will make them more self-sufficient, so they won't struggle if you go away for a fortnight in the summer.

3. Water the base of the rose in the morning to avoid disease

Time of day is also important when watering roses in hot weather.

'It is best to water roses in hot weather earlier in the day, so plants can take up moisture before the heat builds, and leaves have time to dry, further reducing disease risk,' says experts from Harkness Roses.

'Always water the soil at the base of the rose, not the leaves. Keeping foliage dry helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases in roses, especially when plants are stressed by heat.'

4. Employ the use of mulch

I can't sing the praises of mulch enough! It's been a game-changer – not only for my garden's soil health, but also because it meant that my garden hasn't really suffered in the most recent heatwave (even when it wasn't watered for over a week while I was on holiday!).

Roses particularly welcome a layer of mulch – like this Peat Free Manure from B&Q – as it keeps water in the soil.

'Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch (like compost or well-rotted manure) around the base, keeping it a few centimetres from the stem. Mulch helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature, protecting roots and reducing how often you need to water,' says experts from Harkness Roses.

Our Senior Digital Editor, Jenny McFarlane swears by RocketGro's Magic Mulch 'I'm worrying less about watering my plants in hot weather because the compost and soil are staying moist for longer. RocketGro's Magic Mulch is available for just £14.84 on Amazon

5. Water potted roses daily

Potted roses require much more attention than those in the soil, as their water reserves are much more limited than those in the borders.

'Water potted roses daily and make sure the whole pot is saturated, as roses will flower most when given plenty of water,' says Oliver Goold. 'Fertilising roses is particularly important for those in pots. Use a liquid food like a rose tree & shrub or tomato feed, as when watering a lot, you wash a lot of the nutrients out of the soil, meaning the roses, while well watered, can start to become hungry.'

Amazon stocks a range of rose tree and shrub feeds – like this Miracle-Gro feed – and tomato feed – including the favourite Tomatorite. You could even make your own rose fertiliser.

'If growing in pots, use a soil-based compost such as John Innes No.3 as it's far more water absorbent than multi-purpose compost,' adds Stewart Pocock, owner at Pococks Roses. John Innes No.3 is available to buy on Amazon.

Home decorator and content creator Grace H is one of Ideal Home's new Open House contributors, sharing her thoughts on colourful home design, mixing vintage pieces with new and making personality-filled spaces. See the rest of her articles here.

Designing a bathroom from scratch is one of the most rewarding yet challenging things you can do – not to mention costing an absolute fortune if, like me, you have expensive tastes without the bank balance to back them up.

Our bathroom is teeny-tiny (less than 2m x 2m), and during the renovation, I made a few... controversial design choices. Everyone warned me against my decisions, but by thinking outside the box, we created our dream space. If you're currently planning a remodel, I hope our deep dive inspires you to trust your gut, even when everyone else thinks you've lost it.

1. The great tile rebellion

The default setting for most bathrooms is tiles everywhere. But after inheriting a sterile, cold room with floor-to-ceiling white tiles, I knew I wanted something different. I wanted something softer, warmer, and less... well, "bathroomy."

Initially, I pictured tongue-and-groove panelling on the lower half of the walls with wallpaper on top. However, my other half quickly vetoed the wallpaper, worrying that poor ventilation in such a small space would cause it to peel. After a brief sulk, I moved on to Plan B: a full, dramatic colour drench.

When I pitched the panelling idea to friends and family, the skepticism flooded in. Because we have a shower over the bath, everyone was convinced the wood would get wet, warp, and be ruined in a flash. My secret weapon? A vintage-inspired, wrap-around shower curtain. I reasoned that it would contain the water, while a good extractor fan would handle the humidity.

My dad was entirely unconvinced, uttering the fateful words:

“I’m telling you now, you’ll regret it.”

Do you know what? I don't.

2. The shower curtain logic

My theory worked perfectly. A year and a half later, the tongue-and-groove is still in mint condition. We installed a Victorian-style, wrap-around shower pole suspended from the ceiling. On the outside sits a decorative, waterproof striped curtain to add character and charm; on the inside, two liners keep the water in the bath.

It doesn’t feel claustrophobic at all, and no, the curtain doesn’t cling to you while you wash. It’s actually incredibly spacious, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

2. Re-thinking the storage formula

The obvious way to add storage to a small bathroom is to install a vanity unit to hide away ugly toiletries. That was our original plan, and we even had a custom unit made. But once it was in the room, it looked incredibly chunky and made the space feel half its size. (The failed vanity has since found a second life as a bar cart downstairs!)

Instead, we decided to build a bespoke cabinet to sit on the ledge running along the sink and toilet wall. But this presented a new problem: if a massive cupboard was occupying the wall, where would the shower head go?

Showers don’t have to be wall-mounted

Back on went my thinking cap. I started researching ceiling-mounted shower heads and found they are surprisingly easy to source. After a quick explanation and some random scribbles on scrap paper, my brother-in-law extraordinaire – who was fitting the bathroom for us – made it a reality. Leaving the wall free of shower plumbing meant my storage dreams could finally come true.

Sinks matter

With storage sorted, we could keep the sink super simple. We chose a period-inspired pedestal sink with an integrated towel rail to keep things neat. Getting rid of a boxy floor unit meant you could see more of the floor, creating the optical illusion of a much larger room.

3. The pink bath of my dreams

Once the shower situation was resolved, I finally realised my childhood dream of owning a freestanding bath. It’s not the obvious choice for a tiny room, and because I wanted it painted in a bold pop of colour, the naysayers returned. I was told it was a terrible idea and that the paint would chip instantly.

By this point, you might notice a theme: I didn't listen. Today, there isn’t a single chip or flake of paint in sight. It looks just as vibrant as the day it was painted.

4. Making a small bathroom even smaller

In a move that defied all logic, we actually brought our walls inward to hide a concealed toilet cistern. We also squared off the external window wall to allow for a deeper windowsill. My dad’s voice was ringing in my ears once again: “Who makes a small bathroom even smaller?!”

But I knew in my gut it would look more streamlined. Zero regrets! We now have two highly usable ledges (the windowsill and the ledge running across the toilet wall) that weren’t there before. They are the perfect perch for everyday essentials like toothbrushes and room spray, and even the occasional bunch of fresh flowers.

5. Saving on walls, splurging on floors

Because we saved so much money by skipping wall tiles, we had room left in the budget to spend on the floor. It was love at first sight when I found our statement floor tiles online, and the entire colour scheme of the bathroom ended up being based around them.

If you’re reading this and thinking you need to reign in your own design ideas to play it safe, take a second look at your plans. You might just find that the conventional choices are the crazy ones after all. The Moral of the Story

Trust your gut and don't be afraid to deviate from the standard manual. So many people made me question whether I was delusional or whether my ideas were even physically possible. It turns out they were – I just wasn't doing things the conventional way.

Traditionally, children’s playrooms have been contained in dedicated rooms in the majority of family homes. But things are changing and modern families embrace alternative approaches – so should you have a playroom? Or is it no longer a necessity or even the go-to approach?

I asked three interior designers to see what their top recommendations when it comes to separate playroom ideas would be – and what most parents choose to go for these days. It turns out that separate playrooms are becoming increasingly rare as families choose to create play corners and areas within shared spaces like a family living room.

Like most things, even dedicated playrooms have their pros and cons – and the interior experts shed a light on both to help you decide whether a playroom is the right choice for you and your family. Or should you adopt an alternative approach?

Pros of a dedicated playroom

Children have a lot of toys and they can get pretty messy, especially without the right toy storage ideas. Having a separate playroom can contain all of their toys and mess within that one room without spilling into the other areas of your home.

‘A dedicated space for clutter and toys where the children can feel comfortable to relax and play without potentially damaging any other areas in the house is a huge plus,’ says Francesca Leat, owner, director and head designer at Francesca Leat Interiors.

Emma Deterding, founder and creative director at Kelling Designs, agrees, ‘The joy of having a playroom is that it gives children a safe, stimulating environment to explore and play independently and it helps contain toys, arts and crafts from the rest of your home.’

Cons of a dedicated playroom

On the flip side, the downsides of a playroom are that they can accumulate unnecessary mess and clutter and they can make it more difficult for parents to keep an eye on younger children.

In fact, many children prefer to play in closer proximity to their parents and other adults that are around so that alone can make the idea of a dedicated playroom somewhat redundant.

‘A separate room can be underused if the kids like to stay close to their parents. And as children grow, the room often needs repurposing. It can also encourage an accumulation of toys that often aren't cleared out, making organisation more of a challenge,’ Emma at Kelling Designs explains.

Francesca Leat adds, ‘One of the cons would be that it may result in seeing less of your children from time to time or if you have younger children it can be challenging to keep an eye on them. Playrooms as standalone spaces perhaps work better for older or teenage children as somewhere to watch TV or focus on arts and crafts.’

What’s the best alternative to a playroom?

Of course, not every home has a spare room that can be dedicated to a playroom. But Jo Lane, founder of online interior design service See Your Place, finds that this isn’t necessarily the number one reason why most parents these days choose to forgo a traditional playroom in favour of a play area in a shared room like an open-plan living room or even the kitchen.

‘Most families tend to opt for a play area within a living room space rather than a separate playroom. This isn’t always driven by space limitations – often people do have two or three separate reception rooms, but make a conscious choice to incorporate play within their most used lounge room.'

'This is because children naturally tend to want to spend time with their adult carers in whichever space the adults are in and play alongside them. And more people seem to favour creating two separate spaces for the whole family to relax in together at different times of the day,’ she explains.

Emma at Kelling Designs also recommends incorporating a play area into shared space of the home, ‘There can be pressure to create a whole dedicated room, but I advise creating a play space instead if space allows.'

'Creating a play area in a family space or even using flexible furniture that can transition between play and everyday life can work really well. This is what we're seeing more often in modern family homes, especially as homes become more compact.'

'It's also a great way to keep children in sight while maintaining a balanced home that works for the entire family.’

But in order to pull this off, you’ll need to incorporate great storage, especially hidden toy storage ideas, and multifunctional pieces of furniture that also look good in a shared family space, much like these.

My top picks for a play area

Are you team dedicated playrooms? Or are you also leaning towards creating a play area within a shared living space?