This interview first appeared in the September 2026 issue of Ideal Home magazine.

Vogue lives in London with her husband Spencer Matthews, their three children – with a fourth on the way – and their dog, Bertie. They also have a second home in Dublin, Ireland. When she's not co-hosting Renovation Rescue on Channel 4, she has also designed a range of sofas and armchairs with Sterling Home and a collection of rugs with Kukoon.

Buy Vogue's style – invest in one of her co-designed pieces

IN THE HOT SEAT

• Shoes on or off? I would say shoes off. But I’m not terrible for making people take their shoes off.
• Eat at the table or on laps? At the dinner table.
• Lighting – bright or moody? Moody lighting, definitely. And lots of it, at different points of the room.
• Quick shower or long bath? Quick shower.
• Colourful or neutral? I think a mix of both, to be honest.
• Neat or creative chaos? I love for things to be neat, tidy and organised.
• Music, radio, TV, or quiet? If I get the house to myself, I’d always just sit in silence.

Watch Vogue as the new co-host of Renovation Rescue Series 2 on Channel 4.

Yes, I know, it's summer, and depending on where you live in the UK, you may be recovering from yet another heatwave.

However, bedding trends wait for no man, woman, or well-dressed bedroom, and pumpkin bedding is already having a moment.

Plus, Next has just quietly dropped a pumpkin bedding set that I think will soon be an instant sell-out, so if you want to get your hands on this autumn-themed duvet set before it disappears, you may need to move fast.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years immersed in the world of bedrooms, and when it comes to where to buy bedding, Next is always one of my top recommendations.

Plus, in recent years, the brand has absolutely nailed the most sought-after bedding trends.

Last Christmas, Next launched its Robin Fleece Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set, which quickly went viral and became one of the most-shopped bedding collections of the year.

That winter-themed bedding set featured robins leaving footsteps on a snowy fleece duvet cover, and I predict the brand's new pumpkin-themed bedding is going to follow its lead and become an instant autumn bestseller.

In fact, with 'pumpkin bedding' searches already spiking on Google, I don't think it will be long before this trending bedding set starts selling out.

Not least because Next has nailed the double autumnal whammy with this design.

There are smiley-faced pumpkins embroidered onto the duvet cover, but to up the cuteness factor even further, the brand has also stitched that autumnal favourite – the now iconic pumpkin-spiced latte – to the surface.

And did I mention this duvet set also features a gingham background (still one of the biggest bedding trends of the year) *and* is made from super snuggly and cosy brushed cotton?

To my mind, this duvet cover and pillowcase set nails everything you might want in an autumn bedding set, and what's more, there's a whole collection of coordinating items available.

Personally, I think the £125 pumpkin-spiced latte-shaped side table may be a step too far, but the rest of the collection is *far* more stylish! And it means you can choose whether your nod to the cosy season is subtle or as OTT as you like.

I'm generally not a Halloween lover, but I have to admit, even I'm tempted by this autumn-themed collection and its understated Halloween-ish vibes.

After all, considering how long and hot it feels like this summer has been, for the first time in a long time, I'm actually looking forward to the change in season.

Some cooler weather, cosy bedding, and a pumpkin-spiced latte sounds like something I could definitely get behind right now!

Art shouldn’t be reserved for galleries and the homes of the rich and famous. And that’s exactly why IKEA’s releasing a limited edition collection of art objects with prices starting from just £19 in order to make art accessible to everyone. The IKEA KONSTRUNDA collection is launching on 1st September both online and in stores – and I’m already planning on elevating my home with a few of the featured pieces.

IKEA’s been killing it lately with imaginative and design-forward collections, from the viral IKEA PS 2026 collection filled with future design classics like the PS 2026 floor lamp to the clever and compact IKEA KOMPISHÄNG range which launched only a few weeks ago. But the IKEA KONSTRUNDA range takes things even further as it focuses purely on the aesthetic value of the 22 objects created by seven different designers and artists.

‘Art should be available for all to enjoy, not a luxury reserved for galleries,’ says Karin Gustavsson, the collection’s creative leader. ‘Art evokes emotion, sparks conversation and helps transform a house into a home. With KONSTRUNDA, we wanted to create a collection that encourages people to express themselves and surround themselves with objects they love.’

Art can make your home look more expensive and considered. But it usually comes at a rather high price. But that’s not the case with the IKEA KONSTRUNDA art objects and creative pieces of furniture and soft furnishings.

Named after the Swedish word for ‘art tour’, the KONSTRUNDA range includes both purely ‘decorative’ objects and more practical pieces of furniture with a playful design - like stools and side tables - as well as soft furnishings like cushions and rugs, which can also be turned into wall hangings.

My top IKEA KONSTRUNDA picks

Of course, you don’t have to wait for the 1st September to inject some artistic flair into your home without breaking the bank. Here are a few pieces that will make your home look more interesting and intentional that are available to shop now.

Which piece (or pieces) are you planning to adorn your home with once the new collection drops? Don't forget to mark your calendars to avoid missing out.

There's nothing that screams autumn more than a warm, spicy candle. And whether you already have a collection that's getting dusty somewhere (it adds to the spookiness!), or you've been online shopping for some pumpkin-spiced scents but don't want to spend a fortune, all you really need to do is head to your local Aldi.

Yes, the summerween stock has started littering itself across the shelves. And I'm totally here for it. Aldi's autumn-scented candles landed in store this week and they are returning sellout Specialbuys that went viral last year, so act fast if you want to get your hands on one. They're nice and affordable — so perfect for your Boo Basket. We're just thinking ahead here.

As we know with all Aldi Specialbuys, when they're OOS, they're gone. So don't miss your chance to smell (and inevitably snap up) a spicy candle from just £2.69. And as someone who used to test home fragrances for a living, I just know that these beauties will turn Aldi's middle aisle into a ghost town.

Not only are they all pretty, but this candle range comes in several scent choices, so there's something for everyone. Whether you love a warm scent or prefer to go for something subtle, it's all here.

I'll be sure to grab a few of these for everyday lighting come October, but as far as my special autumn candles go (you know, the ones you only light when guests are coming over), I've got a few skeletons hiding in my (candle) closet.

I absolutely love The White Company's Fireside Candle, which is perfectly woody and will also last you into the Christmas season. I'm also a big fan of Nest New York Fragrances, and their orange Pumpkin Chai candle, available on Cult Beautywon't disappoint even the fussiest of noses.

It's safe to say that I'm excited for autumn!

I've spotted Ninja's new slimmed down coffee machine, the Luxe Café Mini, is on sale for £399 via Amazon – £100 less than its RRP.

After testing the entirety of Ninja's coffee machine range, the Luxe Café Mini just became my new favourite bean-to-cup coffee machine from the brand after testing it, which is why this sale price is worth shouting about.

For me, the best thing about the Mini is that it solves one of the principal issues with the Luxe Café – it's ungainly size – with flair. And it does it without losing any of what makes the full size OG Luxe Café great. Here's a closer look at this deal on this wonderfully compact machine you don't want to miss.

As I covered in my first look at this machine, its RRP is set at £499.99. Notably, it's the first bean-to-cup machine from Ninja that's come out at under the £500 mark and hasn't been subject to any discounts yet - which is why this Amazon listing for £100 less is definitely worth a look.

The larger Luxe Café will set you back £549 at full-price, though you can often find it available for far less during sales periods – the best price it's dropped to according to CamelCamelCamel is £404.

If you can snag it for the £399 price, I can't recommend the Mini enough. It's smaller in every dimension – 7cm narrower, 2.9cm shorter and 2.7kg lighter than the orignal – and will suit most kitchens much better size-wise. When I talk about investing in a coffee maker with my friends and family the huge size of most machines is a massively limiting factor.

It has the features that the majority of people are looking for in a coffee machine too. It has Barista Assist tech, which helps you figure out the best grind size for your chosen beans, and the automatic milk frother means you can enjoy café-style lattes at home. With this machine, you'll be saving a pretty penny on trips to a coffee shop for years to come.

There are a few things missing from the Mini that real coffee pros might miss. There's no cold brew capability or cold milk foam – so homemade iced lattes with proper foamed milk are out. And as the machine is smaller, it has a minimised water tank and bean hopper so you'll be refilling those more often if you're getting a lot of use out of this machine.

For most people I think these won't be hugely limiting factors. If you live in a 1 or 2 person household, this exceptionally compact and capable machine will be a total joy to use. And at under £400, it's a total steal given its quality. My full review of this machine is coming very soon but if you're already sold, this is the best price I've seen to buy it at!

My kitchen isn't my dream kitchen. For a family of five, it's relatively small, storage is limited and most days I feel like I'm constantly fighting the clutter. While I'd love to one day bring my kitchen Pinterest boards to life, at the moment practicality wins over aesthetics.

Having a small kitchen has meant getting creative when it comes to kitchen storage ideas and keeping clutter (and my sanity) in check. While I have made some changes over the years - including adding a breakfast bar, replacing the kitchen worktops and painting the kitchen cabinets - there have been a handful of things that have genuinely made everyday family life easier.

Surprisingly, I've found that it's often the smaller, more practical things that have made the biggest difference. So, here are the four features in my kitchen that I think are worth it, and I'd happily choose again if I were starting from scratch.

1. An air fryer that's become my mealtime saviour

Hands-down, having an air fryer is the one thing that's made the biggest difference to my kitchen. I'm not ashamed to admit that I regularly wonder what I did without one. With three hungry (not to mention often impatient) mouths to feed, I rely on it daily for making sure everyone gets fed quickly.

It's quick, convenient and when it comes to the air fryer vs oven debate, I'm firmly team oven. Not having to use the oven as often is something of a priority right now with a very curious one-year-old who wants to touch everything (IYKYK), so it gives me peace of mind knowing the air fryer is out of her reach.

2. A breakfast bar that the kids actually use

One of the changes we did make to our kitchen when we upgraded our worktops a few years ago, was to add a breakfast bar, which worked well with the space that we have.

Despite having a perfectly lovely dining table the kids will always choose to sit at the breakfast bar. I think they prefer being right in the middle of the action, and if you ask them they'll say sitting at the bar stools is way more fun.

The breakfast bar is also much easier to wipe down after breakfast, snacks or a messy meal, and it's quicker and easier than having to clean and re-set the dining table too. While a kitchen island is still on my wish-list, for now I'll happily settle for a breakfast bar - it's functional, practical and makes good use of the space we have.

3. A storage trolley that frees up cabinet space

With a small kitchen comes limited storage space. Having to store food, crockery and appliances to accommodate a family of five has meant I've had to get creative about where everything lives.

My cabinets are full to the brim, so one of the simplest storage solutions I've used has been to add a storage trolley to store extra bits and bobs that don't have a permanent home.

Mine is this RÅSKOG trolley from IKEA, which slots neatly at the side of my dining table. It also has wheels so it doesn't feel like I've sacrificed precious floor space, as I can easily move it around if I need to. I've used it to store the kids' lunchboxes and random Tupperware, as well as dry ingredients like flour and pasta.

4. Practical food storage solutions

With three children, I've accepted that a picture-perfect kitchen isn't realistic right now, but I've found a few simple storage kitchen solutions can make a noticeable difference to how how organised my kitchen feels - and how independently the kids can use it.

Things like decanting the cereal into nice-looking storage jars that I can line up on my worktops, not only makes it look less cluttered, it also means my older two children can help themselves at breakfast time. I also use storage for other dry ingredients, such as pasta and spaghetti, which makes it easier to see what I have at a glance.

Similarly, I use clear, storage boxes on every shelf in my fridge, to make it easier to see what I'm looking for, rather than rummaging around for ingredients when mealtimes are already chaotic. I keep the kids fruit in smaller containers, which is something they can help themselves too - one less thing for me to do.

These are small changes, but anything that helps to keep me organised and gives the kids a little more independence is a win in my eyes.

These are all things that stand out as making family life easier in my kitchen. I'm always on the lookout for new ideas and hacks to try, though, so watch this space!

It turns out that Nigella Lawson's enthusiasm for cooking never takes a backseat – even during her summer holidays. Set to star as a new judge in the upcoming series of The Great British Bake Off this autumn, the chef and cookbook author has been detailing the cooking essentials she can't bear to part from, especially when making do in an unfamiliar holiday kitchen.

From her eventual conversion to using one of the best air fryers to the rice cooker she recommends as the ultimate foodie gift, Nigella has long been a source of inspiration for our kitchen buying decisions here at Ideal Home.

Now, writing in the Financial Times this weekend, comes Nigella's admission that she takes not one, but two Microplane graterson her travels with her, alongside a host of other cooking gadgets. Here's why she's so attached to this specialist cooking must-have (and why the Ideal Home team love it too!).

Nigella's holiday essential

It seems that Nigella's trusty pair of Microplanes (which, for the uninitiated, is a brand seen as the gold standard for grating in kitchens) are never far from her side, even when she's meant to be taking a relaxing break.

She admits that while she 'really should only take one Microplane grater' on her travels, she's fallen into the habit of taking multiple. Nigella says she uses 'two, both fine, one of which I use for garlic and ginger; the other one for zesting lemons'.

Though I can't claim to have quite Nigella's level of all-round food wisdom, I'm a total Microplane obessesive too – I recently cited as within my top 3 kitchen essentials that I'd never part with, even after a ruthless declutter.

My preferred design right now is this Grate and Store design (£39.95 via Selfridges) as I like using the container element to store leftover shavings. I use it for garlic, ginger, cheese and for zesting lemons when I need to. It's never out of use in my house.

But Nigella's insistence on a finer lemon zest, which means she probably uses the brand's dedicated professional tool (£32 at Amazon), has me thinking that I might need to upgrade to a finer companion version too.

The difference between my grater and the brand's tailor-made zester is that is has more packed in 'teeth' on its textured side for taking the outermost layer off a lemon, essential for not hitting the bitter white pith underneath. This more delicate tool is better for achieving a restaurant result when zesting – which explains why Nigella simply can't choose between the two tools when she's packing her bags to go away.

I'm not the only member of the Ideal Home team to have joined the cult-following that Microplane tends to amass. Both our Digital Editor Rebecca Knight and Print Editor Ginevra Benedetti swear that a Microplane is worth it. Ginevra picked hers up over 9 years ago while on Holiday in Washington at Dean & DeLuca, and Rebecca has the handheld version and the Microplane mixing bowl grater (£26 at Amazon).

The other essentials that Nigella insists on accompanying her on her travels? She lists a 'small Oxo handheld mandoline' (like this one from Amazon for £16.50) as her next must-have, sensibly paired with a pair of cut-resistant gloves.

The final must-have? A garlic peeling tube (which you can pick up on Amazon for just £6, by Joseph Joseph) which allows you to peel a bulb without getting any garlicky residue on your fingers.

While plenty of people prefer the laid-back style of an all-inclusive, Nigella's taking quite the treasure trove of cooking gadgets with her instead, which is just what you'd imagine for such a obsessed writer. I for one can't wait for the return of Bake Off to our screens for even more inspiration from the nation's favourite TV chef!

Between hot heatwave nights and long daylight hours, the peak of summer can be a difficult time to get a good night's sleep.

But did you know that something as simple as your bedroom mirror could be disrupting your rest too? Yep, when it comes to how to sleep better, experts say there could be a hidden sleep thief lurking in your bedroom.

This is why your bedroom mirror is wrecking your sleep, and how to fix it for a better night's kip.

Why your bedroom mirror is wrecking your sleep

'In peak summer, it can be increasingly difficult to keep our bedrooms cool at night and get the good night’s sleep we need,' says Hannah Shore, head of sleep science at sleep retailer Mattress Online. And, your mirror may be adding to your sleep problems.

'Depending on which way your room is facing, you may find that the sunlight reflects off your mirror throughout the day,' says Hannah, 'making your room even hotter than it needs to be. This residual heat could then stay within your room as you are trying to sleep.'

Plus, it isn't just practical problems that poorly thought-out bedroom mirror ideas can pose. There are psychological factors at play, too, as Alexandra Berthault, a feng shui expert at Chez Holistics and a board member of the Feng Shui Society UK, explains.

If you can see your bedroom mirror from your bed, then 'unexpected reflections in low light can momentarily alert the brain, making it harder to relax fully,' explains Alexandra. 'Many people find that seeing movement or reflections during the night creates a subtle sense of unease.'

'A mirror facing the bed reflects you as you sleep, and many people report an instinctive discomfort with seeing themselves, or shadowy shapes, reflected back at them in the dark,' says Alexandra. 'That subtle unease alone can be enough to keep the nervous system on alert instead of settling into deep rest.'

'Your mirror shouldn’t reflect your bed,' agrees Hannah. 'Personally, if I see something move in the mirror, it can make me jump and feel slightly on edge, which then prevents me from falling asleep as easily. By placing the mirror so it doesn’t face the bed, we avoid any reflected light or movement that may disrupt us as we fall asleep.'

Plus, a bedroom mirror can also have more subtle impacts. 'In feng shui, the bedroom is considered a yin space, a place of rest, stillness, and restoration,' explains Alexandra. In contrast, 'mirrors are considered active features because they reflect, redirect, and amplify light, movement, and Qi (or energy). In a room intended for rest, this activity can create a more stimulating environment than is ideal.'

However, as Alexandra explains, 'mirrors are also one of the most powerful tools in feng shui. They reflect light, expand small spaces, and can even redirect the flow of qi through a home.'

So if you want to increase the amount of light in your bedroom, create the illusion of a bigger space with some small bedroom mirror ideas, or simply want to be able to see whether you've put your top on back to front or not in the morning, a mirror can be a bedroom essential.

Luckily, our experts say there's no need to ditch your bedroom mirror completely. Instead, it's all about knowing where *not* to hang a bedroom mirror to protect your sleep, and where *to* position a mirror for a better night's rest.

Where you shouldn't hang a mirror in the bedroom

'Not all mirror placements are created equal,' says Alexandra. A few spots are considered especially disruptive:

• Facing the bed directly. 'This is the classic feng shui no-go,' explains Alexandra. 'Whether it's a full-length mirror, a mirrored closet door, or a dresser mirror, if it reflects you lying down, it's considered the most disturbing placement of all.'
• Reflecting the bed from the side, at an angle you catch when waking or turning over. 'Even indirect reflections can register subconsciously and disrupt that sense of calm,' Alexandra explains.
• Opposite a window that gets full sun. 'Ensure your mirror is facing away from the window or that curtains are drawn throughout the day to reduce the amount of sunlight hitting the mirror,' says Hannah, 'especially in hot summer weather.'
• Directly opposite the bedroom door. 'A mirror facing the entrance is thought to bounce incoming qi straight back out of the room before it has a chance to circulate and nourish the space,' says Alexandra.

How to hang a mirror in the bedroom the right way

However, 'none of this means mirrors are off-limits in the bedroom altogether,' reassures Alexandra, 'it's really about intention and placement.' These are a few guidelines to work with:

• Position the mirror so it doesn't reflect the bed. 'The safest approach is to hang the mirror on a wall perpendicular to the bed, rather than facing or behind it,' advises Alexandra. 'This way it still does its job, reflecting light, opening up the room, without doubling your sleeping back at you.'
• Keep it away from the door's direct line. 'Angle or place mirrors so they don't sit in a straight line with the bedroom door,' says Alexandra. 'This allows qi to circulate through the room instead of bouncing straight back out.'
• Consider what the mirror reflects. 'Ideally, your mirror should reflect plants, artworks, and clean open spaces,' says Hannah. 'A well-placed mirror should reflect something pleasant,' agrees Alexandra, 'a piece of art, natural light, anything which helps keep the room's energy soft and supportive.'
• Choose a frame that feels cosy, not clinical. Also, consider the type of bedroom mirror you opt for. 'Choose a mirror that feels proportionate to the room rather than one that dominates the space,' advises Alexandra.
• Cover the mirror at night if it can't be moved. And lastly, 'if a mirror simply has to face the bed due to room layout, a cloth, curtain, or screen you can draw closed at bedtime is a practical fix that lets you use the mirror by day without the nighttime disturbance,' says Alexandra.

As Alexandra sums up, 'a mirror is neither good nor bad in itself. In Feng Shui, its effect depends entirely on where it is placed and what it reflects. Small adjustments often have a surprisingly positive impact... creating environments that genuinely support our wellbeing.'

'When positioned thoughtfully, a mirror can enhance light and create a sense of space without disturbing the calm atmosphere that every bedroom should provide,' says Alexandra.

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of modular sofas. So when a new design launches, I pay attention – especially when it’s from one of the best sofa brands that also makes excellent modular sofas. When I first saw the John Lewis Elara modular sofa at the brand’s autumn/winter 2026 press preview, I immediately fell in love.

Investing in one of the best modular sofas is becoming more popular, as John Lewis reports that sales of their modular sofas have increased by 220% over the last three years. I rate the retailer’s Flow and Tokyo modular sofas very highly – but even David Barrett, head of home design at John Lewis, says that the new Elara modular sofa is even more special.

‘Elara is fully modular and adaptable,’ David explains. ‘It differs from other John Lewis modulars through its availability in three different widths which allows almost endless configurations. The smaller modules can create a compact seating solution whereas the larger module enables you to create a grand corner group that accommodates the whole family and anything in between.’

As the Elara only just dropped on the retailer’s site, the individual modules in various widths are not yet available. But the ready-made Elara 4-seater chaise-end sofa, which sells for £4199 and can be with you within seven days, includes and shows the different seat widths.

Aside from this default ready-made option, the Elara sofa is available in 80 fabrics to choose from, several of which I got to see at the brand’s press showcase. If you go for the made-to-order option, the lead time is eight weeks.

But aside from the various widths available, there are other things to love about the Elara sofa, too. Generously sized and deep-seated sofas have been rising in popularity this year as we all value comfort above all else. And this sofa ticks those boxes – so much so that I’d say it’s not the most small living room-friendly, however, it makes for the perfect open-plan living room idea.

‘The Elara is a stunning centerpiece that looks flawless from every angle, making it the ultimate choice for open-plan living. Its relaxed seating and loose back cushions provide unparalleled, everyday comfort,’ David at John Lewis says. And I can attest to that as I was so comfortable when trying the sofa IRL that I didn’t want to get up at all.

The curvaceous shape of the sofa is another one of its benefits and aesthetically pleasing features which was inspired by Scandinavian design. ‘The Elara sofa brings our AW26 creative vision to life, combining Scandinavian design inspiration with insights gathered during Copenhagen Design Week,’ David confirms.

Last year, the retailer impressed me with the showstopping John Lewis Pleat sofa design. But this year, it’s all about the Elara modular sofa for me.

Amidst the chaos of moving home this month, the one spot in my new flat I focused on setting up first was my pantry. I've never had one dedicated spot for all of my store cupboard essentials, as well as containers and gadgets, and I couldn't wait to get stuck in.

While I'm still getting to grips with exactly how to best lay out the cupboard, the one thing that's helped massively to visually separate the space has been my long-amassed collection of organisers.

From wire baskets to add-on hanging shelves, this is exactly how I'm storing my collection of the best cookware within my hidden pantry. So far, it's helped my kitchen stay a lot tidier than usual.

1. Wire baskets with a wooden base

One of the rules I've copied from our guide on how to organise a pantry is to 'divide and conquer'. I started with this tactic on my most used everyday essentials – cooking oils, everyday seasonings and tea and coffee. Each of these got their own basket at the most convenient height.

My exact organisers are from iDesign, available for £16.99 via Amazon. I've tried many different ones in my time but these white wire ones with lower fronts for easy access are the best I've come across. The bottom of each is covered in a solid acacia wood material so that items don't have to balance on the wire surface.

They sit in a cluster of three in my pantry but they could also be stacked vertically if you're faking a pantry within a cupboard. They're pretty enough to be seen if you don't have the space to hide things away either.

2. Kilner jars

I know I'm not reinventing the wheel here but my Kilner jars are worth every penny in my pantry. I've carved out my top shelf for my baking bits and they're a central element of keeping things tidy. Before, I would have half-used bags of flour and sugar that eventually gained holes and started to leak. Now, I have the overlarge 1 litre containers for my plain and self-raising flour as well as icing sugar and everything is nice and neat.

I prefer the screw top design of this set, for £17.99 from Lakeland, over the classic mechanism for keeping things fresh. Whatever you do, don't fall into the trap of thinking you need to decant everything in a pantry as it can be a lot more stress than its worth. One of the secrets of professional organisers for a pantry is that less decanting is sometimes more!

3. Shelf inserts

I had a lot of dead space in the lower half of my pantry when I first set it up, which is where I used two different kinds of shelf inserts to make more real estate for storage.

The first was inserts, like these from Amazon for £13.59, to create more space placed on the shelf itself. This was something roundly recommended by the rest of the Ideal Home team when we've talked before about how to organise a cupboard.

It's been very effective in allowing me to stack items both under and on the shelf as well as creating mini zones without needing to buy more organisers. My only regret right now is opting for the wire version though, as there are some items that just don't sit right due to the large gaps.

Next time I'd opt for this version from Dunelm instead (£15 for 2). They're much more pleasing on the eye and seem sturdier for stacking bulky items, too.

There are also under-shelf organisers within my pantry which I've been using to store onions, potatoes and similar. They make so much extra space! My colleague Holly swears by Joseph Joseph's to keep her kitchen tidy.

4. Stackable food containers

One of the things I was most keen to do was organise my food containers before I moved so that I could start afresh in the pantry. In doing so, I got rid of loose and mismatched ones and just kept hold of the best versions instead. The star of the show are my Black + Blum stainless steel ones in the 'lunch bowl' style (£44.95 for 3).

One of the reasons I like the Black + Blum stainless steel containers so much is that they stack so neatly for storage. I'm currently testing the brand's new Stack and Nest glass set as well to see how they measure up. They nest together just as pleasingly.

One thing I desperately need to do to make that shelf tidier is get hold of a lid organiser. They're one of those things that can really clutter up a space!

My pantry is still very much a work-in-progress for now and I'm hoping to pick up a few more organisers here and there to make it a more cohesive space. But for now, I'm loving how it streamlines my cooking process.

If you're in the market for a sofa bed, I think Habitat is *the* place to shop right now. Especially if you want a budget-friendly design that's perfect for smaller homes.

The brand has just launched a brand new collection of sofa and chair beds, and there's one design in particular that has really caught my eye.

Habitat's new 'Pillow' sofa bed costs just £235, and I think its soft and squishy look sums up one of the year's biggest furniture trends.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years testing the best sofa beds and best chair beds on the market, and in the past year, I've noticed a growing trend.

This year, 'pillow' furniture is having a moment, and thanks to its soft, squishy, and cocooning vibes, I think it's a look that's here to stay.

I first noticed this trend in the bedroom. This year's bedroom trends are all about turning the sleep space into a restful retreat; a look achieved with tactile fabrics, nurturing colours, and furniture with soft, curvaceous, and 'pillowy' shapes.

It began with headboard trends. At the start of 2026, clean lines and hard edges were very clearly on their way out, and soft, padded, and pillowy bed trends were on the way in.

The idea was to create a sleep space that felt cocooning, restful, and like somewhere you wanted to curl up and 'nest' for a while.

Now, the look has reached the world of sofa beds, and I think Habitat's new launch nails it perfectly.

The aptly named Pillow chair bed looks exactly like you might expect. It's an elevated version of Habitat's bestselling Roma chair bed, but this new Pillow version has softer corners designed to resemble a pillow.

It's a small detail, yes. But it's often the small details that elevate a piece of furniture from run-of-the-mill to understated-luxe, and I think it's definitely a hosting solution to have on your radar as a result.

And not least, because at £295 for the single chair bed, and £365 for the double, this new overnight hosting solution is a stylish option that is also far more affordable than it looks.

I've rounded up some of the alternatives on the market below, and as you'll see, Habitat's options are by *far* the most budget-friendly.

Habitat is often the first brand to adapt designer looks for the high street, and I think its new Pillow chair bed will quickly become another trendsetter.

I expect plenty more pillowy shapes to emerge on the high street in the last half of 2026 and beyond, but will they be as well-priced as this Habitat option? I doubt it.

So, if you're looking for a small-space hosting solution that wins in the comfort, style, *and* budget-friendly stakes, I certainly think this chair bed is it.

Even though it’s still the middle of the summer and temperatures are regularly climbing above 30°C, Habitat just dropped its autumn collection. Several pieces from the range are already trending, including the new Habitat Drape armchair.

The Habitat autumn/winter 2026 lookbook was released at the end of last month, confirming the trending autumn colour palette I’ve been seeing across a few different collections. But when I first laid eyes on the designer-style Drape armchair, I was expecting a price tag well over £500. So I was pleasantly surprised by the £275 price point.

Given the high-end look of this accent chair paired with the affordable price point, I’m sure it’s going to fly off the shelves very soon – especially since it’s already trending on the Habitat website. So if you like the look of this stylish chair, better snap it up now while you still can.

In many ways, the sculptural Habitat Drape armchair reminds me of the H&M Home chrome lounge chair which I named my favourite accent chair last year. The Drape chair has a similar curvaceous shape with exposed legs ‘draped’ with cushioning done in textured upholstery. But while H&M’s chair featured a then-trending chrome frame, Habitat’s chair comes with a solid oak wood frame instead.

For autumn and winter 2026, Habitat’s collection is leaning into a layered and textured look that feels cosy and comfortable. ‘For autumn/winter 2026, our design studio explores expressive, layered interiors that feel intentional and considered,’ says Nina Findley, director of product at Habitat. ‘The collection balances comfort and warmth with individuality, craftsmanship and purposeful design.’

I haven’t been able to test the Drape armchair IRL as of yet but I hope I’ll get to try it soon as the brand also praises its high comfort.

Alternatives

But while we’re on the topic of new-in Habitat armchairs, I also spotted a couple more designs that I think are worth investing in.

Which Habitat armchair speaks to you?

The best slushie machines are a recent phenomenon – bringing the tech of commercial-grade machines into the home for the first time – but they're not going anywhere fast.

Endless fun for hosting and capable of turning any sugary drink into a full-blown occasion, these slushie machines are undeniably frivolous. But they also work spectacularly well, so you can replicate the frozen margarita from your favourite cocktail bar or blue raspberry slush from your youth without a hitch.

As Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor, it's been my fortunate job to test these slushie machines out over the past few years (one even featured at Ideal Home's team Christmas party!). Alongside my panel of expert testers I've tried all variations of slushie makers, including multi-functional versions that also make soft serve. You can find them ranked below. If you're looking for more ways to whip up frozen treats at home, you might also want to check out our roundup of the best ice cream makers.

Best Slushie makers of 2026

• Best slushie machine overall: Ninja Slushi, £299.99 at Ninja
• Best budget slushie machine: INOVIVA Slush Machine, £189.99 at Amazon
• Best multi-purpose slushie machine: Cuisinart Frost Fusion, £299.99 at Amazon

Best slushie machine overall

Sometimes the original really is best. That's the case with the SLUSHi, which was first released by Ninja in 2024, inspiring a wave of at-home treat makers to be released by competitors.

If straightforward slush is what you're after, you can't beat the quality of the original SLUSHi (which is often subject to deals, too). From the ease of use, which is a hallmark of all Ninja air fryers too, to the array of programs which allow for frosé as well as alcoholic drinks this machine is a real treat from start to finish. The more affordable alternatives I tried were passable but they didn't match the quality of the OG in terms of ease.

One thing worth noting about the SLUSHi (and all slushie makers overall) is that it requires sugar in order for its compressor element to suitably freeze your drink. So if you're looking for a healthy treat maker, then this is not it – look at the Creami or Swirl instead.

While expensive, you'll find you get what you pay for with the SLUSHi. The one thing that may disappoint is that it doesn't have functionality for ice cream or desserts per se – that's where other options on this list might entice you instead.

Best budget slushie maker

I tried this Amazon alternative to the SLUSHi side by side to the Ninja original and I was pretty impressed with what it had to offer. Its programs and design are essentially identical to the slushie machine that started the craze and it has the same capacity which will suit those who love to host.

Despite its obvious lookalike credentials, its not quite the same quality as the original. Its slightly less attractive (though its not as if you'd want the SLUSHi to live on your worktop full time), feels somewhat less sturdy and has less instructive materials to get you started. The programs can also be a little fiddlier to get perfect.

On the whole though, it is a worthwhile alternative to the Ninja if you want to spend £100 or so less (especially if you catch it on sale on Amazon Prime Day or similar). Just don't expect the exact same quality!

Best multifunctional slushie maker

Packing more functionality into one appliance is ideal for those who want to save money and worktop space – the best multicookers are a shining example. That's what Cuisinart's Frost Fusion has going for it with the ability to freeze slushies alongside the capability to mix soft serve in under 30 minutes. You can use the same dispenser mechanism to whip up sorbet, frosé and frozen yoghurt too.

When our tester Annie tried this machine out she found that it excelled in the realm of frozen drinks. With it she made a frappé in just 14 minutes and enjoyed frosé and multiple rounds of margaritas in it too – all with great results.

Where it falls down is its capacity compared to the SLUSHi. It has a litre less space, so it's not as capable for hosting. Annie also found it didn't handle high alcohol content drinks as well as purely sugary ones.

However, for a do-it-all appliance it should be your go-to pick. The soft serve capability will dazzle any child in the vicinity while the drinks functions can be used for all sorts of events.

Our Cuisinart Frost Fusion review has the full details.

Best slushie machine for hosting

If the original SLUSHi is a flamboyance, it's hard to find the words to accurately depict the ridiculousness of the SLUSHi Twist is. But after testing out every single function (and having a lot of fun while doing it) our expert reviewer couldn't help but love this machine.

It's simply the perfect iteration of a slushie machine for hosting. With two separate tanks for drinks to cater to all (by making one alcoholic and one not, say) as well as the ability to combine two flavours together as if you're at the cinema, it's a mightily impressive buy.

Our reviewer Helen was most impressed by the smart yet simple controls as well as how fast it churned out drinks. Quiet operation was a bonus too. All in all, while this is Ninja's most expensive SLUSHi machine yet it's also the most useful if you love to host.

Our Ninja SLUSHi Twist review has the full details.

How we tested these slushie machines

We know how important it is to have real, unbiased opinions about the products that we recommend to Ideal Home readers, which is why as part of our testing protocol, we've had hands-on experience with all of the products in this guide.

When testing slushies, we spend weeks evaluating these products in our kitchens. It starts with evaluating the unboxing and start up process and continues on as we look at the consistency of each drink dispensed. We try out all of the functions that each machine has to offer as well as thinking about how loud each machine is. We can't forget clean-up either or how easy (or difficult) each machine is to store.

Below you can find out exactly who tested each of the appliances on this round up, and learn more about our testing process.

FAQs

Why do you need sugar in slushies?

The compressor element in a slushie machine requires sugar to prevent over-freezing. Without sugar or alcohol, your drink will become too frozen and could damage your machine.

Do you need to add ice to a slushie machine?

No. The compressor inside your slushie machine is doing all of the work to make your drink frozen and change its texture. Adding ice to the tank of a slushie machine is not recommended.

How long does the slushie process take?

In our tests the process of creating slushies took between 15-45 minutes. It varies from drink to drink and can differ depending on room and drink temperature.

The TV personality and interiors enthusiast lives in Essex with her husband Alex and their children Abel, three, and Siena Grace, 11 months

In the hot seat

• Shoes on or off? I'd love to say shoes off, but I'm too relaxed.
• Eat at the table or on laps? Table.
• Lighting – bright or moody? A mix.
• Quick shower or long bath? Quick shower.
• Colourful or neutral? Colourful.
• Neat or creative chaos? I want to be a neat freak, but I have two kids!
• Music, radio, TV or quiet? Silence, if I can get it.

Olivia Bowen's new design app, Interior Design Clinic, is available at interiordesignclinic.com and via your app store.

As a homes journalist, I spend more time than I'd like to admit snooping around Instagram to see what stylish people and celebrities are putting in their homes. And this summer it seems rattan ice buckets are having their moment.

Given all the hot weather and bright sunshine we’ve had this summer, I can’t say I’m surprised that rattan ice buckets are emerging as a breakout home decor trend. Now more than ever, a stylish ice bucket has become a hosting essential for garden soirées and BBQs.

With beachy, coastal garden ideas making a huge comeback this summer, as well as Mediterranean styles influencing our interiors, it’s only natural that rattan would experience a boom, too. It’s a laid-back, boho style that can still look refined and polished when needed, and manifested into an ice bucket, it’s the must-have hosting accessory of summer.

I’ve been seeing the White Company Rattan Ice Bucket with Tongs (which sadly is currently sold out) all over Instagram this summer, on the set of Holly Willoughby’s new YouTube show Together, to the kitchen of celebrity chef Clodagh McKenna.

Rattan is a material that I associate solely with summer. From the best rattan garden furniture to the fact that rattan plant pots have been a breakout trend this summer, this material has a seaside aesthetic, which is perfect for creating a holiday home at home.

Extended into accessories such as ice buckets, rattan looks more refined and considered. Not to mention that rattan ice buckets tend to come with an expensive price tag, making it a bit of a status symbol on your bar cart. However, there are currently lots of rattan ice buckets on sale on second-hand websites, if you want to get the look on a lower budget.

'I'm always all for elevating even the simplest and most utilitarian pieces in one's home and making your space look more stylish and considered that way. And that's exactly what opting for a rattan ice bucket is great for. Plus, it's a great nod to coastal and Mediterranean styles, bringing a beachy vibe to any outdoor space - and who can say no to that?!' comments Sara Hesikova, Room Decor Editor for Ideal Home.

So, I’ve rounded up the prettiest rattan ice buckets I could find, including a couple of budget options, too.

‘I actually think a woven ice bucket has more longevity than a lot of obviously seasonal tableware because rattan itself isn't tied to one particular trend. I’d style it quite casually and put it alongside simple glassware, linen napkins and plain ceramic plates, then let the texture of the ice bucket do some of the work,’ says Blanca Sanchez, director of Halo Design Interiors.

‘I also wouldn’t limit it to outdoor entertaining. A woven ice bucket can look great on a kitchen island or dining table when you’re having people over indoors, particularly if you’ve got other natural materials in the room. Just don't overdo the rattan. One or two woven pieces are enough to create a relaxed summer feeling without making the room look like a themed beach house.’

A rattan ice bucket is a simple yet undoubtedly effective way to elevate your home bar. It may be a breakout trend this year, but it certainly has potential as a timeless hosting accessory.

While traditionally sitting rooms were arranged so they faced the fireplace, in more recent years, the go-to focal point of any lounge was the TV. But that is now changing, too, as the ‘conversation-first living room’ trend is on the rise.

This living room trend is only growing in popularity as more people prioritise connection with family and friends over centring a whole room around a screen. ‘It’s simply about designing a living room around people rather than a screen,’ says Jill O’Doherty, design consultant and assistant manager at Sofas & Stuff's flagship showroom.

This kind of approach to decorating a space is not exclusive to the living room as creating homes that feel relaxing, comfortable and cosy has been one of the biggest home decor trends of the last few years. ‘Conversation-first living rooms are rising in popularity, and it reflects a wider cultural shift,’ explains Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology. ‘After years of our homes revolving around screens, people are rethinking their spaces to feel more sociable and nurturing. It is part of a broader move toward slower, more intentional living that chooses connection over distraction and valuing the quality of time spent together.’

But creating a conversation-first living room doesn’t necessarily mean getting rid of the TV altogether. ‘There may or may not be a television in the room but if there is one, it won’t be the focal point because the aim is to direct attention towards each other and away from the TV,’ says Shelley Cochrane, accessories expert at Furniture Village.

But if you want to have a conversation-first living room in your own home, these are the experts’ top tips on how to go about it.

1. Arrange seating to face each other

Perhaps the most obvious yet effective way to make sure a living room is geared towards conversation is by arranging the seating to face each other. For example, arrange an armchair or two in a way that faces your sofa.

‘Arrange your seating so people naturally turn towards one another, rather than everything facing the television. Including an armchair or two within the main seating arrangement is an easy way to create a more sociable layout,’ Jill at Sofas & Stuff says.

2. Invest in a comfy corner sofa

This is not to say you should get rid of your sofa and get the best corner sofa out there instead. But if you’re already thinking of investing in a new sofa, a corner configuration is one of the most conversation-encouraging styles there is. But modular sofas, as well as certain curved styles also work.

‘Large modular sofas, corner configurations and curved silhouettes all help create spaces that feel more inclusive and encourage interaction,’ says Monika Puccio, buying director at Sofa Club.

Nicky Emlick, creative director at Sofa.com, continues, ‘We're seeing greater demand for generous sofas and modular designs. Comfort is equally important. If you want people to spend time talking, reading or entertaining, the seating has to support that. Choosing a sofa with deeper seats, soft upholstery and enough room for family and guests creates a space people genuinely want to spend time in.’

3. Make a coffee table the centre

Instead of making the TV the focus of the room, make the coffee table the centre of the arrangement. Make sure it’s big enough so that everyone can comfortably rest their drinks on top of it (and more) and to allow you to play some board games on it, too.

‘Layer in a central coffee table or ottoman to create a focal point everyone can gather around,’ Monika at Sofa Club advises.

4. Create clear walkways

‘Keep walkways clear so conversations aren’t interrupted by clutter,’ Julia at Sofology says.

In order for your conversation-first living room to feel comfortable and welcoming, make sure the space is not cluttered and the furniture isn’t placed too close together that would restrict movement around the room.

5. Zone the room

As living rooms become multifunctional - with this particular trend further proving this - creating different zones for different purposes is the expert-recommended approach.

‘Zoning is playing a bigger part in this than people realise,’ says Adam Dugdale, creative director at Oak & More. ‘Rather than treating the living room as one single space built around a screen, we're seeing homeowners divide it into distinct areas, one zone for conversation and hosting, perhaps another quieter corner for reading. A simple way to achieve this is to place a sideboard behind the sofa, using it to define the back of a seating area and create a natural boundary between zones, without the need for a wall or structural change.’

Monika at Sofa Club concludes, ‘A conversation-first layout makes a home feel more welcoming and connected. It encourages meaningful interaction, whether that's catching up with family, entertaining friends or simply spending quality time together at the end of the day.’

Sorry IKEA, broadcaster Clara Amfo has just put me onto Habitat’s Sami Stacking Stool (£31), and it’s a brilliant alternative to the classic KYRRE stool if you want to add a bold pop of colour to your home. And right now, you can get an extra 20% off.

You should never underestimate the brilliance of a stackable stool as a small living room storage idea. Perfect for whipping out for extra guests, the selling point of this seat style is that it takes up minimal space when not in use. And Habitat’s Sami stool is proof that space-savers can be stylish pieces of furniture in their own right.

Displaying her stools as part of Habitat’s most recent Arranging Spaces instalment, Clara's preference for pops of colour is proof that your practical home items don’t have to be boring.

If you need examples of how to use colour in a home, then look no further than Clara’s masterclass example of how to use the year’s colour palette. Opening her doors to Habitat, we’ve been able to catch a glimpse of her interiors.

Despite having previously been impressed with Clara’s use of paint, this time it was the stacking stools that caught my attention. In a post shared on Instagram, Clara explained how she uses bright, joyful colour and influences from her Ghanaian heritage in her home.

‘I just like to be surrounded by colour. Something's always gotta pop,’ said Clara, talking about her home's interior's.

‘These stools in particular, are very good for that. These are definite standout pieces for when I’ve invited maybe too many people into my home. So, these come in very very useful from Habitat.

Available in red, cream, mustard and green, the stool's colourways have a slightly muted, retro look. I like how the fabric cushion seat is coloured matched to the painted wood legs. It gives a designer look to a functional item you do not think about.

I recently raved about IKEA’S KOMPISHÄNG Stools, whose clever design allows you to turn your seating into shelving. While Habitat’s stacking stools don’t offer a dual function, they do work on the same principle. Seating can look good while taking up minimal space. And I would argue that the Habitat Sami Stool looks far more stylish.

The chairs have a manufacturer's guarantee of two years and can hold a max weight of 100kg (15st 7lbs). At £31 per stool (without discount), it can be a little pricey if you need multiple chairs, and there are sets of cheaper stacking stools, like B&Q’s set of six matt black metal stools for £40.99.

However, Habitat’s are the most stylish I’ve spotted online for under £40, so if you like its colourful retro look, I’d strongly recommend making the most of its current 20% discount.

Shop Clara's home decor

It's not just these stunning stools, Clara's snapped up from Habitat. Here are a few more striking buys you can find in her home.

Clara’s home is proof that functional design can be joyful. If you have a small space, incorporating colour via typically ‘boring’ items you can make your space look effortlessly stylish.

Celebrity chef Clodagh McKenna recently unveiled her new kitchen renovation, and there is one small detail that makes the space ooze rural charm - she’s used bunches of dried lavender to decorate, and I’m obsessed.

Rustic, country kitchens are one kitchen trend I’ll always be a fan of, and Clodagh’s newly redesigned space is a masterclass on how to nail the look. In fact, her herb decorating idea looks so good, I’m itching to try it out in my own kitchen.

But before I start stringing bunches of lavender together, I spoke to kitchen experts to get the lowdown on whether this is a good idea to use in your own kitchen. Spoiler alert: it is, and lavender is not the only plant suitable for this gorgeous decorating idea.

How to get the look

If you need rustic kitchen ideas, then you can’t miss out on seeing Clodagh’s new kitchen on Instagram. Featuring a large Belfast sink, rich dark wood finishes, a flagstone floor and open shelving, I couldn’t help but fall completely in love with it.

But hanging from the beams is my standout feature: the bunches of dried lavender. Opting for hanging her cookware from shelves and ceiling beams, Clodagh has spaced out each pot or pan with a bunch of the gorgeously scented Mediterranean plant. The finished result looks like something out of a fairytale.

‘Dried lavender can be used across the entire home, and we often see it hung up in places such as the bathroom or on doors. However, what most people don’t automatically think of is using it in the kitchen. If you have a rail above the worktop, or at the end of your cabinet or island, then lavender, along with other dried herbs, is great at adding scent as well as visual interest to the space,’ commented Ntola Obazee, creative director for Kutchenhaus.

‘It creates texture and provides a gentle scent, which is great for covering old food smells. It also has the added benefit of being a great low-maintenance alternative to flowers, which can be enjoyed for months to come.’

However, there are a few drawbacks to using lavender in your kitchen that you should be aware of before you hang your own sprigs. Kitchens are hot and humid, which are ideal conditions for mould to grow on natural material. And you should also bear in mind that lavender will lose its colour and scent over time.

‘The main concerns are exactly those you would expect in a kitchen environment. Dust, grease and moisture all affect dried flowers and herbs, and once something begins to look tired, it can detract from an otherwise beautifully designed room,’ says Caroline Montague, interior designer, author and owner of Tuscan retreat Villa Sartiano

‘I have used lavender in a stone urn in Italy, where it works well for a short period because the setting feels right and the arrangement is changed regularly. It is a lovely detail when it is fresh, but it does need attention.’

As Caroline points out, you will need to refresh your lavender semi-regularly if you want it to stay looking fresh. But if you’re looking for something lower-maintenance, she does recommend a few different herbs you can try.

‘I much prefer living herbs in a kitchen. A row of pots containing rosemary, thyme, basil or sage brings colour, texture and scent, but it also has a purpose. They are connected to cooking, which makes them feel natural in that setting,’ she says.

Ntola also points out you can hang dried herbs, too, if you want a similar look to Clodagh. Alternatively, you could even hang fake flowers as an even lower-maintenance look.

‘Sage, rosemary and thyme all dry beautifully. If you want to create a little more texture and personality in your kitchen, you could easily add in alternative bunches to give variation and interest to the space. They each give off their own unique scent, and the different leaves give variation to each bunch,’ she suggests.

While Clodagh’s lavender kitchen may require a little extra maintenance, it is truly beautiful and great inspo for a country kitchen.

Finding kitchen storage ideas for compact spaces is no small task - a truly practical cooking environment makes use of every inch possible, but what happens where there's an awkward gap?

Luckily, Argos has the ultimate small kitchen storage solution. I've waxed lyrical about how useful trolleys are in kitchens before, but I've never seen one so nifty and versatile like this pine slim trolley - and it's only £30.

Trolleys are an unsung kitchen feature, in my opinion. While built-in kitchen storage ideas are key to ensuring that everything can be tucked away behind closed doors, the humble trolley offers true versatility.

Having moveable storage on wheels means that you can move it around a kitchen to support you where it's required. Whether you use it to house breakfast essentials for children, baking supplies or regular everyday cooking must-haves, being able to keep them close by eases daily life.

So when I saw this Argos trolley for just £30, I knew it would be useful in so many cooking spaces. The compact, slim-style doesn't limit the storage potential, but rather it opens up even more possibilites for where you can house it.

The 10cm design flaw is a common issue in kitchen designs. As the name suggests, 10cm gaps are often found within built-in kitchens, resulting in wasted space that could be better utilised.

This trolley is the perfect antidote. Whether you position it within an awkward gap or at the end of a kitchen island, it will prove to be a lifesaver for keeping things close by.

'Specifically in small kitchens, you have to be much savvier about how every bit of space is utilised. When you don’t have room to add more cabinetry, flexible or movable storage can be a really easy way to create extra capacity without making your space feel overcrowded,' explains Ntola Obazee, brand director at Kutchenhaus.

This trolley doesn't just offer storage potential - it also has plenty of opportunity for creativity, too.

Many trolleys are metal and come in pre-chosen colours, meaning you're limited on picking one to suit your kitchen colour scheme. This pine style, however, can be painted to match your chosen cabinetry shade, or even contrasted with your existing colour scheme to make more of an impact.

Wooden storage solutions, much like this IKEA pine pantry, mean that you can truly make it your own - or keep natural if you prefer a pared-back look.

Shop kitchen trolleys

As we head into the second half of the year, now is the time to start thinking about kitchen trends for 2027 - these are the 3 design moments in 2026 that I predict will have staying power.

If you're looking for a paint colour that will create a calm, soothing bedroom, then blue is a shade that may well be high on your agenda.

The colour of the sky and the ocean, blue's strong connection to the natural world means it's a hue which creates feelings of spaciousness, relaxation, and restfulness; all great qualities in a sleep space.

However, as we move into the last half of 2026 and beyond, there are some shades of the colour that are – to my mind at least – beginning to look a little dated.

The good news is that interior experts say that there are three subtle tweaks to blue bedroom ideas that can bring this popular shade bang up to date.

Why are blue bedrooms so popular?

But first up, why do our interior experts all agree that blue is such a great choice for a bedroom?

'Blue is one of those colours that the mind and body just respond to,' says Laura Hammett, creative director of interior design studio and homeware brand, Laura Hammett Living, 'and there’s a psychological reason. Blue tones are proven to calm the heart rate and ease the nervous system, perfect for a restful space.'

However, not all blues are created equal, and our interior experts say this is a colour that can require a little know-how to avoid it slipping into feeling cold or stark, as well as to ensure it doesn't feel dated as we begin the slow wind-down towards the end of the year

These are the subtle tweaks to blue that our interior experts recommend for a stylish and on-trend bedroom in 2026 and beyond.

1. Barely-there-blue

If you're considering a pale blue bedroom, our experts advise being wary of icy blue or pastel blue shades, both of which are bedroom colours that can now feel outdated.

Instead, they suggest opting for one of 2026's hottest bedroom colours, a tone we're dubbing 'barely-there-blue', or, as Laura Hammett describes it, 'hazy dove'.

'Barely-there blue is a beautiful choice for bedrooms because it behaves almost like a neutral, but with a subtle freshness that keeps a space feeling light and airy,' explains Sophie Pringle, founder of interior design studio Pringle & Pringle.

'It’s particularly effective in smaller or darker rooms where you want colour, but not weight,' adds Sophie.

'Barely-there-blue is one of those shades that instantly makes a bedroom feel lighter and more restful without overwhelming the space,' agrees Marianne Shillingford, creative director and colour expert at Dulux.

How to style

'We like to use these barely-there tones across the whole room, including walls, ceiling and woodwork, to create a soft, enveloping effect,' says Sophie. 'When everything is painted in the same gentle shade, the boundaries of the room blur slightly, which can make the space feel larger and more serene.'

'These softer shades also work beautifully as a backdrop for layered textiles in slightly deeper or contrasting tones, which stops it feeling too flat,' says Sophie.

'Colours like Dulux Heritage’s Light French Grey have a really understated elegance and work beautifully alongside warm neutrals, soft linens and natural wood to create a scheme that feels calm, timeless and easy to live with,' adds Marianne.

2. Seafoam

Seafoam or a soft turquoise blue is another great alternative to a more standard, pale or mid-tone blue.

'If you slide towards the green family with some sagey undertones, you introduce that quiet connection to the natural world that makes a space feel instinctively calm and grounding,' explains Laura.

'A soft turquoise brings a real sense of vibrancy and optimism to a bedroom,' says Sophie. 'It has a natural connection to both blue and green, which gives it an uplifting quality while still feeling rooted in nature. When used thoughtfully, it can bring real personality to a space without feeling overwhelming.'

You might also want to consider swapping out a straight blue for a more vibrant shade of turquoise, 'it's a lovely way to introduce a little more personality into a bedroom while still keeping the space feeling fresh and uplifting,' says Marianne.

How to style

'We tend to use turquoise more sparingly or as part of a tonal scheme, either on joinery, panelling, or as a feature wall, and then balance it with more muted, grounding tones elsewhere in the room,' says Sophie.

'Natural materials such as rattan, pale woods and neutral linens work particularly well alongside it, helping to soften its intensity and keep the overall scheme feeling calm and cohesive.'

'I'd soften the look with warm neutrals or accents of ochre, terracotta or natural materials for a space that feels balanced and inviting,' suggests Marianne.

3. Inky or sea blues

Another way to make blue feel fresh is to avoid pale or mid-tones and go for dark ink or deep sea blues. Why? 'Dark and inky blues are incredibly effective in bedrooms because they create a sense of depth and intimacy,' says Sophie.

And whilst you might think a navy bedroom isn't an option if you have a small bedroom, Sophie disagrees. 'Rather than making a space feel smaller, these deeper tones can actually make a room feel more enveloping and restful, which is exactly what you want in a bedroom,' she says.

'Deep navy and inky blues, such as Slow Swing, are perfect if you're looking to create a bedroom that feels cosy and cocooning,' agrees Marianne. 'They're surprisingly versatile and add real depth to a space.'

'These midnight shades are perfect for busy people who find it hard to switch off at night because they create the ultimate visual cocoon which can help us feel safe, relax and sleep better.'

How to style

'We often use these shades across the whole room for maximum impact - particularly in spaces where you want to create a more dramatic, cocooning atmosphere,' shares Sophie. 'When paired with soft, layered lighting and lighter textiles, navy becomes incredibly sophisticated rather than heavy.'

'Metallic accents, particularly aged brass or soft bronze, also work beautifully against darker blues, adding warmth and subtle contrast without disrupting the overall calmness of the scheme.'

Or, 'pair with crisp white bedding, warm timber furniture and tactile fabrics like linen or velvet to stop the room feeling too dark,' suggests Marianne.

Take note of these subtle tweaks, and you'll be able to create a timeless blue bedroom that feels soothing, restorative, and bang on trend as we look towards 2027.

If you were under the assumption that bean bags are just for children, you’d be wrong. And if you don’t believe me, let Habitat’s new Estelle Quilted Bean Bag (£120) convince you.

Last summer, I predicted that this living room seating idea would be one of the nineties trends having a comeback this year. And while I was right, I hadn’t quite anticipated that bean bags would have such a sleek, grown-up update.

As a home decor trend in 2026, Habitat’s Estelle bean bag is the perfect balance of cosy and sculptural design. It retains the original playfulness of a bean bag, whilst presenting itself as a serious seating idea.

Are bean bags cool again?

When I first saw the Habitat Estelle Quilted Bean Bag, it reminded me of Urban Outfitters’ Reema Velvet Two-Seater Floor Cushion (was £299, now £224) but at a more affordable price point. Like the Reema, Habitat’s version is large enough for you to stretch out and its low-slung shape is perfect for relaxation.

It’s said to be both light and durable, perfect for everyday use in a reading nook, bedroom or living room. And its gorgeous rust, velvet colourway gives it a seventies, retro look, which, as we know, has been a big trend this year. And it got me thinking: Are bean bags having a revival? And has Habitat just made them look grown-up and cool?

‘This particular design taps beautifully into the 1970s revival we're seeing across interiors this year. It offers a more affordable way to capture the relaxed aesthetic of the iconic Ligne Roset Togo chair, which remains one of the most recognisable pieces of furniture design. It's an easy way to introduce a touch of that laid-back seventies influence without the designer price tag,’ commented Natalie Evans, founder and CEO of home styling and staging company Little Barn Door.

As Habitat shows, bean bags can attain an almost designer look when done right and remain a comfy piece of furniture. But it is the makeover of the bean bag's image that has allowed it to break free from the shackles of playroom ideas.

‘I think bean bags have shaken off their ‘just for kids’ reputation. The newer designs we're seeing are much more considered, with quality fabrics, soft shapes and neutral colours that fit naturally into adult spaces. They're no longer something you'd hide away in a playroom. In the right setting, they can look just as stylish as an accent chair,’ adds Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at Hillarys.

‘Comfort is a huge priority in interiors right now, which is why I think bean bags are making a comeback. People want homes that feel relaxed and easy to live in, and furniture that helps create that laid-back atmosphere is naturally becoming more popular. They're a great example of how practical pieces can still feel design-led.’

How to style a bean bag

home decor trends effectively. For Victoria, this is all about leaning into the cosy connotations of a bean bag.

‘When styling a bean bag, I'd lean into that cosy, relaxed feel. Place it in a reading corner with a floor lamp and side table, or use it to soften a living room seating arrangement. Keeping it in a fabric and colour that complements the rest of the room helps it feel intentional, rather than looking like an extra seat that's been added at the last minute,’ she says.

Natalie agrees, stating it’s best placed in a cosy corner near a record player or bookshelf. She even recommends pairing the rust colourway with teal for a playful yet stylish colour clash. And after spotting this stunning teal-patterned cushion at OKA (£65), I’m inclined to agree. And for the Habitat bean bag specifically, Natalie says it has staying power.

‘While it's clearly influenced by current trends, its simple, sculptural shape gives it versatility beyond the latest fashion. Whether it becomes a long-term classic may depend on how Habitat develops the collection, particularly if they expand the range of colours and fabrics to suit changing interior trends,’ she says.

‘For anyone wanting to embrace the current seventies aesthetic without making a significant investment, it's a stylish and accessible option that brings both comfort and character into the home.’

Have you been won over by bean bags? I know I have...

The best relaxing living room features don't just make your space look stylish - they create somewhere you can switch off at the end of a busy day, too. From the furniture you choose to the way you light the room, a few thoughtful touches can make all the difference to how cosy, calm and inviting your living room feels.

I spoke to interior design professionals to find out which relaxing living room features they always include in their projects. Whether it's choosing calming colours for a living room, investing in comfortable seating or layering lighting, these are the design elements they recommend prioritising.

But before you start designing your ideal relaxing living room space, it's worth thinking about exactly how you want the space to work, says John Law, Creative Director at Woodhouse & Law Interior Design. 'Is it somewhere to unwind with a book at the end of the day, entertain friends, or simply switch off from a busy household? Once you understand how the room needs to work, the design decisions become much easier.'

1. Deep, comfortable sofas

A relaxing living room should invite you to put your feet up, so it's not surprising that living room seating - in particular a comfortable sofa - topped every expert's list.

'Comfort always comes first,' believes John. 'We always encourage clients to choose a sofa that feels as good as it looks, with generous proportions and layouts that encourage conversation rather than simply pointing everything at the television. A relaxing room should invite you to settle in, not perch.'

Victoria Robinson, trend expert at Hillarys, adds that deep sofas, oversized cushions and upholstered furniture all contribute to a feeling of comfort and ease. 'If a space is designed around relaxation, seating should be every bit as practical as it is attractive.'

2. Layered lighting

Living room lighting can completely transform not only how your space looks but how it feels. Rather than relying on one overhead fitting, Ally Dowsing-Reynolds, interiors expert and co-founder of Dowsing & Reynolds, recommends layering different light sources to create a softer, more relaxing atmosphere.

'Opt for warm LED bulbs for a cosy glow and a dimmer switch to allow you to control the light easily,' she says. 'A dimmer switch offers flexibility with lighting, allowing you to adjust the intensity to soften the room's edges and create a more visually spacious and relaxed feel.'

John adds that where single ceiling light can make a space feel quite harsh, combining table lamps, floor lamps and discreet wall lights creates a softer atmosphere that changes with the time of day. 'It gives the room a warmth that instantly makes you want to stay in it.'

3. A calming colour palette

When it comes to creating a relaxing living room, living room colours matter as much as comfort.

'Relaxing living rooms tend to draw inspiration from nature,' says Victoria. 'Muted greens, warm neutrals, soft blues and earthy tones create a sense of balance and calm without feeling cold or clinical. These colours are easy to live with and help establish a backdrop that feels restful rather than overstimulating.'

While painting the walls is one option, if you're not ready to redecorate, introducing calming colours through accessories is a much quicker update. 'Opt for warm, colourful shades such as ambers, terracottas through soft furnishings, such as cushions and throws,' suggests Ally.

4. Soft textures and natural materials

The most relaxing living rooms not only look cosy - they feel cosy too. Layering tactile materials throughout the room helps soften the overall look while making the space feel warmer and more inviting.

'A room doesn't always need lots of bold colours or patterns to feel interesting, it's often the mix of natural materials that makes it feel calm and inviting,' says John. 'Linen, wool, wood, stone and beautifully woven fabrics all bring depth in a much quieter way, helping a room feel lived in rather than overly designed.'

Victoria also recommends layering tactile textures throughout the room as a cosy living room idea. 'Textured curtains, woven rugs, wooden furniture, linen cushions and soft throws all add depth and warmth without creating visual clutter,' she says. 'The most calming living rooms aren't necessarily the most trend-led, they're the spaces that feel comfortable, balanced and personal.'

5. Personal touches

A relaxing living room doesn't have to be minimalist, but it should feel intentional.

'Finally, we think the most peaceful interiors are the ones that have been carefully edited,' explains John. 'Giving favourite objects, artwork and books room to breathe creates a sense of order, but it's equally important to surround yourself with pieces that genuinely mean something to you.'

Whether it's artwork collected on your travels, treasured family photographs or a favourite chair you've owned for years, those personal touches create an emotional connection with your home.

As John puts it: 'The most relaxing interiors don't just look beautiful – they feel like a warm embrace, wrapping you in the things you love every time you walk through the door.'

Create a relaxing living room

Creating a calming living room doesn't have to mean completely redesigning your space. Whether you start with a softer lighting scheme, introduce more texture or simply edit your décor, incorporating a few relaxing living room features can make your space calmer, cosier and somewhere you'll genuinely enjoy spending time.

Holly Willoughby’s chilli con carne recipe reel has baffled fans on Instagram, with some asking ‘what’s that thing on the wall?’ in the background of her video in her kitchen.

If you’re one of the confused, don’t worry, you’ve landed in the right place, and Holly’s unusual contraption has actually been a pretty big kitchen trend for the past few years, as celebrities and influencers have hopped on the country kitchen trend.

I won’t keep you in suspense any longer. What Holly has is a pot filler, and while traditionally you spot these in a working professional kitchen, they’re becoming more and more popular in domestic homes. Here’s why.

Holly frequently shares glimpses of her personal life and home across social media, so sharing one of her recipes is not unusual. And eagle-eyed fans were quick to offer their own cooking suggestions and, of course, praise her kitchen. But one comment in particular stood out to us.

‘What’s that thing on the wall?’

While we’ve established it is a pot filler, it’s time to get into exactly what it means and how a pot filler can impact your kitchen. In short, a pot filler is a tap that sits above your oven, so you don’t have to lug heavy pots of water from your sink to your stove, thus making the cooking process easier and more efficient.

‘The pot filler remains a functional kitchen update for anyone who loves to cook from home. Designed to deliver a greater water flow per minute, a pot filler promises a faster fill so you can easily use your larger pots to cook with, as typically, this style of tap is positioned above the cooktop,’ comments Paul Illingworth, design manager at Adobe.

Are pot fillers trending?

‘Pot fillers have definitely become more visible this year, especially as people are putting more focus on making kitchens work better for how they actually cook. It's a feature lots of people haven't really seen before either, so videos on social media (like Holly's) tend to gain a bit of attention,' says Dean Harper, chef at Harper Fine Dining.

'It's one of those things where you wouldn't think about it until you see it, then you immediately understand the appeal of having a tap directly above the hob. It’s a feature that feels like it belongs in a professional kitchen, but it’s becoming more accessible in high-end home kitchens too.

‘The main reason they’re becoming more popular is that they solve a very specific cooking problem. If you regularly cook things like pasta, soups, stews, sauces, or large batches of food, moving a heavy pot full of water from the sink to the hob can be awkward. A pot filler removes that step by allowing you to fill the pan exactly where you’re going to cook.’

The main reason people invest in pot fillers is that they make cooking easier and more efficient. They also make a kitchen look instantly ‘high-end’ so it’s easy to see how the aesthetics of a pot filler can play into the decision to include one in your kitchen renovation.

Pot fillers have been a fairly US-centric trend, due to the fact that UK kitchens tend to be on the smaller side. But if you’re planning a kitchen renovation, they are a great way to elevate your space and make it look more expensive. It’s also more affordable to fit one during a renovation.

‘If you’re fitting one during a kitchen renovation, it’s much easier because the walls are already being worked on. Retrofitting one into an existing kitchen can cost more because a plumber may need to access pipework behind the wall,’ explains Dean.

‘The tap itself can range from around £100 for a basic model to several hundred pounds or more for higher-end versions. Installation costs vary depending on the complexity, but homeowners should expect to budget several hundred pounds for professional fitting. It’s important to use a qualified plumber because a leak behind a wall can cause significant damage if the fitting isn’t done properly.’

Alternatively, if you don’t have the space or finances to fit a pot filler. Here are some affordable buys to instantly elevate your cooking space.

Shop the luxe look for less

If you were confused by the purpose of Holly’s extra tap, I hope this has cleared it up for you. The question is now: would you fit one in your own kitchen?

2026 has seen the desire for characterful interiors grow more than ever before. Our homes are being packed with personality, from colour and pattern to clever layout tweaks to fit every family's needs - and unswept tiles are the latest technique for taking this one step further.

Bathroom tile ideas have long been a source of inspiration for showcasing personality within a design. Delft tiles have come back into fashion in 2026 with traditional motifs updated to match evolving trends - windmills have become champagne bottles thanks to companies such as Indigo & Ivory.

Unswept tiles take this one step further and bring colour into the mix, too. Here's why you should give this ancient art form a try in your bathroom.

What are unswept tiles?

Brought to Britain by the Romans, this form of tile art has deep-rooted ancient links. While so much of our design inspiration comes from bygone eras, it's rare to see such an ancient style be reclaimed to suit our modern-day tastes.

'The 'unswept floor' design dates back to Roman times when it was used in dining rooms, preserving in stone the debris that would have fallen from the hands of the guests such as fish bones, seeds and fruit peel,' Helen Miles, mosaic artist, says of the tongue-in-cheek name.

It is thought that the Ancient Greeks first adopted the trompe l'oeil style to amuse dinner guests in Pergamon - and this amusement is what is repopularising the art form today.

'There are four ancient mosaics using different versions of the design which are still in existence so we know that it was a popular motif. The joy of using it in contemporary mosaics is that you can add anything that the client wants,' Helen adds.

While unswept tiles look particularly effective in a kitchen pantry or beneath a table for those bold enough, featuring these colourful tile motifs in a bathroom adds so much personality.

Whether it's a cloakroom or full bathroom, in the UK our bathrooms err on the side of bijou, which means we have to get creative with finding a fifth (or sixth) surface to decorate.

Flooring offers an opportunity to add colour and pattern without making the space feel too enclosed, and seeing as tiles are such a practical choice anyway, why not lean in?

'Instead of one motif repeated in neat formation, small decorative details are scattered across a calm tiled field as though they have collected there over time, bringing personality without making the whole room feel themed,' says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

You don't need to take direct inspiration from the Romans with half eaten fruit on your bathroom floor - words or even personal motifs that represent your family are great ways to add character to a WC that guests enter.

Unswept tiles don't need to be reserved for flooring either - as mosaic artist Amy Exton has demonstrated above, they're just as well-placed on a wall so that the design is at eye level.

'The idea can work across a splashback just as beautifully as it can underfoot, particularly when it is contained within a smaller area where the unexpected details can be properly appreciated,' Grazzie adds.

The beauty of this tile style is that it's entirely personalisable - from colours to objects, you can display any niche or wacky idea you desire.

Looking to spruce up your bathroom scheme ahead of a new season? These are the 2026 bathroom trends that I envision sticking around for next year, so you can design with confidence.

If you're saving your pennies to go on holiday this summer, or have already been and spent more than you budgeted for, you're hardly going to be splashing out on buying a bunch of new things for your home this month. That is, until you scroll down.

The fact that you're reading this means the promise of 20 stylish buys all priced under £20 has more than piqued your interest. As Ideal Home's Deputy Editor, I spend my days looking at and writing about the latest homeware from both high street and independent brands. This means I know exactly where to find the best stylish buys that look way more expensive than their price tag.

Holidays aside, not everyone is flush enough to treat themselves to expensive treats every month, so if you're hankering after a little decorative pick-me-up, or a pretty and practical piece for your home, this list is for you.

Definitely worth a mention is the brilliant Stacey Solomon Cast Aluminium Brazier from George Home, now half price, and the gorgeous H&M Home fabric-covered table lamp, which is perfect for adding a bit of mood lighting to your evenings. Special mention too goes to the great value skiffers from Amazon - just the thing for adding a touch of period detailing to your home, all while protecting your skirting boards.

So, depending on what time of the day it is, grab yourself a cuppa or a cocktail, and check out my top 20 buys below - and don't forget to check back next month for a whole new list of treats...

There are many things you might want to do this summer, but I'm pretty sure that dealing with a bed bug infestation is not one of them.

Unfortunately, pest experts warn that hot weather combined with summer holidays and increased travel can equal the perfect conditions for bed bug outbreaks.

So, how do you avoid bringing bed bugs back from holiday and ensure you and your family stay safe from unwelcome hitchhikers? After all, nobody wants to return from holiday only to have to start googling how to get rid of bed bugs.

I asked professional pest experts to share their advice on how to avoid an 'unexpected infestation' in your home this summer.

Why is summer such a problematic time for bed bug infestations? As James Rhoades, founder of specialist bed bug heat treatment company ThermoPest, explains, 'in colder weather, bed bugs slow down and often slip into a semi-dormant state. However, in high temperatures, they begin feeding again.'

'Warmer surroundings speed up their metabolism, helping them lay eggs faster and move around more frequently,' says James, 'and hotels, guest houses, and short-term rentals can become hotspots for bed bugs.'

Unfortunately, if you do knowingly or unknowingly encounter bed bugs on holiday, then, as James says, 'they can easily be brought back from holiday hidden in suitcases or laundry, if they've been placed on bedding, soft furnishings or carpet in a bed bug infested room.

Once in your home, 'bed bugs spread quickly,' says James, which can soon lead to an unexpected infestation. That's why 'early detection and prevention are key.'

This is everything you need to know to avoid bed bugs on holiday, and, most importantly, to protect your home on your return.

How to avoid bringing bed bugs back from holiday

1. Choose your luggage wisely

According to our experts, bed bug prevention begins before we even begin our summer travels, and one of the most important things to consider is your luggage.

That's because 'bed bugs can crawl into your luggage, clothing and other personal items, and you can bring them home without even knowing,' explains Mihail Velev, pest control technician at Fantastic Pest Control.

However, luckily some expert knowledge can help here. 'Bed bugs find it harder to climb onto hard surfaces, so opt for hard-case luggage rather than a fabric one,' advises James.

You might also want to pick a light-coloured plastic suitcase, says Mihail. 'Bed bugs are less attracted to plastic, and the lighter colour makes them easier to spot.'

2. Do a thorough inspection of your hotel room

Next up, our experts recommend having a 'bed bug prevention' plan in place for arrival at your holiday accommodation. And as Mihail warns, don't assume that just because your accommodation looks well-maintained, you don't still need to be cautious.

'It’s false to assume that bed bug infestations only happen to dirty properties,' says Mihail. 'Many luxurious hotels get infested by these pests, and they can be found in well-maintained homes as well as in dirty ones.'

Best practice means 'not placing your luggage on the bed as soon as you arrive,' says James. 'First, inspect the mattress by pulling back the sheets and checking the seams and corners for dark spots. Also check the headboard and any upholstered furniture for telltale signs of bed bugs such as tiny rust-coloured spots or shed skins.'

'If you suspect bed bugs or an infestation, request a new room immediately, ideally as far away from the affected area as possible,' says James.

3. Protect your luggage

Then, protect your luggage from unwanted intruders throughout your trip. 'Luggage is the easiest way to bring bed bugs home, especially after being in a confined space,' says James.

Instead of placing your luggage on the floor, bed, or an upholstered chair where bed bugs might be hiding, 'store it on a metal rack,' advises James. 'Bed bugs struggle to climb smooth surfaces.'

No metal luggage rack in the room? Then consider 'placing your belongings on a tile floor away from any upholstered furniture,' advises Mihail. The bathroom can be a good option here.

Then, throughout your holiday, 'if possible, keep your luggage closed or zipped up at all times,' says James, 'or use large plastic bags to seal your luggage throughout your stay.'

4. Protect clothing during your trip

Next up, protect your clothing during your stay. 'It’s common for bed bugs to easily hide in your clothes, so it’s especially important to protect your clothes when travelling, even the clothes you travelled in,' says James.

'Bed bugs tend to gravitate towards the scent of humans, so keep your worn/dirty clothes in a separate plastic bag until you can wash them.'

'Don’t leave your clothes out, especially if you suspect bed bugs; try keeping them in vacuum-sealed bags during your trip to prevent them from getting in.'

5. Check your luggage upon return home

'Coming home is when bed bugs often make their way into your living space,' warns James. To avoid this, 'unpack everything, directly into the washing machine and run a hot wash.'

'Wash all your clothes and fabric items in hot water, regardless of whether you’ve used them or not,' agrees Mihail.

'Then, visually inspect your suitcase inside and out, paying close attention to pockets, seams, and linings for any signs of bed bugs such as dark spots, shed skins, or live insects,' says James.

'If you travel frequently, making this a routine step can help you spot potential issues early before they spread.'

6. Reduce hiding spots in the bedroom

It can also be useful to take preventative measures once you return home, that way any unwelcome hitch hikers can be easily spotted.

'Bed bugs like to stay hidden during the day and emerge at night to feed,' explains James. 'The more cluttered your sleeping area is, the more places they have to conceal themselves.'

'Keep floors, bedside tables, and the space around your bed clear of excess items to make it harder for them to find shelter,' advises James.

7. Wash bedding regularly

You might also want to up your bedding washing schedule for the first few weeks after your trip away, and if you can, use a hotter wash than normal.

'Heat is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs at every stage of life, from eggs to adults,' explains James.

'If you suspect an issue, make sure to wash your bedding regularly at 60°C or higher and follow with a hot tumble dry. This ensures that any insects or eggs clinging to the fabric are destroyed.'

For items that can't be washed, steam cleaning can also kill bed bugs that might be lurking inside.

Follow our experts' top tips, and you'll be able to enjoy your summer travels without bed bugs ruining the holiday vibes.

A pedestal sink in a bathroom can sometimes feel like a curse. As an owner of one myself, the lack of storage is a real issue, particularly in a small bathroom where every inch of space counts.

However, this simply means you have to get creative with how you add clever bathroom storage ideas to a pedestal sink.

The traditional style of a pedestal sink means that there is still significant merit in choosing one, as it can add to the overall look of a classic bathroom design. Depending on how much storage you need, and your personal taste, there will be an idea that suits your sink and bathroom.

1. Fix a sink skirt

As a lover of traditional interior design, this pedestal sink storage idea gets my vote. Sink skirts are commonly used in kitchens to hide appliances, and they are just as useful in a bathroom to add to a pedestal sink.

'A sink skirt is a clever way to reclaim the often-wasted space beneath a pedestal basin. By enclosing the area with fabric, you create a concealed pocket that can house everything from cleaning products to spare toiletries, keeping the room feeling calm and uncluttered without the need for built-in cabinetry,' explains Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'There is also an opportunity to tailor what sits behind the fabric, whether that is simple baskets, stacked containers, or more structured organisers, ensuring the space works as hard as possible while remaining hidden from view,' she adds.

2. Add a cabinet

If you're looking for a more structured storage option, then you're in luck, as there are so many freestanding options that are designed to fit around a pedestal sink.

Whether you prefer trend-inspired rattan front cabinet or traditional Shaker-style doors, there are many budget-friendly options to buy on the high street that add much-needed storage.

While it won't provide a built-in effect, if there isn't anywhere else to include a cabinet in a bathroom (particularly true in small bathrooms), then utilising this under-sink space is crucial.

3. Choose a trolley

Trolleys are one of my favourite storage hacks for a bathroom. It's a little unexpected, but makes perfect sense for a small space where flexibility and versatility is key.

The narrow and tall style of storage trolleys makes them perfect for slotting underneath a pedestal sink, and means it won't take up any extra floor space.

Keeping bathroom essentials close by within the trolley makes for a much more streamlined daily routine, while making the most of unused space.

Looking to spruce up your bathroom scheme ahead of a new season? These are the 2026 bathroom trends that I envision sticking around for next year, so you can design with confidence.

Like anyone, I'm always on the lookout for *that* home buy that is going to improve my life. Whether that is a clever gadget from Lakeland or a new set of bedding, I'm always filled with high hopes at checkout that this is going to be the thing that is going to magically turn me into the 2.0 version of myself. The version that is healthy, organised and productive, with a stylish home to top it all off.

After writing about countless home appliance and home decor launches over the last seven years, and being disappointed by a number I've bought into my home, I've learnt that nothing will turn me into a new person overnight. However, over the years, I have collected several buys that have genuinely improved my life.

These buys have ranged from solutions that have streamlined my home, made it easier to wake up in the morning, to gadgets that have taken the hard work out of weeknight dinners. These are the 7 things in my home that have improved my life, and I would buy again in a heartbeat.

1. Sunrise alarm clock

I've used a sunrise alarm clock for the last seven years, and I credit it entirely with helping me become a morning person. It is the only thing that gets me out of bed for a 6:00 a.m. gym class. It doesn't make waking up easy, but it's certainly easier as the light gradually starts to wake you up 30 minutes before your alarm goes off. I've traded being wrenched out of sleep by an aggressive beep and fumbling around for the light switch for waking up gradually to a bedroom with a light already on, and a gentle chorus of birds tweeting.

A few years ago, I upgraded to the Lumie Bodyclock Luxe 750DAB Wake up to Daylight Table Lamp, £229 at John Lewis. However, before this, I used the Lumie Sunrise Alarm Wake up to Daylight Table Lamp, £49 at John Lewis. While I love my fancy one that has a built-in radio and 20 different wake-up sounds, I'd still recommend the affordable version as a game-changer for early risers. It has a choice of 5 natural sounds to wake you up (my choice has always been the birds), the main difference I noted is that the light is less sunset orange in the cheaper version, but it still does the job.

2. Two-compartment laundry basket

My partner was horrified when he found out I'd spent almost £100 on a laundry basket. But the Joseph Joseph tota laundry separation basket is one of those things that has made my life better by speeding up laundry day. I picked up the Tota 60L Ecru Laundry Separation Basket, £95 at Joseph Joseph during a Black Friday sale, and it's shaved so much time off my weekly chores as my clothes are already divided by colour in a handy bag I can lift out and pour straight into the washing machine.

However, you don't need an expensive laundry basket to feel the benefits. I picked up a second two-compartment laundry basket to use in the spare room for £12 at Primark.

3. Wool duvet

This was an upgrade I made to my bedroom set up two years ago and it has seen me through both freezing winters and the heatwave. Wool is brilliant at temperature regulating, which means it keeps you warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather. It's one of the best duvets for all year-round use.

I have the Deluxe Washable Wool Duvet in Medium, kingside, (was £259, now £194) at Woolroom. It's saved me space in my home as I no longer need to store a winter and a summer duvet. But it's also worked wonders on my sleep. I'm a hot sleeper who suffers from night sweats, but my partner and I have slept so much better since switching to this natural material.

4. Meal planner

Meal planning on a Sunday morning ahead of the weekly shop is a non-negotiable in my household. I plan out the week on a meal planner, before making a shopping list that ensures no food goes to waste, and I'm not stuck wondering what to eat when I'm home late and starving on a Wednesday night.

As a result, I now eat healthier, and I spend alot less on my weekly shop. However, the thing that took my menu planner to the next level was pairing it with a recipe journal filled with all our favourite, tried-and-tested dishes that we like to keep in regular rotation. This has cleared our shelves of all those cookbooks we were keeping for that one recipe, and it means we're not stuck in a rut of repeating the same three recipes every week.

5. Kitchen containers

I spent a very satisfying weekend two years ago measuring my cupboards and taking stock of all the store cupboard essentials I use, before investing in a large set of containers to organise my kitchen cupboards. Now I couldn't fathom the idea of leaving flour or pasta in the bag on a shelf, not in a container.

I have a mix of clear clip-top plastic containers and Kilner jars that keep all the messier ingredients neatly contained. I also never overbuy store cupboard essentials as I can easily see at a glance if we're running low.

For items such as tins, stock cubes, pulses and seeds that I can't decant or don't have space to, I keep them neatly contained in wire baskets and mini crates so I can easily find them.

6. Air fryer

Whilst we're talking kitchens, I can't overlook the kitchen appliance that has most improved my life, my air fryer. I have ALOT of kitchen appliances in my home, including a bean-to-cup coffee machine, which I love. Yet, nothing has had as big an impact on my day-to-day life as the air fryer.

Air fryer dinner has become shorthand in my house for an easy, fast meal. We keep the freezer stocked with sweet potato fries and salmon that can be thrown into the air fryer for a quick, healthy midweek meal.

But it's not just these lazy instant meals; it's made a difference too. My partner and I strategically use the air fryer to speed up other meals, from fajitas to roast dinners. Once you've cooked halloumi or salmon in an air fryer, you'll never go back, trust me.

6. Coat rail

I have a larger collection of coats than most people, and rather than struggle with a coat rack, with many coats getting forgotten about at the bottom, I use a clothes rail to store them on.

Even when I lived in a tiny flat, I sacrificed part of the hallway to be used for a movable clothes rail that held my and my flatmates' coats. In my current flat, I have a version of the IKEA KALLSO hat rack that has hooks and a rail so I can hang up bags behind the rail, and it takes up no additional floor space.

Grabbing the right coat when speeding out the door is infinitely easier when you're not worried about upsetting a mountain of coats on a hook.

7. Storage stools

Storage stools are a godsend for any household if you want it to look neat and tidy with next to no effort. I bought my first one for my dressing table a few years ago from B&Q to hide my hair tools and toiletry bags in, so they weren't cluttering up my bedroom.

I've since added to my collection with a Swyft Storage 03 Ottoman in a Morris & Co pattern. I have one in the bedroom and one in the hallway to store the hoards of umbrellas, handheld fans and shopping bags that would be cluttering up the floor otherwise.

These buys won't turn you into a new person over night, but I can promise that they will help improve it and make some of those trickier tasks a little bit easier.

Around 10 months ago I reviewed the Lakeland Only Pan and was impressed by its performance and price tag. It even made its way onto our list of best non-stick frying pans, so when Lakeland launched the Pro version, I was all ears.

At £85, it’s only £25 more than the original Only Pan, but its stainless steel finish and hybrid PFAS free non-stick interior (think Hexclad) combine to make this a far more enticing product for serious foodies.

It doesn’t have the pastel coloured appeal of its cheaper sibling, but offers a more professional appearance. What’s more, it can also go in the oven and grill. So I got my hands on a sample and put it through its paces to see how it compares and whether it's worth the extra cash.

In a nutshell

The Lakeland 10-in-1 Tri-Ply Only Pan Pro is a sturdy stainless steel pan with an aluminium core for fast, even heating. It comes with a stainless steel lid, steamer basket, and a silicone spatula. Its ceramic hybrid interior offers non-stick cooking without PFAS chemicals, and the scratch resistant design allows you to use metal utensils.

Suitable for all hob types as well as the oven and grill, the deep sides make it a multi-purpose pan that can be used for anything from steaming vegetables, to slow cooking a chilli and plenty in between. The price is very reasonable, but die-hard dishwasher fans take note, for longevity it really should be hand washed.

I found the non-stick coating to be very effective and there wasn’t anything I used it for, that didn’t cook perfectly. If safety is a big concern in your household, if children cook with you for example, be aware that the helper handle and the lid handle get hot. On the whole though, I think it’s a great all-rounder that’ll work hard in your kitchen.

Who reviewed this pan?

Unboxing and first impressions

There weren’t any surprises when I removed this pan from its packaging, which is mostly cardboard, with the addition of a few plastic bags. My first impression was that the quality appears to be great. It combines all the hardwearing, long lasting qualities of stainless steel, with what looks to be a hardwearing non-stick interior.

At about 1.35kg, the pan itself is weighty, so having the second helper handle opposite the main handle, will certainly come in handy when it’s full. The stainless steel lid appears to fit well, and the steamer basket simply widens the scope of what can be cooked in the pan.

Personally, I’d have loved the spatula to be metal, as I’m trying to move away from plastic and silicone utensils, but that’s a minor issue. It’ll definitely come in handy.

You don’t get an instruction manual with it. Instead, most of the info about use and care is printed on the back of the box. I knew the pan was recommended to be washed by hand, but had hoped the spatula, lid, and steamer basket would be listed as dishwasher safe, no such luck though.

Cooking in the Lakeland 10-in-1 Tri-Ply Only Pan Pro

Pan fry

Call me crazy, but the first thing I made in this pan was a three egg cheese omelette for my lunch. It’s a bit risky in a pan you haven’t used before, but thankfully worked out well. The omelette cooked evenly and the only issue I had was that the deep sides of the pan made it difficult to fold and roll the cooked omelette. Nevertheless, I managed it and ended up with a very tasty lunch.

Continuing on the egg theme, the following day I used it for a couple of fried eggs. I heated a splash of oil over a medium heat and then cracked in two eggs. It was immediately obvious that the non-stick was doing its job, and the spatula slid under them easily.

The two eggs cooked evenly and quite quickly, it was an effortless experience with no sticking to worry about. The only slight frustration, again, was that due to it having higher sides than a normal frying pan, I found it a bit awkward to get the spatula in at the right angle to pick up the eggs. Though not a big enough issue to deter me from frying eggs in it again.

When frying sliced halloumi, I kept the pan on a medium/ high heat to ensure it browned and crisped nicely. The result was great, but I did notice that the parts of the halloumi closest to the centre of the pan didn’t brown quite so well as at the edges.

I think the uneven browning happened because the pan is ever so slightly convex, meaning there's a bit of a dome in the centre so the oil pools around the outside. You don’t notice it much, but on this occasion it made a difference to the browning.

Other things I successfully fried included a butterflied chicken breast, a salmon fillet, and I even used it to dry fry a home made flatbread. No matter what task I threw at it, it was up to the job.

Simmer and saute

For a tasty weeknight Indonesian prawn curry, I sauteed onions before adding spices and a curry paste. The addition of coconut milk created a sauce, and then I added my vegetables. After simmering for a while, I popped in my raw prawns.

During all the sauteing and simmering, I noticed the pan was responsive to changes in the hob temperature, so it was easy to control the heat in the pan without anything burning or becoming overcooked.

Similarly, when I cooked a big batch of bean chilli, I sauteed the vegetables and spices without any sticking or burning. Then I used the steamer basket as a colander to drain and rinse my tinned beans.

I simmered the chilli on the hob for 30 minutes with the lid off, to reduce it down slightly. Then I put it in the oven for an hour at 150C with the lid on. This thickened it further and helped develop a richer flavour.

The pan fits easily in my oven, but it has to sit diagonally on the shelf. The finished chilli was super tasty and the pan came out of the oven with no warping. I love that I can pop it in the oven, this is the kind of versatility I want from my cookware.

Stir fry

It was just big enough to make a prawn and vegetable stir fry for two hungry adults. It got nice and hot and cooked the stir fry vegetables perfectly. Everything cooked evenly, with just the right hint of char. I was using raw prawns, which I added near the end, and they too cooked to perfection.

Boil

A pan this shape and size wouldn’t be my usual choice to boil up a big batch of rice, but I gave it a go nevertheless. First I emptied a kettle full of boiling water into the pan. I was doing some batch cooking for the freezer, so I added 450g brown basmati and simmered with the lid on for 24 minutes.

It didn’t ever boil over, but water did slowly continuously dribble down the outside of the pan during cooking, leaving it with a bit of a scummy coating to be washed off. The rice itself cooked beautifully though.

There wasn’t much water left to drain away at the end, but even so, I emptied the rice out into the steamer basket, which worked as a great colander to allow excess water to escape.

Steam

Broccoli is my favourite steamed vegetable, so I chopped a large head of broccoli into similar sized florets. For the amount of water, I winged it and threw in a mug full of boiling water from the kettle.

I then popped in the stainless steel steamer basket filled with the broccoli and simmered it with the lid on, on a medium heat. It took eight minutes for the broccoli to soften to my preferred, slightly al dente texture.

It’s worth noting that the lid handle gets hot, so you need an oven glove to lift it off. I then had to use a fork to lift the handles of the steamer basket so that I could grab them with an oven mit. But all in all I was pleased with the result.

What's it like to clean?

It is recommended that you wash this pan by hand, and to be honest I was completely unbothered by this. During testing, I had no issues with sticking, so cleaning it in the sink was quick and easy.

The stainless steel exterior does need a bit of a buff to keep it looking shiny, and like all stainless steel, it’ll probably need a deeper clean from time to time, but the non-stick on the inside stayed pristine.

The only issue was the band of stainless steel just above the non-stick. This part did very quickly become stained with brown fatty deposits, so it’ll need a regular scrub with something like bicarbonate of soda to keep this area clean.

How does it compare to similar pans?

In comparison to the Lakeland 8-in-1 Only Pan, it’s without a doubt a big step up in quality. For an extra £25, if you can stretch the budget, the Only Pan Pro is worth the investment. Okay, so it doesn’t look quite as pretty as the pastel coloured Only Pan, but what it lacks in style, it makes up for in quality. Plus it can go in the oven and grill, so it’s even more versatile.

And in comparison to the very premium Our Place Always Pan Pro I think you’ll be pushed to justify paying almost double for a similar style pan. I would argue that for most home cooks, the Lakeland Only Pan Pro will offer exactly the right amount of functionality and durability at the most cost effective price.

Should you buy the Lakeland 10-in-1 Tri-Ply Only Pan Pro?

As I said above, if you can afford it, my advice is absolutely go for this over the original Lakeland Only Pan. It’s more durable, has a longer guarantee, and gives you the option to use it in the oven and grill too. And in my book, a non-stick pan that allows you to use metal utensils is an absolute winner.

There aren’t many downsides, yes you have to hand wash it, but most decent quality pans recommend hand washing these days. The main handle stays cool most of the time, but the lid handle and helper handle can get hot, which is something to consider. The main takeaway though, is that in terms of performance it’s absolutely up to the job.

Queer Eye fans buckle up! Tan France has released his first collection of furniture and homeware, created in collaboration with Castlery. The Tan France x Castlery range includes 18 products, each designed by Tan himself in partnership with the furniture brand.

While Tan is known primarily as the fashion expert and stylist on the popular TV show Queer Eye, he’s been active in the home and interiors space, too, especially since renovating his gorgeous Salt Lake City home, all documented in detail by Architectural Digest – from Tan’s choice of kitchen worktops to the exact paint shades in every room. So a full homeware collection designed by Tan is an exciting prospect – and one that did not disappoint as it’s stylish, unique and full of thoughtful details.

The range is already available to shop online now, but as a fan of Tan's home already, I couldn't resist asking him which pieces he’s most obsessed with and which already have a place in his home.

What to expect from the range

Tan’s British-Pakistani heritage was the main source of inspiration behind the look and the motifs of the pieces. ‘The scalloped details from South Asia and England are something that I saw dotted around my house, but also around the UK on what were traditional English buildings,’ Tan told Ideal Home. ‘That was the main inspiration behind the collection. I wanted the collection to feel so singular. One that could truly have only been created by me, so using my two cultural touch points felt like the right jumping off point.’

These references are obvious in everything from the engravings on the legs of the Anaya tea table - that’s right, no coffee table here - to the shape of the Anika table lamp and the aforementioned scalloping of the Rayan mirror.

Originally from Singapore, Castlery (much like Tan) is a very international brand. So the partnership was a good fit for both sides. ‘Before I joined them for the collaboration, I went to visit their store in Singapore to make sure I loved the quality and that this was going to be the right fit for me. I'm over the moon with how it all went. They agreed to let me design whatever I wanted to, as opposed to selecting new colours and fabrics of what they already make, which was a major plus point for me,’ Tan says.

Tan’s top pieces

Even though Tan has designed every single piece in the range and therefore loves them all, of course, there are a handful of products that stand out even in his eyes, including the iconic-looking modular sofa called the Kagan sofa, defined by wood panel inserts and carved, vintage-style wooden legs.

‘I am obsessed with my lamp. I think it's the perfect balance of play and sophistication to bring newness to any space. And I'm crazy about my sofa. I think the wooden details make it feel so darn unique. I have the lamps in my home already and love them. I also have the side table which I think is stunning,’ Tan says.

But he predicts it will likely be the home accessories that will be the most popular with customers, the Anika table lamp included, of course. ‘I think the accessories will be the most popular as they’re easy to style, add pops of interest and are really well priced,’ he concludes.