Your Home 2024 (Issue 04)

bro u

BUILDING WORK/EXTENSIONS • KITCHENS • INTERIORS • BATHROOMS • GARDENS gh

t to

you by

ISSUE 04 2024 Your Home 2024 | 1

Tel: 01986 872882 Email: mail@mgcservices.org

www.halesworthplumbingandheating.com

HEATING & PLUMBING • BOILER SERVICING • BATHROOMS

We can provide you with the following:

HEATING • Gas Safe Registered for both LPG and Natural Gas • Gas boilers serviced • Complete heating systems installed or current heating systems upgraded • Additional radiators installed or radiators relocated • Gas leaks detected and repaired • Landlord Gas Safety Records (CP12s) carried out • Landlord Legionnaires Disease risk assessment carried out • Central heating ‘Jetflushing’ carried out • Fault finding on problematic heating systems • Building Regulation water quality checks carried out PLUMBING • Taps repaired/replaced • Dishwashers/washing machines plumbed-in or relocated • Outside taps installed • Hot water cylinders - Vented & unvented • All types of pipework repaired or replaced – Water Regulations Accredited BATHROOMS • Full/Part bathrooms supplied and fitted • Bath to walk-in shower conversions • Project management/Turn key installations We take pride in providing quality work using experienced Craftsmen and are fully insured. For a reliable and courteous service contact Clive Mitchell.

40 2 | Your Home 2024

WELCOME...

Welcome to the fourth edition of Your Home! We hope that you will find inspiration for your next home improvement project. Whether you are embarking on a fullblown extension or just looking for hints and tips on how to refresh and make the most of the space you already have, there is something for everyone here.

Happy home improving!

CONTENTS...

EXPANDING YOUR HORIZONS CREATING YOUR DREAM KITCHEN WITH JOHN LEWIS KITCHEN RETAIL TOP PICKS NORFOLK LUXURY FURNITURE INTERIOR RETAIL TOP PICKS ELEVATE YOUR BATHROOM SPACE BATHROOM RETAIL TOP PICKS THE 4 GARDENING SEASONS WITH TOM STROWLGER

5 & 7-8 11-12 13 15-16 19 21-22 24 27-28

PUBLISHING TEAM...

EDITOR – David Burns ADVERTISING SALES – Karen Taylor & Kasey Turner DESIGN & PRODUCTION – Polly Coleman MANY THANKS TO CONTRIBUTORS – John Lewis Norwich, Laura Ruddy, Tom Strowlger Proudly published and printed in Suffolk by Community News and Micropress Printers Ltd. Copyright is with Community News. Reproduction in part or whole is forbidden without the express permission of the publishers.

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in this publication is correct at the time of going to press.

The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions.

Community News, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6DH T: 01502 725837 E: info@yourcommunitynews.co.uk W: www.yourcommunitynews.co.uk

k

ks

EDIT

ion

&Boo

PAID

Inspirin g Wome n

t

Living

&Fash

&Drin

Abou

Life&

Food

Out&

pick me

up

FREE

WIN

A CHE ST CASTING

thri giftyfty

Charlie

Smith-Kn ight

Empowering women

plus

ShopSEASping

Tanya Mayfield

Start your Txxxxx

Norwich Lanes & St. Benedic ts Street

inspirin

g women Jean Kieko pf

ixxx

VISIT Norw ich

ON

Nor fo w w w.

lk &

November

p l a ce

2023

s a n dfa

Suf fo | Issue

lk

No: 156

ce s .co.u

k

Your Home 2024 | 3

FOR A FREE QUOTE & FRIENDLY SERVICE, CALL: 07810 888 889 E: parkersplumbingandheating@gmail.com W: www.parkersplumbingandheating.co.uk 4 | Your Home 2024

EXPANDING YOUR HORIZONS Building your dream extension

Your home is more than just a structure... It’s a canvas where cherished memories are painted, and dreams unfold. As residents of Norfolk and Suffolk, you appreciate the charm and character that comes with living in this picturesque region.

However, as families grow and lifestyles evolve, the need for additional space becomes apparent.

Building an extension is a fantastic solution to enhance your living experience while preserving the essence of your home. Here, we’ll delve into the do’s and don’ts, the steps involved, and the significance of local businesses when embarking on the journey of expanding your home.

2: Budgeting Wisely Establishing a realistic budget is a pivotal step in your extension journey. Research the average costs of extensions in Norfolk and Suffolk to ensure your financial plan aligns with local construction norms. Factor in design fees, planning application costs, materials, labour, and potential unforeseen expenses. It’s advisable to allocate a contingency fund to account for any unexpected hiccups during the construction process.

Continued on page 7...

1: Dreaming and Planning Before laying the foundation, it’s crucial to have a clear vision of what you want. Start by identifying the purpose of your extension – whether it’s an extra bedroom, a larger kitchen, or a home office. Consider the architectural style of your existing home and how the extension will seamlessly integrate with it. Explore different design inspirations, and don’t hesitate to consult with a local architect and professionals who understand the regional aesthetics and planning regulations of where you live.

Your Home 2024 | 5

Three Counties Fireplaces

Fireplaces Gas & Electric Fire Specialists Media Walls

07395 736445

www.3countiesfireplaces.co.uk info@3countiesfireplaces.co.uk 15B Halesworth Business Centre, Norwich Road, Halesworth, IP19 8QJ 6 | Your Home 2024

...Continued from page 5

3: Navigating Planning Permissions The UK’s planning regulations are in place to maintain the architectural harmony of neighbourhoods. Depending on the scale and nature of your extension, you might need planning permission. Local councils in Norfolk and Suffolk are generally supportive of wellthought-out extensions, but it’s crucial to submit your plans diligently. Engaging with a local planning consultant can streamline this process and ensure your project complies with local guidelines.

4: Selecting the Right Team Building an extension is a collaborative effort that requires lots of skilled professionals.

Prioritise hiring local architects, builders, and tradespeople who are familiar with the unique characteristics of homes in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Local expertise not only ensures compliance with regional building regulations, but also fosters a sense of community and accountability.

5: Designing for Energy Efficiency In an era of environmental consciousness, integrating energy-efficient features into your extension is both responsible and cost-effective.

Discuss insulation options, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient heating systems with your architect and builder. This not only contributes to a greener environment, but also lowers longterm energy costs for your extended home.

6: Breaking Ground With plans in place, permissions granted, and a skilled team on board, it’s time to break ground.

Excavation, foundation laying, and structural work mark the initial phases of the construction process. Local builders, with their knowledge, play a crucial role in ensuring the stability and longevity of your extension.

7: Constructing the Shell As the framework of your extension takes shape, attention turns to constructing the shell.

Local suppliers can provide materials that complement the existing structure, ensuring a harmonious blend between old and new. Regular site visits and communication with your builder are essential to address any concerns promptly and maintain the project’s momentum.

Continued overleaf...

Your Home 2024 | 7

...Continued from page 7

8: Finishing Touches As the structure nears completion, focus shifts to the interior and exterior finishes. Flooring, walls, windows, and doors come together to give your extension its final form. Local craftsmen and suppliers can provide bespoke finishes that capture the essence of traditional craftsmanship.

9: Quality Control The excitement of nearing completion should not overshadow the importance of quality control. Engage with your builder to conduct thorough inspections, ensuring that every aspect of your extension meets the highest standards. This attention to detail guarantees a seamless integration with your existing home and minimises the need for future maintenance.

10: Embracing the Extended Home

Conclusion

With construction completed, it’s time to savour the fruits of your labour. Moving into your extended home is a joyous occasion, marking the beginning of a new chapter. By supporting local businesses, you’ve not only expanded your home but also enriched the community.

Building an extension is a transformative journey that can enhance both your living space and the charm of your home. From dreaming and planning to embracing the finished product, every step requires thoughtful consideration and a commitment to local collaboration. By partnering with skilled professionals in your community, you’re not just building an extension – you’re shaping the future of your home and contributing to the vitality of your local environment.

If you need some more help or advice, there are plenty of builders, electricians, plumbers, painters & decorators and planning professionals that advertise in your local Community News papers.

Pick up a copy locally or visit our website: www.yourcommunitynews.co.uk to get in contact with someone that can help and advise you withyour building requirements.

8 | Your Home 2024

Duncan & son (SOUTHWOLD) LTD

BUILDING CONTRACTORS

Free Estimates New Homes Extensions Commercial Work Decorators & Plumbers 31 Fountain Reydon Business Unit 20,Way, Southwold Business Centre, Park, Reydon,St.Southwold, IP18 6SZ Edmunds Road,

Windows • Conservatories • Doors • Roofline • Porches • Cladding • Guardian Warm Roofs • and more!

Tel: 01502 IP18 723636 Southwold, 6JU

Tel: 01502 723636 Fax: 01502 722223 enquiries@duncanandson.co.uk

Call for a free design consultation on

01986 874241

enquiries@duncanandson.co.uk www.duncanandson.co.uk www.duncanandson.co.uk

SHOWSITES: Bressingham Garden Centre, Diss • Homebase, Lowestoft • Dobbies Garden Centre, Woodbridge • Head Office, Norwich Road, Halesworth

www.waveney-windows.co.uk

       

       

Your Home 2024 | 9

KITCHENSENSE of Harleston

62 London Road, Harleston, Norfolk IP20 9BZ

HANDMADE FURNITURE, FITTED WARDROBES, CABINETS, STORAGE SOLUTIONS, HANDMADE KITCHENS, JOINERY & LUXURY LIGHTING

Quality and Service at a realistic price Fitted Kitchen & Bedroom Specialists

KITCHEN • BATHROOM • BEDROOM SPECIALIST ASSOCIATION

Tel: (01379) 852592 Fax: (01379) 854411

web site: www.kitchen-sense.co.uk email: staff@kitchen-sense.co.uk

10 | Your Home 2024

07969 240523 www.storm-furniture.co.uk Email: terry@storm-furniture.co.uk

Puritan Set-of-4 27.8cm Stoneware Dinner Plates in Damson, £35, John Lewis

Nordlux Theo 3 Pendant Bar Ceiling Light in Black, £120, John Lewis

ANYDAY Check Terry Cotton Tea Towel in Grey, £5, John Lewis

CREATING YOUR DREAM KITCHEN with John Lewis If you are looking for some kitchen or dining inspiration, then you’ve come to the right place.

Here at John Lewis, we have a range of kitchenware that creates a big impact on your space. Whether you have a small compact area or open plan living, we have products that are both beautiful and functional. The kitchen is often considered to be the heart of the home and a social gathering place for family and friends at all times of the year. www.johnlewis.com

When it comes to designing your perfect kitchen area, you want to consider colours, tones and textures. Adding texture creates more depth and interest. For example, using products such as a rug under the kitchen table or a mix of materials including wood and metal tones. Pops of colour can add substance. An easy way is through artwork, kitchen towels, crockery or a bright kitchen appliance.

Traditionally green is used in kitchens as they are associated with nature and food. It is also a very calming colour, creating a peaceful aesthetic. Colours such as yellow brighten the space, enhancing your mood. However colour is in the eye of the beholder and what makes one person feel great, may not always work for someone else.

Continued overleaf...

Please note: All prices and information correct as of November 2023.

Your Home 2024 | 11

Soft Speckle Glaze Stoneware 400ml Mug in Caramel, £5, John Lewis

...Continued from page 11

If you have an open plan area, zoning through colours or lighting can bring the space together to give it that homely and coherent aesthetic. Low pendant lighting can give a cosy, intimate and atmospheric feel while dining. Painting a deeper tone in one area can provide a feature and bring a contrasting feel to that part of the room; whilst keeping the spaces immersed together.

Greener products such as our recycled plastic placemats/coasters and our recycled bubble jug adds that natural element to your kitchen/dining space, whilst being considerate of the environment.

So, if you are looking for a kitchen/dining redesign or a quick refresh, we have a wide range of products in store and online. If you would like some assistance, book a free home design service appointment at John Lewis by scanning the QR code or on our website - under services.

Right: LIGA Set-of-4 Beach Clean Cork Round Placemats, £28, John Lewis Below: ANYDAY Wilton 4 Seater Round Dining Table in Linen, £329, John Lewis

EAST END PRINTS Fox & Velvet 'Espresso Martini' & Inoui ‘Croissant’ Framed Prints with Black Frames, 33.4cm x 28.4cm, £40 each, John Lewis

www.johnlewis.com

12 | Your Home 2024

Please note: All prices and information correct as of November 2023.

Kitchens LITTLE DETAILS CAN MAKE A BIG IMPACT...

1

3

2

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

1. 272ml Green Bubble Wine Glass £8 & matching 1.1L Jug £25, John Lewis. 2. Inka 3 Light Concrete Wood Effect Spotlight £32, Dunelm. 3. Russell Hobbs Rise & Shine 4 Slice Toaster £70 & Matching Kettle £70, both EmmaBridgewater.co.uk. 4.

Head Chef Sous Chef Blue Ceramic Mugs Set of 2 £28, Oliver Bonas. 5. Mason Cash In The Meadow Mixing Bowl Set £79.95, SilverMushroom.com. 6. M&S Collection Set of 2 Bobble Stem Coupes £15, M&S. 7. Taylor’s Eye Witness Syracuse Ash Wood Filled Knife Block 5-Piece Set £97, John Lewis. 8. Habitat Monochrome Set of 4 Fine China Mugs £14, Argos. 9. Evimsaray Grande Series 7-Piece Non-Stick Granite Red Cookware Set £149.90, The Range. 10. Le Creuset Stoneware 12-Piece Volcanic Dinnerware Set £179, John Lewis. 11. Bronx Kitchen Wall Storage £40, NEXT. 12. Matt Navy Copper Kettle and Toaster Set £76, Dunelm. Please note: All prices and information correct as of November 2023.

Your Home 2024 | 13

www.thehalesworthcarpetshop.co.uk

THE HALESWORTH CARPET SHOP CARPETS | RUGS | NATURAL FLOORINGS | CURTAINS & BLINDS | BEDS & MATTRESSES GREAT SERVICE AND GREAT PRICES

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT: 42 Thoroughfare, Halesworth IP19 8AR Telephone: 01986 872222

14 | Your Home 2024

INTERIOR TRENDS

E

K

LU

X U RY F U R NI T

UR

Interior Designer Laura Ruddy, owner of the stylish Norfolk Luxury Furniture, gives us advice to keep our homes on-trend this year.

Norfolk Luxury Furniture is a new online company that specialises in supplying on-trend, desirable items of furniture and furnishings. The owner, Laura Ruddy, set up the business after spending many hours searching the internet for quality, luxurious items at competitive prices.

NOR

FO

L

THE BEAUTY OF FAUX

THE BEST PAINT FINISHES FOR YOUR HOME There’s a basic rule of thumb to follow when choosing paint finishes. Paint comes in a variety of sheens, from matt to high-gloss. Each one offers different benefits; matt paint is easy to touch up, while high gloss is the most durable. For a more balanced look, choose from eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss sheens.

Our suggestions on each room type include:

Artificial plants have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their low maintenance and long-lasting beauty.

The faux orchid below boasts a botanical accuracy second to none. It would look fantastic as a dining table or kitchen island centrepiece.

For those looking to add a touch of greenery to the home without having to worry about maintenance, faux flowers and plants can be a great option. They require zero upkeep and provide a beautiful accent to any room whilst bringing a touch of nature to your space. With a variety of sizes, we have something to fit every need.

- Kitchen: High gloss or semi-gloss finish, Easy to clean and durable - Living Room: Satin Finish, Easily cleaned and can stand up to high traffic - Dining Room: Eggshell, Easy to clean, smoothlooking walls for a low-traffic area - Bedroom: Matt Finish, High-pigment wall coverage for low-traffic areas

3

GET THE LOOK!

1. Zitelle Dining Table 2. Toletta Mirror 3. Maive Chandelier 4. Venarta Trolley 5. Garia Trolley 6. Churchill Table Lamp all by RV Astley from www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com

2

6

5

4

1 www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com @norfolkluxuryfurniture

Continued overleaf...

Your Home 2024 | 15

...Continued from page 15

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CHANDELIER Chandeliers come in a variety of styles, from classic crystal to modern and contemporary designs. Chandeliers can make a bold statement and can instantly transform a room into a sophisticated space.

Hang an eye-catching chandelier above your dining table and create the perfectly finished dining area. When choosing statement lighting, it's important to consider several factors to ensure that it compliments your space and serves its purpose effectively. Here are some tips to consider to help you make the right choice: size of the room, the purpose of the lighting, style of your space, the ceiling height and last but not least - don’t be afraid at experimenting in different shapes and materials.

The light to the right is the Eros Chandelier by RV Astley.

PLUMP IT UP Refresh your interior with the addition of our neutral-coloured cushions. Their warm tones and textures will set a great ambience in your home, instantly transforming the look of your living space.

Laura Loves

Chiya Jacquard Cushion in Wild Rose by Romo

Aletta Cushion in Pewter by Romo

Margaux Cushion

by Soho Home

Chiraco Cushion in Sorbet by Romo

SOPHIE ALLPORT One of my go-to websites for tableware and generally something a little different for the home is sophieallport. com. I love their tableware, and they have some great product themes throughout the year too.

Last year, I purchased some lovely Christmas-themed table wear, but you will have to be quick - as they do sell out quite quickly! www.sophieallport.co.uk 16 | Your Home 2024

www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com - @norfolkluxuryfurniture

W A V E N E Y

STOVES

Sh ow Tu room eSa ope t! n

& FIREPLACES

• Wood, multifuel & electric stoves & fires • Fireplace surrounds, hearths & accessories • Chimney lining & fireplace alterations • Installed by qualified HETAS engineers

Waveney Range Cookers - NOW OPEN -

123 Old Yarmouth Rd, Ellingham, Bungay NR35 2PG Oil, Gas, Electric01508 & 518863 www.waveneystoves.co.uk Woodburning Range Cookers

Gas, electric and solid fuel-fires and stoves

18 Display Cookers Stocking:

We guarantee:

01508 518 863

• Friendly and efficient service • Expert technical advice • Competitive prices • The best products • A large showroom • Hetas approved installations Come in any time to have a chat or Your Home 2024 | 17 simply browse our showroom.

123a Old Yarmouth Road, Ellingham (nr Bungay), NR35 2PG

109585

www.waveneystoves.co.uk

Visit our showroom to see more Gosford Road, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 9QP | 01502 714008 www.becclescarpetcentre.co.uk

Furniture | Beds | Mattresses | Soft Furnishings | Home Accessories | Lighting | & More!

Part of Beccles Carpet & Rug Centre 18 | Your Home 2024

Interiors LITTLE DETAILS CAN MAKE A BIG IMPACT...

1

2

3

5 8 4

6 7

10

9

1. Metal Effect 3D Stag Head Wall Art £40, NEXT. 2. Winter Botanical Large Candle £45, The White Company. 3. Hill Interiors Large Stone Capri Lamp £169.99, Norfolk Luxury Furniture. 4. Nkuku Abe Velvet Armchair £1,200, John Lewis. 5. Peace Bird Cushion £25, John Lewis. 6. Olbia Textured Velvet Cushion £45, John Lewis. 7. Charcoal Grey Swoon Charleston Cushion £40, NEXT. 8. Black Culver Jar £50, The White Company. 9. Wylder Nature Wallflower Duvet Cover & Pillowcase Set £30£50, Dunelm. 10. Grey Herringbone Eyelet Blackout Curtains £59-£129, M&S Collection.

Please note: All prices and information correct as of November 2023.

Your Home 2024 | 19

Family run business for 30 years

BEAUTIFUL FLOORING, BEAUTIFULLY FITTED Carpets •Vinyls Karndean Flooring Carpet Tiles •Remnants •New modern showroom •Much more on display •Large FREE car park •Good selection of roll stock

Trinity Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR31 1XJ 01502 516679 • 07831 275348 sales@guyscarpets.co.uk • www.guyscarpets.co.uk 20 | Your Home 2024

ELEVATE YOUR BATHROOM SPACE Trends, Do's and Don'ts & Renovation Advice When it comes to interior design, bathrooms can often get overlooked, but they are an integral part of any home. They can be more than just functional spaces; bathrooms can offer a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Here, we explore current bathroom trends, provide some helpful do's and don'ts, and offer valuable advice on renovating your bathroom to transform it into a stylish and functional haven.

Current Bathroom Trends: • Nature-inspired aesthetics: Natural materials such as wood, stone, and organic textures have gained a lot of popularity this year. Incorporate these natural elements to bring a touch of the outdoors inside.

Earthy tones and greenery add a sense of calm and relaxation.

• Minimalist elegance: Clean lines, neutral colour palettes, and simple yet high-quality fixtures are really in right now. A minimalist design is not only timeless, but can create a sense of spaciousness and tranquillity.

• Statement tiles: Large-format tiles, bold patterns, and unique shapes are making a statement in modern bathrooms. They add such character and create a bold and iconic focal point.

• Free-standing tubs: A free-standing bathtub can be the centrepiece of your bathroom, providing a luxurious spa-like experience. Select from various materials and styles to suit your space.

• Smart tech: Incorporating smart features, such as motion-sensor lighting, heated floors, and voiceactivated fixtures, can enhance convenience and energy efficiency.

Continued overleaf...

Your Home 2024 | 21

Do's: • Plan carefully: Take the time to plan your renovation thoroughly. Really consider your layout, plumbing, and electrical needs before diving into a project.

A lot of shops will help with the planning process too if you’re unsure of what direction to take it in or need some ideas for your space.

• Invest in quality: Invest in durable fixtures and materials. Quality pays off in the long run, ensuring your bathroom stands the test of time. Buy cheap...

Buy twice!

• Maximize storage: Opt for practical storage solutions to keep your bathroom clutter-free.

Cabinets, floating shelves, and hidden nooks can help.

• Lighting matters: Layered lighting with ambient, task, and accent lighting can create a welcoming atmosphere. Natural light is always a great choice if this is possible.

• Personalise with accessories: Add a touch of your personality with carefully chosen accessories to suit your style, like mirrors, artwork, and textiles.

These small details can make a big difference. Take a look at some of our favourites on page 24.

Don'ts: • Neglect ventilation: Adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent mould and mildew. Ensure your bathroom has a proper exhaust fan to maintain air quality.

• Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding with too many decorative items or fixtures. A cluttered space could become stressful and dysfunctional.

• Choose style over comfort: While aesthetics are important, never compromise on comfort and functionality. Ensure your bathroom is comfortable for everyday use.

• Neglect eco-friendly options: Consider eco-friendly options, such as low-flow toilets and water-saving taps, to reduce water consumption and save on your energy bills.

• Rush: A rushed renovation can lead to mistakes and unsatisfactory results. Patience and attention to detail are key to a successful project.

Renovation Advice: • Set a budget: Determine your budget before starting the renovation. This will guide your choices and help prevent overspending.

• Hire professionals: We’d always recommend that you hire professionals that know what they’re doing, especially for complex tasks like plumbing and electrical work.

It’s all well and good hiring someone who can do it on the cheap, but mistakes will often be made this way and can become very costly to then fix and put right. You want to make sure your home is functional, safe and well put-together, so hiring professionals is so important.

Your local Community Newspapers will have a whole host of professional tradespeople inside, so do have a look in your copy to find local tradespeople in your area that can help you. You can also use the website: checkatrade.com to find local, guaranteed professional tradespeople.

• Personalise wisely: Balance personal touches with universal appeal. If you plan to sell your home in the future, neutral design elements can increase its market value.

• Test: Test paint colours, tiles, and fixtures in your space before making final decisions. What looks good in a showroom may appear different in your bathroom's lighting.

By following these trends, do's and don'ts, and renovation advice, you can create a bathroom that is not only stylish and on-trend, but also a functional and inviting space to start and end your day. Your bathroom can be a reflection of your personal style and a sanctuary for relaxation. Make it your own, and enjoy the transformation!

22 | Your Home 2024

Andy Frances

Over 35 years’ experience reliable & friendly service.

All domestic

PLUMBING • HEATING • GAS INSTALLATION • MAINTENANCE • REPAIR

Gas boiler servicing • Replacement boilers • Landlord Gas Safety Certificates • Showers & shower pumps • Immersion heaters • Water softeners • Taps • Toilets • Tanks • Cylinders • Unvented cylinders • Megaflo etc

01986 469644 / 07801 988752 www.alwaysplumbingservices.co.uk info@alwaysplumbingservices.co.uk Gas reg: 306633

Your Home 2024 | 23

Bathrooms LITTLE DETAILS CAN MAKE A BIG IMPACT...

3

1

2

4

5 6

8

9 10

11

7 1. 2-Pack Soap Dispenser & Stand £12.50, Matalan. 2. Stannis Reeded Glass Under Sink Unit £229, Dunelm. 3. Joseph Joseph 2-Piece Laundry Basket Set £90, Jarrolds. 4. Bright Floral Bath Mat £18, NEXT. 5. Creative Frameless LED Bathroom Mirror Irregular Fog Free £89.99, The Range. 6. Origin Stripe Towel Range from £8, George at ASDA. 7. Natural Metal Wood 3 Drawers £50, Matalan. 8. Double Toilet Roll Holder & Shelf £8, B&M. 9. Laura Ashley Prague Textured Globe Bathroom Ceiling Light £95, John Lewis. 10. Egyptian Cotton Charcoal Grey Towels from £10-£28, NEXT. 11. Speckled Ceramic Elephant Ring Holder £8, Lisa Angel. Please note: All prices and information correct as of November 2023.

24 | Your Home 2024

Your Home 2024 | 25

SIMONS LANDSCAPING

LTD.

FAMILY RUN BUSINESS SINCE 1980

Tarmac, tar & stone • Block weave • Resin drives • Sleeper/brick walls • Commercial & domestic fencing • Indian sandstone paving • Patios • Paths • Turfing/seeding • Tennis courts • Car parks • Road surfacing

FREE ESTIMATES AND ON-SITE ADVICE FULLY TRAINED AND INSURED WORKFORCE Follow us on Facebook & Instagram to keep up-to-date with our latest projects

CALL NOW TO GET BOOKED IN ONE CALL DOES ALL

01508 470674

enquiries@simonslandscaping.co.uk

The Old Queen’s Head, Lower Tharston, Norwich, NR15 2AF 26 | Your Home 2024

THE 4 GARDENING SEASONS With Tom Strowlger - @garden_with_tom SPRING: When you see the green shoots and floral colour of Spring arriving, it’s that time of year when the garden is coming back to life, with days getting longer, brighter and warmer.

We should allow plants to grow and thrive, so best not to prune whilst in the growing season. The temperatures are on the increase, so remember to water your plants when in a long dry spell. We can now regularly cut our lawn grass, preferably starting on the highest cut for the first few cuts to ensure the grass stays healthy for the peak seasons. We can start planting out Freesia, Dahlia, Begonia, Gladioli, Cosmos and Wildflowers to name but a few ready for the Summer months to come.

SUMMER: Summertime arrives and our gardens are at the peak of the growing season. Lots of plants have established themselves in preparation for the most colourful season of all. We should cut our lawns once a week and ideally no shorter than the middle cutting setting on the lawnmower. If you want more flowers in your garden, then you can hand-sow annual wildflower seed and plant in any nursery grown bedding plants like Geranium, Pansies, Cosmos, Lobelia, Petunia, Rudbeckia, Californian Poppy and Busy Lizzie. We should deadhead flowering plants so to make way for the new buds and flowers. We water at the base of our plants during dry spells either first thing in the morning or mid evening.

Continued overleaf...

Your Home 2024 | 27

AUTUMN: Autumn follows and we can add some seasonal floral colour to brighten up our gardens a little. The best plants for autumn and winter floral colour are Cyclamen, Viola, Winter Pansy and Primroses. They can be planted into pots, tubs, containers, planters, beds and borders. This season is the best time to plant Daffodil, Tulip, Hyacinth, Crocus and Allium bulbs into the garden pots, tubs, beds and borders.

We can plant a formal row of beautiful tulips or randomly scatter daffodil bulbs into borders and beds. That’s the joy of bulb planting, we pick what we want to grow and display, but whatever the preference, we will need a reliable hand trowel and spade. We can give our lawn grass a last trim, I cut my lawn grass no less than 5cm until the clocks change.

WINTER: Winter arrives and we can get amongst woody plants to turn the moist soil with a spade, giving it a refreshed look. The bushes, hedges and shrubs can have a tidying up prune whilst they are dormant. The fallen leaves will naturally accumulate over autumn and winter, so to ensure they don’t suffocate and damage the grass, we should rake leaves off the lawn and sweep them off paths and heap them up onto a compost. If we spot any weeds, lift them and their roots before they become established.

Please do follow me on Instagram @garden_with_tom for more seasonal gardening advice and tips.

If you need some more help or advice, there are plenty of landscapers, gardeners, tree surgeons and gardening professionals that advertise in your local Community News papers.

Pick up a copy locally or visit our website: www.yourcommunitynews.co.uk to get in contact with someone that can help you in your garden!

_tom @garden_with

28 | Your Home 2024

C

M

Y

MC

YM C

YC M

Y

CM

YMC

K

MY

CY

CMY

K

All landscaping tasks undertaken Specialising in water features and ponds All landscaping tasks undertaken Perfectly based on the Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK

Specialising in water features and driveways Perfectly based on the Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK

All landscaping tasks undertaken

Your Home 2024 | 29

EAST ANGLIAN FASCIA & GUTTERING LTD Reliable Roofline Professionals

A family-run business with over 40 years experience

07947 320568

www.eastanglianfasciaandguttering.com

30 | Your Home 2024

Your Home 2024 | 31

wn r o o! u o to ke ms a m oo so edr l a b e W tted fi

J.N. KITCHENS

SIMPLY UNBEATABLE

CREATIVE DESIGNS • BESPOKE MANUFACTURING • CRAFTSMEN INSTALLED

Please call us to arrange for your FREE, no obligation design and quote.

Established in 1980, we have unrivalled experience with thousands of quality kitchen installations throughout Norfolk and Suffolk.

Halesworth open: Monday to Friday 10am-4pm We offer a complete one stop shop service undertaking CARPENTRY • ELECTRICAL • GAS • FLOORING • TILING • HEATING • BUILDING WORK Buying direct from the manufacturer means you get excellent value for money with a 5-year guarantee

HALESWORTH - UNIT 16, HALESWORTH BUSINESS PARK, NORWICH RD, IP19 8QJ LOWESTOFT - UNIT C, RICHARD NARBOROUGH HOUSE, BATTERY GREEN RD, NR32 1DH GREAT YARMOUTH - 12 HAVEN BRIDGE RD, NR31 0HU

FREE 01986 875683 01502 567789 01493 651344 Halesworth

DESIGN | Your Home 2024 &32QUOTE

Lowestoft

Gt Yarmouth

www.jnkitchensandbedrooms.co.uk