42 minute read
LUXURY HOME RENOVATION & INTERIORS GUIDE
THE LUXURY HOME RENOVATION & INTERIORS
GUIDE
Are you looking to modernise your kitchen, rip out the old bathroom or add a conservatory to create your dream home?
[ NEWS ]
INTERIORS
THE TROPICAL WINDOWS
This summer bring a beautiful tropical view to your home with a window view mural by Andrea Haase. These charming designs are perfect for giving your home a new wanderlust perspective. From regal river views for elegant bathrooms to lands of lost jungles for kids’ rooms, the collection offers something for everyone in the family. Sure to give any room a show-stopping feature wall!
Discover the full collection at wallsauce.com.
CHIC PASTELS
Oh So Kel has launched an exciting range of joyful chic home accessories. Made from ‘Jesmonite’, the unique collection of candles, trays and pet bowls feature abstract patterns and pastel hues synonymous with her brand and is a must for adding personality to the home.
ohsokel.com
MAKE A WISH
My little wish have just added new colourful, silk ikat cushions into their collection just in time for the Spring. They come in a variety of stunning designs and colours, plus there are various sizes. You can mix and match or find a style that you love.
mylittlewish.com
GET NAKED
Naked Raku Ceramics - as seen on The Great Pottery Throw Down - by Micucci Interiors Naked Raku is a variation of the raku technique in which a slip is applied to the pot before it is placed in the raku kiln. The slip cracks and breaks apart during the firing and is chipped off after to reveal a blackened crackle pattern. One of our in-house ceramic artists Denis Di Luca figured out a way of adding some colour and drawn imagery in the naked raku technique. Micucci Interiors allows you to add interesting pieces to your interiors, teaming the elegant with the unusual. micucci.co.uk
Origin’s biggest pool trends for 2021
When planning and designing a swimming pool it’s important to understand the clients vision, who will be using it – adults, children, grandchildren? How will it be used – family fun, entertaining, exercise? Where will it be built - in the garden as a stand alone building or as an extension to the house? Origin believe that creating an understanding with the clients ensures that each swimming pool designed and built is unique to them. As 2021 moves forward, more clients are looking to invest more time and resources into creating an enjoyable pool area that provides fun and relaxation away from the day to day routine of the house. Origin have put together a list of some of the most popular trends and ideas to help enhance your pool in 2021. Spa Features
It seems spas always make the list for swimming pool trends and the same is true this year. The distinction lies in the features and types of spas being incorporated into properties and pools. Spas have always been a popular request, for years customers have wanted spas that were separate from the pool or slightly elevated but one of our favourite design trends is incorporating the spa into the interior of the pool or overlapping the pool. This way you don’t have to go far for some post exercise or fun relaxation!
Unique Finishes
Looks and styles change; pool trends that were once chic can sometimes become dated and tired. However, adding a mosaic finish to your
swimming pool can be like adding a piece of art, as it’s one of a kind and brings an element of your personality to a swimming pool that will never go out of style.
Smart LED Lighting
Never underestimate the importance of lighting in your pool house. Today, smart LED lighting features and systems are the way to go. These are easy to monitor, efficient to use, and aesthetically far-superior to conventional lights and fixtures. Technology allows you to manage your lighting from a keypad on the wall or your phone or computer. There is are also a range of colour schemes and brightness options available. Smart lighting can be synched with other entertainment or security systems to keep things simple and streamlined too.
Infinity Pools
Another trend emerging for pools in 2021 is infinity-style, seamless pools. Have you seen a swimming pool that appears to never end? Marrying the pool with its natural environment is a trend that can be achieved with seamless pool edging- it is a breathtaking focal point that you truly must see to appreciate. For homeowners who are looking to ‘up’ their swimming pool game, infinity pools are in.
Landscaping
A swimming pool trend to watch in 2021 is the landscaping that surrounds the pool and pool house, many of us lucky enough to have outside space are investing more time into creating our own ‘garden oasis’. Borders, beds, and plants are all viable options to create a natural and aesthetically pleasing space, and if that’s not your thing hardscapes are the answer to your problems. Hardscapes are non-living features, like rock walls, boulders, fountains, or art, all of these create visual appeal but do not require food, water, and vigilant aftercare.
To speak to the experts at Origin Leisure call 01895 453996 or visit originpools.co.uk for more information and to subscribe to our newsletter. Check out our instagram for the latest in swimming pool inspiration @originpoolsuk
Lagoon Hues
When it comes to pool surfacing and finishes, lighter hues seem to have been the recent popular pick. This year’s pool trend leans away from lighter tones and shifts to dark swimming pool finishes giving the water a ‘lagoon’ type of feel. This is achieved with finishes that are dark blue, green, or even black. As well as providing a tranquil feel to your pool, these darker coloured tiles also absorb more heat, so come summer your water can feel warmer for longer. Additionally, more natural tones are also growing in popularity with stone effect colours providing the perfect backdrop for elegant and understated aqua green/blue shades taking over from the omnipresent blues of recent times.
Caribbean Blinds teams up with GB athletes
External shading manufacturer Caribbean Blinds has completed another expert installation of its awardwinning Outdoor Living Pod™ for a family of Surrey based athletes.
GB Masters competitors Virginia Mitchell (World and European Champion W55 at 400m) and husband Tony (British Champion at 300m hurdles) saw the ongoing lockdown as the perfect opportunity to enhance their home gym and fitness studio which they utilise daily for training sessions, alongside their two grown-up children – also budding track athletes!
Having previously commissioned a large spa pool situated just outside the gym, the Mitchells required a solution that would seamlessly link the two areas. The couple decided that due to its unique louvered roof, the Outdoor Living Pod™ would provide them with the flexible cover they needed.
Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director of Caribbean Blinds, explained:
“Following a full demonstration of the system and provision of samples to showcase the high-quality finish, sleek design and durable construction of our products, the Deluxe model of the Outdoor Living Pod™ was selected. It was installed in January 2021 by our expert team, taking just one day to complete, resulting in an impressive low-maintenance outdoor facility that complements the adjoining gym and spa pool.”
Virginia Mitchell commented: “Every member of the family trains, competes and even coaches within some type of sport, so our fitness studio and pool are the focal point of our garden – and our lives!
“We opted for the Deluxe model of the Pod as we felt it would provide the optimum balance of style and practicality. The beautiful, sleek white canopy roof acts as the perfect link between the gym and the pool, and we’re delighted with how it looks and functions.
“The louvered roof panels cover the spa and protect it from the elements, yet at the flick of a switch, they turn to let in the light and sunshine – plus, we love how the open sides make you feel like you’re still in the natural open space of the garden.”
The addition of the Pod has also been a godsend for Tony who has his own water-based sports rehabilitation business, AquaTone.
Tony Mitchell added: “My business has really thrived in lockdown thanks to the Outdoor Living Pod™. My clients can do their work out in the pool with protection from all elements, all year round and they have been very complimentary about our new spa facility.”
For more information, visit: cbsolarshading.co.uk/outdoor-living-pod
KITCHEN KIT:
10 ways to lift the heart of the home
After some inspiration for quick kitchen updates? Sam Wylie-Harris hits the shops.
Whether you’re a creative cook or have a soft spot for Uber Eats, no matter which way you look at it, your kitchen is probably the space serving the most purpose right now.
And with dining-in, or a quick kitchen disco, the only way to get the party started these days, you really don’t need an excuse to elevate the busiest room in the house with some lovely new kit.
Here’s 10 ways to give your kitchen a mini makeover and maximise mealtimes…
1. Russell Hobbs Structure White Kettle, £49.99; Structure White 2 Slice Toaster, £49.99 and Structure White 4 Slice Toaster, £59.99, Russell Hobbs
Chances are your kettle’s clocked more brews lately than the busiest teashop in the land. Your next mug of builder’s is going to taste that much nicer when you flick the switch of this glossy white model from Russell Hobbs. With ‘rapid boil’ zone markers and capacity to boil one cup in 45 seconds (saving energy), the matching toaster with ‘lift and look’ feature means faultless golden slices at a glance.
2. KitchenAid Steel Core Enamel Casserole, Red, from £130-£140, John Lewis Casseroles, chilli con carne, curry… this flame-red casserole dish offers as much feelgood factor as the comfort food you’ll be lovingly spooning out of it.
3. Italian Chef Set, £21.50, Brabantia Whether you’re serving pasta, slicing pizza or grating a chunk of Parmigiano Reggiano, this trio will put the buono! into your next bolognese or margherita.
4. Mayflower Ceramic NonStick Frying Pan, from £28 (was £35); Mayflower Ceramic Non-Stick Milkpan with 2 Spouts, £37, Greenpan
Suitable for all hob types, these lovely ceramic pans hint at ‘cottagecore’ and foraging for home-grown veggies.
8. Bo Touch Bin 36L – Pine Green, £179, Brabantia
The Bentley of waste bins, this space efficient, non-slip model, with silent opening and closing system, will handle all your rubbish – with the added bonus of PerfectFit Bo waste bags and Brabantia Perfume Your Bin Capsules to reduce nasty smells, so it’s ‘pine’ fresh too.
9. BAKTRADITION Baking Kit 1, £18.25, IKEA
If you’re a jenny-come-lately to the great British baking trend (or running short on a few implements), Ikea’s new baking kit will have you – and the kids – whipping up sweet treats and Victoria sponges in no time.
5. Bronx Kitchen Wall Unit, £75; Bronx Bread Bin, £26; Bronx 12 Piece Dinner Set, £48, and Set of 3 Bronx Storage Jars, £27 (other items from a selection), Next
A great way to gain more space, this industrialinspired wall unit can be stacked with dinnerware and those all-important indoor herbs. We love the co-ordinating bread bin and storage jars too.
6. George Foreman 28000 Smokeless Electric Grill, 1500 W, Stainless Steel, £96.21, Amazon
It’s the cooking conundrum anyone with a small kitchen, or limited ventilation, knows only too well – how to grill delicious kebabs or chicken thighs without having to live with the lingering smoke and smells. George Foreman’s electric grill now eliminates up to 87% of smoke, accommodates a wide variety of foods in record time, with dishwasher safe removeable grill plates too. Job done.
7. Kilner Universal Storage Jars, from £8, Amazon or Kilnerjar.co.uk
Kilner’s iconic storage jars are made from 100% recyclable glass that doesn’t absorb odours or flavours, so they can be used over and over again for a myriad of items, including dry and fresh food. Plus they’re neat and tidy and you can clearly see what’s inside.
10. Mary Berry Signature Collection 16 Piece Dinner Set, £125; Set of 16 Cutlery Set, £50, and Set of 4 Red Wine Glasses, £40 (other items from a selection), Next
With her fingers in many pies, Mary Berry’s Signature Collection dinner set retains her keen eye for detail with its beaded edge. And who wouldn’t want the queen of cooking’s tableware for entertaining, tablescaping and creating memorable moments at home?
Luxurious lounging
This past year we have seen a rise in home decorating and renovating for a hobby during lockdown. This will continue to grow throughout 2021, with sofas being a popular choice as we are lounging more than ever. Designer sofa specialists Darlings of Chelsea have a brand new range of sofas for you to tap into your interior style. Ranging from corner sofas to stunning modular sofas, Darlings of Chelsea have every sofa, colour and fabric you could possibly need to upgrade your home and create your dream space.
The Galloway Corner Sofa is the perfect sofa for lounging in, it provides comfort and class in one and offers plump deep seats and feather scatter cushions. This sofa comes in multiple sizes, materials and colours meaning that you can create a corner sofa that will compliment your interior space.
The Dulwich is a super comfortable, stylish contemporary chesterfield with a low buttoned back. This statement sofa is available in many colours and fabrics, so you are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing your favourite style.
You won’t find comfort like the Feather Extra Deep Fabric Modular Sofa. For ultimate relaxation, combine the Feather Extra Deep corner, armless and footstool units. This sofa is also perfect for smaller spaces or a more grand area, allowing you to choose from a small 3 seater sofa or an expansive U shaped configuration. Choose from a range of fabrics, including stain resistant fabric for a family friendly setting.
The Clapham sofa offers a classic take on a traditional square arm design. The angled arms provide more room. Ideal for cosy apartments and flats, this sofa adds a statement without taking up too much room. Available in a range of luxurious fabrics in both neutral and jewel tones as well as leather, this sofa offers endless possibilities for styling your dream living room.
darlingsofchelsea.co.uk
PLUMBING & HEATING GAS2O PLUMBING - LANDSCAPE - SEPT 20:Layout 1 11/09/2020 13:14 Page 1 PLUMBING & HEATIN GAS2O PLUMBING - LANDSCAPE - SEPT 20:Layout 1 11/09/2020 13:14 Page 1 G Chiltern Tree Care There is no job to big or small for Chiltern Tree Care, we have in excess of twenty-five years experience, working with trees and value the benefits trees bring to the environment. OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Pruning Tree Reduction Complete Tree Removal Stump Grinding Ivy removal Hedge Trimming Free Advice & Quotes on Request Fully Insured, Prompt & Professional Service Contact Nick: 01494 711480 nick@chilterntreecare.co.uk www.chilterntreecare.co.uk James Whitaker - 07861 725 838 Email: gas2o@live.co.uk 11 Laurel Road, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire. SL9 9SN • BOILERS • BATHROOMS • GAS • INSTALLATIONS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • BREAKDOWNS • POWER FLUSHING • UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS PLUMBING & HEATING 01494 923644 GAS2O PLUMBING - LANDSCAPE - SEPT 20:Layout 1 11/09/2020 13:14 Page 1 James Whitaker - 07861 725 838 Email: gas2o@live.co.uk 11 Laurel Road, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire. SL9 9SN • BOILERS • BATHROOMS • GAS • INSTALLATIONS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • BREAKDOWNS • POWER FLUSHING • UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS PLUMBING & HEATING 01494 923644 GAS2O PLUMBING - LANDSCAPE - SEPT 20:Layout 1 11/09/2020 13:14 Page 1 James Whitaker - 07861 725 838 Email: gas2o@live.co.uk 11 Laurel Road, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire. SL9 9SN • BOILERS • BATHROOMS • GAS • INSTALLATIONS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • BREAKDOWNS • POWER FLUSHING • UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS PLUMBING & HEATING 01494 923644 GAS2O PLUMBING - LANDSCAPE - SEPT 20:Layout 1 11/09/2020 13:14 Page 1 James Whitaker - 07861 725 838 Email: gas2o@live.co.uk 11 Laurel Road, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire. SL9 9SN • BOILERS • BATHROOMS • GAS • INSTALLATIONS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • BREAKDOWNS • POWER FLUSHING • UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS PLUMBING & HEATING 01494 923644 GAS2O PLUMBING - LANDSCAPE - SEPT 20:Layout 1 11/09/2020 13:14 Page 1 James Whitaker - 07861 725 838 Email: gas2o@live.co.uk 11 Laurel Road, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire. SL9 9SN • BOILERS • BATHROOMS • GAS • INSTALLATIONS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • BREAKDOWNS • POWER FLUSHING • UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS 01494 923644 James Whitaker - 07861 725 838 Email: gas2o@live.co.uk 11 Laurel Road, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire. SL9 9SN • BOILERS • BATHROOMS • GAS • INSTALLATIONS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • BREAKDOWNS • POWER FLUSHING • UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS 01494 923644 James Whitaker - 07861 725 838 Email: gas2o@live.co.uk 11 Laurel Road, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire. SL9 9SN • BOILERS • BATHROOMS • GAS • INSTALLATIONS • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • BREAKDOWNS • POWER FLUSHING • UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS PLUMBING & HEA 01494 9236 GAS2O PLUMBING - LANDSCAPE - SEPT 20:Layout 1 11/09/2020 13:14 Page 1 • BOILERS • • BATHROOMS • • GAS • • INSTALLATIONS • • SERVICE & MAINTENANCE • • BREAKDOWNS • • POWER FLUSHING • • UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS •
Desenio’s Executive Creative Director: Annica Wallin
What trends will we see in SS21?
There are several beautiful trends coming this spring and summer. We’re seeing an elegant take on the beige trend, influenced by the 60s and 70s. We’ll also be inspired by the rustic atmosphere of Provence, both in interior and colour palettes. I also believe we’ll be seeing a lot of playful, colourful trends in home decor and art.
How do you work with trends?
The trend work we build our collections on is fundamental in making Desenio what it is. Every art print is born out of extensive trend research. We scout out the latest colour palettes, art styles, and lifestyle and fashion trends to ensure our designs always reflect what’s new and the world around us in the right way.
Who are the photographers and artists behind the art at Desenio?
Most of our art is created by our very own Design Studio - we have a team of talented photographers, graphic designers and illustrators. We also scout out designs from other photographers and artists outside of Desenio.
What does the day-to-day work look like in your Design Studio?
With a new art drop always around the corner, our Design Studio is a constant hive of activity. When planning a new collection, there are a lot of considerations to take into account, from scouting the right colour palettes to interpreting the trends and where they are heading. Our illustrators and graphic artists then work conceptually with each collection, transforming thoughts and ideas into
art. When we’re in the midst of creating a new drop, the energy in our Design Studio is high! We’ll have artists painting in watercolour, illustrators creating new line art, and at the same time our graphic artists will be working on our digital artwork. It’s truly a fast-paced, fun and creative environment to be a part of.
Where are the prints produced?
A lot of our art prints are produced in our studio in Stockholm, and for bigger photo productions we’ve traveled to different places around the world. In the past we have travelled to Mexico, the deserts in the American Southwest and Iceland to produce some of our collections.
What does the conceptual work behind a Studio Collection look like?
Every Studio Collection we make at Desenio is inspired by a lifestyle trend. When working with a Studio Collection we have a conceptual vision - an idea reflecting society today. We want the story behind our collections to evoke memories and feelings. From start to finish, the team working on a Studio Collection are immersed in a creative flow. We’re a tight-knit team of art directors, photographers, stylists and production leaders, working together to create beautiful wall art.
What kind of art looks good against light vs dark walls?
There really aren’t any rules - building a gallery wall is a chance to experiment and find your own personal style. If I were to give any tips to make sure your art is centred to the wall, the centre shouldn’t be too low or too high. Personally I like when my art pieces hang closer together.
When creating new art prints, where do you draw inspiration?
We are constantly researching and scouting out the latest trends when it comes to lifestyle, interiors and design. Our inspiration comes from lots of different places, including art and design fairs, leading magazines and international trend agencies. Through our findings we create concepts and designs for our collections. We launch new designs every month so we are constantly working with our trend forecasts and we strive to launch a wide variety of art styles so that you can always find the right art for your home.
If one wants to place their art leaning against a wall or on a shelf, what’s your advice?
This is a trend we’re seeing a lot of at the moment! Creating a vignette - a way to arrange your favourite things such as vases and sculptures - is a perfect way to elevate your art picks. I suggest layering your art pieces in pairs, in different sizes, and grouping them with your favourite home accessories.
How do you choose the right frame for an art print?
A light frame will make the artwork pop, while a black frame creates contrast. Black frames often look nice paired with monochrome photo art.
Which measurements should you consider to create the perfect gallery wall?
We would recommend spacing the frames 5 to 10 centimetres (2 to 4 inches) apart. You could also try hanging them closer together to create the look of one solid art piece. It all comes down to your personal taste and style. Start with a 5 centimetre spacing between frames and go from there! A universal rule is to place the centre of your gallery wall approximately 145 centimetres (57 inches) above the floor. Do feel free to experiment with this rule - if you have a high ceiling it may have to be adjusted a little. You should also take the edge of the sofa into account - the lowest hanging frame should hang at least 15 centimetres (6 inches) above the sofa.
desenio.com
Design Storey
Kate Watson-Smyth shares styling tips
The interiors author and Mad About The House blogger has launched a new home edit-store. She tells Sam Wylie-Harris all about it.
After 20 years of writing about interiors and sharing her passion for styling homes through her award-winning blog, Mad About The House, Kate Watson-Smyth is taking her expertise to the next level – with a décor hub that does all the hard work for you.
“I had the idea for Design Storey (designstorey. shop) a year ago, and then the pandemic happened. And it feels even more right now, because we’ve all pivoted to online shopping, like it or not,” says Watson-Smyth.
“Yet there’s so much stuff out there – my job is to wander through the corridors of the internet looking for nice stuff to put on the blog.”
The result is an online interiors store with a really tight edit of 50 of the best of each product, to help narrow down your search.
“So it’s that idea of saying: ‘Do you know what, I will edit the internet for you. I will find you the best stuff, whether it’s filleting through a massive department store or sight like La Redoute, smaller brands, and hopefully bringing some new designers to your attention – and I will find you the best ones’,” Watson-Smyth explains.
Fun, creative and with a brilliant eye for detail, she’s realised with the ongoing restrictions and people desperately trying to create space for a home office (or homeschooling), they don’t want to spend all day looking for a desk lamp: “They just want a really nice one – so they can go back to work, or whatever they were doing.”
Each ’50 of the best’ collection on Design Storey is arranged over five pages, with no more than 10 on a page. “You can look through five pages at the bus stop – should you ever go to a bus stop again, or while waiting for the kettle to boil,” she says.
And if the specific thing you’re searching for isn’t in that desk lamp parameter? “You can go and look at table lamps, or floor lamps, which are great for working from home, because they give you more space on your desk.”
Making homewares more accessible than ever, with styling tips and advice to engage your interest, expect fun finds, new designs, as well as classics that hold their value – rather than ‘fast furniture’.
“We’ve had this moment in fashion where we’re understanding fast fashion is not a good thing, and that notion is coming to interiors,” she continues. “Where now you might have to spend a little bit more, but you’re going to buy it once, and buy it right.”
HERE, WATSON-SMYTH SHARES KEY PIECES TO STYLE UP YOUR SPACE…
Amara Bloomingville Face Glass Vase – Brown, £42 (other items from a selection or part of room set), Design Storey
“The Seventies called and they want their smoked glass back… This is a growing trend and whether you buy original vintage or modern pieces, it looks good in any style of interior,” says WatsonSmyth. “This will look as good filled with flowers or faux eucalyptus as it does empty, so it earns its place in your room and won’t take up precious cupboard space.”
Lights & Lamps Nola – 1 Light Matt Black and Brass Table Lamp, £52, Design Storey
“If your work-from-home space is lodging in a corner of the sitting room, kitchen or bedroom, you want a desk light that will work in all situations. This elegantly styled lamp can be angled to shine directly onto your desk, or turned to face the wall, where it will allow the light to glow gently back at you.” Style Tip: “Face your lamp forwards for work, and backwards to signify the end of the working day.”
• Electrical Testing – EICR (Electrical Installation
Condition Reporting) for house purchases &
Landlords • Electric Vehicle Chargers (including OLEV grant funded) • Replacement Consumer Units / Fuse Boards • Full or Part re-wiring of properties • Low energy Internal & External LED lighting
John Edwards: 07572 970 917
Address: 2 Colne Road, High Wycombe, Bucks. HP13 7XN johnedwards@kingswoodelectrical.co.uk www.kingswoodelectrical.co.uk
AFTER
BEFORE
Sun awnings and blinds Recovering existing outside awnings and blinds Roller shutter garage doors
Social distancing in operation
Tel: 01708 755667 • www.drathmore.co.uk
Style Tip: “I love a big statement vase on the shelf and the sculptured face on this makes it really fun.”
Love Your Home Ottilie Modern Sofa in Turmeric Mohair, from £1,748 (other items from a selection or part of room set)
“The key to making a small room look bigger is to keep the furniture simple in style,” suggests Watson-Smyth. “This sleek little number has legs tall enough for you to see the space underneath – and the more floor you see, the larger the area will feel. Its slim arms also mean more sitting space, and its modern styling and velvet upholstery means it will work well in both modern and classic interiors.”
Style Tip: “Why not consider a really bold colour for your sofa, rather than choosing a sensible plain colour and having patterned cushions? Mix it up – and have a really strong colour that makes your heart sing. After all, you’re going to be sitting on it for quite some time.”
Antipodream Bedding, items from a range of collections from various prices
“After years of crisp white bedding and hotel style bedrooms, the current mood is for something a little more rustic and relaxed – think #cottagecore. Layer up several of these patterns with their slightly vintage feel, and prepare to sleep out the rest of lockdown in style.”
Style Tip: “If the colours are from the same colour palette, you can mix as many patterns as you like.”
Nkuku Indigo Drop Ceramic Collection, from £11.95 each (main image)
“Stripes never go out of fashion and this collection of tableware from Nkuku – which works with independent businesses, social projects and co-operatives to source Fair Trade products – you can buy as you go along.
Style Tip: “With restaurants firmly off limits at the moment, it’s time to elevate your tablescaping and you can add some plain indigo pieces to mix it up a little.”
Soho Home Garret Swivel Chair, from £1,495 (other items from a selection or part of room set) (above)
“Boucle is everywhere at the moment, and its textured surface is perfect for curling up and getting cosy. The curved shape of this chair is part of a trend for so-called ‘fat furniture’, which is mostly about being comfortable,” says Watson-Smyth. Style Tip: “This chair will hug you in all the right places, and who doesn’t need that at the moment?”
Mad About The House Planner: Your
Home, Your Story by Kate Watson-Smyth is published by Pavilion.
Bisley Hideaway Wall Desk – Wooden Wall Mounted Desk, £349 (other items from a selection or part of room set) “Now that we all have multifunctional spaces, we need multifunctional furniture, and this wall-mounted desk is built to hide everything away at the end of the day. You can customise the colour of the steel back panel to go with the rest of the room, and the design includes a USB port and light too, so you’re good to go as soon as you open it up. Perfect for small spaces, as well as for teens and tweens.” Style Tip: “If you’re working from home in a small space, you can pack everything away at the end of the day – and flip your sitting room from office to cocktail lounge in a matter of seconds.”
The Top 10 Home Improvements to Invest in During 2021
Loft conversions, new kitchens or bathrooms, real wood flooring and smart home wiring have been revealed amongst the top 10 most value-adding property features to invest in right now, according to new research.
A recent study, conducted by Flooring Superstore, analysed live Rightmove listings and collaborated with top property experts to unveil which home improvements have the potential to add the most value to a property.
The Rightmove research suggested that real wood floors were most likely to have a positive impact on property prices in London, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol and Edinburgh. The investigation also highlighted that underfloor heating can increase the overall value of a home too, with this energy efficient form of heating most likely to boost property prices in London, Edinburgh, Sheffield, Glasgow, and Birmingham.
According to industry experts, homeowners should look to invest in improvements that add to the overall footprint of their property. Creating extensions or home improvements that modernise, improve the general condition of, or
The top 10 value-adding home improvements were revealed as:
• Loft conversions / extensions • New kitchen • Open plan living • Restoring original features • New bathroom • Designated space • New windows and doors • Approved planning permission • Smart home wiring • Real wood floors add interest to – such as creating a dedicated work from home space, installing underfloor heating, or restoring original features came out on top.
Creating a loft conversion or extension was the most likely improvement that significantly adds value. New kitchen, open plan living, restoring original features, new bathroom, designated working from home space, new windows and doors, approved planning permission, smart home wiring, real wood floors and underfloor heating were other aspects that were likely to add value.
While having a bath within the main bathroom – not just a shower – or having a working fireplace had minimal impact on the property’s value, these installations could sway a sale if in line with the personal preferences of the prospective buyers.
Installing solar panels are a potential risk due to the respective tariffs, the fact that some see them as an eye sore, and the repair/maintenance costs. If the solar panels are leased rather than owned outright, it can make a property unmortgage-able. Similarly, outstanding planning permission could potentially damage the value of a property, as it implies that there’s a problem with it.
The average potential percentage increase per home improvement revealed the following:
Rank Home improvement Potential impact on Estimated property value % increase 1 Loft conversions / extension Significantly adds value +19.38% 2 New kitchen Adds value +9.38% 3 Open plan living Adds value +8.33% 4 Restoring original features Adds value +7.38% 5 New bathroom Adds value +6.88% 6 Designated WFH space Adds value +6.33% 7 New windows and doors Adds value +4.83% 8 Approved planning permission Adds value +3.75% 9 Smart home wiring Adds value +3.67% 10 Real wood floors Adds value +3.33% 11 Underfloor heating Adds value +3.00% 12 Bath in bathroom (not just shower) Neither adds nor damages +0.67% 13 Solar panels Neither adds nor damages +0.50% 14 Working fireplace Neither adds nor damages +0.00% 15 Outstanding planning permission Potentially damage value -1.25%
As well as improvements within the property itself, expert advice suggests that landscaping outdoor space can also be a good investment to make. A well-maintained garden has the potential to add anywhere between five to 20 per cent to a property’s value – perhaps more as lockdown has created an increased demand for outdoor space. For those looking to revamp their external areas, artificial grass is easy to maintain, weather-proof, and pet-safe, so could be a good option.
Jessica Fox, Senior Marketing Executive, at Flooring Superstore commented:
“Our research suggests that there are plenty of opportunities for homeowners to add tangible value to their properties. Real wood flooring has the potential to add up to 5 per cent to a sale price in some areas. We recognise the value of real wood flooring, which is why we have the Direct Wood Flooring brand and team of experts to advise on grades, shades, grains, trends and much more. However, if real wood is out of your budget or not practical for your lifestyle, then you can still get the premium look for less with our vinyl or EvoCore alternatives. Waterproof and scratch resistant, EvoCore is an extremely versatile range; suitable for all areas of the home. Practical, hardwearing and easy to maintain it’s great for busy family homes too.
“For most of the top value-adding features in a home that our research revealed, flooring is an important consideration. For example, whether you’re getting an extension, new kitchen or bathroom, you need to consider functionality and style when it comes to the flooring type. On trend designs such as the popular parquet, is not only eye-catching and super stylish but instantly associated with luxury – for that all important first impression. Available in hardwood, laminate, EvoCore and vinyl designs, there’s a range suitable for every project too.
“Whichever home improvements you are looking to invest in, it’s likely that your current flooring will be disrupted, so try to take advantage of this by updating your flooring at the same time”.
flooringsuperstore.com
The right daffodil for the right spot
Whether planting in pots or in larger borders, there’s a daffodil for every situation. Hannah Stephenson leafs through some of the best
So, it’s almost spring, and with it comes the cheery sight of daffodils, from zingy canary yellow types to subtle creams and whites, as well as combinations incorporating deep orange and salmon pink.
Some have multiple flowers, others will pop back up after heavy rain, while many are scented and will provide a rich perfume on the patio.
There are thousands of types of daffodil (narcissi) and often the choice can seem a bit bewildering in the autumn when you are choosing which bulbs to plant.
So look out for some flowering beauties that’ll be coming into bloom in the coming weeks and, if you do plant in the autumn, will bring you endless joy in any situation, whether on a balcony or in a huge border.
Here are a few suggestions and where to put them… early-flowering and makes a good companion for blue crocus. If you plant them in clumps and don’t deadhead them, they should spread year on year.
FOR A PATIO POT
A lovely unusual-looking narcissus is ‘Bridal Crown’, a multi-headed with double ivory-white soft blooms with orange and gold centres. It is also highly fragrant and looks great on its own or paired with deep red wallflowers. Among the most popular is ‘Tête-à-tête’, which can be grown indoors and out, grows to no more than 20cm, and carries one, two or three small bright yellow flowers per stem in spring. It makes a good plant partner with Anemone blanda. Just remember, though, if you go for a type of daffodil with a heavy double bloom, they are more likely to flop and break in heavy rain or persistent bad weather.
FOR THE FLOWER BORDER
If you want a sturdy variety that’s going to make a statement, look no further than ‘King Midas’, a yellow stalwart that will withstand quite a lot of rainfall and perk up again, is pretty diseaseresistant and will do well in sun or shade. ‘Wisley’ is another reliable yellow performer, but for a more subtle hue, consider ‘Bravoure’ which has white petals and an eye-catching pale yellow trumpet. These paler types won’t make such an in-your-face display, but they do tend to merge into any garden scheme and won’t clash with other plants (although avoid placing them next to something bright pink).
FOR NATURALISING
If you want your narcissi to naturalise well, the native varieties such as N. obvallaris, the ‘Tenby daffodil’, is a reliable solid yellow variety, as is ‘Saint Keverne’. Alternatively you could try the deeper-hued dwarf variety ‘Jetfire’ with its deep orange trumpet and yellow outside petals, which is FOR SCENT
If you want scent on your balcony or patio, the smaller multi-headed narcissi are a good bet, including ‘Pipit’, which produces two to three acid yellow fragrant flowers per stem and many stems per bulb. It grows to between 20-30cm, with the flowers fading to a rich cream and it’s also one of the longest-flowering daffodils – it can bloom for up to five weeks from mid-spring onwards. Pair ‘Minnow’, another dwarf favourite with lemonyellow, fragrant flowers, with blue forget-me-nots for a pleasing combination. It may be a miniature, but the ‘Canaliculatus’ packs a punch flower-wise, bearing up to seven fragrant white flowers with yellow centres per stem in mid-spring and is ideal for pots and rockeries. It only reaches a height of around 15cm, so make sure it’s not swamped by much larger plants. A larger fragrant type which emits a sweet vanilla scent is ‘Carlton’, a pure yellow type with large flowers that measure around 12cm (5in) across, and is perfect if you are doing large scale planting for a showstopping effect.
FOR CUTTING
Many of us can’t bear to cut the blooms we have grown so lovingly, but if you have space in a corner or on an allotment, you could grow some for that specific reason. A designated bed also gives you some space to replant narcissi that have finished flowering to grow again in years to come. Reliable varieties for cutting include the whitepetalled ‘Sir Winston Churchill’, with its fragrant, semi-double flowers, and the exotic-looking ‘Orangery’, with its striking apricot trumpet.
Drawing inspiration from the traditional techniques of craftsmen in the Echizen region of Japan, the all-new ProCook Damascus 67 Knife range offers passionate home cooks a stylish kitchen must-have - delivering exceptional quality and precision performance.
Exquisitely designed, the stylish ProCook Damascus 67 Knife range draws upon the same great artisan skills traditionally used in the design of Samurai swords.
Using the most advanced materials, design and manufacturing techniques, each knife is crafted from world-renowned, authentic Japanese Damascus stainless steel. Featuring an inner core of high-carbon steel encased in 66 layers of anticorrosive steel, and stone-ground to a traditional 12-degree angle, ProCook Damascus 67 knives offer food-passionistas the ultimate in durability and unrivalled, superior sharpness.
The slimline elegant blade of each knife boasts the beautiful pattern characteristic of Damascus steel as a result of using 66 layers which creates a stunning pattern as unique as a fingerprint.
The strong, durable, perfectly fitting black handles are formed from G10, a material made by layering fiberglass cloth, soaked in epoxy resin, then compressed and baked, resulting in outstanding strength and beauty. Each one is finished with a red band and stamped rear bolster with decorative rivet featuring the Japanese symbol (pronounced: Tsuyo) which translates as ‘strength.’
ProCook Damascus 67 Knives also come with a choice of knife blocks to suit any kitchen style and offer a 25-year guarantee.
procook.co.uk
[ NEWS ]
OUTDOOR LIVING
SUMMER LIVING
Kick back in the sunshine with Celina Digby’s unique stylish designs and calm your mind whilst experiencing contemporary chic. Whether you’re throwing a garden party, having sunset drinks on the terrace or having a barbecue with your family, our water resistant garden products will quench your design thirst faster than a cold lemonade on a Summer’s day.
celinadigby.co.uk
HAPPY CAMPERS
Our Hartland 4 Man 2 Room Tent is great for a busy camping season (hopefully). These will be flying out of the door as soon as they are available. We all know camping is going to be a very hot trend this Summer.
trailoutdoorleisure.co.uk
LIGHT UP
Sparkle’s hand picked garden collection includes festoon lighting, garden fairy lights and solar powered lights to really bring some SPARKLE to the garden for this spring and summer.
sparkle.lighting
BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE
Bring the seaside to you and relax in Perkins & Morley’s Scraffito Shell Deckchair. Featuring bold line drawings, the colour palette of blues and stones would make a perfect counter-point to any garden. shop.perkinsandmorley.com
GOING WILD
Attract wildlife into your garden with this wonderful collection of wildflowers. The set of six boxes includes seeds for bees, birds, bats, butterflies, beetles and hedgehogs - perfect for anyone who loves their garden wildlife. The collection includes one box for each type wildlife plus an information card with details on each wildflower mix. annabeljames.co.uk
AFFORDABLE OPULENCE:
Bring the stunning look of luxury marble to your home New Deluxe Marble Tiles
The Deluxe range from Walls and Floors consists of unique marble effect tiles, that radiate individual personalities, to bring your home to life. They have a specialist granular glaze for an incredible sense of depth; the key to their stunning visual impact in any room. Essential to their unmistakeably authentic design is their large format porcelain body and rectified edge for a seamless flow of lifelike veining across interior spaces. They truly are grandiose design on an affordable scale. Each one is also in a large format 1200x600mm size for an opulent aesthetic.
Harmonising with their luxe feel are their names; Verdant, Lapis, Gold Leaf, Midnight and Obsidian.
Unique to the collection is Panda, a gorgeous gloss marble effect tile. Due to its dramatic high contrast veining, it’s a style statement that doesn’t disappoint. It takes it’s inspiration from natural Panda marble, a highly sought after rarity
Walls and Floors Deluxe Panda Gloss Black and White Marble Effect tiles manage to capture contrast between the crystalline white and the black bold veins, making them an affordable
replica of natural marble with a high impact finish.
Founded in 1987, Walls and Floors have over 2,000 stylish tile designs to choose from. Their latest campaign, ‘Unlock your dream home,’ is all about the idea that (with realistic wood effects, stone effects, trendy hexagons, splitface tiles and brick effect tiles) tiles are no longer limited to use in the kitchen or bathroom; they can be used throughout the home.
wallsandfloors.co.uk
