Innholdsfortegnelse for February 2017 i Ideal Home

The up-side to the weather being rubbish and having no money after Christmas is that it forces you to hunker down indoors, appreciate simple home comforts and consider your options for the year ahead. My grand masterplan involves a loft conversion and a bedroom redo, so it’s going to be a busy year! I’m determined to get more colour into my home this year. After years of passion for neutrals, I’ve been unfaithful and painted my north-facing living room in Farrow & Ball’s Dayroom Yellow. Best decorating decision I ever made! It’s gone from permanent gloom to golden glow and it gives me a lift every time I walk in. There are loads of ideas for easy decorating refreshes in this issue, and we’ve also focused on kitchens and bathrooms…

BESIDE THE SEA Nordic Houses in blue, £19 per roll, John Lewis RESTFUL FEEL Night Owl Midnight Blue, £18.98 per roll, Arthouse range, Brewers Home KALEIDOSCOPIC EFFECT Rio in Natural, £22 per roll, Arthouse range, JD Williams TOUCH OF THE EXOTIC Lagoon in grey, £15.99 per roll, Arthouse range, Argos ROMANTIC FLORALS Misty Moors, £12.99 per roll, Dunelm FOREST FRIENDS Folkloric, £15 per roll, Next SPARKLING GEOMETRIC Chevron Teal Geometric Glitter, £12.99 per roll, Inspired Wallpapers TROPICAL TASTE Copacabano black/white, £15 per roll, Wilko…

The basic design of our three-storey new build is sleek and minimal, with an open-plan ground floor, square rooms and large, steel-framed windows. Unfurnished, it was cold and echoey, but I’ve used worn, weathered and natural materials to soften its edges. Texture is so important. I love raw wood, leather and woven raffia mats and baskets. I put cushions, throws and rugs everywhere I can to create layers in a room. It’s the soft things that turns a house into the perfect home. I have developed a passion for sheepskins, which is why I have so many! I also love cushions, wooden stools and lamplight. They give a room warmth and a cosy feeling, so no matter how tough and industrial I make my scheme, the soft furnishings make it…

WHERE TO BUY 1. LIGHT Paloma pendant light in Teal, £59, Marks & Spencer 2. MIRROR Thea faux malachite mirror, £595, Graham and Green 3. LAMP Harmony table lamp, £19, Very 4. CUSHION La Perla cushion, £15, Marks & Spencer 5. CUSHION Lisa cushion in Bamboo, £30, Amara 6. SIDE TABLE Teddy side table in pink, £29, Very 7. VASE Metal and lilac glass vase, £25, Zara Home 8. RUG Aron printed tufted rug (120cm x 170cm), £109, La Redoute…

Ditch the ‘power glam’ accents The original hotel style meant bold black or immaculate white accents for a crisply defined look. Soften it right down by switching them for rich cream paintwork and blush pink accessories. WHERE TO BUY Iggy chaise in Squirrel pure cotton matt velvet, £2,440, Sofa.com Swap fussy for glossy Traditional wooden furniture was once a mainstay of hotel style, but this lighter twist works with ultra-simple contemporary pieces like this vanity. WHERE TO BUY White glass dressing table, £895; framed mirror, £395; both Carlton range, The White Company Layer up loosely Hotel style was all about several decks of cushions, all smooth, perfectly symmetrical and lined-up. Now, the fabrics are slubbier, the finish wrinklier and the arrangement more relaxed. WHERE TO BUY Plato lamp, £165; Hazel…

“Carefully plan your pillar taps’ height and projection. It’s vital the twin spouts don’t obstruct sink access ”DAVID COLE, SALES DIRECTOR, PERRIN & ROWE Reminiscent of those seen in a traditional butler’s pantry, pillar taps have a simplicity that’s easy to fall for. What’s more, because of their pared-back look, they suit a wide range of sink designs and shapes, too. Q What are pillar taps usually made from? While solid brass is the most commonly used material, they are available in a variety of other finishes. Chrome is a low-cost and durable option, while a brushed finish won’t show fingerprints. Golden metals, such as copper and brass, are great for adding some glitz, while burnished bronzes and antiqued finishes are also popular. Q Are they practical? The main appeal…

SIMPLE SETTINGS This hob is foolproof thanks to its pre-set functions – choose from simmering, keeping warm, melting and quick boiling CIF952BXLDB induction hob, £990, Hotpoint ALL-IN-ONE SOLUTION This clever deisgn has a built-in downdraft extractor and four induction zones that can be grouped in pairs to accommodate larger pans DD940BK 90cm induction hob with downdraft extractor, from £3,414, Caple INSTANT CUT-OFF The powerful wok burner can also handle delicate jobs, such as melting chocolate. If you need to dash away, press the Quick Stop button to shut down all the burners PPS816M91E Series 6 80cm gas hob, £430, Bosch ENERGY SAVER As this hob heats up, it triggers the matching hood to extract at the appropriate rate. Because it never works harder than needed and shuts off automatically, it…

1 THEY’RE QUIETER THAN THEY WERE Many extractors now run well below the volume of normal conversation. 2 YOU CAN HIDE THEM AWAY Downdraft hoods rise up from your worktop when they’re needed, while Miele’s flush-fit hood can be neatly concealed at the base of a wall cabinet. 3 PLASMA IS THE NEXT BIG THING It’s said to be better at removing odours and bacteria than the usual combo of grease and charcoal filters. 4 THEY’LL LIGHT UP THE ROOM New multitasking hoods have lighting so powerful that they can illuminate your whole kitchen. 5 CONDENSATION ISN’T AN ISSUE Whirlpool’s condenser hoods, from £649, have a useful heating element that stops steam from condensing and dripping back into your food.…

MARKET FRESH So long, soggy spinach! This model has specific zones to keep vegetables at their best and to chill drinks quickly. One can even switch between use as a fridge or a freezer 3DS60 freestanding fridge-freezer, from £607, Haier TRIPLE UP A side-by-side cooling centre like this will impress your guests and provide all the storage you’ll ever need EUX2245AOX freezer, £949; ERW3313AOX wine cabinet, £1,200; ERX3214AOX fridge, £899; all Electrolux SILVER SCREEN You can watch TV, stream music and access recipes on the door’s screen, plus cameras let you look inside the fridge via an app while you’re out shopping RB38K7998S4 fridge-freezer, £2,999, Samsung COOL COLOUR Available in nine shades, this retro design has a large freezer box and a huge humidity-controlled basket to preserve fruit and veg…

1 IT’S NOW EASIER TO LOAD THEM With separate cutlery trays, foldable tines and upper baskets that can be raised or taken out, they’re a doddle to load. 2 THEY’RE FAST Expect them to wash a lightly soiled load in just 30 minutes, and a full haul of filthy plates in less than an hour. 3 DRYING HAS BEEN IMPROVED This is thanks to special features that kick in at the end of a programme, such as an extra-hot drying cycle, a fan or an automatic door that opens to let out damp air. 4 YOU CAN WASH HALF LOADS Half-load cycles use less energy, so you don’t have to fill the dishwasher to run a guilt-free wash. 5 THEY’LL PICK THE RIGHT CYCLE Intelligent dishwashers detect the load size…

1 AIM FOR A FLEXIBLE DESIGN Pocket sliding doors that disappear into the wall not only save on space, but are a much more practical option for wheelchair users. 2 KEEP SURFACES FLUSH Having the same floor surface throughout a property is easier for a wheelchair user to negotiate and will help a small space appear bigger. 3 CHOOSE DURABLE MATERIALS Go for durable and easy-to-clean surfaces. Wood-effect floor tiles are elegant and hard wearing. 4 TECHNOLOGY CAN HELP Movement and infrared sensors on light switches keep walls clutter free, detect body heat and can save on electricity. Remotely operated blinds and roof lights are easier for everyone to use. 5 GO FOR THE BEST QUALITY If you are installing mobility aids, like grab rails or taps with long lever…

WHERE TO BUY 1. PENDANT SHADE Sphery30 wooden shade, £105, ByKirsty 2. SHELVING Darcey shelves, £299, Made.com 3. CALENDAR Wall calendar, £25, Bold & Noble 4. BLANKET Striped throw, £12.99, HomeSense 5. WALL HOOKS Hooks, £55 for three, Chocolate Creative 6. ROCKING CHAIR Rocking chair, £55, Eames range, Danetti 7. LETTER RACK Mail holder, £44.95, Goodwin & Goodwin 8. CIRCULAR MAT Badaren yellow mat, £3.50, Ikea…

THE STORAGE BED The six handy baskets that come with the new Mazeballs bed are ideal for keeping favourite books (and bears) close to hand at bedtimes – and tucked out of sight in-between £625, Loaf THE LEGO SORTER From budding builders to kids who love crafting, store their fiddly bits and pieces in this value Blox box £4, Wilko THE WHEELY BOX This duo of Bloomingville boxes on castors are a must-have for quick clear-ups – for tidy bedrooms in a flash £160 for two, Berry Red THE TIDY-ALL PLAY MAT Pull the ropes on either side of this cotton Play & Go mat, and it all ties up to create a portable storage bag. Genius! £26, Amara THE HANDY TWO-IN-ONE The stylish Berlingot doll’s house doubles up as…

Basic pancake batter Makes 10 to 12 pancakes Takes 30min plus resting time INGREDIENTS • 2 large eggs • 250ml milk • 100g plain flour • 50g butter, melted 1 Whisk the eggs and milk in a jug. Sift the flour and a pinch of salt into a bowl, then make a well in it. Pour the egg and milk into the well and, using an electric whisk, mix to a smooth batter, drawing the flour in from the edges. Stand for 20min. 2 Heat a flat frying pan to hot, then reduce to medium and brush with the butter. Pour 2tbsp of batter into the pan and cook the pancake until golden underneath. Flip it, then cook the other side. Repeat with the remaining batter, keeping the other pancakes warm until ready…

WHERE TO BUY 1. WOODEN SPOONS Wooden spoons, £1 for three, Poundland 2. LEMON JUICER Lemon squeezer and jug, £8, Next 3. ICING SHAKER Mid-century Poppy icing shaker, £5.95, Dotcomgiftshop 4. UTENSILS Stainless-steel spatula with beech handle; whisk; both £5 each, By Sainsbury’s 5. GRIDDLE PAN Swift flat griddle pan, £55.99, Lakeland 6. OVEN GLOVES Oven gloves, £14.99, Great British Bake Off range, Littlewoods 7. MIXING BOWL Grey ‘Mix It Up’ mixing bowl, £6, TkMaxx 8. TEA TOWELS Lemons tea towels, £12 for three, John Lewis…

During winter, it’s more important than ever that our homes are keeping us warm and working efficiently. It’s typically a time when wholesale energy costs soar and suppliers remove their cheapest deals, potentially leaving customers facing price rises. What’s more, many homes in the UK are on expensive standard tariffs, which offer no protection against price increases. With more than 40 energy suppliers now on the market, there’s never been a better time to check your energy bills. This month, energy-comparison site energyhelpline has teamed up with Ideal Home to compare the prices of all UK suppliers, so you can be sure to find the best deal to suit you. Running a comparison through the easy-to-use website (below) is free, takes just a few minutes and could potentially save you…

Smart system We used Ikea’s Fintorp rails and added storage to build a nerve centre for life’s little necessities – perfect for a hectic hallway. Tailor it to you by adding bonus baskets for hats and gloves, creating a mini message board or attaching a holding place for post. BUY THE KEY PIECES Wall painted in Portland Stone Intelligent matt emulsion, £45 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Hooks, £3 for five; Nornas bench, £70; all Ikea. ON RAILS (from top left): Fintorp cutlery stand, £5; chopping board, £3 for two; both Ikea. Board painted in black chalkboard paint, £11 for 750ml, Rust-Oleum range, B&Q. Zinc basket, £16.50, Dee Puddy. Large black clip, £5.95, Rose & Grey. Fintorp wire basket, £6, Ikea. Helene hanging basket, £18 for two, Rose & Grey…

“A large chrome fountainhead shower is the perfect way to add a period focal point to your bathroom – plus, it’ll add a welcome hint of sparkle ”CHRIS TAYLOR , DESIGN EXPERT, BRISTAN “Traditional-style bathroom products create a timeless, classic look that will never go out of fashion, making them not just a stylish choice, but a safe investment, too ” HELEN SHAW, MARKETING MANAGER, LAURA ASHLEY BATHROOM COLLECTION Delicate pastels Teaming pale-blue, Shaker-style furniture with traditional brassware creates a period-style bathroom that’s both relaxed and welcoming. BUY THE KEY PIECES Roseberry washbasin unit in Blue Lagoon with Monet round semi-recessed basin, £785; Monet Classical back-to-wall loo, £545; Regent basin mixer, £395; 1,800mm Roundelle double-ended shower bath, £495; all Utopia Bathrooms Enjoying a big…

Live in a hard-water area? Then go for a glass shower enclosure with an invisible, easy-clean coating. Try to avoid using reflective materials on opposite walls. They will reflect into each other, which can become quite disorientating. If children are going to use the bathroom, choose toughened glass or glass with a vinyl-backed sheet fitted to it to make it safe. Glossy floors can become slippery when wet. To avoid accidents, pick tiles with a nonslip surface – your flooring supplier will be able to give advice on the best options. Use a silicone-based sealant to ensure moisture doesn’t make its way behind wall panels and tiles in showers and cause damp patches to appear. Add subtle detail by using glass panelling with bevelled edges. IDEAL HOME expert tip Use…

“The trend for statement wallpaper will always be timeless, as it’s a great way of adding drama to a space ” TINA ROBINSON , PRODUCT MANAGER, HERITAGE BATHROOMS “When it comes to decorating, walls really are your blank canvas. Be bold and consider making a dramatic statement with a striking geometric pattern ” TINA ROBINSON, PRODUCT MANAGER, HERITAGE BATHROOMS Paper the walls Feature wallpaper isn’t just for living and dining rooms – this bold floral pattern creates the perfect country mansion feel when paired with period furniture and an opulent freestanding bath. BUY THE KEY PIECES Hylton metallic-effect bath, £2,550; Hartlebury bath-shower mixer, £385; Victoria double console basin, £1,095; Hartlebury swivel-spout basin mixers, £385 each; all Heritage Bathrooms Jazzing up plain white ceramics has never been…

“There is a strong interior design trend for wood grains at the moment, particularly weathered and salvaged timbers ”STUART WHITE , MANAGING DIRECTOR, BUSHBOARD “Look out for digital products with modules controlled by Bluetooth that allow you to control lighting, sound and steam settings for the ultimate luxury shower experience ”KELLY EVEREST, MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, GROHE UK Set the tone Go for a co-ordinated look by matching floor and wall tiles, and choosing furniture that’s framed in a similar shade. BUY THE KEY PIECES Vogue Vintage basin unit, £686; Marin back-to-wall loo with cistern and soft-close seat, £860; handleless mirror wall units, £200 each; all Mereway range, The Bathroom Shop Are you after a bathroom or en suite that looks grown-up and feels wonderfully indulgent? Then a luxurious…

Covered terrace The patio is only open on one side, so Alexandra has reused old indoor furniture and rugs. ‘It can get cold here in the winter months,’ she says, ‘so we’re planning to add a fireplace so we can use it all year round.’ BUY THE KEY PIECES For a similar rug, try the diamond kelim, from £215, Debenhams. For a similar sofa, try the Chatnap in Grape velvet, £2,835, Loaf. For a similar pouffe, try the knitted, £60, BHS Living room Alexandra resisted the urge to put colour on the walls and kept them white, letting natural wood, sheepskin and leather create a warm, neutral scheme. The star light and photographic print keep it modern, not rustic. BUY THE KEY PIECES For a similar leather chair, try the…

Good foundation Traditional wall panelling (or a great lookalike, such as the one pictured), plank flooring and simple wooden tables you can move from room to room as your needs change are all elements of an enduringly beautiful home Versatile neutral A pale, warm grey is ideal on kitchen cabinetry – it works with anything if you choose to change the wall colour or splashback NATURAL TEXTILES Invest in good-quality wool, linen and cotton basics then add cheaper prints as trends come and go ARTISAN DESIGNS Good craftsmanship never dates, so choose pieces with an unfussy, hand-made look Stylist’s note “Pattern dates quickly, so stick to simple, classic designs for upholstery and made-to-measure window treatments ”NICKY PHILLIPS, DECORATING EDITOR Easy style mix Soft colours and simple shapes let…

“My home is a sanctuary, but also a testing ground for my ideas, too ” THE PROPERTY A five-bedroom, semidetached Victorian house in north London. VALUE Bought in 2011 for £670,000; now worth more than £1 million. When it came to finding a house in north London with her husband Rob, Emma Gurner took a single-minded approach. ‘I love period properties – the high ceilings and gorgeous windows create great spaces to decorate, as well as live in,’ she says. ‘When we were looking for our family home, I narrowed it down to one area, then one street, and then literally knocked on doors to ask who was selling.’ Eventually, Emma struck lucky. ‘This house was owned by a builder who was mid-renovation,’ she says. ‘We negotiated a…

WHERE TO BUY 1. PENDANT LIGHT Stourton enamel pendant, £74.99, Dowsing & Reynolds 2. TAP Chambley chrome-effect tap, £66, Cooke & Lewis range, B&Q 3. CONSOLE Grey console unit with storage, £400, Melody Maison 4. KETTLE Kone kettle in Marseille Blue, £52.50, Le Creuset range, John Lewis 5. HOOK RAIL Copper-effect gadget rack, £5.99, Dunelm 6. RANGE COOKER CK305G gas range cooker, £580, Kenwood range, Currys 7. PAINT Pebble Shore matt emulsion, £19.84 for 2.5ltr, Colours Premium range, B&Q…

“ It feels so much bigger. We love everything about it, especially as we did all the work ourselves! ” Welcome to my home THE PROPERTY A two-bedroom Victorian terraced house in Belvedere in Kent. WHAT IT COST Units ....................... £491 Worktop s................ £150 Appliances ............. £373 Sink and tap .......... £285 Tiles ........................... £33 Flooring ................... £152 TOTAL.............£1,484 HOW HAYLEY AND LEWIE DID IT ‘When we bought this house in 2014, the kitchen hadn’t been updated for years, which suited us perfectly as we wanted to start from scratch. We needed to keep costs down, so we decided to do as much work as we could ourselves. Lewie designed the layout and we spent a week stripping the room, moving pipes and replastering. Lewie wanted to…

1 SMART HOBS HELP YOU COOK Look for pre-sets that keep induction zones at the precise temperature to complete tasks, such as simmering a sauce. 2 IT’S POSSIBLE TO CUSTOMISE IT Can’t decide between gas and induction? An all-in-one hob combining both means you don’t have to. 3 GAS HAS GOT MUCH QUICKER New flame technology is reducing heat loss around the sides of the pan, so water boils faster and you can fry and sauté like a pro. 4 EXTRACTORS CAN BE BUILT IN Now you don’t need two separate appliances. 5 HOBS AND HOODS TALK Miele, Siemens and AEG have induction hobs that connect wirelessly to their extractors. When you turn on the hob, the hood kicks in automatically and its extraction increases as you turn up the…

GREAT VALUE This 74ltr-capacity oven has a pizza programme, with space inside for a 34in margherita, plus a pyrolytic-cleaning function ZOP38903XD pyrolytic oven, £450, Zanussi HI-TECH FAST FOOD Select varioSpeed to cook dishes up to 50% faster by using microwaves alongside conventional heat. It’s also controllable with an app HM678G4S6B iQ700 Wi-Fi oven with Home Connect, £1,205, Siemens SPLIT INTO SECTIONS Use the cavity divider panel (included), and cook fish pie at one temperature and pastries at another, with zero chance that your croissants will come out tasting of salmon BVM34500BM multifunction oven, £439, Beko MASTER ROASTER There’s a rotisserie for roasting a juicy Sunday joint, and you can cook completely different dishes on three shelves without the flavours and aromas mixing AKPM 6692 IXL pyrolytic oven with rotisserie, £690,…

1 YOU CAN SPY ON YOUR FOOD With a Wi-Fi fridge, you can turn on settings like holiday mode from your phone, or maybe even see what’s inside when you’re at the shops. 2 BIG IS BETTER The dream is a full ‘cool wall’ with a fridge, freezer and wine cooler. 3 YOUR FOOD WILL LAST LONGER Pick a model that has a humidity-controlled drawer to stop vegetables from going soggy, a 0°C box for meat and dairy, and odour-busting filters. 4 NEW MODELS ARE FLEXIBLE Go from batch freezing to chilling party drinks with a zone that converts from freezer to fridge. 5 RETRO IS STILL A THING We love Smeg’s iconic Fab models, and the adventurous shades of Gorenje’s retro line.…

SAVES MONEY Fill this machine with a bottle of liquid detergent and it will work out how much to use each time. It can clean a full load at 40°C in 40 minutes GWN59650CW ProDose 9kg washing machine, £700, Grundig DOUBLE BUBBLE Above the main 8kg, 18-programme washing machine, you’ll find a second drum that can wash a smaller 4kg load on one of 12 cycles HW120-B1558 washing machine, £1,300, Haier STEAM AND SENSORS Your clothes couldn’t be better looked after. Steam cycles refresh delicate outfits and sensors make sure garments come out as clean as possible NA148XS1WGB 8kg washing machine, £599, Panasonic CLEVER CONDENSER Dryers usually have stingy capacities, but this rainy-day friend bucks the trend. Choose how dry you want the load to come out and the cycle…

“Let a show-stopping chandelier be the star of your scheme by keeping everything else simple – choose a restful palette and a traditional suite ”MICHELA COLLING , STYLE EDITOR RECLAIMED PIECE Painted pine wardrobe, from a selection, The Old Cinema HERITAGE STYLE Holborn basin, from £75; upstand, from £45; both Frontline Bathrooms ORNATE DETAIL Compton mirror, £230, The Chandelier & Mirror Company GLAMOROUS LIGHTING Antiqued silver and glass chandelier, £515, Out There Interiors PRACTICAL CHOICE White metro wall tiles, £32.95 per sq m, Walls and Floors CLAW-FOOT CLASSIC Dove grey bath, £1,200, The Bath Co range, Victoriaplum.com TRADITIONAL VALVES An authentic look is all about the details – these of-the-era valves will round off a period scheme MODERN TECHNOLOGY Original triple-control shower valve, £888, CP Hart BEVELLED EDGING…

With spring around the corner, now is the perfect time to refresh your home. Online store Cox & Cox has four key looks for the new season: Faded Elegance, Industrial Elements, Contemporary Rustic and New Scandi. Each collection includes a wide range of interior must-haves, from rattan dining chairs to zinc tables. The Faded Elegance range is inspired by timeworn vintage pieces. This look is characterised by opulent textures, intricate carved details and weathered finishes. The Industrial Elements collection gives industrial style a softer edge, with distressed wood, concrete and metal surfaces paired with natural linens and leather. Contemporary Rustic draws inspiration from a typical English country farmhouse and includes a muted colour palette and wood grains, while the New Scandi trend introduces black and brass accents into the familiar…

How was the Christmas dinner cleanup for you? If you found yourself slaving over the sink, consider making your New Year’s resolution to never wash a plate again, thanks to a dishwasher from Beko. These cleaning machines deliver sparkling glasses and spotless pans, plus they use less water and are more hygienic than washing up by hand, saving you time and money, too. The latest dishwashers are also super quiet, making them ideal for an open-plan kitchen, and they come in slimline options – perfect for a compact kitchen. AMAZING CLEANING POWER Baked-on food can’t compete with Beko’s powerful AquaIntense function: a second spray arm and higher water pressure create an intensive wash zone in the lower basket of the machine for cleaning results that are up to five times…

OLYMPIA RIVER CRUISES FOUR TO 10-DAY CRUISE FROM £349PP* THE PRICE INCLUDES • Departures by coach, air and Eurostar • Full board arrangements, including afternoon tea and snacks • Selection of itineraries available • The services of a cruise manager Departures April to October 2017 ELVIS PRESLEY’S MEMPHIS, NEW ORLEANS & NASHVILLE NINE DAYS FROM ONLY £1,249PP THE PRICE INCLUDES • Seven nights’ stay across Montgomery, New Orleans , Memphis and Nashville • Return flights to Atlanta and transfers • Includes key visits and a journey through the Alabama countryside • Fully escorted by a tour manager Departures from March 2017 to December 2018 DUBROVNIK, MONTENEGRO & THE DALMATIAN COAST EIGHT DAYS FROM £799PP THE PRICE INCLUDES • Return flights and transfers • Seven nights’ half board at three- and four-star hotels in Brela and Dubrovnik • Visits to Split,…

8 DAYS FROM £1,199PP; 15 DAYS FROM £1,899PP There are lots of ships cruising Europe’s rivers, but few can match the luxury and elegance of Riviera’s five-star vessels that travel on the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Main, Rhône or Seine. THE PRICE INCLUDES • Either return rail* and Eurostar, or flights, taxes and transfers • Five-star cabins with hotel-standard beds, private bathrooms and river views • Exceptional cuisine with full board throughout • Extensive and fully inclusive touring programmes Selected departures from April to November 2017 TO BOOK OR ORDER A FREE BROCHURE, CALL 01283 744319 OR VISIT IDERIVIERA.CO.UK *Supplements applicable for certain regional stations. Cruise durations may vary. Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing, and are subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with…

Having evolved in recent years from a space that was purely functional to one that’s a relaxing hideaway from the rigours of our busy lives, the bathrooms of today can make or break a home. If you’re planning to refresh or redesign yours – whether you want a hit of hotel chic for a glamorous space or a whole new look featuring heaps of hard-working storage for family life – we’ve got it covered. From elegant period designs with roll-top baths to trendy wetrooms, we’ve discovered the top trends in 2017 bathroom design. So read on and be inspired!…

Combine styles to create a scheme that’s full of character, for instance by teaming a traditional roll-top bath with modern chrome taps, or period-style brassware with contemporary wall lighting. Include pattern and colour using traditional Victorian encaustic tiles for the floor and walls. Find them at reclamation yards, or source reproductions from companies such as Fired Earth and Topps Tiles. Keep it toasty by installing underfloor heating – it’s a great addition, particularly to take the chill off ceramic tiles on cold winter mornings. Just remember to check beforehand that your chosen flooring is suitable for use with the system you’re planning to use. Make the most of original flooring, either by sanding and varnishing or painting your existing floorboards, for a classic look that will really show off white…

“Incorporate stone tiles, wooden accessories and minimal styling to give your bathroom unfussy, earthy appeal ”CHRIS TAYLOR , DESIGN EXPERT, BRISTAN “Wall and ceiling panels in shades that mimic the natural world are a stunning alternative to simple gloss white finishes ” MICHAEL SAMMON, SALES AND MARKETINGDIRECTOR, FRONTLINE BATHROOMS Traditional country style Give your space a farmhouse feel with classic Shaker-style cabinets and matching bath panels in a light-oak finish. BUY THE KEY PIECES Loo base with Bordo pan, £1,141; Mirror dresser with shelf, £560; single framed mirror wall unit, £379; bath front panel, £465; all Sargasso in light oak, Mereway Bathrooms range, The Bathroom Shop Natural materials will not only add character and warmth to your room, but they’ll also help to soften the sleek lines of…

Brilliant or bonkers? CAR PERFUME Would you spend £15 on an air freshener for your car? This fancy fragrance is a lot lovelier than those tree-shaped thingies people hang from their mirrors (and a godsend for those with smelly dogs). Choose from ‘Rich’ or ‘Revitalising’, and clip to the fan to release the scent. It’s Loaf, but littler! There’s a growing focus on cool interiors style for kids’ rooms, and Loaf is joining the march with its huge 100-piece range for children from teen to tween. Expect to find unique furniture and accessories, all stamped with Loaf’s signature friendliness and sense of humour. Oh, and be warned: the cushions are seriously cute. Yet another reason to visit Made.com … If you…

“ Right now, I feel really at ease in this house, and I want it to reflect that feeling ” Alexandra van Rennes lives here with her husband Dennis and their children Matthijs, 19, Lotte, 17, and Mees, eight. The couple own a specialist travel company. THE PROPERTY A four-bedroom new build in Heemskerk, the Netherlands. Take a quick tour... HOW TO DO Industrial chic 1 DISPLAY RATHER THAN CONCEAL It’s all about revealing, or adding, a raw, unfinished look. Think utilitarian objects, and wood, concrete and metal surfaces. 2 MAKE FRIENDS WITH THE LOCAL RESTORATION DEALER For the heads up on vintage furniture and industrial-style lighting that’s just in. 3 GO FOR POPS OF BLACK Paint floors, window frames and woodwork black to add modern industrial…

You might not know her name, but you’ve probably seen Genevieve Bennett’s work. Most recently, she’s designed a range of wallpaper, fabric and rugs for John Lewis, but she’s also created leather goods for Mulberry, textiles for Wedgwood and accessories for Habitat. Genevieve lives in Bethnal Green, East London, with her six-year-old son, Torben. My John Lewis wallpaper has a boldness that’s very much my signature. I loved seeing the designs move from the drawing board through to production. Creating wallpaper is similar to block printing – it allows for beautiful depth and contrast between matt and shine. This season, I’ve added bed linen and bathroom textiles to the range. I have always loved colour and materials. I studied embroidered and woven textiles at the Glasgow School of Art, and…

Colour lift A single, surprising bubblegum-pink chair is all it takes to shake up a classic look, taking a workspace from ‘serious’ to creative, uplifting and contemporary Easy glamour Turquoise and deep pink play off each other perfectly. A hint of pattern adds to the energy, but blocks of black keep the scheme grounded How to fill your home with jewels… Clockwise from top left: Cluster jewel-toned glassware for a bright display; use a mix of matt and shiny fabrics – velvet, gloss velvet, silk and felt; a jade, gold and black feature wallpaper gives you a base of three colours – just add brights; go for a black accent piece to anchor your colourful scheme. Stylist’s note “A colour palette as fearless as this needs furniture to match,…

“If you’d told me 10 years ago that I would be living in a house this old, I’d never have believed you! ” THE PROPERTY A five-bedroom coach house built in the 1890s in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, bought in 2009. VALUE Similar houses in Sheffield are worth £900,000. Moving to a Georgian house in Sheffield sparked a total style change for Anna-Louise Coupland and her husband Steve. ‘We’ve always lived in modern houses with contemporary furniture,’ says Anna-Louise. ‘Coming here has had a huge impact on my decorating style, from the colours for the walls to the furniture I have picked.’ The house had been neglected and needed complete renovation, including new ceilings, central heating, electrics and plumbing, plus a kitchen and bathrooms. ‘We wanted every bit of…

1 Turn the floor into a feature Patterned floor tiles will break up a neutral room. If your kitchen is modest in size, choose a subtle, small-scale design that complements your wall tiles, so the floor becomes the focal point without overpowering the space. Wicker Charcoal floor tiles, £38 per sq m, Laura Ashley Heritage range, British Designer Tiles 2 Take shelving up a level Give your kitchen an urban edge with ‘open-plan’ shelves. Turn a metal-framed side table upside down, then attach it to the wall so that the underside of the tabletop becomes a shelf. Fix two or three in a row to create a run of statement shelving. 3 SORT YOUR SUPPLIES Decant dry ingredients into airtight jars that will look neat lined up on a worktop…

“Concrete worktops combine the organic feel of stone with the flexibility of being tailor-made to precise requirements ”TIM BAYES, FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR, LOWINFO Concrete is a rugged and versatile material that is ideal for bringing a raw, industrial edge to your kitchen. It comes in both matt and silk-finish options, and can be cast into chunky slabs or poured and smoothed for a seamless look. Q How much does it cost? Expect to pay from £300 per sq m for an unpigmented concrete worktop. Special features, such as hob and sink cutouts, drainer grooves and tap holes, will cost extra, as will the inclusion of coloured pigments. Check whether the price includes templating, delivery and installation costs, too. QIsn’t concrete really heavy? Like any solid worktop, depth is the…

ODOUR EATER The plasma filter inside this recirculating hood is excellent at clearing bad smells. Plus, the handy 15-minute timer option means you don’t have to remember to turn it off Steel Genesi Wall 90cm cooker hood, from £2,125, Bradshaw Luxury BUDGET BEAUTY A great statement piece if you’re updating your kitchen on a budget – you could combine two over a wider hob for an even more industrial vibe. Alternatively, add a 60cm or 90cm glass canopy PV372SS 35cm island hood, from £319, Baumatic SUBTLE AND SILENT Tuck this sculptural pop-up hood in a cavity under your worktop – with a maximum extraction rate of 900m3/hr, it can clear a large room of steam and odours, and runs at a quiet 58dB 3D9 90cm downdraft extractor, £1,729, CDA OUT…

1 THE LATEST ARE BIGGER INSIDE... ...due to better insulation and clever shelf designs. 2 COOKING IS NOW SIMPLER Specialist programmes can take the guesswork out of cooking. For example, a pizza function might use bottom heat to cook the base, and the grill to brown the top. 3 YOU DON’T HAVE TO CLEAN THEM Catalytic liners or, better yet, a pyrolytic mode, will break down dirt for you. 4 TAKE CONTROL WHILE SITTING ON THE SOFA Wi-Fi ovens let you turn the heat up, down, on or off from your phone. 5 YOU’LL RULE AT ROASTS WITH A ROTISSERIE This slowly rotates meat or poultry in the oven, the juices rolling across as it turns, so no basting is required. The results are even and succulent.…

BACK SAVIOUR Available from May, this dishwasher has a bottom basket that pulls out and up so you don’t have to stoop, and a quiet 37 dB cycle ComfortLift fully integrated dishwasher, from £999, AEG CLEVER TECH Use an app to control it remotely, help you pick the best cycle and see if you’re low on tablets or rinse aid. Plus, it’s ace at drying and has a 29-minute fast wash SMS88TI26E Wi-Fi freestanding dishwasher, £849, Bosch TOUGH BUT GENTLE This machine uses steam to lift off baked-on food and tough marks, such as lipstick. It’s also one of the quietest out there, and its two removable cutlery trays make loading and emptying a breeze D1484 TrueSteam freestanding dishwasher, £559, LG AWESOME VALUE Short on space? This low-cost, slender model…

1 SOME REFRESH YOUR DELICATES Refresh cycles lift odours and dirt from wool suits or silk tops gently and without detergent, saving trips to the dry cleaners. 2 OTHERS ARE SELF DOSING Adding too much detergent harms fabrics, but some models have sensors that work out how much to use. 3 TWO LOADS CAN BECOME ONE Clean your whites and colours in the same hour with a time-saving double-drum machine. 4 THEY’RE FAST Look out for quick-wash programmes as fast as 12 minutes, and settings that speed up any cycle by up to 50%. 5 DRYERS DON’T GUZZLE ENERGY Heat-pump models cost pennies to run, while sensor dryers stop as soon as clothes reach the chosen dryness level.…

1 A FASCIA GIVES A BUILDING DEFINITION The deep horizontal band on fascias can define the form of an extension, as well as help to conceal unsightly guttering. Zinc can be coloured or coated, or left as it is for a more natural effect. Architects like using zinc as it looks elegant alongside many materials, including wood, glass, brick and stone. 2 ZINC IS DURABLE… Not only is zinc a naturally hard-wearing material, it’s also maintenance-free, so it’s ideal if you’re looking to future-proof your build. Its durability and frost-resistance means it’s suitable to use in all climates. 3 …BUT ALSO FLEXIBLE The malleable nature of zinc makes it easy to handle and form – great for buildings with unusual angles or curved edges. 4 ZINC MAKES FOR AN AFFORDABLE…

FLORENCE & TUSCANY EIGHT DAYS FROM ONLY £849PP* THE PRICE INCLUDES • Return flights, taxes and transfers • Three-star superior and four-star hotels, with breakfast • Visits to Florence, Siena, the Uffizi art gallery, San Gimignano, Pisa and the Tuscan countryside • Escorted by a tour manager Departures April to October 2017 POMPEII, CAPRI & THE BAY OF NAPLES EIGHT DAYS HALF BOARD FROM £779PP* THE PRICE INCLUDES • Return flights, taxes and transfers • Seven nights’ three- or four-star Sorrento hotel with half board • Visits to Sorrento, Capri, Vesuvius, Naples Archaeological Museum, Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast and Ravello • Escorted by a tour manager Departures from April to October 2017 CLASSICAL ITALY EIGHT DAYS FROM ONLY £849PP* THE PRICE INCLUDES • Return flights, taxes and transfers • Seven nights’ four-star stay, with breakfast and four evening meals…

Designed to help make life simple, practical and beautiful, the range of homeware at Garden Trading is full of pieces to help you enjoy the everyday. Start off the new year by getting organised with Garden Trading’s smart and stylish storage solutions, including shelf ladders, storage boxes, rustic wall units and painted settle benches – perfect for storing away daily clutter, so you can start afresh with an orderly home. The store’s Utility range combines metal, galvanised steel and natural wood in a collection of pieces that will help you kick off a big spring clean. And with spring just around the corner, look ahead to create space for planting and entertaining outside with Garden Trading’s expanded Bistro range. There’s also a range of gorgeous garden sofa sets, so you…

THE GLASS DE-GRUNGER Wipe away weeks worth of thick black smoke stains and sticky tar from your wood burner’s window with Hotspot’s handy stove glass cleaner £8.99 for 750ml, The Range THE FIRESIDE BUCKET For traditionalists who would rather sweep up than vacuum, this lidded ash bucket from Garden Trading is a must to help you keep your hearth clean £25, Amara THE ASH VACUUM Perfect for sucking up cold ash from fireplaces or wood burners in winter and the barbecue in summer, this cleaner has a HEPA filter to capture the finest dust £84.99, Lakeland THE SOOT SHOVEL In its pretty shade of pastel green, this fireside dustpan will help you whip up any stray ash and soot in a jiffy £4.50, English Heritage range, Wilko THE TRAD BRUSH…

SQUEEZE IT IN This W45cm model is perfect for small kitchens Beko DIS15010 slimline integrated dishwasher, £250 OH SO QUIET Great for an open-plan space, it runs at just 44dB Beko DIN28Q20 integrated dishwasher, £350 FAST WORKER Speed up cycles with the Fast+ function Beko DIN28320 integrated dishwasher, £350 FOR MORE INFORMATION... To discover Beko’s full range of appliances and how they can make your life easier, visit beko.co.uk…

Get more from your garden with a free* potato-growing kit, which contains five Potato ‘Charlotte’ Tubers – a well-known, award-winning variety that’s a must-have early cropper! The kit includes one pair of potato-scrubbing gloves, five 8ltr patio planter bags and five packs of lucky-dip vegetable and salad seeds. AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE OTHER GREAT OFFERS... BEGONIA ‘APRICOT SHADES’ The best-selling Begonia ‘Apricot Shades’ is pretty and versatile, with double blooms in sunny colours from July to October. Height: 30cm. Spread: 45cm. Supplied as tubers size 3/4. Buy five for £9.99; buy 10 for £14.98, saving £5 RASPBERRY ‘RUBY BEAUTY’ Producing 1.5kg of fruit per plant, these dwarf raspberry canes are ideal for patio containers and smaller gardens. Height: 1m. Spread: 50cm. Supplied as a 9cm potted plant. Buy one…

A Abode 01226 283434; abodedesigns.co.uk AEG 0344 561 1611; aeg.co.uk Albion Bath Company (The) 01255 831605; albionbathco.com Alexander & Pearl 020 8508 0411; alexanderandpearl.co.uk Alternative Flooring 01264 335111; alternativeflooring.com Amara 0800 587 7645; amara.com Amazon.co.uk amazon.co.uk Amberth 020 7354 8958; amberth.co.uk Anglepoise 023 9222 4450; anglepoise.com Annie Sloan 01865 713089; anniesloan.com Ao.com 0844 324 9222; ao.com Aram 020 7557 7557; aram.co.uk Argos 0345 640 3030; argos.co.uk Atkin and Thyme 020 3768 7775; atkinandthyme.co.uk B B&Q 0333 014 3098; diy.com Barker & Stonehouse 0333 355 9169; barkerandstonehouse.co.uk Baumatic 0118 931 1110; baumatic.co.uk Bedeck 0845 603 0861; bedeckhome.com Beija Flor beijaflorworld.com Beko 0845 600 4911; beko.co.uk Berry Red 0845 450 3937; berryred.co.uk Bertazzoni uk.bertazzoni.com Better Kitchens 01934 813201; betterkitchens.co.uk BHS 0333 733 1000; bhs.com Big Blu Furniture big-blu.co.uk Bloom 0844 482 2332; bloom.uk.com Bloomsbury 0845 270 2677; bloomsburystore.com Blossom & Brush 07980 881381; blossomandbrush.com Bluebellgray 0808 164 0130; bluebellgray.co.uk Bohzaar 01531 553000; bohzaar.co.uk Bold & Noble 01462 339011; boldandnoble.com Bosch 0844 892…

AB   Aston Matthews 020 7226 7220; astonmatthews.co.uk Bathroom Shop (The) 01228 512428; thebathroomshop-carlisle.co.uk Bathstore 0800 023 2323; bathstore.com Benjamin Moore 01753 575756; benjaminmoore paint.co.uk Bristan 0844 701 6273; bristan.com Bushboard 01933 232200; bushboard.co.uk C   California Shutters 0800 012 6009; californiashutters.co.uk Corian 0800 962116; corian.co.uk CP Hart 0845 873 1121; cphart.co.uk Crosswater 0345 873 8840; crosswater.co.uk D   Devon & Devon 020 7221 5137; devon-devon.com DuPont Corian 0800 962116; corian.co.uk GK   Glass 1989 020 8940 7554; glass1989.com Grohe 0871 200 3414; grohe.co.uk Heritage Bathrooms 0330 026 8503; heritagebathrooms.com John Lewis 0345 604 9049; johnlewis.com Kaldewei 0800 840 9770; kaldewei.com LN   Laura Ashley Bathroom Collection 01225 303929; lauraashleybathroom collection.com Neptune 01793 427300; neptune.com OP   On The Level 0845 257 6951; onthelevel.co.uk Original Style 01392 473000; originalstyle.com Pooky 020 7351 3003; pooky.com QR   Quick-Step 0283 025 0477;…

“Make sure you take advantage of natural light and complement it with a well-thought-out lighting scheme ” ANGELA ORTMANN-TORBETT , KALDEWEI “Polished surfaces made of enamelled steel give a sophisticated look and will reflect light, helping to open up the roomvisually ” ANGELA ORTMANN-TORBETT, KALDEWEI Shine appeal Want to add a touch of boutique-hotel chic? Go all out on the luxe front by investing in a double-ended freestanding bath with a fabulous metallic exterior. BUY THE KEY PIECE Knightsbridge freestanding bath in matte aluminium finish, £2,495, Frontline Bathrooms Possessing almost magical, space-enhancing powers, glossy surfaces, mirrored finishes and glass can make a huge difference in a bathroom. As well as adding a certain shine, they can help to boost light levels and make a compact space feel…

Add glamour with marble – you could try book-matched pieces arranged as a decorative panel behind the shower or above your bath. Bear in mind that although marble is very hardwearing, it is expensive, so you may want to use it sparingly. Protect surfaces. Stones and timbers are porous, so they need to be well sealed to stop moisture seeping into them. Clean up any spills quickly to prevent it from staining. Go for wooden storage with freestanding pieces – try ash and beech if you prefer pale wood, or oak or walnut for a darker option. Keep it cosy by fitting underfloor heating. It’ll make stone and ceramic tiles comfortable to walk on, and it’ll help dry up any puddles of water that are left behind after bathtime. Clean…

Pick a palette that reflects your mood. If you’re feeling bold and adventurous, opt for invigorating oranges and yellows. For a more relaxed, low-key space, go for soft greys and blues. Add colour to the floor but keep walls, ceilings and fittings neutral. Vinyl flooring is great value, easy to clean and comes in a variety of bright shades. Alternatively, paint original floorboards – just make sure they’re properly sealed and watertight first. Create an affordable feature wall in an instant with a sticker, which will look like it’s been painted onto your wall. Or use one to add interest to a plain white cabinet front or even on the outside of a shower screen. There are heaps of designs to choose from. Wow with window treatments. Blinds and shutters…

Pick your frame Shower panels framed with chrome are a better option for families with small children as they have softer edges. If your wetroom is going to be an adult-only area, then glass enclosures without frames look ultra-luxurious. Go for a minimal look in your room by using a single glass screen with gently bevelled safety edges. Situated opposite or to one side of the shower head, it can be secured to the ceiling or wall by a simple steel pole. Make it tough. Safety regulations ensure that cubicles and glass panels must be constructed from toughened glass. Generally, the thicker the better, with 6-8mm being the standard width, rising to 10mm or more. Go for easy-to-clean glass. The latest coatings help to prevent soap scum from adhering to…

The bathroom experts at Sottini aim to help homeowners reimagine their bathrooms. With this in mind, the brand’s products are defined by four common creative themes: Precision Lines, Minimal Elegance, Organic Forms and Crafted Creativity. Precision Lines features pieces with square lines and clean angles, like the Vomano basins and Lato bath. Minimal Elegance includes simple sanitaryware – look out for the Piota or Caffaro basins and the Rotaldo bath. In Organic Forms, designs are inspired by the natural world and feature tactile surfaces – try the Piomba bath. Crafted Creativity brings together playful style and great functionality in designs, such as the Ombrone basin. This month, Ideal Home has teamed up with Sottini to offer readers the chance to win a new bathroom suite. One winner will receive their…