Innholdsfortegnelse for February 2022 i Style At Home

If my role as project manager for the Young house renovations was subject to an annual performance review, I think it’s safe to say that I would not be getting a bonus this year. Output is well below target, deadlines have been missed, and team communication has been poor. But that does leave room for improvement in 2022! We’ve had planning approval through for a new kitchen extension, but as work on that is looking unlikely to happen anytime before the summer (we’re still stuck on a fruitless hunt for a builder), I’m determined that we will make progress by decorating other rooms in the meantime. The one advantage of multiple periods of self-isolation at the end of last year? Lots of headspace for planning. That bad performance review may…

TWO’S COMPANY As seen in design duo 2LG Studio’s magnolia-busting roles in Changing Rooms, their interior design style is all about refreshing palettes with pattern and sculptural forms. Collabs include wallpapers at Graham & Brown and rugs with Floor Story; the latest is with Made, reflecting the 2LG signature style with arcs and wiggly edges in minimalist hues. Hidden tech Ikea has launched its first smart air purifier, controlled by the Ikea Home smart app, but don’t expect to part with your money for an unsightly boxy unit. The Starkvind not only removes up to 95% of dust, allergens and VOCs from your home, but much like Ikea’s other smart technology (such as speaker lamps), the unit has been ingeniously designed so that it slips seamlessly into your room scheme.…

We’d lived in military accommodation for years, as Andy had been in the army,’ says Charlie. ‘So one of the things we were most excited about in this next stage of our lives was owning our own house and putting our stamp on it. We couldn’t wait to get the search started and were determined to find the right property to turn into our dream family home. Sense of history Scouring the villages near Tunbridge Wells in Kent, we came across this house and were drawn in at once by its historical feel and original features. The enormous sitting room had once been the village forge, where the horses would have been brought in to be shod many years ago. It still had the remains of a huge fireplace, beautiful…

Starting at the centre, apply mortar to the bottom of the surround and carve notches with a trowel. Set the first tile against the centre line and work your way out to the right. Use ¼in spacers between each tile. Work in small sections at a time so the mortar doesn’t dry out. Repeat the process on the left side. For the second row, place the first tile straddling the centre line. Work your way to the right and left as before. Continue staggering the tile placement all the way up the surround. Remove spacers once the mortar is dry, then wipe the tiles with a damp sponge. Apply grout to fill the joints. Remove excess with a damp sponge.…

After having our son Woody, we soon outgrew our two-bedroom terraced home in Linthwaite near Huddersfield,’ says Sarah. ‘It was on a main road but we wanted a semi or detached house on a quieter street with parking and a garden. While searching for other properties online, I’d scrolled past this house a few times but it was too expensive at £245,000. Our initial budget was £200,000, but it soon crept up to £220,000. We took a chance and decided to view it, even though it was over budget. The couple had seven children and when I saw their daughters baking together in the kitchen, their son playing violin in the living room and another upstairs reading a book, I knew it would be a lovely family home. Although the…

Adhesive vinyl, also known as contact paper or sticky back plastic, is a self-adhesive covering that comes in rolls or sheets with a peel-off backing. It’s an easy way to transform furniture, worktops, shelves and walls. When it comes to furniture makeover projects the possibilities are endless. Try a geometric coffee table top, use on drawer fronts, transform the inside of a glazed cabinet, create a kitchen splashback, hide an ugly dishwasher or cover stair risers. There are a dizzying array of designs out there from terrazzo, leopard print and spots to Moroccan tiles, palm leaves and clouds. Try Jes Rose, RestoWrap, Vinyl Warehouse, Dunelm or B&Q for ideas.…

ABOUT ME I’m Rachel Turner, 46, a fashion brand consultant. I live here with my partner JJ Maurage, 44, a TV editor and musician, and our daughters Edie, 14, and Minnie, seven. OUR HOME A two-bed apartment in a converted Victorian bank in Brighton, bought in March 2020. WHEN WE MOVED IN It was an unloved student rental flat that hadn’t been touched since the 1990s, with a leaking bathroom and outdated kitchen. AND NOW New kitchen and bathroom, brickwork exposed, a disused lift shaft turned into a dressing room, floors painted and the whole apartment redecorated. STYLE TIP Don’t take yourself too seriously. Buy what you like and a relaxed eclectic style will emerge.…

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Home to a wide range of products, from furniture and lighting to cutlery, that will inject character, fun or a touch of glamour into your interiors. LOVE FRANKIE An inspiring and eclectic range of made-to-order lampshades and quirky lighting ideas for something a little different. HILARY & FLO Browse faux flowers and plants, statement prints and wall art, and a varied collection of interior products, all with a funky vintage vibe to raise a smile. H&M HOME A firm favourite of Rachel’s, this store is great for inexpensive soft furnishings and kitchen essentials that look a lot more expensive than they are. FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE Check out this online treasure trove for bargain good-quality second-hand pieces of furniture and accessories, often for sale local to your area.…

the STYLE RULES UPDATE CLASSIC CABINETS Achieve a cottage kitchen look with Shaker cupboards painted in a mellow vintage yellow. Team with a warm cherry wood worktop and finish with cup handles and door knobs in brushed brass. DISPLAY VINTAGE FINDS Over-counter units with glass doors are perfect for displaying collections of crockery and glassware. Balance with shelving painted in pea green to show off vintage kitchenalia. CREATE A RUSTIC BACKDROP Swap tiles for horizontal wood panelling to make a space appear wider. Get the look for less by using a panel-effect wallpaper. MIX OLD AND NEW Team a butler sink with a classic brass bridge mixer tap. Contrast traditional features by investing in a luxury 1950s-style fridge. Why it works STYLE AT HOME SAYS……

the STYLE RULES NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE A classic Shaker kitchen is a timeless choice thanks to its painted wood cabinets and elegant framed doors. For a sophisticated look, opt for a neutral colour such as light grey, with chrome handles. HAVE IT ALL! Mixed materials are a big trend, so save on the decision making and combine a marble splashback with wood grain worktops. Why not mismatch the counter of a kitchen island to the main work surfaces? COMPLEMENT WITH COLOUR Bring sympathetic hints of colour to the scheme with soft pastel dinnerware and accessories in blush and sea green. ENHANCE THE DETAILS Natural oak-effect laminate brings out the grains in wood worktops. Be sure to pick a water resistant floorcovering in high-traffic areas.…

With a brown wooden kitchen, little light coming through the west-facing window and an unused side garden, our house needed a major rethink,’ says Jane. ‘When we asked architect Simon Skeffington for ideas, we expected him to square off the back to give us a bigger kitchen. Instead he surprised us with his creative ideas – literally sketched on the back of an envelope – which made use of the unusual wedge-shaped plot that’s narrower at the rear. We loved his suggestion for an internal courtyard of frameless glass with a Corten steel and glass extension wrapped around, which cleverly brought in the south light. The 50sq m extension gave us four extra rooms – a kitchen-diner, utility, guest bedroom and shower room – and finally made use of the…

Carcases and white doors, from £4,000, Howdens. Glacier White Corian worktops, from £116m; bespoke oak doors and shelving, from £2,500; all Architecturall Ltd. Similar Siemens built-in single oven, £799; similar Kyla bar stool, £99, both John Lewis & Partners. Similar Cleveland Grey porcelain floor tiles, £26.40sq m; similar Forge Oxide porcelain wall tiles, £34.80sq m, both Mandarin Stone. Angel kitchen tap, £132.05, sinks-taps.com. Similar Eden oak table, £569, Tikamoon. Similar Nordmyra oak chairs, £40 each, Ikea. Similar Millbank pendant light in polymer concrete, £65, Garden Trading…

Buying this 1930s semi in Ryton was my 21st home move,’ says Tracey. ‘Hopefully it’ll be my last as plans were approved for a two-storey rear extension before the sale went through. Previously my job had taken me all over the UK and even to America. However, when I started managing a store in Newcastle nearer to Scott’s workplace, we could finally buy our forever house. Planning the space The four-bedroom property only had one small bathroom so we decided to convert a bedroom into a spacious en suite. A friend helped me mark out key pieces on the floor with masking tape, which led to us forgoing the walk-in wardrobe section, where the shower is now, to make the room even bigger. It meant we could supersize everything and…

Similar Florence White 1800x750mm double-ended bath, £699.95, Wholesale Domestic. Similar Orchard Wye toilet, £209; and Orchard Wye black basin tap, £71.99, both Victoria Plum. Similar Harbour Status matt black floorstanding bath shower mixer tap, £339.99, Drench. Fresco cabinet, £499, Swoon, is an alternative. Nuie Vessels round countertop basin, £72.95, Heat & Plumb, is similar. Try Galway premium ceiling mounted black square shower head, £199.99; and Barcelona matt black heated towel rail, £104.99, both Bathroom Mountain. Hudson Reed black frame walk-in wet room shower screen, £119.20, AQVA. Similar MX Minerals 1200x900mm Ice White shower tray, £206.96, Showers to You. Metro brick flat White matt tiles, £10sq m, Tiles Direct. Oska Jungle Green matt porcelain tiles, £46.34sq m, Mandarin Stone. Similar Chambly Black matt stone effect floor tiles, £10sq m, B&Q. Balento…

Include plenty of natural materials. Chandra jute hand-braided round floor rug, £129, Cult Furniture Pick monochrome accessories with fluid shapes. Matt Black vase, £12, Dunelm Break up harsh lines with swathes of foliage. Bamboo tree in round pot, £32, Matalan Bring the outdoors in with botanical prints. Rocoto set of four towels, £49, Made Create a striking focal point above dual basins. Divide wall mirror, £110, Sweetpea & Willow Promote a sense of calm with celestial wall art. Sun and Moon Hiding Gold poster, from £6.95, Juniqe Smooth curves lend softness. Casca oval countertop basin, £89.95, Victorian Plumbing Introduce soothing shades of jade green. Glina Green gloss ceramic wall tiles, £20sq m, B&Q Stash bathroom essentials in this Trebla small woven storage basket, £30, La Redoute…

TRUE BLUE This super smart shelving unit features clever repositionable shelves. Bloomingville North shelf unit in Blue, £41.50, Beaumonde SLEEK STAND The ideal spot for a collection of perfume bottles or pretty trinkets that make your heart sing. Luciana metal triple shelf, £95, Oliver Bonas OH! NATUREL Add a touch of rattan elegance with super stylish woven shelves. Habitat water hyacinth shelf, £25 for two, Sainsburys…

3 of the best… MOUNTING TAPES ALL WEATHER Holds up to 13kg for heavy-duty applications. T-Rex clear mounting tape, £9.99, The Range WASH AND REUSE Can be reused for quick mounting and repairs. Duck max strength double sided nano tape, £3.99, Amazon ULTRA DURABLE Bonds permanently to most indoor and outdoor surfaces. Gorilla heavy duty mounting tape, £6.50, Wilko Craft your perfect palette Drawing on its 200 years of experience, paint brand Crown has launched a premium collection of 62 refined shades. Each Crafted by Crown colour is inspired by British artisans and traditional manufacturing techniques, resulting in a timeless palette of soft neutrals and rich heritage hues. Available in four finishes, including luxurious flat matt, textured suede and a lustrous metallic finish, it’s easy to achieve your…

STRAWBERRY PIMM’S COULIS CRUMPET TOWER TAKES 15 MINS SERVES 2 250g strawberries, topped and roughly chopped, plus an extra whole one for serving 2tsp caster sugar 80ml Pimm’s 5 large mint leaves, torn, plus extra to serve 6 crumpets 50ml Greek yogurt, to serve 1 Place the strawberries in a saucepan with the caster sugar and heat gently. 2 Lightly mash to release some juice. Add the Pimm’s and simmer for 2 mins. Stir in half the shredded mint leaves, then blitz in a food processor until smooth. 3 Strain through a sieve, then stir in the rest of the mint leaves. 4 Toast the crumpets, then layer up with a spoonful of the coulis between each. Top with Greek yogurt, more coulis and the extra strawberries. SMOKED SALMON WITH…

When mixing up pattern scales on cushions and soft furnishings, pick out one or two unifying colours to make it work 3 of the best… SCULPTURAL VASES…

The secret’s out! Dulux has announced its Colour of the Year 2022, Bright Skies. This fresh and airy shade of blue has an uplifting feel, perfect for breathing new life into your decor. Inspired by clear blue skies, this spring-ready tone looks great on walls, and offers a soft accent colour on upholstery and lighting. Pair with soothing pastels or team with neutrals for a laidback scheme.…

ABOUT ME I’m Charlie Gooch, 43, a freelance nutritionist, and I live here with my husband Andy, an engineer, and our children, twins Beatrice and Alice, 10, and William, seven. MY HOME A five-bedroom, Grade II-listed detached house encompassing the old village forge, near Tunbridge Wells, Kent. WHEN WE MOVED IN The layout was unusual and the configuration of rooms didn’t suit us, but we loved the house’s connection to history. AND NOW We brought in builders and an architect to help transform the property into a unique family home we can continue to grow into. STYLE TIP Take time to research your dream look and don’t do anything too rash. I spent hours pulling together mood boards to inspire the feel of each room.…

MILLIE & ROSE ‘I’ve known the owner since I was eight and her taste is exquisite. I particularly love the lampshades we’ve chosen.’ TRACY ROBERTS TEXTILES ‘For hand-finished curtains and cushions that are thoughtfully designed, and a personal, friendly service.’ MUSTARD ‘Their bright metal lockers add fun to a bedroom.’ CULT FURNITURE ‘Whether you’re looking for a contemporary piece or a timeless classic, they’ve got affordable furniture to suit all.’…

ABOUT ME I’m Sarah Haigh, 37, an eBay manager for the RSPCA. I live here with my husband Darryl, 34, a design engineer, and our children Elsie, 12, and Woody, six. MY HOME A 1920s four-bed semi in Meltham, Huddersfield, bought in 2016 (@haighyshomeinyorkshire). WHEN WE MOVED IN The kitchen felt disjointed with not enough storage and the bathroom carpet had to go! Most of the walls were beige, which just isn’t me. AND NOW We’ve added a downstairs loo, replaced the family bathroom and updated the existing kitchen. Every room’s been redecorated in dark, cosy tones with pops of colour. STYLE TIP Use paint samples on every wall to see how the light hits. The colour will change through the day and look different on each wall.…

Add partitions or raised platforms, or incorporate a kitchen island to create a clear divide between the cooking, eating and relaxing areas. Use rugs to visually separate the space. They can be different sizes and shapes, textured or a simple woven design. Contrasting paint colours on door frames or arches subtly signify the different zones in the open space. Decorate walls in contrasting ways, from simple white to exposed brickwork, and tiles or painted cabinetry in the kitchen. Lighting is key to create different vibes in each area – you could opt for a large pendant light over the dining table, wall lights in the kitchen, and floor and table lamps in the living area.…

Rachel has created a loft-like apartment by embracing some of the building’s raw finishes, such as the exposed brick wall and painted floorboards. The white base has been given warmth with some classic pieces – the retro sideboard and wooden framed sofa add rich tones along with the Berber-style rug. Leather accents, plenty of green houseplants and graphic artwork help to create the modern eclectic style. £30 Inject a glam flash of brass. Dacite pendant ceiling light, B&Q £30 Liven up white walls with an iconic print. Debbie Harry, 1980, by Andy Warhol, KING & McGAW £159.99 An update on a retro classic. Capri sideboard, VONHAUS £27 Nestle among real plants. Marie cactus vase, LATZIO LIVING £39sq m Create your own pattern. Semaphore tiles, CLAYBROOK £66 Add subtle style with…

the STYLE RULES CREATE CLEAN LINES Instead of wall-mounted units, install two continuous rows of open shelving. Display terracotta pots filled with cacti and herbs, plus pretty painted ceramics for a Mediterranean vibe. PICK CONTEMPORARY HARDWARE Complete the clutter-free look with modern chrome mixer taps and under-counter sinks for a sleek, uncomplicated finish. ADD PATTERN WITH TILES Use geometric porcelain tiles to create a lively splashback below the shelves. Pick in-frame floor units in a deep azure blue to coordinate with the wall tiles. UTILISE NATURAL MATERIALS Incorporate texture with light wood grain worktops, rattan stools and woven pendant lights. Finish the look by laying light oak effect flooring to match the counter.…

Create a craft house Make tidying up paints and brushes more exciting by giving them a special home. Wallpapering behind a cube shelf transforms it into a fun little house. Upcycle stools Grab some tester pots and get creative to give wooden stools a fun makeover. Mask off areas with decorator’s tape to add stripes and blocks of colour. Put up a magnetic wall  Attach a sheet of mild steel to the wall to create an inexpensive floor-to-ceiling memo board. Add some colourful magnets and help younger kids get creative. Fit in a work desk Stop a run of built-in cupboards short to fit in a compact desk area – perfect for teens and beyond. A pegboard painted the same colour as the walls is a great place to store…

ABOUT ME I’m Jane Neil, a graphic designer, and I live here with my husband Guy, a town planner, and our daughter Ellen, nine, in an extended five-bedroom semi-detached 1900 house in Beckenham, southeast London. MY CHALLENGE Although it was in good condition, our ’90s kitchen was dated and felt dark. We never really used the garden properly as it was a dead area, so we wanted a bigger, sunnier kitchen-diner that linked to the outside space. MY WISH LIST I wanted a sociable kitchen with a contemporary style and industrial touches. A long island where I could cook and chat to people sitting at stools was a must.…

New doors and fascias can provide a quick and affordable refresh. Jane’s replacement doors were made to measure by a carpenter, but lots of off-the-peg designs are available. Are all kitchens suitable for door replacement? Check your existing carcasses are in good condition first. It is a false economy to fit new doors to cupboards that are on their last legs – anything under eight years’ old should be a safe bet but check for structural damage, particularly around the sink area. door How do sizes I order ? the right ‘UPGRADING YOUR KITCHEN WITH NEW FRONTS LETS YOU GET A NEW LOOK WITHOUT HAVING TO REDO THE WHOLE KITCHEN’RUTH CORBETT, HOUSES EDITOR The easiest way to replace doors like-for-like is to measure what’s in situ. Measure from the back,…

ABOUT ME I’m Tracey Yeoh, 39, a retail store manager and I live here with my husband, Scott Kelly, 41, a firefighter, in a three-bedroom 1930s semi in Ryton, Tyne and Wear (@1930s_ryton_reno). We got the keys in August 2020. MY CHALLENGE Turning a bedroom into an en suite bathroom with an Asian feel, while sourcing all the components on a tight budget. MY WISH LIST We wanted it all – a supersized bath, walk-in shower and double vanity unit. I also wanted to find perfect jade green tiles that matched my vision.…

Small spaces, sloping ceilings, uneven walls and unusual alcoves are common in bathrooms, particularly in period properties or when overall space is tight. But it’s not all bad news. Irregular architecture and imperfections can result in a compelling, character-filled place to bathe and unwind. Can I improve the shape? The more you spend on building work, the less you’ll have for fittings. Stealing space from an adjacent bedroom or relocating a water tank might provide extra inches but do get costings in advance. Moving an external window is usually far pricier than an internal doorway, for example. How do I plan the layout? By prioritising. Compromise is often inevitable so start by listing your must-haves and work out the impact awkward features will have on where they can go. Sloped…

MINI CARROT CAKE LOAVES TAKES 1 HR PLUS COOLING TIME MAKES 8 FOR THE CAKES: 150g wholemeal self-raising flour 1tsp baking powder 100g ground almonds 175g soft light muscovado sugar 2tsp mixed spice 50g raisins 120g vegetable oil 300g carrots, grated 2 eggs FOR THE FILLING 40g cream cheese 20ml double cream 1tbsp icing sugar Zest of ½ orange FOR THE TOPPING 125g white chocolate 2tbsp toasted flaked almonds YOU WILL NEED 8 mini loaf tins, greased and bases lined Piping bag 1 Heat the oven to 170C/Gas 3. For the cakes, mix the dry ingredients together, then mix in the oil, grated carrot and eggs. Spoon into the tins and bake for 30 mins. Remove from the tins and cool. 2 For the filling, whisk the cream cheese, double…

Ready, steady, sort! TIDY YOUR CLEANING PRODUCTS Sort through your bottles, sprays and cloths, and put almost-empty products to the front to be used up first. AUDIT YOUR UNDIES Have a root through your bras, knickers and socks, throwing away anything that have seen better days. ORGANISE YOUR CRAFT STASH Put away winter projects in favour of spring makes - swap seasonal pieces so it’s easy to grab when inspiration strikes.…

Pick up punch needle Punch needle is an age-old craft that has recently made a comeback. In Modern Punch Needle (£14.99, GMC), Duygu Turgut Gökpınar celebrates her love of this easy embroidery style by compiling 22 unique projects, along with detailed guides on tools, materials and key techniques. The book also includes two pattern sheets containing same-size motifs and YouTube videos accessed via QR codes. There are plenty of modern projects to try, from wall hangings to more beginner-friendly makes such as cushions. 3 of the best GENIUS GADGETS QUICK STICK So Crafty glue gun, £4.99. Aldi SPEEDY SEWING Hemline Gold needle threaders, £2 for a set of two, Hobbycraft PERFECT POMS Clover large pom-pom makers, £8.50 for a set of two, John Lewis & Partners POTTY ABOUT POTTERY Following…

A match made in foodie heaven Our latest obsession is this divine creation from ManiLife. Renowned for its oh-so-good peanut butter, ManiLife has taken things one step further and combined its flavoursome deep roasted peanut butter with sustainably sourced cocoa to create an ultra-decadent spread. It’s great on bread and brilliant to use in bakes. 3 of the best GINS FRESH & BOLD Handcrafted from start to finish. Bathtub Gin, £25 for 70cl, Amazon CITRUS TWIST Fantastic gin with added zesty pep. Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin, £39.50 for 70cl, Waitrose & Partners BLOOMING GREAT Fruity and floral. Bloom Passionfruit & Vanilla Blossom gin, £25 for 70cl, Tesco, Sainsbury’s Treat yourself Vegans no longer have to miss out on that dreamy smooth Cadbury chocolate. The brand has swapped…

M&S SCANDI GEO Combine simple shapes and refreshing colours for an uplifting scheme Laura Ashley VINTAGE GLAMOUR Soft pastels and painted furniture create a sophisticated look Habitat EASTERN PROMISE Create a sophisticated look using Japanese influences and luxe metallics…

To carry out renovations on a listed building that may change the building’s character, architecture or historic value, you’ll need to get written building consent from your local planning authority. First, check with your local authority conservation officer as to what type of consent is needed for your project. This is important for buildings with a Grade I or II. To apply, you’ll need a completed application form, site plans, and detailed drawings for specific items of work. The full list of documents can be found on your local authority’s website. Carrying out unauthorised works to a listed building is a criminal offence and can result in heavy penalties, so it’s not worth taking the risk!…

Charlie has enhanced the historic features of her Grade II-listed home by choosing a sympathetic palette of pared-back neutrals. Her love of animals has inspired pieces such as the quirky hare lamp and botanical print cushions. Reclaimed materials and classic shaped furnishings like the button-back chairs complement the brick walls and original beams, while skilfully positioned lighting makes the space feel welcoming.…

You’ll need: MDF frame cut to your bed width (or existing headboard to recover), spray adhesive, pencil, tape measure, scissors, staple gun, fabric, batting, 5cm thick foam. 1 Use scissors or an electric knife to cut foam to the same size as the MDF or headboard, then attach with spray-on upholstery adhesive. 2 Add a larger layer of batting on top with enough to bend around and staple to the back of the MDF. 3 Start stapling from the centre, alternating between opposite sides so the fabric tension is even. 4 Do the same with your chosen fabric, taking care to cut out a small piece when folding over the corners to create a clean pleat that’s not too bulky. 5 Use heavy-duty flush mount interlocking brackets (try Amazon) to…

My partner JJ and I had moved to a village on the outskirts of Brighton when our daughters Edie and Minnie were little, for a change of pace and a home with much more space compared to our previous property in nearby Hove,’ says Rachel. ‘It was supposed to be a short-term change, but in the blink of an eye, six years had passed, and our eldest daughter Edie was now a teenager! ‘She was beginning to struggle with living in the country, spending more time with friends in town. As we were keen to get back on the Brighton property ladder, we decided a move back into the city was our next step. Elsewhere in the country we might have afforded a grand, family home. In Brighton, however, we…

Find a vintage cabinet or table that you love and that will fit nicely into the space. Paint it in a fun colour or varnish it in a natural wood shade. Add a marble or stone top to create a different look if you like. Find a counter-top basin that will sit on it, with space either side. Measure and make a hole in the top of the piece of furniture to accommodate the plumbing and secure the basin in place on top. Fit your new vanity unit into position and have the washbasin professionally plumbed in.…

the STYLE RULES FIND YOUR FORMAT For ultimate versatility and for everything to have its own place, combine full-height wall and floor cabinets with above-counter units and open shelving. Integrated appliances also provide a clean look. MIX MATERIALS Introduce subtle pattern with white marble-effect worktops and a light wood-look laminate on floors. Long white wall tiles laid in a herringbone pattern add further interest. EMBRACE MINIMALIST STYLE Opt for frameless, slab-fronted cabinets for a seamless look and effortless functionality. Team with simple door and drawer handles. PICK INVITING SHADES Swap gloss for a contemporary matt finish in a soft pastel blue or green colourway. Contrast with terracotta lighting and accessories.…

the STYLE RULES CREATE AN URBAN JUNGLE Pick contemporary slab-fronted cabinets for a seamless look with an urban apartment feel. Choose a deep green shade with a matt lacquer finish to connect the space with nature. ADD WOW WITH WALLPAPER Juxtapose colour block units with a statement botanical wallpaper featuring painterly tropical leaves. A white marble worktop and butler sink create a striking contrast against the green. INCREASE FUNCTIONALITY Floor-to-ceiling built-in cabinets around a recess will maximise space. Handleless doors produce a clean, uninterrupted look. PARQUET ADDS PATTERN Introduce interest with wood-effect flooring in a herringbone design. Vinyl is perfect for kitchens as it’s easy to clean and repels water. Why it works STYLE AT HOME SAYS… ‘Vibrant tropical wallpaper brings this slab kitchen to…

1 Add a sunny colour pop shelf Utilise wall space by extending the mantel to reach the width of the room, then inject a vibrant block of colour by painting the shelf the same colour as the wall below. Wood panelling adds to the cosy country cabin feel and the zesty yellow walls teamed with a relaxed denim sofa bring a contemporary edge. 2 CREATE A VANITY STYLING STATION A panel above a chest is a clever way to hang jewellery. Loop necklaces over pins, while earrings can be pushed straight into the cork. 3 Double up on storage space Make the most of the space either side of a bathroom vanity unit by adding two tall cabinets. Not only will they frame it nicely, but they will provide plenty…

Try rust or concrete-effect paint or wallpaper to add texture. Slip bricks are a great way to create an industrial feature wall. Try concrete-look porcelain tiles as a cheaper alternative to a polished concrete floor. Pick stools with metal legs and either wooden or leather seats to tie into your scheme. Factory-style pendants are available in an array of colours, so you can match the shade to your accent colour. Look out for old weighing scales, vintage clocks, bar carts and wooden printer trays to accessorise the room.…

This graphic design adds a contemporary touch. Karlsson flip clock, £205, Red Candy Create some bespoke storage with the Billy bookcase, £45, Ikea A super stylish way to make the morning brew. Le’Xpress stovetop coffee maker, £59.99, Lakeland A colourful addition to the hob or shelf. Casserole dish, £49.50, M&S This graphic design adds a contemporary touch. Luggage wall clock, £65, Annabel James A modern classic that never goes out of style. Kyla bar stool, £99, John Lewis & Partners Choose modern utility style with the simple E27 pendant lamp, £68, Nunido Storage made for open shelving. Lena square cake tins, £10, Dunelm Both pretty and practical. Kitchen scale, £29.99, Robert Dyas…

The platform should extend at least 30cm wider and longer than your bath. Building the frame and platform from timber and plywood is a fairly easy job for a joiner, but requires accurate measuring and cutting. 2 Make sure your joiner leaves a removable opening in the front panel for access to pipework. 3 Victorian Plumbing sells a 1000mm ready-to-tile bath step for £209. Use a waterproof floor covering, such as tile backer board with ceramic tiles or waterproof vinyl.…

VIRTUAL PLANNING Villeroy & Boch’s augmented-reality app lets you view fittings in your bathroom so you can check the look and fit, and change size, shape and colour before you buy. STRUCTURAL ADVICE The Institute of Structural Engineers (istructe.org) has a database of qualified structural engineers, plus free homeowner advice and how to commission the right expert for your job. SPECIALIST SOLUTIONS Ideal Standard’s Concept Space range includes tapered baths, corner basins and short-projection loos, designed by Robin Levien, for awkwardly shaped rooms.…