The utility has to be one of my favourite rooms in the house. I mean, it is beautiful, but it is also probably the most used space. With two young (and rather messy) children our washing sometimes seems never-ending and I am so grateful to have a room entirely devoted to this. It also helps that I can shut the door and walk away when it all gets too much. Finishing the utility room has taken us a while, though.…
Before we did anything else, I came up with a wishlist for the space. I knew I wanted both a contemporary – no feet for me thank you – freestanding bath and a separate walk-in shower. I also love the look of a steel-framed shower screen…
When lockdown began, I for one had never spent so much time at home and found it did make me stop, look at my surroundings with fresh eyes and gave me time to reassess. I don’t believe anyone who says they didn’t perform some sort of DIY or room rearrangement during lockdown…
With the living room finished it was time to get the builders in to start on the first major building work – the utility room. I thought we were ready for this but, having not encountered such a big project before, I don’t think I fully understood the impact this would have on our daily lives, especially as the build was happening right next to the only bathroom in the house! I had to keep reminding myself that this was…
The builders started off by demolishing the conservatory and ripping up the patio stones. While a couple of builders were doing this, others were knocking down internal walls and taking out the old kitchen…
Shelves cost a lot less money, make the space feel less claustrophobic, and can help add personality by having some of your favourite items on view – for me it’s all about coffee pots, typographical prints, and plants. Shelves replicate professional kitchens, keeping tools, utensils, and key ingredients close to hand.…
You will be amazed what you can find in charity shops, car boot sales, and vintage fairs if you keep an open mind. Look for multi-purpose items and furniture – an old trunk can double up as a coffee table and storage while a weathered ladder makes an excellent focal point in a bathroom and will also hang towels…
It’s in times of need when the word ‘home’ really comes into its own. What does home mean to you? Safety, sanctuary, family and more…? It’s during periods of uncertainty when our homes are more important than ever. They have to be a source of comfort and calm, but they’ll also likely work harder than they have had to previously. With so much time indoors due to lockdown, each of our spaces must function at its maximum to ensure it…