FEED Validator

for Atom and RSS and KML

Congratulations!

This is a valid RSS feed.

Recommendations

This feed is valid, but interoperability with the widest range of feed readers could be improved by implementing the following recommendations.

line 2, column 0: The prefix "dc" generally is associated with the namespace "http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" [help]
```
<rss version="2.0"
```

line 498, column 93: category should not contain HTML: & (4 occurrences) [help]

... category><![CDATA[Costs &amp; Savings]]></category>
                                             ^

line 815, column 262: media:text should not contain HTML unless declared in the type attribute: " (2 occurrences) [help]

... ot; at the Cineworld Leicester Square]]></media:text>
                                             ^

line 816, column 192: media:title should not contain HTML unless declared in the type attribute: " (2 occurrences) [help]

... ot; at the Cineworld Leicester Square]]></media:title>
                                             ^

Source: https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/feeds.xml

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
xmlns:dc="https://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/"
xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
>
<channel>
<atom:link href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/feeds.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
<title><![CDATA[ Latest from Homebuilding & Renovating ]]></title>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk</link>
<description><![CDATA[ All the latest content from the Homebuilding & Renovating team ]]></description>
<lastBuildDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:42:19 +0000</lastBuildDate>
<language>en</language>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Amanda Byram’s upcoming ‘Scandi beauty’ kitchen shows why Scandinavian renovations are all the rage ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Amanda Byram has given fans an exciting update on her home renovation, revealing the progress of her Scandinavian-inspired kitchen.</p><p>“I am sooo excited to see it come together now!” she shared on Instagram, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/amandabyram/?hl=en#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">@amandabyram</a>, capturing the thrill of seeing her vision start to take shape.</p><p>Between managing family life and overseeing <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-renovate-a-kitchen">kitchen renovations</a>, Amanda is embracing the process with excitement, and a bit of patience.</p><h2 id="scandinavian-style-in-focus-2">Scandinavian style in focus </h2><div class="instagram-embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="6" style="width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DQJ0mweAjCG/" target="_blank">A post shared by Amanda Byram (@amandabyram)</a></p><p>A photo posted by on </p></blockquote></div><p>Amanda’s plans reflect the hallmarks of Scandinavian <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/designing-a-kitchen">kitchen design</a>: clean lines, muted tones, and natural materials that combine style with practicality.</p><p>“So we went for the Scandi beauty (I know I said Swedish – I meant to say Scandi 🤣),” she wrote, highlighting her excitement for a style that feels timeless yet family-friendly.</p><p>While the space is still very much a work-in-progress, Amanda is beginning to see how the layout and materials will come together to create a practical and inviting kitchen once complete.</p><h2 id="seeing-the-space-come-alive-2">Seeing the space come alive </h2><div class="instagram-embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="6" style="width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DPd0E6DDBAQ/" target="_blank">A post shared by Amanda Byram (@amandabyram)</a></p><p>A photo posted by on </p></blockquote></div><p>For Amanda, the most thrilling part of the renovation has been watching the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-kitchen-layout">kitchen’s layout</a> truly take shape.</p><p>“I’ve never really been able to envisage just how wide this kitchen could be, but now I can see it coming together!” she said.</p><p>With her partner, Julian, frequently on-site to give surprise updates, Amanda has enjoyed seeing the project evolve even when she can’t be there in person.</p><h2 id="family-art-and-gatherings-2">Family, art, and gatherings </h2><p>Amanda says the kitchen isn’t just about design, it’s about creating a space for connection.</p><p>Amanda plans to feature a striking art piece by <em>Rajan Seth</em> on the wall, adding personality to the space.</p><p>“I can really envisage family dinners and friend gatherings now!!” she wrote, emphasising that the kitchen is designed to be the heart of her home.</p><h2 id="amanda-gives-praise-to-her-renovation-team-2">Amanda gives praise to her renovation team</h2><div class="instagram-embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="6" style="width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DPUakhciZeu/" target="_blank">A post shared by Amanda Byram (@amandabyram)</a></p><p>A photo posted by on </p></blockquote></div><p>Amanda credited the renovation team for their hard work: “The amazing @complete_refurbishments team are knee deep!”</p><p>She’s also eagerly anticipating the next stages of the home. “Getting close now!!” she enthused, showing that even with the challenges of renovation, seeing each stage come together makes the process worth it.</p><p>Amanda Byram’s upcoming kitchen perfectly illustrates why Scandinavian design continues to be a favourite: it’s stylish, practical, and built for family living, proving that even in progress, a Scandi kitchen can inspire.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/kitchen/amanda-byrams-upcoming-scandi-beauty-kitchen-shows-why-scandinavian-renovations-are-all-the-rage</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Amanda Byram shares her latest kitchen update, showing the progress of her Scandinavian-inspired renovation and family-focused design ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">xZToLbYTtPZT2LBJBsDvD9</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/o9aYAXCf39HkmTWCGS38nj-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:42:19 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Kitchen]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/o9aYAXCf39HkmTWCGS38nj-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Amanda Byram attends the Pride of Britain Awards 2018 at The Grosvenor House Hotel]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Amanda Byram attends the Pride of Britain Awards 2018 at The Grosvenor House Hotel]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/o9aYAXCf39HkmTWCGS38nj-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Give your forgotten landing a new purpose with these expert-approved storage ideas ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>For many homes, the landing is a bit of a no man’s land – somewhere you pass through countless times a day without giving it much thought. Too small to be a room, yet too visible to ignore, it’s a space that often ends up doing very little. But with a bit of imagination, this overlooked area can work far harder than you think.</p><p>Built-in shelving can turn an empty stretch of wall into a smart display, while a bespoke window seat might hide away spare linens or board games beneath its cushions. Even a narrow console or a few floating shelves can bring order and style to an otherwise forgotten spot.</p><p>The trick is to treat your<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/incredible-landing-ideas-to-add-wow-factor"> landing ideas</a> with the same attention as any other room, because when it’s thoughtfully designed, this small space can add big impact. These expert-approved landing storage ideas show exactly how.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-go-fully-bespoke-with-a-built-in-unit"><span>1. Go fully bespoke with a built in unit</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="C4MR7QRYH5i6j7KA286fMM" name="Landing storage" alt="Elegant built-in hallway storage with floor-to-ceiling cabinetry in soft grey. Glass-fronted doors reveal neatly stacked linens and woven baskets, while lower drawers and upper cupboards keep the space organised and serene." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/C4MR7QRYH5i6j7KA286fMM.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em></em><a href="https://www.sharps.co.uk/living-spaces/sherbourne" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>Sharps Sherbourne Hallway furniture</em></a><em> fits seamlessly into this busy landing, offering elegant built-in storage that keeps linens and bedding neatly tucked away when they’re not in use.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Sharps)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Every landing is different – a slope here, a window there, a wall that’s too short for furniture but too long to ignore. Going bespoke with your storage allows you to design around those quirks, creating storage that feels built <em>in</em> rather than added<em> on</em>.</p><p>“The beauty of bespoke design lies in its flexibility – you can get truly creative and tailor the space to your needs,” explains Rachal Hutcheson, national retail manager at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.sharps.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Sharps.</a> “For busy households, optimising every area is essential, but the key is to strike the right balance between function and aesthetic for a considered, elevated look. Combine closed cabinets to discreetly hide everyday items with open shelving for displaying books and cherished trinkets to add personality and warmth.”</p><p>Jonathan Clark, creative director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.shelved.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Shelved</a>, has the following advice for planning bespoke storage: “Start by assessing the features that are already in the area. If your landing has a window, a window seat with built-in or modular storage is a discreet, seamless solution, keeping the space feeling light and open. Aim to keep the design cohesive with the rest of your home – coordinate finishes and colours with adjoining rooms or the bannister, and don’t be afraid to add personal touches such as houseplants or artwork.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-opt-for-built-in-bookcases"><span>2. Opt for built-in bookcases </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="Dm7YhrjtxtkQPQ5ADZnUVk" name="flooring mistakes_Amberley Oak" alt="dark wooden flooring on landing with blue chair and built in storage shelf" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Dm7YhrjtxtkQPQ5ADZnUVk.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Built-in shelving turns an unused wall into a practical focal point, for a look that feels both ordered and beautifully integrated with the rest of the home.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Urbane Living)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A run of built-in shelving can do wonders for a landing. Whether you’re <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/book-storage-ideas">storing books</a>, lining up baskets or displaying ceramics, adjustable shelves keep the look flexible, while closed cabinetry below creates room for the less presentable things that still need a place to live.</p><p>If bespoke joinery isn’t within reach, a slim freestanding unit can still deliver that same sense of order. Choose a shallow profile so it doesn’t eat into the walkway and finish it in a tone that echoes the staircase or wall colour to help it settle quietly into its surroundings.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-add-hidden-storage-beneath-a-window"><span>3. Add hidden storage beneath a window</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="qjWQbW8eq96df3mrSPNVgP" name="Landing Storage Ideas" alt="A bright, cosy window nook features a seat upholstered in patterned fabric with green and beige woodland motifs, paired with matching cushions. A soft grey pillow adds contrast, while a mustard yellow floor lamp and striped woven bag bring warmth to the space." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qjWQbW8eq96df3mrSPNVgP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A matching blind and cushion in</em><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/product/fabric/prints/dulcet-in-old-white/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em> Dulcet by Annie Sloan</em></a><em> add pattern and softness to this built-in window seat, which doubles as discreet storage.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Annie Sloan)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If your landing has a window, it’s the ideal place to build in a seat with hidden storage. A lift-up lid or discreet drawers beneath the cushion keeps everything from spare linens to children’s toys neatly out of sight. Melissa Denham, interior design expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.hammonds-uk.com/why-hammonds/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hammonds Furniture</a>, explains the appeal of these designs:</p><p>“Window seats not only provide a perfect spot for settling down with a good book and a cup of tea, but they also offer a perfect storage solution," she says. “Choosing a built-in bay window seat means you have a comfy seat to relax on as well as a space underneath to store essentials such as blankets, pillows, books and accessories."</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-float-furniture-for-a-light-touch-solution"><span>4. Float furniture for a light-touch solution</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:133.33%;"><img id="mrbGoEGtEPEsNvCx92WGVM" name="Orbiform Ceiling Light.jpg" alt="a semiflush pendant landing lighting idea" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mrbGoEGtEPEsNvCx92WGVM.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1500" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A floating console keeps this narrow landing feeling open and airy, offering just enough surface space for essentials while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look. </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Limelace)</span></figcaption></figure><p>“Minimalist design really is the best approach for landings, because bulky furniture instantly blocks the flow,” explains Edward Simon, director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.direct-fabrics.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Direct Fabrics</a>. “Keeping it light with floating shelves or slimline recessed units makes the space useful without weighing it down. Even a narrow alcove can be turned into a bookshelf, or a shallow floating console can give you a spot for keys or post without sticking out.”</p><p>Floating furniture adds function without footprint, which is ideal for displaying books, baskets or decorative objects while keeping the area open. Just make sure you keep the styling restrained so the shelves don’t overpower the space.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-keep-furniture-slim-and-streamlined"><span>5. Keep furniture slim and streamlined</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="oNMWUpKXN468i7zN3wZq69" name="Landing Storage Ideas" alt="Compact wooden hallway cabinet with vertical slatted doors and slim black metal legs. Styled with a sculptural black lamp, abstract artwork, and neutral decor, it creates a modern, welcoming corner." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oNMWUpKXN468i7zN3wZq69.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>This slim, slatted cabinet strikes the perfect balance between form and function.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Cox & Cox)</span></figcaption></figure><p>On a narrow landing, depth matters just as much as height. The aim is to create storage that feels purposeful without adding too much bulk. Slim-profile pieces — a narrow console with drawers or a low shelving unit — work beautifully tucked into alcoves, where they can replicate the look of bespoke joinery.</p><p>When painted in the same tone as the surrounding walls or skirting, these streamlined pieces appear built-in, giving a polished, tailored feel without the cost or permanence of custom cabinetry.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-think-vertically-where-possible"><span>6. Think vertically where possible</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:190.95%;"><img id="tR9MdbzsszXTzf4M786rDR" name="Landing Storage" alt="A tall wooden shelving unit with a built-in desk fills a modern room with a sloping ceiling. A man stands on a ladder, reaching for books on the upper shelves. The unit features open compartments, some filled with books, plants, and ceramics, and a computer sits on the desk below." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/tR9MdbzsszXTzf4M786rDR.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="3819" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>What about making the most of your vertical height, even the bits you can’t reach? If you have the space, a workstation with full height storage and an integrated ladder might be what you need.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Goldfinch Furniture )</span></figcaption></figure><p>“To maximise space, think vertically – tall, narrow shelving or wall-mounted units are excellent for books and decorative storage,” says Maxwell Wilson, co-founder of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.pocket.storage/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pocket Storage</a>. “Keep style in mind too: matching finishes and colours with your staircase or hallway creates a seamless look, while closed storage keeps clutter out of sight and helps maintain a calm, open feel.”</p><p>For Jonathan Clark vertical storage is especially useful on awkward or compact landings. “Wall-mounted solutions draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of height that makes the space feel larger. Wall corner units are another smart choice, hugging the walls while keeping walkways unobstructed."</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-7-turn-awkward-corners-and-sloped-ceilings-into-standout-features"><span>7. Turn awkward corners and sloped ceilings into standout features</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="hBVogPgFeqL8vTQYdfdJNL" name="Landing Storage Ideas" alt="A small reading nook under a sloped ceiling features a built-in bed framed with vertical wooden slats. Natural light pours in through a skylight above, illuminating shelves filled with colourful books." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hBVogPgFeqL8vTQYdfdJNL.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>This reading nook was designed by </em><a href="https://goldfinchfurniture.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>Goldfinch Furniture</em></a><em> and made with </em><a href="https://www.pencilandbrick.co.uk/"><em>Pencil and Brick</em></a><em>. It uses an otherwise wasted part of the landing to create a space that stores children's books and toys. </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://goldfinchfurniture.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Goldfinch Furniture</a> / <a href="https://www.pencilandbrick.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pencil and Brick</a> )</span></figcaption></figure><p>Tricky architectural shapes often hold the most untapped potential. But sloped ceilings, eaves or narrow corners can all be transformed with low, built-in cabinetry or shallow shelving that follows the line of the roof. Where head height allows, consider custom drawers or cupboards that taper to fit under the slope.</p><p>Melissa Denham explains how to get the most out of these awkward spaces: “Low-lying furniture can make rooms feel larger by nestling neatly beneath a sloping ceiling,” she says. “A bench or chaise-style seat can continue your design theme, giving you the chance to experiment with fabrics and finishes, while wide cabinets or bookcases make smart use of otherwise empty areas. Balance smaller-scale pieces with large artwork or mirrors to create interest and help open up the space.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-8-add-a-freestanding-bench-or-ottoman-with-hidden-storage"><span>8. Add a freestanding bench or ottoman with hidden storage</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="GsyoFnuUzoLAWxGRgGezQL" name="Landing Storage Ideas" alt="A traditional hallway corner with pale green panelled walls and matching floral wallpaper panels. A cushioned bench topped with stacked pillows and a folded blanket adds a cosy, classic touch." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GsyoFnuUzoLAWxGRgGezQL.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>This upholstered ottoman from </em><a href="https://www.dfs.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>DFS </em></a><em>combines comfort with practicality, offering hidden storage beneath its cushioned top. </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://www.dfs.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">DFS</a>)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A storage bench or ottoman is a neat way to bring purpose to an empty stretch of landing. As well as offering a place to pause or put things down, it's also a convenient spot to keep blankets, shoes or books neatly tucked away. Because these pieces stand alone, they’re especially useful for rented homes or in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/small-landing-ideas">small landings</a> where built-in joinery simply isn’t practical.</p><p>Size and proportion are important factors to consider. A design that's too bulky will be hard to navigate around; too small, and it risks looking lost in the space. Choose a unit that feels in tune with your home’s style, such as simple timber lines for a modern look, or an upholstered seat in a soft, textured fabric for something a little more traditional.</p><h2 id="ottomans-and-storage-benches-2">Ottomans and storage benches </h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="3796c210-190d-406d-a30d-f78879446996"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/faux-linen-corner-ottoman-1000260629?defaultSkuId=30967066" data-model-name="Faux Linen Corner Ottoman" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/f2dgSrd9XnfU4Mo6JknvtJ.jpg' alt="Faux Linen Corner Ottoman"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Faux Linen Corner Ottoman</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This faux linen ottoman can be assembled in seconds and acts as a seat, a footrest, and a storage box.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="cc666b61-6d58-4e3a-861c-9bcd8e2c0a8d"> <a href="https://www.habitat.co.uk/product/7763364?clickPR=plp:3:13" data-model-name="Habitat Onda Large Fabric Ottoman " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nCdCsSLBQZ5uwunkYK59ii.jpg' alt="Habitat Onda Large Fabric Ottoman - Natural"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Habitat Onda Large Fabric Ottoman </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This stylish ottoman is bang on trend, with its neutral colour and softly rounded curves. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ca1efdab-68fb-4240-b1c7-26be66c6e368"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/beatrice-storage-bench-1000257066?defaultSkuId=30990555&gad_campaignid=19822798061&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADGqyX2jLBVl2qdG2zf7WA4AV3oTR&gclid=CjwKCAjwup3HBhAAEiwA7euZug11hsdmGRP9V4aGfTT0HbtGiY2w9Eyt78m3w5n8a3DemB2H9hwQ1RoC1YAQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&utm_campaign=Living+Room_Living+Room-PMax_%5BGOO-PLA-FURNLIVI-FURNLIVI%5D&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&colour=Green" data-model-name="Beatrice Storage Bench" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UnK34smY3fH2cf3yXKY3Y6.jpg' alt="Beatrice Storage Bench"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Beatrice Storage Bench</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Add a pop of colour to your landing storage, with this charming striped storage bench. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-9-add-baskets-and-boxes-for-flexible-storage"><span>9. Add baskets and boxes for flexible storage</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="8y9kJDM75WMxr2wChSeLJL" name="Landing Storage Ideas" alt="A stylish built-in storage nook painted in soft sage green fills a sloped-ceiling landing. Woven baskets are neatly tucked into cubby holes beneath a wooden bench, with more baskets displayed on a shelf above. A brass wall light adds warmth to the space." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8y9kJDM75WMxr2wChSeLJL.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Woven baskets bring a natural warmth to this fitted storage, adding texture and tactility while keeping everyday essentials neatly contained. </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://chauncey.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chaunceys Timber Flooring</a>)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sometimes the simplest storage is the most effective. Decorative baskets and boxes are ideal for landings, offering a way to keep smaller items organised without introducing heavy furniture. They can sit neatly on open shelves, under a console or even in an unused corner, bringing texture and warmth while keeping the space easy to adapt as your needs change.</p><p><strong>Top tip: </strong>Look for natural materials such as rattan, wicker or woven seagrass to add softness against painted walls and hard flooring.</p><h2 id="shop-storage-baskets-2">Shop storage baskets</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="f5458a67-3d24-4602-999a-07975f71e8d7"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/medium-wall-hanging-jute-storage-basket-1000267104?defaultSkuId=30984113" data-model-name="Wall Hanging Storage Basket" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vWZkyM6SZJKbMuzUKaYHnJ.jpg' alt="Medium Wall Hanging Jute Storage Basket"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Wall Hanging Storage Basket</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Hang a basket from a peg and you’ve instantly added extra storage — a clever, space-saving touch that keeps everyday bits and pieces within reach without taking up any floor space.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="502fe942-f4f6-4fd7-b8e0-95d156d8400c"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/seagrass-foldable-box-1000187531?defaultSkuId=30733541" data-model-name="Seagrass Foldable Box" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/whUJFMg73Q8JNXimb89rrN.jpg' alt="Seagrass Foldable Box"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Seagrass Foldable Box</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A seagrass foldable box is a simple and stylish way to keep clutter in check. It’s lightweight, tactile and easy to tuck onto a shelf or slide neatly out of sight.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="14b87ced-8df9-4693-9a34-e66ee7c30f74"> <a href="https://www.habitat.co.uk/product/7888933?clickPR=plp:3:40" data-model-name="Habitat Pack of 2 Seagrass Wave Storage Basket " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/MKJeMRwVkM2DGoM5An8hng.jpg' alt="Habitat Pack of 2 Seagrass Wave Storage Basket - Natural"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Habitat Pack of 2 Seagrass Wave Storage Basket </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Featuring a scalloped style top, these 2 storage baskets have a natural aesthetic with a designer edge – perfect for modern interiors.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-10-create-a-reading-or-work-nook"><span>10. Create a reading or work nook</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="x6SnTpyS95LagVz3wkNdF" name="lighting a home office_Industville, Brooklyn Glass Dome Pendant - 12 Inch, £149, Brooklyn Glass Funnel Wall Light, £109, Pillar Geometric Cylinger Table Lamp £125" alt="home office in alcove with pendant light, table light and wall light" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/x6SnTpyS95LagVz3wkNdF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Giving your landing more than one purpose – such as doubling it up as a home office – helps shape the kind of storage you’ll need to keep the space calm and functional.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Industville)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A generous landing can do far more than host shelves and cupboards. Whether it’s a built-in reading corner or a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/home-office-on-landing-ideas">landing home office</a>, transforming ‘dead’ space into something purposeful makes the room work harder.</p><p>“Landings are often left as an afterthought, but you can really bring them to life,” explains Mike Biddulph, founder of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://goldfinchfurniture.co.uk/about/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Goldfinch Furniture</a>. “Even a small space can fit a foldaway desk or a reading nook – it’s about making use of every inch without blocking the walkway. A 750mm-high run of bookcase gives you extra display space and a surface for houseplants too. It only has to be 200mm deep to be useful.”</p><p>Some landings, often those at the top of an extension staircase, are large enough to accommodate a full desk and workstation. Working with sloping ceilings or uneven walls can be fiddly, so it’s worth investing in something custom-made to fit perfectly. “During the design process, think carefully about how tidy you are at the end of a workday,” Mike advises. “Make sure everything can be cleared away quickly and without too much fuss.”</p><p>For smaller spaces, a foldaway desk can be an excellent solution. “Off-the-shelf versions exist, but they can sometimes feel a little bouncy,” Mike adds. “If possible, try before you buy and plan where your paperwork and cables will live when the desk is folded away – a matching storage unit can help keep things neat.”</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="43ed54a8-8cf8-4419-a788-d487fd81c720"> <a href="https://www.cotswoldco.com/home-office-furniture/desks/chester-dove-grey-hidden-workstation/?xcm_campaign=Shoppin-Smart-Office&cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=17737287059&cq_con=&cq_term=&cq_med=pla&cq_plac=&cq_net=x&cq_plt=gp" data-model-name="Chester Dove Grey Hideaway Home Office" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yAgzF3PkzS8yvm6t44iSvV.jpg' alt="Chester Dove Grey Hideaway Home Office"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Chester Dove Grey Hideaway Home Office</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This versatile piece features two adjustable shelves, door-mounted storage, and a sliding desk surface, with additional storage below — including a pull-out tray designed to keep your printer neatly tucked away.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-tips-and-considerations-when-adding-landing-storage"><span>Tips and considerations when adding landing storage</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="WWE6BzmR6svBnsJ5wn7XNH" name="glam-it-up-luxxu" alt="landing with glass and mirrored wall lights and herringbone wood floor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WWE6BzmR6svBnsJ5wn7XNH.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Coordinating colours, finishes and materials helps your landing storage feel like a natural extension of the home. </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Luxxu)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Every landing comes with its own challenges, from awkward layouts to limited light, so it’s worth planning carefully before you add any storage.</p><p>“With landings, safety and flow are important, so always try to maintain at least 80–90cm of clear passage to avoid creating trip hazards,” advises Rob Symon, storage expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.readysteadystore.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Ready Steady Store</a>. “I recommend using vertical space for storage rather than bulky floor units, and choose light-reflecting finishes to keep the area bright and airy.”</p><p>“Aim to keep the storage cohesive with the rest of your home design,” adds Jonathan Clark, creative director at Shelved. “Select finishes, colours and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/landing-lighting-ideas">landing lighting </a>that complement adjoining rooms, or coordinate with the flooring and bannister. By putting in a little effort with the décor, you’ll transform your landing into a space that feels integral to your home, not just a functional space you rush through.”</p><p>Short on storage space downstairs? These <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/boot-room-storage">boot room storage ideas</a> keep everyday life running smoothly – from built-in benches that hide muddy boots to overhead shelving and baskets that make even the busiest spaces feel calm and organised.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/hallway/landing-storage-ideas</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Discover how to transform wasted space into a hardworking feature with these creative landing storage ideas for every home ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">EiSe89J9jb6K2JhacFWDmg</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/C6UjNpkypRB62aeWgYEAF8-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Hallway]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Gabriella Dyson ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/C6UjNpkypRB62aeWgYEAF8-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Sharps]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A beautifully styled landing features a built-in shelving unit painted in a warm neutral shade. The upper shelves are neatly arranged with books, ceramics, framed photos, and a leafy plant, creating a balanced yet homely look.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A beautifully styled landing features a built-in shelving unit painted in a warm neutral shade. The upper shelves are neatly arranged with books, ceramics, framed photos, and a leafy plant, creating a balanced yet homely look.]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/C6UjNpkypRB62aeWgYEAF8-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Step inside this beautifully refurbished 1930s London home, where a ‘striking’ kitchen ceiling steals the show ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Despite being in the market for a new home, David and Magali weren’t impressed with the Art Deco house they saw for sale just a few streets away from their own home in Forest Hill, south London. "We’d discounted the house in question completely based on how it looked from the outside," he says. "We thought we’d probably just buy a bigger version of the Victorian property we were currently living in."</p><p>It was only when the couple went to have a closer look that they decided there were positives in buying the property. "Our own house had practically no garden whereas this place had a big garden, and that changed my mind completely," says David. "We also realised that there was a lot we could do with the internal layout."</p><p>The couple and their two children moved straight in when they bought the house in March 2021. "We hadn’t initially decided what we wanted to do apart from knowing we wanted a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/kitchen-extension">kitchen extension</a>," says David.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-project-details"><span>Project details</span></h3><ul><li><strong>Location</strong> Forest Hill, south London</li><li><strong>House type</strong> 1930s semi-detached</li><li><strong>Build time </strong>Eight months</li><li><strong>Build cost </strong>Approx £500,000</li></ul><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="E2jpmvWfwDX7NuZg8f3rpS" name="HBR226.rp_sunderland_road.sunderland_rd117" alt="Exterior view of the back of the house, with the lawn in shot" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/E2jpmvWfwDX7NuZg8f3rpS.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Katherine Malonda)</span></figcaption></figure><h4 class="slide-title">After</h4><p class="slide-description"><em>The brick-clad rear extension features an asymmetrical pitched roof</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="2A26HwVfsqBUwEVhHqUKn" name="HBR226.rp_sunderland_road.img_2272_1" alt="Exterior view of the back of the house - before the renovations took place" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2A26HwVfsqBUwEVhHqUKn.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: David and Magali)</span></figcaption></figure><h4 class="slide-title">Before</h4><p class="slide-description"><em>A conservatory was taken away and a brick lean-to was removed</em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-formulating-plans"><span>Formulating plans</span></h3><p>Word of mouth led the couple to local architect, Hugo McCloud from 1200 Works. "I felt that he listened and was very flexible," says David. "He didn’t talk about controlling the whole process, unlike some architects we had spoken to – we went in with a fairly blank slate and in a way he read our minds."</p><p>The couple had never taken on a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/self-build">self-build</a> project on this scale before and had never worked with an architect before. "We gave him our wish list and he knew our limitations, and what he came up with was a vision that was something that really made us happy," says David.</p><p>The final design featured a contemporary pitched rear extension featuring a new kitchen dining area with a hip-to-gable attic conversion that included an additional bedroom, bathroom and office.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="A24rYnwkKo8EKMTaayeQzm" name="HBR226.rp_sunderland_road.sunderland_rd055" alt="Wide shot of the dining area to the right and kitchen island to the left" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/A24rYnwkKo8EKMTaayeQzm.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>"The vaulted ceiling with its exposed beams makes a striking feature"</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Katherine Malonda)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-raising-funds"><span>Raising funds</span></h3><p>One vital element in the process was finding ways of financing the project and to release funds the couple sold a one-bedroom rental flat they owned, as well as the three-bedroom property they were living in nearby. "We then had to wait for all that to clear before going ahead," says David.</p><p>Full <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/planning-permission">planning permission</a> was required and luckily this proved to be straightforward. There were many build precedents in the area, where renovations, extensions and attic conversions had taken place using similar contemporary forms and materials, so this strengthened the case.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-rough-living"><span>Rough living</span></h3><p>Work began in June 2022 and although the family opted to remain living in the house throughout the renovation, they did have to move out the following August while the old kitchen was demolished.</p><p>"When we moved back in, we had a working kitchen in the garage," says David. "We lived through the whole winter cooking in the garage as we had no heating and we spent the next six months doing this.</p><p>"To keep warm we bought three <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/best-space-heater">space heaters</a> – one in the kids’ bedroom, one in our bedroom and one in the room we had installed a temporary shower in. Controlling the dust was another constant battle – the contractors put hazmat covers over the doorways as dust was constantly in the air. We had to duct tape them up whenever they fell off the doorways."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="koPNp7FJdDoCx2FEgCQyhK" name="HBR226.rp_sunderland_road.sunderland_rd029" alt="Inside the kitchen, featuring a breakfast bar island and high vaulted ceilings, with a dog in the shot" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/koPNp7FJdDoCx2FEgCQyhK.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>"We chose Dekton worktops as we think this is more impermeable and more robust"</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Katherine Malonda)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-complete-overhaul"><span>Complete overhaul</span></h3><p>The main works involved the removal of a conservatory and a brick lean-to at the rear of the house, with the back wall partially demolished, propped up and a steel frame to the frontage inserted. The new blockwork and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/brick-extension-ideas">brick-clad extension</a> was built onto this, five metres out into a new patio area and garden beyond. The white-facing brick also forms the main wall of the new kitchen and dining extension.</p><p>As well as the addition of a rear extension and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/loft-conversion-beginners-guide">loft conversion</a>, the house was fully refurbished, which included installing <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/underfloor-heating-guide">underfloor heating</a> and laying new <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/how-to-choose-engineered-wood-flooring">engineered oak flooring</a>. The first-floor renovation involved reconfiguring one of the two bedrooms to create a bigger room and a new bathroom was also installed.</p><p>The new loft conversion features a bedroom with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/walk-in-wardrobe-ideas">walk-in wardrobe</a>, shower room and study. "In the loft we created an office with a really cool corner window," says David. "It’s not openable, which has worked out great as this meant we could have a thinner frame and more streamlined window casement. We have a cantilever over it to support the roof so that the glass doesn’t take any weight. We really like these details."</p><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="M9z749HwvhtCocyLFDkSRh" name="HBR226.rp_sunderland_road.sunderland_rd128" alt="Inside the study" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/M9z749HwvhtCocyLFDkSRh.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Katherine Malonda)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>In the attic office, a cantilever over the uniquely shaped corner window supports the roof</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="vCsnhyEkzfnW6rrxvBiYZ6" name="HBR226.rp_sunderland_road.sunderland_rd143" alt="Inside the shower room extension, featuring a walk-in shower" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vCsnhyEkzfnW6rrxvBiYZ6.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Katherine Malonda)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The shower room in the attic utilises the angled space to good effect</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="yWjMVoaYb3EoYETo5jcLcH" name="HBR226.rp_sunderland_road.sunderland_rd137" alt="Inside the bedroom, featuring a large black frame window and matching radiator" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yWjMVoaYb3EoYETo5jcLcH.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Katherine Malonda)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>A black-framed window draws the eye to views of the garden </em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-high-performance"><span>High performance</span></h3><p>Since moving back in, the family can’t believe the difference between the old and new house.</p><p>"The house is performing so much better in terms of energy efficiency," says David. "The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/insulation">insulation</a> throughout has been upgraded, as have all the windows in the new extension and loft, which are now double glazed. The new wet underfloor heating system across the whole ground floor includes zoning to allow different areas to be heated.</p><p>"It’s also a great summer house – we love our big kitchen and connection to the garden," says David, who grew up in Texas and likes to cook outdoors. "I really love details such as the horizontal slot window behind the sink and the whole back line of the house with its large sliding doors opening directly onto the garden."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="3EA8GNxcpvaB9egeTU8XrF" name="sunderland_road.sunderland_rd075" alt="kitchen extension with a vaulted ceiling, exposed timber trusses, a white kitchen and large kitchen island" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3EA8GNxcpvaB9egeTU8XrF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The extension has created a much-improved link with the rear garden</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Katherine Malonda)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-spotlight-on-creating-an-exposed-timber-ceiling"><span>Spotlight on creating an exposed timber ceiling</span></h3><p>Lance Wilson, chief executive officer, Corinth Contractors says, "The client wanted an exposed natural timber joist ceiling so to achieve the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/vaulted-ceilings-design-ideas">vaulted [ceiling</a>] look we had to take measures to hide the cables and fixtures.</p><p>"We ran the cable as normal between the joists, installed battens along the timbers and then put plywood boarding in between the joists to hide the cables, brackets and bolts. The lights just pop out. To meet building control, the exposed timber ceiling had to be sealed with a fire-retardant varnish. We applied a clear varnish as the clients wanted the effect of the raw wood.</p><p>"The exposed steelwork also had to be painted with intumescent paint to make it fire resistant. The steelwork was made to order and the design stated that it shouldn’t look heavy. We had to be smart to keep the steel light yet able to take a lot of load."</p><p>Homeowner David says: "There is a gap around the plywood boarding in the ceiling and that is intentional. Wood isn’t perfectly straight so it’s difficult to make it perfectly line up. But if you leave a one-centimetre gap then the eye will never catch it, and it makes the lines around the plywood perfectly straight. The architect brought in these elements into the design and showed a great attention to detail."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="L4Pbax2BPiPeCSs3qBBWn6" name="HBR226.rp_sunderland_road.82481c13_b47f_4d07_8675_98adfb74b5f3_1" alt="The kitchen being installed" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/L4Pbax2BPiPeCSs3qBBWn6.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The project took eight months to complete</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: David and Magali)</span></figcaption></figure><p>David concludes, "All in all, it’s a great house to live in."</p><p>For more self-build inspiration, discover how one couple transformed a tiny bungalow into a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/house-tours/three-storey-modern-self-build-in-cornwall">modern three-storey house</a> on Cornwall’s coastline. Or step inside this gorgeous <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/house-tours/herefordshire-oak-frame-new-build">oak-frame home</a> in Ross-on-Wye, which the owners have future-proofed as their forever home.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/house-tours/extended-1930s-london-house-with-vaulted-kitchen-ceiling</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ After buying a house they had initially written off, David and Magali set about adding a contemporary space to form a stunning family home ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">pNYmR1habDrv3voxdKg4Yw</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KfXNH5fBnf3asN6KVKHJwj-1280-80.png" type="image/png" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[House Tours]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Caroline Ednie ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KfXNH5fBnf3asN6KVKHJwj-1280-80.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Katherine Malonda]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Exterior of the house from the back garden]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Exterior of the house from the back garden]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KfXNH5fBnf3asN6KVKHJwj-1280-80.png" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Designing with neurodiversity in mind – 6 key principles to creating an inclusive living space drawn from first hand experience and expert advice ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>"Mum it's too noisy. Mum it's too bright. Mum I didn't want that colour. Mum it's itchy. Mum I can't find it." These are all daily refrains that have peppered my home life for as long as I can remember.</p><p>Once I knew the cause, understanding the complaints and preventing them became far easier. But if designing a home with neurodiversity in mind is new to you, it may feel like an insurmountable challenge – particularly when neurodiversity covers a wide range of different conditions. It means that what works for someone with ADHD for example, might not work for someone with autism.</p><p>So how do you create a happy, calming and practical <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/self-build">self build</a> or successfully renovate when everyone's needs differ? Based on my own personal experiences, and the advice of experts, here are some top tips for designing a home with neurodiversity in mind.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-understanding-neurodiversity-and-home-design"><span>Understanding neurodiversity and home design</span></h3><p>Although awareness of the need to consider neurodiversity in design is far greater than ever before, it wasn't until 2022 that British Standards guidelines were put in place in the form of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/standards/pas-6463/">PAS 6463:2022 </a><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/standards/pas-6463/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Design for the mind – Neurodiversity and the built environment</a>. The guidelines within apply both to buildings and external spaces for public and commercial use, and to residential accommodation for independent or supported living. While they don't directly include reference to private individual homes, some of the advice in there is of course still relevant.</p><p>The reasons for needing such standards? Navigating the built environment is a far different experience for someone with neurodiversity.</p><p>Neurodiversity can cover, but isn't limited to ADHD, autism, dyspraxia and dyslexia. But, there isn't, and will never be a "one size fits" all solution.</p><p>"Probably the most important is to explain when designing with neurodiversity in mind is that that no two neurodiverse people are the same," confirms Gillian Scampton, director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.pedderscampton.com/" target="_blank">Pedder & Scampton Architects Ltd</a>.</p><p>"They will have many different and often conflicting issues and concerns and levels of need. For example, some autistic people hate loud noises and some love them, and some love showers and hate baths and vice versa. So ideally any project for a home for a neurodiverse person will start with gathering information about the individual’s needs."</p><p>I know personally from living with my sons that the simplest things can be triggers, and what one can tolerate, the other can't. Getting the balance right can be tricky.</p><p>"Looking at autistic individuals, home is more than just a place to live," adds Christine Flintoft-Smith, head of autism accreditation and projects at the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.autism.org.uk/" target="_blank">National Autistic Society</a>.</p><p>"It’s a sanctuary where they can decompress, regulate, and process their experiences of the outside world. Just as every home is unique, so too are autistic people, each with their own distinct needs and preferences. That’s why the cornerstone of inclusive home design must be collaboration with autistic individuals and their families.</p><p>But, while every design should be tailored to the person it serves, there are overarching principles that can guide these conversations and inform thoughtful, neurodiverse-friendly environments," says Christine.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="9wKJ2b2gK34qHYRkoppsjU" name="neurodiversity_GettyImages-1195432204" alt="male and female stood in freestanding bath with shower curtain behind them" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/9wKJ2b2gK34qHYRkoppsjU.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>No two needs will be the same, but there are some basic principles to apply that will make it possible to design a home for everyone</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Westend61/Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-accomodating-sensory-differences"><span>1. Accomodating sensory differences</span></h3><p>Hate bright overhead lights? While my sons will think nothing of putting all the lights on in the main living areas, head to their bedrooms and you'll never find a ceiling light on. Both have had on and off relationships with colour changing LED lights (great for a dopamine hit), but in general, there's a small bedside light and that suffices for them.</p><p>So why does lighting impact neurodiverse personalities so much?</p><p>"Many autistic people, for example, experience heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory input," explains Christine Flintoft-Smith.</p><p>"Design should aim to minimise sensory overload while offering safe opportunities for sensory exploration", says Christine, citing lighting, sound and smell as three areas where you will need to explore your options.</p><p>She suggests the following:</p><ul><li><strong>Lighting: </strong>Prioritise <a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-get-more-natural-light-in-a-room">natural light</a> and avoid harsh fluorescent bulbs. <a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/can-i-install-a-dimmer-on-any-type-of-light">Dimmer switches </a>and adjustable lighting allow individuals to manage brightness according to their needs.</li><li><strong>Sound:</strong> Use soft furnishings like carpets and curtains, acoustic panels, and quiet appliances to reduce ambient noise.</li><li><strong>Smell:</strong> Choose low-odour paints and materials, as some individuals may detect lingering scents long after others no longer notice them.</li></ul><p>Gillian Scampton expands on sensory impact, explaining how avoiding ceiling mounted <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-many-downlights-do-i-need">downlights </a>is a good option too.</p><p>"Make as much of the lighting as possible concealed," she suggests, "build it into joinery and put it all on well specified dimmers to avoid any buzzing or flickering. Many neurodiverse people like extremely low light levels, a few the opposite.</p><p>"Another suggestion is to include blackout blinds when choosing window coverings," she adds, "so the sun and natural light can also be controlled."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="Xpwe8CuqYz8PuVgwdy7MeT" name="neurodiversity_lighting_pedder & scampton" alt="pale grey built in storage with concealed lighting above and below" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Xpwe8CuqYz8PuVgwdy7MeT.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Pedder & Scampton Architects Ltd designed built-in storage with concealed lighting for a neurodiverse client</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Pedder & Scampton Architects Ltd)</span></figcaption></figure><p>My personal recommendation? Head to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.quietmark.com/eu" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">QuietMark</a> and purchase items that have been recognised as having this standard.</p><p>At 20 years old my son still can't tolerate the sound of the hoover or steam iron, and when the dishwasher beeps to say it's finished, the three series of beeps has made him leave the room on more than one occasion.</p><p>"Avoid noisy appliances in the kitchen such as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-kitchen-extractor-fan">extractor fans</a>," confirms Gillian. "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/soundproofing-a-ceiling">Sound proofing </a>should also be good enough that you don’t hear noises from above or next door. Someone else’s washing machine going will be more distressing than your own.</p><p>"Really good <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/ventilation">ventilation</a> and air quality generally is also something worth considering," adds Gillian. "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/mvhr-the-beginners-guide">MVHR</a> is great as neurodiverse people can be very sensitive to smells – for example scented cleaning products."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="AJs93h7gqwuAs3WdTiH3Bg" name="neurodiversity_Miele Boost CX1 Bagless Cylinder Vacuum Cleaner" alt="vaccuum on floor in open plan living room and dining room" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AJs93h7gqwuAs3WdTiH3Bg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Choosing low-volume appliances will help with sensory issues</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Quiet Mark/Miele)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="texture-and-surface-finishes-may-need-consideration-too-2">Texture and surface finishes may need consideration too</h2><p>As well as lighting, sound and smell, I'd also say it's also important to consider texture and surface finishes when designing with neurodiversity in mind. I could never understand why my eldest son hated clean bedding day. I'd never known anyone not enjoy the feeling of getting into a freshly laundered bed, until my son arrived on the scene.</p><p>They may well have been the same sheet, duvet cover and pillowcase he'd slept in the week before, but once they had that newly washed and ironed feel, it was game over. A sleepless night would ensue until he'd wriggled around in them enough to make them feel more like home.</p><p>Certain blankets, throws, cushions have all been subject to rejection too, along with flooring that doesn't feel right to walk on, carpets that are too itchy, sofas that are scratchy, plates that make too much noise when you use a knife to cut food.... you get the idea.</p><p>My youngest will currently only sleep with a duvet cover that feels like the muslin cloths he had as a child. My eldest insists on silk pillowcases and carries them even when travelling. It may sound privileged to some, but for them it's regulating sensory overload.</p><h2 id="shop-for-quiet-appliances-2">Shop for quiet appliances</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ed710dee-84ca-4faf-a7b8-476f6bcc1cea"> <a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/bosch-series-4-wan28258gb-freestanding-washing-machine-8kg-load-1400rpm-spin-white/p111920950?" data-model-name="Bosch Series 4 Wan28258gb Freestanding Washing Machine" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:133.33%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rLbzgnaqqogqpD3DTgjXua.webp' alt="Bosch Series 4 Wan28258gb Freestanding Washing Machine, 8kg Load, 1400rpm Spin, White"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Washing Machine</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Bosch Series 4 Wan28258gb Freestanding Washing Machine</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Bosch’s EcoSilence Drive™ is so quiet that sometimes you might forget it's even on. The brushless, energy-efficient motor is quiet in operation, has an especially long life and comes with a 10-year parts warranty.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="f8c2da9c-e552-4422-9c89-3528ba94ae32"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Airflow-QT100B-9041259-Version-Extractor/dp/B00BATAJUQ/ref=asc_df_B00BATAJUQ?th=1" data-model-name="Airflow Qt100b Extractor Fan Basic" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:92.40%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/L7682ReuTUXx8dW6MeyX7o.jpg' alt="Airflow Qt100b Extractor Fan Basic – 100mm/4" Duct - German Made, 2 Speed Operation, Ultra Quiet 25 Db(a), Energy Efficient 5/9w, Upto 25 L/s, Quietmark Certified, 3-Year Warranty"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Bathroom extractor</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Airflow Qt100b Extractor Fan Basic</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>The fan operates at an exceptionally low noise level of 25 dB(A), ensuring a tranquil environment while maintaining effective ventilation.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="2b9db50d-0f82-45a7-b325-57de82c7b989"> <a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/miele-boost-cx1-vacuum-cleaner/p5980079?" data-model-name="Miele Boost Cx1 Vacuum Cleaner" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:133.33%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KZCGGDshVqja9ajdMSJAdF.webp' alt="Miele Boost Cx1 Vacuum Cleaner"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Vacuum Cleaner</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Miele Boost Cx1 Vacuum Cleaner</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Quiet Mark certified, this household vacuum has a small footprint and a Hygiene AirClean Filter for high dust retention.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-understanding-the-impact-of-colour"><span>2. Understanding the impact of colour</span></h3><p>If lighting, sound and smell impact the senses, then it's not surprising that colours do too. While younger children with ADHD may find bright primary colours good for stimulation in a playroom, keeping the colours more muted in a bedroom can aid sleep and prevent over stimulation.</p><p>As a parent, it can feel like there's a constant battle between evoking apathy and action – too little dopamine and they can be rendered inactive, too much and the hyper focus can quickly turn into lack of focus. So, how do you choose a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/best-bedroom-colours">bedroom colour</a> scheme for a child with neurodiverse needs?</p><p>"A good plan for a bedroom for a neurodiverse child is to paint it white and start with nothing in it apart from a bed," says Gillian Scampton, "and then just add in the possessions and colours that they say they want, nothing more. Visual clutter, strong patterns, exposed pipework, shadows can all be difficult," she adds.</p><p>Something I eventually learnt from experience, having tried colours and patterns in my son's bedroom, but ending up having to accept that white, grey and black are far more suited to a sleep-inducing environment.</p><p>"Colours are really individual but white, soft grey and green tend to be better than reds and yellows," adds Gillian, although as it's already been made clear, there isn't a set rule book that suits all. Some individuals will like areas of strong colour.</p><p>On the whole though, "opt for neutral tones to reduce visual overstimulation and create a calming atmosphere," says Christine Flintoft-Smith.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="AfJENPebX99ZhnLE3nTEMn" name="neurodiversity_Moro Sleepstation with Chest of DrawersCabinet & Desk in Classic White" alt="child's bedroom with cabin bed and desk, white floor, pale rug, blinds at window" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AfJENPebX99ZhnLE3nTEMn.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A white bedroom with only the items a child wants is a good starting point when designing a new space</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Noa & Nani)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-spatial-planning-and-location"><span>3. Spatial planning and location</span></h3><p>Although everyone is keen for the flow throughout their home to feel comfortable and work well, it's even more important when designing with neurodiversity in mind say both our experts.</p><p>Movement is important when designing with autism in the mix, says Christine Flintoft-Smith. "Incorporate open spaces and wider passageways to support self-regulation through movement. Outdoor areas can also provide valuable space for physical activity," she suggests. "Colour-coded zones can also help visually distinguish rooms and reinforce their purpose, aiding orientation and routine.</p><p>"And, don't forget to account for physical support needs and ensure adequate space for mobility aids or specialised furniture," notes Christine.</p><p>"‘Liminal’ or non specific spaces are also helpful," adds Gillian Scampton. "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/porch-vs-veranda">Porches with somewhere to sit</a> when going in or out, generous hallways and corridors can all soften the transitions between one space and another.</p><p>"Curves are appreciated and layouts should be direct not convoluted," she advises. It can also mean open-plan layouts are not always suitable when designing a self-build. A <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/broken-plan">broken-plan layout</a> may be more suitable instead.</p><p>"Often autistic people associate a room with a specific use – a kitchen is for cooking, a living room is for relaxation etc," she explains, "so separate rooms rather than open-plan layouts are good. A kitchen in a separate room also means that the smells and sounds of cooking can be contained, which can help avoid sensory issues.</p><p>"Also think about where you put rooms that generate noise," continues Gillian. "Try to avoid having, say, a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/utility-rooms">utility room</a> with a washing machine and tumbler drier next to a bedroom or living room – low hums and rumbles can be really distressing."</p><p>And, while entering and leaving may seem relatively simple, it's actually important to about the route to the front door says Gillian. For example, when designing apartments for neurodiverse residents, she will ensure there is enough space and good sight lines to avoid unexpected encounters, and also avoid placing doors opposite each other.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="Uz3bwKpvBJuPByTLXjE5Ff" name="case study surtees Novum-House-Surtees-075" alt="a parquet flooring in a hallway with view up a new staircase to a first floor extension on a bungalow" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Uz3bwKpvBJuPByTLXjE5Ff.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Wide hallways and corridors are beneficial when dealing with spatial awareness</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-safety-and-security"><span>4. Safety and security</span></h3><p>When thinking about safety and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-home-security-systems">home security</a>, there are some areas where extra precautions can be beneficial, and likewise those where simple tweaks can make enough of a difference.</p><p>In my case, we all struggle at home with what we refer to as clumsiness, but is more a case of struggling with spatial awareness. The result? If there's a sharp edge or corner it's accepted one of us will bump into it. Something that's not uncommon says Christine Flintoft-Smith who advises, "choosing rounded-edge furniture to reduce injury risks for those with spatial awareness challenges."</p><p>However, depending on the scale of the individual needs, Christine says it can also be worth thinking of other areas in the home where safety could be improved.</p><p>"Safety is paramount, particularly for individuals with limited awareness of danger. Collaboration with families and carers is essential to identify specific risks," she confirms, citing the following as areas where extra attention to detail can be beneficial:</p><ul><li>Install <a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/window-security">secure locking systems on doors and windows</a></li><li>Use non-toxic materials and safe outdoor plants to prevent health issues from accidental ingestion</li><li>Consider isolator taps or stop valves to manage water access for individuals who seek sensory input through water play</li><li>Use intuitive switches, taps, and handles with the advantage that voice-activated technologies can also offer additional autonomy to an individual</li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-storage-and-organisation"><span>5. Storage and organisation</span></h3><p>Based on my experiences of ADHD, this is one area in the home I've never quite managed to master with my sons. Differences in executive functioning can make keeping items stored in the right places tricky, and I've tried numerous ways to keep bedrooms tidy, and items where they can be easily found.</p><p>Unfortunately, the hours wasted to finding 'lost' items is too many to mention, and I'm still navigating my way around getting the right storage systems in place.</p><p>But, if you're keen to explore what can work, there are some basic guidelines that will certainly help say our experts.</p><p>"Start by ensuring storage is accessible, clearly labelled, or transparent so contents are easily identifiable," suggests Christine.</p><p>"Lots of storage in cupboards is ideal," adds Gillian. "This reduces visual clutter and allows rooms to be used more flexibly, as items associated with one activity can be put away when something else is going on.</p><p>"In general storage is generally better behind doors, unless it's something to do with a specific interest that a particular resident has," she notes.</p><p>I'd also add labelling drawers, boxes and cupboards can all help for neurodiverse children. This doesn't always have to be with words. Pictures of a car on a box containing only toy cars for example is one way of targeting <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/storage-in-childrens-rooms">storage in a children's room</a>.</p><p>Open wardrobes with items stored by type can also work, as can grouping by colour. Also keeping storage low down so the items are easily visible can help. Out of sight out of mind is without doubt a phrase that resonates with ADHD in my home. If you can't see it, it's easily forgotten, leading either to another payment to ADHD tax (unnecessary spending on duplicate items that are deemed lost), or a rise in stress levels as the hunt for it ensues.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="No5nPMUTMSX728QRvjDwAo" name="neurodiversity_ORTHEX SmartStore Compact Clear From £2.08 Bathroom Laundry www.johnlewis.com" alt="bathroom shelves with clear storage containers" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/No5nPMUTMSX728QRvjDwAo.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Clear storage containers will help when trying to keep organised </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Orthex)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-a-space-to-unwind-and-unmask"><span>6. A space to unwind and unmask</span></h3><p>Although home can feel like a sanctuary for many, a private space within the home is an extra addition that serves a neurodiverse individual well. Or, even a room that's considered their own will be beneficial.</p><p>"Many neurodiverse people will come home feeling very distressed from the effort of coping with all the stimuli of the outside world, people at work," explains Gillian. "Something like a busy railway station or an airport comes up most often as the most difficult place to be when we talk to our focus groups. They therefore need a retreat space, somewhere in their home where they can reset," she expands.</p><p>"It needs to be calm, clear, quiet, uncluttered, familiar, private, not too hot, sunny or cold," says Gillian. "This could be a bedroom, or a dedicated living space where they can shut the world out.</p><p>"But make sure you think about privacy. Often views out are welcomed, particularly views of nature, but being overlooked is uncomfortable," she adds.</p><p>"A quiet, low-stimulation retreat space can be invaluable," agrees Christine. "While a dedicated room may not always be feasible, alternatives like a calming nook, a designated corner, or a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/garden-room-ideas">garden room</a> hideaway can serve the same purpose."</p><p>The final advice for designing with neurodiversity in mind?</p><p>"The most effective autism-friendly homes are those designed in partnership with the people who will live in them," says Christine Flintoft-Smith. "Listening to autistic individuals and their families – understanding what has worked and what hasn’t can shape environments that truly support wellbeing and independence."</p><p>It all needs to start early on in the process too, says Gillian. She recommends, "when <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/finding-a-plot">choosing a plot</a> or a property to buy consider the context, noise, air quality and views. Try and find somewhere that is generously sized for your needs so the neurodiverse resident has plenty of space. If no garden then a park or green space nearby, will be beneficial."</p><p>Finding the right design team is crucial too. "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-choose-an-architect">Find an architect,</a> with experience in the field, that you get on with," says Gillian. "Write down a list of things that the neurodiverse person (and their family) find most difficult and most helpful. Find out what are specific interests that need to be accommodated."</p><p>Transitions – especially moving to a new home – can be a source of anxiety," adds Christine, "so supporting predictability helps ease this process. Share photos, videos, or arrange site visits where appropriate."</p><p>And finally, don't forget to think ahead. "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/lifetime-homes">Future-proofing design</a> choices can empower individuals as they transition into adulthood," notes Christine. "Needs evolve over time, so flexibility is key. Multi-use rooms and modular furniture for example will allow families to adapt their space as circumstances change."</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/self-build/designing-with-neurodiversity-in-mind</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Designing with neurodiversity in the mix doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. We explore the main areas where design tweaks and inside knowledge help create a home that works for everyone ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">y2GqtFDHd2q9SFvKY7in65</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YtMKSchmcDkFx3kRSaDzTZ-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Self Build]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ sarah.harley@futurenet.com (Sarah Harley) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Sarah Harley ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YtMKSchmcDkFx3kRSaDzTZ-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Svetlana Repnitskaya/Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[table with colour samples, design drawings and calculator]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[table with colour samples, design drawings and calculator]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YtMKSchmcDkFx3kRSaDzTZ-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Harry Redknapp becomes face of this eco DIY product after being shocked by waste during home renovation ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Former footballer and manager Harry Redknapp has become the face of a new eco-friendly DIY product after being shocked by the amount of plastic waste created during his own <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/renovating-a-house-complete-guide">home renovation</a>.</p><p>Redknapp is lending his support to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.diy.com/departments/unibond-white-silicone-based-bathroom-kitchen-sanitary-sealant-300ml/1474132_BQ.prd?storeId=1047&&&&&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21066669303&gbraid=0AAAAADt-XHks7CIxYgyF_SoPt4J_7KBLV&gclid=CjwKCAjwgeLHBhBuEiwAL5gNEWt-Cg0UmuOThh62K7NwBaepvXA6UUGkwfaBGASxN6GS1vFPFFykGxoCeSgQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">UniBond’s <em>Next Generation Sealant Cartridge</em></a> - a recyclable, part-cardboard alternative that the company says can reduce plastic waste by 51% and CO₂ emissions from home projects.</p><p>The product forms part of UniBond’s drive to make everyday DIY more sustainable across UK households.</p><h2 id="i-had-no-idea-how-much-waste-these-simple-products-create-2">‘I had no idea how much waste these simple products create’ </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:596px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:90.60%;"><img id="VqBPAQXfVXmksbJfqrEcF4" name="Screenshot 2023-08-25 155846.jpg" alt="An overhead shot of Harry Redknapp's home on the beach with a large back garden" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VqBPAQXfVXmksbJfqrEcF4.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="596" height="540" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em></em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/harry-redknapp-in-planning-battle-with-council-over-his-sandbanks-mansion"><em>Harry Redknapp won a planning battle to renovate his Sandbanks mansion</em></a><em></em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Google Earth)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Redknapp said his involvement came after seeing first-hand how much waste his own renovation produced.</p><p>“I’ll be honest, I had no idea the amount of plastic waste that came from those old sealant cartridges,” Redknapp said. “I’m going through my own home renovation now and it’s definitely made me think. It’s great to see more sustainable products like this available - what a game-changing impact there would be if more people made the switch.”</p><p>Traditional sealant cartridges are typically made of single-use plastic that becomes contaminated with residue and ends up in landfill.</p><h2 id="innovation-behind-the-next-generation-cartridge-2">Innovation behind the next generation cartridge </h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="6d6ee522-9bea-487e-b6fa-41b54a89388b"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/2493986-Protection-Anti-Mould-Cartridge-Translucent/dp/B07Q4Q7P3T/ref=asc_df_B07Q4Q7P3T?mcid=b144a8a023ae3315ad3d1c3c7bb40199&th=1&psc=1&hvocijid=16401688736579122449-B07Q4Q7P3T-&hvexpln=74&tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=696285193871&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16401688736579122449&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9192312&hvtargid=pla-2281435177378&psc=1&gad_source=1" data-model-name="Unibond Triple Protection Silicone Sealant" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:150%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Z3EJcXKSPLJgjpJHdr6BJE.jpg' alt="Unibond Triple Protection Stop Mould Silicone Sealant for Kitchens and Bathrooms, Clear, Repels, Kills and Prevents Mould Growth, Long-Lasting Shower Sealant, 1 X 291 G Cartridge"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Unibond Triple Protection Silicone Sealant</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Unibond Triple Protection Silicone Sealant for Kitchens and Bathrooms, Clear, Repels, Kills and Prevents Mould Growth, Long-Lasting Shower Sealant, 1 X 291 G Cartridge</p></p> </div> </div> </div><p>According to UniBond, the <em>Next Generation Cartridge</em> is made from recycled cardboard, while the plastic cap, nozzle, and piston contain at least 49% recycled material.</p><p>The company says the design produces 73% less overall waste compared to previous cartridges.</p><p>Eve Kolesova, Head of Marketing at UniBond UK & Ireland, said: “Sealant cartridges are often overlooked as a contributor to construction waste. Our goal with the Next Generation of Cartridges is to provide a solution that performs exceptionally while significantly reducing environmental impact.”</p><h2 id="greener-homes-bigger-impact-2">Greener homes, bigger impact </h2><p>UniBond’s data suggests that around 13 million cartridges will be used by homeowners undertaking renovations over the next two years, from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-bathroom-sealant">resealing bathrooms</a> and kitchens to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-insulate-a-loft">insulating lofts</a> and windows.</p><p>The company estimates that if all those projects used the Next Generation Cartridge, it could save the equivalent of 76 million plastic bags and nearly 2,000 tonnes of CO₂, roughly equal to one person travelling eight million miles by air.</p><p>Redknapp hopes his experience will encourage more homeowners to think about sustainability when tackling home improvement projects.</p><p>“It’s made me realise how even small changes at home can make a big difference,” he said. “If more of us thought about what we’re using, the impact could be massive.”</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/renovation/harry-redknapp-becomes-face-of-this-eco-diy-product-after-being-shocked-by-waste-during-home-renovation</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ During his own home renovation, Harry Redknapp was stunned by the plastic waste from sealant cartridges, now he’s backing a greener DIY alternative ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">6mPxKp8hgXbDSzbeA8eubT</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JkXeMCh3NUxaygevukFEgQ-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Renovation]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JkXeMCh3NUxaygevukFEgQ-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Unibond]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Harry Redknapp holding two sealants for Unibond]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Harry Redknapp holding two sealants for Unibond]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JkXeMCh3NUxaygevukFEgQ-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ How to get rid of rats in your home in 6 simple (and fast) steps ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If you've noticed the signs of a rodent infestation, you might be wondering how to get rid of rats in your home. While they're active year-round, you'll probably see an increase in activity during the autumn and winter months, when it's cold outside and they seek shelter.</p><p>Just like <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/outdoors/how-to-get-rid-of-mice">mice</a>, these sneaky scavengers can be a nuisance in your home – chewing up wires, spreading oily marks on your walls, and, worst of all, leaving droppings on your floors. Not only can they damage your property, but they also have the potential to spread diseases, such as salmonella and hantavirus, so they're not something you want lurking in your home.</p><p>Rats can be tricky to remove once they've settled in, which is why we've called in pest control experts for their advice on eliminating them. Below, you'll find their six-step guide for getting rid of rats for good, along with product recommendations and the signs to watch out for.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-try-a-live-trap"><span>1. Try a live trap</span></h3><p>One of the most effective ways to get rid of rats in your home is by setting up a humane trap, which allows you to catch the rodent alive without harming it.</p><p>Once you've caught one, Tony King, Owner and Manager of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://thepiedpiper.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Pied Piper</a>, recommends releasing it at least one to two miles from your home. If possible, choose a wooded or rural area far from homes or farms, so the rat is unable to find its way back.</p><p>He adds, "Humane traps should be checked at least two times a day to avoid having rats left in pain or in temperatures that are too extreme."</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="dd60d054-2dda-483a-be75-05bb97348c56"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Anyhall-2-Pack-Traps-Humane-Silver/dp/B0BXH2DGZ7" data-model-name="Live Rat Traps" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4W3djyqYWsMpPPZ4vjduw9.png' alt="Anyhall 2-Pack Rat Traps"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <span class='featured__label horizontal__label'>Two-pack</span> <div class="featured__title">Live Rat Traps</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Featuring an auto-lock door to prevent escapes and holes for ventilation, these humane traps catch rats without killing them.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-seal-entry-points"><span>2. Seal entry points </span></h3><p>Rats can fit through gaps as small as a quarter of an inch, so Tony King says it's important to seal any entry points they could squeeze through. Common areas for holes include windows and doors, roofs and lofts, garages and storage areas, and vents and ducts.</p><p>Tony recommends using steel wool, copper mesh, or metal flashing to keep them out. Avoid using materials like plastic or wood as rats will eventually chew through them. Sealing up your home is also a great <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/outdoors/garden/how-to-get-rid-of-slugs-in-your-home">way to get rid of slugs</a> and other unwanted visitors that try to come inside.</p><h2 id="sealant-products-we-recommend-2">Sealant products we recommend </h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="65d3b0a6-01c7-422e-8c6e-3613ba130a9c"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Steel-Wool-Mice-Stainless-Proofing/dp/B086M6PJB3" data-model-name="Steel Wool" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wZhNxhhog4bG8M2JYRs9wS.png' alt="Two balls of steel wall and a pair of rubber gloves"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>For holes</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Steel Wool</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Prevent rats, mice and insects from entering your home by filling gaps and holes with this steel wool. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="e3dc622b-a19a-4240-8855-545dbc1be9f7"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/GERAWOO-Stainless-Rodent-Panels-Kitchen/dp/B0BBQHMTBW" data-model-name="Rodent Proof Metal Wire Mesh Panels" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/pgvkK3DLdqTnHK5PQgopPK.png' alt="GERAWOO Rodent Proof Metal Wire Mesh Panels rolled up"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>For vents</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Rodent Proof Metal Wire Mesh Panels</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Rats will have a hard time chewing through this durable wire mesh panelling – it's ideal for covering vents.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="40c7583d-3f47-4deb-aa3e-fbb0a08c67fb"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stopper-Weather-Stripping-Blocker-Soundproof/dp/B088BKSZR6/" data-model-name="Draught Excluder " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/shtPaVcWdwoH9DEPvkCCb5.png' alt="Hojoy Draught Excluder on a door"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>For doors</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Draught Excluder </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This draught excluder sticks under your door, keeping both rodents and draughts out.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-remove-food-sources"><span>3. Remove food sources</span></h3><p>One of the quickest ways to attract rats into your home is by leaving food out and unattended – rats see this as an invitation to feast! Tony King recommends storing your food in sealed containers (<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Amazon-Basics-14-Piece-Containers-BPA-Free/dp/B08BS7RYM8" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">like these glass containers from Amazon</a>) and cleaning your kitchen counters of crumbs.</p><p>Another often-overlooked area is the bins. “Remember to regularly empty your bins to discourage rats from inhabiting your home,” advises Tony. To prevent them even further, choose a bin with a tight-fitting lid and move it away from walls so rats can’t climb inside easily.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="cWnbZzrqe4KXBQcUBPkaaa" name="Getty1028360484 - rat" alt="Two rats on draining board, sniffing around food" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cWnbZzrqe4KXBQcUBPkaaa.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Unattended food will attract rats into your home</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/tenra)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-rat-proof-your-garden"><span>4. Rat-proof your garden</span></h3><p>Many people unknowingly attract rats into their homes, and it often starts in the garden! Leaving fruit drops or birdseed on the ground, or having a compost bin without a secure, heavy lid, can encourage rats to come inside.</p><p>Tony King recommends removing excessive undergrowth, clearing away piles of debris, and storing firewood off the ground (use the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-log-store">best log store</a> instead).</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-use-a-natural-repellent"><span>5. Use a natural repellent </span></h3><p>When it comes to using natural repellents, peppermint, eucalyptus, and clove work best, according to Deepak Shukla, CEO of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://plpestcontrol.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">PL Pest Control</a>. These strong-smelling <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Essential-Oil-6-100-Pure-Natural/dp/B0C6XVFJPZ" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">essential oils are fairly cheap on Amazon</a> and will help to deter rats from entering your home and garden.</p><p>Deepak says, "Soak a few cotton balls in peppermint oil. Pop them wherever you’ve spotted activity, like under the sink, behind the bin or in one of the small gaps along the wall."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-ultrasonic-repellents"><span>6. Ultrasonic repellents</span></h3><p>And lastly, Tony King also recommends using an ultrasonic repellent – an electronic device that emits high-frequency sound waves to deter pests. These sounds are inaudible to humans but can be irritating and disruptive to rats.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="5dbf4a5c-1be6-42e2-b4b9-772731b4e04b"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/AMZ-BRAND-Ultrasonic-Pest-Repeller/dp/B0DML461HN" data-model-name="AMZ BRAND Ultrasonic Pest Repeller" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2TAY2JYu5i7mfhtXCjxD.png' alt="AMZ BRAND Ultrasonic Pest Repeller"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <span class='featured__label horizontal__label'>Non-toxic</span> <div class="featured__title">AMZ BRAND Ultrasonic Pest Repeller</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Emitting high-pitched sounds that rats hate, this plug-in device is the easiest way to keep them out of your home.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-are-the-signs-of-rats-in-your-home"><span>What are the signs of rats in your home?</span></h3><p>If you're wondering whether you have rats in the first place, Tony King says to watch out for the following signs:</p><p><strong>1. Noises: </strong>"You can hear scurrying or scratching sounds during the night, particularly behind the walls, in the attic, or under floorboards."</p><p><strong>2. Droppings:</strong> "One of the most positive signs is droppings. They are dark, spindle-shaped and half an inch long. They are typically found along walls, in cupboards, or under appliances."</p><p><strong>3. Gnaw marks: </strong>"You can also see gnaw marks on electrical wires, plastic buckets, or baseboards since rats chew round the clock to avoid their teeth from growing too long."</p><p><strong>4. Oily rub marks: </strong>"Another common sign is the presence of oily rub marks on walls or runways, caused by dirt and oil in their coats."</p><p><strong>5. Nests:</strong> "Rats usually build nests out of ripped paper, insulating material, or fabric and hide them in hidden, cozy spots like attics, garages, or under kitchen sinks."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="anEW729kCqiSJMzCX4wtiD" name="Getty1088179498 - rat" alt="Rat lying on a pink surface in front of a mirror" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/anEW729kCqiSJMzCX4wtiD.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Rats are often heard scurrying about at night</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/Argument)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="what-time-of-year-are-rats-most-active-2">What time of year are rats most active?</h2><p>Rats can infest at any time of the year, but Tony King, Owner and Manager of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://thepiedpiper.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Pied Piper</a>, says they're most likely to cause issues during autumn and winter, when the temperatures get lower. During these seasons, they look for heat, shelter and food – and places like your house, shed and garage make the perfect spots.</p><p>Tony adds, "Rats in warmer climates, however, can breed and thrive year-round if they have a food supply and access to water. One group of rats may have up to six litters per year, so a small infestation could quickly become huge if left untreated early on, so prevention and monitoring have to continue."</p><h2 id="where-do-rats-hide-during-the-day-2">Where do rats hide during the day?</h2><p>Tony says that rats are most active at dawn and dusk, so they can scavenge for food while avoiding predators. During the day, they hide in dark, quiet, and confined spaces, breeding in your attic, basement, wall cavities, or behind large appliances. Outdoors, they take shelter in burrows, compost heaps, under garden sheds, or in dense shrubs, so remember to keep your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/cutting-down-a-tree">trees trimmed</a> back.</p><p>Tony says, "Rats are nocturnal animals, and the majority of their foraging, feeding, exploring, and nesting is done at night. They rest and remain immobile by day to avoid predators and humans. When you find rats during the day, it typically indicates a massive infestation since overcrowding forces some of them to venture out of their usual nightly foraging."</p><p>Having rats in your home can be unsettling, but by following the tips above, you can get rid of them quickly and prevent them from returning in the future.</p><p>If you're struggling with other household pests, read our guide on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/conversion/loft-conversion/how-to-get-rid-of-squirrels-in-your-attic">how to get rid of squirrels in your attic</a>.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/outdoors/garden/how-to-get-rid-of-rats</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Learn how to get rid of rats in your home with these top tips from pest control experts ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">8G6Du4H8gGVDqWtwANTxjh</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XsEmxRK6ZwZ9zXssfDGQZA-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Garden]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Outdoors]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ megan.milstead@futurenet.com (Megan Milstead) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Megan Milstead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XsEmxRK6ZwZ9zXssfDGQZA-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images/Kseniia Glazkova]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Rat on the corner of a table top]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Rat on the corner of a table top]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XsEmxRK6ZwZ9zXssfDGQZA-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Are dehumidifiers loud? The experts answer – plus 6 ways to reduce the noise ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Are dehumidifiers loud? If you plan to use one in your bedroom while you sleep or spend a lot of time at home, you’ll probably be asking yourself this question before buying one.</p><p>The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-dehumidifier">best dehumidifiers</a> are a lifesaver when it comes to removing dampness and condensation, but since they often run for long periods throughout the day, you might be wondering whether the noise will be bothersome.</p><p>To find out if dehumidifiers are loud and what you can do to reduce the sound, we asked the experts for their advice – plus, whether a noisy device indicates an issue and how to make them run even quieter so they don't become a problem.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-are-dehumidifiers-loud"><span>Are dehumidifiers loud?</span></h3><p>“While no dehumidifier, or indeed appliance, is ever truly silent, some models can come impressively close," explains Katie Lilywhite, Category Buyer at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?awinmid=19526&awinaffid=103504&clickref=homebuilding-gb-8961325074185232365&p=https%3A%2F%2Fao.com%2Fathome%2Fauthor%2Fkatie-lilywhite" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AO</a>.</p><p>You can expect a dehumidifier to run between 35 decibels (similar to the sound of a whisper) and 50 decibels (comparable to the volume of a normal conversation). So, when choosing your device, try to opt for one with the lowest number possible.</p><p>If you plan to put your dehumidifier in your bedroom, Katie recommends choosing a model below 40 decibels to avoid disrupting your sleep – some even feature a special 'night' or 'quiet' setting that reduces fan speed. For example, the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/reviews/meacodry-abc-12l">MeacoDry ABC 12L</a>, which our Assistant Editor Sarah tested, features a sleep mode.</p><p>It's worth bearing in mind that <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-a-desiccant-dehumidifier">desiccant dehumidifiers</a> are usually the quietest, as they don’t have a compressor that produces a lot of noise.</p><h2 id="our-favourite-quiet-dehumidifiers-2">Our favourite quiet dehumidifiers</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="4b6d12b5-73e3-4bdd-b93d-082206629474"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/MeacoDry-Compressor-Dehumidifier-Black-Panel/dp/B07FN4F7SM" data-model-name="MeacoDry ABC 12L Dehumidifier " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8FmkPGjsXkLhBoFo8NCR24.png' alt="MeacoDry ABC 12L Dehumidifier "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Compressor</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">MeacoDry ABC 12L Dehumidifier </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Crowned as the best dehumidifier for bedrooms by our tester, this model operates at 35 decibels and has a sleep function.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="87ab6924-5bc2-4138-ba79-ace365b5e3f9"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/VonHaus-Desiccant-Dehumidifier-Day-Condensation/dp/B0CGJ8TM9B" data-model-name="VonHaus Desiccant Dehumidifier 7L" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gAUdjDGJzjhwvHnS6Qkosd.png' alt="VonHaus Desiccant Dehumidifier 7LVonHaus Desiccant Dehumidifier 7L"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Desiccant </span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">VonHaus Desiccant Dehumidifier 7L</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This ultra-quiet dehumidifier runs at just 30 decibels on its lowest setting and offers three different modes to choose from: Laundry, Sleep and Auto.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b8680cc4-51db-4792-ba76-573afd1d052a"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/MeacoDry-Arete%C2%AE-One-12L-Dehumidifier/dp/B0DT9TYSDR" data-model-name="MeacoDry Arete One 12 Dual Dehumidifier" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/C6gtxwxzBs4CTQAKgWd3td.png' alt="MeacoDry 20L Arete One Dehumidifier & Air Purifier White"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Compressor</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">MeacoDry Arete One 12 Dual Dehumidifier</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Operating at 35 decibels and featuring a special <em>‘</em>night mode’, this dehumidifier is Quiet Mark accredited – and also doubles as an air purifier.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-to-make-a-dehumidifier-quieter"><span>How to make a dehumidifier quieter </span></h3><p>While you won’t be able to make your dehumidifier run more quietly than it was designed to, there are a few ways to help it operate more efficiently – and therefore reduce noise.</p><p>Here's what Katie Lilywhite recommends:</p><ol start="1"><li>Set your model to the quietest setting</li><li>Place it on a level surface to prevent extra vibrations</li><li>Position it away from walls and furniture to give it enough room to breathe</li><li><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/cleaning-a-dehumidifier">Clean your dehumidifier</a> regularly to prevent dust build-up in the fan</li><li>Clean or replace the filter regularly</li><li>Vacuum the air intake vent</li></ol><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="F87kxUFggHQEWizvQNyEf" name="Getty2155212715" alt="Dehumidifier placed on wooden flooring in front of a plant and couch in a living room" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/F87kxUFggHQEWizvQNyEf.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Avoid placing your dehumidifier next to walls and furniture </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/onurdongel)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-why-is-my-dehumidifier-making-a-loud-sound"><span>Why is my dehumidifier making a loud sound?</span></h3><p>Every dehumidifier is bound to make some noise, but if you’ve noticed a change in volume, it could signal a problem.</p><p>Viktor Velikov, Director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://elserve.co.uk/" target="_blank">Elserve</a>, says, "Dehumidifiers make some noise by design. The compressor and fan both generate sound as they pull moisture from the air. But if yours has become noticeably louder or makes rattling, grinding, or humming noises, something’s off."</p><p>If you suspect your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/broken-dehumidifier">dehumidifier is broken</a>, Viktor recommends unplugging it, cleaning the air filter, tightening any loose screws, and removing dust or debris around the fan. It might be worth finding out <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/air-quality/dehumidifier/how-long-do-dehumidifiers-last">how long dehumidifiers typically last</a> to see if yours is past the expiry date.</p><p>He adds, "However, if the noise still continues after this, the problem may be with the fan motor or bearings, which usually calls for professional repair or replacement."</p><p>While choosing a quiet model is your best bet, there are a few additional steps you can take to help reduce noise, like keeping up with regular <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/dehumidifier-maintenance">dehumidifier maintenance</a>.</p><p>To keep yours running smoothly and prevent noise-related issues, make sure to avoid these common <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/dehumidifier-mistakes">dehumidifier mistakes</a> too.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/air-quality/dehumidifier/are-dehumidifiers-loud</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Wondering if dehumidifiers are loud? Find out what noise levels to expect ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">AvYqkhgyFarLULikx6cfrY</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bNJwnA4nV4kAsydHmEUN6-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Dehumidifier]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Air Quality]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ megan.milstead@futurenet.com (Megan Milstead) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Megan Milstead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bNJwnA4nV4kAsydHmEUN6-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images/Suchada Tansirimas]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[White modern design air purifier, dehumidifier on black carpet floor in beige wall bedroom by cozy bed, palm tree in sunlight from window]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[White modern design air purifier, dehumidifier on black carpet floor in beige wall bedroom by cozy bed, palm tree in sunlight from window]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bNJwnA4nV4kAsydHmEUN6-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Should the UK embrace prefab homes or are they too good to be true? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The UK is facing a housing crisis, with a government target to build 1.5 million new homes by 2029.</p><p>Traditional construction is struggling to keep up due to rising material costs, labour shortages, and slow planning approvals. Prefabricated homes are being promoted as a potential solution.</p><p>Advocates argue they can <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/building-a-house-the-step-by-step-guide">build homes </a>faster, with higher quality and lower environmental impact, while the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/6166814/modular-prefabricated-construction-market-report?utm_source=GNE&utm_medium=PressRelease&utm_code=365hzl&utm_campaign=2099589+-+Modular+and+Prefabricated+Construction+Industry+Report+2025%2c+Profiles+of+Leading+Companies+-+Bouygues+Construction%2c+Daiwa+House+Industry%2c+ACS%2c+Larsen+%26+Toubro%2c+and+ATCO&utm_exec=chdomsai" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>2025 Modular and Prefabricated Construction Market Report</em></a> shows the global market is growing rapidly. But sceptics question whether prefabrication can be scaled effectively in the UK.</p><p>The debate is growing: should Britain embrace prefabricated housing, or is the solution too good to be true?</p><h2 id="what-are-prefabricated-homes-2">What are prefabricated homes? </h2><p>Prefabricated homes, often called “prefab,” are <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/self-build">self-build</a> homes that use offsite factory-made components.</p><p>These can include panels for walls, floors, and roofs, or entire volumetric modules that form complete sections of a house.</p><p>Once manufactured, the components are transported to the site and assembled, reducing the need for extensive on-site labour and avoiding delays caused by weather or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/construction-materials-shortage">material shortages</a>.</p><p>Factory construction allows for greater precision and quality control, often resulting in fewer defects compared with traditional builds.</p><h2 id="the-global-prefabricated-construction-market-2">The global prefabricated construction market</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:62.50%;"><img id="N7kU7dDTdXXf27p97Bb2CN" name="prefab kit home.jpg" alt="pre fab kit homes" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/N7kU7dDTdXXf27p97Bb2CN.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="1250" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: N House)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The <em>2025 Modular and Prefabricated Construction Market Report </em>shows that the global market for prefab construction is growing strongly, driven by urbanisation, sustainability goals, and labour shortages.</p><p>The report notes: “Modern methods of construction, including volumetric and panelised prefabrication, benefit from digital design tools and factory-based production, increasing efficiency and quality.”</p><p>While this growth is global, the UK has lagged behind, leaving significant potential for domestic homes.</p><h2 id="lessons-from-other-countries-2">Lessons from other countries </h2><p>Internationally, prefabrication is well established. In Sweden, 84 per cent of residential homes use prefabricated elements, achieving both efficiency and sustainability.</p><p>Japan pioneered modular housing in the 1960s with projects such as the Nakagin Capsule Tower. Singapore has relied on prefab for public housing since 2014 to reduce reliance on foreign labour. In the United States, roughly one in ten new homes is prefabricated, providing millions of Americans with high-quality, affordable housing.</p><p>Experts highlight the growing potential of prefabrication. Dr Ramesh Gomasa, Assistant Professor at SR University, describes the trend as <em>“Prefab 2.0”</em>, combining smart technology, automation, and sustainable building materials to create adaptable, high-quality homes.</p><p>Architectural critic Dennis Asis adds that modern prefab homes are faster, smarter, and greener <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-an-eco-home">eco homes</a>, turning construction into a highly efficient, data-driven process. These insights suggest that, if adapted to UK conditions, prefabrication could address many of the country’s persistent housing challenges.</p><h2 id="benefits-of-prefabricated-homes-for-the-uk-2">Benefits of prefabricated homes for the UK </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="hMu65YrCk7CSvXxeWCC3wd" name="Amazon Tiny Home.jpg" alt="An Amazon Tiny Home with an open bifold front door looking into the house" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hMu65YrCk7CSvXxeWCC3wd.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em></em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/amazon-tiny-homes-potentially-unfeasible-in-the-uk"><em>Amazon prefab 'tiny homes' </em></a><em>offer homes for less than $20,000 in the UK</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Amazon)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Prefab housing offers several advantages for the UK.</p><p>Factory-based production reduces the need for skilled on-site labour - crucial, given that the Construction Industry Training Board estimates the sector will need tens of thousands of additional workers annually to meet housing targets.</p><p>Faster construction could help deliver homes more quickly to meet the 1.5 million target, while standardised processes improve quality and energy efficiency.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/self-build">Self-builders</a> may particularly benefit. Prefabricated systems simplify construction, reduce waste, and allow for modular expansion. Andrew Xue, COO at Offsight, highlights: “Across our network, projects are hitting schedules 15–25 per cent faster, with quality defects reduced by 30–50 per cent.”</p><h2 id="challenges-facing-prefabrication-in-the-uk-2">Challenges facing prefabrication in the UK </h2><p>Despite the benefits, challenges remain. Public perception still associates prefab housing with low-quality or temporary solutions, slowing adoption.</p><p>The UK’s fragmented planning system and differing local <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/building-regulations">building regulations</a> complicate standardisation for factory-built homes.</p><p>Initial factory investments are high, and transporting large modules to some locations can be costly. On top of this, the upfront cost of prefab homes themselves can be higher than traditional builds in some cases, particularly for bespoke or high-spec designs.</p><p>Not all international examples translate neatly to the UK. Unlike Sweden or Singapore, the UK’s population is spread across urban and rural areas, which can limit efficiencies.</p><p>Dan Campbell, a modular housing analyst, warns: “Factories can play a role, but they are not a silver bullet. Without supportive policies and streamlined planning, prefab alone won’t solve the housing shortage.”</p><h2 id="is-prefabrication-the-solution-for-the-uk-2">Is prefabrication the solution for the UK? </h2><p>Prefabricated homes offer a promising route to tackle the UK’s housing crisis, delivering speed, quality, sustainability, and reduced reliance on skilled labour.</p><p>However, challenges including public perception, high initial investment, logistics, and regulatory hurdles must be addressed.</p><p>With careful policy support, adaptation to local conditions, and integration of modern technologies highlighted in the <em>2025 Modular and Prefabricated Construction Market Report</em>, prefabrication could become a key part of the solution, though it is unlikely to fully replace traditional construction.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/self-build/should-the-uk-embrace-prefab-homes-or-are-they-too-good-to-be-true</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Prefabricated homes promise speed, quality, and sustainability, but can they truly help the UK tackle its housing crisis, or are there hidden challenges? ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">qzdvCyyQNgPJQUaUswT6BZ</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rkTUKoVwwv82t5E5jqzEYb-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Self Build]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rkTUKoVwwv82t5E5jqzEYb-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Foxtons]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A Huf Haus with a glass fronted house and front garden]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A Huf Haus with a glass fronted house and front garden]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rkTUKoVwwv82t5E5jqzEYb-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Want to get rid of dust mites in your home? Expert shares a step-by-step guide ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If you're prone to allergic reactions or asthma symptoms, you might be wondering how to get rid of dust mites. These seemingly harmless microscopic creatures don't bite or spread disease, but their waste and body fragments can trigger reactions in sensitive people.</p><p>Dust mites feed on dead skin flakes from humans and animals, making our mattresses, bedding and carpets the perfect places for them to live. They thrive in humid conditions and reproduce quickly, so it's important to keep humidity levels below 50%.</p><p>Just like their distant cousins – the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/outdoors/garden/how-to-keep-spiders-out-of-your-house">spider</a> and the tick – there are several things you can do to get rid of them, such as regular cleaning and using natural deterrents. To discover the best ways to banish them and spot the signs of an infestation, we asked pest control experts for their advice.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-to-get-rid-of-dust-mites"><span>How to get rid of dust mites</span></h3><p><strong>1. Regular cleaning</strong><br>To deter dust mites, make sure you're washing your bedding, sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers once a week in hot water, advises Daniel Steward, Managing Director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://shieldpestcontrol.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Shield Pest Control</a>.</p><p>If a hot wash isn’t possible, he recommends tumble drying on high heat for around 10 to 15 minutes. You'll also want to vacuum your mattresses, carpets and upholstery weekly, as well as steam-clean your soft furnishings.</p><p><strong>2. Use protective covers</strong><br>Your bed is one of the most popular spots for dust mites, so Daniel suggests protecting your pillows and mattress with a dust mite-proof cover (like the one below).</p><p>“Reduce the number of soft surfaces where mites can live – swap out heavy curtains for washable blinds, limit plush toys, and avoid wall-to-wall carpeting in bedrooms if possible," he adds. "Keeping your space simple makes cleaning easier and more effective.”</p><p><strong>3. Keep the air cool and dry</strong><br>Since dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments, try to keep the air as cool and dry as possible in your home. Daniel recommends maintaining temperatures below 21°C and humidity levels under 50%, which the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-dehumidifier">best dehumidifier</a> can help you to achieve.</p><p><strong>4. Try natural treatments</strong><br>In addition to the steps above, you can try a natural treatment such as sprinkling a mixture of baking soda and a few drops of essential oil on your mattress or carpet. Let it sit for an hour, then vacuum it up.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="SVDxBfYuP4jeS48JGo8yve" name="Getty539665723 - dust mite" alt="Illustration of a dust mite" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SVDxBfYuP4jeS48JGo8yve.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Regular cleaning can reduce dust mites in your home</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/SEBASTIAN KAULITZKI)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="top-products-to-deter-dust-mites-2">Top products to deter dust mites</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="592da173-da9c-40d3-bb62-d67fcd682dc2"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Craft-Native-Zippered-Pillow-Protectors/dp/B08JKDL2YG/" data-model-name="Pillow Protectors" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/duR7DmQiyjYBtBfrqYvdRi.png' alt="Craft Native Pack of 4 Zippered Pillow Protectors 100% Cotton "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Pack of four</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Pillow Protectors</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Made from 100% cotton, these pillow covers provide protection against dust mites and fit comfortably beneath your regular slip.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="07edf30e-86c4-4cd6-86ba-a283907c8993"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/4AS-Premium-Waterproof-Mattress-Encasement/dp/B0DWXJQFDC" data-model-name="Mattress Protector " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/pq8U56hZ9UqcYW99AHcEqd.png' alt="Hand pouring blue liquid over 4AS Waterproof Mattress Protector Double "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Waterproof</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Mattress Protector </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>With a 360° closure and waterproof design, this mattress protector will keep dust mites out and is available in five sizes.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="fffbea4f-72df-48a7-a000-6ea79edb65ff"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00HO963A6" data-model-name="Meaco 20L Dehumidifier" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/PBdqbEczWo9kxXRDjFF7aN.png' alt="Meaco 20L Dehumidifier"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Cheap to run</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Meaco 20L Dehumidifier</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This dehumidifier is affordable to run, costing just 6p per hour, and comes with a free HEPA filter that purifies the air – ideal for allergy sufferers.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-smell-repels-dust-mites"><span>What smell repels dust mites?</span></h3><p>Using strong-smelling natural oils (<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lagunamoon-Aromatherapy-Therapeutic-Eucalyptus-Lemongrass/dp/B06XGBW82N" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">like these essential oils from Amazon</a>) is another great way to repel dust mites. Daniel Steward recommends tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender, clove, peppermint, and lemongrass.</p><p>Here’s how to apply them in your home:</p><ol start="1"><li>Mix a few drops of essential oil with water or white vinegar in a spray bottle</li><li>Lightly mist your mattress, bedding, carpets, curtains and upholstery</li><li>Add a few drops of oil to your laundry when washing bedding in hot water</li><li>Let everything dry completely before use</li></ol><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="uCDeCdPoLU28iyqxHqhqmB" name="Getty1039615958 - spray" alt="Hand spraying liquid from a bottle" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uCDeCdPoLU28iyqxHqhqmB.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Looking for a natural repellent? Try spraying essential oils around your home</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/Catherine Falls Commercial)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-do-you-know-if-you-have-dust-mites"><span>How do you know if you have dust mites?</span></h3><p><strong>1. Skin irritation</strong><br>Have you noticed mild rashes, itching, or eczema flare-ups? According to Daniel Steward, this could be a sign of dust mites – especially if your skin improves when you’re away from home. You might also see small red bumps or irritated patches on your face, neck, or arms.</p><p><strong>2. Environmental clues</strong><br>We can’t see dust mites with the naked eye, but you can look for signs in your home, such as dust buildup on furniture or musty-smelling bedding.</p><p><strong>3. Allergy symptoms</strong><br>If dust mites are present in your home, you might experience symptoms such as sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, or wheezing. Daniel notes that these symptoms are usually worse at night or in the morning.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-where-do-dust-mites-live"><span>Where do dust mites live?</span></h3><p>Dust mites are commonly found in bedding, mattresses, upholstered furniture and carpets, according to Tony King, pest control expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://thepiedpiper.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Pied Piper</a>. He explains that pillows are the worst offenders, as they trap warmth and moisture from our breath and skin.</p><p>He says, "Studies indicate that a pillow's weight can escalate by as much as 10% after two years of usage, due to the presence of dust mites and their waste."</p><p>Dust mites are found in nearly all homes in the UK, and around one in five adults and one in twenty children are allergic to them, according to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://allergynorthwest.nhs.uk/resources/allergy-leaflets/housedustmiteavoidance-2/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">NHS</a>. However, by following the steps above, you can help reduce these symptoms.</p><p>For more pest control advice, check out our tips on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/bathroom/how-to-get-rid-of-silverfish">how to get rid of silverfish</a> – another unwanted creature that thrives in humid conditions.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/air-quality/how-to-get-rid-of-dust-mites</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Here's how to get rid of dust mites in your home, according to pest-control experts ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">wVveNgv5nm5Pa9N59Qq3yE</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RbDxDi6f4vLxGvbPaCdrof-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Air Quality]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ megan.milstead@futurenet.com (Megan Milstead) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Megan Milstead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RbDxDi6f4vLxGvbPaCdrof-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images/3dMediSphere]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Illustration of a dust mite]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Illustration of a dust mite]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RbDxDi6f4vLxGvbPaCdrof-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ ‘Absolutely no way’ government’s 1.5m homes pledge can be met ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The government’s promise to deliver 1.5 million new homes in England by 2029 has been branded “absolutely impossible” by one of Britain’s most respected housing economists.</p><p>Speaking on BBC Panorama’s <em>The Race to Build 1.5 Million Homes</em>, Professor Paul Cheshire warned that the scale of the target “cannot be done” within the next five years.</p><p>He said there was “absolutely no way” the government could meet its pledge, pointing to chronic planning delays, skills shortages and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-much-does-it-cost-to-build-a-house">rising costs to build homes</a> have already slowed the pace of housebuilding.</p><h2 id="industry-reaction-a-reality-check-on-delivery-2">Industry reaction: a reality check on delivery </h2><p>Cheshire’s remarks echo long-standing concerns in the building industry that the government has underestimated the scale of the challenge.</p><p>While ministers talk about a “new era” of construction, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/how-many-homes-have-labour-managed-to-build-in-their-first-year-in-power">Labour in their first year in charge have seen around 186,600 homes built</a>, far below the 300,000 a year needed to meet the target.</p><p>Builders told Panorama that even well-planned developments are stalling under the weight of red tape, cost inflation and a lack of skilled labour.</p><p>One senior figure said that “every new condition, tax or delay pushes another project off the table,” warning that optimism alone won’t be enough to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/building-a-house-the-step-by-step-guide">build homes</a>.</p><h2 id="criticism-of-the-grey-belt-plan-2">Criticism of the ‘grey belt’ plan </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="5Gv7US7iQKd9mFwfUWjJrF" name="House of Parliament" alt="The Houses of Parliament" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5Gv7US7iQKd9mFwfUWjJrF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A </em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/house-of-lords-committee-launch-inquiry-into-governments-grey-belt-proposals"><em>House of Lords committee criticised the government's grey belt proposals</em></a><em> after it was found to be </em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/governments-grey-belt-housing-plan-branded-ineffective-by-lords-committee"><em>"redundant"</em></a> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Panorama also scrutinised the government’s proposal to free up so-called <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/what-is-the-grey-belt-the-land-that-might-now-fall-into-this-new-category">“grey belt” land</a>, areas of poor-quality green belt that could be used for new housing.</p><p>Professor Cheshire dismissed the policy as “fuzzy and politically convenient,” arguing that it would do little to unlock large-scale development.</p><p>“They’ve left it to the fuzziness of the planning system and therefore to local lobbying, and it won’t happen,” he told the programme.</p><p>Critics say the policy leaves councils unsure which sites qualify for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/planning-permission">planning permission</a> and risks endless disputes over definitions, threatening to mire projects in more bureaucracy rather than less.</p><h2 id="reed-says-my-job-should-be-on-the-line-2">Reed says ‘my job should be on the line’ </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="uuD7PRDetbhCkEUyKpM2iE" name="Environment Secretary Steve Reed speaks about the Independent Water Commission findings on July 21, 2025 in London, England." alt="Environment Secretary Steve Reed speaks about the Independent Water Commission findings on July 21, 2025 in London, England." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uuD7PRDetbhCkEUyKpM2iE.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Housing Secretary </em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/planning/new-housing-secretary-continues-pledge-to-build-baby-build"><em>Steve Reed pledged to "build baby build"</em></a><em> when he came in office</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Housing Secretary Steve Reed told Panorama he was “absolutely confident” the 1.5 million homes target would be delivered, and that his “job should be on the line” if it is not.</p><p>He said: “If we don’t deliver, I don’t deserve to be in this post.”</p><p>Reed insisted that forcing councils to adopt local <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/design-codes">design codes</a> within 30 months, rather than the current seven-year average, would help “unblock the system” and accelerate building.</p><p>But the programme exposed the gulf between political ambition and practical delivery, a race against time in which success, as Cheshire warned, “looks increasingly out of reach.”</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/planning/absolutely-no-way-governments-1-5m-homes-pledge-can-be-met</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Economist Paul Cheshire tells BBC Panorama there is “absolutely no way” the 1.5 million homes target can be met, as ministers defend their housing strategy ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">SFo2S99mrQhnWwvQCTABMU</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TPE8WMutmLDzu35xbHgPzE-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Planning]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TPE8WMutmLDzu35xbHgPzE-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (C) views plans during a visit to the housing construction development of Elverby]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (C) views plans during a visit to the housing construction development of Elverby]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TPE8WMutmLDzu35xbHgPzE-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ What you need to do before tiling on wood to ensure your tiles stick and stay looking good ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>You might think that tiling on wooden floors is as simple as sticking tiles straight onto the timber. But we can assure it isn’t that straightforward. Wood expands and contracts, so it needs to be prepared properly, using the right materials, for a successful and long-lasting finish.</p><p>If you don’t prepare a wooden floor or wall correctly, the tiles can crack and lift, meaning you’ll be <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/tiling-a-floor"><u>tiling a floor</u></a> much sooner than you wanted. Here you’ll find out how to prep floorboards, treat plywood and discover what type of board you could need to ensure your tiles stay where they are meant to.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-check-your-wooden-floor"><span>Check your wooden floor</span></h3><p>If you have a wooden floor that you want to tile, there are a few checks you will need to make first. Laying tiles directly onto floorboards is a no-no, says Mark Irving, Building expert Mark Irving, from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.buildandplumb.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Build & Plumb</a>, “You can’t lay tiles directly onto wooden floorboards as the individual floorboards are susceptible to movement, which can result in the cracking of the tiles and grout.”</p><p>If you have hardwood or MDF over the floorboards, these are not ideal choices as they absorb water, which can lead to issues later on. You can tile onto plywood, but it requires a minimum depth of 18mm and must be securely fastened to joists or the subfloor. You’ll need to check that there is no movement.</p><p>Additionally, plywood will need to be primed with a suitable primer, such as the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Generic-BAL-APD-Primer-2-5L/dp/B0FHWRTQP4/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>BAL APD Primer, available on Amazon</u></a>. Any joints will also need to be filled with a silicone sealant to prevent tile adhesive from seeping into the gaps.</p><p>Irving suggests an alternative to wood that will work well “Prior to tiling a wooden floor, it’s important to install a cement backer board between the tiles and the wooden flooring. This will provide a stable and flat surface for the tiles to sit on, preventing cracks from forming in the grout.”</p><h2 id="try-these-tools-to-help-tile-on-wooden-floors-2">Try these tools to help tile on wooden floors</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d706d1cd-d7e0-43c5-b89b-b9851f30e40b"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/CT1-Building-Adhesive-Virtually-Material/dp/B0B4BDY31H/" data-model-name="CT1 Building Sealant & Adhesive" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DR3Uq66yKpYaoVjChfZ4Fa.jpg' alt="CT1 sealant & adhesive"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>CLEAR SEALANT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">CT1 Building Sealant & Adhesive</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This super-strong, clear sealant provides an all-in-one solution for sealing and bonding in both exterior and interior settings. It works well in wet or dry conditions and is an ideal choice for sealing wooden floors. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="53f920a2-b47b-47bc-b203-9a7c480d4395"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tile-Backer-Board-10MM-12MM/dp/B0BTQ7K1MJ/" data-model-name="Tile Backer Board " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/De5FgpcyXcKXDbgxRWZxH9.jpg' alt="Tile Backer Board "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>BACKER BOARD</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Tile Backer Board </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Tiling backer board helps provide a flat, level, secure, and moisture-resistant subfloor ideal for tiles, offering excellent insulation qualities. Choose from 6mm, 10mm and 12mm boards to suit your needs.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="890c2187-3b3a-4a93-8c8f-4114a7290a73"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cordless-Brushless-Polishing-Improvements-CROSLI20021/dp/B0DPHWDKPL" data-model-name="INGCO Cordless Random Orbit Sander" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JvnaTrm4KNye7eYcqzncY3.jpg' alt="Ingco 20v Cordless Random Orbit Sander 125mm, Brushless Motor, 6 Variable Speeds, Electric Sander Ideal for Sanding, Polishing Wood, Home Improvements Crosli20021"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>CORDLESS SANDER</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">INGCO Cordless Random Orbit Sander</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>When working with wooden floors, they need to be level before tiling. This cordless random orbit sander features six variable speeds, enabling you to quickly remove unwanted ridges on wooden floors or walls.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-level-the-floor"><span>Level the floor</span></h3><p>The first step is to ensure that you have a level floor before introducing a subfloor or board. There is no point adding a subfloor to an uneven floor, as this will cause issues later on. Floorboards are usually the biggest culprit.</p><p>Irving explains how to level out as best as possible, “To level a wooden floor before tiling it’s important to identify any loose floorboards.” He adds, “To do this, walk carefully over your flooring and identify movement or creaking boards. Mark the creaking floorboards using a pencil and carefully nail the floorboards down to secure them.”</p><p>Check the floor with a two metre (or longer) straight edge to ensure that there are no high ridges. A floor should be no more than plus or minus 3mm to ensure tiles stick properly. If there are any ridges, these can be flattened out with an electric sander or, if needed, an electric plane (like this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/DNTI-500w-Electric-mm16000rpm-Woodworking-2920B/dp/B0D8DPR53B" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>DNTI-500w Electric Hand Wood Planer from Amazon</u></a>). If there are any dips, use a suitable filler or levelling compound suitable for wood.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-to-prepare-a-wooden-floor-for-tiling"><span>How to prepare a wooden floor for tiling</span></h3><p>Before you start tiling, ensure you have enough tiles to cover the entire floor. Measure the square meterage and remember to add ten percent for wastage</p><h2 id="1-secure-floorboards-2">1. Secure floorboards</h2><p>Before any tiles or subfloor is laid, Irving says, “Secure any loose floorboards to provide a smooth and even surface for your tiles. Walk over your floorboards and identify any that move or creak. Nail or screw down any loose floorboards to prevent further movement. Ensure that you identify any pipes or wiring before proceeding to avoid costly mistakes.”</p><h2 id="2-add-subfloor-2">2. Add subfloor</h2><p>There are several options for a subfloor, but Irving recommends cement backer board. “Next, it's time to choose your overboard that you will place over the wooden floorboards as a base for your tiles.” He adds, “A cement backer board is a good choice.”</p><p>However, before you lay the backer board, Irving says, “Prior to laying your overboard, make sure to give your wooden floorboards a deep clean. Then install your overboard using screws and adhesive, and avoid any gaps, as over time this can cause movement.”</p><p>One tip when installing cement backer board is to use a mesh tape (like this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gorilla-Filler-Plasterboard-Drywall-Mesh/dp/B09M3Q98MK" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Gorilla Filler Plasterboard & Drywall Mesh Tape from Amazon</u></a>) over any gaps to help the adhesive work properly.</p><h2 id="3-prime-floor-2">3. Prime floor</h2><p>To finish the preparation, Irving recommends adding a primer, “Prime your overboard using a Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) primer, as this will improve the durability of the tiles by offering good adhesion. Leave the primer to fully dry before laying the tiles”</p><p>If using plywood, a primer will definitely be needed. However, you may not need to prime the backer board. Check the manufacturer's recommendations. This typically indicates whether the board requires priming, depending on the type of adhesive being used.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-tile-adhesive-to-use"><span>Tile adhesive to use</span></h3><p>This will depend on what type of subfloor you have installed. If you have a wooden floor, such as plywood, then you need to use a flexible tile adhesive like <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.diy.com/departments/mapei-super-flexible-grey-tile-adhesive-20kg/38144_BQ.prd?" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Mapei Super Flexible Grey Tile Adhesive from B&Q</u></a>. This helps mitigate any movement in the subfloor. If cement backer board has been used to cover a wooden floor, you can use a standard tile adhesive suitable for floors.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="can-you-tile-wood-walls-2">Can you tile wood walls?</h2><p>The same principle applies to wooden walls as to wooden floors. If you have plywood on walls, it needs to be flat, primed and securely fitted; otherwise, you will encounter problems, as Irving points out, “Tiling straight onto wooden walls should be avoided as the tiles can move and crack as the wood expands and contracts”.</p><p>If tiling onto wooden walls, Irving says, “A cement backer board should be used on wooden walls to provide a durable, rigid and moisture-resistant base before tiling.”</p><h2 id="do-you-need-to-waterproof-wooden-floors-walls-if-tiling-in-a-bathroom-2">Do you need to waterproof wooden floors/walls if tiling in a bathroom?</h2><p>When tiling in an area with high moisture content, such as a bathroom or wet room, any wooden floors or walls need to be protected. Irving says, “Prior to tiling a bathroom, it’s important to ensure that walls and floors are waterproof, as tiles and grout alone will not protect your walls and floor from water damage and wood rot.”</p><p>One option is to use tile backer boards, but you need to check if they are waterproof. Irving says, “Although tiling backer boards can provide moisture protection, not all cement backer boards are fully waterproof; some are only water resistant.” He adds, “If this is the case, then tanking your walls and floors will be necessary to prevent moisture damage.”</p><p>A fully waterproof backer board is typically more expensive than standard backer board, so using a paint-on waterproofing system (like this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Everbuild-EVBAQWPTM-Aquaseal-Waterproof-Membrane/dp/B006FTP6JK/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Everbuild Aquaseal Waterproof Tanking Membrane from Amazon</u></a>) is an alternative option. You simply need to apply it on top of the backer board, along with tanking tape (like this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nassboards-Waterproof-Tanking-Tape-Waterproofing/dp/B09SNY5D3G/?th=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Nassboards Waterproof Tanking Tape from Amazon</u></a>) on joints.</p><p>If you are looking to tile your bathroom or kitchen, make sure to check out <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-floor-tile-ideas"><u>kitchen floor tile ideas</u></a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/bathroom-tiling-ideas"><u>bathroom tiling ideas</u></a>. Also, read our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/where-to-buy-bathroom-floor-tiles"><u>Where to buy bathroom floor tiles</u></a> guide to help you get what you want at the price you want.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/diy/tiling-on-wood</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Get your preparation right for tiling on wood, and you won't be coming back to fix any time soon ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">6srgKFRV739bbKvhhcZyqZ</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ELVNZnVBvPTGjWTd5FJgHQ-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[DIY]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Steve Jenkins ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ELVNZnVBvPTGjWTd5FJgHQ-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Man spreading tile adhesive with a notched trowel onto wooden floor with cement backer board ]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Man spreading tile adhesive with a notched trowel onto wooden floor with cement backer board ]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ELVNZnVBvPTGjWTd5FJgHQ-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ FMB supports 'urgent' flood resilience plan as 6.3 million homes found to be at risk ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The number of homes at risk of flooding in the UK has reached a record high, with the Environment Agency warning that more than 6.3 million properties could already be exposed.</p><p>Experts say this figure could climb to one in four homes by 2050 as climate pressures intensify. Now, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is backing a new national plan, the FloodReady Review, aimed at making <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/flood-proof-homes">flood-proof homes</a> the norm.</p><p>The FMB says builders must play a central role in strengthening homes and communities against the growing threat of floods.</p><h2 id="flood-risks-growing-as-climate-pressures-mount-2">Flood risks growing as climate pressures mount</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="hGKjZqbZqwtM872gWgsPgD" name="Bewdley , national flags and flood barriers erected to protect local population,Bewdley Bridge,Worcestershire,England" alt="Bewdley , national flags and flood barriers erected to protect local population,Bewdley Bridge,Worcestershire,England" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hGKjZqbZqwtM872gWgsPgD.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/over-7-000-homes-set-to-be-built-in-highest-flood-risk-areas-think-tank-finds"><em>A think tank found over 7,000 homes were set to be built in the highest flood risk areas in the UK</em></a> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The FloodReady Review, led by Professor Peter Bonfield for the Environment Agency, warns that traditional flood defences can no longer cope with the pace of change.</p><p>It says the country needs to make property flood resilience, or PFR, a normal part of every home upgrade. This includes simple steps like fitting flood doors, raising <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/electrical-sockets-explained">plug sockets</a>, and using water-resistant materials.</p><p>Government figures suggest that up to eight million properties could face flood danger by 2050 if action is not taken.</p><p>The Review adds that floods already cause billions in damage each year, and the emotional impact on families can last long after the water recedes. It calls for stronger teamwork between the government, insurers, and the construction industry to make homes better prepared.</p><h2 id="builders-call-for-clear-standards-and-training-2">Builders call for clear standards and training</h2><p>The Federation of Master Builders says the Review is a major step towards safer, more resilient homes.</p><p>Chief Executive Brian Berry said flooding is “one of the most pressing climate challenges” and that small builders are key to protecting local communities. He added that making resilience measures as common as insulation or fire safety will take proper training, clear standards, and better public awareness.</p><p>The FMB is urging government to introduce builder licensing and improved accreditation for flood-resilience work.</p><p>The organisation believes this would boost public confidence and make it easier for homeowners to find trusted tradespeople. It also sees flood resilience as a way to support local jobs and future-proof homes as climate risks grow.</p><h2 id="turning-the-floodready-plan-into-action-2">Turning the FloodReady plan into action</h2><p>The FloodReady Review recommends new national standards and incentives to make flood protection part of routine building work.</p><p>It proposes a Flood Performance Certificate, similar to a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-an-epc">EPC</a>, so homeowners can see how well their property is protected. It also highlights insurance schemes such as Build Back Better, which helps pay for resilience upgrades when homes are repaired after a flood.</p><p>The government has signalled it will include property-level measures in future flood defence spending. Housing associations and councils are also being encouraged to include flood upgrades in renovation programmes. But the Review warns that progress depends on public awareness, affordable finance, and stronger regulation.</p><p>With the FMB’s support, builders are ready to help lead the change, but sustained effort from government, insurers, and homeowners will be needed. As the Environment Agency notes, preparing homes for flooding “is no longer optional, it’s essential.”</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/suppliers/professionals/fmb-supports-urgent-flood-resilience-plan-as-6-3-million-homes-found-to-be-at-risk</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Builders back urgent action to protect millions of UK homes as flood risks rise ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">83jP2EcMxxAkNSiyq96fpW</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FJmn8fdhBc2KM3niTBMTZH-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Professionals]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Suppliers]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FJmn8fdhBc2KM3niTBMTZH-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Riverside houses, sunset, Thames river, Surrey UK]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Riverside houses, sunset, Thames river, Surrey UK]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FJmn8fdhBc2KM3niTBMTZH-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ This is how to match your skirting boards to your interior style according to the experts ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Does anyone walk into a decorating shop excited about skirting boards? Paint colours, yes. Tiles, definitely. Even door handles get their moment. But those unassuming strips of timber that run along the base of the wall? They’re usually an afterthought, chosen at the last minute with a quick, “just something simple, please.”</p><p>Yet much like a good frame completes a painting, the right <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/skirting-board-ideas">skirting board ideas </a>have the potential to pull a room together. Get it wrong and it can throw off the proportions or jar with your home’s character. Get it right and it anchors the space beautifully, bridging floor and wall with purpose.</p><p>From the decorative ogee profiles of Victorian terraces to the crisp, square-edged designs in modern homes, skirting boards tell a story about the era they belong to. So how do you match yours to your interior style? We asked designers and craftspeople for their expert advice.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-victorian-georgian-and-edwardian-homes"><span>Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian homes </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1200px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:133.42%;"><img id="8HZgrPuUgpChnUFt37crxk" name="traditional painted types of skirting board .jpg" alt="painted skirting board in traditional living room" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8HZgrPuUgpChnUFt37crxk.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1200" height="1601" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>In period homes, embrace the architecture by choosing elaborately profiled skirting.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Annie Sloan)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Victorian, Edwardian and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/georgian-style">Georgian style </a>properties all typically boast high ceilings, generous windows and decorative mouldings. If you’re lucky enough to live in one, pay attention to your skirting boards. They can help define the architecture, echo the room’s proportions and tie together all those beautiful period details.</p><p>“In <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/victorian-hallway-ideas">Victorian hallways</a> and living spaces, ogee or torus profiles around 150 to 200mm high fit perfectly,” says Scott Godfrey, professional carpenter at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://www.blackhammer.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Blackhammer</a>. “They echo the decorative details of the period and balance tall ceilings and deep <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-architrave">architraves</a>.”</p><p>Gareth Davies, design director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://www.classicinteriors.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Classic Interiors</a>, agrees, adding that ornate profiles like ogee or egg-and-dart give the space a sense of grandeur, while Edwardian interiors benefit from something slightly simpler. “They’re still tall, but with gentler curves and less detailing to suit their lighter, more elegant feel,” he explains.</p><p><strong>Top tip: </strong>When it comes to finishes, these period styles lend themselves beautifully to colour. For a fresh take, consider <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-skirting-boards">painting skirting boards</a> in a darker or tonal shade against lighter walls. It’s a trick designers use to frame a room and add depth to interiors.</p><h2 id="period-style-skirting-boards-2">Period style skirting boards</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="25bc6ba9-1860-41c2-bbff-013a16605bd6"> <a href="https://metresdirect.co.uk/products/georgian?variant=47031962900&country=GB&currency=GBP&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&srsltid=AfmBOoptbif-ZCKvMmidkEEwLK3IzMzosubhMhj7pcUXgaQBsKbwJWDi2oM" data-model-name="Georgian Skirting Board" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dzLmFMjTrpqyGfJeNME4iK.jpg' alt="Georgian Skirting Board"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Georgian</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Georgian Skirting Board</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This tall Georgian skirting is frequently used in traditional and classic interior designs, but can complement almost all styles of interior.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="026f6376-c3a1-4589-87e4-46363a093722"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/goodhome-fully-finished-white-mdf-ogee-skirting-board-l-2400mm-w-119mm-t-18mm/5059340060583_BQ.prd?storeId=1049" data-model-name="GoodHome MDF Ogee Skirting" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KAazrrJhqpACMTNyGfubhR.jpg' alt="An ogee skirting board"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Ogee Style</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">GoodHome MDF Ogee Skirting</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This easy-to-install skirting board features a classic Victorian ogee design. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d5f4180d-c2ff-4276-acf7-a97f6dcb31a4"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/national-skirting-victorian-mdf-skirting-board-220mm-x-18mm-x-3040mm-primed-no-rebate/5056708412046_BQ.prd?srsltid=AfmBOoqGdQ2FIFWQkxqocIQjMjCrh1DHOEHXdu4f-itNSCAkK2Ltro4R41s" data-model-name="National Skirting (Victorian)" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/kMw4ZGSvXMMydSWe8Bqdz9.jpg' alt="A piece of ornate Victorian style skirting board in white primed MDF"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Ornate Victorian</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">National Skirting (Victorian)</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This ornate Victorian style skirting is available in an unprimed MDF, primed white MDF and also in a real wood oak, walnut or Pine. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-arts-crafts-and-mid-century-homes"><span>Arts & Crafts and mid-century homes </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="y2BQMwWHVLPhfnda8m8NcE" name="Skirting Boards" alt="A mid century interior with a red armchair, wooden skirting and a colourful rug" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/y2BQMwWHVLPhfnda8m8NcE.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>In mid-century homes, timber detailing is key to achieving that warm, understated elegance the era is known for</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://www.benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk">Benjamin Moore UK</a>)</span></figcaption></figure><p>As interiors moved away from the heavy ornamentation of the Victorian era, the Arts & Crafts movement ushered in a love of honest materials and handcrafted simplicity. Skirting boards became less about grandeur and more about proportion, texture and balance.</p><p>"Arts & Crafts houses can take a simpler approach," says Scott Godfrey from Blackhammer. "Think clean, linear mouldings that highlight proportion without competing with other features." These profiles work best in natural finishes, such as oak, ash or reclaimed pine treated with oils that bring out the grain.</p><p>Thomas Goodwin, property expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.myjobquote.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">MyJobQuote.co.uk,</a> adds that understated profiles such as ovolo or bullnose suit the modest detailing typical of these eras. "These designs offer soft curves and clean lines that echo the craftsmanship and restraint of the period," he says.</p><p>If your home leans more mid-century, opt for a slim, unfussy board with a rounded or chamfered edge to maintain the low-slung, architectural feel of the time. Natural materials still reign here, but you can experiment with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-paint">painted finishes</a> in muted, earthy tones to stay true to the palette of the 1950s and ’60s.</p><p>For those designing with sustainability in mind, Stuart Murray, founder of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://retrovintageonline.co.uk/about-retrovintage-vintage-mid-century-danish-retro-furniture-glasgow-edinburgh-uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Retrovintage</a>, suggests exploring renewable materials like cork or bamboo, or recycled composites finished in natural oils. These options nod to the handcrafted ethos of the Arts & Crafts era while feeling entirely modern in execution.</p><h2 id="mid-century-skirting-designs-2">Mid-Century Skirting Designs</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="84b41f97-a015-466b-84e7-295208b25384"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/metsa-wood-primed-white-mdf-ovolo-skirting-board-l-2400mm-w-119mm-t-14-5mm-pack-of-4/5022652850029_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Metsä Wood Primed Ovolo Skirting" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wVjnAs8XABvhrNkRkb86JG.jpg' alt="A piece of ovolo style skirting, primed in white"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Ovolo Style</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Metsä Wood Primed Ovolo Skirting</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Primed with two coats of quality primer, this sleek ovolo design is ready for installation and painting. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="2f9c52b5-9ca1-49b1-a53a-f20044dc8497"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/national-skirting-bullnose-i-mdf-skirting-board-170mm-x-18mm-x-3040mm-primed-no-rebate/5056708409626_BQ.prd" data-model-name="National Skirting Bullnose" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/aLvE33gXSWFMm3dbsbP7gY.jpg' alt="A piece of bullnose skirting, primed in white paint"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Bullnose</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">National Skirting Bullnose</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>The Bullnose MDF Skirting Board follows a clean cut look with both inward and outer curves to give the board contrast.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="80ef5360-0bce-4b37-a5db-b198ed003f94"> <a href="https://www.leaderonline.com/products/leader-oak-fully-finished-24m-grooved-shaker-skirting-board-opfskirsh?variant=48497496097001&currency=GBP&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17347645835&gbraid=0AAAAADwy35D1QRt43XQyEoR1x4wCi10MN&gclid=CjwKCAjwr8LHBhBKEiwAy47uUgKvRTgth1jDSfWRcaNsrO7WWR2H4_Al-DmuExWO7QuW-KcrQirD_BoC7g4QAvD_BwE" data-model-name="Oak Fully Finished Shaker Skirting Board" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AagtkYvNsZQ5URGHKysEDC.jpg' alt="Oak Fully Finished 2.4m Grooved Shaker Skirting Board (120317)"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Oak-Effect</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Oak Fully Finished Shaker Skirting Board</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This oak-effect skirting board, with its clean lines and subtle groove detail, perfectly complements mid-century homes.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-modern-and-contemporary-homes"><span>Modern and contemporary homes </span></h2><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="JvSVuYyotmPeScQDdHksbE" name="Skirting Boards" alt="A modern interior with floating wooden cabinets against an olive-green wall. The units are topped with decorative bowls and a white lamp, while a stack of magazines sits on a rustic stool nearby." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JvSVuYyotmPeScQDdHksbE.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">Modern interiors favour simplicity, so choose slim, streamlined profiles that keep the look crisp and understated. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://www.benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk">Benjamin Moore UK</a>)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="pdEN6teW9tNVnPxWtSoWmW" name="Skirting Boards" alt="A chic beige bedroom with flush skirting and a mid century bedside lamp on a square bedside table" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/pdEN6teW9tNVnPxWtSoWmW.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">Flush skirting boards are a stylish choice for modern homes, but they do require a lot of planning. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://www.lightsandlamps.com">lightsandlamps.com</a>)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><p>In contemporary interiors, the mantra is less is more. Skirting boards are pared right back, designed to blend seamlessly with the wall or disappear altogether. You’ll want to aim for a crisp, architectural look that keeps the focus on the materials and form of the space rather than the detailing. You may even consider skirting board alternatives to do away with these fixtures altogether.</p><p>“In modern homes, you can pare things right back,” says Scott Godfrey from Blackhammer. "Square-edged or chamfered skirting between 80 and 120mm gives a crisp outline that suits open-plan layouts and contemporary finishes. It keeps the look light and refined, avoiding being overly formal.”</p><p>For a truly minimalist finish, Gareth Davies recommends flush skirting boards that sit level with the plaster. “These profiles create that uninterrupted look that feels modern and spacious,” he explains. "They’re particularly effective in extensions, new builds and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-loft-conversion">loft conversions </a>where clean lines are part of the design brief."</p><p>Alternatively, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-a-shadow-gap">shadow gap skirting</a> is a modern design feature that can be used instead of a traditional bulky board to create a minimalist appearance. The effect is subtle but striking – a small, recessed line at the base of the wall that makes it appear to 'float'.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-to-balance-proportions-and-ceiling-height"><span>How to balance proportions and ceiling height</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2244px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:141.44%;"><img id="bCsUzAT9qSxdcgrfp4Yuzh" name="blue living room skirting board colour ideas.jpg" alt="blue living room with matching skirting board" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bCsUzAT9qSxdcgrfp4Yuzh.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2244" height="3174" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Getting the proportions right is all about balance. Taller skirting boards suit high ceilings, while lower profiles help smaller rooms feel open and well-scaled.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Ercol)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Whatever the age or style of your home, the proportion of your skirting boards can make or break the overall look. Too tall and they can overwhelm a small room; too short and they risk looking unfinished. Getting the balance right will inform how the eye reads the space.</p><p>“Taller skirting boards visually anchor high ceilings, giving a sense of structure, while narrower skirting stops smaller rooms from feeling boxed in,” explains Scott Godfrey.</p><p>A useful rule of thumb, adds Thomas Goodwin, is that <strong>the height of a skirting board should be roughly one eighteenth of the overall ceiling height. </strong>“In modern homes with an average ceiling height of 2.4 metres, the most common skirting size is around 119mm, but it can go as high as 144mm depending on the proportions of the room,” he adds.</p><p>Christian Ebbing, product manager at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://parador.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Parador</a>, agrees that proportion plays a crucial role in maintaining harmony. “The height of a skirting board can alter the perception of space,” he says. “Higher boards add formality and grandeur; slimmer boards create a sense of openness and modernity. Matching proportions to ceiling height and window scale helps maintain visual balance.”</p><p>If in doubt, test it out. Buy a short length of your preferred profile and temporarily fix it to the wall to see how it feels in context. It’s a small step that can save you from choosing a design that looks perfect on paper but awkward in reality.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="should-you-mix-skirting-board-styles-in-the-same-house-2">Should you mix skirting board styles in the same house?</h2><p>You can, but experts recommend treading carefully. Stick to a consistent profile shape and finish throughout communal areas, then adjust the height subtly in smaller rooms if needed. Maintaining visual balance across spaces is key to avoiding a disjointed look.</p><h2 id="can-shadow-gap-or-flush-skirting-boards-be-retrofitted-2">Can shadow-gap or flush skirting boards be retrofitted?</h2><p>Not really. Flush skirting sits in a recess at the base of the wall, which is easier to plan into a new build or extension than to add later. Retrofitting these styles can be costly and messy, so they’re best considered early in the design stage.</p><h2 id="should-skirting-boards-match-the-wall-colour-or-contrast-with-it-2">Should skirting boards match the wall colour or contrast with it?</h2><p>Both approaches can work beautifully. Matching tones create a seamless, contemporary feel, while contrasting colours frame the room and draw attention to architectural details. Gareth Davies from Classic Interiors recommends trying a deeper tone on the skirting to add subtle definition without overpowering the scheme.</p><p>If you’re renovating, you might be tempted to start <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-remove-skirting-boards">removing skirting boards</a> altogether, but it’s worth pausing before you do. In period homes, original skirting often carries character and proportion that’s difficult to replicate. Where possible, restore rather than replace. If the boards are beyond saving, consider <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/diy/skirting-over-skirting">skirting over skirting</a>, a practical solution that avoids damaging old plasterwork.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/home-improvements/matching-skirting-boards</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Learn how to match your skirting board to your interior style, with expert advice on getting proportions, profiles and finishes just right for your home ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">D2EETWGy8xoqFkqXJ9BXN8</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/v5KtNFYN5dWNjPZpK4jLre-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Improvements]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Gabriella Dyson ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/v5KtNFYN5dWNjPZpK4jLre-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[The Curious Department]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A bold, elegant hallway featuring teal and blush floral wallpaper with a dark wood skirting board. A teal velvet chair with brass legs and matching curtain adds modern sophistication.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A bold, elegant hallway featuring teal and blush floral wallpaper with a dark wood skirting board. A teal velvet chair with brass legs and matching curtain adds modern sophistication.]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/v5KtNFYN5dWNjPZpK4jLre-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Thousands of homes hit by botched Government insulation jobs ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>A damning new report has found that nearly all homes fitted with external wall <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/insulation">insulation </a>under government energy schemes could now be at risk of damp and mould.</p><p>The National Audit Office (NAO) uncovered widespread failures in workmanship and compliance across the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/Great-British-Insulation-Scheme">Great British Insulation Scheme</a> (GBIS).</p><p>The government has promised swift action, but campaigners warn that thousands of families are already living with the consequences of poor installation and weak oversight.</p><h2 id="widespread-installation-failures-2">Widespread installation failures </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.67%;"><img id="3EwCByF546n9GsHZGKdmMH" name="house viewing checklist damp.jpg" alt="walls showing signs of damp" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3EwCByF546n9GsHZGKdmMH.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="1600" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Government schemes have been shown to leave homes at risk of damp and mould</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The NAO report reveals major quality problems in homes retrofitted under <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/ECO4">ECO4 </a>and GBIS, with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/external-wall-insulation">external </a>and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/internal-wall-insulation-guide">internal wall insulation</a> accounting for thousands of non-compliant installations.</p><p>TrustMark, the government-endorsed quality scheme, informed the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) that high levels of work were substandard, posing risks ranging from poor insulation performance to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/damp">damp </a>and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/mould-in-house">mould</a>.</p><p>“The urgent priority for government should be to ensure faults are rectified and households have the warm, safe and healthy homes they were promised,” said Adam Scorer, Chief Executive of National Energy Action (NEA).</p><p>“People should have peace of mind that work in their homes is completed to a high standard, and where it is not, mistakes are corrected quickly at no cost to them.”</p><p>According to the report, 28,000 homes have had external wall insulation installed, representing just 3% of all measures, yet these are responsible for the majority of quality complaints and failures identified by TrustMark.</p><h2 id="suspected-fraud-and-oversight-failures-2">Suspected fraud and oversight failures</h2><p>The report also highlights suspected fraud, with some retrofit businesses overclaiming for work not carried out or not meeting required standards.</p><p>TrustMark notified DESNZ of the issue in April 2024, warning that undetected fraud meant fewer households benefitted from the schemes than reported.</p><p>The NAO concluded that weak oversight and fragmented responsibility between DESNZ, Ofgem, and private contractors allowed both poor quality work and fraud to go unchecked.</p><p>The watchdog said the government’s monitoring system had “limited information and few levers” to prevent widespread failure.</p><h2 id="government-response-and-next-steps-2">Government response and next steps </h2><p>The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said it has taken immediate action to ensure that all affected homes are identified and remediated.</p><p>“Installers responsible for this substandard work will be forced to fix it and households should not be asked to pay,” said a DESNZ spokesperson, echoing the government’s position in a recent statement.</p><p>DESNZ added that it is reviewing how retrofitting schemes are managed to strengthen consumer protections and prevent future fraud.</p><p>“Effective insulation remains vital to tackling fuel poverty and cutting emissions - but these failures show that delivery must match ambition,” added Adam Scorer of NEA.</p><p>With over 300,000 homes upgraded under ECO4 and GBIS combined, ministers now face mounting pressure to prove that taxpayer-funded retrofits are both safe and genuinely energy-efficient.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/insulation/thousands-of-homes-hit-by-botched-government-insulation-jobs</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Watchdog finds external wall insulations leave most homes at risk of damp and mould, leading calls for urgent action to fix poor-quality retrofits ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">LfTT4K8PGdDuXmKNDQFg84</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dCJwVSWcyuy5G7DGToT2oj-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Insulation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dCJwVSWcyuy5G7DGToT2oj-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[U.J Alexander/Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[scaffolded exterior of house with exterior wall insulation being added]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[scaffolded exterior of house with exterior wall insulation being added]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dCJwVSWcyuy5G7DGToT2oj-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Why you should never ignore wet loft insulation – discover common causes and potential solutions ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If you have discovered wet loft insulation in your roof space you are likely to be wondering how it got that way. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/insulation">Insulation</a> is so important in keeping your home at a comfortable temperature, as well as helping to reduce household bills, but there are cases where its effectiveness can be compromised.</p><p>There are several reasons why loft insulation gets wet or holds on to excess moisture. Understanding what these are, finding the culprit of your particular problem and getting to grips with how to prevent it from reoccurring is vital if you want the insulation to do the job it is there for.</p><p>We reached out to the experts to discover the leading causes of wet loft insulation and what can be done to both fix the issue as well as the steps you can take to stop it from happening in the first place.</p><h2 id="why-is-my-loft-insulation-wet-2">Why is my loft insulation wet?</h2><p>If you notice your loft insulation feels damp to the touch, or is visibly wet (look for dark patches, mould and areas of sagging), you are likely to be pretty concerned. There are two main reasons why this issue might have occurred: condensation and leaks in the roof structure.</p><p>"The most common cause of widespread dampness in loft insulation is internal <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/condensation-in-loft">condensation in lofts</a> – not necessarily a roof leak," reveals Samuel Hitch, MD at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.buyinsulationonline.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Buy Insulation Online</a>. "This occurs when warm, moist air generated inside the house (from cooking, washing, etc.) escapes into the cold loft space."</p><p>"Condensation is almost always the root cause and poorly installed insulation can create this effect," adds Zaeem Chaudhary, director and chartered architectural technologist (MCIAT) at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://acdesignsolution.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AC Design Solution</a>. "That's why modern buildings tend to use warm roof construction or cavity walls rather than cold decks and hybrid roof systems."</p><p>"Condensation presents as diffuse dampness across broad areas of the insulation or roof deck, often worsening during cold, dry weather when the temperature difference between the house and the loft is greatest" adds Samuel Hitch.</p><p>The good news is that once you have pinned down the root cause of your wet loft insulation, there are steps you can take to put the problem right.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-causes-loft-condensation"><span>What causes loft condensation?</span></h3><p>With condensation being the leading cause of wet loft insulation, it is important to understand why it occurs and what can be done to prevent it. The first issue to be aware of is poor or compromised <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/ventilation">ventilation</a>.</p><p>"Continuous ventilation is mandatory,' picks up Samuel. "UK Building Regulations guidance requires continuous cross-ventilation in cold pitched roofs to disperse moisture vapour before it can condense. Effective moisture control hinges on maintaining two specific air gaps: eaves intake and rafter void.</p><p>"When it comes to eaves intake, an air intake equivalent to a continuous 25mm deep slot must be maintained at the eaves," further explains Samuel. "Purpose-made eaves vents or baffles are often required to achieve this.</p><p>"For the rafter void, a minimum 50mm continuous air path must be maintained between the top of the insulation and the underside of the roof deck or membrane to allow air to flow unimpeded from the eaves to the ridge.</p><p>"Installing deep layers of insulation (often around 270mm to meet thermal targets) can inadvertently block the critical 25mm eaves vent or the 50mm air path if installation trays or baffles are not correctly used," adds Samuel.</p><p>Finally, in some cases, vapour control layer (VCL) failure can be to blame.</p><p>"If the VCL, which should be on the warm side of the insulation, is missing, misaligned, or not meticulously sealed at all overlaps and penetrations, warm, moisture-laden air bypasses it and reaches the cold void, leading to interstitial condensation," explains Samuel Hitch.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="xiTtPo7TayirqURAAWd8w3" name="GettyImages-638833990" alt="man in blue overalls installing loft insulation" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xiTtPo7TayirqURAAWd8w3.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>When installing your loft insulation it is vital to bear in mind the need for good ventilation</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-are-the-signs-of-a-leaking-roof"><span>What are the signs of a leaking roof?</span></h3><p>Wet loft insulation is not always caused by condensation and it is important to be aware of this – an undetected leak could be to blame. The signs of this are very different to the kind of wetness you can expect from condensation.</p><p>"Leakage typically causes heavy, localised saturation directly beneath a defect, for example a missing tile, damaged flashing, or plumbing leak," explains Samuel Hitch. "It may also correlate with periods of heavy rain."</p><p>If you suspect a leak is causing your loft insulation to get wet, look out for missing or worn out flashing, slipped roof tiles, blocked gutters or damage to your chimney. The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/roof-leak-repair-costs">roof leak repair costs</a> you incur will be well worth it to protect the rest of your home.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="8KvTkmeZNrwCCTJzHGrVrg" name="GettyImages-2160302944" alt="clay roof with missing roof tile" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8KvTkmeZNrwCCTJzHGrVrg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>In some cases, a leaking roof can cause loft insulation to become wet</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-happens-when-loft-insulation-gets-wet"><span>What happens when loft insulation gets wet?</span></h3><p>When loft insulation gets wet, its performance is affected and it could, if left in this state, cause issues with the structure of your loft, including <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/damp">damp</a>, rotten rafters and mould.</p><p>"Insulation traps air in tiny pockets," explains Zaeem Chaudhary. "Air doesn't conduct heat well, so it slows heat loss. When it gets wet, water fills those air pockets and water conducts heat about 20 times better than insulation. Research shows that just 20% moisture can cut the performance of insulation by half. The insulation also gets heavy, compresses, and loses its structure."</p><p>"Wetness destroys thermal performance," reasserts Samuel Hitch. "Regardless of the material, water dramatically increases its thermal conductivity, effectively causing the wet insulation to stop resisting heat flow and rendering it thermally ineffective."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-are-some-types-of-insulation-more-prone-to-damp-than-others"><span>Are some types of insulation more prone to damp than others?</span></h3><p>While ensuring good ventilation and keeping on top of roof maintenance are both good ways to ensure your insulation stays dry, it is interesting to note that the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-roof-insulation">type of roof insulation</a> you choose can play a part too.</p><p>"The common fibrous materials perform differently: stone wool (Rockwool) is highly moisture-resistant, retains its structure when wet, and has good drying potential," explains Samuel Hitch. "Glass wool (Fibreglass) is less resistant, can easily get damp, and may promote mould growth, as well as suffering from severe thermal loss if left saturated."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-should-wet-loft-insulation-be-dried-out-or-removed"><span>Should wet loft insulation be dried out or removed?</span></h3><p>Once you have discovered wet loft insulation, what should your next steps be? If you act quickly, it might not be necessary to look into <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/insulating-a-roof">insulating a roof</a> all over again.</p><p>"Immediately identify and fix the source of the moisture – most likely a leak or ventilation failure," begins Samuel Hitch.</p><p>"Next, carefully remove wet mineral wool and dry it thoroughly in a warm, well-ventilated area. If the dried material is structurally compromised, retains a persistent odour, or has suffered chronic saturation, it must be replaced to protect the structural integrity of the roof timbers.</p><p>"Finally, use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the surrounding loft structure," adds Samuel.</p><h2 id="shop-dehumidifiers-2">Shop dehumidifiers</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="5b0f5320-3283-48e7-8ab2-7eb21ed2e7cf"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/HUMSURE-Dehumidifier-Dehumidifiers-Continuous-Apartments/dp/B0BVM14616/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?" data-model-name="HUMSURE Dehumidifier 16L" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DrJfoawAVxiD9uJw7WBuhM.jpg' alt="Homsure dehumidifer"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">HUMSURE Dehumidifier 16L</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This well-priced dehumidifier is the ideal size for drying out a damp loft plus, once your insulation is sorted, it has a handy laundry drying mode that should ensure your wet washing doesn't cause damp elsewhere in the house. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="8d42769c-f690-411e-83dd-d13a7b0db522"> <a href="https://www.robertdyas.co.uk/daewoo-12l-dehumidifier-2?" data-model-name="Daewoo 12L Dehumidifier" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BjJ5DgibsbvftsuEpZtoxJ.jpg' alt="12L dehumidifier from Robert Dyas"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Daewoo 12L Dehumidifier</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Capable of removing up to 12 litres of moisture daily, this effective, yet compact, dehumidifier has a 2.5l water tank and will automatically shut off when the tank needs emptying. It also has a timer meaning you can switch it on and forget about it. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="42d4cfbe-beb7-47d1-bcc4-c65af970c1d7"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/meaco-12l-low-energy-dehumidifier-and-air-purifier/5060216550114_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Meaco 12L Low Energy Dehumidifier and Air Purifier" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fN3YcanP7cFEDKsLoXGRsm.jpg' alt="Meaco dehumidifier"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Meaco 12L Low Energy Dehumidifier and Air Purifier</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>The perfect dehumidifier for those looking for a low-energy appliance, this offering from Meaco uses just 157 watts of electricity – a cost of just 5p per hour. In addition, it can also be run as an air purifier during warmer months. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="will-boarding-a-loft-stop-insulation-getting-damp-2">Will boarding a loft stop insulation getting damp?</h2><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-board-a-loft">Boarding a loft</a> is not only a great way to transform it into extra storage space – it can also add value to your home as well as ensuring the area stays moisture free.</p><p>'To prevent damp loft insulation, it’s recommended that you board your loft, which helps trap heat,' explains Andy Simms of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.mybuilder.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">MyBuilder</a>.</p><p>It helps to understand how moisture gets into your loft in the first place.</p><p>'Moisture enters the loft primarily through convective air movement –warm air escaping through unsealed gaps, cracks, and service penetrations in the ceiling,' explains Samuel Hitch. 'This transports far more moisture than slow diffusion through solid materials.'</p><p>'Daily activities create moisture,' adds Zaeem Chaudhary. 'The biggest contributors are drying clothes indoors, long showers and boiling pans without lids. Even breathing and houseplants add up.'</p><p>If you are ready to turn your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/loft-conversion-ideas">loft conversion ideas</a> into reality, be sure to discuss insulation with your builder or loft conversion specialist to ensure your newly formed space is neither too hot or too cold and is a pleasure to spend time in all year long.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/insulation/wet-loft-insulation</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ If you have found wet insulation in your loft, don't panic – our guide explains the steps you'll need to take to fix the problem ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">otvAiupfwLF9JeUzYggNs9</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ExN4KndvkiZLxxXtPJP3NZ-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Insulation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Natasha Brinsmead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ExN4KndvkiZLxxXtPJP3NZ-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[loft insulation with signs of damp and mould]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[loft insulation with signs of damp and mould]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ExN4KndvkiZLxxXtPJP3NZ-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Don't cut corners and always measure twice — some of the best advice on offer to avoid making staircase mistakes ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Staircase mistakes aren't always that easy to cover up. Unlike a shoddy paint job where some sanding and re-painting might be enough to hide an error, get your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/staircase-design-guide">staircase design</a> wrong and you might find yourself taking more than a leap of faith hoping you can fix the problem.</p><p>That said, mistakes can often be avoided, so along with the experts, we're here to explain the main staircase mistakes you could make, so you can stay one step ahead and make sure your staircase is perfect in every way.</p><p>From measuring through to budgeting, here's how to make sure your staircase mistakes don't ruin your hallway or anywhere else in your home.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-measuring-incorrectly"><span>1. Measuring incorrectly</span></h3><p>When selecting the best type of staircase for your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/self-build">self build</a>, renovation or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-loft-conversion">loft conversion</a>, there's a host of measuring that needs to take place before you place an order.</p><p>"One of the most common errors is failing to account for the finished floor levels at both the top and bottom of the staircase," notes Mike Edwards, sales and project developer at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.completestairsystems.co.uk/" target="_blank">Complete Stair Systems</a>.</p><p>"Measuring from subfloor to subfloor might suffice if both levels are identical, but any discrepancy can result in a staircase that’s too short or too tall – compromising not just aesthetics, but safety and structural integrity," he warns.</p><p>"Another frequent mistake is measuring from floor to ceiling rather than floor to floor," he adds. "This can lead to uneven risers, and in worst-case scenarios, a staircase that simply doesn’t fit."</p><p>The other consequence of taking the wrong measurements? You could end up with too few, or too many essential staircase parts and your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/new-staircase-costs">staircase costs</a> could escalate.</p><p>“We often see customers who have taken incorrect measurements for their staircases, meaning that they order the wrong number of parts or the staircase fittings don’t quite fit the space," confirms Lucie Levesley, director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.jacksonwoodturners.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jackson Woodturners</a></p><p>"For example, when working out how many spindles are needed on a stairs and landing, you need to treat all the measurements separately, don’t just add them up. Combining the figures will give you the wrong figures, leaving you with too many or too few spindles for the project.”</p><p>“You also don’t calculate spindles on a staircase with the angled measurement; you need to convert this to the going measurement and use this length instead," advises Lucie, suggest that homewners use online guides such as the Jackson Woodurners <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.jacksonwoodturners.co.uk/spindle-spacing-calculator" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">spindle calculator</a> to work out the spindle spacing and number needed.</p><p>The best advice when it comes to measuring for your staircase?</p><p>“‘Measure twice, cut once’, is the saying all joiners know, and for good reason," says Kenny Macfarlane, managing director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://handrailcreations.co.uk/" target="_blank">Handrail Creations</a>.</p><p>"Accurate measurements and planning is essential when designing and installing a staircase. The staircase must fit the space and flow in the home, both functionally and aesthetically. Generic measurements won’t suffice," says Kenny. "Bespoke planning is essential."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-failing-to-plan-ahead"><span>2. Failing to plan ahead</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="2onCdUcndibdG3AejA9Yd7" name="staircase_Forge Oak & Black 3" alt="oak staircase with metal spindles carpeted in grey" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2onCdUcndibdG3AejA9Yd7.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Take time to confirm all the different staircase parts will work together before you complete your design</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jackson Woodturners)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Of course, a common mistake when undertaking any home improvement project is to end up behind schedule, which can lead to you rushing decisions. While this doesn't always matter, picking the wrong wallpaper is one thing, opening your door every evening to a staircase that isn't safe or doesn't fit is a much bigger and costlier problem to resolve.</p><p>“Things tend to go wrong when renovators rush into a staircase project without proper research," says Lucie Levesley. "Always decide on the finished style and look of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/modern-staircase-ideas">staircase ideas</a> before you start ordering parts or installing it, and always discuss your requirements with the person who will be fitting the staircase. This ensures you have all the correct components in place to match the fittings you choose.</p><p>“For example, the balustrade or handrail required will be impacted by the type of spindles chosen. Spindles come in a variety of styles and measurements, from wrought iron, to wood and even glass panels, each with different measurements and specifications.”</p><p>Don't choose one part without checking that all the different elements will work together both on a functional and aesthetic level.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-not-checking-legal-regulations"><span>3. Not checking legal regulations</span></h3><p>While practicality and the visual appearance of your staircase matter, there are also serious implications if you don't think of other matters too warn the experts.</p><p>"Perhaps the gravest mistake is neglecting <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/structure/approved-document-k">staircase building regulations</a>," says Mike Edwards. "Even if your project isn’t subject to formal building control, any staircase installation or modification must comply with current standards. Failure to do so could lead to legal repercussions and may even hinder future property sales."</p><p>"Consulting professionals is essential when installing a staircase," confirms Kenny Macfarlane. "Compliance needs to be ensured from the earliest design stages of the staircase, as they must meet strict building regulations covering tread depth, riser height, handrail placement and balustrade spacing."</p><p>"Balusters (otherwise known as spindles), should be positioned so that the gap between them is no more than 99mm," expands Lucie Levesley. "You can test this by passing a 100mm sphere through the space, and if the sphere can’t pass through, the spacing is correct. This an important safety feature when planning your staircase, especially for those with children and pets."</p><p>And, while there is no legal requirement for the width of your staircase, there is when it comes to handrail height.</p><p>“UK domestic properties should have a minimum handrail height of 900mm for both stairs and no higher than 1,000mm," says Lucie. "The handrail height on a landing should be the same as it is on a staircase, 900mm to 1000mm above floor level, rather than the pitch of the stairs.</p><p>"I often see people mistakenly measure from the pitch of the stairs by mistake, which could mean their staircases aren’t up to code and are more hazardous,” she warns.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="ZE2Fv4wBwcpu3GM2LfiqYF" name="staircase mistakes_Handrail height measurement" alt="diagram showing stairs with pitch line and handrail height" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZE2Fv4wBwcpu3GM2LfiqYF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Making sure you understand staircase legislation is an easily avoidable mistake</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jackson Woodturners)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-cutting-corners"><span>4. Cutting corners</span></h3><p>By this, we don't mean literally cutting corners off your treads, but more in the sense of making purchasing decisions you think might save you money. The chances are they will end up being false economy, warn the experts.</p><p>"Cutting corners on quality is a mistake many people make when choosing their staircase – not realising the impact the staircase makes as an architectural focal point of the home," says Kenny Macfarlane.</p><p>"The devil is in the detail, and while many people opt for keeping the cost low, often opting for DIY kits or cheaper alternatives means more cost down the line to replace the components.</p><p>“Staircases that are not made with quality materials and installed by professionals can not only look unfinished, but can end up cracking and wearing prematurely," he warns.</p><p>"Investing in a bespoke, professionally fitted staircase is always worth it for longevity, peace of mind, and aesthetic appeal. People are often surprised by the cost of a handrail and balustrade, so when the stairs are designed for purpose from the start, often you’ll save money – even with a continuous handrail and no newel posts.”</p><h2 id="shop-these-staircase-finishing-touches-2">Shop these staircase finishing touches</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="fe4affd5-7ab7-4c6b-a990-1099b8a234e2"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/beatrice-striped-stair-runner-1000254828?" data-model-name="Beatrice Striped Textured Wool Stair Runner" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uNmKeekgnr4h5cVWsdmDA7.jpg' alt="Beatrice Striped Textured Wool Stair Runner"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Stair Runner</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Beatrice Striped Textured Wool Stair Runner</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Protect your new staircase and reduce noise with this brightly coloured stair runner</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="115d5786-4e17-4fef-a83e-87b050765a9b"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/WILLED-Wireless-Rechargeable-Magnetic-Wardrobe/dp/B0DNJNGKF2?th=1" data-model-name="Willed Stair Lights, Wireless Motion Sensor Night Light" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NWai6yXZo5uNKga7TZqegE.jpg' alt="Willed Stair Lights, Wireless Motion Sensor Night Light, Usb Rechargeable Sensor Lights Indoor (auto/on/off), Magnetic Stick on Lights for Wardrobe, Hallway, Stairs, Bedroom (4 Pack)"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Wireless Lights</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Willed Stair Lights, Wireless Motion Sensor Night Light</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Light the way with these wireless rechargeable stair lights that can be attached to your wall</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="4048c132-8b24-40f6-98fc-8940a7e7002c"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/polished-brass-stair-rod-ball-finials-1000230072?" data-model-name="Stair Rod With Ball Finials" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Zr5b93jNn4eVJsZJcbaJoc.jpg' alt="Stair Rod With Ball Finials"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Stair Rods</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Stair Rod With Ball Finials</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Add detail to your runner with these stylish stair rods available in a range of finishes</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-choosing-style-over-substance"><span>5. Choosing style over substance</span></h3><p>Although it's easy to get carried away when choosing a staircase that will bring your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/hallway-ideas">hallway ideas</a> to life, getting the balance right between style and substance is key.</p><p>"While hardwood treads may look stunning, they’re not always the most practical choice for example - especially for older residents, children, or pets," says Mike Edwards. "Carpeted treads offer a softer surface in the event of a fall and provide better grip for paws and feet alike."</p><p>That said, making sure the design works with the rest of your home is also paramount. While your staircase is a feature in its own right, cohesive interior design will always result in a better looking home. Even if your overall style falls more into the eclectic category, considered choices will always carry more weight than not.</p><p>"Without expert guidance, homeowners often choose staircases that clash with the rest of the property," agrees Mike Edwards. "Closed risers, for example, may block natural light in a dark hallway - a missed opportunity for brightness and openness."</p><p>Keen to put your right foot forward with your staircase? While staircase mistakes can apply wherever you're installing them, make sure you follow the additional advice in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/loft-conversion-stairs">loft conversion stairs</a>, which can often face additional difficulties in terms of space and size.</p><p>And, once your new staircase is in place, if you've opted for a simple unfinished wooden design, check out these <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/painted-stairs-ideas">painted stairs ideas</a> to bring your new walkway to life.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/hallway/staircase-mistakes</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Staircase mistakes can be costly, time-consuming, dangerous and inconvenient. We explore the main ones you could make so you can avoid them ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">PoQWqQR59X7yEdmfMJNn9f</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DTF2AqvpQqbjRTJMKBV6VY-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Hallway]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ sarah.harley@futurenet.com (Sarah Harley) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Sarah Harley ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DTF2AqvpQqbjRTJMKBV6VY-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Natasha Lazaridi/Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[woman sat on staircase with paint roller in hand mid hallway renovation]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[woman sat on staircase with paint roller in hand mid hallway renovation]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DTF2AqvpQqbjRTJMKBV6VY-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Is it time to rethink skirting boards? Alternatives that get the designer seal of approval ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Skirting boards have framed our rooms for generations, keeping walls safe from scuffs and giving every space a perfectly neat edge. But with modern interiors leaning towards cleaner lines and sleeker finishes, this familiar feature is starting to take a step back in the world of design.</p><p>Interior designers and homeowners are now looking for fresh ways to finish that all-important wall-to-floor junction and a new wave of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/skirting-board-ideas">skirting board</a> alternatives is proving that you can have a neat, practical finish without a traditional trim.</p><p>From smooth plaster edges to contemporary wall panels, we’ve rounded up some of the most inspiring ideas to try at home.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-opt-for-a-stylish-shadow-gap-instead"><span>1. Opt for a stylish shadow gap instead</span></h2><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">VISIT THE HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOW</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' ><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="ZNwW5RjBiyuaif9wm7asVc" name="Homebuilding_SE_7116 (3) (1)" caption="" alt="A couple talking to an expert at the Advice Centre at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZNwW5RjBiyuaif9wm7asVc.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="" height="" attribution="" endorsement="" class="pinterest-pin-exclude"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="fancy-box__body-text">Need more advice or inspiration for your project? Get two free tickets to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/hbrwebsite" target="_blank">Homebuilding & Renovating Show.</a></p></div></div><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2844px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="EVoydZBVyYF5ePNV89p6pb" name="skirting-board-ideas-purchase.jpg" alt="contemporary living room with shadow gaps" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EVoydZBVyYF5ePNV89p6pb.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2844" height="1600" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A slim shadow gap replaces traditional skirting in this contemporary living space, creating the illusion of floating walls and enhancing the room’s clean, sculptural lines.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Simon Burt)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you're after a truly contemporary look, consider skipping skirting boards altogether in favour of a sleek <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-a-shadow-gap">shadow gap</a>.</p><p>“Shadow gaps are recessed gaps at the bottom of walls that prevent the need for traditional skirting, which can be bulky and dated,” explains Mark Irving, building and renovation expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.buildandplumb.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Build & Plumb</a>. "They’re most often seen in high-end interiors, as they create a minimal, shadowed edge that makes walls appear to float.'</p><p>But before committing to a shadow gap design, it’s worth noting that this is a detail that demands precision. It should be planned early in the build or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/renovating-a-house-complete-guide">renovation</a> process and fitted by an experienced professional to ensure those clean, perfectly even lines.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-plaster-your-walls-from-ceiling-to-floor-for-a-seamless-finish"><span>2. Plaster your walls from ceiling-to-floor for a seamless finish</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="zhANBCspXi8J8jkmZAbNBU" name="Industville" alt="A rustic, softly lit corner featuring a wooden bench with textured cushions and a wool throw. The warm glow of a pleated wall sconce enhances the plastered wall’s natural, tactile finish" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/zhANBCspXi8J8jkmZAbNBU.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Plastering from ceiling to floor creates a softly textured finish and helps make a room feel much more expansive.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Industville)</span></figcaption></figure><p>For the ultimate minimalist look, some homeowners are choosing to plaster their entire walls instead of fitting skirting boards.</p><p>“Running plaster or drywall right down to the floor offers a seamless finish,” says Sue Taylor, director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://completeconstructionproducts.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Complete Construction Products</a>. “It works best with very even floors and precise workmanship, but it keeps the lines super clean and minimal. If you get it right, it can completely change the feel of a room and make it look far more upscale than it actually is.”</p><p>Mark Irving, from Build & Plumb, agrees and adds that this approach can also make a room feel more open: “Skirting boards aren’t always necessary in a modern and minimalist interior, as they can be quite bulky and make the space feel cluttered,” he says. “A skirting-free design can create a seamless and sleek appearance, helping it to feel more spacious.”</p><p>That said, this pared-back detail comes with a few challenges. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-plaster-a-wall">Plastering a wall </a>to the floor removes the protective barrier that skirting usually provides, leaving the wall base more vulnerable to scuffs and knocks from vacuums or furniture. Professional plasterers also tend to leave a slight gap above the floor to stop moisture rising through the plaster, which is particularly important on ground floors, where humidity and subtle movement can lead to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-repair-cracks-in-walls">plaster cracking</a> over time.</p><p>Because of this, full plaster walls are best reserved for upper floors or low-traffic areas where walls are less likely to take daily wear and tear. When executed well, though, it delivers a beautifully refined, architectural look that designers love.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-install-wall-panelling-down-to-the-floor"><span>3. Install wall panelling down to the floor</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:830px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:145.18%;"><img id="MZmRVNAMfP5osdZh3RmYod" name="wow-factor-wall-panelling-MZmRVNAMfP5osdZh3RmYod.jpg" alt="HBR227.moodboard.8_naturewall_arborelle_natural_oak_fluted_wall_panel_109_99_8503080" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wow-factor-wall-panelling-MZmRVNAMfP5osdZh3RmYod.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="830" height="1205" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Wall panelling that runs right to the floor is a stylish alternative to traditional skirting. </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: IMAGE: JAMES MERRELL)</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/wall-panelling-ideas">Wall panelling</a> is having a real moment in interior design. When taken from ceiling to floor, it creates a smart, continuous finish that feels bespoke and beautifully put together.</p><p>It’s not just about looks, either. “Because panels sit higher up the wall than skirting boards, they can be useful for covering small marks or imperfections,” says Mark Irving, from Build & Plumb. “They also provide an extra layer of thermal insulation, helping rooms feel warmer.”</p><p>Whether you choose classic tongue-and-groove, simple painted MDF or rich timber veneers, wall panelling has the power to add instant texture and interest to a room. And as Stuart Murray, founder of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://retrovintageonline.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Retrovintage</a>, points out, it can be practical too: “Wall-to-floor mouldings can create a fluid transition between surfaces, and they can even conceal wiring or include subtle LED strips for a soft, ambient glow.”</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="7da51f2f-d2f5-4a9b-a1b7-197712aac371"> <a href="https://www.naturewall.com/products/slatwall-essential-acoustic-oak-panel" data-model-name="Slatwall Acoustic Oak Lightweight Panel - 2.4m" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/23fdQKU56RTx5mjfKgXDvT.jpg' alt="Slatwall Acoustic Oak Lightweight Panel - 2.4m"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <span class='featured__label horizontal__label'>Get the look</span> <div class="featured__title">Slatwall Acoustic Oak Lightweight Panel - 2.4m</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Lightweight and budget-friendly, these slatted wall panels are ideal for minimalist interiors or first-time DIYers seeking an affordable, design-led feature wall.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-try-tiled-skirting-for-a-low-maintenance-choice"><span>4. Try tiled skirting for a low maintenance choice</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.65%;"><img id="U8YqYsGz24VoEdmTCCt3HH" name="Baked Tile Co, Tropical White Stone" alt="A bathroom with small white stone floor tiles" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/U8YqYsGz24VoEdmTCCt3HH.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="1333" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Extending floor tiles up the wall creates a seamless, easy-clean edge that looks polished and modern.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tropical White Stone Tiles from <a href="https://www.bakedtiles.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Baked Tile Co, </a>)</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/tiled-skirting">Tiled skirting</a> is both a practical and good-looking choice, offering a simple way to give your room a polished, easy-care finish. Instead of fitting a separate skirting board, your floor tiles are extended a few centimetres up the wall to create a crisp, waterproof edge that ties the whole space together.</p><p>One of the major advantages of tiled skirting is that you can mop or steam clean right up to the edges without worrying about damaging painted woodwork. Once sealed, it’s virtually maintenance-free, as there’s no sanding, repainting or touch-ups required.</p><p>To keep the look cohesive, consider continuing the same tile up the wall, or introduce contrast with a darker base tile to subtly frame the space. Alternatively, large-format tiles are great for creating a smooth, uninterrupted line, while patterned or textured designs add a fun decorative twist.</p><p><strong>Top tip:</strong> Wondering whether to use <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/porcelain-vs-ceramic-tiles">porcelain or ceramic tiles</a> for your skirting? As a rule, ceramic tiles are ideal for hallways and living spaces, but because they’re slightly more porous, porcelain is the better pick for bathrooms and kitchens where water resistance is essential.</p><h2 id="shop-tiled-skirting-ideas-2">Shop tiled skirting ideas</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="8a425d9f-1b60-40f5-9034-bff5917a4f1e"> <a href="https://www.toppstiles.co.uk/flooring/luxury-vinyl-tiles/bathroom/pronto-carrick-oak-herringbone-luxury-vinyl-tile" data-model-name="Pronto™ Carrick Oak Herringbone Luxury Vinyl Tile" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HhHn6fFox3c9tvH6bTQNRk.jpg' alt="A dark brown, wood-effect plank tile on a white background"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Plank Style</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Pronto™ Carrick Oak Herringbone Luxury Vinyl Tile</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Luxury vinyl plank tiles such as these are usually the perfect height for skirting, sitting at around 12-15cm. Plus, they're quick and easy to install. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="44683673-f338-4f11-bfad-f03fe703e2f6"> <a href="https://capietra.com/victorian-style-wall-ceramic-cabbage-green-skirting?" data-model-name="Victorian Style™ Wall Ceramic Cabbage Green Skirting" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LmRh247x7hq4sdigPGC6Ud.jpg' alt="A glossy green ceramic skirting tile "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Traditional</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Victorian Style™ Wall Ceramic Cabbage Green Skirting</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>These tiles recreate the detailed layering of traditional mouldings and decorative borders with none of the maintenance. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="7422bd3b-7cba-4bfa-abdb-6e2d8dbcdefb"> <a href="https://yourtiles.com/products/yt21024724?currency=GBP&variant=49055868223778&utm_" data-model-name="Chatsworth Manor Side / Border Victorian Tile " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3fydB2NWfoMnvPiCYXutD7.jpg' alt="Chatsworth Manor Side / Border Victorian Tile 20cm X 20cm"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Decorative</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Chatsworth Manor Side / Border Victorian Tile </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Opt for something highly decorative – such as these Victorian-style border tiles – to make a bold statement. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-opt-for-a-sleek-metal-or-flush-profile"><span>5. Opt for a sleek metal or flush profile</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="WDfDsNfn8ELMC7evvZf8Mb" name="Benjamin Moore bedroom" alt="A soft pastel bedroom featuring a mint-green wall, pale pink bedding, and a chunky light blue knitted throw. A black and brass wall light hangs above a pink side table stacked with colourful books." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WDfDsNfn8ELMC7evvZf8Mb.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Paint a flush design the same colour as your walls and it’ll practically vanish.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you want the crisp lines of a modern home without <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-remove-skirting-boards">removing your skirting board</a> entirely, a metal or flush-profile trim is a good middle ground. These minimalist designs sit neatly where the wall meets the floor, creating a subtle edge that feels much more modern that most <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/skirting-boards">types of skirting.</a></p><p>Aluminium and stainless-steel profiles are especially popular, as they are available in brushed, powder-coated and anodised finishes and complement a wide range of interior styles. Their slimline design gives definition without distraction, so they’re also a great choice for high-traffic areas where moisture and wear might be concerns.</p><p>They're a sustainable choice too, as Thomas Goodman, property expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://myjobquote.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">MyJobQuote.co.uk</a> points out: "Aluminium can be repeatedly recycled for a variety of uses without losing its properties. Up to 95% less energy is used in recycling aluminium as opposed to producing it from raw materials."</p><p>If you prefer something that feels a touch softer, flush skirting is another great option. This approach uses a very slim, square-edged board that sits level with the wall, creating a subtle shadow line rather than a prominent trim. Painting it the same colour as the wall helps it disappear almost completely, giving you that clean, contemporary look while still protecting against the usual scuffs and knocks.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-use-built-in-storage-and-furniture-in-place-of-skirting"><span>6. Use built-in storage and furniture in place of skirting</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="8y9kJDM75WMxr2wChSeLJL" name="Landing Storage Ideas" alt="A stylish built-in storage nook painted in soft sage green fills a sloped-ceiling landing. Woven baskets are neatly tucked into cubby holes beneath a wooden bench, with more baskets displayed on a shelf above. A brass wall light adds warmth to the space." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8y9kJDM75WMxr2wChSeLJL.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Fitted furniture creates the same tidy edge with a much more bespoke feel.</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://chauncey.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chaunceys Timber Flooring</a>)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Fitted furniture can be a clever way to do away with the need for skirting altogether. Built-in wardrobes, shelving and media units often include their own plinths or recessed bases, which naturally create a clean line where the wall meets the floor.</p><p>This works especially well in bedrooms, living spaces or home offices, where fitted storage already plays a central role. When cabinetry runs wall to wall, it creates a sense of continuity and order, as there’s often no need for extra trim or detailing.</p><p>Beyond <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/fitted-wardrobes-vs-freestanding">fitted wardrobes</a>, the same principle can be applied anywhere that built-in storage forms part of your home’s architecture. The only thing to keep in mind is balance: too much built-in furniture can make a room feel cramped, so it’s best used on one or two key walls to keep the space feeling open.</p><p>If you decide that traditional skirting still deserves a place in your home, it’s worth getting the details right. From <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/cutting-skirting-boards">cutting skirting boards</a> to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-skirting-boards">painting skirting boards</a>, our expert guides cover every step. You can also explore fresh <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/skirting-board-colour-ideas">skirting board colour ideas </a>for a more design-led finish, or learn <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-scribe-skirting-boards">how to scribe skirting boards </a>like a pro to achieve that perfect fit.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/home-improvements/skirting-board-alternatives</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Tired of traditional skirting boards? From flush plaster walls to shadow-gap designs, we explore the modern alternatives designers love ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">kb6CkpEQTwLtYRAWMtaouQ</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rNHLS8ABMVURchq8EYhBaB-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Improvements]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Gabriella Dyson ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rNHLS8ABMVURchq8EYhBaB-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Industville]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A warm, softly lit hallway with layered beige walls featuring subtle arch detailing. A brass wall sconce and matching table lamp cast a gentle glow over a console table styled with books, vases, and dried flowers.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A warm, softly lit hallway with layered beige walls featuring subtle arch detailing. A brass wall sconce and matching table lamp cast a gentle glow over a console table styled with books, vases, and dried flowers.]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rNHLS8ABMVURchq8EYhBaB-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Scotland changes its EPC requirements, so how much does it now differ from the rest of the UK? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Scotland is updating the rules for Energy Performance Certificates (<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-an-epc">EPCs</a>), which show how energy-efficient buildings are.</p><p>The new regulations will come into force on 31 October 2026 and introduce redesigned certificates, new ratings, and improved digital systems.</p><p>These changes aim to help homeowners, tenants, and landlords make informed decisions while reducing energy use and emissions.</p><h2 id="what-s-changing-with-epcs-in-scotland-2">What’s changing with EPCs in Scotland?</h2><p>Scotland is overhauling how Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) work. The new Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/building-regulations">Regulations </a>2025 were laid before the Scottish Parliament on 10 October 2025.</p><p>EPCs are already used to show a home’s energy efficiency and carbon emissions when it’s for sale, rent, or newly built. The reform will introduce:</p><ul><li>New ratings for energy efficiency and heat retention.</li><li>Redesigned EPCs and Property Reports with clearer guidance for homeowners and tenants.</li><li>Improvements in the digital infrastructure, including a new cloud-based EPC Register.</li></ul><p>The goal? Make EPCs more accurate, user-friendly, and useful for lowering energy costs and emissions.</p><h2 id="how-scotland-s-epcs-will-differ-from-the-rest-of-the-uk-2">How Scotland’s EPCs will differ from the rest of the UK</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="vPkgK3QiTNZbNZMvxWVHxM" name="SAPCalcs_GettyImages-182700393.jpg" alt="EPC certificates with house keys on top" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vPkgK3QiTNZbNZMvxWVHxM.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Scottish homes will now have different EPC requirements to the rest of the UK</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tattywelshie/Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>While EPCs exist across the UK, Scotland is taking a slightly different path:</p><ul><li><strong>Heat Retention Rating:</strong> A new metric for homes, replacing or enhancing some older energy ratings.</li><li><strong>Calculation methods:</strong> Scotland is using new models (the Home Energy Model for domestic buildings and the Simplified Building Energy Model for non-domestic buildings) that differ from current UK methods.</li><li><strong>Property Reports:</strong> More detailed advice for homeowners on potential improvements, like <a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/insulation">insulation </a>or heating upgrades.</li><li><strong>Digital Register:</strong> Scotland is creating its own system for issuing and storing EPCs, while the UK will continue with its own system.</li></ul><p>The Scottish Government is still aiming for some alignment with the UK timetable to keep the EPC assessor market working smoothly across borders.</p><h2 id="preparing-for-the-changes-2">Preparing for the changes </h2><p>The Scottish Government is aiming to give enough time for homeowners to adjust to the changing EPC requirements. Between now and October 2026, the Scottish government say they will:</p><ul><li>Share full calculation methods and Property Reports.</li><li>Conduct final user testing to make EPCs easy to understand.</li><li>Launch a communications campaign for homeowners, landlords, agents, and assessors.</li><li>Approve and appoint Accredited Organisations to run EPC schemes under the new rules.</li></ul><p>This phased approach ensures the market is ready for the new standards without disruption.</p><h2 id="looking-ahead-2">Looking ahead</h2><p>These reforms are part of Scotland’s wider push for energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions.</p><p>Optional steps, like the Heat & Energy Efficiency Technical Suitability Assessment (HEETSA), may provide even more tailored advice for tricky-to-decarbonise buildings, like old tenements.</p><p>For homeowners, tenants, and landlords, the changes mean:</p><ul><li>Better guidance on improving energy efficiency.</li><li>Potentially lower energy bills.</li><li>Clearer, easier-to-understand EPCs that reflect modern standards.</li></ul><p>Scotland is aiming to take the lead in updating EPCs while still keeping some compatibility with the rest of the UK, aiming for a smoother energy-efficient future.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/eco-homes/energy/scotland-changes-its-epc-requirements-so-how-much-does-it-now-differ-from-the-rest-of-the-uk</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ From Oct 2026, Scottish homes get new EPC ratings, improved reports, and digital tools to help owners cut energy bills and boost efficiency ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">NxgUWPTER6V9qNxh6RH88k</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WJ6RPT67g4zdqfGWaATB7c-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sun, 19 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Energy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eco Homes]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WJ6RPT67g4zdqfGWaATB7c-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[EPC ratings next to a small house]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[EPC ratings next to a small house]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WJ6RPT67g4zdqfGWaATB7c-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Calm house, calm mind – 12 green living room ideas that bring peace and balance ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>There’s a reason why green living rooms are trending: this versatile shade works well for any mood you’re trying to create – whether it’s a calming zen space to relax in after work or a luxurious area you’re proud to host guests in.</p><p>The best part about green is that it goes with almost anything – from calming neutrals and natural wood textures to pops of bold colours – so you don’t necessarily need to get rid of your existing furniture if you’re planning to refresh your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/living-room-design">living room design</a>.</p><p>Looking for a little inspiration? We’ve rounded up 12 of our favourite ideas below, plus top tips from the experts on how to make them work in your own home.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-carry-the-colour-through-to-your-woodwork"><span>1. Carry the colour through to your woodwork</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="4ZMqxZRaZDz5PYhgEkmvsU" name="@plucked_interiors Green 03" alt="Green living room with a purple couch" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4ZMqxZRaZDz5PYhgEkmvsU.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>For a seamless look, paint your door the same colour as the walls</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: @plucked_interiors)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Don’t limit your green living room to just the walls – painting the doors and woodwork is a great way to carry the colour through and blend everything together seamlessly. This approach works particularly well with darker shades, where a contrasting white door might appear too harsh against the walls. It also has the added benefit of making the room feel larger.</p><p>When <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-wooden-doors">painting a wooden door</a>, never skip the undercoat, as this will ensure better adhesion and a smoother finish, advises Robin Antill, founder of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.leisurebuildings.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">1st Choice Leisure Buildings</a>. For panelled doors, always start with the edges, then the panels, followed by the verticals, and finally the horizontal strips.</p><p>Robin recommends choosing a semi-gloss or water-based satin paint, thanks to their fast-drying formula and ability to resist fingerprints, scuffs, and smudges. They also have less of an odour compared to other paints.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-mix-shades-of-green-and-blue-in-your-living-room"><span>2. Mix shades of green and blue in your living room</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="SU8TocVVjPx5ukHPLtk2Qi" name="Benjamin Moore Decorators White OC-149 and Kensington Green 710 from £20.75 per 0.94l (3).jpg" alt="Green living room with blue chairs and arched alcove with shelving" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SU8TocVVjPx5ukHPLtk2Qi.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Choose a green and blue with similar tones</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Since green and blue are next to each other on the colour wheel, they'll work well together in your living room. However, to help them blend effortlessly, you'll want to stick to the same tone, advises Faye Simons, Head of Interior Design and Trade at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://olivias.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Olivia's</a>.</p><p>"If you like sage, keep it cool and mix it with a dusky blue," she says. "If denim blue is your vibe, keep it warmer with a nice olive. Add natural and neutral textures to soften the look – light woods, linens and knits would work perfectly.</p><p>"If you want to create a high-impact, maximal look, use colour on the walls and furniture. But if you want a subtle nod to some colour, keep it simple with accessories, artwork and soft furnishings."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-paint-wall-panelling-a-soft-shade-of-green"><span>3. Paint wall panelling a soft shade of green</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="jF3fGdotTXgzKH87MxrA3Z" name="furniture_village_elphaba_fabric_3_seater_sofa" alt="Green living room with wood panelling" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jF3fGdotTXgzKH87MxrA3Z.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Wood panelling adds warmth to your green living room</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Furniture Village)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you're looking for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/wall-panelling-ideas">wall panelling ideas</a>, wooden designs pair beautifully with green, bringing a touch of nature into your living room and creating a cosy space – while also adding an extra layer of insulation.</p><p>Summa Costandi, Co-Founder at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://panelsbysofia.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Panels by Sofia</a>, says, "Heritage wall panels (such as tongue and groove, bead and butt, or Shaker style) are ideal for a traditional or country aesthetic, creating a timeless finish. Alternatively, ribbed and fluted designs are very on-trend and perfect for adding elegance to a room, using texture to achieve a sophisticated and stylish look."</p><p>While you can buy pre-painted panels, you'll save money by doing it yourself. Summa says that a matt, satin or gloss finish all work well, and recommends applying multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat to avoid drips and ensure a smooth result.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-add-splashes-of-yellow-to-a-green-living-room-scheme"><span>4. Add splashes of yellow to a green living room scheme</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="Qof2FSndMYes6U28ZXg58M" name="Benjamin Moore, Citron 2024-30, Cushing Green HC-125, from £20.75 per 0.94L.jpg" alt="Green living room with pops of yellow in the archway and cushion" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Qof2FSndMYes6U28ZXg58M.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Energise your green living room with pops of yellow and lime</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)</span></figcaption></figure><p>While some people want their living room to be a serene place to relax, others see it as a space for hosting and having fun. If you fall into the latter camp, mixing green with yellow or lime will be right up your street – it’s a great way to create a joyful, energetic interior, according to Faye Simons.</p><p>She says, "Use mustards and emerald greens for a jewelled maximal feel, or moss green with a soft gold hue for a sophisticated look."</p><p>If you're worried about the yellow being too overpowering, Faye suggests adding a touch of colour through your curtains or soft furnishings, such as cushions and rugs. You might also want to paint the interior of an archway to brighten up the space, as shown in the photo above.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-make-a-statement-with-green-wallpaper"><span>5. Make a statement with green wallpaper</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="ikqtXjnFiG7B9mxkggjst3" name="Graham & Brown Gilded Leaf Olive wallpaper and ULUWATU paint" alt="Green living room with wallpaper feature wall and gold mirror" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ikqtXjnFiG7B9mxkggjst3.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Add personality to your green living room by choosing a bold wallpaper design</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Graham & Brown)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Choosing a beautiful wallpaper, like this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.grahambrown.com/uk/product/gilded-leaf-olive-wallpaper/130370-master/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Gilded Leaf Olive design by Graham & Brown</a>, is a great way to add a bit of drama to your green living room. If you’re unsure what theme you want to go for, wallpaper can also be a good starting point to build your scheme around.</p><p>Feeling unsure <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/wallpaper-a-feature-wall">how to wallpaper a feature wall</a> and which colours to pick? Helen Ashmore, Head of Design at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://lauraashley-uk.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Laura Ashley</a>, recommends a bold or large-scale pattern to draw the eye in and add depth to your space, or botanicals and painterly florals to bring in texture and movement.</p><p>If you decide to wallpaper everywhere, Helen suggests muted designs in softer shades to create a sense of calm and cohesion – think light, nature-inspired tones like sage, olive and moss. However, maximalists might prefer to layer bold prints with contrasting colours, furniture and accessories.</p><h2 id="our-favourite-green-wallpapers-2">Our favourite green wallpapers</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="528901a4-bc44-43df-92d9-329d80f685c2"> <a href="https://www.grahambrown.com/uk/product/paradys-green-wallpaper/119669-master/" data-model-name="Paradys Green Wallpaper" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZFiwrwAADeUSYpwcnW2TSQ.png' alt="Paradys Green Wallpaper"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Washable design</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Paradys Green Wallpaper</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Transform your living room into a tropical paradise with this banana leaf wallpaper, featuring shades of emerald and bottle green.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="aa108025-0ecb-4e89-aab2-846db6917d5d"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/superfresco-easy-sage-stripe-patterned-smooth-wallpaper/5011583835250_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Superfresco Easy Sage Stripe Patterned Smooth Wallpaper" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/B3poAzY55vcQmaaTs63B5S.png' alt=" Easy Sage Stripe Patterned Smooth Wallpaper"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Spongeable option</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Superfresco Easy Sage Stripe Patterned Smooth Wallpaper</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Elongate your living room with this striped wallpaper in calming sage green.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d704cad4-963c-4ec4-96e8-ed25ca1d25fa"> <a href="https://www.grahambrown.com/uk/product/gilded-leaf-olive-wallpaper/130370-master/" data-model-name="Gilded Leaf Olive Wallpaper" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/y4TPrhRcsn7u8LkALtAvmA.png' alt="Gilded Leaf Olive Wallpaper"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Metallic effect </span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Gilded Leaf Olive Wallpaper</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This gorgeous green print features an olive metallic leaf pattern on a khaki background.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-add-subtle-green-accents"><span>6. Add subtle green accents</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="DU38qWkzwtmAicXo7kxBLB" name="HBR209.rp_cuva.28_deerswood" alt="Living room with green ceiling and window accents" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DU38qWkzwtmAicXo7kxBLB.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Looking for something more subtle? Try painting your window frames and skirting boards in green</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Richard Chivers Photography )</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you like the idea of a green living room but aren’t quite ready to commit to the full look, why not start by adding a few accents? Faye Simons recommends using the darkest green for skirting boards and door trims, but if you just want to dip your toe in, you could start with your shelves or bookcases.</p><p>When it comes to choosing the right finish for these details, Anna Hill, Brand Director and Colour Consultant at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.fenwickandtilbrook.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Fenwick & Tilbrook</a>, says it all comes down to the look and practicality you’re aiming for.</p><p>If you're debating <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/eggshell-vs-satin">eggshell vs satin</a>, Anna advises: "Eggshell finishes, with their soft, low sheen, allow green tones to appear rich and layered, offering a subtle, refined look – especially suited to a muted, heritage palette. They’re ideal for creating a calm and sophisticated atmosphere.</p><p>"Satin is also perfect for highlighting architectural details such as window frames, skirting boards, mouldings and door trims, while offering excellent durability for busy areas."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-7-add-a-feature-wall-to-your-green-living-room"><span>7. Add a feature wall to your green living room</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="SmxqapPq93MgmX7i9TRPU9" name="HBR221.rp_keen.quarry_house_by_pete_helme_photography_p40" alt="Living room with green fireplace feature wall" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SmxqapPq93MgmX7i9TRPU9.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Turn your fireplace into a centrepiece with a touch of green</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Pete Helme)</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/home-improvements/are-feature-walls-out-of-fashion">Are feature walls out of fashion</a>? The answer is no... as long they're done correctly. Whether you opt for patterned wallpaper or a bold lick of paint, accent walls are an excellent way to spruce up your space – and it works particularly well for creating zones in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/open-plan-living">open-plan living</a> areas, explains Faye Simons.</p><p>"A popular option has always been to decorate a fireplace – this creates a centrepiece for the room without it being too overbearing," she says. "A nice alternative is to choose to use the wall behind your sofa; it will create a great focal point and frame your furniture beautifully.</p><p>"My favourite option would be the wall opposite the main light source; if your accent colour is strong, the light will reflect the colour around the room and create a glow. I would steer clear of painting smaller alcove walls because they will make the room feel fractured and disjointed."</p><h2 id="green-paint-inspiration-2">Green paint inspiration</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="834f8d24-e9ce-40f2-8a44-6ce2204f5b83"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/mylands-burlington-arcade-216-marble-matt-emulsion-2-5l/5025877133953_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Mylands Burlington Arcade 216 Marble Matt Emulsion" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sePnysRz5MqbQcwouyt9gG.png' alt="Mylands Burlington Arcade 216 Marble Matt Emulsion"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Matt finish</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Mylands Burlington Arcade 216 Marble Matt Emulsion</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Selected as Mylands’ Colour of the Year, this beautiful green-blue paint can be used on your walls and ceilings.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="2860e797-8373-489f-b231-49f8a44b637c"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dulux-Silk-Pine-Needle-2-5L/dp/B0DWT9LXG1" data-model-name="Dulux Silk Pine Needle " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JUvR6o7gyXTZCcPL75hez8.png' alt="Dulux Silk Pine Needle"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Silk finish</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Dulux Silk Pine Needle </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Dramatic and luxurious, this pine-needle shade from Dulux will look elegant in your living room and features a quick-dry formula.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="6a207314-b8b2-4430-a6b8-cc8dadae3fc0"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crown-Retail-Core-Emulsion-Mellow/dp/B004R23JIW" data-model-name="Crown Retail Core Emulsion Matt Mellow Sage" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/b3u3m6FnDUecLnetP52sDo.png' alt="Crown Retail Core Emulsion Matt Mellow Sage"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Matt finish</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Crown Retail Core Emulsion Matt Mellow Sage</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>If you want to evoke a sense of calm in your home, this soothing sage shade is the perfect choice – and it’s asthma- and allergy-friendly.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-8-bring-your-green-living-room-to-life-with-plants"><span>8. Bring your green living room to life with plants</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="acMUH4hyytRY5Z3ZDfYQ6K" name="itsnotsogrimupnorth green 01" alt="Green living room with plant and gallery wall" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/acMUH4hyytRY5Z3ZDfYQ6K.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>No green living room is complete without a selection of plants</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: @itsnotsogrimupnorth)</span></figcaption></figure><p>They say plants have a calming effect on the mind, so what better way to create a peaceful, green living room than by bringing the outdoors in? Introducing botanicals into your space adds a subtle pop of colour while also providing benefits like improved air quality and natural stress relief. If you're struggling with condensation, you might want to check out these <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/bathroom-plants-that-absorb-moisture">plants that absorb moisture</a>.</p><p>Jordana Ashkenazi, Founder and Design Director of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://elementonehouse.com/" target="_blank">Element One House</a> says: "Whether it’s a large fiddle-leaf fig in a corner or smaller potted greenery on shelves or side tables, plants add texture, freshness, and a natural vibrancy. They’re like a neutral in their own right as they go with everything and instantly make a space feel warm, organic, and complete."</p><p>Don’t worry if you don’t have space for dozens of plants – you could opt for soft furnishings with leafy prints or create a nature-inspired gallery wall, as shown in the photo above.</p><h2 id="introduce-a-touch-of-the-outdoors-with-these-shopping-picks-2">Introduce a touch of the outdoors with these shopping picks</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="68be5f05-63b5-4d5a-9559-b817677d23c7"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Indoor-Tropical-Exotic-Evergreen-50-60cm/dp/B0BTMG77RN/" data-model-name="Areca Palm House Plant" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eCKmmRCZNGFNLzD9EcfDKU.png' alt="Areca palm plant in pot"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Low-maintenance </span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Areca Palm House Plant</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This gorgeous areca palm is available in sizes from 30cm to 140cm and is non-toxic to pets.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="67637b83-6639-4e53-b39b-2a360240642d"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/crewelwork-leaf-square-cushion-cover-1000265161" data-model-name="Crewelwork Leaf Square Cushion Cover" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QvnkSUyNePyoFCCtiqg74E.png' alt="Crewelwork Leaf Square Cushion Cover"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Machine-washable </span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Crewelwork Leaf Square Cushion Cover</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Made from 100% cotton, this leaf-print cushion cover will liven up any sofa.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="2bef0a48-5bff-4a7a-b1dd-05e2a8224949"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Succulent-Mix-Plants-Office-Indoor/dp/B06ZY1MJGW/" data-model-name="Succulent Plants" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rifJPwsgN5KeUgRooLwumC.png' alt="GardenersDream 3 Succulent Plants"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Three-pack</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Succulent Plants</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Don’t have space for a massive plant? These mini succulents are the perfect way to add a touch of green to shelves, windowsills, and tables.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-9-drench-your-living-room-with-green"><span>9. Drench your living room with green</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="WZNAhiwsyWqVEf5t6yYUkf" name="Cotswold Company Autumn Living Room" alt="Green living room with painted walls, ceiling and furniture" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WZNAhiwsyWqVEf5t6yYUkf.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Wooden focal points work well in a green-drenched room</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="http://cotswoldco.com/" target="_blank">cotswoldco.com/</a>)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you're fully committed to a green living room, colour drenching is the best way to take the plunge. However, Matthias Silverton, Interior Design Consultant & Curtain Design Specialist at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://thesnugco.com/cat/curtain" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">TheSnugCo.com</a>, warns that to achieve the desired result, you must be all in with this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/paint-trends">paint trend</a>.</p><p>He says: "As soon as you break the rule by leaving a contrasting white trim or ceiling, the desired effect falls apart. Avoid creating a flat, uninteresting room by alternating texture and sheen on the different elements. The walls, ceilings, and all architraves or skirting must be painted the exact same shade of green, but the sheen should change.</p><p>"Any elements that aren't green will instantly become focal points. The power of colour flooding also has the added benefit of being able to hide undesirable elements too. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-paint-a-radiator">Painting radiators</a> can help them fade into the background."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-10-introduce-green-window-treatments"><span>10. Introduce green window treatments</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="giCK7SgZkAY7aCLj4EhNR7" name="HILLARYS PRIVACY SHEERS DAY AND NIGHT BLINDS PRISM GREEN CURTAINS HUXLEY MOSS" alt="Living room with green striped blinds and green curtains" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/giCK7SgZkAY7aCLj4EhNR7.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em></em><a href="https://www.hillarys.co.uk/products/huxley-moss-curtain/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>Hillary's Hulexy Moss Curtains</em></a><em> pair perfectly with their </em><a href="https://www.hillarys.co.uk/products/prism-green-day-night-blind/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>Prism Green Blinds</em></a> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Hillary's)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Whether it’s soft sage and olive tones to create a nature-inspired space or deep forest greens to add drama and sophistication, Yvonne Keal, Product Management Specialist at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.hillarys.co.uk/curtains/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hillarys</a>, says this colour is incredibly versatile for curtains and blinds.</p><p>If you’re aiming for a neutral colour scheme, Yvonne recommends choosing a rich green to serve as a bold focal point; for rooms that already feature a strong colour accent, she suggests opting for a muted green.</p><p>Simon Browne, Product Expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.luxaflex.co.uk/products/roller-blinds/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Luxaflex</a>, says: “In smaller rooms, plain fabrics can help create a sense of openness and flow, especially when you’re using lighter shades. Don’t shy away from subtle patterns, though – vertical stripes, for example, can elongate the space. In larger rooms, patterned blinds or curtains can add depth and interest, breaking up expanses of wall and drawing the eye. It’s all about balance and how much visual texture the room can comfortably carry.”</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-11-paint-your-living-room-ceiling-green"><span>11. Paint your living room ceiling green</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="5GZfr2Us5hoJcoGb3o5ZhK" name="sharnshouse_1747401689_3633791200842180156_5381588278" alt="Living room with green ceiling" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5GZfr2Us5hoJcoGb3o5ZhK.webp" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A green ceiling naturally draws the eye upward</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: @sharnshouse)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you’d prefer to keep your walls fresh and bright but still want to incorporate green into your living room, consider <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-a-ceiling">painting the ceiling</a> instead. Extending a light shade onto the upper section of your walls can also make the room feel larger.</p><p>"Painting your ceiling a dark colour is a real fashion statement at the moment and I love it!" says Faye Simons. "Darkening your ceiling transforms the room, creating an intimate and atmospheric space. It's great in living rooms for the winter months, but make it an all-year-round addition by keeping your walls lighter ready for the spring and summer months."</p><p>Or for something a little more dramatic, Helen Ashmore says: "More often being referred to as the 'fifth wall', wallpapering the ceiling will create a really bold design statement, adding depth and drama especially when combined with walls that have been colour drenched in green."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-12-add-a-pop-of-orange-to-lift-your-green-living-room"><span>12. Add a pop of orange to lift your green living room</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="XH685xZbW7ZkPmdSt9L8V4" name="Harlow Green Sofa - Family Living Room - Flat on Portrait" alt="Living room with green couch" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XH685xZbW7ZkPmdSt9L8V4.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Orange accessories will elevate your green living room</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="http://furniturechoice.co.uk/" target="_blank">furniturechoice.co.uk</a>)</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's nothing better than the green and orange hues of autumn, and you can enjoy this beautiful combination all year round by mixing them in your living room scheme. This perfect pair are neighbours on the colour wheel and share a common hue (yellow), which means they blend effortlessly together.</p><p>Faye Simons says: "Orange and green can create a fantastic, bold mid-century modern scheme. Terracotta or rust paired with sage or olive adds richness; use deep brown, charcoal, and black to ground the space."</p><p>Whether you drape a rust throw over a green sofa or hang green artwork on a terracotta wall, Faye says the secret to making it work is layering. You could also try introducing an orange-tinged lamp to ease your way in.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="4163fb12-6dd6-4269-b403-6f4adb9b3044"> <a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-chenille-weave-throw/sienna/p111835639" data-model-name="Chenille Weave Throw" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BEiLLgStUfK6kF6vQafhYH.png' alt="Chenille Weave Throw"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <span class='featured__label horizontal__label'>Reversible</span> <div class="featured__title">Chenille Weave Throw</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This chenille weave throw comes in the perfect shade of rust, and reviewers rave about how cosy it is – and how well it drapes across furniture.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="is-green-a-good-colour-for-a-living-room-2">Is green a good colour for a living room?</h2><p>Yes, green is one of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/best-colour-for-a-living-room">best colours for a living room</a>. According to Melissa Denham, Interior Design Expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.hammonds-uk.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hammonds Furniture</a>, it’s a wonderful way to breathe calmness into your space and shades like sage, pistachio, and mint have become very popular.</p><p>She says: “Representing nature and harmony, green is known to have a healing effect on the mind, and is often associated with balance and stability, which are things that the majority of us try to improve in our day-to-day lives."</p><h2 id="what-style-of-furniture-goes-best-in-green-rooms-2">What style of furniture goes best in green rooms?</h2><p>If your green living room is a lighter shade, Melissa Denham recommends natural elements like pine furniture, rattan, wicker accessories, and skylights to "reinforce the earthy feel of the colour and add tactile interest". To create a more luxurious feel, finish the room with brass or gold hardware.</p><p>As mentioned previously, adding plants to a green living room is always a good idea. Melissa explains: "These natural air purifiers will help to embody the connection to nature, as well as having a variety of mental health benefits, such as improving your mood and reducing stress levels.”</p><p>Sara D’Souza, Content Strategist & Creator at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://frenchicpaint.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Frenchic Paint</a>, concludes: "Green is the perfect colour for a living room, as it gives the feel of bringing the outdoors in and taps into the ongoing trend for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/biophilic-design">biophilic design</a>.</p><p>"Depending on what kind of atmosphere you want to create, green can bring a sense of calm, an inviting cosiness, vibrancy, or an elegant feel if you go for a darker hue."</p><p>Still not sold on green? Take a look at these <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/living-room-paint-ideas">living room paint ideas</a> for more inspiration.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/living-room/green-living-room-ideas</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Get inspired by our favourite green living room ideas, with top tips from design experts on how to use this soothing shade in your scheme ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">7GzNu2VJH9DJ2V5dZ5Tdq</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7oL62nJR4atiyxZrawX7w9-1280-80.png" type="image/png" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sat, 18 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Living Room]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ megan.milstead@futurenet.com (Megan Milstead) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Megan Milstead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7oL62nJR4atiyxZrawX7w9-1280-80.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Dulux]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Green living room with white sofa and gold lamp]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Green living room with white sofa and gold lamp]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7oL62nJR4atiyxZrawX7w9-1280-80.png" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Underfloor heating maintenance is pretty easy, but these are the vital checks you can do yourself to keep it in tip-top condition ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>While bleeding radiators and boiler services are common maintenance tasks for a central heating system, what's involved in underfloor heating maintenance?</p><p>Less visible than radiators, underfloor heating generally only has a few visible elements – mainly the manifolds, pipes leading to the manifold and thermostats. So how can you regularly check your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/underfloor-heating-guide">underfloor heating</a> is both safe and working as it should?</p><p>Heating expert, David Hilton explains the jobs you need to add to your underfloor heating maintenance list and the warning signs to keep an eye out for that might suggest you need to call in the experts.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-wet-underfloor-heating-maintenance"><span>Wet underfloor heating maintenance</span></h3><p>Wet underfloor heating systems have a number of different ways that they can be installed, but essentially the maintenance requirement for all wet systems is very similar.</p><p>Flow is key to the performance levels of your wet underfloor heating, and as such, any restrictions to the flow will result in poor performance. Therefore, a standard underfloor heating annual service is recommended as part of your underfloor heating maintenance plan.</p><p>This will include a service engineer looking at all of the filters, checking that none of the safety valves are weeping, and also that the inhibitors and antifreeze additives are all still fit for purpose. If they have thickened in the system, this will mean the pump has to work a lot harder and flow will be impacted.</p><p>As the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/underfloor-heating-manifolds">underfloor heating manifold</a> is the part of the wet underfloor heating system that distributes the heat to the various zones, it also has the most moving and working parts on it.</p><p>If you have the knowledge and skills, you can check that all the actuators (zone valves) are working in order to check they all still open and close on demand, and also that the balance of the system is still right, ensuring the right amount of heat goes to the correct areas. If not, this should again be covered by an annual service.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.67%;"><img id="PGziST7j47PNGURkb3RbMo" name="underfloor heating_GettyImages-2233970201" alt="underfloor heating manifolds" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/PGziST7j47PNGURkb3RbMo.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="1600" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Underfloor heating manifolds are one of the few components you can see in your underfloor heating system</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Anna Markine/Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="diy-underfloor-heating-maintenance-2">DIY underfloor heating maintenance</h2><p>But with some of the more complicated checks needing the skills of a qualified expert, what can you do at home to ensure your underfloor maintenance prevents big problems from developing?</p><p>Making sure you know <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-bleed-underfloor-heating">how to bleed underfloor heating </a>will help keep your system in good working order. In addition, some simple underfloor heating maintenance checks you can regularly undertake yourself include:</p><ul><li>Checking for airlocks (often identified by strange noises)</li><li>Feeling the floor for cold spots</li><li>Making sure the pressure gauge is at the right setting</li><li>Cleaning vents and manifolds</li><li>Running the system occasionally throughout the summer to prevent pumps sticking</li><li>Testing the thermostats</li></ul><h2 id="pipework-maintenance-2">Pipework maintenance</h2><p>As the main pipework for wet underfloor heating systems is buried in the fabric of the building, namely the floor, it is not feasible to physically check it all. However, there are still steps you can take as part of your underfloor heating maintenance.</p><p>A visual check for signs of leaks or corrosion on the flow and return pipes leading to the mainfold is essential, and any pipework that has insulation on it will also need to be visually inspected for any signs that the insulation is coming away from the pipes, as well as any signs of water residue around the joins of the insulation.</p><p>However, any water marks at the joins does not necessarily mean that there is a leak at that exact point, as water could have travelled quite a long way along the inside of the insulation and only come out at a gap.</p><p>Signs of water leaks, especially if they are still wet, will need you to remove the insulation and find the source, and the reason for the leak. This will then need to be repaired by a competent plumber or heating engineer.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="F8cAnUhYNtd863U435p8yD" name="UFH_Screed UFH" alt="workers pouring screed onto underfloor heating pipes" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/F8cAnUhYNtd863U435p8yD.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Once your pipework is installed it's the surface of the flooring you'll need to check to look for leaks</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Nu-Heat)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="dealing-with-leaks-or-wet-patches-2">Dealing with leaks or wet patches</h2><p>Unlike electrical underfloor heating systems, if there is a mechanical break in a wet system then there will be signs of water leaks – although most leaks in underfloor heating systems happen during <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-install-underfloor-heating">underfloor heating installation</a>, or when building works happen in the home and the system is accidentally damaged.</p><p>In the unlikely event that you notice a wet patch in the floor then an inspection with a thermal imaging camera will be required to be sure that the cause of the issue can be located.</p><p>To repair it, a part of the floor will need to be removed to expose the pipes. In a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/floor-structure-guide">suspended floor</a> this will be slightly less tricky than a screeded floor, but any water damage may be greater. Any damage discovered to the underfloor heating pipes will need to be repaired and pressure tested before the area can also be repaired and made good again.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-electric-underfloor-heating-maintenance"><span>Electric underfloor heating maintenance</span></h3><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/electric-underfloor-heating">Electrical underfloor heating systems</a> need very little maintenance and will need to be inspected by an appropriately qualified and experienced electrician. Therefore, the best maintenance you can undertake is to be vigilant in monitoring how it is operating, and being aware of any signs, or smells, of burning from the wiring.</p><p>If you notice any obvious issues or if the system suddenly stops working then call in an expert. Also make sure you know where the isolation switch is so that you can safely cut the power to it until they get there.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="YnniQHK2bqFFezwWh3jd4P" name="UFH_Electric UFH" alt="electric underfloor heating being installed in bathroom" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YnniQHK2bqFFezwWh3jd4P.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Electric underfloor heating requires no real maintenance other than checks to make sure it's working and keeping an eye out for electrical faults</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Nu-Heat)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-additional-checks"><span>Additional checks</span></h3><p>Last, but not least, you need to be sure that you are running the system correctly by avoiding the most common <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/underfloor-heating-mistakes">underfloor heating mistakes</a>.</p><p>Many modern heating systems may now have <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-choose-heat-pumps">heat pumps</a> connected and as such the underfloor heating should have been designed, installed and commissioned for low temperatures, and should also ideally not be set up with zones (or times of the day) that turn the system completely off.</p><p>During any annual heating service, it is essential to let the service engineer know if you have had any issues with the heating system during the year so that these can be rectified during the service.</p><p>Once the system is set up, leave it alone. It might be nice to be able to tamper with control apps on your phone, but make sure you know what you are doing before you start making too many changes.</p><p>Knowledge of how your underfloor heating operates and should be operated will also ensure you don't start calling out engineers for problems that don't exist or need any maintenance.</p><p>Find out <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-long-does-underfloor-heating-take-to-warm-up">how long does underfloor heating take to warm up</a>, so you don't confuse normal delays with cold spots, and also establish <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-temperature-should-underfloor-heating-be-set-at">what temperature should underfloor heating be set at</a> so you don't make unnecessary demands on your home heating.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/underfloor-heating-maintenance</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Although an annual service should identify any problems, the underfloor heating maintenance you do yourself will help keep your system working well ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">QMidvprd3HU2Tm7kgbehyA</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NVuHe4eCa6NJ2kmzwahrRc-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sat, 18 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ David Hilton ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NVuHe4eCa6NJ2kmzwahrRc-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[AquaArts Studio/Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[man looking at underfloor heating manifolds in cupboard]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[man looking at underfloor heating manifolds in cupboard]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NVuHe4eCa6NJ2kmzwahrRc-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Where to buy paint for every room in your home as well as the features in your garden ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Paint is present throughout your home; it covers the walls, ceilings, doors, windows, and skirting boards. It is the classic finish that can quickly transform the colour, mood, and style of a room. Plus, it's a project most DIY enthusiasts can undertake themselves.</p><p>However, knowing <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-paint-a-room"><u>how to paint a room</u></a> is just one step towards a perfect paint job. Selecting the right paint is essential for success, and here we have compiled a list of our favourite places to buy paint. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly options to high-end, colour-perfect paints that can elevate any painting project.</p><h2 id="before-you-buy-paint-think-about-what-type-of-paint-and-tools-you-re-going-to-need-2">Before you buy paint, think about what type of paint and tools you’re going to need</h2><p>Paint comes in many guises, so you need to decide what you need before you start the purchasing process. Emulsion is the paint of choice for walls and ceilings, but if using it in a high-traffic area like a hallway, you want a paint that is durable and washable. Then you’ll need to think about the finish. Matt is great for walls that aren’t perfect, as it reflects less light.</p><p>When <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-skirting-boards"><u>painting skirting boards</u></a>, doors, door frames, architraves, and window sills, you need a hard-wearing, durable and wipeable paint. The finish is typically a choice of satin or gloss, with a satin finish being a popular choice for contemporary homes, offering a lower, more subtle sheen.</p><p>And, don’t forget that you’ll need the right tools to ensure a successful paint project. Check your paint brushes and rollers to see if you’ll need to invest in some new ones. Try this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Harris-102012009-Seriously-Ceilings-Sleeves/dp/B08586JN4C/ref=asc_df_B08586JN4C?mcid=9a813d1579ec37f69635acec275eaebc&hvocijid=7760161606312519172-B08586JN4C-&hvexpln=74&tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=696285193871&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7760161606312519172&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9045714&hvtargid=pla-2281435177578&gad_source=1&th=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Harris Seriously Good Walls & Ceilings Paint Roller Set from Amazon</a> for walls and ceilings. This <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/B00T3AL2A0-ProDec-Plastic-Scuttle-Handles/dp/B00T3AL2A0"><u>ProDec 10 litre Plastic Paint Scuttle Bucket</u></a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Harris-102104009-Seriously-Aluminium-Extension/dp/B0866PS7FN" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Harris Seriously Good Aluminium Extension Pole (both from Amazon)</u></a> are handy companions when using rollers.</p><h2 id="where-to-buy-paint-for-indoors-and-outdoors-2">Where to buy paint for indoors and outdoors</h2><p>Below is selection of the best UK retailers that sell paint. The prices are correct at the time of publication, be sure to check each website for the most up-to-date prices and any special offers.</p><ul><li><strong>B&Q</strong> - <a href="https://www.diy.com/painting-decorating/paint.cat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">A collection of the best emulsion paints for walls and ceilings</a></li><li><strong>Amazon</strong> - <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=house+paint&crid=1U49S2WBTTY4X&sprefix=house+paint%2Caps%2C163&ref=nb_sb_noss_1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Paints for ceilings, kitchen cupboards and garden fences</a></li><li><strong>Frenchic</strong> - <a href="https://frenchicpaint.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Artisan and innovative paints for interior, outdoors and furniture</a></li><li><strong>Wickes</strong> - <a href="https://www.wickes.co.uk/Products/Painting+Decorating/Interior-Paint/c/1000555" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Budget-friendly emulsions and top-class primers</a></li><li><strong>Lick</strong> - <a href="https://www.lick.com/uk/products/paint" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">A range of eco-friendly, pigment-rich paint colours in matt and eggshell</a></li><li><strong>The Paint Shed</strong> - <a href="https://www.thepaintshed.com/trade-paint" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hard-wearing, durable, and long-lasting trade paints</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-b-q"><span>B&Q</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b4cf5eb0-0a02-4b13-9248-11c4dc4c5d9f"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/goodhome-problem-ceilings-brilliant-white-matt-ceiling-emulsion-paint-2-5l/5063022526137_BQ.prd" data-model-name="GoodHome Problem Ceilings - £18" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UszKWSVEnD4ZuWhQbfZsA8.webp' alt="GoodHome Problem Ceilings Emulsion"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>CEILING EMULSION</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">GoodHome Problem Ceilings - £18</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A water-based, low-odour paint that tackles ceiling imperfections effectively. Designed to block and prevent stains, it leaves a wipeable surface. Ideal for high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="fdce37a3-1081-47c1-8968-4ea52827b130"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/dulux-trade-pure-brilliant-white-vinyl-matt-emulsion-paint-10l/298928_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt - £48" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YnTcuHoXqjZDRvuk4tvwfL.webp' alt="Dulux Trade Pure brilliant white Vinyl matt"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>TRADE MATT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt - £48</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt is a high-opacity, water-based emulsion providing excellent coverage, durability, and a smooth, non-reflective finish for interior walls and ceilings.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b376bd18-e065-4bb8-b4e1-39f4aadcc4ac"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/dulux-heritage-beachcomb-grey-eggshell-multi-surface-wall-paint-750ml/5010212652169_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Dulux Heritage Wall paint - £32" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gZmoHyXHkjSG7WGcY4DDhd.webp' alt="Dulux Heritage Beachcomb Grey Eggshell Multi-surface Wall paint"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>EGGSHELL PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Dulux Heritage Wall paint - £32</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This Dulux Heritage eggshell paint is a durable, washable, water-based paint offering a soft, low sheen finish suitable for interior walls, wood, and metal surfaces.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-amazon"><span>Amazon</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="3183b731-35f8-4357-809d-0ca4978fc818"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rust-Oleum-Colours-Emulsion-Ceiling-Paint/dp/B0CYH6872G/" data-model-name="Rust-Oleum Colours Matt - £29" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/taXf7HmaFa5NPgmxJJPyx5.jpg' alt="Rust-Oleum Colours Matt Emulsion Wall and Ceiling Paint - Odyssey 2.5l"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>COLOURED EMULSION</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Rust-Oleum Colours Matt - £29</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A no nonsense matt wall and ceiling paint that comes in a myriad of blue hues. Easy to apply it is touch dry in two hours and recoatable in four hours and comes in a recyclable container.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="e6a30f61-d9d6-4400-a12e-21f6e2b8842f"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dulux-Retail-Cupboard-NATURAL-HESSIAN/dp/B00LUSU3KS" data-model-name="Dulux Cupboard Paint - £32.16" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vBwr45aco66494zA6p6GLA.jpg' alt="Dulux Cupboard Paint"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>CUPBOARD PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Dulux Cupboard Paint - £32.16</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>If you want to spruce up your kitchen cupboards this Dulux retail cupboard paint is a durable, water-based formula designed to resist everyday wear, providing long-lasting coverage.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="7cd49e46-eca8-4a2e-a92f-3882527333be"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rust-Oleum-Mould-Resistant-Garden-Paint-Finish/dp/B0BXTZJDJR/?th=1" data-model-name="Rust-Oleum Garden Paint - £20" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hGiNbGBo9fAr4w8LmK9JTg.jpg' alt="Rust-Oleum Pink Mould-Resistant Garden Paint in Gloss Finish - My Husband Said No 750ml"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>OUTDOOR PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Rust-Oleum Garden Paint - £20</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A weather and mould-resistant paint formulated for the garden. Designed to revamp outdoor furniture, fence, décor, sheds and walls. Available in over 100+ stylish shades and boasts a gloss finish.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-frenchic"><span>Frenchic</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="6fc27d21-48d5-44ca-b8e1-2779f22736cb"> <a href="https://frenchicpaint.co.uk/collections/paint-al-fresco/products/constance-moss-al-fresco" data-model-name="Frenchic Al Fresco - £22.95" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dsWpRJptHZsqEDbYFkb5HH.jpg' alt="Frenchic AlFresco paint"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>All purpose paint</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Frenchic Al Fresco - £22.95</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A multipurpose chalk and mineral paint that's weatherproof, making it suitable for interior and exterior use. Self-priming and self-sealing it's good for furniture and woodwork.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="c9e74cd8-f1df-4408-9d83-a011c6f6c39b"> <a href="https://frenchicpaint.co.uk/collections/lazy-range/products/spitfire-lazy-range" data-model-name="Frenchic Lazy Range - £22.95" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bycxZHHjxbXWDo2UhaJtsP.webp' alt="Frenchic Lazy Range"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>FURNITURE PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Frenchic Lazy Range - £22.95</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A chalk and mineral paint designed for interior furniture. It is self-priming and self-sealing and boasts a hard-wearing and fade resistant matte finish that comes with a unique wax infusion.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="96b156a3-ac82-46c8-8647-4b83282ce4c5"> <a href="https://frenchicpaint.co.uk/collections/original-artisan/products/flamenco-original-artisan" data-model-name="Frenchic Original Artisan - £21.95" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DUYw56jaLWNXaJ3XDiw95W.jpg' alt="Frenchic Original Artisan"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>CHALK PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Frenchic Original Artisan - £21.95</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A traditional self-priming style chalk and mineral eco-friendly paint that is formulated for interior furniture. Comes in 16 different colours that leave a chalky finish that can be left or sealed with a top coat of choice.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-wickes"><span>Wickes</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="244ed4fb-7928-46c6-80b3-27de0925345b"> <a href="https://www.wickes.co.uk/Wickes-Kitchen-Matt-Emulsion-Paint---Pure-Brilliant-White-No-0---5L/p/121923" data-model-name="Wickes Kitchen Emulsion - £22" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/v65L69wiG3DBrDfr6QfShV.jpg' alt="Wickes Kitchen Matt Emulsion Paint - Pure Brilliant White No.0 - 5l"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>stain resistant</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Wickes Kitchen Emulsion - £22</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Specifically designed for kitchens this matt emulsion is suitable for kitchen walls and ceilings. It is greaseproof, stain resistant, and washable making sure it stays looking good for longer.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="6c537678-b717-4237-b1ba-d796aabb983a"> <a href="https://www.wickes.co.uk/Crown-Easyclean-Matt-Emulsion-Paint---Clay-White---2-5L/p/266576" data-model-name="Crown Easyclean Emulsion - £24" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7dxaH2aEc4qkD93Ne2XmxZ.jpg' alt="Crown Easyclean Matt Emulsion Paint - Clay White - 2.5l"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>WIPEABLE PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Crown Easyclean Emulsion - £24</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This matt emulsion is specially formulated to allow for repetitive cleaning. It is much tougher and more washable than standard matt paints. Stain and scrub resistant it can be used on walls, ceilings, wood and metal.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="022134da-ceea-451a-be0b-4122f7a43c9b"> <a href="https://www.wickes.co.uk/Zinsser-B-I-N-Primer-Sealer---White---1L/p/252125" data-model-name="Zinsser B-I-N Primer Sealer - £24" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Kes3SJU8nxwGNJsZkQZaKf.jpg' alt="Zinsser B-I-N Primer Sealer - White - 1l"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>PRIMER/SEALER</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Zinsser B-I-N Primer Sealer - £24</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>One of the best primer/sealers and stain blockers on the market. A shellac-based primer it is quick drying and can be recoated in as little as 45 minutes. Adheres to most surfaces ready for a top coat.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-lick"><span>Lick</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="5e631b5b-b5db-4046-80a4-93a18a7d8219"> <a href="https://www.lick.com/uk/product/greige-03-matt-paint" data-model-name="Dark Greige Paint - £39" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:125.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SZFuuJdA8TTtJ7e7qERjB6.jpg' alt="Greige 03: Dark Greige Paint - Matt Emulsion Paint"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>MATT PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Dark Greige Paint - £39</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A warm, dark, greige paint with brown and green undertones. Ideal for walls and ceilings, this matt emulsion provides rich tones and a paper-like finish. Easy to apply with a brush or roller.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d1d0f935-a9f9-4b39-9e12-ea32181fc577"> <a href="https://www.lick.com/uk/product/white-01-ultra-flat-matt-paint" data-model-name="Supreme – Ultra Flat Matt Paint - £49" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:125.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oky2HFp4nX8qp5G7QmzFzA.jpg' alt="White 01: Supreme – Ultra Flat Matt Paint"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>FLAT MATT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Supreme – Ultra Flat Matt Paint - £49</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>An ultra flat matt paint with a supremely low sheen level provides a soft, velvety finish, making it a good choice for walls, ceilings, radiators, and woodwork. Boasts Class 1 scrub resistance for extra durability.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="a79cf9e3-4bd9-43a0-8a4d-36b809dc4e96"> <a href="https://www.lick.com/uk/product/blue-05-eggshell-paint" data-model-name="Warm Mid Blue Paint - £45" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:125.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/X59dxEzR4EACBjVsMsoFm4.jpg' alt="Blue 05: Warm Mid Blue Paint - Eggshell Paint"><span class='featured__label hero__label'> Eggshell Paint</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Warm Mid Blue Paint - £45</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This eggshell emulsion paint that has a mid level sheen that gives a durable and wipeable finish. It offers exceptional depth of colour which helps reflect light into a room. Good for bedrooms and living rooms.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-paint-shed"><span>The Paint Shed</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="85237403-7a3f-4344-a497-a6f242f21ceb"> <a href="https://www.thepaintshed.com/benjamin-moore-ultra-spec-scuff-x-satin" data-model-name="Scuff X Satin - £38.50" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ojCsHvkpMwBxN46Dzm4swJ.jpg' alt="Benjamin Moore Ultra Spec Scuff X Satin"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>SCUFF RESISTANT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Scuff X Satin - £38.50</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This water-based acrylic paint is designed for use in high-traffic areas and provides a durable satin finish. You can wash, wipe or scrub clean repeatedly without damaging the colour.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="206e3b22-1cf6-49d4-972c-f0b2132a31c1"> <a href="https://www.thepaintshed.com/dulux-satinwood-all-colours" data-model-name="Dulux Trade Satinwood - £25.76" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SBqVaJv7mP5VPqNyNuBhLR.jpg' alt="Dulux Trade Satinwood Tinted Colour Match"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>SATIN FINISH</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Dulux Trade Satinwood - £25.76</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A popular oil-based trim paint that is suitable for wood and metal. Ideal for skirting boards, architrave and windows sills it dries to a durable, subtle satin sheen that is easy to apply and clean.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="a33659cb-690c-4d53-8c7c-90a8edb793da"> <a href="https://www.thepaintshed.com/zinsser-allcoat-exterior-wb-satin-colours" data-model-name="Zinsser Allcoat paint - £24.60" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vMP4rGQuMzkb4RawpM54zX.jpg' alt="Zinsser Allcoat Water Based Exterior Satin Tinted Colour Match"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>EXTERIOR SATIN</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Zinsser Allcoat paint - £24.60</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A high-performing mould-resistant paint for most exterior surfaces, including wood, metal, masonry, cladding, plastic, and concrete. A highly durable, self-priming, long-lasting paint. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><p>When tackling a paint project you not only need the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-gloss-paint"><u>best gloss paint</u></a> for your woodwork you need the best tools to apply the paint. Check out our guide on the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-paint-sprayers"><u>best paint sprayers</u></a> for a quick fine finish and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/im-a-diy-expert-and-these-are-the-tools-i-always-buy"><u>best tools to buy on Amazon</u></a>.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/paint/where-to-buy-paint</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Are you looking for the right paint, at the right price for your next home renovation project? We’ve done the hard work for you and put together a list of UK retailers to suit all your painting needs. ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">tBNRMs5WThVhug3xN5oBo4</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wKnoMhdo95KiSAstUtD9sH-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sat, 18 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Paint]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Steve Jenkins ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wKnoMhdo95KiSAstUtD9sH-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Close up of large plastic containers of paint with tins of paint in background on shelves in a store]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Close up of large plastic containers of paint with tins of paint in background on shelves in a store]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wKnoMhdo95KiSAstUtD9sH-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Omaze £6m planning row ends — but winner no longer wants to keep it ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>After months of uncertainty, the winner of a £6m Omaze mansion in Blakeney has finally been told she can move in.</p><p>North Norfolk District Council has approved retrospective <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/planning-permission">planning permission</a> for the home’s pool, tennis court, and garage, ending a seven-month wrangle.</p><p>But Vicky Curtis-Cresswell says she now plans to sell the luxury property and buy a family home in Wales instead.</p><h2 id="committee-says-there-is-no-reason-why-it-should-be-rejected-2">Committee says there is 'no reason why it should be rejected'</h2><p>Blakeney <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-win-over-your-parish-council">Parish Council</a> expressed concerns over the developments, stating the importance of adhering to planning policies to preserve the area's character.</p><p>Chair Rosemary Thew stated that the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/winner-of-gbp6m-omaze-home-still-hasnt-been-given-keys-due-to-planning-problems">planning application for the Omaze home should be rejected</a> to "send a clear message that planning processes must be adhered to," highlighting that the size of Larkfields had "increased considerably" and that the modifications failed to preserve and enhance the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/conservation-areas">conservation area</a>.</p><p>Development Committee chair Paul Heinrich said the fact the application was retrospective wasn’t a reason to refuse it, adding: “There are no policy reasons why this should be rejected.”</p><p>Planning officers said the pool and summer house could have been built under <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/permitted-development-rights-guide">permitted development rights</a>, while the tennis court and garage required consent but were acceptable in scale and appearance.</p><h2 id="winner-s-announces-plans-to-sell-after-the-delay-2">Winner's announces plans to sell after the delay</h2><div class="see-more see-more--clipped"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet hawk-ignore" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Part 1: 🎉 From Miss Wales finalist to multi-millionaire! 🎉Vicky Curtis-Cresswell, a former Miss Wales finalist from South Wales, just WON the £6,000,000 Norfolk House in the BIGGEST EVER Omaze Prize Draw—all from a £10 entry! 😱🏡Vicky’s win couldn’t have come at a better… pic.twitter.com/iaKNYGu5a8<a href="https://twitter.com/cantworkitout/status/1905530264878526617">March 28, 2025</a></p></blockquote><div class="see-more__filter"></div></div><p>Vicky Curtis-Cresswell, the winner of the mansion, expressed "pure joy" upon learning of her win. She had been residing with her in-laws while awaiting the resolution of the planning dispute.</p><p>With the issue now settled, she plans to sell the property and purchase a home in Wales for her family.</p><p>She stated, "I think we'll sell it to release the money and buy another amazing house somewhere in Wales," indicating her intention to move forward with her plans.</p><h2 id="omaze-s-guarantee-to-winners-2">Omaze's 'guarantee' to winners</h2><p>Omaze has previously said it will cover all costs to resolve the planning issues and ensure the house can be legally transferred to the winner.</p><p>A company spokesperson stated: "Omaze has taken every possible step to bring the issue to a swift resolution, including submitting a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/retrospective-planning">retrospective planning</a> application to address the recommendations made by North Norfolk District Council."</p><p>They added: "We guarantee no house winner would ever have to incur any costs to remedy historical planning issues, and all house prizes are transferred with good and marketable title."</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/planning/omaze-gbp6m-planning-row-ends-but-winner-no-longer-wants-to-keep-it</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Vicky Curtis-Cresswell finally gets the keys to her £6m Norfolk mansion after a planning dispute over unapproved features, but now says she's selling it ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">mCfEuaau789okxfiVdRgpM</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nuuiJnHVG5Y2nPmN4CQoSX-1280-80.png" type="image/png" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sat, 18 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Planning]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nuuiJnHVG5Y2nPmN4CQoSX-1280-80.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Omaze]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A large house with swimming pool and patio and large gardens along with a full second floor balcony]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A large house with swimming pool and patio and large gardens along with a full second floor balcony]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nuuiJnHVG5Y2nPmN4CQoSX-1280-80.png" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Who is responsible for shared drains on my property? What every homeowner should know ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Hidden below ground and rarely seen or heard, drainage isn’t something most of us think about – until there’s a problem. But if you don’t know which pipes you’re responsible for, you could end up ignoring issues, passing the buck, or even causing long-term damage. That’s why it’s vital to understand who’s in charge of any shared drains on your property.</p><p>In some cases, your local water authority will handle the upkeep, but many <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/drainage-systems">drainage systems</a> are privately owned and entirely your responsibility. Depending on how wastewater leaves your home, you may also share responsibility with your neighbours. In these situations, it’s wise to agree in advance on how to manage blockages and leaks – avoiding confusion and awkward conversations later on.</p><p>If you’re unsure where you stand, don’t worry. We’ve spoken to several drainage experts, including Callan Hill, Business Development Manager at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.sbdrainservices.co.uk" target="_blank">SB Drain Services</a>, to help you understand your rights and responsibilities, prepare for discussions with neighbours and your local water board, and know what to do if you plan any building work that could affect your drains.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ec4c3979-eadc-4f0d-958e-d4ea4fb913bd"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Plumbo-Heavy-Drain-Unblocker-Power/dp/B09MPKVHQ3?ref_=ast_sto_dp" data-model-name="Drain Unblocker - Gentle on Pipes by Plumbo" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TQ6SrHzmkDGGyvnxwRnz5j.jpg' alt="Drain Unblocker - 3 Doses Heavy Duty Gel Formula – Dissolves Hair, Grease & Waste – Odour Remover, Gentle on Pipes by Plumbo"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Drain Unblocker - Gentle on Pipes by Plumbo</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A unique blend of potassium, sodium hydroxide, chlorine & cleaning products formulated to dissolve waste, human & pet hair, and blockages caused by food debris, fat, grease, soap, toothpaste, and makeup.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="6b4cd2c0-ac26-4652-b45c-05b0eadb629f"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/HG-Kitchen-Drain-Unblocker-unblocker/dp/B00HLXTFXC/ref=pd_day0fbt_d_sccl_1/257-0318718-2760672?pd_rd_w=EnYoa&content-id=amzn1.sym.11a4d54e-1e50-4bfa-9630-b6658636e953&pf_rd_p=11a4d54e-1e50-4bfa-9630-b6658636e953&pf_rd_r=CNB5CKBF242GMW5QQ7DR&pd_rd_wg=WdrHI&pd_rd_r=49a12434-4b35-4a1b-ab84-5d2cb0112530&pd_rd_i=B00HLXTFXC&psc=1" data-model-name="Hg Kitchen Drain & Plug Unblocker, Natural - 1 Litre" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SQdqJ2EGbpLz4ioZVSspJA.jpg' alt="Hg Kitchen Drain & Plug Unblocker, Natural, Heavy Duty, Kitchen Sink Unblocker & Cleaner for Pipes, Septic Tank Safe - 1 Litre"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Hg Kitchen Drain & Plug Unblocker, Natural - 1 Litre</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A fast acting drain unblocker and kitchen sink cleaner. Clears the pipes quickly and easily; ideal for persistent blockages caused by fat, oil and food remnants - with an eco-conscious formula</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="74c39ea9-c4f6-403e-9105-236a040c5ac9"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Drain-Unblocker-Cleaner-Brush-Tool/dp/B0F48472GM/ref=sr_1_51?crid=2TZR7Z929EA9O&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Kd6F-KVd1yofVBfXx--2JjsA4LHygT_juBSSrm2WtIRYA7_zTuR7Kp1EvpBefFJSIdkVnbG93_f9WLm6bHXef20XiaM9lzFSrEguEERumTgygJ4RzLmDK8m6jPjBZ34z87EP-3cp8uPMmwTUGP1DU4hxU5xLVPcZJS57a7W5jpK46M6kJsADuF25wcFHP4jgUVniD0k4uSP5P367j1MboJTonN0z1GS0PimkqsAajJ7FGBr1wdYym5SbgI1M4sbtPli5GgZlA8i5Qv7Nsh21FmCzKzCld1XAkZh9z7_LEk8.fdqn9VPhlX-MwoBa_PABSTtC5Y_uuRKfygmxG95dWjg&dib_tag=se&keywords=drain+cleaner&qid=1760613852&sprefix=drain%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-51" data-model-name="Drain Unblocker Cleaner Brush Tool - 4pcs" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/S7zRhuivGuhaAvMnvEUEuJ.jpg' alt="Drain Unblocker Cleaner Brush Tool - 4pcs Shower Drain Unblocker,double Ended Nylon Pipe Cleaner Brush,toilet Unblocker for Bathroom Toilet Kitchen Plug Hole,reusable Rods"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Drain Unblocker Cleaner Brush Tool - 4pcs</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>These sink unblockers are made of high-quality materials, that are durable and will not rust. The bristles are made of nylon which is both resistant and easy to clean, suitable for cleaning drain holes regularly to prevent clogging.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-understanding-drains-vs-sewers"><span>Understanding drains vs sewers</span></h3><p>A drain that leaves a property will have a different name depending on whereabouts in the drainage system the pipes are located. <br><br>“A private drain is a pipe that carries wastewater or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-surface-water-drainage">surface water</a> in a single property – from your sinks, toilets, or showers – either to a lateral drain or a public sewer,” says Callan. “If the pipe only serves your property and lies within your boundary, it’s classed as a private drain, and it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain or repair it.”</p><p>In most cases, that will be the freeholder. If you live in a leasehold property, it will be the responsibility of the freeholder, or everyone with a share of the freehold.</p><p>“A lateral drain usually lies outside your property boundary and connects your private drain to the public sewer,” Callan continues. “Even if it only carries your waste but runs beyond your boundary, it’s still classed as a lateral drain – and that’s the responsibility of your local water company.”</p><p>“Public sewers carry waste water from multiple properties to a treatment facility. They’re owned and maintained by the local water company, and different regions are covered by different providers – for example, Thames Water, Anglian Water, or Affinity Water,” Callan concludes. <br><br>Typically, it will be obvious which water company is in charge of your sewerage. “However,” says Callan, “some water companies only handle clean water supply, while others deal with both clean and foul water. In some areas, you might have more than one company managing the water going in and out of your property, so do double check.”<br><br>If you want to check who your wastewater supplier is (and therefore who is responsible for your lateral drains and public sewers), visit <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.water.org.uk/customers/find-your-supplier" target="_blank"><u><strong>Water UK’s Find Your Supplier</strong></u></a> tool and enter your postcode.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-can-i-tell-if-i-have-shared-drains"><span>How can I tell if I have shared drains?</span></h3><p>"Older properties, particularly in terraces or converted buildings like flats etc, often have shared private drains that collect waste from several homes before joining the public sewer, and can be hard to locate," says Aaron Willcox, owner of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.checkatrade.com/trades/awplumbingandheating1088659" target="_blank">AW Plumbing and Heating</a> and winner of the Checkatrade Plumber of the Year Award 2025 for the South region.</p><p>There are a few ways to find out if your drains are shared. “It might be shown in your property or title deeds, or in a property survey – sometimes these include a drainage layout showing private and shared sections,” says Callan. “That’s hit and miss, though; some homeowners get that information when they buy a property, others don’t.”</p><p>“You can also contact your local water authority, as they may have sewer maps showing where the public sewer starts, although that’s not guaranteed either,” Callan explains.</p><p>If you’re comfortable doing a bit of investigating yourself, Callan suggests you lift manhole covers on your property to see which direction the pipes run and whether they connect with neighbouring properties – though again, that’s only a rough guide.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:576px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="LEmPTWr2TmGoXcXtiW9bVW" name="Shared drainage GettyImages-1393237691" alt="Rugged metal street water utility cover" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LEmPTWr2TmGoXcXtiW9bVW.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="576" height="480" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/Catherine McQueen)</span></figcaption></figure><p>"If you suspect you’re sharing, a CCTV drainage company is the best way to find out," says Aaron. A drainage contractor can send a camera down the pipe to map where it runs and check its condition. These <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/drainage-surveys">drainage surveys</a> can reveal cracked pipes, root ingress, or hidden junctions, and they’re invaluable if you’re planning building work or dealing with repeated blockages.</p><p>“A professional drain survey isn’t as costly as people think – for an average house, you’re looking at around £300–£400. It’s worthwhile, especially before buying or selling a property or starting costly building work,” says Callan. “We use a tool called a Sonde, which acts as a locator for pre-construction surveys. The camera head at the end of our reel has a built-in locator, and we scan above ground to pinpoint exactly where the drain runs beneath the surface. It’s extremely accurate, even in terms of depth, so if builders need to dig, they’ll know whether the pipe is 300 millimetres down or half a metre down. It really helps them avoid damaging pipework during any construction.”</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-are-my-legal-responsibilities"><span>What are my legal responsibilities?</span></h3><p>If you discover you have shared drainage, you will need to get this mapped out if it isn't already. One of the more common reasons for shared drainage now is that a property or group of properties has been built with a communal <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-a-septic-tank">septic tank</a> or sewage system since it was originally deemed to expensive or complicated to connect the properties to public sewers.</p><p>"If you share drainage or a septic tank with neighbours, clear communication is key. A written agreement is a must and saves everyone a lot of awkward doorstep conversations later on," says Aaron Willcox. He advises including the following in any written agreement:</p><ul><li>Who’s responsible for arranging emptying and maintenance</li><li>How repair or upgrade costs are divided</li><li>When and how often servicing is carried out</li><li>Access arrangements for tankers or engineers</li></ul><p>"While this may seem like a tedious task, the good news is that a shared system can actually be cheaper to run. You all chip in for emptying, servicing and repairs," says Aaron.</p><p>"Although some people are put off by the idea of shared drainage, or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/off-mains-drainage">off-mains drainage</a> systems like a shared septic tank or sewage treatment plant, they do have their benefits," says Thomas Goodman at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://myjobquote.co.uk/" target="_blank"><u><strong>MyJobQuote.co.uk</strong></u></a>. To begin with, they take up less space, so you could retain more of your garden for growing plants and veggies."</p><p>"Then, you have the advantage of being able to share general maintenance costs, including emptying, servicing and upgrades. Another bonus is that with more people using the system, it’s less likely for a problem to go unnoticed."</p><p>You can expect these maintenance costs to total £200 to £300 per year, according to Callan Hill. "The main bit of maintenance is to remove what we call sludge, which sinks to the bottom of the tank, and builds up over time. Every six to 12 months – depending on how much the tank is used – you'll need to hire someone with a tanker to suck out basically all of the sludge so it doesn't block up and cause problems."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:576px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="WPpKJUgunCw5qTSuzhsNVD" name="Shared drainage GettyImages-1292879947" alt="Septic tank being pumped out with green tube" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WPpKJUgunCw5qTSuzhsNVD.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="576" height="480" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/Artur Henryk Bialosiewicz)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-to-do-if-you-are-building-over-or-near-shared-drains"><span>What to do if you are building over or near shared drains?</span></h3><p>Thinking about putting up an extension, conservatory, or a fancy new outdoor kitchen? If you’re building over or near a shared or public drain, you’ll need a<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-a-build-over-agreement"> Building Over Agreement</a> from your local water authority.</p><p>"This agreement basically ensures you don’t build something that stops them from accessing or repairing the drain later," says Aaron. "You’ll need to submit drawings and drainage plans, and they’ll usually carry out inspections before and after the work."</p><p>"Even for private drains, building control can require approval if the work is within one metre of a boundary or affects the drain’s structure," adds Callan. "Missing this step can cause major issues when selling a property, as mortgage lenders often ask for proof of permissions."</p><p>"Skip the paperwork, and you could face problems later, especially when it comes time to sell your home," Aaron warns. "So, as boring as forms can be, it’s better to tick the box now than dig up your patio later."</p><h2 id="requirements-for-a-building-over-agreement-2">Requirements for a Building Over Agreement</h2><p>"You’ll definitely need to get a Building Over Agreement if you wish to build within three metres of a public sewer or lateral drain that can’t be rerouted," says Thomas Goodman. And in some cases, as Callan has pointed out, you may need one for private drains. So before you start any work, it's worth commissioning a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/drainage-surveys" rel="nofollow">drainage survey</a> (as explained above) and consulting with a structural engineer.</p><p>"Before you can get an agreement, the water company that’s responsible for the pipes in question will usually carry out an assessment of the area first and may ask for trial holes to be dug, so they can accurately calculate the risks involved," Thomas adds. "Once they’re satisfied, an agreement can be drawn up. To help protect their assets, this may include strict guidelines on the method of construction you can use."</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.thameswater.co.uk" target="_blank">According to Thames Water</a>, there are typically three classes of build over agreement, depending on the size of the public sewer or lateral drain you wish to build over.</p><p>There are also a number of essential documents that you'll need to provide alongside your application. These include:</p><ul><li>A <strong>site map </strong>showing the boundary lines between yours, and any neighbouring properties.</li><li><strong>Ground floor plans</strong> showing both the existing and proposed building and drainage layout plan. This will incorporate sewer pipes, manholes, sewer flow direction, including any private connections onto the sewer.</li><li><strong>Sectional drawings</strong> showing the foundation design, sizing and depths in relation to the public sewer pipe.</li><li><strong>Proof of entitlement of disability benefit</strong> discount (eg. Blue Badge) if applicable.</li><li><strong>A piling method statement</strong> (If you’re planning to use piling foundations).</li><li><strong>Structural calculations for raft foundations</strong> (if used).</li></ul><p>As of October 2025, Thames Water charge the following for a Building Over Agreement application:<br><br>Class 1: £130 - the internal diameter of the sewer is 150mm/6 inches or less<br>Class 2: £440 - the internal diameter of the sewer is 151mm to 375mm/7 inches to 14 inches<br>Class 3: £520 - the internal diameter of the sewer is over 375mm/15 inches + (additional legal costs starting at £1,000)</p><p>These charges are updated on 1st April each year.<br></p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:576px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="jEVSYvoFD9TLWKzc58iECV" name="Shared drainage GettyImages-1248981038" alt="A wide-view shot of a residential building in Northeastern, England. A home delivery Box is at the front doorstep." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jEVSYvoFD9TLWKzc58iECV.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="576" height="480" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/SolStock)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-much-would-it-cost-to-connect-to-mains-drainage"><span>How much would it cost to connect to mains drainage?</span></h3><p>If the seeming hassle of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/installing-mains-drainage">installing off mains drainage</a> or shared drainage has left you considering creating a private drain that connects to public sewage directly, it's worth understanding the price and disruption of such a job.</p><p>"Connecting a property to the mains drainage system can seem like it's the most convenient solution, but it often comes with large upfront costs," says Callan. "The total expense depends on the distance from your property to the nearest public sewer, local authority fees, ground conditions, and whether roads or pavements need to be excavated."</p><p>Callan explains that mains connection costs usually range from around £5,000 to £15,000, but in some cases (particularly for rural properties far from the sewer network) it could exceed £20,000 once excavation, reinstatement, and connection charges are included.</p><p>"By comparison, a standard Septic tank installation for a single property would generally costs £3,000 to £7,000, including installation," he tells us. "However, ongoing maintenance such as emptying and inspection would add around £200 to £300 to that cost per year."</p><p>"Sewage treatment plants are more advanced and environmentally friendly than septic tanks, producing cleaner effluent," Callan says. "Installation typically costs between £6,000 to £15,000, with annual servicing and electricity costs of roughly £300 to £400."</p><p>In conclusion, while connecting to the mains offers long-term convenience and minimal maintenance, on-site systems can be more cost effective when sewer access is limited. The best option depends on factors such as local ground conditions, environmental regulations, and the property’s distance from the nearest main drain.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="who-owns-the-shared-drain-on-my-property-2">Who owns the shared drain on my property?</h2><p>"Unless you live in a flat or your lateral drains are unadopted, shared drains are the property of the local water company," says Thomas Goodman at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://myjobquote.co.uk/" target="_blank"><u><strong>MyJobQuote.co.uk</strong></u></a>. "So, the first point of call for locating them is to contact your local water company. They should be able to provide a map of where all the shared pipes run."</p><p>If your shared drains are unadopted or private, you own them and are therefore responsible for their upkeep and any repairs.</p><h2 id="what-are-my-responsibilities-for-a-shared-drain-2">What are my responsibilities for a shared drain?</h2><p>According to Thames Water: "You're responsible for all waste drainage pipes (such as gullies, gutters and drains) within your property boundary, so long as they serve just your property. If your drain joins up with your neighbours, we own the joint part."<br><br>If you spot an issue with the shared parts of the drain, you can report them to your local water company. <br><br>For issues in a Thames Water area, go to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.thameswater.co.uk/help/report-a-problem" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">'Report a Problem' section of the Thames Water website</a>.<br><br>Other water supplier links:<br></p><ul><li><a href="https://swcustomerportal.microsoftcrmportals.com/ReportAProblem/" target="_blank">Scottish Water 'Report a Problem' portal</a></li><li><a href="https://www.anglianwater.co.uk/your-local-area/report-an-issue/" target="_blank">Anglian Water 'Report an Issue' site</a></li><li><a href="https://www.southernwater.co.uk/report-a-problem/" target="_blank">Southern Water 'Report a Problem' site</a></li><li><a href="https://contact.dwrcymru.com/en/report-an-issue" target="_blank">Welsh Water 'Report an Issue site</a></li><li><a href="https://www.southwestwater.co.uk/household/help-support/report-a-problem" target="_blank">South West water 'Report a Problem' landing page</a></li><li><a href="https://www.nwl.co.uk/report" target="_blank">Northumbrian Water 'Report a Problem' web page</a></li><li><a href="https://www.unitedutilities.com/emergencies/got-a-problem/" target="_blank">United Utilities 'Got a Problem? web page</a></li></ul><h2 id="what-happens-if-a-shared-drain-gets-blocked-2">What happens if a shared drain gets blocked?</h2><p>When shared private drains become blocked, or there is an issue with your septic tank, it is the homeowners' responsibility to call out a drainage expert and all costs of fixing the issue should be shared between the affected parties. <br><br>In all other cases, you should contact your wastewater supplier as explained above.</p><h2 id="do-i-need-permission-to-build-near-a-shared-drain-2">Do I need permission to build near a shared drain?</h2><p>Yes, you will need permission in the form of a Building Over Agreement if you are building within three metres of a public sewer or lateral drain, within one metre of a property boundary, or anywhere that affects the drain’s structure. Costs vary between water suppliers, but expect to pay from £150 to upwards of £500 depending on the work involved. <br><br>Failure to get the right permissions from your water supplier and local building control department could esults in fines, and difficulties in selling your home in future. You may be required to pay to return the pipework and drainage to its original configuration.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/SuDS">SUDs</a> regulations mean it is now necessary to take steps to ensure your<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/driveway-drainage"> driveway drainage </a>is sufficient to avoid pooling or runoff from your property.</p><p>A <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/soakaways">soakaway</a> can be a good option for this in addition to measures such as a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-a-french-drain">French drain</a> or even a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/drainage-fields">drainage field</a>. Take a look at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/drainage-cost-guide">drainage costs</a> to start budgeting for your property.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/planning/shared-drains</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Understanding your drainage layout and responsibilities now will save you from financial and legal headaches in the future ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">XJHSRwzvtBQh2funCDuRBG</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JNfo5i3E25b5WEj9rJtahB-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Planning]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Amy Cutmore ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JNfo5i3E25b5WEj9rJtahB-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A row of contemporary terraced houses with wooden garage doors and gable end roofs]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A row of contemporary terraced houses with wooden garage doors and gable end roofs]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JNfo5i3E25b5WEj9rJtahB-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ ‘I love seeing the surprise on people’s faces when they first walk in’ – couple transform small bungalow into a three-storey home with magnificent sea views ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>As surprises go, a new home by the sea isn’t a bad one. In 2017 Ben and Ruth Prior, and their children, had been visiting the north Cornish coast for over a decade, renting homes each time.</p><p>"I just thought, 'Why don’t I buy one?’" says Ben, when he saw an older bungalow in their favourite village, one row back from the beach – the perfect place for a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/coastal-houses">coastal home</a>.</p><p>"I got the ball rolling without telling Ruth," says Ben. "She was somewhat shocked when I told her, but she loved it."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-project-details"><span>Project details</span></h3><ul><li><strong>Location</strong> Cornwall</li><li><strong>House type</strong> Concrete block, timber and steel frame</li><li><strong>House size</strong> 204sq m</li><li><strong>Build cost </strong>£1.3 million</li></ul><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="WpbefxS6UPDmAraLRokMPG" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_polzeath_view_2" alt="Garden and sea view from balcony" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WpbefxS6UPDmAraLRokMPG.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>'We used traditional materials, but presented them in a contemporary way'</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="yLPieoeq3MSrgncENepQf3" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_cassel_tarring_exterior_back_house_12" alt="Exterior of the house" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yLPieoeq3MSrgncENepQf3.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The couple levelled and landscaped the rear garden; previously, due to its slope, it had been largely unusable</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="2YMrAqAXgMDavRc5bnSM4Q" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_cassel_tarring_exterior_front_house_18" alt="Exterior of the front of the house" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2YMrAqAXgMDavRc5bnSM4Q.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The front is in a simple, unassuming style, with plenty of off-street parking space</em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-making-decisions"><span>Making decisions </span></h3><p>Being a bungalow, the property was quite small, with just two bedrooms and a garage, and from the off, Ben realised it wouldn’t be big enough to accommodate the family long term.</p><p>However, he resisted starting the process of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/demolish-and-replace">knocking it down and replacing</a> it, not least because it would mean they wouldn’t be able to use the property for a year or more. As a result, the Prior family enjoyed spending time in the bungalow after refurbishing and redecorating it, but in time, future considerations became more pressing.</p><p>After buying the bungalow in 2017, the couple had gained <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/planning-permission">planning permission</a> to replace it, and when Ben read about architect Michael Tarring’s work in the national press, he contacted him.</p><p>"We met and we got on well," says Ben. The existing plans had been passed but were due to expire in 2020. As time went by and the family’s needs changed, the obvious choice was to ask Michael for a redesign of the replacement property, focusing on space and maximising the sea views.</p><p>"Height was important so that we would be able to see the sea," says Ben, "so I didn’t want a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/pitched-roof-extension">pitched roof</a>; it was really all about the space." As a result, Michael designed a spectacular contemporary three-storey home with five bedrooms, and lots of glazing to create panoramic sea views from the top two floors.</p><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="sSgL7PUPNiQxbeN7KwAPJg" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_polzeath_sitting_room_12" alt="Living room with a sea view" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sSgL7PUPNiQxbeN7KwAPJg.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>Furnishings that are both contemporary and comfortable are key to the interior design, with plenty of natural wood and a restful colour scheme</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="hi7DbwmFUVjRJAD9K3Pq3E" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_polzeath_kitchen_5" alt="Open-plan kitchen and dining area" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hi7DbwmFUVjRJAD9K3Pq3E.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>A three-metre island with white Silestone worktop and bar seating takes centre stage in the kitchen area, while natural light floods through obscured-glass splashbacks </em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="StvQpMbXtNMp8amQGcBWi9" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_polzeath_double_bedroom_2_2" alt="Yellow and navy bedroom with sliding doors that lead onto a balcony" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/StvQpMbXtNMp8amQGcBWi9.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>As with all the bedrooms at the rear of the ground floor, this space opens out onto the large communal terrace</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="5VExUZAhbDNqRRbgAB9gmE" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_polzeath_double_bedroom_2_ensuite_2" alt="Shower room with toilet, sink and blue feature tiled wall" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5VExUZAhbDNqRRbgAB9gmE.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>Geometric tiles in a soft blue give the main en suite a contemporary look</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="qu6MLR2jY3JaLprUi7uSXV" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_polzeath_middle_balcony_4" alt="Bedroom with blue and white colour scheme" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qu6MLR2jY3JaLprUi7uSXV.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>With its five bedrooms, the house can sleep up to 10 people</em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-amended-plans"><span>Amended plans</span></h3><p>Rather than begin a whole new planning application, Michael achieved the permission as an amendment to the existing plans. The newly proposed property was broadly similar to the previous design, as both were contemporary in style.</p><p>However, the new plans managed to reduce the ridge height and the footprint, thanks to the addition of the lower-ground floor. Also, the contemporary design responds to the varied and changing property styles seen all around this particular village, which has seen a boost in popularity in recent years.</p><p>"We used traditional materials but presented them in a contemporary way," says Michael, "and there is also a local precedent for extensive glazing."</p><p>As the sea views lie to the north, which is at the rear of the house, the windows to the south, plus <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/how-to-choose-rooflights">rooflights</a>, improve the quality of light internally. Meanwhile, frosted-glass windows and screened openings protect the surrounding neighbours’ privacy either side.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="qdpnXfSxz9Lk7wKH28rL4e" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_cassel_tarring_interior_staricase_19" alt="Staircase opposite the front door, with light coming through the window opposite" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qdpnXfSxz9Lk7wKH28rL4e.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The house offers plenty of natural light</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-eco-considerations"><span>Eco considerations</span></h3><p>Sustainability was also key for Ben and Ruth. In addition to wanting a highly insulated property constructed from low embodied-energy materials – that is, materials with a low carbon footprint – the couple also invested in modern eco-friendly technology.</p><p>In such an airtight building, it makes sense to have a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system to ensure stale air is expelled and fresh air constantly circulates. The property is primarily heated via an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pumps">air source heat pump</a>.</p><p>"There’s a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/log-burning-stoves">woodburner</a> in the living area but we never need to light it," says Ben. But one tweak was necessary – given that the property can sleep up to 10 people, they occasionally found the hot water required outstripped the supply the system could produce. "So I fitted a second tank with an immersion heater," says Ben.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="VTG74Vyb9BvajvJN69YrtP" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_cassel_tarring_interior_sitting_room_1" alt="In-wall firewood log box" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VTG74Vyb9BvajvJN69YrtP.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The living area features a woodburner</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-local-skills"><span>Local skills</span></h3><p>Living at a distance and with limited experience in building works, Ben and Ruth decided to hire a main contractor to run the build. After the tender process, the couple chose local firm <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://doyleandwhitley.co.uk/" target="_blank">Doyle and Whitley</a>, whose background lay in boatbuilding. "They weren’t the cheapest quote," says Ben. "But I felt they were honest, and they could make anything."</p><p>Starting work in 2020 had, because of Covid, implications for rising costs. The Priors, however, were lucky. "The builders honoured the quote, despite the rises," says Ben. "They had bought the wood already and we just about got away with it."</p><p>Despite this, some costs did go up due in part, Ben admits, to their changes in specification. The couple added essential landscaping work to the garden, as it had previously been little more than an unusable slope. "I think we made sensible decisions; we didn’t go cheap, but we didn’t go crazy, either," says Ben.</p><p>The couple were happy with the contractors and, from the beginning, used local tradespeople and suppliers on principle. "We were keen to do this, even if we found it cheaper online," says Ben.</p><p>Another local business that benefited from the project was interior designer Claire Alderson of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.pebbledesigninteriors.com/" target="_blank">Pebble Design</a>, who Ben and Ruth brought in when they struggled to decide on decorative finishes. "Claire was brilliant," says Ben. "She gave us three choices on everything and really sped up the process."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="LUhvo8xckJzxqEJpVv6TNf" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_polzeath_garden_7" alt="Garden patio area with hot tub, wooden fence, outdoor sofa and deck chairs" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LUhvo8xckJzxqEJpVv6TNf.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The property is also available as a holiday let through </em><a href="https://www.perfectstays.co.uk/our-properties" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>Perfect Stays</em></a> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-high-point"><span>High point</span></h3><p>For Ben, the best part of the project was seeing the view from the upper floors for the first time. "I was paranoid that we wouldn’t get the view,’ says Ben. "I had to be sure it would be worth what we had spent."</p><p>"The whole back of the house is glass and I love seeing people’s faces when they walk in," says Ben. "When the sun sets, you never get bored of it, especially with the waves crashing on the rocks."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="4GfaWs4gSUvR4sjQG8rBNW" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_cassel_tarring_exterior_balcony_11" alt="Chairs on the balcony overlooking sea views" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4GfaWs4gSUvR4sjQG8rBNW.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The property has spectacular views of the sea</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doog Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-spotlight-on-building-on-a-slope"><span>Spotlight on building on a slope</span></h3><p>Michael Tarring, project architect says, "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-build-on-a-sloping-site">Constructing a property on sloping ground </a>brings several challenges to the building process, but at the same time provides great opportunities to what can be achieved.</p><p>"The existing house was a post-war detached bungalow, approximately 100sq m in size, located on a linear site between neighbouring properties. Due to its prime coastal location, the client wanted to maximise the site’s potential. By utilising the slope of the site and sinking the building into the landscape, a 304sq m contemporary new-build home was achieved within the planning constraints.</p><p>"The key to high-risk builds such as this is to ensure that great consideration and up-front planning is given to both the structural design, architectural detailing and the build process itself, while also ensuring a specialist groundworks contractor is appointed.</p><p>"Ground surveys are required to ensure the foundation and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/retaining-wall-ideas">retaining wall</a> designs are well suited to the local conditions, while it is beneficial for the above-ground structure to be efficient and lightweight.</p><p>"The resulting design was a hybrid structure of concrete retaining walls and masonry to the lower-ground floor, with a lightweight steel and timber structure for the ground and first floors. This allowed for the expansive openings and large spans."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="ZLnbA6rMNZZiwiKnG2trGA" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_polzeath_middle_balcony_6" alt="View from the side of the house" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZLnbA6rMNZZiwiKnG2trGA.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The design utilises the slope of the site</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-build-decision"><span>Best build decision</span></h3><p>"This has to be adding the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/gaming-room-ideas">games room</a> on the lower-ground floor, leading out to the garden," says Ben. "It meant we could treat the garden as another 'room' and the extra space downstairs is perfect for the whole family. Another great decision was to invest in calling in the experts, such as the architect, builders and interior designer. They add value, save you money in the long run and provide you with peace of mind."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="roeyynVdKGJiJ5CTxnAmQY" name="HBR226.rp_prior.doon_williams_trelorna_cassel_tarring_interior_games_room_3" alt="Games room with pool table and bar" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/roeyynVdKGJiJ5CTxnAmQY.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The games room on the lower-ground floor has direct access to the garden. With its TV lounge seating and kitchen and bar area, it’s ideal for all the family</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Doon Williams)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Now, with Ruth and Ben considering future retirement plans in the property, the whole family spends large parts of the year on the Cornish coast, enjoying their seaside home, the space and the magnificent views.</p><p>For more inspiration, take a look around this couple’s <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/house-tours/herefordshire-oak-frame-new-build">oak frame new build</a>, which they designed as their forever home.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/house-tours/three-storey-modern-self-build-in-cornwall</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Ben and Ruth Prior replaced a coastal bungalow with a contemporary self-build to maximise family living space and views of the Cornish coastline ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">rC51GwpZ8MWndkDABXYkMq</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jCUsRL9vba24cjX6GrJCo3-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[House Tours]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Alexandra Pratt ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jCUsRL9vba24cjX6GrJCo3-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Doon Williams]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Exterior of the house, featuring the lawn, decking and hot tub with deck chairs]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Exterior of the house, featuring the lawn, decking and hot tub with deck chairs]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jCUsRL9vba24cjX6GrJCo3-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Not sure of the difference between quarter turns, spirals and winders? We explore the types of staircase you can choose for your home ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If you're building or renovating a house, or even adding a loft conversion, you'll need to understand the types of staircases available and where each type is suitable for use.</p><p>Choose incorrectly, and you could find yourself with no feasible route between the different floors within your home. Or, with an unsafe <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/staircase-design-guide">staircase design</a> that's not fit for purpose.</p><p>In this article we'll outline the main types of staircase you can pick from, show examples of how they look and share expert advice on what types of home and location they suit the most.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-choosing-a-staircase"><span>Choosing a staircase</span></h3><p>Before we go into the different types of staircase, it's not just the shape that will need to form part of your decision making process.</p><p>“Choosing the right type of staircase can feel like a minefield," agrees Kenny Macfarlane, Managing Director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://handrailcreations.co.uk/" target="_blank">Handrail Creations</a>. "It needs to be safe, durable, and visually consistent with the rest of the space. There’s a huge array of designs, materials and added bespoke features to choose from."</p><p>On the upside, there isn't always a right or wrong answer about how they look, but there is an importance to making sure your staircase meets the rules set out in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/structure/approved-document-k">Approved Document K</a> of the building regulations.</p><p>“There’s no such thing as a 'best' choice for staircase configurations and layouts," confirms Lucie Levesley, director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.jacksonwoodturners.co.uk/" target="_blank">Jackson Woodturners</a>. "The best choice will individual to each project and depend on a few key factors such as the floor and landing space available, size of the room, style chosen and safety considerations."</p><p>"When it comes to staircase design, form of course follows function, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style," adds Mike Edwards, sales and project developer at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.completestairsystems.co.uk/" target="_blank">Complete Stair Systems</a>.</p><p>That said, while style and look matter, it starts with the basics and, "there are four classic staircase configurations to consider," explains Mike. "Straight, quarter turn, half turn, and spiral. Each offers its own advantages depending on the layout and character of your home."</p><p>Bespoke options are also available in the form of split or curved staircases for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/self-build">self builds</a> where space and size maybe less of an issue.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="QVQfY5gCrXduoLLawc9GvZ" name="types of staircase_woodworx-8826405-gbp-139-00-woodworx-premium---dri" alt="black painted staircase with metal handrail on side wall" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QVQfY5gCrXduoLLawc9GvZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Wider staircases may need an additional wall handrail that completes the type of staircase you install</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Woodworx)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-types-of-staircases"><span>Types of staircases</span></h3><h2 id="1-straight-staircases-2">1. Straight staircases</h2><p>Straight staircases are, as the name suggests, stairs that start on one floor and go upwards in one straight line to the next floor. There will be no breaks, turns or small landing areas halfway up and they are a simple but effective way of moving through a house.</p><p>"Straight flight stairs are ideal for period properties with narrow hallways," says Mike Edwards. "Their linear design allows for efficient vertical movement while preserving valuable space on both the landing and the hallway below."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="DjHvpaMTeKzQYfmMf93ExZ" name="types of staircase_Black Metal Straight 6" alt="straight staircase with black edged sisal stair runner, modern wooden handrail, black spindles" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DjHvpaMTeKzQYfmMf93ExZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Straight staircases can suit all type of home, but are a particularly good choice for narrow hallways</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jackson Woodturners)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="2-quarter-turn-and-half-turn-2">2. Quarter turn and half turn</h2><p>Where straight staircases aren't an option, the most common solution is to introduce one or more turns into the design. These can be referred to a number of different ways.</p><p>Quarter turn or L-shaped for staircases that have one turn at 90°, or half turn or U-shaped for those staircases that have a full 180° return in them.</p><p>But where do they work best?</p><p>"Quarter turn and half turn staircases are particularly useful in homes where space is at a premium, or the layout presents challenges," advises Mike Edwards. "A quarter turn staircase, for instance, can occupy the same footprint as a straight flight, but the change in direction helps guide movement more naturally through the home, making it perfect for redirecting traffic flow to a more desirable entry or exit point."</p><p>"L-shaped or quarter-turn stairs with a landing that creates a 90° turn are also great for dividing spaces," says Kenny Macfarlane, "while a U-shaped staircase that uses a landing to create a 180-degree turn makes a practical choice for navigating tight corners. Staircases need to be personalised to maximise functionality and aesthetic appeal, and U-shaped stairs can do both in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/narrow-hallway-ideas">narrow hallways</a>, too."</p><p>However, while they can reduce the staircase height, they may require more space in other ways, adds Lucie Levesley.</p><p>“L or U-shaped staircases have a bend which can help reduce the amount of linear space needed, but may require more space in terms of width."</p><p>That said, they also have an additional benefit she explains, stating how, "the bend at the corners can also act as a rest spot, acting as a safety feature for reducing the impact from falls.”</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="6k4dD8QgvUxojku6unE5MY" name="case study cuva 15 Deerswood" alt="New staircase in a self build home with metal frame and glass panels" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6k4dD8QgvUxojku6unE5MY.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Staircases with turns can help navigate awkward spaces, or simply add an extra design detail to your entrance</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Richard Chivers)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="3-winder-or-spiral-staircases-2">3. Winder or spiral staircases</h2><p>Unlike the other types of staircases, winder or spiral staircases aren't linear in nature, using curves instead to get the user from A to B. However, less common than the other types of staircases, they are generally used for accessibility or aesthetic reasons.</p><p>“Winder or spiral staircases are often used for basement and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-loft-conversion">loft conversions</a>, where landing space is limited," says Lucie Levesley.</p><p>"Spiral stairs can be a space-efficient option," agrees Kenny Macfarlane, "as this design works with the space you have. Winder staircases in particular are able to change direction. The triangular or wedge-shaped treads are used instead of a landing, making it a fantastic way to save space with its compact design."</p><p>However, despite their striking design, they are often less practical. "These staircases can be less accessible for some," advises Lucy Levesley. "They are often steeper with narrower treads, which can be more challenging for users."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="BdEyFCCE4ALDEcAMuA7RfZ" name="types of staircase_image00002" alt="spiral wooden and glass staircase leading to mezzanine floor in contemporary home" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BdEyFCCE4ALDEcAMuA7RfZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Spiral staircases are ideal for reaching mezzanines, basements or loft conversions</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Complete Stair Systems)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-bespoke-staircases"><span>Bespoke staircases</span></h3><p>Of course, if your hallway design is on the larger scale and there are restrictions regarding height or width, then you also have the option to create a more bespoke staircase that befits your entrance.</p><p>“A staircase is a handshake when entering a home, which is why many people opt for a more grandiose designs for aesthetics," says Kenny Macfarlane.</p><p>"Curved stairs offer this elegance and grand first impression, although they are usually more suitable for large homes and big commercial properties where luxury is the top priority.</p><p>"Split stairs are also popular in luxurious, large properties," he adds. "They start with one wide set of steps that splits off into two smaller sets of flights going in opposite directions, and are popular where there’s plenty of space. They can create an impressive focal point in the main entrance of the home.”</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.29%;"><img id="NNBdyZg7r4BtXXD8RQytNZ" name="types of staircase_Avery - Handrail" alt="split staircase in entrance hall with tiled stairs, metal handrail and spindles" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NNBdyZg7r4BtXXD8RQytNZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="1999" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Bespoke staircases such as split designs can add drama to a grand hallway</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Handrail Creations)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="shop-staircase-kits-and-handrails-2">Shop staircase kits and handrails</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="8f37120d-9ef0-409f-9cf8-bc59b547ecea"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/forgeworks-premium-matt-black-3-6m-indoor-stair-handrail-kit-easy-install-all-in-one-box-with-brackets-endcaps-5yr-guarantee/5060729159453_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Forgeworks Premium Matt Black 3.6m Indoor Stair Handrail Kit" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cF7FD8noyfq4uMGxZHMeBL.jpg' alt="black handrail on grey wall"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Easy to install</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Forgeworks Premium Matt Black 3.6m Indoor Stair Handrail Kit</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A 3.6m long handrail that's easy to assemble without need to drill the rails. Everything you need to install it comes securely in one box</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="371f8600-22f6-4b68-b64f-03ed32c82c7b"> <a href="https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/334971288935?" data-model-name="Cheshire Stair Kit Barley Twist Stair Landing Kit " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dG2M7eHyfKHNTQHJbhp2NX.jpg' alt="Cheshire Stair Kit Barley Twist Stair Landing Kit Oak Pine Posts Spindles Rails"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Full kit</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Cheshire Stair Kit Barley Twist Stair Landing Kit </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>An all-in-one stair kit that contains everything required to update your existing stair area, stress-free</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="e60d647f-7fbe-44f1-b36e-7141fb0e8a93"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/CHZDPP-Adjustable-Staircase-Remodeling-Customizable/dp/B0DBZ1QQCX?th=1" data-model-name="Chzdpp Angle Adjustable Metal Stair Spindles " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/aHWaWE6XxVSK9w8yNYz9Nm.jpg' alt="Chzdpp Angle Adjustable Metal Stair Spindles for Prevent Falling, Staircase Balusters for Lofts/hotel/villas/office Stairs Remodeling, Customizable Baluster Column(black(style A),60cm/23.6in/2ft)"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Spindle update</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Chzdpp Angle Adjustable Metal Stair Spindles </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Add safety and a modern touch to your staircase with these adjustable metal stair spindles</p></p> </div> </div> </div><p>Once you've established the type of staircase you need, there are then are also a myriad of aesthetic decisions to make regarding their style. Open or closed risers? <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/floating-staircases">Floating staircase</a> or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/wooden-staircase-ideas">wooden staircase</a>? Will you have <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/painted-stairs-ideas">painted stairs</a> or tiled treads? For more inspiration, you can head to our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/modern-staircase-ideas">staircase ideas</a> article where you'll find over 40 different ideas to choose from.</p><p>Kenny Macfarlane also suggests thinking of your handrail as a starting point as it impacts both the look and functionality of every type of staircase.</p><p>“Handrails have a huge impact on the aesthetic appeal as well as the functionality of the staircase and impact the overall feel of the space. Wooden handrails are among the most popular; they can be carved, sanded, stained or painted to fit the aesthetic vision in a way metal can’t.</p><p>"Metal handrails are typically found in modern homes and commercial properties, and there are multiple options for metal handrails, with the most popular elements being stainless steel, wrought-iron and brass. Selecting the final finish depends on the usage and aesthetic one wants to achieve," says Kenny.</p><p>And, as final words of advice, as staircases are an integral part of your<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/hall-stairs-and-landing-ideas"> hallway and landing ideas</a>, make sure that your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/staircase-lighting-ideas">staircase lighting ideas</a> are both safe and stylish, and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/hallway-flooring-ideas">hallway flooring</a> you choose will work well with your final staircase design too.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/hallway/types-of-staircase</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Selecting the right type of staircase isn't just about how it looks. It's about understanding which one will fit and get you safely from one floor to another ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">Zs6HbErDL8AF28Ps2qcCcZ</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uNjtqDupmbVpkpxfjQ8JvY-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Hallway]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ sarah.harley@futurenet.com (Sarah Harley) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Sarah Harley ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uNjtqDupmbVpkpxfjQ8JvY-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Jackson Woodturners]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[hallway with L shaped carpeted stairs and wooden spindles]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[hallway with L shaped carpeted stairs and wooden spindles]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uNjtqDupmbVpkpxfjQ8JvY-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ This unusual mortgage perk could make your home warmer — and greener ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Homeowners taking out a Lloyds mortgage can now get their heating upgraded for free.</p><p>The bank has partnered with Octopus Energy to cover the full cost of installing an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pumps">air-source heat pump</a>, the first time a UK lender has bundled such a green incentive into a mortgage.</p><p>The move marks a major step in how banks are helping Britain meet its climate goals, as government schemes struggle to spark enthusiasm for low-carbon heating.</p><h2 id="a-first-for-uk-mortgages-2">A first for UK mortgages </h2><p>From this week, Lloyds Bank customers who apply for a mortgage can also apply for a free heat pump installation, provided their home has a C or D-rated <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-an-epc">EPC</a>.</p><p>The offer is part of a limited-time partnership with Octopus Energy and runs until November 24. Eligible borrowers must also qualify for the government’s <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/boiler-upgrade-scheme">Boiler Upgrade Scheme</a>, which provides £7,500 towards the cost of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pump-installation">installation</a>.</p><p>While other lenders, including Barclays and Nationwide, have offered cashback or low-interest “green loans,” none have gone as far as to fully cover <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pump-costs">air-source heat pump costs,</a> making this a genuine market first.</p><h2 id="a-push-to-revive-britain-s-heat-pump-drive-2">A push to revive Britain’s heat pump drive </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:874px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:110.53%;"><img id="zejgxSNfKJBCDjXno5k6N4" name="zejgxSNfKJBCDjXno5k6N4.jpg" alt="A modern purple heat pump displayed prominently, highlighting innovative energy solutions in the context of Octopus Energy's financing options." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/zejgxSNfKJBCDjXno5k6N4.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="874" height="966" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Octopus already offer some free heat pumps via its </em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/Cosy-Octopus"><em>Cosy Octopus </em></a><em>scheme</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Unknown)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Despite generous subsidies, heat pump installations have lagged behind government ambitions.</p><p>Britain has only around 19 heat pumps per 1,000 homes, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/uk-heat-pump-market-reaches-historic-milestone-but-is-still-lagging-behind-its-european-neighbours">far fewer heat pumps than many European nations</a>, and ministers have already scaled back earlier pledges to install 600,000 units a year by 2028.</p><p>By linking the technology directly to home finance, Lloyds hopes to remove one of the biggest barriers, the upfront cost, while also gathering data on whether mortgage-linked incentives can speed up green retrofits.</p><h2 id="what-it-means-for-homeowners-and-rivals-2">What it means for homeowners and rivals</h2><p>For eligible borrowers, the offer could save thousands of pounds on installation and lower their energy bills over time.</p><p>But analysts say the move also signals a shift in how Britain’s high street banks view their role in the net zero transition, from simply rewarding efficiency to actively funding it.</p><p>“This marks a turning point for mainstream lenders,” said Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at Hargreaves Lansdown. “Banks are starting to see home energy upgrades not just as environmental add-ons, but as a way to future-proof their loan books.”</p><p>Competitors are expected to watch closely. With rivals like Barclays, Santander and Nationwide already experimenting with smaller “green mortgage” perks, Lloyds’ partnership with Octopus Energy could set off a new phase in the race to make home finance more sustainable.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/heat-pump/this-unusual-mortgage-perk-could-make-your-home-warmer-and-greener</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Lloyds Bank becomes the first UK lender to offer a free heat pump installation with its mortgages, in a bold move to turn home loans into a tool for tackling climate change ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">UxEe9Us2yGCoxL8i3Kt2X4</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AiUHqRaabiNDMTNFGf4KzM-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Heat Pump]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AiUHqRaabiNDMTNFGf4KzM-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Octopus Energy Trains Heat-Pump Installation Teams At Facility In Slough]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Octopus Energy Trains Heat-Pump Installation Teams At Facility In Slough]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AiUHqRaabiNDMTNFGf4KzM-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Your four-step guide to blocking up a fireplace for a flawless finish ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The most common reason for blocking up a fireplace is to tidy up an old opening, left from the removal of an old fireplace and its surround.</p><p>While there are plenty of beautiful <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/fireplace-ideas">fireplace ideas</a> out there to suit all kinds of interior schemes, in some cases it makes more sense to create a flush finish instead. In some cases, just partially blocking up a fireplace opening can be required where a new type of fire is being installed.</p><p>Whatever your reasons for blocking up a fireplace might be, our simple-to-follow guide is here to explain everything you need to know in order to get the job done, for a flawless final finish.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-is-blocking-up-a-fireplace-a-good-idea"><span>Is blocking up a fireplace a good idea?</span></h3><p>With so many beautiful <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/empty-fireplace-ideas">empty fireplace ideas</a> to choose from, you might well be wondering why anyone would go to the trouble of blocking up a fireplace. However, there are several reasons why some homeowners choose to tackle the task, largely based around solving the issue of heat loss caused by chimneys.</p><p>"We have dealt many fireplaces, from totally removing them to bricking them up," picks up Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT) and director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://acdesignsolution.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AC Design Solution</a>, Zaeem Chaudhary. "The main reason why people brick up the fireplace and chimney is to eliminate heat loss, as well as to prevent damp forming within the unused chimney. Another reason is to provide more usable wall space."</p><p>While there are benefits to be had from blocking up a redundant fireplace, the job needs to be carried out properly in order to avoid causing issues elsewhere within the home.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="ziYd2BW24kGptJ4NbB4cJf" name="GettyImages-924077448" alt="old disused fireplace with stick on white brick cladding" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ziYd2BW24kGptJ4NbB4cJf.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>In some cases, there are many advantages to blocking up an old, now disused, fireplace </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-to-block-up-a-fireplace"><span>How to block up a fireplace</span></h2><p>Just as when <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/opening-up-a-fireplace">opening up a fireplace</a>, this is a job that many homeowners undertake on a DIY basis. However, to ensure that you are not causing more problems than you're solving by blocking up the fireplace, you need to understand that the job isn't just a case of bricking up the existing opening and walking away.</p><p>There are several steps that go into making this type of project a success so make sure you follow them closely in order to make the job worthwhile.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-remove-the-back-boiler-if-present"><span>1. Remove the back boiler if present</span></h3><p>When <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/renovating-a-house-complete-guide">renovating an old house</a>, you might find a back boiler within your fireplace.</p><p>"A back boiler is an old-fashioned heating system that uses heat from the fire to warm water for both domestic use and for the central heating," explains Neil Griffiths, director of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.foxleybuilding.co.uk/" target="_blank">Foxley Building Co.</a> "Before blocking up the fireplace this needs to be removed, once the plumbing has been isolated and disconnected."</p><p>There is no need to remove the fireback before bricking up starts – this can simply be left in place.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-don-t-forget-about-ventilation"><span>2. Don't forget about ventilation</span></h3><p>When blocking up a fireplace you will need to ensure you incorporate some kind of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/ventilation">ventilation</a>. Without this you can run into all kinds of issues with damp and, eventually, mould within your old chimney.</p><p>"Inadequate ventilation eventually leads to chimney rot," warns Zaeem Chaudhary.</p><p>"In order to avoid moisture building up in the chimney space, where it collects on soot deposits, ventilation needs to be put into place," explains Neil Griffiths. "This is simple just by incorporating an airbrick as you go about bricking up the old opening."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-cap-and-sweep-the-chimney"><span>3. Cap and sweep the chimney</span></h3><p>You want to ensure that, after your fireplace has been blocked up, debris, bird droppings and even the birds themselves, can't find their way down the chimney and into the new void that your fireplace removal has left behind.</p><p>"Capping the chimney allows for ventilation at the same time as keeping rain, dirt etc. out," explains Neil Griffiths. "The simplest method is to fit a chimney cowl with ventilation to the top of the pot."</p><p>It is fairly rare to remove the entire chimney, but where <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-remove-a-chimney-breast">chimney breast removal </a>is being undertaken, specialist input will be required.</p><p>"Sometimes partial removal to the roof line is carried out," says Zaeem Chaudhary. "Full removal needs planning permission and is major structural work."</p><p>Finally, it is wise to give the chimney a final sweep before blocking up commences. Leave the damper (if there is one) in an open position for additional ventilation.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="2ptn2MW3rjoeFkJgtpdZ4" name="GettyImages-1261878207" alt="man in overalls sweeping a chimney" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2ptn2MW3rjoeFkJgtpdZ4.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>It is a good idea to give the chimney a final sweep before blocking up commences</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="041896f1-c734-4a50-92c6-7da408f2a7c6"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07PG24SV4/ref=sspa_dk_detail_4?" data-model-name="De Vielle Bird guard cowl" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BFcJzBUX9gyZrsRVwzHhj6.jpg' alt="terracotta coloured chimney cowl"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">De Vielle Bird guard cowl</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This terracotta-coloured chimney cowl is designed to be easy to fit and to keep all kinds of unwanted dirt and debris out of your blocked up fireplace. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-brick-up-the-opening"><span>4. Brick up the opening</span></h3><p>With the old opening clear, ventilated and clean, it is time to begin the task of bricking the fireplace up. Neil Griffiths takes us through the steps.</p><ol start="1"><li>Lay the first row of bricks, leaving around 1cm between each. This should give you an idea of whether you will need to cut bricks before you start. Bear in mind that each brick on the subsequent rows will need to be centred over the mortar joint of the brick below.</li><li>Slightly dampen the brickwork surrounding the opening to make it easier for the mortar to adhere to.</li><li>Lay the first row of bricks on a bed of mortar (made using a mixture of 4:1 sand and cement.) Remember to apply mortar to the ends of the bricks and the sides of the opening.</li><li>Don't forget to fit the airbrick. Centrally in the third row is a good spot, or somewhere it won't be obstructed by the new skirting. It should sit a little proud of the rest of the bricks, in line with the plasterwork of the surrounding wall. Use a straight edge to help.</li><li>When you get to the top row of bricks, if you find that full height bricks won't fit, you can use broken pieces of brick or roof tile, set within mortar, to fill the gap.</li><li>Once the mortar has dried, the brickwork can be plastered over (avoiding the airbrick) and new skirting fitted for a tidy finish.</li></ol><h2 id="shop-tools-for-blocking-up-a-fireplace-2">Shop tools for blocking up a fireplace</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="def9b4d3-8dc1-48c6-ad7b-2af56a351e18"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Circular-Saw-1200W-High-Power-Heavy-Duty/dp/B0F3D8PMPT/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?" data-model-name="DEKOPRO High-Power Saw" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GXonpyWCmCFq7vAaUTvv4b.jpg' alt="Deko circular saw"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">DEKOPRO High-Power Saw</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Circular saws come in handy for all kinds of DIY jobs, including cutting bricks to fit perfectly into a fireplace opening in need of blocking up. This one is particularly easy to use thanks to it being cordless. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="86ece548-b16e-4f54-a751-08046ac956d7"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/magnusson-pointing-trowel-l-152mm/5059340002774_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Magnusson Pointing trowel " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8fzHhXq6xAc8ojDjn3cJbA.jpg' alt="bricklaying trowel"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Magnusson Pointing trowel </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>With its soft grip handle and finger guard, this trowel will come in handy for all kinds of tasks, from laying bricks into your fireplace to repointing small areas of brickwork. It measures 152mm in length.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="002cf218-ae5c-4fdf-83df-8ed3dd5b0c41"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/blue-circle-mastercrete-grey-cement-12-5kg-handy-bag/1487206_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Blue Circle Mastercrete Grey Cement" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ADTJCdTgKtzCn4CBDmXWsd.jpg' alt="small back of cement"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Blue Circle Mastercrete Grey Cement</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>The ideal size for smaller DIY jobs, this 12.5kg pack of cement is perfect for both interior and exterior jobs, giving a smooth finish and long-lasting results. Another bonus is the waterproof packaging which keeps it dry until needed. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="is-blocking-up-a-fireplace-with-plasterboard-a-good-idea-2">Is blocking up a fireplace with plasterboard a good idea?</h2><p>Some people choose to block up a fireplace using plasterboard rather than bricks. In this case, you will need to construct a timber frame around the inside of the opening, setting it back slightly, the same thickness as the board.</p><p>Screw the plasterboard to the battens (ensuring you have read up on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/drilling-into-plasterboard">drilling into plasterboard</a> first) and fit a ventilator board towards the bottom. It is a good idea to add reinforcement with tape around the edges of the board, before skimming over the whole thing.</p><p>While this method is simple, bear in mind that, for larger openings, more than 600mm in width, you will need to fit an additional, central batten, to strengthen the boarding up. A bricked up opening offers a more solid solution.</p><p>Many homeowners carrying out this task also look into <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-plaster-a-wall">how to plaster a wall</a> given the smaller nature of the task after blocking up a fireplace.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/fireplace/blocking-up-a-fireplace</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Whether you want to keep out draughts or have exciting new plans for your chimney breast, our guide to blocking up a fireplace explains everything you need to know ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">cME2hJBdz5jybTeoLZEu4S</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BJJYgaFaBwXJapcg2hLrva-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 16 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Fireplace]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Living Room]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Natasha Brinsmead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BJJYgaFaBwXJapcg2hLrva-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Old exposed brick wall with disused fireplace ]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Old exposed brick wall with disused fireplace ]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BJJYgaFaBwXJapcg2hLrva-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ The Inbetweeners are back, here’s how much Will’s iconic home could be worth today ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Fans of <em>The Inbetweeners</em> have reason to celebrate, as the iconic series is set to return to screens.</p><p>While we’ll soon see Will, Simon, Jay, and Neil back in action, many are wondering how much the suburban home that sparked so many awkward teen moments would be worth today.</p><p>Thanks to soaring UK <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/house-prices">house prices</a>, Will McKenzie's famous semi-detached home has absolutely soared in value.</p><h2 id="will-s-house-sees-172-increase-2">Will’s House sees 172% increase</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="nRzfWps2guaZcnF3a6ghtj" name="GettyImages-2225473311 (1)" alt="Simon Bird, Joe Thomas, Blake Harrison and James Buckley at an awards ceremony" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nRzfWps2guaZcnF3a6ghtj.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Simon Bird, Joe Thomas, Blake Harrison and James Buckley have all agreed to come back for a revival of the hit Channel 4 show</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The McKenzie residence, featured prominently in <em>The Inbetweeners</em>, was filmed at 4 Whitley Close in Abbots Langley, Hertfordshire. Back in 2008, the property's value was estimated at £240,000.</p><p>Fast forward to 2025, and its value has surged to approximately £653,000, reflecting a 172% increase over 17 years, according to home insurance advisors <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.alanboswell.com/personal-insurance/home-property-insurance/unoccupied-property-insurance/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Alan Boswell Group</a>.</p><p>This rise mirrors the broader trend in suburban areas near London, where demand for family homes has driven up prices.</p><h2 id="why-ruislip-remains-desirable-2">Why Ruislip remains desirable </h2><p>While the actual filming location is in Abbots Langley, the character Will McKenzie is portrayed as living in Ruislip, a suburban area in West London.</p><p>As of October 2025, the average house price in Ruislip is approximately £642,688, marking a 13.65% increase year-on-year, again according to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.alanboswell.com/personal-insurance/home-property-insurance/unoccupied-property-insurance/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Alan Boswell Group</a>.</p><p>This area is known for its good schools, green spaces, and excellent transport links to central London, making it a desirable location for families and commuters alike.</p><h2 id="the-return-of-the-inbetweeners-could-spark-extra-buzz-2">The return of The Inbetweeners could spark extra buzz </h2><p>The announcement of <em>The Inbetweeners</em> making a return has already reignited fan nostalgia, and interest in filming locations tends to rise with it.</p><p>While the series alone won’t double the house price overnight, homes linked to beloved shows often get a boost in attention, turning them into minor celebrity properties in their own right.</p><p>For fans and property watchers alike, Will’s Ruislip home has never been more iconic – or potentially valuable.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/costs-savings/house-prices/the-inbetweeners-are-back-heres-how-much-wills-iconic-home-could-be-worth-today</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ The Inbetweeners is back, but how much would Will’s Ruislip home fetch in today’s booming property market? ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">F4ntDPbaDEMeQUgpVZZPhf</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6Ag45qz9gNhknGGWLj4AL5-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[House Prices]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Costs & Savings]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6Ag45qz9gNhknGGWLj4AL5-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Google Street View]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[The front of a semi-detached brick home and small grass garden with double garage]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[The front of a semi-detached brick home and small grass garden with double garage]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6Ag45qz9gNhknGGWLj4AL5-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Avoid these 9 common grouting mistakes that could be ruining your tiling projects ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Grouting mistakes are common, especially for novice DIY enthusiasts. Although it may seem like a simple finishing task, errors can lead to poor appearance and, more importantly, water ingress, which can cause costly and unwanted problems.</p><p>Knowing <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-grout-tiles"><u>how to grout tiles</u></a> correctly is a skill that doesn’t take long to learn, but one crucial element is patience. Whenever working with grout, rushing the job can be a major factor in the failure of a successful finish. So, make sure to take your time and avoid the mistakes outlined in this guide.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-not-mixing-correctly"><span>1. Not mixing correctly</span></h3><p>Before you start grouting tiles, ensure that the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-mix-grout"><u>grout is mixed correctly</u></a>. It’s not a difficult process, but getting it wrong will cause problems as Mark Irving, Building expert from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.buildandplumb.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Build & Plumb</u></a> shares, “It’s important to achieve the correct consistency when applying grout to tiles, as if the grout is too thick or too thin, it can be difficult to spread.</p><p>To achieve the correct consistency, you must use the appropriate amount of water.” He adds, “If your mixture is too thick, you can add small amounts of water or add more dry mixture if it’s too watery. The correct consistency for grout should be smooth and spreadable."</p><p>Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and consider using a paddle mixer, such as the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08P4KLCXN?" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Toolty Helix Mixing Paddle from Amazon</u></a>, to achieve a smooth consistency.</p><h2 id="try-these-to-help-avoid-grouting-mistakes-2">Try these to help avoid grouting mistakes</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="51a35986-dbc4-4526-a002-75edec4f7e36"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/QEP-10060-Grout-Float-Black/dp/B089CSVN2Y" data-model-name="QEP Rubber Grout Float" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qR7qwPRCnh6LNRAyLxCseN.jpg' alt="Qep 4 In. X 9.5 In. Molded Rubber Grout Float With Non-Stick Gum Rubber, Black"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>GROUT FLOAT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">QEP Rubber Grout Float</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This grout float is the perfect tool for smoothly applying grout to joints. It features an aluminium back plate for durability, has bevelled sides for a smooth application and a contoured handle.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ef21b46f-a9d9-4ccd-8804-f95c5ee4a4b6"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mapei-UltraColor-Plus-Anthracite-Grout/dp/B008D04ACI/" data-model-name="Mapei Ultracolor Plus Grout " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cxtYJFkWzWW5KTzuSMcF7o.jpg' alt="Mapei 114 UltraColor Plus"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>COLOURED GROUT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Mapei Ultracolor Plus Grout </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A cement-based, water-resistant grout that comes in a multitude of colours. Ideal for all types of ceramic tiles on walls and floors. Fast-setting and drying, this grout is suitable for joints ranging from 2 to 20 mm.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="27ad95d8-2c61-4e02-94d8-af470ae5678c"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Temede-Cleaning-Scrubber-Bathroom-Household/dp/B08D6G6SQQ" data-model-name="Temede Car Wash Sponge" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Sdbr95fRWfqSqTG5mhGZRc.jpg' alt="Temede Car Wash Sponge 5pcs, Large All Purpose Sponges for Cleaning, 2.4in Thick Foam Scrubber Kit, Sponges for Dishes, Tile, Bike, Boat, Easy Grip Sponge for Kitchen, Bathroom, Household Cleaning"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>LARGE SPONGES</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Temede Car Wash Sponge</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>These large car wash sponges are the ideal choice for wiping away excess grout. The giant bone shape makes it easy to hold, and its large surface helps speed up the grout removal process.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-grouting-too-soon"><span>2. Grouting too soon</span></h3><p>Knowing <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-long-does-tile-adhesive-take-to-dry">how long tile adhesive takes to dry</a> is key when applying grout. Apply the grout before the tile adhesive is dry, and you’ll be trapping moisture behind the tiles, which will only lead to trouble, shares Irving. “Grouting too soon before the adhesive has dried can cause the tiles to shift and move around. Furthermore, this has the potential to become a hazard as tiles may become dislodged and even fall off the wall.”</p><p>He adds, “To grout the tiles effectively, you need to have a stable base to work with, so it’s important to leave tiles enough time to dry”. The duration will depend on the adhesive used and the environmental conditions. Make sure to check the manufacturer's instructions, but as a general guideline, 24 hours is good.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-poorly-applied-grout"><span>3. Poorly applied grout</span></h3><p>Applying grout consistently is essential to succeed. It is typically applied with a grout float. Irving explains the process, “Spreading the grout over the tile in the wrong direction can lead to gaps in the joints between tiles, as they are not adequately filled. This happens when using a grout float tool to apply grout. When the grout float is moved in the same direction as the grout lines, it can remove grout from the joints.”</p><p>Thankfully, there’s a simple solution, as Irving explains, “When using a grout float, it’s best to apply grout diagonally to the grout joints so that the grout can fill the joints”.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.00%;"><img id="k9qJ2xjwmwhjFNDUdJPSYk" name="GroutDry2.jpg" alt="Hand with grout trowel putting grout onto light coloured tiles" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/k9qJ2xjwmwhjFNDUdJPSYk.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2500" height="1400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Applying grout incorrectly can leave gaps in the joints, which can let in moisture and water</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-not-letting-the-grout-cure-properly"><span>4. Not letting the grout cure properly</span></h3><p>This is a common issue, as Gary Tidman from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.onlylifts.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Only Lifts</a> explains, “Grout may feel firm on the surface within a few hours, but it hasn't reached its full strength yet.”</p><p>This can be a significant problem, particularly on floor tiles, he adds, “Walking on newly grouted floors or using a freshly tiled shower too soon introduces movement and moisture before the material has set, leading to cracks, crumbling joints, or water ingress beneath the tiles.”</p><p>Tidman recommends reading the manufacturer's manual: “Every manufacturer sets out curing times for a reason, and depending on the product, that can mean anywhere from 24 to 72 hours.”</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-leaving-grout-clean-up-for-too-long"><span>5. Leaving grout clean-up for too long</span></h3><p>After applying grout, there is a process to clean the tiles, but a common mistake is leaving it too long. Tidman explains, “Grout haze, the cloudy film left behind on the tile surface, can set within minutes and is far more difficult to remove once it's dried.”</p><p>If too much grout is left on the tiles and left to set, it will be difficult to remove. Tidman says, “People assume they can wipe it off later, but by then it requires aggressive scrubbing or even chemical removers, which risks scratching the tiles, especially more delicate tiles.”</p><p>The solution is straightforward: “The best approach is to clean as you go, working in small sections, wiping diagonally across the joints with a damp sponge, rinsing frequently, and never allowing excess grout to sit on the surface for an extended period. This keeps the lines crisp and avoids the frustration of battling residue later.”</p><p>It’s important to rinse the sponge and ideally refresh the water regularly to remove as much grout as possible from the tile, as this will help achieve a clean finish. Even then, you can be left with a light film after finishing, but this can be wiped away with a dry microfibre cloth (like these <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Scrub-Daddy-Microfiber-Cloth-Twin/dp/B09F9XPXWM" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Scrub Daddy Microfibre Cleaning Cloths from Amazon</a>).</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-not-cleaning-joints"><span>6. Not cleaning joints </span></h3><p>When grouting exterior tiles (or slabs), it's essential that any dirt and debris are removed from the joints. Irving shares why, “Exterior patios are exposed to the elements, they can gather a lot of dirt, this dirt and debris can get stuck in the grout and lead to weak joints. This can weaken the structure of the patio and cause it to degrade at a quicker rate.”</p><p>Use a small trowel and stiff brush to ensure all dirt or debris is removed from the joints. To finish, lightly mist with water to complete cleaning the joints.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-7-wrong-weather-conditions"><span>7. Wrong weather conditions</span></h3><p>When grouting outside, it's more important to choose the ideal conditions than inside. Irving says, “It’s a big mistake to grout a patio during poor weather conditions, especially rain or extreme heat.”</p><p>He adds, “This can prevent the grout from curing properly and result in weak joints.”</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-8-not-compacting-grout"><span>8. Not compacting grout</span></h3><p>Whether using a traditional sand and cement mix or a specialist grout to grout or point a patio, the mix and consistency need to be right before adding to a joint. Add enough mix to the joint so that it's slightly above the level of the tile or slab.</p><p>Then press down with a small pointing trowel (like this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/OX-Pointing-Bricklaying-Building-Construction/dp/B00JFXYW34" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>OX Pro Pointing Trowel from Amazon</u></a>) until compacted. Finally, you can finish the mix with a brick jointer (like this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Marshalltown-81-Brick-Jointer-4in/dp/B00002N7WB/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Marshalltown 81 Brick Jointer from Amazon</u></a>) to give a smooth, smart finish.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-9-choosing-the-wrong-colour"><span>9. Choosing the wrong colour</span></h3><p>Traditionally, white grout has been the colour of choice indoors, which works well with any colour tile. Grey is a popular choice, especially when paired with white tiles. But with a whole host of colours now available, you can mix and match.</p><p>However, there are a few points worth noting when using a coloured grout. Some simply do not complement a tile. Typically, a grout colour that is either a complete contrast or shares the same hue usually works well. But colour choices are subjective, so it could be said that any colour grout is acceptable.</p><p>On a more practical level, coloured grout needs to be mixed correctly to ensure colour consistency. And if you choose a contrasting colour, be aware that it will highlight any inconsistencies in the installation, such as uneven spacing.</p><p>Now you know how to avoid common grouting mistakes, it's time to think about some smart new tile ideas. Check out our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/bathroom-tiling-ideas"><u>bathroom tiling ideas</u></a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/bathroom-floor-tile-idea"><u>bathroom floor tile ideas</u></a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-floor-tile-ideas"><u>kitchen floor tile ideas</u></a> for inspiration</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/diy/grouting-mistakes</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Check out the expert advice in this guide and say goodbye to making grouting mistakes forever ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">eegmE8fzd53jFXTKtmPyuN</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/faRNq7mFyDqRTg4YYELdvQ-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[DIY]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Steve Jenkins ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/faRNq7mFyDqRTg4YYELdvQ-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Gloved hand holding a grout float applying grey grout on white metro tiles]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Gloved hand holding a grout float applying grey grout on white metro tiles]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/faRNq7mFyDqRTg4YYELdvQ-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Solar Together continues rapid growth with tens of thousands benefitting across the UK, so what exactly is it? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>A growing number of local councils across England are teaming up with the Solar Together scheme to offer residents steep discounts on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/solar-panels">solar panels</a> and battery storage through collective purchasing.</p><p>Instead of shopping around alone, homeowners can register and benefit from the bargaining power of their community, potentially cutting costs by 10–25 % or more.</p><p>Below, we explain what Solar Together is, list the councils already participating, and show how households can gain.</p><h2 id="what-is-solar-together-2">What is Solar Together?</h2><p>Solar Together is a nationwide group-buying initiative run in partnership with local authorities and delivered by energy specialists iChoosr.</p><p>Instead of homeowners negotiating alone, large groups register their interest together. Approved installers then compete in a reverse auction to offer the best price for supply and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/installing-solar-panels">installation</a>.</p><p>Once the auction closes, every registered household receives an offer based on their roof type, energy usage, and system size.</p><p>The scheme’s organisers oversee installer vetting and quality control, requiring MCS accreditation and RECC or HIES membership.</p><p>The process aims to remove the hassle from going solar, reduce costs, and help councils meet their net-zero goals. In previous rounds, Solar Together participants have reported average savings of between 10 % and 25 % compared to typical market quotes.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="YNAhHM3xLqy2ZXsSdXic3c" name="solar panel problems_GettyImages-2148754158" alt="solar panels on tiled roof with trees behind" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YNAhHM3xLqy2ZXsSdXic3c.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>With </em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/solar-panel-grants"><em>solar panel grants</em></a><em> limited Solar Together works by having installers auction for your business</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Aire Images/Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="which-councils-offer-solar-together-2">Which councils offer Solar Together? </h2><p>The number of participating councils is growing rapidly. Current and recent partners include:</p><ul><li>Surrey County Council</li><li>Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead</li><li>Wiltshire Council</li><li>Swindon Borough Council</li><li>Kent County Council</li><li>Medway Council</li><li>Lincolnshire County Council</li><li>Hertfordshire County Council</li><li>Dacorum Borough Council</li><li>East Herts Council</li><li>Bristol City Council</li><li>Essex County Council</li><li>Wokingham Borough Council</li><li>North East Lincolnshire Council</li><li>Suffolk County Council</li><li>Cambridgeshire County Council</li><li>Liverpool City Region Combined Authority</li></ul><p>If your local authority isn’t on the list, keep checking as new councils are joining every few months as the scheme expands nationwide.</p><h2 id="how-can-people-benefit-from-solar-together-2">How can people benefit from Solar Together? </h2><p>Homeowners can benefit from Solar Together in several ways. By joining a collective purchasing scheme, they gain access to pricing that would usually only be available to large developers.</p><p>The reverse auction model means that installers compete to offer the lowest possible <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/cost-of-solar-panels">solar panel costs</a>, helping participants make significant savings compared with sourcing quotes individually.</p><p>The process is designed to be easy from start to finish. Residents register online in just a few minutes, receive a no-obligation offer, and, if they choose to proceed, have a qualified installer handle the entire process from survey to connection. For many, it’s the simplest way to transition to renewable energy without navigating the complexity of comparing multiple suppliers.</p><p>There are some considerations: the upfront cost remains an investment, and while Solar Together’s vetting process is rigorous, each household still signs its own contract with the installer, not the council. Homeowners should check warranty details, component specifications, and support options carefully before signing.</p><p>Despite those caveats, thousands of residents across the UK have already used Solar Together to power their homes with clean, renewable energy, and with more councils joining the scheme every year, even more households are set to benefit soon.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/eco-homes/solar-panels/solar-together</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Group-buying your solar panels through your local council can slash costs. Here’s how Solar Together works, which councils are on board, and whether you’ll benefit ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">Hujk4HHjEsk7bSgW9MR2ec</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/q3WdYjGa8KbYTVFoxzZAQQ-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Solar Panels]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eco Homes]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/q3WdYjGa8KbYTVFoxzZAQQ-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Jacobs Stock Photography/Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[man working on solar panels on roof]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[man working on solar panels on roof]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/q3WdYjGa8KbYTVFoxzZAQQ-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Do you know the difference between polished concrete and microcement floors? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>To the untrained eye, polished concrete and microcement flooring appear similar. Both of these hard floor surfaces are easy to clean, should withstand significant wear, and can lend a contemporary, industrial-tinted aesthetic to living spaces.</p><p>Look more closely you’ll start to notice significant differences between the two <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/flooring">types of flooring</a>, from their ease of installation and versatility throughout the home to their aesthetics and longevity.</p><p>We interviewed a hard floor installer and an architect to find out the pros and cons of these two popular flooring materials. If you’re weighing up polished concrete vs microcement for your floor, this article is here to help you make an informed decision.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-polished-concrete-vs-microcement-composition"><span>Polished concrete vs microcement: Composition</span></h3><p>Polished concrete floors are of ancient origin, although the material achieved new popularity in domestic contexts in the 20th century. Favoured by postmodernist architects including Tadao Ando and Zaha Hadid, the material has become a byword for understated sophistication.</p><p>Concrete is made from a mixture of cement, sand and water (sometimes with application-specific additives, such as chemical densifiers for polished concrete floors). These materials set hard when mixed and left to dry. The set surface is polished through a sequence of grinding, buffing and treatment processes which ultimately create a smooth and smart-looking floor.</p><p>Microcement is a newer material, invented in the mid-20th century and rarely used in European homes until the 1980s. It’s made up of cement, fine aggregates and polymers. To form a floor surface, it is built up in multiple thin coats over a subfloor such as screed. The final thickness of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/microcement-flooring">microcement floor</a> is as little as 2-3mm.</p><p>“It has been around for a while, but iterations have changed over the years,” says Simon Heslop, owner and MD of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.directstone.co.uk/" target="_blank">DirectStone Ltd.</a>. “The Forcrete brand microcement we use is fully waterproof, epoxy based and sealed in wax, so it becomes a very stable finish.</p><p>This is a marked improvement over some earlier microcement products.</p><p>“In the old days you used to seal it, and when the sealant degraded the surface would start to get marked,” says Heslop. “Now that it’s epoxy-based, every layer is waterproof and it’s much harder.”</p><p>Microcement flooring is used in some of the same contexts as polished concrete flooring, although the two materials have distinct strengths and weaknesses.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-polished-concrete-vs-microcement-cost-and-ease-of-installation"><span>Polished concrete vs microcement: Cost and ease of installation</span></h3><p>If you’re able to pour it to the required depth of around 100mm, concrete tends to require minimal subfloor preparation, as it is not greatly affected by the underlying material (technically known as the ‘substrate’) provided this is solid and compacted. This removes one of the costliest and most significant obstacles to laying a new hard floor.</p><p>“Concrete can form part of the structural ‘sub floor’ make up of the floor, meaning you would omit using concrete below the insulation and screed above,” says Chris Lawson, Managing Director of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.ckarchitecturalbirmingham.co.uk/" target="_blank">CK Architectural</a>. “Like <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/can-you-use-microcement-flooring-with-underfloor-heating">microcement flooring with underfloor heating</a>, polished concrete is also compatible with underfloor heating.”</p><p>Microcement is more sensitive to its substrate, and usually requires a perfectly smooth and level subfloor to be laid directly beneath where it will be applied.</p><p>“It can be put over very stable tiles that have no cracks or movement – but if the tiles start to delaminate or move, the microcement floor is affected,” Heslop explains.</p><p>Installing either type of floor comes at significant expense (with disruption to daily life throughout the process). Cost estimates for professional microcement floor installations are currently around £140 to £160 plus VAT per square metre, while Checkatrade pegs current <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/polished-concrete-floor-cost/" target="_blank">pricing for polished concrete floor installation</a> at £120 to £150 p.s.m..</p><p>“Laying a concrete floor is quite an involved process, but because you’re not screeding it works out at similar price to getting a high quality wooden or tiled floor installed,” says Heslop.</p><p>“Microcement is a tiny bit more expensive because you have to factor in putting down screed or a layer of self-levelling compound before the microcement itself goes on. It needs that smooth, level surface underneath.”</p><p>Lawson concurs: “With microcement, the full subfloor would be installed and this would be an additional cost to finish, so you might have a solid concrete subfloor with four more layers added on top.”</p><p><em><strong>Winner:</strong></em><em> polished concrete</em></p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-polished-concrete-vs-microcement-aesthetic-appeal"><span>Polished concrete vs microcement: Aesthetic appeal</span></h3><p>According to Lawson, polished concrete is a versatile choice in terms of the finished floor’s aesthetic.</p><p>“The concrete can be of various different patterns and colours, and there are many effects available including marble and quartz textures,” he says. “Patterns are not always balanced and uniform, so ensure the installer guarantees the frequency of the pattern details.”</p><p>If you’re not a fan of grey floors (and plenty of people <em>are</em>), both polished concrete and microcement have plenty of alternative tones to offer.</p><p>“Microcement can come in pretty much any colour, including your choice of RAL colour,” says Heslop. “The producers can also copy most of the colours sold by paint brands, such as Farrow & Ball and Little Greene. Concrete is available in a lot of colours too, but not as many.”</p><p>The two materials also vary in their texture.</p><p>“There are more options with microcement as the specialist can trowel in different finishes, much like the old school renderers with Artex, Venetian plaster, tadelakt or stucco,” says Lawson. “Polished concrete generally is a high-shine, glazed, smooth finish.”</p><p><em><strong>Winner:</strong></em><em> it’s a question of taste</em></p><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:387px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:116.28%;"><img id="XDVoKPKBGn4UTBazYaWQKe" name="Polished concrete vs microcement" alt="Examples of polished concrete and microcement floors. The polished concrete is shiny while the microcement is more textured" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XDVoKPKBGn4UTBazYaWQKe.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="387" height="450" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">A polished concrete floor </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: DirectStone Ltd)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description">The first of the floors photographed here is microcement; the second is polished concrete. Note the textured appearance of the microcement, and how this contrasts with the polished concrete's smooth reflective surface. </p><p class="slide-description">Both floors were laid by DirectStone Ltd., as was the floor shown in the main image above. </p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:515px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:117.48%;"><img id="7MekNqeDma4x3im8RtFkJe" name="Polished concrete vs microcement" alt="Examples of polished concrete and microcement floors. The polished concrete is shiny while the microcement is more textured" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7MekNqeDma4x3im8RtFkJe.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="515" height="605" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">A microcement floor </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: DirectStone Ltd)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-polished-concrete-vs-microcement-longevity"><span>Polished concrete vs microcement: Longevity</span></h3><p>“Because microcement is only around 2-3mm thick, it’s only as good as the screed beneath it in terms of robustness,” says Heslop. “We put a fibreglass mesh over it, but it can only hold for so long. It will last for ten years plus, as long as the screed stays stable. However, newer microcements such as the Forcrete products we use are very, very good, and I could see them lasting for 20 or 30 years.</p><p>“Ultimately, a microcement floor’s lifespan will depend on what it’s on top of, and how well it is looked after.”</p><p>A polished concrete floor will usually last far longer, subject to occasional resealing to preserve its condition.</p><p>“The concrete is 100mm thick and poured with a 6-8mm mesh within it, which is made with a steel rated at around C35,” says Heslop. “So, even if underfloor heating below the concrete causes cracks, these tend to be hairline. It’s a very durable layer.”</p><p><em><strong>Winner:</strong></em><em> polished concrete</em></p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-polished-concrete-vs-microcement-ease-of-upkeep"><span>Polished concrete vs microcement: Ease of upkeep</span></h3><p>According to Heslop, polished concrete and microcement floors are fairly similar in terms of their upkeep requirements.</p><p>“Concrete is probably a little easier to clean because it’s polished – it feels like marble – whereas microcement has more texture, so dirt or moisture can sit in the tiny depressions across its surface,” he says.</p><p>Both microcement and polished concrete floors will require refinishing from time to time, which usually involves sanding and reapplication of sealant. Heslop provides this service for both materials.</p><p>“Concrete can be refinished many times without changing appearance, whereas microcement can only be refinished a few times due to its limited depth,” he says.</p><p><em><strong>Winner: </strong></em><em>polished concrete</em></p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-polished-concrete-vs-microcement-versatility"><span>Polished concrete vs microcement: Versatility</span></h3><p>You can use polished concrete or microcement flooring throughout much of the home, but there are a few exceptions in each case.</p><p>“For a garage floor you’d want concrete, because it’s a solid layer rather than screed plus that thin layer of microcement,” says Heslop. “This applies especially if you’ve got heavy car traffic in and out, which would mean you’re parking and turning your wheel in one place repeatedly.”</p><p>Meanwhile, Heslop recommends microcement for areas which are often wet, such as bathrooms.</p><p>“It’s perfect for shower trays – as well as for bathroom walls – because it’s waterproof and practically stainproof,” he says. “Concrete is porous and can be marked and stained by the water when the sealant starts to wear off.”</p><p>DirectStone Ltd started offering microcement floors because customers wanted a concrete finish, but couldn’t put it in due to their existing floor materials.</p><p>“It’s perfect for renovations or refurbs where you’re not digging out your floors, because it’s a far shallower layer,” says Heslop. “On the other hand, polished concrete is my recommendation for the main floor areas of new builds under construction. In my opinion, it will last longer and has a slightly more natural look. If I were building a new house, I’d go for polished concrete in the main living areas and microcement in the bathrooms.”</p><p>This tallies with Lawson’s thoughts on polished concrete floors.</p><p>“They can be slippy when wet,” he says, “whereas microcement flooring comes in many different textures which allow for more non-slip arrangements.”</p><p><em><strong>Winner:</strong></em><em> microcement</em></p><h2 id="shop-hard-floor-cleaning-products-2">Shop hard floor cleaning products</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ac1725c9-63a2-4a60-a457-6547255e53fc"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tefal-X-CLEAN-Cordless-Vacuum-Self-Propelled/dp/B0DM8QSDHW" data-model-name="Tefal X-Clean 4 Cordless Wet & Dry Vacuum Mop " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EAG74zQCGK68Dm9H4LeaLW.jpg' alt="Tefal X-Clean 4 Cordless Wet & Dry Vacuum Mop – Hard Floor Cleaner With Self-Cleaning, Smart Sensor, Self-Propelled Brush-Roll, 50 Min Battery, Lightweight Design, Grey Gf5035m0"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Tefal X-Clean 4 Cordless Wet & Dry Vacuum Mop </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A hard floor cleaner can mop and vacuum a microcement or polished concrete floor at the same time. I can vouch for this Tefal model.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="3469dd36-572b-495d-8b51-d6a62b80ffd6"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bostik-30612883-Concrete-Sealer-litres/dp/B09W67BLXL/ref=sr_1_6" data-model-name="Bostik Concrete Sealer 5l " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TRivFdtkmLYK6PMVbLAWTm.jpg' alt="Bostik Concrete Sealer 5l - Quick Drying Waterproof Concrete Sealer for Garage & Utility Floors - Dries Clear"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Bostik Concrete Sealer 5l </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>If you'll have polished concrete in a place that gets wet, it will be crucial to keep its layer of waterproof sealant topped up. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="f16a37ba-c006-4f53-ab9f-961b71aa9958"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Asevi-Concentrated-Cleaner-Laminate-Neutral/dp/B0CS3VWCKS/ref=sr_1_6" data-model-name="Asevi Concentrated Floor Cleaner Liquid – Ph Neutral Formula" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rxNw8JSFqbefeTAAcU8euR.jpg' alt="Asevi Concentrated Floor Cleaner Liquid – Effective Ph Neutral Formula for Laminate and Stone Surfaces – 1l"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Asevi Concentrated Floor Cleaner Liquid – Ph Neutral Formula</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Acidic or alkaline floor cleaning products can wear away the sealant on your hard floor, so consider using a pH neutral formulation. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="do-microcement-and-polished-concrete-look-the-same-2">Do microcement and polished concrete look the same? </h2><p>Floors of these types look fairly similar to one another, but polished concrete tends to be smoother and shinier whereas microcement typically has a more textured appearance.</p><p>Both microcement and polished concrete come in a variety of colours and finishes. Talk to your installer to agree on the ideal finished look of your flooring, whichever of the two materials you choose.</p><h2 id="can-microcement-or-polished-concrete-flooring-be-installed-diy-2">Can microcement or polished concrete flooring be installed DIY? </h2><p>Whether you choose polished concrete or microcement, laying a hard floor is usually best left to a professional. Many steps of the process, from mixing the material to pouring it evenly and safely through a room, will benefit greatly from the experience and equipment of a specialist installer.</p><p>Some intrepid DIYers might consider self-installing a microcement floor in certain cases, especially where a limited area is being refloored and professional installation costs are therefore inflated. For instance, you might attempt laying your own microcement shower tray.</p><p>Getting your floors right provides the basis for your home’s aesthetics and livability. Avoid these common<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/flooring/flooring-mistakes"> flooring mistakes</a>, and take a room-by-room approach with special consideration for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/bedroom-flooring-ideas">bedroom flooring ideas</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/garage-flooring-ideas">garage flooring ideas</a>, and so on.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/flooring/polished-concrete-vs-microcement-flooring</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ We asked a floor installer and an architect for their take on the pros and cons of these popular materials. ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">6bdr7etZ6CvuX6PxCYnxLN</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jtP37HrNmcdzJ9NYHYk7rc-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Flooring]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Pete Wise ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jtP37HrNmcdzJ9NYHYk7rc-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A cement floor with wooden kitchen units and a white kitchen island with a blue canvas painting on the wall. A table and chairs is in the foreground]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A cement floor with wooden kitchen units and a white kitchen island with a blue canvas painting on the wall. A table and chairs is in the foreground]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jtP37HrNmcdzJ9NYHYk7rc-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Omaze prize winner’s future hangs in balance ahead of council planning decision ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>When Vicky Curtis-Cresswell won a £6 million mansion in Blakeney, Norfolk, through an Omaze and Comic Relief raffle in March, she dreamed of moving in immediately.</p><p>But now, nearly seven months later, she still hasn’t received the keys.</p><p>The future of her prize, and her plans to settle her family, hangs on the outcome of a local council decision over whether the house gains <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/planning-permission">planning permission</a>.</p><h2 id="planning-problems-delay-omaze-ownership-2">Planning problems delay Omaze ownership </h2><p>The mansion, named Larkfields, was found to have multiple unapproved features, which meant the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/winner-of-gbp6m-omaze-home-still-hasnt-been-given-keys-due-to-planning-problems">Omaze home was refused planning permission</a>.</p><p>North Norfolk District Council had recommended <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-get-planning-approval">approval </a>for a retrospective planning application, but the matter has been called in for review by the council’s Development Committee, scheduled for 16 October.</p><p>Councillor Victoria Holliday, who filed the call-in, has expressed concerns over the removal of distinctive pine trees and the loss of a wildflower meadow.</p><p>She described the developments as “out of keeping with the wild and unspoilt nature” of the coastal property, which sits within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.</p><h2 id="omaze-responds-2">Omaze responds </h2><p>Omaze has confirmed it will cover any costs associated with regularising the property and continues to work with the council.</p><p>A company spokesperson told <em>Homebuilding & Renovating</em>: “Omaze has taken every possible step to bring the issue to a swift resolution, including submitting a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/retrospective-planning">retrospective planning</a> application to address the recommendations made by North Norfolk District Council.</p><p>"We guarantee no house winner would ever have to incur any costs to remedy historical planning issues, and all house prizes are transferred with good and marketable title.”</p><h2 id="winner-s-plans-on-hold-2">Winner’s plans on hold </h2><p>Curtis-Cresswell, a former Miss Wales finalist, had hoped to sell the Norfolk mansion and buy a family home in South Wales.</p><p>Those plans remain on hold until the committee makes its decision, leaving her £6 million prize in limbo.</p><p>As the 16 October council meeting approaches, the resolution of this high-profile planning dispute will determine not just the fate of Larkfields, but the immediate future of its prize winner.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/planning/omaze-prize-winners-future-hangs-in-balance-ahead-of-council-planning-decision</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Winner Vicky Curtis-Cresswell still can’t access her £6 million Omaze mansion in Norfolk as a council committee re-examines unapproved features. ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">td6JeWNZzamCDvCcxCq5tS</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nuuiJnHVG5Y2nPmN4CQoSX-1280-80.png" type="image/png" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Planning]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nuuiJnHVG5Y2nPmN4CQoSX-1280-80.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Omaze]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A large house with swimming pool and patio and large gardens along with a full second floor balcony]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A large house with swimming pool and patio and large gardens along with a full second floor balcony]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nuuiJnHVG5Y2nPmN4CQoSX-1280-80.png" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Just how much does cavity wall insulation cost? Our expert-led guide explains how much to budget and how to avoid wasting money ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Just how much does cavity wall insulation cost? If you are considering adding it in or upgrading existing insulation, this is likely to be a consideration for you right now.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/cavity-wall-insulation">Cavity wall insulation</a> can be one of the best ways to reduce heat loss in a home, yet bad installation, the wrong materials and and using it where it is simply unsuitable can render that initial outlay worthless.</p><p>"According to our research, about 33% of all the heat lost in an uninsulated home escapes through the walls," reveals Richard Northcott, knowledge manager at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Energy Saving Trust</a>. "By installing cavity wall insulation, you can save energy and reduce your heating bill."</p><p>Our guide explores how much it costs to buy and install cavity wall insulation, the factors that can affect these figures and the potentially expensive mistakes to be aware of.</p><h2 id="how-much-does-cavity-wall-insulation-cost-2">How much does cavity wall insulation cost?</h2><p>Costs for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/insulating-a-wall">insulating a wall</a> vary greatly, depending on a number of factors, including, fairly obviously, the size of your house.</p><p>'The cost is not uniform, varying significantly by property type,' picks up Samuel Hitch, MD at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.buyinsulationonline.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Buy Insulation Online Ltd</a>. "While the material cost for retrofit insulation (such as blown beads or foam) generally ranges between £13 and £30 per square metre, the final total price is much higher.</p><p>"The total average cost for a mid-terrace home is approximately £1,500, rising to around £2,700 for a semi-detached house, and up to £4,600 for a detached home," continues Samuel. "Professional labour often accounts for up to 60% of this overall project price. A pre-installation borescope survey, essential for compliance, can cost up to £300."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-are-grants-available-for-cavity-wall-insulation"><span>Are grants available for cavity wall insulation?</span></h3><p>The good news is that, in some cases, financial help might be available to those looking at adding in cavity wall insulation.</p><p>"In England, Scotland or Wales, you might be eligible for funding via the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/what-is-the-great-british-insulation-scheme-eco-plus/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS).</a>," advises Richard Northcott. "This is a government-backed scheme to upgrade the least energy efficient homes across Great Britain.</p><p>"<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/great-british-insulation-scheme-release-october-2024/summary-of-the-great-british-insulation-scheme-october-2024" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Cavity wall insulation is the most common measure</a> installed via GBIS, accounting for 45% of all measures installed."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-happens-if-cavity-wall-insulation-is-poorly-installed"><span>What happens if cavity wall insulation is poorly installed?</span></h3><p>If you are going to the not-inconsiderable expensive of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/installing-cavity-wall-insulation">installing cavity wall insulation</a>, you want to be sure that the job is done well.</p><p>"The consequences of poorly installed cavity wall insulation are severe and costly," warns Samuel Hitch. "The primary physical failure is moisture saturation, where water penetrates the external wall and is carried across the insulation material to the inner wall, effectively 'bridging' the cavity.</p><p>"This results in patches of penetrating damp, excessive black mould growth, and long-term risks such as the corrosion of critical wall ties," continues Samuel. "Critically, concerns over damp and structural damage resulting from poor CWI have led to some mortgage providers refusing to lend money on affected properties, severely impacting property value and saleability."</p><p>While poorly installed CWI can be put right, this comes at a cost.</p><p>"Remediation is expensive and invasive, requiring three main steps," explains Samuel.</p><ul><li><strong>Extraction:</strong> Professional removal of the failed, saturated insulation. Costs start from approximately £1,680 for a typical semi-detached home and can escalate to as much as £2,520 for a typical detached property.</li><li><strong>External repair:</strong> Factor in <a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/repointing-cost">repointing costs</a> for the comprehensive remediation of the external walls, including repointing damaged mortar and sealing all cracks, to ensure the building envelope is watertight.</li><li>Internal repair: Addressing internal damage, such as removing affected plaster and replacing it with a damp-resistant system.</li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-is-cavity-wall-insulation-the-best-option-for-your-home"><span>Is cavity wall insulation the best option for your home?</span></h3><p>In some cases, cavity wall insulation won't be the best <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/insulation">type of insulation</a> and, in this case, you'll obviously want to spend your money elsewhere.</p><p>"If your house was built after the 1920s, its external walls are probably cavity walls," explains Richard Northcott. "A cavity wall is made up of two masonry walls with a gap in between them. The outer layer is usually made of brick, while the inner layer will be made of brick or concrete block. Pre-1920, older, houses are more likely to have solid walls. A solid wall has no cavity: each wall is a single solid wall, usually made of brick or stone.</p><p>"Cavity wall insulation is suitable for many homes and many people have no issues following its installation," continues Richard. "But cavity wall insulation might not be suitable if your home is exposed to extreme weather or flooring, in a poor condition, if there’s a risk of your rooms overheating or if it has been constructed with narrow cavities, less than 50mm (usually in homes built pre-1920’s)."</p><p>"Homes built before the 1920s or 1929 are overwhelmingly solid-wall construction and are physically unsuitable," further explains Samuel Hitch. "Mid-terrace homes built after 1945 generally have a cavity, but those built in the 1930s require specific inspection."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="M2fVoeuZQvkajU7Ym7YLF" name="GettyImages-172767763" alt="cavity wall insulation between blockwork and brick walls" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/M2fVoeuZQvkajU7Ym7YLF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Be sure to check that cavity wall insulation is a viable option for your property before parting with any money</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-can-cavity-wall-insulation-be-used-within-damp-walls"><span>Can cavity wall insulation be used within damp walls?</span></h3><p>The condition of your walls and the cavity within the inner and outer layers can also affect the cost of installation – particularly in the case of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/damp">damp</a>.</p><p>"Existing dampness and damage do not merely complicate the process – they render the property unsuitable for CWI until full remediation is complete," points out Samuel Hitch. "If external defects are present, moisture penetration is ongoing. Installing insulation traps this moisture, preventing the wall from drying out and potentially shifting the dew point further inwards, which can greatly exacerbate the risk of condensation and mould.</p><p>"Additionally, if cavities contain accumulated rubble, dirt, or mortar debris at the base, this will act as a permanent moisture bridge," continues Samuel. "Any home with structural damage, such as cracks or defective pointing, must be repaired beforehand."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-are-the-different-types-of-cavity-wall-insulation"><span>What are the different types of cavity wall insulation?</span></h3><p>There are several options when it comes to the type of cavity wall insulation that can be installed – but the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/best-ways-to-insulate-your-home">best ways to insulate your home</a> will very much depend on the property.</p><p>"The materials used depend on the project type," picks up Samuel Hitch. "For retrofit projects with an existing cavity, materials are injected or blown in. These commonly include expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads, mineral wool fibre, and polyurethane or urea formaldehyde (PU/UF) foam.</p><p>"For new constructions or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/extension-beginners-guide">extensions</a>, materials are installed as rigid sheets or slabs during construction," continues Samuel. "Examples include rigid polyisocyanurate (PIR) boards (such as Celotex CW4000) and dense mineral wool insulation slabs (such as Knauf DriTherm)."</p><p>Blown insulation tends to be the cheapest option, with rigid boards and slabs sitting at the higher end of the price scale.</p><p>"There is no universal 'best type' of CWI material," explains Samuel. "The 'right' type is defined by its compliance with the specific environmental and structural conditions of the property, including cavity width and the wind-driven rain exposure zone. The definitive measure is the BBA Agrément Certificate, which must explicitly cover the product's suitability for the measured site conditions. The 'wrong' type is any material installed without this rigorous verification or in a property that is physically unsuitable."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="Bs6jNR2hmM9vZbPXuKrKqH" name="GettyImages-2154318499" alt="cavity wall insulation being blown in through external walls" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Bs6jNR2hmM9vZbPXuKrKqH.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Blown in cavity wall insulation is often specified for retrofit projects – it is one of the cheaper options</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-does-cavity-wall-insulation-cause-damp"><span>Does cavity wall insulation cause damp?</span></h3><p>Never try to save money simply by specifying the cheapest type of cavity wall insulation – you could run into all kinds of problems that will only end up costing you more in the long-run, damp included.</p><p>"While CWI helps mitigate cold surface <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-condensation">condensation</a> by warming the inner wall surface, improper installation creates problems," explains Samuel Hitch. "Voids or gaps in the insulation, resulting from poor application, create thermal bridges (cold spots) that attract atmospheric moisture, significantly increasing condensation and black mould growth inside the home.</p><p>"Furthermore, if the material is used in a high-exposure zone for which it is not certified, saturation will occur, disrupting the wall’s moisture balance and leading directly to penetrating damp."</p><p>"A good installer should not block or seal any intentional ventilation such as underfloor grilles or airbricks as these help keep wooden beams and floors dry,' adds Richard Northcott. 'Wall vents and trickle vents are also important as they let small amounts of fresh air flow into rooms."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="dHEgXStzESrePKJQqCzQyA" name="GettyImages-1877193685" alt="hands with yellow rubber gloves holding a spray bottle cleaning black mould off walls" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dHEgXStzESrePKJQqCzQyA.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Neglecting ventilation when installing cavity walls can lead to damp problems</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="how-much-lower-can-you-expect-heating-bills-to-be-with-cwi-2">How much lower can you expect heating bills to be with CWI?</h2><p>As well as increased comfort levels, installing cavity wall insulation can also cut household bills – but by how much?</p><p>According to Energy Saving Trust, for the average detached house, annual savings of £420 can be expected, while a semi-detached house could see bills slashed by £240 per year.</p><h2 id="what-are-the-building-regulations-for-cavity-wall-insulation-2">What are the building regulations for cavity wall insulation?</h2><p>As with most home upgrades, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/building-regulations">building regulations</a> apply to cavity wall insulation. To ignore them could mean paying out later down the line to put work right. There are several approved documents to be aware of, as Samuel Hitch explains.</p><p>"CWI is governed by Approved Document L (Conservation of Fuel and Power) This mandates insulation continuity to avoid thermal bridging. The cavity wall insulation must extend below the damp-proof course (DPC) and at least 215mm (one full block height) below the underside of the floor structure/slab," says Samuel.</p><p>"Approved Document C (Resistance to Moisture) requires that the design accounts for resistance to moisture, meaning installers must assess the exposure of the building to wind-driven rain and ensure the external finishes are appropriate for the local climate zone."</p><h2 id="how-much-does-a-survey-for-cavity-wall-insulation-cost-2">How much does a survey for cavity wall insulation cost?</h2><p>In order to ensure you are specifying the correct type of insulation and are spending you money in the right places, a survey is key and, if you are <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/renovating-a-house-complete-guide">renovating a house</a>, this becomes even more important.<br><br>"A detailed pre-installation survey, performed by a qualified professional using a borescope inspection, is mandatory for compliance" explains Samuel Hitch. "This inspection visually confirms the adequate cavity width (some systems require a minimum of 50mm), the absence of existing damp, and, critically, the lack of debris or mortar snots that would compromise the installation."</p><p>Expect costs of around £300.</p><p>When budgeting for any home upgrades, thinking about longevity is really important. Looking into <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-long-does-insulation-last">how long insulation lasts</a> will give you a good idea of how much value for money you are getting from your chosen materials and installation methods.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/insulation/just-how-much-does-cavity-wall-insulation-cost-our-expert-led-guide-explains-how-much-to-budget-and-how-to-avoid-wasting-money</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Cavity wall insulation can be a great way to increase comfort levels and reduce household bills – but how much does it cost and is it the right option for you? ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">wYE3zS3RQKDxizh7DgiPq6</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BguMRfTSpuNJsCT7uGjmD9-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Insulation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Natasha Brinsmead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BguMRfTSpuNJsCT7uGjmD9-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[builder installed slab of cavity wall insulation]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[builder installed slab of cavity wall insulation]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BguMRfTSpuNJsCT7uGjmD9-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ IKEA launches UK home energy range featuring solar panels, EV chargers and heat pumps ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>IKEA has long been known for transforming how we furnish our homes, now it wants to help power them too.</p><p>The retail giant has unveiled a brand-new Home Energy Services range in the UK, featuring solar panels, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-choose-heat-pumps">heat pumps</a>, home batteries and EV chargers designed to make sustainable living simpler and more accessible.</p><p>Partnering with renewable energy experts Aira and Soly, IKEA says its latest offering could help households cut both emissions and energy bills while making the switch to greener technology effortless.</p><h2 id="air-source-heat-pumps-2">Air source heat pumps</h2><p>The most recent addition to IKEA’s energy offering is its <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-an-air-to-water-heat-pump">air-to-water heat pump</a>, produced in partnership with Swedish clean energy company Aira.</p><p>The unit is designed to provide both heating and hot water by extracting energy from outdoor air and transferring it indoors through a connected system.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/flat-pack-to-heat-pumps-ikea-moves-into-the-uk-home-energy-market-with-new-heat-pump-range">IKEA lists both indoor and outdoor units as part of its heat pump range</a>, alongside optional maintenance plans and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pump-installation">installation </a>services handled by Aira.</p><p>According to the company’s product details, customers can book a consultation and receive a fixed-price quote for installation on the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/energy-services/heat-pumps/#9ce5e0b0-8098-11ef-b0cf-c35b2fa0a9d7" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">IKEA website.</a></p><h2 id="solar-panels-and-home-batteries-2">Solar panels and home batteries</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:5704px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:70.56%;"><img id="kbSNShrKkcmZhtRRMwxvZ" name="ikea solar panels GettyImages-1386679742.jpg" alt="solar panels on roof on timber clad house" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/kbSNShrKkcmZhtRRMwxvZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="5704" height="4025" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The solar panel and batteries are made by Soly</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/energy-services/solar-systems/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">IKEA’s solar energy offering</a> - available through its partnership with Dutch provider Soly - includes rooftop <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/solar-panels">solar panels</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/solar-batteries">battery storage systems</a>, and inverter technology for converting generated power into household electricity.</p><p>Customers can choose between standard and premium solar panel types and add <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/energy-services/battery-storage/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">home batteries</a> for energy storage, allowing them to use stored electricity during high-demand periods.</p><p>The service also covers installation and performance monitoring, managed through Soly’s UK operations.</p><h2 id="ev-charging-2">EV charging </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="SVS4QFqmc9nprNsbfrLApG" name="IKEA EV charger" alt="An IKEA EV charger on a white house charging a silver car" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SVS4QFqmc9nprNsbfrLApG.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The IKEA range was previously launched in the Netherlands and Germany</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: IKEA)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The retailer has also added home <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/our-best-ev-charger-roundup-based-on-customer-reviews">electric vehicle chargers</a> to its UK portfolio, again provided through Soly.</p><p>The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/energy-services/ev-charging/">wall-mounted EV units from IKEA</a> are compatible with most major EV brands and can be paired with IKEA’s solar and battery products for integrated home charging.</p><p>The chargers are available with optional installation and smart management features, including scheduling and consumption tracking.</p><h2 id="availability-in-the-uk-2">Availability in the UK</h2><p>The full Home Energy Services range is now listed on IKEA’s UK website, with individual products offered through its energy partners.</p><p>Each product - heat pumps from Aira and solar, storage and EV systems from Soly - includes installation and maintenance options, available to both new and existing IKEA customers.</p><p>The launch expands IKEA’s energy operations into the UK following earlier rollouts in markets including Germany and the Netherlands.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/eco-homes/energy/ikea-launches-uk-home-energy-range-featuring-solar-panels-ev-chargers-and-heat-pumps</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ The retailer expands into domestic renewables in the UK with new products covering solar, storage, heating and electric vehicle charging ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">8QLqzJxhEMZeckcsDJFgx7</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/r39E3mSLBek5HJwa5NAeYk-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Energy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eco Homes]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/r39E3mSLBek5HJwa5NAeYk-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Ikea]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A black Ikea outside heat pump]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A black Ikea outside heat pump]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/r39E3mSLBek5HJwa5NAeYk-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Forget radiators, find out how skirting board heating saves space and creates warm, welcoming spaces ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If you're seeking an innovative and almost invisible option for warming your living areas, you’ll want to know what skirting board heating is. A smart alternative to traditional radiators, it is designed to blend seamlessly with your existing decor. So smart you won’t even know that it's there.</p><p>No longer will you have to consider the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-radiators"><u>best radiators</u></a> for your latest home redesign. You can simply think about how you will use that now free wall space. Here, experts run through the different types of skirting board heating available, how much you can expect to pay to install it, and the benefits it could bring to your home.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-is-skirting-board-heating"><span>What is skirting board heating?</span></h3><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">VISIT THE HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOW</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' ><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="ZNwW5RjBiyuaif9wm7asVc" name="Homebuilding_SE_7116 (3) (1)" caption="" alt="A couple talking to an expert at the Advice Centre at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZNwW5RjBiyuaif9wm7asVc.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="" height="" attribution="" endorsement="" class="pinterest-pin-exclude"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="fancy-box__body-text">Need more advice or inspiration for your project? Get two free tickets to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/hbrwebsite" target="_blank">Homebuilding & Renovating Show.</a></p></div></div><p>To understand what skirting board heating is, Nicholas Auckland, heating expert from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.traderadiators.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><u>Trade Radiators</u></a>, succinctly shares the basic concept of the heating system: “Skirting board heating systems are skirting boards that have built-in heating elements, to heat the perimeter of a room.”</p><p>He adds, “These systems work by running hot water or electricity through heating elements embedded into the skirting boards. Typically, heated skirting boards warm up within 15 to 30 minutes.”</p><p>As you might expect, this system sits low to the ground, occupying less space than a radiator (making it more aesthetically pleasing and freeing up wall space), and provides a combination of radiant and convection heat.</p><h2 id="try-these-if-installing-skirting-board-heating-2">Try these if installing skirting board heating</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="562280b2-e8ab-4d42-8fb6-3bd72307b115"> <a href="https://www.wickes.co.uk/ThermaSkirt-DECO-BM3-Skirting-Profile---6%C2%BE-x-3m/p/309902" data-model-name="Thermaskirt Deco Bm3 Skirting Profile " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hnZGUiTs99cVZ3sSbsnsAj.jpg' alt="Thermaskirt Deco Bm3 Skirting Profile - 6¾" X 3m"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>SKIRTING BOARD HEATING</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Thermaskirt Deco Bm3 Skirting Profile </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Ideal for wet skirting board heating systems this basic profile skiting board is extruded from aluminium and includes insulation foil, a top gasket, and five brackets for fitting.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b9e5343a-e369-487d-97f9-ad7be1827ad1"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/lick-green-14-matt-emulsion-paint-2-5l/5060932641448_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Lick Green Matt Emulsion" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/MYXWErtRKwTWeakFHKQngS.webp' alt="Lick Green 14 Matt Emulsion"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>WALL PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Lick Green Matt Emulsion</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Complement your skirting board heating with a contemporary new colour. This Lick matt emulsion offers a smooth, scrubbable, and stain-resistant finish that covers 10m² - 13m² per litre.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b8ac5412-f3c8-4973-91dd-ccc01c397291"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Zinsser-Allcoat-Exterior-Anthracite-RAL7016/dp/B08NQ2TYTP/" data-model-name="Zinsser Allcoat Exterior" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3wfzF9ZDnooEa6fRkJuNZ4.jpg' alt="Zinsser Allcoat Exterior Wb (satin Finish) Ready Mixed Colours 2.5 Litre Anthracite Grey (ral 7016)"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>ALL SURFACE PAINT</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Zinsser Allcoat Exterior</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This self-priming water-based paint is a good choice for all surfaces including metal, plastic and wood. Available in a wide choice of colours it comes in a subtle satin finish.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-types-of-skirting-board-heating"><span>Types of skirting board heating</span></h3><p>Skirting board heating typically comes in two main types, explains Auckland, “One is referred to as a hydronic or wet system as it heats up using hot water, and the other is an electric or dry system that uses electric heating elements.”</p><h2 id="how-water-based-skirting-board-heating-works-2">How water-based skirting board heating works</h2><p>Wet systems carry hot water through pipes that sit behind the skirting boards. They are similar to a central heating system in that they are fitted with feed and return pipes to circulate water to heat up a room.</p><h2 id="how-electric-skirting-board-heating-works-2">How electric skirting board heating works</h2><p>An electric skirting board features electric heating elements embedded within the skirting board. These are attached to a power source and a thermostat that helps control the temperature.</p><h2 id="which-should-you-choose-2">Which should you choose?</h2><p>Wet skirting board heating systems are a viable option if you already have central heating installed, and typically have lower running costs. Electric skirting board heating is simpler to install and is an ideal choice if a central heating system is not in place.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-benefits-of-skirting-board-heating"><span>Benefits of skirting board heating</span></h3><p>Introducing skirting board heating comes with several benefits which are listed here.</p><h2 id="1-space-saver-2">1. Space saver</h2><p>No radiators means more wall space, as Auckland shares, “Heated skirting boards are a great space-saving solution to traditional radiators as they don’t take up unnecessary space within a room, which allows for more freedom when furnishing a space.”</p><h2 id="2-even-heat-distribution-2">2. Even heat distribution</h2><p>Skirting board heating runs all around a room, offering obvious benefits, as Viktor Velikov, Director of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://elserve.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">ELSERVE</a>, points out: “Skirting board heating gives off a steady, lower-temperature heat.” He adds, “This even spread reduces cold patches and creates a more comfortable, cocooning warmth rather than hot spots near the radiator and chilly corners elsewhere.”</p><h2 id="3-no-need-for-a-central-heating-system-2">3. No need for a central heating system</h2><p>If you're seeking an alternative to a central heating system, electric skirting boards are a suitable choice. They simply connect to the existing electrical grid in your home and are powered by an electric thermostat that controls the room's temperature.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-skirting-board-heating-costs"><span>Skirting board heating costs</span></h3><p>The installation costs will differ depending on the type of system used and the size of the room. Auckland notes, “Typically, wet systems are more expensive to install than dry systems, as they need to be connected to the central heating system and often require fairly complex pipework.”</p><p>Viktor Velikov, Director of ELSERVE, offers a general guideline to costs: “A wet skirting board heating system usually comes in at around £250 to £400 per metre installed, depending on the pipework and labour.” He adds, “Dry electric versions are cheaper upfront, closer to £150 to £275 per metre, but their running costs can be higher because electricity rates are higher than gas.”</p><p>Auckland adds, “Heated skirting boards typically take around a day to install.” He continues, “This means you can expect to pay around £1300 for an average-sized room, whereas dry systems start at roughly £1,000.”</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="can-i-install-skirting-board-heating-myself-2">Can I install skirting board heating myself?</h2><p>Electric skirting board heating is much easier to install than wet skirting board heating and could be tackled by a very competent DIYer. But, in reality, the installation of both systems should be left to a professional.</p><p>Auckland shares, “It’s important that you hire a qualified professional to install these systems as they can be complex and hazardous when not executed correctly”.</p><h2 id="can-i-paint-heated-skirting-boards-2">Can I paint heated skirting boards?</h2><p>Skirting board heating systems typically come in a base colour, often white. So if you want a different colour, or want to give them a refresh, you can consider painting them.</p><p>If you do decide to paint, Auckland says, “You must use the correct type of paint. Regular paints can flake off due to the heat, so it’s important to use a heat-resistant paint like you would use on a radiator.” Try this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hammerite-400ml-Radiator-Enamel-Aerosol/dp/B001GU8C3K/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hammerite Radiator Enamel Aerosol from Amazon</a>.</p><p>Auckland adds, “Before applying paint, always clean your skirting boards to remove dirt and dust to help the paint bond.” Ensure that you apply thin coats and avoid adding too many coats of paint, as this can reduce the skirting boards' heat output.</p><p>If you’re looking to install skirting board heating, you will need to<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-remove-skirting-boards"><u> remove old skirting boards</u></a> to make space for the new ones. It's also a good time to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-paint-a-room">paint a room</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-wooden-doors">paint doors</a> to give a space a completely fresh new look.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/skirting-board-heating</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ If you're wondering what skirting board heating is, this expert guide provides the answers. ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">QJsf8QC7iUbD8TkMo8EomR</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3WLAutJKHuA6hMsL4Mc3FP-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sun, 12 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Steve Jenkins ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3WLAutJKHuA6hMsL4Mc3FP-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Green wall with white skirting board heating, wooden floor and contemporary furniture]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Green wall with white skirting board heating, wooden floor and contemporary furniture]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3WLAutJKHuA6hMsL4Mc3FP-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Neither bland nor boring, white kitchen ideas are on the rise and here's why leading kitchen experts love designing them ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If white kitchen ideas fill you with fear, it's time to change your views say leading kitchen experts. Contrary to what some people think, white is definitely a colour more than capable of adding warmth, style and character to your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/designing-a-kitchen">kitchen design</a>. In fact, it's a colour that kitchen designers love working with.</p><p>"A warm white kitchen offers creative freedom for designers, meaning they can tailor the design to suit clients' tastes, explains Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr. "The versatility of white allows a designer to experiment with intricate worktops, accent colours and various hardware finishes, resulting in beautifully layered and considered design."</p><p>That said, there are still a few tricks to getting it right. Not convinced? We're confident these 19 white kitchen ideas will change your mind and leave you planning your kitchen in a whole new light.</p><h2 id="1-use-gold-or-brass-accents-for-extra-warmth-2">1. Use gold or brass accents for extra warmth</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="sJ824JPwtHgFh6NiHU3TkF" name="white kitchen ideas_9.TheRealShakerKitchen-deVOL_LOW-RES" alt="white kitchen with wooden topped island, brass and white pendant light, brass hardware and shelves above countertops" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sJ824JPwtHgFh6NiHU3TkF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Pair white kitchen cabinets with wood and gold or brass finishes for richness and warmth</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: deVOL)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The beauty of white kitchen ideas is that they can work with pretty much any shade, colour or tone you throw at them. But, as with every colour on the spectrum, what you pair them with will influence the final feel. Modern design lovers may lean towards black or chrome, while those who prefer a more traditional, homely feel will find themselves better off choosing finishes with gold or brass tones, says Al Bruce.</p><p>"Introducing gold accents, whether through hardware, lighting or statement features such as the cooker hood can elevate white kitchen cabinetry beautifully. Gold touches can also delicately highlight the warm tones found in organic materials such as natural stone and wood," says Al Bruce, founder of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://oliveandbarr.com/" target="_blank">Olive & Barr</a>, "while the patina and contrast of mixed materials adds further interest to the overall kitchen design.”</p><h2 id="2-create-contrast-with-black-or-navy-accents-2">2. Create contrast with black or navy accents</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="i6bMHKD8dg5Qd7UTe7tBeH" name="white kitchen ideas_1.TheRealShakerKitchen-deVOL_LOW-RES" alt="large kitchen with pitched roof and skylights, white kitchen units, navy based kitchen island light wood kitchen floor, light wood dining table, pendant lighting" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/i6bMHKD8dg5Qd7UTe7tBeH.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Adding black or navy to your white kitchen will help break up an all-white approach</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: deVOL)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Keen to add even more visual interest? Black or navy are great matches for white kitchens. But, avoid creating an entirely monochrome scheme by limiting the use of a darker colour to a few places.</p><p>In this kitchen design from deVOL, a black kitchen island creates a lovely focal point in the kitchen design, with black referenced again in the range cooker, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-island-lighting-ideas">kitchen island lighting</a>, patio doors and rooflights.</p><p>The thread of black throughout the scheme means that while it's very much a white kitchen idea, the black gives it enough of an edge to prevent the white walls and cabinets becoming too overpowering.</p><h2 id="3-white-kitchens-still-need-plenty-of-lighting-2">3. White kitchens still need plenty of lighting</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="GKQTtmp4Kxzpw9DnsiFf9G" name="white kitchen ideas_5.TheClassicEnglishKitchen-deVOL_LOW-RES" alt="kitchen with white units, dark wooden floor, yellow beam on ceiling and lots of hanging pendant lights" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GKQTtmp4Kxzpw9DnsiFf9G.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Adding lots of lighting will add character and tone to your white kitchen</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: deVOL)</span></figcaption></figure><p>It can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that a white kitchen needs less <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-light-a-kitchen">kitchen lighting</a> than other cabinet colours. But, it's a trap you need to avoid. While white kitchen cabinets and walls will reflect light, they won't generate light.</p><p>Instead, use your white backdrop as a chance to get creative with your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-lighting-ideas">kitchen lighting ideas</a>. Ceiling lighting in any kitchen is key as part of a layered approach, but instead of using standard ceiling spotlights, choose pendant lights hung in a multitude of locations.</p><p>But, make sure you choose the right types of bulbs, warns <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.davonport.com/" target="_blank">Davonport</a>'s managing director, Richard Davonport. "Lighting is an important element in white kitchens. Warm LED tones make a white kitchen feel more inviting and highlight those layered materials."</p><h2 id="shop-pendant-lighting-for-your-white-kitchen-2">Shop pendant lighting for your white kitchen</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="5d59ba2f-e731-41cf-a58d-999ddf4d05c5"> <a href="https://www.lights.co.uk/p/cubus-pendant-light-74-cm-6-bulb-clear-honey-brown-glass-9050007.html" data-model-name="Cubus Pendant Light" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nNMek67e2Fzt3gyVHr2Pp9.webp' alt="Cubus Pendant Light, 74 Cm, 6-Bulb, Clear/honey/brown, Glass"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Pendant Cluster</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Cubus Pendant Light</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Add this cluster of lights above your kitchen island for a warm and cosy glow</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="2e56fc7f-ae13-4901-8c3f-2d2e6905293e"> <a href="https://www.lights.co.uk/p/lindby-pendant-light-jadwiga-o-45-cm-bamboo-e27-10012834.html" data-model-name="Lindby Pendant Light Jadwiga" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Y8ejPFZ7w2czQhZ5f2W3uF.webp' alt="Lindby Pendant Light Jadwiga, Ø 45 Cm, Bamboo, E27"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Boho Vibes</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Lindby Pendant Light Jadwiga</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Dot these bamboo pendant lights around your ceiling for a boho white kitchen vibe</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="9eef86f0-aeec-42f6-88c1-ef9635a86fa0"> <a href="https://www.lights.co.uk/p/lindby-hanging-light-rangina-100-cm-copper-3-bulb-glass-9624701.html" data-model-name="Lindby Hanging Light Rangina" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FFXbxzeqZMtcZ8Utns3XSV.webp' alt="Lindby Hanging Light Rangina, 100 Cm, Copper, 3-Bulb, Glass"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Warm Copper</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Lindby Hanging Light Rangina</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Warm up your white kitchen with these copper and white glass pendant lights</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 id="4-combine-colour-texture-and-detail-for-a-boho-style-white-kitchen-2">4. Combine colour, texture and detail for a boho-style white kitchen</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="Lz74HbhURpRzSym5fGjRDG" name="white kitchen ideas_1.PearlLoweBeachHouse-deVOL-LowRes" alt="kitchen with white shaker units, window, yellow kitchen island, hanging copper pots, mirrorball, rugs on floor and rustic boho feel" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Lz74HbhURpRzSym5fGjRDG.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Far from sterile, this white eclectic kitchen is warm, cosy and bursting with style</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: deVOL)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you're a fan of boho interiors like me, there's nothing like an eclectic white kitchen filled with personality and character to get the ideas flowing. So why does a scheme like this feel boho?</p><p>"Lighter kitchens, which are a little more minimal, with dull gentle beiges and creams, old wood and concrete, give Ibiza vibes," explains Helen Parker, creative director of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.devolkitchens.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">deVOL</a>.</p><p>"Featuring natural decorations such as dried foliage, raffia and vintage cane furniture, this look is simple and uncluttered. Use light stone flooring, or brick floors, handmade rugs and a colour palette that sticks to natural tones. No fancy lighting," she adds, "instead choose something industrial or wispy and natural.</p><p>"Open shelves and beautifully crafted pottery and linens, will make this style of kitchen feel just like a summer holiday."</p><h2 id="5-use-wooden-flooring-for-extra-elegance-2">5. Use wooden flooring for extra elegance</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="ZTJuXVbvDicpgcAcxastTg" name="white kitchen ideas_Clanricarde Gardens - 08" alt="kitchen with light wooden flooring, off white units, large window and waterfall edged kitchen island with marble finish" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZTJuXVbvDicpgcAcxastTg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>This warm white kitchen oozes with sophisticated vibes</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Photography by Calvert Studio for Havwoods)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-flooring-ideas">kitchen flooring ideas</a> you choose for your white kitchen will need careful consideration in order to get the balance right between practicality, performance and a polished design.</p><p>So what do experts recommend?</p><p>"Light wood flooring is a beautiful and practical choice for a white kitchen, enhancing the simplicity of a neutral palette while bringing warmth, depth, and natural texture to the space," says Paul Moody, global marketing and digital director of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.havwoods.com/uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Havwoods</a>.</p><p>"Often seen as a cool or minimal colour, white truly comes to life when paired with the organic character of timber. Whether you choose the classic look of wide 1-strip boards or the added interest of a herringbone or chevron pattern, wood flooring complements white cabinetry perfectly.</p><p>"<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-engineered-wood-flooring">Engineered wood flooring</a> is also an exceptionally stable choice," he suggests, "and also works seamlessly with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/underfloor-heating-guide">underfloor heating</a>. For an elevated touch, a finish with a delicate white pigment can soften the grain and highlight the natural beauty of the timber, creating a versatile floor that reflects light beautifully and enhances the calm, minimalist charm of a white kitchen.”</p><h2 id="6-use-white-pale-blue-and-wood-for-a-modern-coastal-feel-2">6. Use white, pale blue and wood for a modern coastal feel</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="i2NCXVXqtGxEELJ5YRH33G" name="white kitchen ideas_3.TheRealShakerKitchen-deVOL_LOW-RES" alt="kitchen with white units one side, blue floor to ceiling cabinets and ladder on the other side, wooden floor and dining table in middle of room" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/i2NCXVXqtGxEELJ5YRH33G.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Pale blue and wood is perfect for a kitchen renovation project</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: deVOL)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Although renovating coastal homes isn't an invitation to fall into the cliché of drenching your interiors in driftwood and shades of blue and white, there's no doubting these colours and materials work well together.</p><p>So, whether you're located on the beachfront or not, calling on them when finalising your white kitchen ideas in a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-renovate-a-kitchen">kitchen renovation</a> will result in a soft and soothing space that's impossible not to love.</p><p>Add drama with floor-to-ceiling cabinets on one side of the room, then off-set it with low-level cabinets and kitchen shelving on the other. Finish with wooden herringbone flooring, a rustic dining table, a shell-like pendant light and your scheme is complete.</p><h2 id="7-matt-vs-gloss-white-why-getting-your-finishes-right-is-key-2">7. Matt vs gloss white – why getting your finishes right is key</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="RQg36VGNf9WpQGngSS3zvP" name="white kitchen ideas_Kitchens by Buster + Punch_ Off Black Island Cabinets, Stone Grey Tall Units £POA, Cross Pull Bars Smoked Bronze from £75, Exhaust Pendant in Graphite and Smoked Bronze £275, Cross Exhaust Surface Light £174 (bustera" alt="off white modern kitchen with large rooflight, crittal style doors and brick internal wall feature" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RQg36VGNf9WpQGngSS3zvP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>In a modern setting, a matt off-white approach works perfectly with black and brick</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Buster + Punch)</span></figcaption></figure><p>“White kitchens remain popular because they create a sense of space and light, but the success of the design depends on how you use the colour," says Richard Davonport.</p><p>"The key is to build warmth and definition so the space doesn’t feel sterile. That starts with the undertone. In north-facing rooms, warmer whites such as ivory or chalk help soften the light; in south-facing rooms, a cleaner white will work provided it’s balanced with texture.</p><p>"Paint finish makes a big difference too," he adds. "Matt or eggshell paint absorbs light, helping surfaces appear softer and more natural. Add variation through the materials you pair with it such as timber flooring, honed stone, tiled splashbacks or brushed metal hardware, as these all help a white kitchen to come alive."</p><h2 id="8-a-white-shaker-style-kitchen-is-the-ultimate-in-sophisticated-simplicity-2">8. A white Shaker-style kitchen is the ultimate in sophisticated simplicity</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="smW4AxzLgdXs3pEn5nXZcg" name="white kitchen ideas_DC4934 - 003" alt="white shaker kitchen with matt chrome hardware and light tiled floor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/smW4AxzLgdXs3pEn5nXZcg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Who doesn't love the clean and elegant lines of a white Shaker kitchen</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Hendel & Hendel/Darren Chung)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Unsure which style of kitchen cabinet to choose? For a timeless white kitchen idea, choosing a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-a-shaker-kitchen">Shaker-style kitchen</a> will leave you with an elegant and long-lasting design.</p><p>Throw in an antique mirrored kitchen splashback, slimline handles, floor-to-ceiling cabinets and a large format <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-floor-tile-ideas">kitchen floor tile idea</a> and it will feel like you spend every day in a high-end kitchen showroom.</p><p>Plus, opting for such a simple but classic design means if you do ever fancy a kitchen renovation and a change of colour, you could easily test out other trends such as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/kitchen/sage-green-kitchen-cabinets">sage green kitchen cabinets</a>. Just be sure to follow the advice in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-kitchen-cabinets">painting kitchen cabinets </a>to achieve a flawless finish.</p><h2 id="9-white-kitchens-are-perfect-for-open-plan-layouts-2">9. White kitchens are perfect for open-plan layouts</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="3rT2eLCxH2iLWGf8Mm9qcg" name="white kitchen ideas_Carnforth_Residential3" alt="open plan kitchen diner and living room with white units, large wooden table with black chairs, white sofas and wooden floor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3rT2eLCxH2iLWGf8Mm9qcg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>An open-plan layout with a white kitchen ensures focus is on socialising areas, rather than functional spaces</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Photography by Calvert Studio for Havwoods)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/open-plan-kitchen-extensions">open-plan kitchen extension</a> includes kitchen, dining and living room zones, but you don't want the focus to be on the kitchen, a white kitchen idea is the perfect solution.</p><p>For minimal disruption to the eye, opt for handleless kitchen cabinets and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/integrated-vs-freestanding-kitchen-appliances">integrated appliances vs freestanding</a> so that everything is hidden in plain sight. Then, to make sure there is cohesion across each different zone, don't suddenly create a massive contrast with the rest of your interior decor,</p><p>Instead, as in the home featured, stick to a lighter and natural colour palette throughout so that the boundaries between the zones remain virtually invisible to the eye.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="58c72205-df08-45af-be13-4def479959d0"> <a href="https://dusk.com/products/heidi-solid-oak-oval-6-8-seater-dining-table-natural?" data-model-name="Heidi Solid Oak Oval 6-8 Seater Dining Table - Natural" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Tbb7dhbLeXpDYJgjKyoyYh.jpg' alt="Heidi Solid Oak Oval 6-8 Seater Dining Table - Natural"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Heidi Solid Oak Oval 6-8 Seater Dining Table - Natural</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This solid oak table with black and wicker chairs is perfect for pairing with your white open-plan kitchen</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 id="10-inject-subtle-pops-of-colour-if-all-white-isn-t-for-you-2">10. Inject subtle pops of colour if all white isn't for you</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="TQPupD2aBUHd3u3hYv97eg" name="white kitchen ideas_Adelaide-Crescent-Pfeiffer-55" alt="off white kitchen with pale blue kitchen island" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TQPupD2aBUHd3u3hYv97eg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>An off-white kitchen works perfectly with pale blue or pink</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Pfeiffer Design)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Of course, while white minimalism works for some, it's not everyone's cup of tea. But, use it as a canvas says Jenna Forsdyke, interior designer at<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.pfeifferdesign.co.uk/" target="_blank"> Pfeiffer Design,</a> and you won't go far wrong.</p><p>“Offering a clean and versatile backdrop, a white kitchen acts as the perfect blank canvas that can evolve with your style, whilst still offering a timeless aesthetic. To introduce colour without overwhelming the space, start with eye-catching accents that can be easily updated," she suggests.</p><p>"Think bar stools in beautiful fabrics, interesting lighting and personal touches such as crockery to add pops of colour to shelving. The key is to keep the permanent elements neutral and let colour appear through the details.”</p><h2 id="11-use-kitchen-wallpaper-to-elevate-your-white-kitchen-2">11. Use kitchen wallpaper to elevate your white kitchen</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="yJZj3sZsCRQAU6KEeSMueg" name="white kitchen ideas_Buster + Punch, Cross Pull Bar Plate Cabinet Hardware in Steel from £99 each, Credits - Project_ @ablazedesigngroup for @lfshowhouse Photographer_ Nathan Kirkman (@nathankirkmanphoto) (busterandpunch.com)" alt="off white kitchen units with blue striped wallpaper on walls, small dark wood shelves and cream blind at window above sink" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yJZj3sZsCRQAU6KEeSMueg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The right wallpaper will help bring your kitchen space to life</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Buster + Punch)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Given technological advances in product design mean that the answer to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/wallpaper-in-a-kitchen">can you use wallpaper in a kitchen </a>is yes, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-wallpaper-ideas">kitchen wallpaper ideas</a> are often the jewel in the crown to white kitchen ideas.</p><p>With white as your backdrop, there's no limitations as to the colours, or designs you can choose. From modern abstract designs through to the traditional stripes used here, just make sure the product you use is suitable for use.</p><p>And, if you want to protect your wallpaper from too many splashes or stains, consider a small worktop <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-high-should-my-tiled-upstand-be">upstand, </a>even if you don't opt for a full splashback.</p><h2 id="shop-kitchen-wallpaper-to-add-interest-to-your-space-2">Shop kitchen wallpaper to add interest to your space</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="75cee781-fbac-45ed-85a8-3efc53ce2c37"> <a href="https://www.wallpaperdirect.com/products/joules/fields-edge-floral/193953" data-model-name="Fields Edge Floral by Joules - Antique Creme - Wallpaper - 118569" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/s4vqeDPubF9JUKKvL6MyN8.webp' alt="Fields Edge Floral by Joules - Antique Creme - Wallpaper - 118569"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Pink Floral</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fields Edge Floral by Joules - Antique Creme - Wallpaper - 118569</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Add a burst of colour to your kitchen walls with this pretty pink floral wallpaper </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d1e819fa-c381-45d0-89e7-fc8e5b679d7a"> <a href="https://www.wallpaperdirect.com/products/galerie/painterly-stripe/213105" data-model-name="Painterly Stripe by Galerie - Blue - Wallpaper - Pf38100" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AHpHRrhXAJAiwTUicfZKVS.webp' alt="Painterly Stripe by Galerie - Blue - Wallpaper - Pf38100"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Simple Stripe</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Painterly Stripe by Galerie - Blue - Wallpaper - Pf38100</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Keep it simple with a light striped wallpaper that will add a fresh feel to a classic white kitchen design</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="18008c69-3bfc-45f3-9870-c6447db9e68f"> <a href="https://www.wallpaperdirect.com/products/albany/wild-meadow/212144" data-model-name="Wild Meadow by Albany - Mustard - Wallpaper - Fd43336" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/zxgMYmLbCgZ2cuSwYaGX7c.webp' alt="Wild Meadow by Albany - Mustard - Wallpaper - Fd43336"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Yellow Meadow</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Wild Meadow by Albany - Mustard - Wallpaper - Fd43336</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Bring the outdoors in with this bold yellow wallpaper featuring a pretty array of meadow flowers</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 id="12-frame-your-standout-splashback-with-white-kitchen-cabinets-2">12. Frame your standout splashback with white kitchen cabinets</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="kLJshmeZApxgPc3g5LUUmP" name="white kitchen ideas_gayafores-calacatta-monet-marble-porcelain-tiles-1" alt="white kitchen units, marble tiled splashback with green worktop, side panels and backsplash detail above sink area" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/kLJshmeZApxgPc3g5LUUmP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>White cabinets provide the perfect frame for other more dramatic kitchen features</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Calacatta Monet tiles by Gayafores)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The beauty of white kitchen ideas is they can also provide a framework that sits around any other kitchen design features you've chosen to be the main focus of the space.</p><p>Here, a stunning marble porcelain tiled splashback with green feature panels and worktop is nestled within white handless kitchen cabinets that run from floor to ceiling and the width of the wall.</p><p>Instead of seeing cabinets, all you notice is the gorgeous colours and finishes of the feature wall. This then perfectly flows into the rest of the room, with a marble tiled floor adding a final flourish to this designer space.</p><h2 id="13-add-glamour-with-gold-and-pops-of-pink-2">13. Add glamour with gold and pops of pink</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="Nfv4fS3qK8r5MpVzQzxRqP" name="white kitchen ideas_goodhome-8085860-goodhome-stevia-gloss-white-kitch" alt="white gloss kitchen with wooden floor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Nfv4fS3qK8r5MpVzQzxRqP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Architectural curves and gold hardware turn this white gloss kitchen into a style oasis</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Good Home by B&Q)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Although white gloss kitchens are a trend we haven't seen sight of for many years, having come across this idea when writing this article, I'm beginning to think we may have abandoned them too hastily.</p><p>Far from looking cheap and cheerful, the addition of architectural curves, matt gold hardware, soft pink and natural wood turn this gloss white kitchen into one that looks far more glamorous than I thought possible.</p><p>And, while the fingerprints on gloss cabinets may still leave me on the sidelines when it comes to choosing one in my own home, if there were no children present, then I'm no longer categorically a 'no thanks'.</p><h2 id="14-introduce-colour-and-texture-using-nature-as-inspiration-2">14. Introduce colour and texture using nature as inspiration</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="YoMRDn3xpwBVJeKRUYTXuP" name="white kitchen ideas_DECOCER_PLUMA 8X21,5" alt="kitchen with white units, terracotta color island panel, green, terracotta and yellow tiles o n wall, raffia pendant lights" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YoMRDn3xpwBVJeKRUYTXuP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Fill your kitchen with colour and texture using a natural colour palette</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Pasta Blanca tiles by Decocer)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you're wondering which kitchen tile colours work best with your white kitchen, there isn't one set answer of course. White is the ultimate kitchen colour in that you can choose to match it to whatever you like the most.</p><p>But, if you're looking for some help, this is what Maria D Arráez, director of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://tileofspain.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Tile of Spain</a> UK suggests.</p><p>“One option is to go for a contrasting look for real impact; so a colourful mosaic or bold patterned tile for your splashback really draws the eye in and is the ideal companion for white cabinetry.</p><p>"Alternatively, for a more serene space, stick to a neutral colour palette in varying shades or natural material-effect tiles, in wood or stone, to add subtle depth and texture," says Maria.</p><h2 id="15-don-t-underestimate-the-importance-of-your-hardware-and-interiors-2">15. Don't underestimate the importance of your hardware and interiors</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="mK53gVSVs2MJynzSGkoazP" name="white kitchen ideas_hendel & hendel_DC4934 - 009" alt="close up of open kitchen drawer with matt chrome handle and dark wooden insert inside drawer" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mK53gVSVs2MJynzSGkoazP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>White cabinets need hardware and interior finishes that bring white to life</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Hendel & Hendel/Darren Chung)</span></figcaption></figure><p>While a white kitchen may be timeless, it's important not to forget about some of the smaller details, advise the experts.</p><p>“A white kitchen will always have timeless appeal, but the challenge lies in keeping it from feeling sterile," says Gareth Hull, product lead at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://hendelandhendel.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hendel & Hendel</a>.</p><p>"Hardware is where you can start to introduce warmth, definition and texture; those subtle layers that stop the space from falling flat. Handles and knobs might seem like finishing touches – but in fact, we strongly advocate picking hardware at the start of your kitchen journey – as they are often what give a kitchen its tone and personality. In a room full of white surfaces, they are the elements that draw the eye, inviting touch and adding depth.</p><p>"Brushed nickel sits comfortably between warm and cool tones," says Gareth, "making it an ideal middle ground. It offers the subtlety of a warm silver metal – less reflective than chrome but lighter than brass – which means it pairs effortlessly with both cool white paints and warmer off-whites. It’s a finish that brings balance, lending a tailored, timeless quality without feeling too traditional or too industrial."</p><h2 id="16-blend-off-white-with-black-and-chrome-for-a-kitchen-masterclass-2">16. Blend off-white with black and chrome for a kitchen masterclass</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="YcHr7YPWNPf4iWzWyd5wqn" name="white kitchen ideas_Kitchens by Buster + Punch_ Stone Grey with Dekton Argentium Worktop (£POA), Cross Pull Bars in Smoked Bronze from £75, Exhaust Surface in Smoked Bronze £174, Utensil Rail, 2G Plug Socket in Smoked Bronze £33, Stone" alt="white modern kitchen with chrome extractor, black hardware and light wooden floor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YcHr7YPWNPf4iWzWyd5wqn.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Subtle tones, shades of off white, light wood and chrome make this white kitchen idea a winner</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Buster + Punch)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If, like us, you've heard the rumours that chrome is coming back, how can you use it in your white kitchen without it feeling reminiscent of something you saw in the 90s? It's not as tricky as you might think if this example is anything to go by.</p><p>"Chrome is re-emerging," confirms Gareth Hull, "and its clean, mirror-like surface feels fresh again, particularly when paired with matt paint finishes or fluted cabinetry. Used thoughtfully, these metals can transform a white kitchen from stark to layered, proving that tone and texture matter just as much as colour.</p><p>“Texture in fact is just as powerful as tone," he adds. "A forged pull handle or a knurled knob brings tactile detail that catches the light differently to a painted surface. These small shifts in texture and sheen can completely change the mood of a white kitchen. Ultimately, a white kitchen doesn’t have to mean ‘all white’, it’s about layering metal, texture and proportion so the space feels crafted and not clinical.”</p><h2 id="17-think-warm-white-when-using-white-on-white-2">17. Think warm white when using white on white</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="Wf6zTCyNvoeKtSnp4oo6zn" name="white kitchen ideas_Olive & Barr - Handmade Shaker Kitchen from £10,000 (oliveandbarr (12)" alt="white kitchen units, marble effect worktop and upstand and glossy white tiles" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Wf6zTCyNvoeKtSnp4oo6zn.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>White on white? Make sure you get your tones and shades just right</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Olive & Barr)</span></figcaption></figure><p>“A white kitchen design offers a host of benefits, providing a versatile backdrop that can complement a range of styles, from modern to more traditional. But, like all colours, white comes in an abundance of shades, with both warm and cool undertones," says Al Bruce.</p><p>His advice for choosing which whites to use? "It’s always worth sampling different hues to ensure you’re happy with the tone. Warm whites tend to feel cosier and more inviting, while cool white suits a more contemporary look. Once you’ve made your choice of colour, you can begin to build a design scheme, adding both depth and balance.”</p><p>"A glazed ceramic tiled splashback can also help to reflect light and create movement," adds Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://capietra.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Ca'Pietra</a>. "We often recommend combining matt floor tiles with glossy wall tiles to create balance as the interplay of finishes adds quiet interest without relying on pattern.</p><p>"Most importantly, a white kitchen doesn’t have to mean ‘all white’," she adds. "Tiles are the perfect opportunity to inject tone, texture or natural variation, transforming a simple palette into something beautifully individual. Whether you choose tumbled stone, terracotta, or a glossy ceramic, the materiality of your tiles will dictate the mood, turning cool and clinical into calm and characterful.”</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="786a01f3-d172-488d-8697-dcfd07596fd5"> <a href="https://www.hyperiontiles.co.uk/products/kinfolk-porcelain-white?_pos=2&_sid=85ee85df4&_ss=r" data-model-name="Kinfolk Porcelain White" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:117.50%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/n7VXMt5PqAvNCWqHDk7PfK.jpg' alt="Kinfolk Porcelain White"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Kinfolk Porcelain White</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Try these white tiles for your kitchen splashback. Their textured finish will add a little extra depth to your space</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 id="18-build-in-layers-to-avoid-a-flat-finish-2">18. Build in layers to avoid a flat finish</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="yU8EPxWUcDUfXnpupqcnxn" name="white kitchen ideas_TILLINGHAM DC3931-002" alt="large white kitchen with blue upholstered seating area integrated with kitchen island" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yU8EPxWUcDUfXnpupqcnxn.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>This kitchen scheme was carefully executed with tones, paint finishes and pops of colour to ensure it felt warm and welcoming</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Davonport)</span></figcaption></figure><p>In larger kitchens, making sure white doesn't become overpowering is important in order to avoid it from feeling like a hospital waiting room.</p><p>"Keeping the cabinetry pale but introducing contrast on the island, worktops or seating area adds depth without breaking up the flow," advises Richard Davonrport. "Neutral colours such as putty, mushroom or pale sage sit comfortably alongside white, and a change in texture, for example wood or quartz, will give subtle distinction.</p><p>The Davonport project featured above shows how this works in practice. "The cabinetry was painted in a soft white-grey tone, paired with light quartz worktops to keep the scheme bright," he explains.</p><p>"To avoid a flat look, we introduced a curved island with banquette seating upholstered in a muted blue. The colour adds visual weight at the centre of the room, while the curved shape improves flow and defines the dining area, and gives the kitchen an unusual feature. It’s a good example of how a white kitchen can still have plenty of character."</p><h2 id="19-anchor-your-white-kitchen-with-the-right-floor-tiles-2">19. Anchor your white kitchen with the right floor tiles</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="hhGUz5EAUncKfMm3MsBF3o" name="white kitchen ideas_Philippa Kitchen_09" alt="large white kitchen with brass hardware and light terracotta tiled floor in herringbone pattern" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hhGUz5EAUncKfMm3MsBF3o.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Terracotta tiles give this kitchen a modern rustic feel and prevent it from feeling too sterile</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Ca'Pietra)</span></figcaption></figure><p>“White kitchens work best when they have texture, warmth and contrast," says Grazzie Wilson, "and that is where floor tiles make all the difference. A kitchen built around white cabinetry can look clean and fresh, but without the right surfaces it risks feeling flat or sterile. Tiles bring tactility, pattern and natural variation as they help the space feel layered and lived-in rather than stark.</p><p>"If you want to keep the scheme soft and relaxed, pair white cabinetry with stone or limestone tiles in gentle, chalky tones," she suggests. "The variation in natural stone underfoot creates a subtle patina that warms up the space, while porcelain stone-effects give the same look with less maintenance. Or, in open-plan rooms, a larger format tile in a pale beige or warm grey will add a sense of flow and light without competing with the cabinetry.</p><p>"Terracotta is another material that works beautifully with white kitchens," adds Grazzie. "The earthy tones instantly anchor the space, adding a rustic warmth that complements both Shaker-style and contemporary designs. Used on a floor or even as a small run of wall tiles, terracotta introduces a handmade, sun-baked quality that feels inviting and timeless."</p><p>If white isn't yet top of your list, don't forget, there are plenty of other <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/kitchen-ideas">kitchen ideas</a> to choose from too. Try out these <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/navy-kitchen-ideas">navy kitchen ideas</a> for a darker kitchen scheme, or if white has piqued your interest and you're considering a makeover, make sure you know <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-paint-laminate-kitchen-cupboards">how to paint laminate kitchen cupboards</a> before you start wielding your paintbrush.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/kitchen/white-kitchen-ideas</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Think white kitchen ideas are sterile? Think again say kitchen designers. It's a great colour to work with and here's 19 ideas that prove why ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">KPEqe8ewUHfoquKMyt4CNj</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LMTLpEWwG8sTZDdDETPfom-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sun, 12 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Kitchen]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ sarah.harley@futurenet.com (Sarah Harley) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Sarah Harley ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LMTLpEWwG8sTZDdDETPfom-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[deVOL]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[white kitchen with yellow beam, wooden worktop and lots of pendant lights]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[white kitchen with yellow beam, wooden worktop and lots of pendant lights]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LMTLpEWwG8sTZDdDETPfom-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Why is some paint so expensive — and is it actually any better? Why the answer is often 'yes' ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>After a recent visit to our local decorating warehouse, on a mission to buy paint to turn my daughter's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/teenage-bedroom-ideas">teenage bedroom ideas</a> into a reality, I was more surprised than ever at the significant price gap between top-of-the range 'designer' brand paints and the retail equivalents.</p><p>Not wanting to sound mean, but the idea of spending hundreds of pounds painting the walls of a room that will, in all likelihood, end up getting spritzed with perfume and hair oils, smeared with the odd blob of leftover moisturiser and scraped by shoes, jewelry and accessories during rushed exits out of the door, is not overly appealing.</p><p>That said, I know from past experiences that buying cheap-as-chips paint can mean having to applying coat upon coat to achieve a good finish, plus some have faded alarmingly quickly.</p><p>To help me resolve the dilemma, I reached out to some of the top experts in the field to find out why designer paints cost so much more. Is it worth spending extra, or should I save my pennies and spend them on other aspects of the project?</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-retail-trade-and-designer-paints-what-s-the-difference"><span>Retail, trade and designer paints – what's the difference?</span></h3><p>Even as a homes and interiors writer, I'll admit to feeling really daunted when it comes to choosing from the many <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-paint">types of paint</a> on offer – there is just such an enormous range, and understanding exactly what you are looking at is confusing. It helped for me to realise there are three main categories of paint: retail, trade and designer.</p><p>'The paint market in the UK is split into three main sections,' picks up professional painter and decorator Mike Gregory who advises for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.thedecoratorsforum.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Decorators Forum UK</a>. 'You have retail paint, which is made from cheap materials and sold on mass to homeowners. You have trade paint, which is slightly more expensive and made from better quality materials but is still competitively priced. Then you have the luxury designer paint products that come with a premium price tag and a big fanfare.</p><p>'The difference in retail paint vs trade paint is quite significant and it’s important to know what you’re buying,' continue Mike. 'The way a paint manufacturer designs a product is by first looking at the target audience, working out the cost a tin of paint should be for a retailer to sell a high volume, then produce the best product they can for that budget. Retail paint is made for the DIY market. The paint is of a lower quality, made from cheaper materials and sold to people who don’t really know the difference.</p><p>'Trade paint, the type you find at trade counters, is made for the professional decorator. The paint may cost a lot more, however it is made from better quality materials and the product will perform to a higher level.</p><p>'Designer paint is far more expensive than trade,' adds Mike. 'Is it worth it? In most cases, yes. As a sweeping statement, the luxury products tend to be good quality.'</p><p>For reference, lets compare the three price points for a 2.5 tin of white paint. B&Q's own brand, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.diy.com/departments/goodhome-brilliant-white-vinyl-matt-wall-ceiling-emulsion-paint-2-5l/5063022526182_BQ.prd" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">GoodHome Brilliant White Vinyl Matt Wall & Ceiling Emulsion paint</a> costs £12, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.diy.com/departments/dulux-trade-diamond-pure-brilliant-white-matt-wall-ceiling-emulsion-paint-2-5l/330143_BQ.prd" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Dulux Trade Diamond Pure brilliant White Matt Wall & Ceiling Emulsion paint</a> costs £35 while <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.farrow-ball.com/paint/all-white/modern-emulsion" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">No. 2005 All White Modern Emulsion from Farrow & Ball</a> costs £63.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-why-are-designer-paints-more-expensive"><span>Why are designer paints more expensive?</span></h3><p>All the experts I spoke to were in agreement that premium paints were worth the extra cost, but I still wanted to know why.</p><p>It seemed that the answer lay in the quality of the ingredients used and how much easier they make <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-paint-a-room">painting a room</a> – not just the fancy packaging and clever colour names.</p><p>"Premium interior paints are much more likely to be formulated with higher quality ingredients versus their cheaper counterparts, resulting in better coverage, richer depth of colour, and enhanced durability," explains Ian Masonbury, brand director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://armourcoat.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Armourcoat</a>. "The higher cost helps ensure a reliable, superior finish that requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage, and can last for years without the need to regularly repaint."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="88SvuSGUtPuURB4otuSXub" name="Laura-Hammett-Living,-Mulberry-Immaculate-Emulsion,-£60-for-2.5L,-www.laurahammettliving" alt="grand dining room with mulberry coloured walls" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/88SvuSGUtPuURB4otuSXub.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The depth, finish, colour range and coverage of premium paints seems to justify the extra cost in many cases</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Laura Hammett Living)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-is-expensive-paint-worth-it"><span>Is expensive paint worth it?</span></h3><p>What I really wanted to know was whether or not I would feel that the extra money I spent on the designer paint was, ultimately, worth it, both while I was physically <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-a-wall">painting a wall</a> as well as a few months (or hopefully years) down the line.</p><p>"Premium paints typically contain a much higher pigment concentration and finer quality binders, which means the colour appears richer, more consistent, and more resistant to fading over time," explains interior designer Laura Hammett, founder of award winning interior architect and design studio <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://laurahammettliving.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Laura Hammett Living</a>. "They also tend to have better coverage, so fewer coats are needed to achieve a flawless result."</p><p>According to Helen Shaw from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Benjamin Moore</a>, who offer both trade and premium paints, there are other benefits too, including a greater breadth of colour choice.</p><p>"Premium paints are ideal for consumers and interior designers, with Benjamin Moore’s range offering over 3,500 colours to choose from," she says. "Exclusive technologies such as our ‘Colour Lock’ deliver rich hues that resist fading over time. These paints deliver a higher level of premium pigment and binder, resulting in a better depth of colour. They have been designed to deliver superior flow and levelling, so brush and roller marks virtually disappear, leaving a flawless finish."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="QdgKwqUPvuNeN27CHSmnHD" name="Benjamin-Moore-painted-living-room" alt="living room with patterned chaise longue and coral walls with blue painted woodwork" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QdgKwqUPvuNeN27CHSmnHD.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Both premium and high-end trade paints tend to make applying the paint easier thanks to their superior consistency</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-is-trade-paint-as-good-as-designer"><span>Is trade paint as good as designer?</span></h3><p>Trade paint sits in the middle of the price range, between premium and retail, offering longevity and better application than retail.</p><p>"Some of the qualities that lack in retail paint vs trade paint are opacity, ease of use, discolouration over time, and durability," explains Mike Gregory. "Not just that, but trade paint will normally go further."</p><p>But how do they compare to premium paints and are they a better option for, say, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/childrens-bedroom-design">children's bedroom design</a> where durability might be more important than colour depth?</p><p>"We know most luxury designer brands are better quality than standard trade products, but don’t discount trade just yet," says Mike Gregory. "A few years ago, trade stepped up to the plate and started producing premium versions of their paint so they could compete with the luxury brands. Dulux have Heritage, Crown have Crafted, and Johnstone’s have Perfect Matt.</p><p>"Here we have three ranges from the three big trade brands in the UK. All premium quality, but without the fanfare that comes with the luxury designer brands," continues Mike. "When it comes to bang for your buck, these paints are a better option than the designer brands."</p><p>"Trade paints are designed for professional decorators who can be working in residential or commercial spaces," explains Helen Shaw. "They are specially formulated to deliver a quick drying, easy to spread, high opacity finish and can be applied efficiently over large surfaces, making them the perfect choice when a job is time critical. As they are often used in high traffic, commercial environments, trade formulas are designed to deliver an exceptionally high level of durability. For instance, our commercial lines, SCUFF-X and Ultra Spec 500, are perfect for anyone needing a tough, scuff resistant finish and will withstand repeated cleaning and washing."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="YshxPhhxxgqMSamSHoWdoL" name="Earthborn" alt="classic kitchen with chalk paint from Earthborn on the walls and marble worktop" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YshxPhhxxgqMSamSHoWdoL.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The velvety soft, chalky, matt finishes of premium and high-end trade paints is hard to find at retail prices</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Earthborn)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="shop-trade-paints-2">Shop trade paints</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="7e10227a-8422-44de-a59c-c4700f9872cb"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dulux-Heritage-Velvet-Emulsion-Potters/dp/B09HCQBMLG/ref=sr_1_12?" data-model-name="Dulux Trade Heritage Velvet Matt Emulsion Potters Pink 1ltr" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4fxPxxnRc7tozHHi6J7xCF.jpg' alt="Dulux Heritage Velvet Matt paint in Potters Pink"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Dulux Trade Heritage Velvet Matt Emulsion Potters Pink 1ltr</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><strong>Price:</strong> £38.00<br>Dulux Heritage is a premium range of trade paints that covers well, gives a beautifully soft finish and comes in a wide selection of classic, timeless shades. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="dce135b6-4e75-4b2e-abb3-b201d9a85278"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/crown-crafted-luxurious-flat-matt-paint-2-5l-new-chapter/5060954527508_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Crown Crafted Luxurious Flat Matt Paint 2.5L - New Chapter" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Nbpm7VZeChQXDsaitruwvQ.jpg' alt="Crown Crafted new Chapter matt paint"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Crown Crafted Luxurious Flat Matt Paint 2.5L - New Chapter</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><strong>Price:</strong> £28.99<br>Giving a velvety, very matt finish, this offering from Crown is 99% solvent free, easy-to-apply and works just as well on walls and ceilings as it does on woodwork, such as skirting. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="77f7fbc6-d672-43b0-9f2a-20a3147a1c6b"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Perfect-Matt-Johnstones-Brilliant-White/dp/B098JTHMYY/ref=asc_df_B098JTHMYY?" data-model-name=" Johnstone's Perfect Matt Brilliant White 5L" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ysAhMGCKG2zny4XiHqi2zQ.jpg' alt="Johnstone's trade paint"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title"> Johnstone's Perfect Matt Brilliant White 5L</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><strong>Price:</strong> £49.50 was £67.91<br>Designed to give a flawless finish, with no application marks, this also blends perfectly when used for spot repairs. It is Class 1 Scrub Resistant too – meaning maximum resistance when cleaned. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-what-did-i-end-up-choosing"><span>What did I end up choosing?</span></h3><p>For reference, my daughter was keen on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-a-bathroom">painting the bedroom</a> walls a warm, vintage white. For the chimney breast she wanted a soft black, and we plan on adding some grid-style wall panelling too. After some back and forthing with various sample pots we eventually settled on the shades we liked.</p><p>We opted for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.farrow-ball.com/paint/railings?" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Railings by Farrow & Ball</a>, a beautiful soft black with just the tiniest hint of blue for the chimneybreast. For the warm white I lost count of the number of tester pots we got through, but eventually we fell in love with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://earthbornpaints.co.uk/colour/marbles">Marbles by Earthborn</a> for the main walls, a really warm, vintage-inspired white. Earthborn paints are clay-based and give a beautiful, ultra matt, almost powdery finish.</p><p>I decided to opt for the real deal for the chimney breast, paying £33 for a 750ml tin of the Dead Flat finish. In a bid to save a little, we plumped for a trade paint, Albany Durable Matt, colour matched to the Earthborn shade, saving £20 in the process. Which, on reflection isn't a huge amount.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="Q7ovaYdRnVnYQkobMvYafS" name="Bedorom-paint" alt="partially decorated bedroom with black painted chimney breast and white fireplace with neutral walls" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Q7ovaYdRnVnYQkobMvYafS.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A work in progress. The chimney breast, painted in premium paint, has a better finish and was easier to paint than the other walls, although after several coats, we are pleased with the results of our trade choice too</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Natasha Brinsmead)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-did-the-premium-and-trade-compare"><span>How did the premium and trade compare?</span></h3><p>I wish I could tell you that the trade and the premium paint performed just as well, that there was no difference whatsoever – but I can't.</p><p>While the colour matching was pretty much spot on, the ease of application, coverage and finish of the trade paint, while good, wasn't up there with the premium. After a single coat of the Farrow & Ball paint I could have probably stopped, while I ended up needing three of the trade, although this was partly due to the need to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-paint-over-dark-colours">paint over dark colours</a> to disguise the numerous painted samples on these walls.</p><p>The way the premium paint reacts to the light is somehow superior too. The finish is way more matt in a way that is hard to describe – it just looks, well, premium.</p><p>"Premium paints offer wall colour with tangible depth, texture, and longevity, ensuring a superior surface finish that’s hard to obtain with cheaper alternatives," agrees Ian Masonbury, a sentiment echoed by Laura Hammett.</p><p>"Premium paints create a smoother, more refined surface with minimal visible brush or roller marks, which can completely elevate the look and feel of a room," she explains. "They’re also more durable and washable, making them ideal for busy homes where walls need to stand up to everyday wear without compromising on appearance."</p><h2 id="shop-premium-paints-2">Shop premium paints</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="aa49fd10-edd5-4c4c-b20f-8dc7adcd0e78"> <a href="https://earthbornpaints.co.uk/colour/marbles" data-model-name="Earthborn Marbles Claypaint 2.5l" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KGCcGuyM7FwcBAhr8UPUUf.jpg' alt="Marbles claypaint from Earthborn"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Earthborn Marbles Claypaint 2.5l</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><strong>Price: </strong>£60.00<br>Neither too yellow nor too white, this shade has a lovely warmth. The claypaint has a really distinctive matt finish – something that was definitely lacking in the colour-matched trade alternative. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="9a609c6b-6ac7-43fb-b29d-faf55160b976"> <a href="https://www.farrow-ball.com/paint/railings" data-model-name="Farrow & Ball No. 31 Railings Dead Flat 2.5l" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/v8b84dwCchmo7kDonFRS5X.jpg' alt="Railings paint from Farrow & Ball"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Farrow & Ball No. 31 Railings Dead Flat 2.5l</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><strong>Price: </strong>£79.00<br>Proving that black can feel soft and warm, this shade delivers drama in buckets. The Dead Flat finish is super durable and highly scrubbable – plus coverage is brilliant.</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="6b71da10-3404-469e-9b8a-253aca748996"> <a href="https://www.benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk/colour-gallery/colour/ChocolateVelvet/CSP-235/" data-model-name="Benjamin Moore Regal Select Interior FlatChocolate Velvet 3.79l" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BNVqBwGPrLFagGh3bN2ekj.jpg' alt="Chocolate velvet paint from Benjamin Moore"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Benjamin Moore Regal Select Interior FlatChocolate Velvet 3.79l</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><strong>Price:</strong> £86.00<br>A well-priced premium paint, this shade is perfect if you loved Pantone's Colour of the Year 2025, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse. The finish is nice and matt and easy-to-clean. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-overall-conclusion"><span>The overall conclusion</span></h3><p>While, in this instance, I didn't use a retail paint, I have tried to save by using the lowest cost white paint I could find in the past – and paid the price. Had I looked into the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-kitchen-paint">best kitchen paint</a>, I wouldn't constantly be repainting patches around the space or trying to avoid looking at the patchy ceilings.</p><p>While I am happy with the finish of the trade paint, when it came to the ease of application, coverage and depth of colour, as well as texture, it definitely didn't stand up to the premium.</p><p>"Ultimately, opt for premium paints where unparalleled colour and finish are the priority," advises Helen Shaw. "Choose trade paints for time-sensitive projects and high-traffic areas where you require maximum durability and efficiency"</p><p>"Although budget paints offer immediate cost savings at the point of purchase, they are often formulated using inferior quality ingredients, including reduced pigment load,' adds Ian Masonbury. 'This means they usually require several coats for full coverage and deliver a substandard final finish that wears and scuffs more easily, often fading in sunlight. The requirement to repaint is much more likely when using a cheaper budget paint."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="H8dfHhjLb6UJdQewugSPoA" name="F&B-bedroom" alt="yellow bedroom painted in Farrow & Ball paint with a wicker hanging chair" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/H8dfHhjLb6UJdQewugSPoA.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The rich, pigmented nature of premium paints means better coverage and durability</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="which-is-the-most-eco-friendly-paint-2">Which is the most eco-friendly paint?</h2><p>As I was painting my daughter's bedroom, I was keen that the paint I was using wasn't full of nasties. It isn't only premium paints these days that are using low-VOC formulations, although you do want to check what your chosen paint contains and when it comes to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/oil-vs-water-based-paint">oil vs water-based paints</a>, water is definitely the better choice.</p><p>"Many premium brands now focus on natural or low-VOC formulations that improve indoor air quality and minimise wider environmental impact," explains Ian Masonbury. "Depending on the specific formulation, natural mineral paints present much lower levels of embodied carbon, while true limewash is scientifically proven to absorb CO₂ as its cures – a benefit only realised when the formulation and application are done correctly. When chosen carefully, using a higher-quality paint for the home can support sustainable goals, delivering long-term performance in tandem with luxury aesthetics."</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/paint/is-expensive-paint-better</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ There is a significant price gap between premium paints and retail equivalents – but is it worth paying the extra to get a better finish, or is there little difference? We asked the experts ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">pJXrHaBwG79bhXnk7tmXfT</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Kv7My3og39aNs5WbSP97JU-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sun, 12 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Paint]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Natasha Brinsmead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Kv7My3og39aNs5WbSP97JU-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[woman crouching down looking at paint samples on wall]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[woman crouching down looking at paint samples on wall]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Kv7My3og39aNs5WbSP97JU-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Heat pumps reduce indoor air pollution by 99% and boost health, report finds ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>UK homes are breathing cleaner air thanks to heat pumps, according to new research from the European Heat Pump Association.</p><p>The report finds that replacing a gas boiler or wood stove with an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pumps">air source heat pump</a> can slash harmful pollutants by up to 99%, dramatically reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses.</p><p>Experts warn that accelerating heat pump adoption could protect health, cut pollution costs, and make homes safer for millions of families.</p><h2 id="how-heat-pumps-improve-air-quality-in-homes-2">How heat pumps improve air quality in homes </h2><p>The EHPA study highlights two major pollutants from home heating: nitrogen oxides (NOx), which worsen lung and heart conditions, and tiny particles (PM2.5), which penetrate deep into the lungs and increase disease risk.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-the-cost-to-replace-a-gas-boiler-with-a-heat-pump">Replacing a gas boiler with a heat pump</a> can reduce NOx emissions by 75%, while switching from a wood burner can cut PM2.5 pollution by 99%.</p><p>Paul Kenny, director general of the EHPA, said: “Having a polluting heat source in your home harms you in the place you should be safest. Rolling out heat pumps faster, with a focus on supporting the poorest first, helps people’s wellbeing and sets them up for the future, which will inevitably be fossil-free.”</p><h2 id="health-and-household-benefits-2">Health and household benefits</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="wPUFgmX9jsvYmzjH4qoAVm" name="log burner ideas_Woodtec 8kW Double Sided Wood Burning Stove on log Store" alt="double sided log burner in living room with dining room other side" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wPUFgmX9jsvYmzjH4qoAVm.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The government earlier this year </em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/government-caves-in-as-wood-burning-stoves-allowed-in-future-homes-standard-despite-health-warnings"><em>allowed wood burners into the Future Homes Standard</em></a><em>, despite the associated health risk</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Charlton & Jenrick)</span></figcaption></figure><p>In the UK, around 23 million homes use gas boilers and nearly 2 million households have wood-burning stoves, which are major sources of indoor air pollution.</p><p>Particulate matter and nitrogen oxides from these heating sources contribute to asthma, lung disease, and other health problems.</p><p>Experts say widespread adoption of heat pumps could significantly reduce these risks and ease the strain on the NHS. Cleaner heating could also help families avoid costs linked to air pollution-related health issues.</p><h2 id="boosting-heat-pump-adoption-in-the-uk-could-save-lives-2">Boosting heat pump adoption in the UK could save lives</h2><p>Uptake of heat pumps remains slow. In 2024, fewer than 100,000 units were installed, compared to 1.5 million new gas boilers, highlighting a large gap.</p><p>Dr. Iain Staffell, energy systems researcher at Imperial College London, commented: “<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-choose-heat-pumps">Heat pumps </a>offer a triple win for UK households - they reduce harmful emissions, lower long-term energy costs, and make homes healthier. But adoption will only rise if the government improves incentives and ensures <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pump-installation">installation </a>is affordable and straightforward.”</p><p>Experts recommend expanding <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pump-grants">air source heat pump grants</a>, adjusting energy levies, and mandating heat pumps in new builds to accelerate uptake, protect health, and reduce pollution in homes across the country.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/heat-pump/heat-pumps-reduce-indoor-air-pollution-by-99-percent-and-boost-health-report-finds</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Replacing gas boilers or wood stoves with heat pumps could protect health and reduce harmful emissions in households ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">mV7MdRce9P2FBfRZ56wdQV</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LefTvZktPR3cAEhRY4ZHGC-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sun, 12 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Heat Pump]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LefTvZktPR3cAEhRY4ZHGC-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Maxshot/Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Modern heat pump system installed on the exterior of a building with plants and flowers.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Modern heat pump system installed on the exterior of a building with plants and flowers.]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LefTvZktPR3cAEhRY4ZHGC-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ These designer-approved small living room lighting ideas will instantly make your space feel bigger and brighter ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Choosing the right lighting for a small living room is key to making the most of those compact proportions, turning them into an asset rather than a limitation.</p><p>Clever lighting sets the tone and defines the atmosphere in your home, all while ensuring a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/small-living-room-ideas">small living room</a> feels thoughtful and considered. At one end of the scale, statement pendants make a bold impact; at the other, subtle wall fittings save precious floor space. So where do you begin when planning your lighting in a bijou living room space?</p><p>We’ve gathered expert advice from designers and lighting specialists to show you how to create lighting schemes that balance practicality with personality, no matter how modest your living room’s footprint.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-use-a-combination-of-ambient-task-and-accent-lighting-in-a-small-living-room"><span>1. Use a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting in a small living room</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="Pqf6m3eMcHHk2bjBKY9Pmk" name="Small living room lighting" alt="A compact living room with a contemporary feel. The space features green-painted walls with built-in shelving, a sleek grey curtain framing a sash window, and a brown leather sofa paired with a cushioned bench-style seat. A cluster pendant light with three round globes hangs from the ceiling." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Pqf6m3eMcHHk2bjBKY9Pmk.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>This small living room lighting combines ambient, task and accent light sources</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: The Vawdrey House)</span></figcaption></figure><p>When you’re working with a compact living room, relying on a single ceiling light is one of the quickest ways to make the space feel flat and uninviting. Instead, Danielle Le Vaillant, head of photography & film at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.coxandcox.co.uk/lighting/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Cox & Cox</a>, says the answer lies in layering light: “You should try to combine ambient (ceiling lights), task (floor/table lamps), and accent (wall sconces, LED strips) to eliminate shadows and create depth.”</p><p>Before you get carried away with too many fittings in your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/lighting-design">lighting design</a>, Sophie Chapman, interior designer at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.thevawdreyhouse.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Vawdrey House</a>, warns against overwhelming a small room. Instead, she suggests: “Directional ceiling spots are a clever way to highlight artwork while saving floor space. Table and floor lamps instantly create ambience, especially if wired to 5-amp sockets for easy control. And if you’re not embarking on a full refurb, plug-in wall lights are a brilliant space-saving solution to add decorative or reading light without chasing cables into the walls.”</p><p>And if you want to go beyond the usual suspects, try getting creative with decorative light fittings. “These tend to offer more textures, highlights and lowlights than the traditional overhead light,” explains Molly Albin, stylist and photographer at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.festive-lights.com/about" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Festive Lights</a>. “Incorporating strip lights with candles and novelty lights are a great start. Decorative lighting such as twig lights create a soft, cosy base while the LED bulbs help to cast a subtle glow from different corners of the room.”</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-always-balance-style-with-practicality"><span>2. Always balance style with practicality</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="ngL69GwHKBVcKTgPHmBFmk" name="Small living room lighting" alt="A light-filled living room with a bold and elegant design. Two deep blue velvet armchairs flank a white-painted fireplace, above which hangs a colourful alphabet artwork. A dramatic gold starburst chandelier takes centre stage" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ngL69GwHKBVcKTgPHmBFmk.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Statement lighting works best when paired with functional fittings, like wall lights that brighten seating areas without overwhelming the room</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: The Vawdrey House)</span></figcaption></figure><p>When space is limited, lighting needs to work twice as hard, and while looking good is important, function should always come first.</p><p>“In a small space, it’s crucial to position lighting thoughtfully,” explains James Kendall, operations director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.keslighting.co.uk/about-us/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">KES Lighting & Home</a>. “Lamps and fixtures should support how the room is used, whether that’s placing a floor lamp beside your favourite reading chair or avoiding glare on the TV by opting for indirect lighting.</p><p>"While statement fixtures can be a beautiful addition, they should never come at the expense of function. We always advise striking a balance between style and practicality, ensuring the lighting not only looks great but also meets the needs of the space.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-use-wall-lights-to-free-up-valuable-living-room-floor-space"><span>3. Use wall lights to free up valuable living room floor space</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="W87Qfx6WmyGP2hsHMywgtP" name="small living room lighting ideas" alt="A bright, cosy sitting nook with a light grey sofa decorated with striped and floral cushions, placed against a cream wall. Two woven circular wall lights add texture above the sofa, while sheer floor-to-ceiling curtains frame tall glass doors." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/W87Qfx6WmyGP2hsHMywgtP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>These highly decorative wall lights add character and free up precious floor space, making them ideal for small living rooms</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Nedgis)</span></figcaption></figure><p>When space is at a premium, try to make every surface count. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/living-room-wall-lighting-ideas">Living room wall lighting</a> is a smart way to bring in light without taking up valuable surfaces.</p><p>“Avoid using too many floor or table lights, as they will add visual clutter to a room and occupy much needed floor space,” warns Sam Garbutt, lighting expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.ledandpower.co.uk/product-category/home-lighting/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">LED & Power. </a>“In contrast, wall lights, especially ones with decorative designs, can help to draw the eye out towards the edges of a room to expand the illusion of space.”</p><p>It’s not just about practicality either, as wall lights can double as design features. Danielle Le Vaillant explains: “Wall fixtures that can be painted to match the walls will create architectural interest and are a practical way to add light without looking over-fussy.”</p><h2 id="brighten-a-space-with-these-wall-lights-2">Brighten a space with these wall lights</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d7463d30-4bce-41f2-87c1-97031c3e7d91"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/amesbury-industrial-adjustable-plug-in-wall-light-1000254240" data-model-name="Amesbury Plug in Wall Light" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dJT3ejrSUgEUCWBt8asjMC.jpg' alt="Amesbury Industrial Adjustable Plug in Wall Light"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Industrial Look</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Amesbury Plug in Wall Light</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>You won't need an electrician for this light as it simply plugs in for ease of use. The head of the light can be adjusted so you can direct the light where it's needed most, making it perfect as a reading light next to a sofa or armchair. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d7990e89-be83-457d-a6c3-d90b806d4c95"> <a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/bay-lighting-eleanor-wall-light-antique-brass/p5117680" data-model-name="Bay Lighting Eleanor Wall Light" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:133.33%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cG98crpeqyTimNHSKpEjEb.webp' alt="Bay Lighting Eleanor Wall Light, Antique Brass"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Classic Style</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Bay Lighting Eleanor Wall Light</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>With its Antique Brass finish and vintage faux silk shade, this elegant wall light would suit a classic living room scheme. The wired design is operated by a simple toggle switch. Comes with a two-year guarantee. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="db488ae6-bb39-4fec-bdff-cf8e1b3fb53b"> <a href="https://www.next.co.uk/style/st706131/533802" data-model-name="Burford Picture Light" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:133.33%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gyfGzVyt4ua7knKRaaruPZ.jpg' alt="Brushed Nickel Burford 2 Light Picture Light"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Smart Addition</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Burford Picture Light</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A great way for injecting additional light into your small living room and for showing off your favourite artwork, this two-light design has a brushed nickel finish. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-play-with-scale-and-add-an-oversized-light"><span>4. Play with scale and add an oversized light</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="reVVw3QQDbkmeX8DFZPj9D" name="Small living room lighting ideas" alt="A warm, elegant living space featuring a plush beige armchair and matching footstool in a soft, textured fabric. Above hangs a striking dark glass chandelier with tiered details, suspended from a chain." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/reVVw3QQDbkmeX8DFZPj9D.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Even in a compact living room, a bold pendant can double as both sculpture and light source, bringing drama without dominating the space</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: lightsandlamps.com)</span></figcaption></figure><p>“A striking lighting feature can make the perfect focal point to expand the appearance of your living room,” says Sam Garbutt. “Place an eye-catching lighting feature in the centre of your ceiling to attract the eye upwards and distract away from the size of your living room. Decorative chandeliers are perfect for making a statement within a small living room, whilst offering an abundance of light and style to the space.”</p><p>When choosing a feature light for a compact room, look out for designs that balance impact with proportion. Ideally, you want something bold enough to draw attention, but not so oversized that it overwhelms the rest of the scheme and looks totally out of place.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-be-creative-with-height-and-positioning"><span>5. Be creative with height and positioning </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="f2pQxayAtcSxDAxvpmPdUo" name="Colour capping Benjamin Moore, Louisiana Hot Sauce CC-124, Firenze AF-225, Mrytle Beach 061, Queen Anne Pink HC-60" alt="Peach living room painted in Benjamin Moore's Louisiana Hot Sauce CC-124, Firenze AF-225, Mrytle Beach 061, Queen Anne Pink HC-60 with rust swivel chair and fireplace" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/f2pQxayAtcSxDAxvpmPdUo.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A semi-flush statement light paired with a sculptural table lamp shows how mixing heights adds depth and interest in a small living room</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The right lighting doesn’t just come down to the fittings you choose but where you position them. Varying the height of your lights can add depth, create interest and subtly expand the feel of the whole living room.</p><p>“In a small space, start with overhead lighting, before moving to wall and shelf lighting and then leading to lowlights or decorative lighting,” suggests Molly Albin. “The look can also be achieved by grouping lights together throughout the room. From a cluster of candles to stylish lanterns and lamps in the corners of the room, keeping the clutter down and adding bursts of lights throughout the room will instantly make it look larger and more stylish.”</p><p>Danielle Le Vaillant from Cox & Cox agrees: “Positioning lights at varying heights can add interest and expand the space. I usually like to opt for minimalist fixtures – slim, unobtrusive lighting that doesn’t look busy or crowd the space.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-incorporate-rechargeable-and-multifunctional-lighting"><span>6. Incorporate rechargeable and multifunctional lighting</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="LPNKFYNN5SRypvVBsBhF6o" name="small living room lighting ideas" alt="A warm, cosy living room corner with a built-in shelving nook painted in a deep terracotta red. The shelves are styled with books, framed art, photographs, vases, and plants, giving a personal, homely touch." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LPNKFYNN5SRypvVBsBhF6o.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Rechargeable or plug-in lamps are ideal for smaller spaces, making it easy to brighten dark corners or bookshelves without chasing cables</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Laura Ashley)</span></figcaption></figure><p>When space is scarce, flexibility is key. Rechargeable and multifunctional fittings allow you to adapt your lighting scheme as your needs change, without filling the room with extra fixtures or wires.</p><p>“Don’t overlook the new wave of rechargeable lamps,” says Sophie Chapman from The Vawdrey House. “They’re perfect for bookshelves or dark corners where wiring is tricky.”</p><p>Chris Bawden, founder at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.simplelighting.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Simple Lighting</a>, also emphasises the importance of multifunctional fittings: "In a compact living room, a single recessed track can replace several separate lamps, with the heads angled towards artwork, shelving or a reading nook. Multifunctional fittings, such as track lights with adjustable heads, keep the layout flexible without cluttering it with multiple fixtures.”</p><p>Together, these options provide maximum versatility, giving you light exactly where you need it, without adding unnecessary bulk.</p><h2 id="shop-rechargeable-lights-2">Shop rechargeable lights </h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d8ed14c5-ecd7-43c2-8fbe-07fa1efa1adf"> <a href="https://www.pooky.com/collections/rechargeable-table-lamps/products/katherine-rechargeable-table-lamp?variant=47685166858445" data-model-name="Katherine Rechargeable Table Lamp" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LfvigpCHwGaRhc4tKQFWeZ.jpg' alt="Katherine Rechargeable Table Lamp"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Table Lamp</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Katherine Rechargeable Table Lamp</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Offering around 15 hours of charge, this elegant lamp also comes with a remote for ease of use. Add a shade of your choice to finish the look. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="9bcd6179-c3ce-4eeb-b11c-fdcac0e68be1"> <a href="https://www.next.co.uk/style/su588652/ar4122#ar4122" data-model-name="Brass Denver Rechargeable Wall Light" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LkmGeKtpMEDEQnYYiStahD.jpg' alt="A brass rechargeable wall light"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Wall Light</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Brass Denver Rechargeable Wall Light</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>With its brass-finish offering an on-trend look, this wall light doesn't require a plug socket and can be easily positioned where you need it most in your living room. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="c0021dbb-f47f-4bf2-8edc-a59c80d8f1d7"> <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/hestia-glass-shade-rechargeable-colour-changing-led-touch-table-lamp-1000249394?defaultSkuId=30957315" data-model-name="Hestia Colour Changing Lamp" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QgPs6AA9eKkfoRqun6Enxa.jpg' alt="Hestia Glass Shade Rechargeable Colour Changing Led Touch Table Lamp"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Slimline Design</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Hestia Colour Changing Lamp</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>After a four-hour charge period, this stylish glass shade lamp offers up to eight hours of light. Has a touch control so you can adjust the colour of the light. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-7-choose-lighting-with-the-right-colour-temperature"><span>7. Choose lighting with the right colour temperature</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="mqk9nHt5KDecfH8GLnY6AD" name="Small living room lighting ideas" alt="A cosy living room corner styled with warm, autumnal tones. A fluffy brown dog sits on a patterned rug in front of a wood-burning stove set into a white marble fireplace. On the mantelpiece are a round mirror with a bold beaded frame, candles, and vases of flowers." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mqk9nHt5KDecfH8GLnY6AD.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A warm-toned table lamp enhances the cosy feel of this small living room, showing how colour temperature shapes atmosphere</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Wayfair)</span></figcaption></figure><p>It’s not only the fixtures that matters, but the tone of your lights. The right <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/lighting-temperature">lighting temperature </a>has the power to make a modest living room feel airy or cocooning.</p><p>“Colour temperature can have a big impact on how a room is perceived,” explains Sam Garbutt, from LED & Power. “If you want to expand the appearance of space within your living room it’s best to choose a cool white light as this will brighten up the space. A bright living room creates a spacious and airy feel that can make the space feel much more expansive. Although, warm light offers a more cosy and intimate atmosphere, it has the potential to make a small room feel dark and cramped.”</p><p>The takeaway? Cooler tones will open up a smaller room, while warmer shades lean into cosiness, so it’s worth considering how you use the space most, and choosing bulbs that suit the mood you want to create.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-8-use-reflective-surfaces-to-amplify-the-light-in-a-small-living-room"><span>8. Use reflective surfaces to amplify the light in a small living room</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="SmRkYqnzqtLvycnXiWnSx9" name="Terrace House Living Room" alt="A soft-toned room with a natural oak feature wall, tan sofa, and woven leather chair. Pampas grass and ceramics rest on a round black coffee table with slim metal legs." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SmRkYqnzqtLvycnXiWnSx9.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Mirrors and reflective finishes are a simple way to amplify both daylight and artificial light</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Naturewall)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sometimes the smartest way to improve your lighting scheme is to think beyond the lights themselves.</p><p>“Before thinking about lighting, you first need to get creative and create an <em>illusion </em>that your room is larger than it is,” explains Molly Albin, stylist and photographer at Festive Lights. “Mirrors and reflective surfaces are a great way of doing this."</p><p>According to Molly, mirrors bounce both natural and artificial light around the room, making a compact living area feel brighter and more dynamic. She suggests placing a mirror opposite a window, behind a statement lamp or alongside a wall light to instantly maximise the glow.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-9-define-zones-in-a-small-living-room-with-lighting"><span>9. Define zones in a small living room with lighting </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="oop7aMWDMNb6Z6E8aZt2eW" name="Mood lighting for living room" alt="A bold, eclectic living space with deep navy walls, a white fireplace, and quirky pineapple-shaped wall sconces holding pink candles. A built-in nook with tufted pink seating and a fur throw sits opposite yellow armchairs, creating a vibrant mix of colours and textures." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oop7aMWDMNb6Z6E8aZt2eW.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A wall light transforms this built-in nook into a cosy reading corner, showing how lighting can carve out zones in a small living room</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: The Vawdrey House)</span></figcaption></figure><p>You don’t need a large, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/open-plan-living-room-ideas">open-plan living room</a> to create distinct zones. Clever lighting placement can define areas without relying on walls or bulky furniture. A single well-positioned lamp or pendant, for instance, can turn a quiet corner into a reading nook or highlight a seating area for entertaining.</p><p>“When first designing a smaller space, it’s best to assess what areas need task or ambient lighting, whether that’s a directional wall light, a sculptured pendant that casts beautiful shadows across the room, or a portable lamp that provides complete flexibility and allows you to move the light wherever necessary,” says Tom Raffield, Founder of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.tomraffield.com/pages/about-us" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Tom Raffield.</a></p><p>In the scheme pictured above, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.thevawdreyhouse.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Vawdrey House</a> has put this idea into practice beautifully. A simple wall light transforms the built-in nook into a cosy reading spot, distinct from the main seating area. By pairing this with decorative sconces above the fireplace, the room feels carefully zoned without the need for partitions or extra furniture.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-10-make-the-most-of-natural-light"><span>10. Make the most of natural light</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="UxEU3dYPuk8mi3M8DFYYDP" name="small living room lighting ideas" alt="A compact living room corner featuring a neutral L-shaped sofa piled with bold orange and teal cushions. A black adjustable wall-mounted lamp with a conical shade provides task lighting above. To the side, a slim white ladder leads up to a ceiling hatch, adding a quirky, functional detail to the space." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UxEU3dYPuk8mi3M8DFYYDP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A skylight brings daylight into this compact living room, showing how architectural solutions can brighten spaces that lack natural light</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: The Vawdrey House)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Artificial lighting can only do so much. Sometimes, you need a little natural light to make a space feel fresher and more inviting.</p><p>“<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/daylighting">Maximising natural light</a> is crucial in a small living room,” says Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.hillarys.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hillarys</a>. “One of my favourite ways to do this is to layer light-filtering blinds or voiles with heavier curtains. Voiles allow gentle daylight to fill the room and help diffuse harsh sunlight, creating a soft, inviting atmosphere.”</p><p>If your room lacks natural light altogether, for example in a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-convert-a-basement">basement conversion</a>, consider architectural solutions such as skylights or light wells to brighten things up. These additions may require a lot more planning but they can completely transform the atmosphere of a confined space.</p><p>Avoiding common <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/living-room-design-mistakes">living room design mistakes</a> is just as important as choosing the right lighting. From overcrowding your space with floor lamps to neglecting natural light, small adjustments can make a big difference to how your space feels.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/living-room/small-living-room-lighting-ideas</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ The size of your living room doesn’t have to limit your style – these clever lighting tricks will have big impact in a small space ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">JFokrQa867kd2PYCUdYP8A</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xQDbWv7gCQW9HyDBFXLF78-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Living Room]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Gabriella Dyson ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xQDbWv7gCQW9HyDBFXLF78-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Atkin & Thyme]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A stylish modern living room with warm, earthy tones. It features a burnt orange velvet sofa and matching armchair with black wooden frames. A round dark wood coffee table sits in the centre, decorated with ceramic vases and a bowl of fruit. To the side, a brass-textured table lamp with a neutral shade rests on a small side table.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A stylish modern living room with warm, earthy tones. It features a burnt orange velvet sofa and matching armchair with black wooden frames. A round dark wood coffee table sits in the centre, decorated with ceramic vases and a bowl of fruit. To the side, a brass-textured table lamp with a neutral shade rests on a small side table.]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xQDbWv7gCQW9HyDBFXLF78-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ 10 oak beam fireplace ideas you’ll want to steal for the ultimate cosy home upgrade this season ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Few will deny there’s a certain charm to oak beam fireplaces. Part practical, part decorative, the beam anchors the room in a way that feels both comforting and characterful. It doesn’t matter if you opt for the rustic heft of reclaimed timber or the pared-back simplicity of a slim, modern finish – these classic <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/fireplace-ideas">fireplace ideas</a> never seem to go out of style.</p><p>What makes oak so appealing is its ability to shape-shift with its setting. In a country cottage, it can lean into tradition, full of grain and weathered detail. In a newer build, it can be clean-lined and minimal, lending warmth without fuss.</p><p>But designing an oak beam fireplace isn’t just about picking the prettiest piece of wood and hoping for the best. Proportions matter, finishes make all the difference, and, crucially, so does safety. With expert insight and inspiring ideas, we’ll guide you through how to get it right so your fireplace becomes the inviting centrepiece it deserves to be.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-embrace-rustic-character-with-a-reclaimed-beam"><span>1. Embrace rustic character with a reclaimed beam</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="bLLGyTPGJHGrqnRrrrqPYK" name="Oak Beam Fireplace Ideas" alt="A fireplace with a rustic wooden beam decorated with autumn garlands" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bLLGyTPGJHGrqnRrrrqPYK.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Styling with simple accents – such as autumn garlands and warm candlelight – highlights this beam’s natural character</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Lights4Fun)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A weathered, oversized beam is one of the easiest ways to bring depth and authenticity to your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/get-cosy-with-these-open-fireplace-ideas-this-winter">open fireplace ideas</a>. In this example from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.lights4fun.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Lights4Fun</a>, the rustic timber looks as though it has been in place for decades – its uneven edges and textured grain lending the room a lived-in, characterful feel. Paired with a black inset stove and a natural stone hearth, the result is both cosy and timeless.</p><p>And if you’re working with a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/log-burner-ideas">log burning stove</a> rather than an open fire, the same principle applies. Phil Wood, UK managing director of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.contura.eu/en-gb" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Contura</a>, explains: “For those with a stove set into a fireplace, a reclaimed beam can be repurposed and used as a beam or stove surround, adding rustic charm and character and framing the area as the centrepiece of the room. The natural grain and texture of oak introduces an organic element that complements both traditional and contemporary interiors.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-lean-into-traditional-fireplace-design-for-timeless-appeal"><span>2. Lean into traditional fireplace design for timeless appeal</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="JSWdK3NxdRKk7xdrDsovQo" name="Oak Beam Fireplace Ideas" alt="A rustic exposed brick fireplace with a black cast-iron log burner beneath a solid oak mantel beam. A wicker basket of logs sits nearby, and a child’s red vintage-style toy car rests on the wooden herringbone floor, adding a playful, homely touch." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JSWdK3NxdRKk7xdrDsovQo.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Exposed brickwork and a simple oak beam give this stove setup a timeless, country-cottage feel</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Scotts Arms Stoves )</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sometimes the most effective designs are the simplest. A solid oak beam paired with exposed brickwork and a cast-iron stove is a classic combination that never goes out of style. The natural warmth of the timber offsets the rugged texture of the brick, while the stove completes the picture with a homely glow.</p><p>This kind of setup works especially well in period homes or country cottages, where keeping true to traditional details helps preserve the character of the property. Add in wicker log baskets, heritage flooring or vintage finds, and you’ll have a fireplace that feels beautifully rooted in tradition.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="5419afd1-a1c0-48f1-a658-09ce0f343b0a"> <a href="https://traditionalbeams.com/products/rustic-oak-beam-aged?variant=40980413939862&country=GB&currency=GBP?utm_source=google&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=traditionalbeams&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=22771426528&utm_content=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22798336786&gbraid=0AAAAADshgl01A176MZNwAWiBKLL9FXWum&gclid=CjwKCAjw_-3GBhAYEiwAjh9fUPh1gFGrzhOKrQ2ftcMi7zWGBzL_3xoNY7caN6CDzcig8WqCCCSufBoCAmcQAvD_BwE" data-model-name="Rustic Oak Beam " ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:75.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3wwcjxqt4Z4Lipw3tmVnuA.jpg' alt="Rustic Oak Beam *aged*"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <span class='featured__label horizontal__label'>Rustic appeal</span> <div class="featured__title">Rustic Oak Beam </div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This aged rustic oak beam features beautifully ‘distressed’ edges and a textured surface. It’s supplied with fixings and is designed for easy installation on brick, stone or stud walls.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-choose-a-pale-sanded-oak-beam-for-a-softer-finish"><span>3. Choose a pale, sanded oak beam for a softer finish</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="8sRfpvDhwXYcbW3xxDzJGo" name="Oak Beam Fireplace Ideas" alt="A contemporary fireplace featuring a cylindrical black log burner on a pedestal base, framed by a thick oak beam mantel. Above, a simple framed artwork of a feather leans against the wall, creating a natural, understated look in the room." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8sRfpvDhwXYcbW3xxDzJGo.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A pale, sanded finish softens the impact of a chunky beam</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Direct Stoves)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Not all oak beams need to be dark or heavily textured. A pale, sanded beam can lend a lighter touch to the fireplace, giving it a relaxed, understated feel. In this scheme by <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.directstoves.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Direct Stoves</a>, the beam’s soft, natural tones balance the sharp lines of the modern stove below.</p><p>Choosing a lighter finish is also a clever way to stop a chunky beam from overpowering the room. It works particularly well against neutral walls, where the subtle grain of the oak can stand out without dominating the space.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-treat-and-seal-an-oak-beam-to-keep-it-stylish-and-compliant"><span>4. Treat and seal an oak beam to keep it stylish and compliant </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="u56MxPwxwrGZKs5MSNNMmU" name="Log Burner hearth" alt="A black log burner with bright flames is framed by a stone-effect fireplace. A chunky wooden mantel stretches across the opening, with stacked firewood placed neatly to the side. The hearth is made of dark slate tiles." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/u56MxPwxwrGZKs5MSNNMmU.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Sealing and staining oak adds depth of colour and protects the timber, ensuring it stays looking its best beside a busy stove</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Direct Stoves)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Oak beams never go out of style, but as they are a combustible material, you’ll need to think carefully about where and how they’re fitted. Not only will the right treatment keep your beam looking beautiful, it will also help ensure your fire complies with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/building-regulations-for-installing-a-log-burner">Building Regulations for log burners</a>.</p><p>Joanna Humphreys, fire and stove specialist at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.directstoves.com/?source=aw&sv1=affiliate&sv_campaign_id=103504&awc=6129_1758539966_930799207e3b45cabe9f0a6dfd7a2192&utm_source=awin&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_campaign=Future+Publishing." target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Direct Stoves</a>, explains: “Solid wood beams, such as oak, pine or walnut, are very appealing as they have a beautiful unique grain to them. However, as wood is a combustible material, you need to make sure you place it a safe distance away from the top of your stove – this should be specified in your stove manual and will be covered by <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/building-regulations">Building Regulations</a>, so make sure you adhere to it.”</p><p>“A non-combustible shield can be used to reduce distances in some cases, or composite beams or non-combustible alternatives are often used to achieve the look safely," adds Phil Wood, MD at Contura.</p><p>Once fitted correctly, regular maintenance will keep your beam at its best. A light sanding helps smooth away marks and prepare the surface, while applying a stain can completely transform its character. Follow your stain with a coat of beeswax or wood oil to nourish and seal the timber and protect it from stains and heat marks. Done regularly, this not only prolongs the life of the beam but also enhances its natural patina.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="8e4f3660-dfb3-4b53-8260-1992847c68a7"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/colron-refined-georgian-medium-oak-satin-not-antibacterial-danish-furniture-wood-oil-500ml/127888_BQ.prd?storeId=1049" data-model-name="Danish Furniture Wood Oil" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Jp9b8ZzKpGGQ3TzWxSNMze.jpg' alt="A bottle of Danish Oil in Georgian Medium oak"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <span class='featured__label horizontal__label'>Georgian medium oak</span> <div class="featured__title">Danish Furniture Wood Oil</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Danish Oil is easy to apply, giving oak a satin matt finish that enhances grain. With minimal prep, 2–3 coats protect, prime and create a consistent colour across beams and furniture.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-experiment-with-colour-and-faux-oak-beams-for-a-modern-twist"><span>5. Experiment with colour and faux oak beams for a modern twist</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="JqTZmwXLwGsSz487BZWk8E" name="Log Burner Hearth" alt="A compact log burner set inside a grey stone-clad fireplace with a dark timber mantel above. The hearth is finished with patterned decorative tiles, adding a colourful and rustic touch." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JqTZmwXLwGsSz487BZWk8E.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A mix of textures – from polished faux timber to eclectic tiles – makes this fireplace both stylish and full of character</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: StovesAreUs)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Oak beams don’t have to stick to the rustic look. A coloured or faux finish can give your fireplace a modern edge while still keeping the cosy warmth of timber. In this example, a dark-stained beam frames the stove and stands out against pale stonework for a bold, contemporary touch. Patterned tiles on the hearth add even more character, softening the contrast and giving the fireplace a playful, design-led twist.</p><p>Faux oak beams are particularly clever if you want the 'look' without the upkeep. Adam Oldfield, director at<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.stovesareus.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> StovesAreUs</a>, explains: “Faux oak beams are another great alternative. They’re easy to install, especially on stud walls, and don’t require the same maintenance as wood, while still providing an authentic look.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-mix-rustic-beams-with-modern-stoves"><span>6. Mix rustic beams with modern stoves</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="LxiMVTucZDFXjabskWT9QQ" name="brand-new-brick-slips" alt="exposed brick inglenook fireplace with log burning stove with slate hearth" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LxiMVTucZDFXjabskWT9QQ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The mix of exposed brickwork and timeworn timber gives this fireplace a rustic quality, while the sleek stove keeps the look feeling fresh and lived-in</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: The Brick Tile Company)</span></figcaption></figure><p>There’s something undeniably charming about a weathered oak beam against exposed brickwork. It feels as if it’s always been there. But pair that rustic backdrop with a sleek, contemporary stove and suddenly you’ve got a fireplace that feels both nostalgic and thoroughly up to date.</p><p>The beauty of this mix-and-match approach is how it celebrates contrasts: rough-hewn timber alongside clean steel and old-world character meeting modern comfort. It proves that you don’t need to commit to one style or the other to get beautiful results. Sometimes the most inviting living spaces are the ones that blend the best of both worlds.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-7-match-your-oak-beam-to-other-woodwork-for-a-cohesive-look"><span>7. Match your oak beam to other woodwork for a cohesive look</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="MzrVu749u6JQ7AHKXKFi5A" name="freestanding log burner_Renaissance At Home, Carron 5kW ECO 2022 Stove Ash Grey Enamel, £1055, 7931700" alt="grey freestanding log burner in brick fireplace with wooden mantel and cosy grey armchair in front of fire" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/MzrVu749u6JQ7AHKXKFi5A.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Repeating textures ties the fireplace into the architecture of the space, making it look like it’s always belonged</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Renaissance at Home)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If your living room already features exposed beams or timber details, echoing the same tone and texture on your fireplace beam is a simple way to pull the whole space together. In this room, the dark-stained oak mantel mirrors the ceiling beams above, creating a sense of balance that feels intentional and design-led.</p><p>Of course, repeating materials doesn’t mean you have to stick to one look. A pale, limed oak beam can brighten up a room with lots of natural light, while a deeper rustic finish will add warmth and weight. And if you’re <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/painting-ceiling-beams">painting ceiling beams</a> elsewhere in the space, choosing a mantel in a complementary shade is an easy way to keep everything feeling cohesive.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-8-keep-things-sleek-with-a-simple-floating-beam"><span>8. Keep things sleek with a simple floating beam</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="JQ4LST9yyY7Yfh3M8BvtQo" name="Oak Beam Fireplace Ideas" alt="A modern living room with a sleek black log burner set into a minimalist white wall. The fireplace is framed by cubby holes filled with neatly stacked firewood. A chunky oak beam mantel above holds a monochrome abstract artwork and a grey vase of dried flowers, adding rustic charm" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JQ4LST9yyY7Yfh3M8BvtQo.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em></em><a href="https://www.directstoves.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>Direct Stoves</em></a><em> demonstrates how a floating oak beam can double as display space</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Direct Stoves)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Floating beams are a smart way to give your fireplace a lighter, more streamlined finish, especially in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/modern-living-room-ideas">modern living rooms</a> where bulky <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/log-burner-surround-ideas">log burner surrounds</a> can feel overpowering.</p><p>Adam Oldfield explains: “A ‘floating’ oak beam, mounted without visible supports, creates a clean and contemporary look, while placing the beam directly above the fireplace opening feels more classic and grounded.”</p><p>It’s this balance of contemporary and traditional that makes floating beams so versatile. They can sit seamlessly in a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/minimalist-living-room-ideas">minimalist living room</a>, or be styled up with artwork or a mirror above the stove for a softer, more homely feel. And because they lack heavy brackets or corbels, they give the illusion of space – a clever trick if your fireplace is in a small or awkward <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/living-room-ideas-for-terraced-houses">terrace living room</a>.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-9-embrace-natural-edges-for-a-rustic-statement"><span>9. Embrace natural edges for a rustic statement</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="ynsAyJvmtEZRrojCYsiBHo" name="Oak Beam Fireplace Ideas" alt="A traditional-style fireplace with a polished black cast-iron stove set on a stone hearth. Above it, a chunky oak beam mantel has been left with its raw bark edge intact, adding rustic character. A copper kettle sits beside the fire, while stacked logs and a wooden floor enhance the cosy cottage feel." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ynsAyJvmtEZRrojCYsiBHo.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The irregular edge of the timber makes the beam a feature in its own right</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: StovesAreUs)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you love a natural, lived-in feel, choose an oak beam that shows off its raw edges and imperfections. The bark-edged design pictured here brings real charm and authenticity to the simple log burner, making it feel instantly more characterful.</p><p>These rustic finishes work particularly well when styled with copper or brass accents, which highlight the warmth of the wood grain above. You could also add depth by <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/can-you-tile-behind-a-log-burner">tiling behind a log burner</a>. Patterned tiles bring a playful touch, while a stone or slate hearth will keep the look earthy and traditional.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-10-pair-a-double-sided-log-burner-with-an-oak-beam-for-the-ultimate-focal-point"><span>10. Pair a double-sided log burner with an oak beam for the ultimate focal point</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="KQKe2xw2DuNGnAy9Dk7Zu9" name="Double-Sided Log Burner Ideas" alt="A modern living space featuring a double-sided log burner dividing the room" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KQKe2xw2DuNGnAy9Dk7Zu9.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The natural grain of the oak beam softens the clean lines of the double-sided stove</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mendip Stoves)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/double-sided-log-burner-ideas">double-sided log burner</a> is one of the most stylish ways to zone an open-plan room. In this stunning setup by <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.mendipstoves.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Mendip Stoves</a>, the fireplace connects the living area with the dining space, creating warmth and atmosphere on both sides.</p><p>This design proves that oak beams aren’t just for traditional fireplaces – when teamed with a modern <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/freestanding-log-burner-ideas">freestanding stove</a> and crisp plasterwork, they add a layer of texture that softens contemporary design and makes the space feel more 'lived-in'.</p><p>For the most cohesive effect, consider mirroring the look with a matching oak beam on both sides of the log burner. This creates balance across the two rooms and ensures the fireplace feels like a single, seamless feature rather than two separate openings.</p><p>Thinking beyond the living room? A fireplace or log burner could transform other areas of your home too. Explore whether a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/log-burner-in-a-kitchen">log burner works in a kitchen</a>, and discover <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-size-wood-burner-do-i-need">how to choose the right size stove</a> to keep your space perfectly warm.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/fireplace/oak-beam-fireplace-ideas</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ From rustic reclaimed timbers to sleek floating mantels, these oak beam fireplace ideas prove there’s a style to suit every type of home ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">s78LHt9npXUszU4F3wHPPJ</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/a4DoiUNGMyKUBXbaGx3dxB-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Fireplace]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Living Room]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Gabriella Dyson ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/a4DoiUNGMyKUBXbaGx3dxB-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Arada Stoves ]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A contemporary coastal style living room with a whitewashed fireplace and black log burning stove with a pale oak beam above it]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A contemporary coastal style living room with a whitewashed fireplace and black log burning stove with a pale oak beam above it]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/a4DoiUNGMyKUBXbaGx3dxB-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Is your Combi boiler pressure too low or too high? Find out what it should be, how to fix it and when you should call in a professional ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>A combi boiler’s pressure is crucial to maintaining a smooth operation of your heating and hot water system. If the pressure isn’t within the safe zone, then problems will arise.</p><p>Too high, and it will cause unnecessary strain on the system, leading to serious – and potentially expensive – issues such as leaks and system failure. If a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/combi-boilers">combi boiler's</a> pressure is too low, the problems will be less serious. However, it will lead to a shutdown as the water in the system will be unable to circulate.</p><p>Here, find out where the pressure sweet spot is, the reasons why it's not where it should be and how to fix it.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-ideal-pressure-for-a-combi-boiler"><span>The ideal pressure for a combi boiler</span></h3><p>To ensure a combination boiler operates efficiently and effectively, it must be set to the correct <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/boiler/boiler-problems">boiler pressure</a>. Combi boilers typically have a gauge on the front that runs from one to four bar. You will need to check the gauge to ensure the pressure is set correctly. <br><br>Patrick Garner, Gas Safe Engineer at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://heatable.co.uk/" target="_blank">Heatable</a>, shares what the ideal pressure should be: “The ideal pressure for a combi boiler is usually between one and one and a half bar when the system is cold.” However, this will rise when the heating is in operation: “As the heating comes on, the pressure will naturally rise, often up to around two bar.”</p><p>But Patrick warns that it shouldn’t go much higher, “If you’re seeing readings of two and a half bar, that’s edging towards the limit. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-boiler">Boilers</a> are designed to operate safely up to three bar, but if it’s creeping that high regularly, it suggests there’s an underlying issue.”</p><p>If the pressure drops below a certain point, this will also cause issues, as Patrick shares, “If pressure drops too low, say under half a bar, most boilers will cut out altogether. That usually points to a leak somewhere in the system, whether that’s pipework, radiators, or even a dripping pressure relief valve.”</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-reasons-combi-boiler-pressure-is-too-high"><span>Reasons combi boiler pressure is too high</span></h3><p>If the pressure in a combi boiler is too high, typically over three bar, there could be several reasons. “If pressure rises too much, it could be down to a faulty expansion vessel, or a filling loop that’s been left slightly open," says Patrick Garner. "An expansion vessel contains air and water, helping to maintain pressure in the system. A filling loop is commonly used to top up your boiler's water pressure.</p><p>Other reasons could be a faulty PRV (Pressure Relief Valve) or a dodgy heat exchanger. If this is the case, the parts may need to be replaced. Alternatively, it may be more cost-effective to check <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-much-is-a-new-boiler">how much a new boiler costs</a>.</p><p>Patrick says you don’t need to worry about small increases in pressure: “Some increase is normal as water heats and expands.” However, he adds, “Big jumps in pressure are worth investigating.”</p><p>If unsure, call out a plumber or heating engineer to check the problem. If your boiler is still under warranty, be sure to contact the manufacturer, as service should be provided at no additional cost.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-reasons-combi-boiler-pressure-is-too-low"><span>Reasons combi boiler pressure is too low</span></h3><p>The most common cause for low pressure is a leak somewhere in the system. This could be the pipework, a radiator or even the boiler itself. Typically, the leak will occur at a connecting point, i.e where the pipe connects to a TRV or radiator valve, so you may have <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/thermostatic-valve-problems">thermostatic valve problems</a>. Or, it could be where the valve connects to the radiator. It may just need tightening or replacing.</p><p>“Bleeding radiators can also lower pressure a little, as you’re letting out air and a bit of water," says Patrick Garner. If this is the case, you simply need to repressurise the system after <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-bleed-a-radiator">bleeding radiators</a>.</p><h2 id="try-these-to-help-keep-your-combi-boiler-and-heating-working-well-2">Try these to help keep your combi boiler and heating working well</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ae2dc8a0-26b9-4c9e-9893-ab4f89519a92"> <a href="https://www.diy.com/departments/straight-brushed-brass-radiator-valves-15mm/5060766128498_BQ.prd" data-model-name="Straight Brushed Brass Radiator Valves" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VNi7vQ2jRunSxtpv4EzMXS.jpg' alt="Straight Brushed Brass Radiator Valves "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Radiator Valves</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Straight Brushed Brass Radiator Valves</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>If you have leaking radiator valves, replace them with these smart brass valves to create a chic look around your home. Ideal for standard 15mm pipe work and comes with a 10-year guarantee. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="500414f5-7a41-4a59-a0f7-cd1cdf101bf4"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sky-bathroom-600x1593mm-Anthracite-Horizontal/dp/B0CZL4QVT1/" data-model-name="Anthracite Horizontal Double Panel Radiator" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LZAW2cam9o92jqeuvgkuab.jpg' alt="Sky Bathroom | 600x1593mm - Modern Anthracite Horizontal Double Panel Oval Column Radiator Central Heating Designer Radiator"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Designer Radiator</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Anthracite Horizontal Double Panel Radiator</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Made from 1.5mm high-quality low-carbon steel material, these double-panel designer radiators feature oval-shaped columns. Available in various sizes and three colours: White, Anthracite, and Black</p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="2d9c41f8-28a6-4235-802d-35f1ac7affb6"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Radiator-Bleed-Butterfly-Design-Venting/dp/B0CKC2JVCT" data-model-name="Radiator Bleed Key" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/iWqWwe7yAH5qL4DDYacZkh.jpg' alt="Radiator Bleed Key Solid Brass Clock Key Easy Grip Butterfly Design Venting Air Valve - Pack of 2"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Radiator Keys</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Radiator Bleed Key</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A pack of two basic brass butterfly-shaped radiator keys that will fit most UK radiators. Keep one to hand so you can use it when needed, and keep the other safe in case you need a spare at any time. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-repressurising-a-combi-boiler"><span>Repressurising a combi boiler</span></h3><p>How you <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-repressurise-a-boiler">repressurise a boiler</a> will depend on the boiler manufacturer. However, the principle is very similar and straightforward. “Most systems have a filling loop – a silver braided hose with taps at either end," says Patrick Garner. "You open the taps slowly and watch the gauge rise back to around one point two to one point five bar, then close them again.”</p><p>However, some combi boilers have standard copper pipe for a filling loop. To locate the taps on your combi boiler, refer to the manufacturer's manual for your boiler.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-to-release-pressure-if-it-s-too-high"><span>How to release pressure if it's too high</span></h3><p>If the pressure is too high, it typically indicates an issue with the boiler. However, you shouldn’t panic, says Patrick Garner: “All combis also have a safety valve that kicks in around three bar to prevent things from getting dangerous. If you’re ever over three bar, it’s best to switch off and call an engineer.”</p><p>However, there are a few things you can do to help relieve the pressure. “If the pressure’s too high, bleeding radiators can reduce it slightly, or you might use a drain-off valve," he adds.</p><p>A drain-off valve will release water when needed, Patrick says, “It’s typically a brass valve within the heating system or boiler, with the purpose to release some water (in over-pressurised circumstances) from the system.”</p><p>For example, my Baxi boiler has a drain-off valve on the underside, which can be opened with a bleed key to drain off water and relieve pressure. However, not all boilers are the same, so refer to your manufacturer's manual for more detailed information. If in doubt, always call in a professional for advice rather than attempting it yourself.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="what-happens-if-the-pressure-is-too-high-and-is-left-2">What happens if the pressure is too high and is left?</h2><p>A combi boiler with high pressure shouldn’t be left, as Patrick Garner, Gas Safe Engineer at Heatable points out: “If a boiler's pressure is too high (towards 3 bar and upward), it will cause boiler issues and it will cease to function in a very short time frame.”</p><p>Thankfully, modern combi boilers have measures in place. “The vast majority of all modern boilers made in the last 20 years have failsafes for this, and it isn’t as dangerous as it sounds," he explains. “First, there is a ‘pressure release valve’ (PRV) that will release water to combat high pressure.”</p><p>If the high pressure is not dealt with, Patrick says, “Leaks within normal pipework that should not produce water will likely occur. Shortly after this, a lock-out will occur and simply shut the boiler down. In reality, if this happens, the boiler will shut down very quickly.”</p><p>High pressure can lead to issues which can prove expensive, as Patricks shares. “Replacing a damaged PRV valve can be quite costly and possibly cost upwards of £600," he says. “Pipework could also be damaged during leaks, which could incur small to significant costs, excluding any water damage.”</p><h2 id="will-a-combi-boiler-explode-if-the-pressure-exceeds-its-safe-limit-2">Will a combi boiler explode if the pressure exceeds its safe limit?</h2><p>Don’t panic, a combi boiler will not explode as Patrick Garner shares, “A boiler ‘exploding’ is a bit of a moot point – people can understandably confuse this issue with gas – but overpressurisation is a water issue, and the boiler will likely shut down very quickly.</p><p>“However, if you notice your boiler's pressure rising or stuck on a particularly high bar, you should still proactively shut it down yourself as a precaution," he adds.</p><p>If your combi boiler is old and experiencing issues on a regular basis, you may need to consider replacing it with a new one.</p><p>If you do need a new boiler, you might also want to consider <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/boiler/moving-a-boiler">moving your boiler</a> to a different location if there would be a more suitable place for it in your home.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/combi-boiler-pressure</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Check that your combi boiler pressure is set in the green zone, and discover the reasons why it might not be ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">iNa9jp5fbhFPQ3jEbLnTpa</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WhtzaYnmeAYtBg8Fj2p3VE-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Steve Jenkins ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WhtzaYnmeAYtBg8Fj2p3VE-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[SteveDoesDIY]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Close up of Baxi 600 combi boiler showing water temperature dial and pressure gauge]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Close up of Baxi 600 combi boiler showing water temperature dial and pressure gauge]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WhtzaYnmeAYtBg8Fj2p3VE-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Water UK welcomes £500m investment boost amid reforms ‘the country needs as soon as possible’, but homeowners could face even higher bills ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Water UK has welcomed a decision by the Competition and Markets Authority to return more than £500 million in funding to five water companies.</p><p>The money will supposedly help improve water pipes, treatment works and other key infrastructure that had faced spending limits.</p><p>The change could mean better services for customers but may also lead to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/annual-water-bills-set-to-rise">higher water bills </a>in the future.</p><h2 id="this-process-has-been-necessary-to-secure-the-investment-our-economy-and-environment-need-2">'This process has been necessary to secure the investment our economy and environment need' </h2><p>A Water UK spokesperson said the CMA’s findings “restore more than half a billion pounds in funding” that had been previously restricted.</p><p>“If these decisions stand, the CMA has overturned the limits set by Ofwat for how much five companies can invest in their infrastructure,” the spokesperson explained.</p><p>They added that “this process has unfortunately been necessary to secure the investment our economy and environment need,” highlighting that water companies require stability to deliver on environmental commitments and system upgrades.</p><h2 id="homeowners-face-uncertainty-over-future-bills-2">Homeowners face uncertainty over future bills </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="T8qouozLmLTQ3bzsB8FrgL" name="dog washing station_petjethomeshower_13" alt="small dog being showered outside by male using shower head connected to tap and outlet on wall of brick house" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/T8qouozLmLTQ3bzsB8FrgL.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em></em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/water-companies-seek-to-raise-prices-by-up-to-91-from-2025"><em>Water companies aimed to raise water prices by 91% in 2025</em></a><em></em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Pet Jet Co.)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The decision could have a direct impact on households, depending on how companies recover the costs of new investment.</p><p>While Water UK has not addressed bill levels directly, the restored funding may eventually influence how much customers pay.</p><p>Consumer advocates say families will want reassurance that the investment will translate into visible improvements – such as fewer leaks, cleaner rivers and more reliable service – rather than higher household costs.</p><p>Anne Pardoe, Head of Policy at Citizens Advice, has already said: "Ramping up water bills, when people up and down the country are already rationing showers and cutting down on laundry, is going to stretch budgets beyond breaking point."</p><h2 id="the-country-needs-that-to-happen-as-soon-as-possible-2">'The country needs that to happen as soon as possible'</h2><p>Water UK also echoed the CMA’s call for change, saying the decision highlights the need for structural reform in how the sector is regulated.</p><p>“As the CMA acknowledges, the system requires urgent reform,” the spokesperson said. “The government has said it will abolish Ofwat and set up a new regulator. The country needs that to happen as soon as possible.”</p><p>The statement reflects growing industry frustration with a regulatory system seen as too slow to support modernisation. For homeowners, the next stage of reform could determine not just how much they pay for water, but how well their local networks can cope with growing environmental pressures.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/costs-savings/water-uk-welcomes-gbp500m-investment-boost-amid-reforms-the-country-needs-as-soon-as-possible-but-homeowners-could-face-even-higher-bills</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Water industry body hails CMA decision to restore vital funding and urges rapid reform as homeowners watch for changes to their bills ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">CF9a22EpJMtsJvNH5SLApU</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bmNGtwKzJM3RPs6CSgaCyK-1280-80.png" type="image/png" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Sat, 11 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Costs & Savings]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bmNGtwKzJM3RPs6CSgaCyK-1280-80.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Hot water coming from a tap]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Hot water coming from a tap]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bmNGtwKzJM3RPs6CSgaCyK-1280-80.png" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Are feature walls still a thing – or just totally passé these days? The designers speak out ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If you're old enough to recall the slew of quick-fix makeover shows that dominated our screens in the evenings during the late 1990s, you'll be no stranger to the world of feature walls. In fact, according to the celebrity interior designers at the time, no self-respecting <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/living-room-design">living room design</a> could be without one.</p><p>The most common way to achieve a feature wall was simply to paint it in a bold, often contrasting, hue in order to make it stand out from the rest of the room. No matter if the chosen colour suited the space or its natural light levels – or even if the homeowners particularly liked it. The main thing was, there was an accent wall, supposedly there to add character and personality.</p><p>All of that said, there was something to be said about creating visual interest in this way. We asked a range of top interior designers for their opinions and they came back with some brilliant tips on how to create an accent wall to be proud of.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-are-feature-walls-still-in-fashion"><span>Are feature walls still in fashion?</span></h3><p>I am currently in the process of redecorating my teenage daughter's bedroom. She's been busy researching <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/dark-bedroom-ideas">dark bedroom ideas</a> and wanted the chimney breast to be panelled and then painted a deep charcoal shade, keeping the rest of the walls a warm white. Just as I was getting started on the project, I hesitated. After all, 2025 has been dominated by the colour-drenching trend – basically the complete opposite of a feature wall. However, after chatting to the design experts, I decided we were probably ok to proceed, with care.</p><p>"Feature walls aren’t necessarily out of fashion, but the way they’re done has definitely evolved," explains Debbie Leigh, design manager at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.iliv.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">ILIV</a>. "Bold, single-colour walls or heavily patterned wallpapers can feel dated if overdone, but a carefully considered feature wall can still add personality to a room in a modern way."</p><p>"Feature walls aren’t out of fashion, but the trend has definitely shifted," picks up Marta Balazs, interior designer at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.embeeinteriors.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Embee Interiors</a>. "Today, it’s less about painting one wall a bold colour for contrast, and more about creating a balanced, intentional focal point that complements the room’s shape, layout and existing features."</p><p>"Whilst accent walls aren’t over, think about the impression you wish to make and then set about finishing your wall accordingly," advises interior designer Benji Lewis of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.benjilewisdesign.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Benji Lewis Design</a>. "Applying a coat of different coloured paint to a wall or covering a single wall with an ill- considered choice of wallpaper, just looks like you can’t be bothered."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.05%;"><img id="xqnTcGurgpDA3nWDs4MGwZ" name="Marta-Balzas" alt="living room wall with bespoke box shelving in neutral colours" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xqnTcGurgpDA3nWDs4MGwZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2401" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Using a selection of curated objects and full-height shelving is a practical, stylish way to create a feature wall</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Embee Interiors)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-do-you-create-a-modern-feature-wall"><span>How do you create a modern feature wall?</span></h3><p>So it seems that feature walls do still have a place in the world of stylish interiors, but just how do you go about creating one that looks fresh and offers the timeless feel that those after <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/modern-living-room-ideas">modern living room ideas</a> would feel comfortable with?</p><p>"Feature walls haven’t disappeared from interior design, but the trend has evolved," explains James Mellan-Matulewicz, creative director and interior designer at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.bobbibeck.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bobbi Beck</a>. 'The bold, single statement wall that dominated the 2000s and 2010s has been replaced by more creative and sophisticated ways to add character and personalisation to your home.'</p><p>"In most cases, I steer clients away from a single painted wall just for the sake of it," reveals Marta Balazs. "A feature wall only works when it’s intentional and integrated into the room’s design. Materials, textures, or tonal contrasts that work with the rest of the space tend to create a timeless, modern look that still feels fresh."</p><p>"If you’re set on creating a feature wall, think about using texture and subtle pattern rather than a strong, dominating colour," advises Debbie Leigh.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="iAKmGkSMtEt2RzGkoB2zne" name="ILIV" alt="green living room with wallpapered wall panelling and jewel green velvet sofa" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/iAKmGkSMtEt2RzGkoB2zne.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>There are so many more inventive ways to create a feature wall than with paint alone</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ILIV)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-do-you-turn-a-wall-into-a-feature"><span>How do you turn a wall into a feature?</span></h3><p>It seems that just painting a single wall a different colour and expecting eye-catching results just won't suffice these days, so exactly how do you turn a wall from bland to beautiful?</p><p>"Consider textures and materials like timber panelling, fluted detailing, decorative <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-plaster">types of plasterwork</a>, or even wallpaper with understated patterns," says Marta Balazs. "These will add depth without overwhelming the space."</p><p>"Linen wall coverings, woven panels, or textured paints can add interest – plus they have the added bonus of feeling timeless," adds Debbie Leigh. 'Another approach is to let fabrics inspire your wall by looking to a colour or pattern from your curtains, cushions, or an upholstered headboard to guide your choice."</p><p>"A single wall finished with a timelessly lovely panoramic paper (a wallpaper that depicts a scene) can add a great contemporary angle," suggests Benji Lewis. "Don’t overlook the colour you paint the other walls in your room – make your paper and paint choices blend as a whole."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="RRG2Xs6yRsi6A4k2yKLNNC" name="Bobbi-Beck-Agnew" alt="classic living room with wall mural depicting a woodland scene" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RRG2Xs6yRsi6A4k2yKLNNC.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Using wall murals is a fantastic way to inject charm in a timeless way</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Bobbi Beck)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="shop-feature-wall-coverings-2">Shop feature wall coverings</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="8696d4fb-fd92-4fc9-8151-61a015744ed6"> <a href="https://www.wayfair.co.uk/home-decor/pdp/art-for-the-home-stately-woodland-print-to-order-mural-arfh1595.html?" data-model-name="Art For the Home Stately Woodland Mural" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LkjsbmeBd2WyxzZ7w6mTMM.jpg' alt="wall mural depicting forest scene"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>The paper</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Art For the Home Stately Woodland Mural</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Designed to transport you away to the grounds of a stately home, this 400cm x 280cm paper mural is made-to-order and available in a range of muted colours, from this soft sage to subtle beige. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="8f47db85-9a9a-4429-a6a7-cb65715b6fb3"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CXQ4GWS3/ref=sspa_dk_detail_9?" data-model-name="Shaker Style Wall Panelling Kit" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sV5LuTvzvNWvvNpDAxNH9U.jpg' alt="pale blue wall panelling"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>The panelling</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Shaker Style Wall Panelling Kit</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Wall panelling kits are perfect for a quick transformation and this Shaker-style kit even includes the adhesive needed to stick it to the wall. With five 1000 x 100 x 9mm strips, you'll have a feature wall in no time at all. </p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="f579ef1f-1084-4fb5-92cd-e1610d8703af"> <a href="https://www.farrow-ball.com/paint/railings?" data-model-name="Farrow & Ball No. 31Railings" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ezBQedFQBgMAtAx8swZqC9.jpg' alt="Railings paint by Farrow & Ball"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>The paint</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Farrow & Ball No. 31Railings</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A beautifully warm soft black paint with deep blue undertones, this shade is perfect for a feature wall, particularly when combined with crisp white and warm metallic details such as shelving, mirrors and artwork. </p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-consider-wall-panelling-for-a-feature-wall"><span>Consider wall panelling for a feature wall</span></h3><p>It isn't just paint and wallpaper that can be used to create a feature wall – <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/wall-panelling-ideas">wall panelling ideas</a> make a brilliant alternative.</p><p>"I’d definitely explore options like adding a panelling effect to a wall in a room were I to embark on an accent wall," says Benji Lewis. "Just apply strips of MDF to your wall to create the impression of it being panelled and then paint onto that, either in the same colour as all the walls, allowing the panelled effect to be your accent, or paint the panelled wall in a contrasting colour."</p><p>"There is a strong emphasis on texture and natural materials within interiors right now," adds James Mellan-Matulewicz. "Wood panelling, for example, is increasingly popular, offering a warm, homely look. Simple tongue-and-groove or Shaker-style panelling can adapt to different interior trends just by changing the paint colour or finish. When combined with paint or wallpaper above, panelling helps tie a space together, giving a room a more structured and cohesive feel."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="ZDfbmBeUN7CjEbbiMTduiP" name="Furniture-and-Choice" alt="black and white living room with black slatted wall panelling" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZDfbmBeUN7CjEbbiMTduiP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Using wall panelling is a modern way to create a feature wall </em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Furniture & Choice)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="how-to-choose-the-right-wall-to-highlight-2">How to choose the right wall to highlight?</h2><p>One of the secrets to success when it comes to feature walls is choosing the right wall for the job.</p><p>"Rather than using the largest wall in the room by default, choose a wall that naturally draws the eye, for example, behind a bed, a fireplace, or a seating area," advises Debbie Leigh.</p><p>"It’s really important to consider the full room, its proportions, natural light, and architectural elements, before deciding on a feature wall," picks up Marta Balazs. "A wall becomes a feature for a reason: it should emphasise something that’s already a focal point, such as a fireplace, shelving, or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/built-in-storage-ideas">built-in storage</a>, rather than trying to create drama where none exists."</p><h2 id="can-you-create-a-feature-from-more-than-one-wall-2">Can you create a feature from more than one wall?</h2><p>It is important to note that, in some cases, using more than a single wall to create dramatic <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/best-house-design-ideas">house design ideas</a> in a space can work better.</p><p>"Wrap-around murals are one of the most exciting trends in interior design, transforming rooms into immersive, atmospheric spaces," explains James Mellan-Matulewicz. "Unlike traditional feature walls, these murals extend across several walls – and sometimes the ceiling – creating a seamless effect that makes a room feel larger and more cohesive.</p><p>"The beauty of wrap-around murals lies in how they remove visual boundaries, uniting walls and corners in one continuous story," continues James. "With modern, made-to-measure printing, designs can be tailored perfectly to fit any space. The result is a room that feels unique, expressive, and effortlessly stunning. Designs inspired by nature, such as landscapes and botanicals, work well because they have a sense of calm and permanence. A mural that complements the room’s architecture and palette, instead of dominating it, will always feel relevant."</p><p>Loving the idea of of a wrap-around mural? Read up on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-wallpaper">how to wallpaper</a> to ensure you get a super smooth, perfect finish.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/home-improvements/are-feature-walls-out-of-fashion</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ There was a time when an accent wall was seen as super stylish and the only way to inject character into a space but 'things have evolved,' say the experts ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">zwDQgXGKgZZwukYbMyVbCA</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oNi73PFQdbKeNdAm8b3CWc-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Home Improvements]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Natasha Brinsmead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oNi73PFQdbKeNdAm8b3CWc-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Victory Colours]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[dark blue feature wall in modern living room with wall shelving]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[dark blue feature wall in modern living room with wall shelving]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oNi73PFQdbKeNdAm8b3CWc-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Avoid these underfloor heating mistakes or face expensive energy bills, and a cold home warns energy expert ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Although this heating type is a popular choice with homeowners, it's important to make sure you avoid underfloor heating mistakes. That's because, if you get it wrong, you could be removing your entire floor to rectify it.</p><p>Getting the installation wrong could result in disruption, mess and unnecessary expense, meanwhile running your underfloor heating incorrectly can lead to longer term costs and increased energy bills.</p><p>So, what are the main <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/underfloor-heating-guide">underfloor heating</a> mistakes relating to how you make the system work? Heating expert, David Hilton is here to help so that you can be confident that your underfloor heating won't cost you more than you anticipated.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-mistake-one-getting-your-flooring-layers-wrong"><span>Mistake one: getting your flooring layers wrong</span></h3><p>Both types of underfloor heating systems are buried in the floor when the floor is laid, whether you pick <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/electric-underfloor-heating">electric underfloor heating</a> or opt for a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-install-underfloor-heating">wet underfloor heating installation</a> instead.</p><p>The performance and efficacy of the heat will be affected by where it is placed in the fabric of the floor, meaning the deeper it is laid, the longer it will take for heat to get out.</p><p>But, as well as how well the screed is laid, the surface of the floor will also make a difference. The harder the flooring, the quicker heat will be released, because heat travels easiest to and from the point of highest density. Tiles will transmit heat very quickly for example, whereas <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/underfloor-heating-with-carpet">carpets over underfloor heating</a> will tend to insulate the floor.</p><p>Subsuquently, if the water (in a wet system) cannot release the heat to the room it will return to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-choose-heat-pumps">heat pump</a> and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/heat-pump-vs-gas-boiler">heat pump or boiler</a> will ramp down as it thinks that it has done its job. The result? You will have paid for the heat but not benefited from it, and will likely end up running it for longer and at a hotter temperature.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="nBJRDDbiEdyVTLZf6X3FJc" name="underfloor heating mistakes_floor" alt="underfloor heating pipes exposed in floor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nBJRDDbiEdyVTLZf6X3FJc.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>When installing underfloor heating such as this product from </em><a href="https://www.nu-heat.co.uk/" target="_blank"><em>Nu-Heat</em></a><em>, make sure all layers of your flooring system are correct</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Nu-Heat)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-mistake-two-setting-your-electric-ufh-controls-incorrectly"><span>Mistake two: setting your electric UFH controls incorrectly</span></h3><p>Electric underfloor heating is essentially a lot of high resistance wires that are installed in the floor. When electricity is run through the wires they heat up and the heat is delivered to the room. This continuous resistance means that an equal amount of heat is delivered across all the wires, and as such there may be areas of the floor that can overheat (if the sun is on that area), or underheat in colder areas towards the centre of the home.</p><p>It also means that every area of electric underfloor heating that is on will be drawing direct electricity. Consequently, the costs can ramp up very quickly if not properly managed and controlled.</p><p>To put it into perspective, lower power systems may use around 1kWh for every 8m2. So, if your home is 160m2 and all of your underfloor heating is on, then it will use around 20 units of electricity per hour. Electricity is around 26.35p per kWh, which equates to a running cost of around £5.27 per hour.</p><p>Therefore, although how much, or little, your heating is on will depend on you and how you run the heating in your home, clever design and a good understanding of the controls will help manage your costs and prevent you from overspending.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-mistake-three-failing-to-understand-how-long-wet-ufh-takes-to-warm-up"><span>Mistake three: failing to understand how long wet UFH takes to warm up</span></h3><p>Wet underfloor heating is a bit more complicated to install than electric underfloor heating, but it can produce a more even heat. For example, if some of the floor is in a bit of sunlight and therefore already warmer, then the water will not deliver as much heat to the slightly warmer area.</p><p>You can also control the flow temperature in wet underfloor heating which means that instead of having a higher flow temperature for a couple of hours at a time, you can have a lower temperature which keeps the floor slightly warm for the whole day.</p><p>However, this is a very slow reaction time and might not match the heat requirement of your home, as unlike <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/types-of-radiator">radiators</a>, you cannot simply turn wet underfloor heating up and down reactively, as the floor takes a long time to change temperature.</p><p>The reaction time of the underfloor heating must also be aligned with the control setup. Most heat pumps (and some boilers) use a system called weather compensation. This allows the flow temperature to modulate according to the outside air temperature. If it is cold outside the flow temperature will increase but on milder days the flow temperature will be a lot lower.</p><p>This means that it may be very cold for a few hours during the night so the heat pump will deliver hotter water to the underfloor heating. It may take a few hours for the floor to react, so by the time the floor is warm the sun may be coming up and inevitably the home could overheat that morning.</p><p>Add to this the fact the south side of the home may need less heat than the north side, some of the rooms may already be set to different temperatures and getting an even heat becomes tricky.</p><p>Setting up zones to try and manage different heat requirements in different spaces is one option, but it can also be complicated and doesn't always benefit you. Understanding <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-long-does-underfloor-heating-take-to-warm-up">how long underfloor heating takes to warm up</a> must therefore be part of your research when considering it for your home.</p><p>It's best to try and have as few controlled zones as possible as the whole system should ideally be on, but if you have an efficient home then making sure that the balance is set correctly is an art.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="tfejc8sH9DZZ7gz8nZX9pa" name="energy efficient home_GettyImages-1466732650" alt="smiling woman with long dark hair in braids touching vertical radiator and holding phone in hand" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/tfejc8sH9DZZ7gz8nZX9pa.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Expecting underfloor heating to heat in the same way as radiators is a common underfloor heating mistake that can lead to increased energy bills</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Westend 61/Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-mistake-four-not-getting-the-balance-right-between-ufh-and-radiators"><span>Mistake four: not getting the balance right between UFH and radiators</span></h3><p>Many heat pumps have a pump built into the heat pump and this can often be used to run the whole system if you have both radiators and underfloor heating. While this may seem like a positive, wet underfloor heating systems have pipes that are different lengths and potentially different diameters. These pipes introduce a lot of resistance to the central heating system and can therefore create problems with balancing.</p><p>The consequence? The radiators may be the path of least resistance, meaning that they take the heat first and the underfloor heating does not get warm, regardless of wether you've followed the advice in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-temperature-should-underfloor-heating-be-set-at">what temperature should underfloor heating be set at</a>.</p><p>The resistance in the radiators will then need to be increased and this then puts more strain on the heat pump components. It is therefore crucial to make sure that your underfloor heating is designed and commissioned as part of a whole heating system.</p><p>To avoid any further underfloor heating mistakes, make sure your system is set to function efficiently by following the advice in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-bleed-underfloor-heating">how to bleed underfloor heating</a>. And, before you choose your final flooring finish, read our guide to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/best-flooring-for-underfloor-heating">best flooring for underfloor heating</a>.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/heating/underfloor-heating-mistakes</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Run your underfloor heating wrong by falling foul of these underfloor heating mistakes, and you could make your bills, rather than the room temperature rise says energy expert, David Hilton ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">XjvaMMHywHuJkBgPDvg7Y</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bPbptpGoWxUVzfu4YLtrDi-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Heating]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ David Hilton ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bPbptpGoWxUVzfu4YLtrDi-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Craig Hastings/Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[mans hand adjusting thermostat with red graphic overlay over whole picture showing graphs going up and down]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[mans hand adjusting thermostat with red graphic overlay over whole picture showing graphs going up and down]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bPbptpGoWxUVzfu4YLtrDi-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ ‘We have future-proofed every part of our house’ – step inside this couple’s oak frame forever home that blends character with contemporary design ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The motives for those who choose to embark on the self-build route are many and varied and for Dawn and Graham Hillier, the practicalities of everyday life were the main factor.</p><p>The couple were living in a big old farmhouse in Monmouthshire that was cold, draughty, uneconomical to run and increasingly becoming a challenge, particularly for Dawn, who has MS.</p><p>"We decided we wanted somewhere that combined character with all the benefits of a new, modern house," says Dawn. "Initially we didn’t have strong views on the type of property we wanted, but as soon as I went to visit an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/oak-frame-homes-gallery">oak frame</a> show home, that was it – there was no going back."</p><p>And Graham agrees, saying, "We instantly decided to look for ways we could build a bespoke home that would meet our future needs."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-project-details"><span>Project details</span></h3><ul><li><strong>Location</strong> Ross-on-Wye</li><li><strong>House type</strong> Oak frame detached house</li><li><strong>House size</strong> 250sq m</li><li><strong>Project</strong> Self-build with oak frame from Oakwrights</li></ul><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="ijW5oX6szAnwJrHPgU5LTD" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_20_oakwrights_mark_watts A" alt="Exterior of the house and front garden" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ijW5oX6szAnwJrHPgU5LTD.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>Dawn and Graham chose brick stock in a mix of light and dark hues for a rustic feel</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="c2oJEBMMYHQE6vxRcn7sp8" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_23_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Birdseye view of the property and front garden" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/c2oJEBMMYHQE6vxRcn7sp8.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The property took 14 months to build</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="xvq6Rb4ssjwi8T3dTYDyAm" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_44_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Garden featuring a patio, flower beds, lounge chairs, and an outdoor table and chair set" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xvq6Rb4ssjwi8T3dTYDyAm.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The garden layout was designed by Dawn and Graham, and the hard landscaping was completed towards the end of the build</em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-finding-suitable-land"><span>Finding suitable land</span></h3><p>Despite wanting to stay in Wales, Dawn and Graham couldn’t <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/finding-a-plot">find a suitable plot</a> in their area, but also felt that their local planning authority were overly restrictive, so they widened their search and found a suitable semi-rural plot over the border in Herefordshire.</p><p>Although the land came with approved plans for a house, it wasn’t oak frame, so it would be back to the drawing board as far as planning was concerned.</p><p>"Consequently we approached <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.oakwrights.co.uk/" target="_blank">Oakwrights</a>, who were great to deal with," says Dawn. "They reassured us that although they have templates for houses, these could merely serve as a starting point for our design, and stressed to us that no two houses are the same."</p><p>Knowing they had the freedom to alter the plans allowed the couple to make changes that were fairly major, but also very considered, given they knew they were creating a home for life.</p><p>"The only restriction was our imagination and being aware of certain limitations," says Graham. "For example, the project architect had to point out that if we wanted the main living space much bigger than the norm, we couldn’t have a single span of oak, which made complete sense."</p><p>Other factors dictated the position of certain rooms in the house. Whereas a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/sunroom-ideas">sunroom</a> might normally be found at the rear of most houses, here the best views were at the front, so it was repositioned accordingly.</p><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="UbFMa5a2Yk9R3K3hbrLQEb" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_8_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Living room area" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UbFMa5a2Yk9R3K3hbrLQEb.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The living area opens directly onto the garden</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="LkKYTnZ4MTzkFi6TVx2k8Y" name="oak-frame-family-home-2313_7-Oakwrights-Mark-Watts" alt="living room in an oak frame house with two blue sofas either side of a log burner" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LkKYTnZ4MTzkFi6TVx2k8Y.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>A log burner adds a cosy feel to the main living space</em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-access-all-areas"><span>Access all areas</span></h3><p>For practical purposes, the plans were tweaked to ensure they were achieving the "open, light and airy" home the pair had set their hearts on.</p><p>High on the must-have list was the requirement for plenty of space when moving around the house, including good access to kitchen worktops and generous doorways, particularly for the bathrooms.</p><p>Also with future needs in mind, the pair incorporated a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/home-lifts">home lift</a> into the design, which came with its own considerations. "Initially I wanted the lift to be hidden behind closed doors, almost like a cupboard, but our daughters quite rightly pointed out that having a disability is nothing to be ashamed of, and as a result, the lift – we chose a stylish one – is on full view in the hallway," says Dawn.</p><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="bdxnkcMj5VPECtVFwFgrh" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_3_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Kitchen featuring a dining table, white cabinets, and a central island" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bdxnkcMj5VPECtVFwFgrh.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>In the spacious kitchen, Dawn designed the cabinetry with plentiful storage and ease of access in mind</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="PpPtapwfKcNASwq2T8m74X" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_6_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Kitchen connected to the hallway" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/PpPtapwfKcNASwq2T8m74X.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>"We felt this large, light and airy space warranted something dramatic, yet also rich and mellow," says Dawn. "We used </em><a href="https://www.farrow-ball.com/paint/green-smoke" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>Farrow and Ball's Green Smoke</em></a><em> on the staircase and it fits the bill perfectly"</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="7z3NJiNkqTysz3Fh3g82iU" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_5_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Garden room opens onto the patio through floor-to-ceiling windows" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7z3NJiNkqTysz3Fh3g82iU.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>Floor-to-ceiling face glazing showcases the oak-framed garden room on the front of the house</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="GgYZF9DTV4FVTbjPaQcEXL" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_12_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Bedroom with vaulted ceilings" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GgYZF9DTV4FVTbjPaQcEXL.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The vaulted ceilings provide the wow factor in the bedroom as well as creating an overall feeling of space</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="7qYdW73RSbZ3NKrnEtXw9L" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_13_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Bathroom with wooden beams and a freestanding bath" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7qYdW73RSbZ3NKrnEtXw9L.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>A simple colour scheme in the main bathroom emphasises the elegant styling</em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-eco-priorities"><span>Eco priorities </span></h3><p>Knowing they were moving from an old inefficient home to one that had infinite possibilities was a major motivation for the couple to make it an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/inspiring-eco-homes">eco-friendly house.</a></p><p>"It’s in our DNA to do the best we can, from a sustainability point of view," says Graham. "We didn’t go the whole hog and aim for Passivhaus standard, but we certainly wanted to go as far along that route as was possible within our budget. Aesthetics played a part, too – we didn’t want something that was totally efficient but unattractive to look at, so there had to be compromises.</p><p>"We were also keen to ensure the construction adhered to high levels of insulation and airtightness, which is precisely what Oakwrights achieve with their WrightWall panel system, which encases the frame," Graham continues.</p><p>The house’s other eco credentials include an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pumps">air source heat pump</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/underfloor-heating-guide">underfloor heating</a> on the ground floor, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/solar-panels">solar panels</a> with a back-up battery and an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/mvhr-the-beginners-guide">MVHR system</a>.</p><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="awLv9NtFQpF3qDsSXAScfa" name="solar-panels-on-oak-frame-house-2313_31-Oakwrights-Mark-Watts" alt="oak frame home with porch, sun room and solar panels on the roof" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/awLv9NtFQpF3qDsSXAScfa.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>An extensive array of solar panels were added to the main roof of the house</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="YJjn7JDSZ8vsKp4US8Xxva" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.20220111_143247" alt="Underfloor heating" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YJjn7JDSZ8vsKp4US8Xxva.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The house had underfloor heating installed on the ground floor</em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-surprise-discovery"><span>Surprise discovery </span></h3><p>While Oakwrights supplied and fitted the oak frame, together with the WrightWall and WrightRoof systems, the couple independently employed an excellent local builder, Gareth Bushnell, who they describe as "very high quality" and who acted as principal contractor on the build.</p><p>"We employed him initially to just build our garage but when he then told us he’d built his own home, we didn’t think twice about asking him to take the reins on this project," says Graham. "A big plus was the fact he had his own reliable team of tradesmen, including plumbers, carpenters, electricians and decorators, who proved equally meticulous."</p><p>For the duration of the build, the Hilliers stayed in rented accommodation a short drive away from the site, a benefit of which being that Graham could do daily site visits.</p><p>"We’re not experienced housebuilders, we’re more organised novices," he says, "but we were still very involved in the process. For example, we had to organise making sure the ground conditions were suitable for the crane and we were responsible for getting the scaffolding put up."</p><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="cg22XrvxLyJpsYm2zaQSgc" name="oak-frame-home-master-bedroom-2313_10-Oakwrights-Mark-Watts" alt="large bedroom in an oak frame home with oak beams on display" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cg22XrvxLyJpsYm2zaQSgc.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>The oak frame of the house is visible in the bedroom space</em></p></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="6VDQBxyZhbeqwKe9MRVFyC" name="oak-frame-family-home-bedroom-2313_65-Oakwrights-Mark-Watts" alt="bedroom in an oak frame home with a double bed and blue painted wood panelling behind the bed" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6VDQBxyZhbeqwKe9MRVFyC.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="slide-description"><em>Blue painted wood panelling injects additional warmth and texture to this room</em></p></div></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-achieving-the-dream-result"><span>Achieving the dream result</span></h3><p>Having lived in the house for over three years now, Dawn and Graham say there’s very little they would change, and one area they proclaim a particular success is the kitchen.</p><p>"All the houses we’ve ever moved into have had kitchens that weren’t to my taste, but which have been in perfectly good condition, so I could never justify getting rid of them," says Dawn. "Moving here has finally allowed me to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/designing-a-kitchen">design a kitchen</a> that is ideal for cooking and socialising – as well as being very ergonomic – and we love it."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="M6k7cYvQ6h7fMFKLCUVdDi" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_4_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Kitchen island with glass-style shaped hanging lighting" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/M6k7cYvQ6h7fMFKLCUVdDi.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The large island forms the hub of the kitchen space</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-build-decisions"><span>Best build decisions</span></h3><p>"Designing and building our new home from scratch gave us the opportunity to really think about what we might need in the years ahead to make this our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/lifetime-homes">lifetime home</a>," says Graham. "Installing a lift was a key part of future-proofing the house, which involved careful design of the stairs, hall and landing from the start. We don’t yet rely on the lift, but it has already come in handy!</p><p>"We’ve made sure the kitchen and bathrooms can accommodate a wheelchair if and when one is needed, with design features such as hide-and-slide oven doors and cantilever basins.</p><p>"We also opted for more kitchen drawers in the base units, as these are much easier to access than cupboards. Generally, we wanted a feeling of space and openness, and this lends itself to ease of access within and between the different rooms."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="vAASU6Y9LWv9HhwB5mHrDX" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_9_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Downstairs hallway with staircase to the right" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vAASU6Y9LWv9HhwB5mHrDX.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The stairs and hallway were carefully designed to allow for the installation of a lift</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-from-the-architect"><span>From the architect </span></h3><p>Architect Craig Alexander for Oakwrights says: "Achieving the right balance of privacy, flow, and efficient circulation was key to the brief, and designing the circulation in this home was a real pleasure as well as an important part of the overall vision.</p><p>"The platform lift was carefully integrated into the oak frame structure – Graham and Dawn selected an attractive model that enhances the interior rather than detracting from it.</p><p>"The first-floor landing serves as a gallery, using the oak frame to bridge the two wings of the house while bringing in extra light and creating a sense of openness. A fully vaulted ceiling and generous <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/how-to-choose-rooflights">rooflights</a> add further drama and joy.</p><p>"At the centre is a bespoke, crafted staircase – a striking focal point from which the rest of the home flows, and needless to say, the oak structure plays a vital role in shaping these tactile, characterful spaces."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="cSExao9pnHXsZKGWiY4gFF" name="HBR226.rp_hillier.2313_14_oakwrights_mark_watts" alt="Staircase leading to upstairs hallway" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cSExao9pnHXsZKGWiY4gFF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>The landing walkway was a later addition to the plans and is one of Graham's favourite features</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Mark Watts/Oakwrights)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Dawn concludes, "All in all, we’ve lavished money as well as love on this house but as it’s our forever home, it’s a decision we don’t regret."</p><p>For more inspiration, see how two owners transformed a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/house-tours/1930s-house-transformation-with-money-saving-features">1930s house into a bright and beautiful contemporary home</a>.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/house-tours/herefordshire-oak-frame-new-build</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Knowing this was going to be their lifetime home, Dawn and Graham Hillier put heart and soul into every aspect of their new-build project ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">fm3y9HF7CVLhuXrnzfkoKW</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NUudfAQ83LC87ArGJ8hKtB-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[House Tours]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Seán O'Connell ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NUudfAQ83LC87ArGJ8hKtB-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Mark Watts/Oakwrights]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Exterior of oak frame detached house ]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Exterior of oak frame detached house ]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NUudfAQ83LC87ArGJ8hKtB-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Jamie Laing opens up about renovation struggles with his wife, saying it nearly 'ended in divorce' ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Jamie Laing has given fans a glimpse inside the newly <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/renovating-a-house-complete-guide">renovated </a>London home he shares with wife Sophie Habboo, but admitted the process wasn’t without its challenges.</p><p>The former Strictly Come Dancing and Made in Chelsea star shared that their first renovation project together tested their patience, humour, and even their marriage.</p><p>After 14 months of design decisions, disagreements, and late-night stress, the couple can finally enjoy their dream home, and a sense of relief that they made it through together.</p><h2 id="building-their-first-home-together-2">Building their first home together </h2><div class="instagram-embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="6" style="width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DPBCeynjE5W/" target="_blank">A post shared by Jamie Laing (@jamielaing)</a></p><p>A photo posted by on </p></blockquote></div><p>Jamie and Sophie spent over a year transforming their London property into a stylish, modern space that reflects both of their personalities.</p><p>The Instagram reel posted by Jamie showcased the impressive “before and after” footage, revealing how the couple turned the dated house into an elegant home.</p><p>Highlights include an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/the-best-open-plan-kitchens">open-plan kitchen</a> and dining area with a large breakfast bar and a luxurious <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/ensuite-bathroom-ideas">en-suite bathroom</a> that quickly became a fan favourite.</p><h2 id="nearly-divorced-jamie-on-the-challenges-behind-the-project-2">'Nearly divorced' - Jamie on the challenges behind the project </h2><div class="instagram-embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="6" style="width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DPUJnOJjOrL/" target="_blank">A post shared by Jamie Laing (@jamielaing)</a></p><p>A photo posted by on </p></blockquote></div><p>In a lighthearted but honest caption, Jamie wrote: “My wife and I bought our first home and started renovating it… 14 months, 10,000 arguments and nearly divorced later, we’ve finally finished.”</p><p>The TV personality also joked, “10 points to Gryffindor for that transition,” and celebrated with a “victory dance” for surviving the experience together.</p><p>While the comment was made in jest, it reflected the common strain many couples face during large renovation projects – balancing <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/ways-to-renovate-on-a-budget">budgets</a>, design decisions, and timelines while maintaining harmony at home.</p><h2 id="fans-applaud-the-stunning-transformation-2">Fans applaud the stunning transformation </h2><p>Fans and celebrity friends were quick to praise the couple’s results and Jamie’s humour in sharing the journey. Stacey Dooley commented, “WOW!!” while Jess Wright called the finished home “stunning.”</p><p>Other followers focused on specific design features, with one writing, “Can we all take a moment for that shower you skipped past - absolutely stunning!” Another added: “En-suite shower is heaven!”</p><p>The overall reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with fans congratulating the couple not only for the home’s beauty but for enduring the challenges together.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/renovation/jamie-laing-opens-up-about-renovation-struggles-with-his-wife-saying-it-nearly-ended-in-divorce</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ The former Strictly star admits his dream home project with wife Sophie Habboo nearly tested their marriage to breaking point ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">fsXRHL8jnhAiWQucTfk4VG</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vKQN8Jt3PkhrLeMiTufDTn-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Renovation]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vKQN8Jt3PkhrLeMiTufDTn-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing attend the World Premiere of "A Minecraft Movie" at the Cineworld Leicester Square]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing attend the World Premiere of "A Minecraft Movie" at the Cineworld Leicester Square]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vKQN8Jt3PkhrLeMiTufDTn-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Kemi Badenoch promises to scrap what she calls a 'bad tax' if Tories win next election ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>At the 2025 Conservative Party Conference, Kemi Badenoch announced that the next Conservative government would abolish <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/news/stamp-duty">stamp duty</a> on primary residences.</p><p>The tax, which currently generates around £8.6 billion a year for the Treasury, would remain for second homes, corporate buyers, and non-UK residents.</p><p>Badenoch framed the move as a way to make homeownership more accessible, particularly for first-time buyers.</p><h2 id="badenoch-promises-to-remove-bad-tax-2">Badenoch promises to remove "bad tax"</h2><p>Badenoch positioned the policy as a step toward a fairer housing market, calling stamp duty a “bad tax” that impedes social mobility.</p><p>She argued that previous adjustments to thresholds had not gone far enough, and that fully removing the tax on primary residences could unlock allow more people to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/buying-a-house">buy a home</a>.</p><p>Speaking to a conference audience, she said the plan would help first-time buyers and young families, while reiterating that the revenue loss would be offset by £47 billion in planned spending cuts.</p><p>The announcement was delivered with clear political intent, intended to attract voter attention ahead of the next election.</p><h2 id="how-would-stamp-duty-work-if-the-plans-were-introduced-2">How would stamp duty work if the plans were introduced?</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="eFivudhZ3uU23XshSjaGzA" name="Rachel Reeves with builders - Planning & Infrastructure Bill" alt="Rachel Reeves with builders on a building plot" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eFivudhZ3uU23XshSjaGzA.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em></em><a href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/costs-savings/will-stamp-duty-be-abolished-rachel-reeves-property-tax-proposals-explained"><em>Rachel Reeves suggested abolishing stamp duty</em></a><em> in August for homes under £500,000</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The proposed abolition would apply only to primary residences. Second homes, company purchases, and properties bought by non-UK residents would still incur stamp duty.</p><p>Funding would come from government spending cuts in areas including welfare, foreign aid, and the civil service.</p><p>Supporters argue the change could stimulate market activity by removing one of the largest upfront costs for buyers.</p><p>However, the policy would mainly benefit buyers of mid- to higher-priced homes, as first-time buyers already benefit from existing exemptions on lower-cost properties.</p><h2 id="will-it-drive-activity-at-every-level-or-is-it-just-political-hot-air-2">Will it “drive activity at every level" or is it just "political hot air"?</h2><p>Industry experts offered a mixture of cautious optimism and skepticism. Many welcomed the potential to stimulate activity and improve market mobility, particularly in high-demand areas such as London.</p><p>Damian, founder of Jefferies London, highlighted that removing stamp duty could “drive activity at every level, from first-time buyers to high-net-worth purchasers.”</p><p>Others, however, questioned the practicality of the plan. Marc von Grundherr, director of Benham and Reeves, described it as “political hot air” unlikely to be delivered given the Treasury revenue at stake.</p><p>Stuart Cheetham of MPowered Mortgages noted that while the policy could boost transactions, it might also push up prices, potentially offsetting benefits for first-time buyers.</p><p>Overall, reactions suggest that while the proposal would generate headlines, its long-term effect on the housing market remains uncertain.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/costs-savings/house-prices/kemi-badenoch-promises-to-scrap-stamp-duty-on-some-homes-if-tories-win-next-election</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Kemi Badenoch’s pledge to scrap stamp duty on primary homes could shake up the housing market, but industry reactions suggest a mix of excitement and caution ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">NpAG2g2yYXTokaTUzPry5C</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EFhhyaUy5Hvf8Dxq9DpcP5-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:15:57 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[House Prices]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Costs & Savings]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EFhhyaUy5Hvf8Dxq9DpcP5-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch delivers her speech on the final day of the Conservative Party conference at Manchester Central Convention Complex on October 08, 2025 in Manchester]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch delivers her speech on the final day of the Conservative Party conference at Manchester Central Convention Complex on October 08, 2025 in Manchester]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EFhhyaUy5Hvf8Dxq9DpcP5-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ How long do dehumidifiers last? An expert reveals the answer – plus 3 ways to make them run longer ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>How long do dehumidifiers last? If you own one of these moisture-busting machines, you've probably asked this question. Dehumidifiers can be expensive, so it's worth knowing when yours might reach the end and what you can do to make it run longer.</p><p>Just like any other appliance in your home, even the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-dehumidifier">best dehumidifiers</a> have an inevitable lifespan. However, there are steps you can take to help them run efficiently for longer – whether it’s using auto mode initially to prevent motor strain or thoroughly drying the unit after cleaning to prevent mould build-up.</p><p>Below, we explain how long dehumidifiers typically last (spoiler: there’s a difference between compressor and desiccant models) – plus expert advice on how to prevent them from burning out prematurely.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-long-do-dehumidifiers-last"><span>How long do dehumidifiers last?</span></h2><p>Provided you treat them with proper care and follow standard <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/dehumidifier-maintenance">dehumidifier maintenance</a> advice, dehumidifiers can last between five and 10 years, according to Katie Lilywhite, a dehumidifier expert at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://ao.com/athome/author/katie-lilywhite" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AO</a>.</p><p>However, it's worth bearing in mind that <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-a-desiccant-dehumidifier">desiccant dehumidifiers</a> can wear out faster than compressor models, as their absorbent material degrades over time. The lifespan also depends on the quality of your device, how you store it and how often you use it.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="gp9qSwhrNc8KFX7mFh4q4h" name="Getty640225920 - Dehumidifier" alt="Portable dehumidifier next to a plant and couch" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gp9qSwhrNc8KFX7mFh4q4h.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Dehumidifiers can last up to 10 years with the right care</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/mady70)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-to-extend-your-dehumidifier-s-lifespan"><span>How to extend your dehumidifier's lifespan </span></h3><p><strong>1. Go easy after summer</strong><br>If your dehumidifier has been sitting in a cupboard all summer, you'll want to go easy the first time you use it again. Rather than blasting it on maximum power, Katie Lilywhite recommends running it on gentle auto mode first. This will prevent straining the motor, causing wear and tear that could shorten its lifespan.</p><p>She adds, “You’ll also need to give it a little bit of TLC. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/cleaning-a-dehumidifier">Clean the dehumidifier's</a> filter, as dust can build up in storage, and similarly, wipe down the exterior to prevent any further dust from hindering your appliance. Now’s the perfect time to check your dehumidifier’s water tank – give it a once-over and make sure it’s dry and mould-free.”</p><p><strong>2. Keep the windows closed</strong><br>If you keep the windows open while using your dehumidifier, not only are you increasing the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/dehumidifier-running-costs">dehumidifier's running costs</a>, but you’re also forcing your unit to work much harder – which can eventually shorten its lifespan.</p><p>Katie explains that your dehumidifier will be constantly battling against fresh, damp air being blown in, which can have “detrimental effects” on the compressor, fan and motor (as well as your bank account!)</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="vgrrqQbfTd9VQQBAymUMWC" name="Getty2002584113 - dehumidifiers" alt="Dehumidifier placed on a windowsill next to a closed window" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vgrrqQbfTd9VQQBAymUMWC.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Never place your dehumidifier by an open window</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images/Kateryna Artsybasheva)</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>3. Store your dehumidifier correctly</strong><br>If you’re not planning to use your dehumidifier for a while, it’s important to store it properly to prevent any damage. Laura Bradbury, Head of eCommerce at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.vonhaus.com/vh_en/dehumidifier" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">VonHaus</a>, recommends emptying and drying the water tank, cleaning or replacing the filter, and wiping down the exterior before packing it away.</p><p>She adds, "Store it somewhere cool, dry and out of direct sunlight – a cupboard or utility room is ideal. Avoid garages or sheds, as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/damp">damp</a> conditions can damage the internal parts over time."</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-do-i-know-when-to-replace-my-dehumidifier"><span>How do I know when to replace my dehumidifier?</span></h3><p>Wondering whether it’s time to repair or replace your dehumidifier? Here are some signs it might be broken:</p><ol start="1"><li><strong>It fails to lower humidity</strong><br>If your unit runs continuously but fails to reduce humidity, this usually signals a problem with the compressor or refrigerant, explains Viktor Velikov, director at <a href="https://elserve.co.uk/" target="_blank">Elserve</a>. "The appliance may seem to operate normally, yet moisture is not being removed because refrigerant pressure has dropped or the compressor valves are worn," he says. "These faults cause the system to overwork while performance steadily falls, showing that failure is imminent."</li><li><strong>Reduced airflow or uneven cooling across the coils </strong><br>Reduced airflow or uneven cooling is another indication that your dehumidifier may be on its way out. If that's the case, Viktor recommends stopping operation, cleaning or replacing the filters, and having a professional inspect it. "Prompt maintenance restores efficiency and prevents the compressor from burning out – avoiding a complete breakdown and higher repair costs," he says.</li><li><strong>It makes unusual noises</strong><br>If your dehumidifier is making peculiar sounds – like rattling, humming or buzzing – it could be a sign that it’s about to expire or that there’s an issue that needs to be resolved.</li><li><strong>It has a musty smell</strong><br>A musty smell could be a sign of mould or mildew building up inside, which is why regular cleaning is essential.</li></ol> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="7423b19d-3f6e-4047-913c-f01cdf36b75f"> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Meaco-20L-Energy-Dehumidifier-Condensation/dp/B00HO963A6" data-model-name="Meaco 20L Dehumidifier" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/PBdqbEczWo9kxXRDjFF7aN.png' alt="Meaco 20L Dehumidifier"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <span class='featured__label horizontal__label'>Affordable to run</span> <div class="featured__title">Meaco 20L Dehumidifier</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Costing just 6p per hour to run (based on 28.62p/kWh), this energy-efficient dehumidifier is highly recommended by our testing team. It also comes with a free HEPA filter to purify your air.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-will-running-a-dehumidifier-all-day-damage-it"><span>Will running a dehumidifier all day damage it? </span></h3><p>As long as you keep your dehumidifier well-maintained, it won’t be damaged by running it for long periods, assures Laura Bradbury, Head of eCommerce at VonHaus.</p><p>However, she advises that eight to twelve hours per day is usually enough for most homes (depending on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/what-is-normal-humidity-in-a-house">humidity levels</a>), and that short bursts often work better than running it all day long.</p><p>As long as you take good care of your unit, there's no reason a high-quality model shouldn't last between five and ten years. By avoiding common <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/dehumidifier-mistakes">dehumidifier mistakes</a>, you can help it last even longer without needing early repairs or replacement.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/air-quality/dehumidifier/how-long-do-dehumidifiers-last</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Find out if your dehumidifier is lasting as long as it should, with expert-backed tips to extend its life ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">p4CRxNGetyXHUBRcRqq5u5</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fUUbacvueoex8beW8NMbqU-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Dehumidifier]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Air Quality]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ megan.milstead@futurenet.com (Megan Milstead) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Megan Milstead ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fUUbacvueoex8beW8NMbqU-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images/Cris Cantón]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Dehumidifier in a bedroom with a 50% humidity level]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Dehumidifier in a bedroom with a 50% humidity level]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fUUbacvueoex8beW8NMbqU-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ These log burner hearth ideas look so good they’ll outshine the flames ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The glow of a log burner is irresistible as the evenings turn colder, but it’s the hearth that truly anchors the space. More than a safety feature, it acts as the canvas that frames your fire – which is why it pays to get your log burner hearth ideas spot on.</p><p>The beauty of a hearth is how versatile it can be. Some homeowners love the timeless appeal of slate or granite, others prefer the decorative lift of patterned tiles, while glass and steel bring a sharp, modern edge. Whatever your style, this feature sets the tone for the whole room.</p><p>So, whether you’re renovating a cottage snug or reworking a sleek open-plan space, there are endless ways to make your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/log-burner-ideas">log burner ideas</a> work harder. With advice from stove specialists and designers – plus plenty of inspiring looks to borrow – here’s how to choose a base that feels intentional, stylish, and completely your own.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-choose-a-classic-slate-design"><span>1. Choose a classic slate design</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="TanZYyzWB7cWoAWNmcUqMT" name="Log Burner Hearth" alt="A log burner in an olive green finish stands on a dark slate hearth, with a built-in log store filled with cut wood." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TanZYyzWB7cWoAWNmcUqMT.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A slate hearth offers a durable, heat-resistant base that suits almost any stove design</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Arada Stoves )</span></figcaption></figure><p>There’s a reason slate remains a go-to for log burner hearths. Its adaptability means it can feel rustic and homely, or sharp and modern, depending on the finish you choose.</p><p>As Joanna Humphreys, fire and stove specialist at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.directstoves.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Direct Stoves</a>, explains: “Slate looks lovely with a solid fuel burning stove. You can choose to have it in a deep matte grey tone or polish it up for a jet-black finish. They're an ideal match for traditionally styled stoves but will match contemporary <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/freestanding-log-burner-ideas">freestanding stoves </a>as well."</p><p>Slate is also a practical choice, as Glen van Zeller, director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://scottsarmsstoves.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Scotts Arms Stoves</a>, explains: “Over the years we've found the best material is slate, as it can be oiled yearly.” According to Glen, this simple upkeep not only refreshes the colour and finish but also helps protect the surface of your hearth, ensuring it stays looking its best even with regular use.</p><p><strong>Top tip:</strong> Because slate is naturally porous, when <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-clean-a-slate-hearth">cleaning a slate hearth</a>, Glen van Zeller recommends sealing it to combat staining and preserve its appearance over time. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tableau-TSO-Slate-Oil/dp/B001CN1NJG?tag=georiot-trd-21&ascsubtag=homebuilding-gb-7318132012568097554-21&geniuslink=true" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">TABLEAU Slate Oil from Amazon UK</a> will do the job nicely – it's affordable, suitable for use on hearths, and highly reviewed by customers.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-opt-for-a-natural-stone-finishes-for-a-rustic-look"><span>2. Opt for a natural stone finishes for a rustic look</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="rf7yPw2XtDbrg8ySQQL4MT" name="Log Burner Hearth" alt="A deep green log burner with a glowing fire sits on a rustic stone hearth. The stove has a small log store beneath, filled with neatly stacked kindling." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rf7yPw2XtDbrg8ySQQL4MT.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Natural stone with irregular edges adds texture and an organic feel beneath the stove</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Arada Stoves )</span></figcaption></figure><p>For a hearth that feels grounded and organic, natural stone is a reliable and characterful choice. Rough-hewn or irregular slabs offer a rustic, hand-finished look, while polished cuts of granite or marble can lend a more refined, architectural edge to a room.</p><p>Adam Oldfield, director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.stovesareus.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">StovesAreUs</a>, explains why natural stone is such a popular choice: “Choosing a durable, non-combustible material is essential to protect the surrounding floors and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/building-regulations-for-installing-a-log-burner">comply with stove building regulations</a>. Popular choices include limestone, slate, granite, and marble. These materials offer both heat resistance and visual appeal, suiting everything from rustic to ultra-modern interiors.”</p><p>Phil Wood, UK MD of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.contura.eu/en-gb" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Contura</a>, highlights the appeal of different finishes: “Natural stones such as granite, slate and limestone are all aesthetically pleasing. Clients typically use the latter for rustic, cottage settings, or granite for a sleek, modern touch. Similarly, marble is a highly heat-resistant option, as well as being easy to clean. Despite being a little more on the expensive side, its unique veining and patterns means your hearth is bound to be a one-off.”</p><p>For those considering granite, Joanna Humphreys adds a practical tip: “Granite is the best hearth material for solid fuel-burning fires, such as a wood-burner. However, to withstand the heat from your stove, you need to get a granite hearth that has been ‘slabbed’. This means that it has been cut into pieces and mounted in concrete to allow for contraction – to give it space to expand as it heats up.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-embrace-a-bold-tiled-look"><span>3. Embrace a bold tiled look</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="s5YCoLCaJrCoHfVGL9evCT" name="Log Burner Hearth" alt="A bold pink log burner stands out in a colourful alcove, framed by walls painted in pastel pink, yellow, and blue. The hearth features a chequered tile design in blue and blush tones, complemented by a bright yellow-painted floorboard surround." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/s5YCoLCaJrCoHfVGL9evCT.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Chequerboard tiles in pastel shades turn this hearth into a colourful focal point</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Arada Stoves )</span></figcaption></figure><p>Who says a log burner has to feel traditional? Pairing a brightly painted stove with a tiled hearth in clashing colours creates an instant mood boost. Here, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.aradastoves.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Arada Stoves </a>has turned tradition on its head with a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/reviews/arada-hamlet-solution-5-bioethanol-stove">hot pink stove</a> and pastel chequerboard hearth. It's a striking statement look that <em>radiates</em> personality.</p><p>Adam Oldfield from StovesAreUs agrees that tiles offer huge creative scope: “Hearths don’t need to be plain – heat-resistant tiles offer huge design potential. Checkered or harlequin tiles in monochrome will complement a minimalist interior, while starry, geometric, or Moroccan-inspired patterns make a bolder statement.”</p><p>And if you’re not afraid of colour, let your hearth reflect that. A multicoloured design or a run of graphic patterned tiles can turn an otherwise plain log burner into an instant conversation starter.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-incorporate-built-in-log-storage"><span>4. Incorporate built-in log storage </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="sgcETd4Hn58sv7WZipgXLT" name="Log Burner Hearth" alt="A modern log burner in a warm terracotta colour sits against a wall with a sleek black fluted backdrop. The stove glows with a fire inside, set on a white raised hearth with a log store beneath, neatly stacked with cut firewood." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sgcETd4Hn58sv7WZipgXLT.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A raised hearth with cubby storage keeps logs neatly stacked and within easy reach</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Arada Stoves )</span></figcaption></figure><p>By building log storage into the hearth itself – whether through recessed cubbies or a raised stone platform – you create a feature that feels intentional while keeping fuel close to hand.</p><p>“Functional and stylish, integrated log storage around the hearth adds practicality while creating a cosy, contemporary look,” explains Phil Wood. “Use granite or stone hearths with built-in cubbies for logs to showcase the wood itself, serving to anchor the fireplace in the room whilst also adding warmth and texture.”</p><p>For day-to-day use, Phil Wood also advises a little care when handling fuel: “When moving logs, use a log basket rather than stacking directly on the hearth. This will prevent scratches on softer materials like slate.”</p><p>Keeping <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/log-store-ideas">log storage ideas</a> neat and considered not only protects your surfaces but also ensures the hearth remains a focal point rather than a cluttered corner.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="d6e42261-de4e-47a1-bcea-dd3209d0cf5a"> <a href="https://www.therange.co.uk/garden/sheds-and-garden-structures/garden-storage/neo-black-firewood-log-rack?aw_affid=103504&awc=5238_1758530316_a01d4caf846ab475190620bb8c8f7e85&utm_source=aw&utm_medium=Affiliates&utm_campaign=103504&utm_content=Editorial%20Content&utm_term=www.homebuilding.co.uk#2176231" data-model-name="Neo Black Firewood Log Rack" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nghbf5viMER4oMibyWeSbJ.jpg' alt="Neo Black Firewood Log Rack"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Neo Black Firewood Log Rack</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>These firewood racks are available in a variety of dimensions to fit in different sized spaces. They're made from a robust powder-coated steel and are designed to allow air to circulate around and prevent moisture.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-choose-exposed-brickwork"><span>5. Choose exposed brickwork </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="NBj8tXt7GeTMh2eETjHTmU" name="Log Burner hearth" alt="A black log burner with glowing flames sits on a raised brick hearth. The fireplace has a rustic red brick backdrop and a chunky dark wood mantel. A floor lamp, fire tools, and small tealight candles on the hearth add a homely touch." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NBj8tXt7GeTMh2eETjHTmU.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>This raised brick hearth doubles as both a sturdy base and a nod to classic fireplace design</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Direct Stoves)</span></figcaption></figure><p>For a hearth with instant warmth and authenticity, brick is hard to beat. Its natural texture and earthy tones give a log burner a classic, grounded look, whether you’re working with an original fireplace or creating a new surround. The effect feels especially at home in period properties, where brick complements traditional detailing and adds a rustic edge.</p><p>Phil Wood highlights why it’s a reliable option: “Brick is a traditional choice, known for its heat resistance. It can withstand high temperatures without cracking or degrading. It retains a cool outer surface even under intense heat, preventing damage to your stove.”</p><p>As this design by <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.directstoves.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Direct Stoves </a>shows, exposed brickwork also pairs beautifully with timber mantels, sleek black stoves and soft lighting.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-introduce-patterned-or-mosaic-tiles"><span>6. Introduce patterned or mosaic tiles </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="JqTZmwXLwGsSz487BZWk8E" name="Log Burner Hearth" alt="A compact log burner set inside a grey stone-clad fireplace with a dark timber mantel above. The hearth is finished with patterned decorative tiles, adding a colourful and rustic touch." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JqTZmwXLwGsSz487BZWk8E.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Mosaic-style tiles bring personality to the hearth, offering a contrast to the simple black stove</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: StovesAreUs)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Whether you choose a subtle mosaic in soft neutrals or a vibrant patchwork of colour, patterned tiles can transform the base of your stove into a highly decorative feature. The example here from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.stovesareus.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">StovesAreUs</a> shows how a mix of intricate designs in earthy shades adds character and depth to an otherwise pared-back scheme.</p><p>“For those looking to inject some personality into their fireplace, patterned tiles are a unique way of transforming the hearth into a statement feature," explains Phil Wood, "Instead of plain stone, opting for artisan cement, decorative clay or small mosaic patterns adds colour and vibrant visual textures. With geometric, playful or floral designs, the hearth transforms from a functional object into an eye-catching feature that reflects the personality of the homeowner.”</p><h2 id="get-the-look-2">Get the look</h2> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_horizontal" data-id="fa713da4-53ff-4081-a662-42f8baee33c0"> <a href="https://www.bakedtiles.co.uk/collections/fireplace-tiles/products/vintage-44-2-cmx44-2-cm" data-model-name="Vintage 44.2 Cm X 44.2 Cm" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:115.06%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/z7Yr63gey7nexVKs8VwTn.jpg' alt="Vintage 44.2 Cm X 44.2 Cm"></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Vintage 44.2 Cm X 44.2 Cm</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>The Vintage 44.2cm tile packs plenty of character, dividing into 16 unique patterns. Heat-resistant and slip-rated, it’s a smart choice for hearths, floors, or walls needing standout style.</p></p> </div> </div> </div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-7-contrast-the-surround-and-hearth"><span>7. Contrast the surround and hearth</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="VjgUPpy27jgeN3dyw55nkU" name="Log Burner hearth" alt="A modern black log burner with vivid flames is set against a terrazzo-tiled fireplace surround. A light wood mantel rests above, with an autumnal wreath of leaves, berries, and pinecones hanging on the wall above it." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VjgUPpy27jgeN3dyw55nkU.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Speckled terrazzo tiles create a striking contrast against a simple timber mantel</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: StovesAreUs)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Adam Oldfield from StovesAreUs suggests using contrast to frame your <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/fireplace-ideas">fireplace ideas</a>.</p><p>“Try using contrasting colours and materials to frame the hearth,” he says. “For example, pair a black granite hearth with brass or copper fenders, or contrast creamy marble with an ornate black surround.”</p><p>Playing with contrast is a simple but effective way to make your stove area feel considered. As shown in the design above, terrazzo is another strong option. Its speckled finish adds a playful, mid-century note to this oak beam fireplace while still being durable and heat-safe.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-8-embrace-a-flush-design"><span>8. Embrace a flush design</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2400px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:83.33%;"><img id="Mrtht8NZrE8ujFRULFWy8E" name="Log Burner Hearth" alt="A sleek, modern log burner set into a minimalist white surround. The fire glows brightly, with an olive-green footstool and a rustic vase with foliage adding natural warmth to the light-toned interior." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Mrtht8NZrE8ujFRULFWy8E.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2400" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Sleek and subtle, a flush hearth creates a contemporary look with minimal fuss</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: StovesAreUs)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A flush hearth creates a seamless line between the stove and the floor, and in glass the effect is even sharper as it protects while remaining almost invisible in the room. It’s a clever option for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/modern-living-room-ideas">modern living rooms</a> where you want the flames to be the main focus rather than the base beneath them.</p><p>“For a modern flush design, few materials achieve the look as well as glass. These are a stylish and contemporary choice that provides a safe surround for solid fuel stoves,” says Joanna Humphreys. She adds that unlike darker stone, glass doesn’t visually cut into the floor: “The benefit of glass is that, if you have a stone hearth, it’s almost guaranteed to be dark in colour, meaning you may ‘lose’ part of your floor. Glass hearths are also easy to clean.”</p><p>She also highlights steel as an alternative: “Like glass hearths, steel provides a modern choice to sit underneath your stove that can be shaped much easier than stone. Easy to clean, steel hearths are an ideal match for contemporary wood burning stoves, almost acting as an extension to the styling.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-9-use-reflective-or-polished-finishes"><span>9. Use reflective or polished finishes</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="iTW9Uuk4NHUAxejQASgKJ" name="freestanding log burner_Arada Bold Raincoat - White Set" alt="yellow log burning stove in white fireplace in room with white walls, on fireplace are yellow vase and yellow flowers, grey vase and black and white typography print saying less is more" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/iTW9Uuk4NHUAxejQASgKJ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>A smooth, high-shine hearth surface gives this setup a crisp, contemporary edge</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Arada Stoves)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A log burner is all about atmosphere, and the right finish beneath it can amplify that warmth tenfold. Polished stone or high-shine marble not only protects your floor, but it plays with the light, bouncing the flicker of the flames back into the room. The effect is luminous, almost theatrical, and can make even the smallest corner feel more expansive.</p><p>Phil Wood explains how these surfaces can shape the mood of a space: <em>“</em>Using materials or finishes that contrast with the surrounding walls or floor can make your hearth feel more intentional. For example, a dark slate hearth will stand out against a pale timber floor, while a lighter stone or marble hearth can brighten a darker room. Contrast can also be introduced through textures. Pairing a matte hearth with a glass stove door for example, will make a powerful statement and draw attention to the flames.”</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-10-keep-it-tonal"><span>10. Keep it tonal </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:120.00%;"><img id="9dfwiscifjgZCRNRvWoU9E" name="Log Burner Hearth" alt="A contemporary living space with a log burner inset into a large textured stone fireplace. Neutral-toned curved armchairs and stacks of books surround the hearth, while a large patterned artwork hangs above." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/9dfwiscifjgZCRNRvWoU9E.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2400" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Keeping the hearth and surround in the same shade creates a soft, unified backdrop for the stove</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Direct Stoves)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sometimes the most effective hearth design is the quietest. Choosing materials in the same palette as your walls or floors creates a tonal look where the stove appears built into the architecture. It’s a sophisticated approach that works beautifully in contemporary spaces, giving the fire a calm backdrop that lets the flames do the talking.</p><p>The effect is shown here in warm stone hues, where the hearth, surround and walls melt into one another. By limiting contrasts, the overall look feels soft, cohesive and carefully considered, which is ideal if you want your log burner to complement rather than dominate the room.</p><p><strong>Practical tip</strong>: Tonal designs work best when you choose durable finishes that won’t stain or mark easily, as paler surfaces can be less forgiving around an active stove.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><h2 id="how-much-clearance-should-you-leave-around-a-log-burner-2">How much clearance should you leave around a log burner?</h2><p>Clearances are essential for both safety and compliance with building regulations. Jon Butterworth, director at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.aradastoves.com/about-arada" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Arada Stoves</a>, advises:</p><p>“When fitting a stove, you must allow enough clearance from combustible materials like wood or plasterboard to meet safety rules and prevent fire risks. The exact distances depend on the stove model, so always check with your installer, but as a guide:</p><ul><li>Above the stove: 150mm (500mm if there’s a wooden mantel)</li><li>Sides: 150mm each side</li><li>Front: 255mm</li><li>Hearth: at least 840x840mm and 12mm thick</li><li>Behind the stove: varies by model – ask your fitter.</li></ul><p><strong>What if my stove is fitted into a fireplace recess?</strong></p><p>“For a stove in a fireplace recess, the above rules apply however there needs to be a ‘constructional hearth’ which projects at least 500mm forward of the front of the stove and 150mm at each side. This floor of the fireplace needs to be at least 250mm thick to meet building regulations.”</p><h2 id="how-do-you-maintain-a-log-burner-hearth-2">How do you maintain a log burner hearth?</h2><p>Like the stove itself, the hearth will benefit from regular upkeep to keep it safe and looking its best. Phil Wood, UK Managing Director of Contura, advises the following practical tips:</p><p>“Regular cleaning is very important – sweep or vacuum the hearth to remove ash, dust or splinters of wood. For stone or tile, a damp cloth and light soap solution work best, while harsh chemicals should be avoided as they may stain or damage the surface. Keeping the hearth free of clutter helps it remain a strong feature in a room and is also key to using your wood-burning stove safely.”</p><p>If you’re <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/installing-a-log-burner">installing a log burner</a>, it’s worth thinking about the finishing touches. Exploring <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/ideas/log-burner-surround-ideas">log burner surround ideas</a> can help you create a feature that feels intentional, while the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/buying-guides/best-stove-fan">best stove fan</a> will help you get the most out of your model by distributing heat more quickly. And don’t forget, knowing <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-to-clean-log-burner-glass">how to clean log burner glass</a> will keep your view of the flames crystal clear.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/rooms/fireplace/log-burner-hearth-ideas</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Whether you love rustic stone or sleek glass, our guide to log burner hearth ideas has expert tips and creative looks you’ll want to copy at home ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">m62kU4iBV73wB53WAZtRcR</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/F9oFMu7qQEKnrJTCtkiY7o-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Fireplace]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rooms]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Living Room]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Gabriella Dyson ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/F9oFMu7qQEKnrJTCtkiY7o-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Arada Stoves]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A pink log burner on a chequerboard tile hearth in a vibrant room painted in primary colours]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A pink log burner on a chequerboard tile hearth in a vibrant room painted in primary colours]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/F9oFMu7qQEKnrJTCtkiY7o-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[ Could digital IDs be beneficial or disastrous for the homebuying market? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The UK government is planning to introduce a digital ID scheme to simplify how people prove their identity.</p><p>While it could make the process of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/buying-a-house">buying a house</a> quicker, experts warn there are risks around security and accessibility.</p><p>Industry leaders are also exploring the idea of a “property passport” linked to digital IDs, which could hold verified information about a property’s history.</p><h2 id="what-are-digital-ids-2">What are digital IDs</h2><p>Digital IDs are electronic versions of documents like passports or driving licences that can be used to prove who you are online.</p><p>The government says the scheme will be mandatory for proving your right to work and will reduce the need for repeated identity checks.</p><p>According to GOV.UK, “digital ID will make it quicker and easier for people to verify their identity for vital government services,” though it has not explicitly mentioned homes in its public announcements.</p><p>HM Land Registry has trialled a digital identity system for conveyancers to verify a buyer’s identity digitally when registering property changes.</p><p>Maria Harris, chair of the Open Property Data Association, said: “A securely verified and reusable digital identity has the potential to increase consumer confidence, reduce fraud, and make processes like home buying safer.”</p><h2 id="how-digital-ids-could-help-home-buyers-2">How digital IDs could help home buyers </h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="YZvvrJAjirC7zxFtiCiXtK" name="GettyImages-109350535 (1).jpg" alt="A couple holding up a sign saying FOR SALE and SOLD" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YZvvrJAjirC7zxFtiCiXtK.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text"><em>Some experts claim digital IDs could speed up property transactions</em> </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Digital IDs could <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/how-long-does-it-take-to-buy-a-house">reduce the time it takes to buy a home</a> by reducing paperwork and speeding up identity checks across solicitors, mortgage lenders, and estate agents.</p><p>Beth Rudolf, director of delivery at The Conveyancing Association, said: “Digital ID could virtually eradicate seller impersonation fraud and, for those using digital anti-money laundering checks, reduce the time spent on enhanced due diligence from weeks to minutes.”</p><p>The idea of a property passport is also gaining traction. This would link a digital ID to verified data about a property, such as ownership history, renovations, and compliance with building regulations. It could help buyers make more informed decisions and provide a single source of verified information.</p><h2 id="the-risks-digital-ids-could-bring-2">The risks digital IDs could bring</h2><p>However, there are significant concerns regarind security amongst those in the industry.</p><p>Richard Howes, director at Paradigm Mortgage Services, warned: “If ID cards are stored on phones, they could become a prize target for criminals. The system must be designed to prevent identity theft and cyberattacks.”</p><p>Professor Alan Woodward has also cautioned that centralised databases could be vulnerable to hacking if not properly secured.</p><p>Inclusion is another challenge. Not everyone has access to smartphones or is confident using digital services. The government says inclusion is “at the heart of its design,” but experts emphasise that careful planning will be needed to make the system accessible to everyone.</p><p>Ultimately, digital IDs could make buying a home simpler and more transparent but the risks regarding safety need to be ironed considering these could be the largest purchase many people will make in their entire life.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/costs-savings/house-prices/could-digital-ids-be-beneficial-or-disastrous-for-the-homebuying-market</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Experts say digital IDs could make buying a home faster and safer, but data security and accessibility concerns remain unresolved ]]>
</description>
<guid isPermaLink="false">XmaXXqwgRX6ARyonS8KQcY</guid>
<enclosure url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NdfHkMTLZN9vmVKoPcmZqR-1280-80.jpg" type="image/jpeg" length="0"></enclosure>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[House Prices]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Costs & Savings]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ joseph.mullane@futurenet.com (Joseph Mullane) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joseph Mullane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NdfHkMTLZN9vmVKoPcmZqR-1280-80.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A conveyancer holding up a toy figurine house]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A conveyancer holding up a toy figurine house]]></media:title>
</media:content>
<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NdfHkMTLZN9vmVKoPcmZqR-1280-80.jpg" />
</item>
</channel>
</rss>

If you would like to create a banner that links to this page (i.e. this validation result), do the following:

Download the "valid RSS" banner.
Upload the image to your own server. (This step is important. Please do not link directly to the image on this server.)
Add this HTML to your page (change the image src attribute if necessary):

<a href="http://www.feedvalidator.org/check.cgi?url=https%3A//www.homebuilding.co.uk/feeds.xml"><img src="valid-rss-rogers.png" alt="[Valid RSS]" title="Validate my RSS feed" /></a>

If you would like to create a text link instead, here is the URL you can use:

http://www.feedvalidator.org/check.cgi?url=https%3A//www.homebuilding.co.uk/feeds.xml

Home · About · News · Docs · Terms