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BRITAIN’S BEST VALUE HOMES MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

NLY

2.25

DIY STORAGE CRAFT DECORATING FOOD GARDENING BEFORE & AFTER

REAL ROOM

TIME CHECK

T S O C LOW UYS B E L Y T S s t a e r t Cosy

R CLUTTER E BUST

PLUS DECLUTTER TOP TIPS

427 FAB FIXES HOW TO ADD WOW

Sabrina says

‘WE MADE A NEW KITCHEN FROM SCRATCH!’

STUNNING HOMES

SPLIT-LEVEL FLAT FULL OF GLAM TOUCHES COLOU C OLOURFUL RFUL & CREAT CREATIVE IVE 1960S 1960S SEMI SEMI CALM VIBES IN A NEUTRAL VICTORIAN TERRACE

FERN SHADE Page 15

Love it Inspiring homes and room makeovers

Buy it

Stylish musthave finds at high-street prices

Regulars 7 84

Do it

Weekend projects, DIY advice and styling tips

ED’S LETTER Come on in!

SUBSCRIBE and never miss an issue!

Love it 18

‘HOME IS A FULL-ON COLOUR BOMB!’ Naomi has filled her semi with bright ideas and creative flair

30

‘THIS PROPERTY FEELS LIKE HOME’ By finding her style Vikki has given her rental the personal touch

42

‘WE’VE DARED TO BE DECADENT’ Gorgeous colours and glam pieces create opulence in Lu’s flat

72

TRY A SPEEDY STYLE UPDATE Fun and simple ideas to make the most of your home

80

‘MY NEW LIVING ROOM IS MY HAVEN’ NHS midwife Vanessa’s living space got a well-deserved makeover, courtesy of Design Havens For Heroes

86

‘WE RELOCATED OUR KITCHEN’ Swapping rooms allowed Sabrina to create a bright space from scratch

92

‘IT’S BOUTIQUE ON A BUDGET!’ Lucy’s pick of low-cost pieces bring vintage style to her bathroom

Make it

Step-by-step craft ideas and upcycling how-tos

MODERN COUNTRY Weave in natural textures for a laid-back look

10

BEST IN STORE Our pick of the best shopping trends for the new season

13

HIGH-STREET NEWS The scoop on what’s hot right now

15

SERENE GREENS Create a calm oasis with forest-inspired hues

16

IBIZA FRESH Warm up a neutral backdrop with sun-baked clay tones

28

ECLECTIC BRIGHTS Go big on strong colours and lively patterns

38

RUSTIC NEUTRALSSoft tones and a neutral palette are easy on the eye

50

VINTAGE GLAMOUR Upgrade with gold accents and plush fabrics

4 | NOVEMBER 2021

Our fave recipes and top foodie buys

42

Lu’s Lu s kitchen is light, airy and the perfect shade of blue

PLUSH PIECES Page 50

Buy it 9

Cook it

7

Get cosy with warm neutrals

CONTENTS

Love it

30

Vikki’s homely touches add character

65

WALLPAPERS WITH WOW Japanese-inspired designs

91

NOSTALGIC BLUES Mix with white for old-school charm

97

ARTISAN COOL Choose turquoise pieces for stand-out appeal

122 10 UNDER £10 Bargain finds to give your home an autumnal glow

Do it

110

Warming autumnal recipes

41

STATEMENT VASES Give a plain ornament a dotty update

53

THE STYLE BOOK Draw on inspiration from urban lofts and converted factory floors to give your home an industrial edge

66

MAKE EVERY SPACE WORK HARDER Display, upcycling and storage ideas to make life easier

70

UPCYCLED CRATE Transform a wooden box into a rustic side table

90

WOOD-STYLE FLOORING A practical solution to cheat the look

96

REJIGGING THE LAYOUT Max out your space with a new design

100 FIND A SMART SOLUTION Genius ways to make everyday life easier

103 10-MINUTE DECLUTTER Speedy tidy-up solutions

104 DO IT YOURSELF Be handy at home 105 HOW TO BLEED YOUR RADIATORS

A quick fix to keep your home toasty

109 WINDOW SEAT Make a spot to sit

Make it

107 MAKE IT YOURSELF Inspiring

ideas and crafting must-haves

Cook it 99

PECAN TREACLE TART Enjoy a slice topped with creme fraiche

110 COMFORT DISHES Delicious recipes to banish the chill

117

66

Simple tips to revamp a bedroom

STASH AWAY Page 38

SUPERMARKET NEWS Pop these on the grocery list

Tweet us your comments at @styleathomemag – we’d love to hear what you think of your fave mag!

NOVEMBER 2021 | 5

EDITOR’S LETTER

Love it

Hi there!

ABOVE: Update your home with pared-back industrial style, p53 LEFT: Bring in modern opulence with fabrics in rich colours, p42 BELOW: Banish the chill with this month’s comfort dishes, p110

II’m a big fan of the change in sseasons. While I’m hard p pressed to pick my favourite – each one pulls at my heart sstrings in a different way – I d do love l the h opportunity autumn offers to spend more time indoors. It’s an invitation to restyle shelves, change up my gallery wall, and tinker with furniture positioning! The darker evenings mean my fireplace is lined with flickering candles, and I’ve always got a blanket (or two!) to hand for a cosy Netflix binge. This November marks a year since we’ve been in our home. Making it our own is a slow process, and the decorating wish list is still long. But while I may get a tad frustrated that we haven’t achieved more in the last 12 months, I shall remind myself (once again) there’s no rush. What matters most is I can’t imagine anywhere else feeling like home.

SUBSCRIBE!

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Heather Young, Editor

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NOVEMBER 2021 | 7

MODERN COUNTRY

Buy it

THIS MONTH’S

Love it!

We’re ready to dive into this sofa scene with a good book and a cuppa. The new textiles from George Home’s Other World collection create visual warmth with Berber-style fluffy finishes, slubby cotton, woven designs and tactile, ‘touch me’ textures.

For the boho alternative to a chandelier, create impact by hanging two over-sized lamp shades

3 of the best…

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING

NATURAL SHADES Woven lamp shades, £25 each; fringe and Berber cushions, £10 each; abstract pattern and Blue diamond thread cushions, £8 each; tie dye and cut thread diamond cushions, £7 each; linear Berber rug, £40; tufted Berber pouffe, £50; diamond knit throw, £20, all George Home

Espiral pendant shade, £39.50, Oliver Bonas

Karma conical shade, £69, Made

Bilu ombre rattan shade, £59, Lights & Lamps

NOVEMBER 2021 | 9

Best IN STORE Refresh your room schemes for the new season with our pick of the latest high-street trends

Ohio floor lamp, £69 Seagrass candle holder, £15

Abstract Blue cushion, £16

Zen round flat vase, £12

Dunelm Lynton White desk, £179

GLOBAL COASTAL

Style a calming look by pairing deep blues with relaxed neutrals

Skylar Mongolian faux fur ivory bean bag, £99 Carson corduroy snuggler, £699

10 | NOVEMBER 2021

Jonah denim mix Blue rug, from £79

BEST IN STORE

Buy it

Scalloped easy-fit shade, £25

Set of four Callie bowls, £22

Remi table lamp, £50

Evangeline floral rug, from £80

Next Home

BOHO BRIGHTS

Combine sunny shades and folksy florals for an uplifting scheme Set of four coasters in holder, £15

Floral cushion, £20

Ditsy print duvet set, from £30 Storage stool, £55

Framed art, £25

NOVEMBER 2021 | 11

Buy it

BEST IN STORE Wall hanging, £12

Elemental mug, £4

Woven file holder, £8

Clock, £20 Mixed succulents in square basket, £12

Matalan

Create a sophisticated home office with black accents and natural textures

Metal wire board, £16

Placemat, £4

Vase, £8

12 | NOVEMBER 2021

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

MONOCHROME

NEWS

Buy it

George giraffe stool, £50; Scandinavia book shelf, £40, both Habitat, available at Argos and Sainsbury’s

STYLE LIKE PALOMA Based on the style of her London townhouse, singer songwriter Paloma Faith’s debut homeware range is all about affordable maximalism. Think opulent luxe meets retro bohemia for bedding, wallpaper, cushions and fabric that are made for print clashing.

Glam chinoiserie meets a tiger or two, plush fringing and a little leopard print.

Cushions from £21; wallpapers, £35 a roll.

Molly canopy, £25

C lkiid Coolkidson the block

High-street

NEWS

Vintage Botanicals wallpaper, £35 a roll, Paloma Home

What’s new, what’s hot now… you heard it here first!

They’re everywhere!

WOBBLY FORMS

The designers at Habitat have created three captivating stories in their first collection for little ones, balancing fun with functionality. Into The Wild’s animal kingdom features gorgeously illustrated characters, the daydreamy Homespun world includes soft tones, rainbows and a cute canopy, while modern Scandi Pop will blend into a grown-up, open-plan space.

OFF BEAT

Rope lion storage basket, £10

Gunnar mirror, £55, Maisons du Monde

WE LOVE!

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING

CRAFTED CURVES

Hand-blown glass carafes, £34.99 each, H&M Home

WAV VY EDGE E

Ceramic bowl, b £29, Arket

FLUIID FORM MS

Tvingstru up rug, £129, Ikea

Unless you’ve been on an Instagram break for the last year, you’ll know dr flow rs are usurping fresh bouquets. Adding a gorgeous layer of texture, they’re e low maintenance and long lasting.

Bargain!

Two options of flo oral fans are available in store and onlin ne, from £8, George e Home

NOVEMBER 2021 | 13

SERENE GREENS

Buy it

DECO PALMS

Louis Green glass pendant lamp, £99.90, Beaumonde

FLOOR ENVY ABSTRACT ART Green linen vase poster, from £8.95, Desenio

HALF MOONS

Green tassel rug, £55, Graham and Green

SPLATTER EFFECT

Ariana speckled bowl, £35, Graham and Green

Trend spotting

FOREST GLADE

SERENE GREENS

Green ferns duvet cover set, from £10, George Home

Take a cue from nature with forest-inspired hues

MODERN MATERIALS

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

Dutchbone emerald marble side table, £139, Cuckooland

N

ow as the weather changes and we head back indoors, it’s easy to feel disconnected from nature.

Bring the outdoors into your interiors with shades of forest, fern and moss green in this most calming trend.

Reactive glaze ceramics, cosy fabrics and veined marble in earthy tones are perfect for adding depth and texture to your home.

Team with light wood for a Scandi feel or add metallic accents for a glam take on the look.

EXPOSED BULB

Marble table lamp, £24.99, H&M Home

COLOUR BLOCK

Balico velvet panelled cushion, £25, Made

TIMELESS DESIGN

Arkin velvet wooden frame accent chair in Moss Green, £249, Dunelm

OCTOBER 2021 | 15

The New Look

IBIZA FRESH Create a holiday hideout at home with rustic clay tones and inviting tactile textiles

1. Mix in a chunky profile Include weighty shapes to create this laid-back look for lounging. A rounded, marshmallowy accent chair or bean bag seat will invite you to kick your shoes off and curl up.

2. Go all out on texture

Create a perfect hangout spot by bringing in elements of comfort. Keep it casual with relaxed rattan baskets, woven dhurrie, plush wool rugs and cushions finished with tassels or fringing.

FEATURE MICHELA COLLING

3. Use stone surfaces

16 | NOVEMBER 2021

Although there’s no metallics or shiny finishes here to create a glamorous edge, get a cooler vibe with chic, matt sandstone, softly speckled terrazzo and moulded concrete accent pieces.

NEW LOOK

Buy it

NATURAL FINISH Lidded baskets, £12 for two, Primark

Fika three-seater sofa in Tan combination, £1,599; Scandi accent chair in Orange velvet, £499; Grizzly Snug chair in taupe, £399, all DFS

SUPER SOFTIE

Safi fringed Diamond rug, from £59.99, Carpetright

Nail the style

4. Inject warm accents

BALEARIC BLISS Pair warm shades with rustic finishes

This whitewashed base instantly creates a blissed out, calm space, but it needs warming up. Choose cushions, throws and rustic ceramics in dusted terracotta and honeyed beige colours.

ROUGH LUXE

Toto Glass candle jar, £20, Abigail Ahern at Freemans

LUSH ACCENT Faux floral in terracotta pot, £7, Habitat

DREAM WEAVE

Global stripe cushion, £15, Dunelm

STYLISH SILHOUETTE Nyboda table, £25, Ikea

TOTAL

£139

NOVEMBER 2021 | 17

‘Home is a fullIDEA TO STEAL

‘Get creative by applying wall stickers to the ceiling too’ PRETTY IN PINK

‘I enjoy bringing colour into our home’

COME ON IN!

ABOUT ME I’m Naomi Weetman, 31, a stay-at-home mum. I live here with my husband Luke, 32, a plumber, our son Otis, three, and baby daughter Nevaeh. We also have a cat Salem and dog Brynn.

MY HOME A semi-detached 1960s three-bedroom house in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, which we bought in 2010.

WHEN I MOVED IN I immediately started putting paint and colour on the walls, because everywhere was standard rental magnolia or white.

AND NOW It’s an eclectic, expressive and colourful home that’s totally unique – people often describe it as ‘a lot of fun’.

STYLE TIP There is more than one way to do something, so do your research and don’t rush into upcycling projects.

18 | NOVEMBER 2021

FRESH COAT

‘The kitchen area was painted grey which is my least favourite colour and I initially painted the walls emerald green, but over lockdown decided to paint the tiles, door and cabinets as well’

1960S SEMI

Love it

on COLOUR BOMB!’ Naomi brushed up her crafting skills and embraced her love of bright colours to drag a dated 1960s terraced home bang into the 21st century

M

y husband Luke already owned the house when I moved in,’ says Naomi.

‘He bought it in 2010 as he was keen to get on the property ladder, and then rented it out for a couple of years. As he is a plumber he’d already updated the bathroom and replaced the carpet and lino in the kitchen and bathroom.

We moved in two years later in 2012, after I had finished university. We had no spare money, but fortunately some mid-century pieces of furniture had been left behind by the previous owners that I was able to upcycle.

Tidying up

The house was built in the 1960s and was very dated. Despite some nice original features, such as skirting boards and architraves, I don’t think the decor had been changed for at least 40 years. There was a lot of blown vinyl wallpaper going on! In order to sell the house the previous owners had replaced the kitchen with Ikea units, but they didn’t tile it. There was also a loft extension which hadn’t been finished. In fact a flue ran up through the middle of the loft room because the boiler had been installed in the centre of the house, which was impractical and inconvenient. There was – and still is – a lot that needs to be done.

Exterior issues

The house is an end-of-row property, next to a country lane, with lots of farm traffic trundling by. There was no fencing outside, just a hedge.

And no space to park our cars. The first thing we did was to remedy this by removing the many conifer trees to

NOVEMBER 2021 | 19

Love it

1960S SEMI

Make it!

IDEA TO STEAL

SPICE RACK

‘Paint a mirror frame the same colour as the walls for a cohesive look’

YOU WILL NEED Pallet wood Jigsaw Sander Paint or clear varnish Drill Twine Wall hook or large nail

1 2

Cut the wood into five equal lengths using the jigsaw.

Using the sander, give the wood a light sanding to remove any rough edges. Apply a couple of coats of paint if you want to change the colour, or clear varnish if you prefer the wood look.

When the paint is dry, drill holes either end, 5cm from the edge of each piece. Ensure that the holes in the planks line up.

Thread the twine through the holes, tying big knots to evenly space out the shelves.

Join the two loose pieces of twine at the top and hang on the wall using a hook or large nail.

3

4 5

‘I LOVE GREEN AND PINK SO I’VE USED THAT COLOUR COMBO TO LINK ROOM SCHEMES’ create so e space. e ouse is only 500m away from Luke’s parents’ farm, and we were lucky to be able to use their equipment, including a JCB, to make it happen.

Creating our haven SPICE IT UP

‘I made the spice rack out of old pallets I found on Luke’s parent’s farm’

20 | NOVEMBER 2021

We’ve been able to cut down on costs by doing trade-offs on jobs, so Luke can offer his plumbing skills in exchange for replastering and decorating various parts of our house. Each year we’ve

one so e ing new in er s o improving and upgrading our home.

One of the first things was tackling the boiler. We moved it to a small box room located at the front of the property, which meant we could knock down the horrendous pillar in the middle of the loft room and were then able to finish off our bedroom, which was in the existing extension. We had the roof replaced, redesigned the whole space and then Luke put in an en suite. There

1960S SEMI

Love it

MY SPACE

‘I spend so much of my time in the living area, it’s definitely my favourite spot’

3 of the best

HALLWAY STORAGE UNITS Space-saving clutter busters

Lucy cane Cream storage bench, £169, Dunelm

Skandi hallway unit, £110, Habitat

Bronx compact shoe storage, £225, Next Home

CHILL ZONE

‘It’s a calming space that feels different as the seasons change.

In the winter it’s cosy, but bright and airy in the summer’

WALL MONTAGE

‘I enjoy creating fun areas of interest’

NOVEMBER 2021 | 21

IDEA TO STEAL

BLUE BURST

‘I used bolder colours in the dining room to make an impact’

22 | NOVEMBER 2021

‘Use a colourful wall hanging to brighten an unused corner’

1960S SEMI

Love it

CORNER PIECE

‘I used green paint to colour block this space and added paper vines’

LIVING DISPLAY

‘Plants always brighten a space’

was a horizontal steel support running along the side of the loft space, which has now been covered up and transformed into useful extra storage by installing a window seat. We couldn’t have used the space in any other way and we think it’s worked out great.

New scheme

We started updating our living room next and that’s what really got me back into colour. We weren’t sure whether we would be staying in the house long-term, so at that point it still hadn’t been

‘BY DOING AS MUCH OF THE WORK AS YOU CAN YOURSELF, IT FEELS LIKE YOU’VE PUT YOUR HEART AND SOUL INTO YOUR HOME’

3 of the best MURALS

Bring a blank canvas to life with a well-chosen wall covering

Pots And Flowers

by Gabriela Larios, £35sq m, Wallsauce

Jungle Escape 350x240cm, £100, I Love Wallpaper

Savanna Sunset Mural (made-to-measure), from £295, Avalana Design

SUN RISE

‘The colourful theme continues onto the landing’

NOVEMBER 2021 | 23

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Keep high-traffic areas clear with shelving, hooks and storage seating’

COLOURFUL WORLD

‘There are lots of murals throughout the house. I discovered them through Instagram and thought I’d give it a go myself’

24 | NOVEMBER 2021

1960S SEMI

JUNGLE VIBES

‘I’ve revived the box room by creating another mural wall’

Do it!

HANG 3D PRISM GARLANDS

YOU WILL NEED Prism template Coloured card Glue gun Scissors Needle Twine String

1 2 3 4

Print your template onto coloured card and cut out.

Score along the dotted lines of the template. Fold the card to form the prism and glue to secure.

Repeat to make more prisms until you reach your desired length.

Thread a needle with twine.

Pull the needle through the top of one prism, thread through a second prism from the inside.

Make a loop in the twine at each end and hang the prism garland.

5

‘NEVER LET BUDGET BLOCK CREATIVITY! MAKE AN AMAZING MONTAGE WITH POSTCARDS KIDS’ ARTWORK OR WALLPAPER SCRAPS’ personalised, but we decided it would be our long-term home once Otis was born. I was inspired by a living area I’d seen where three of the walls were painted in different colours. I found that really interesting. I chose two neutral shades and a bold one for our space. As it’s a small multifunctional room, serving as a living room, playroom and dining room, using different colours allowed me to zone it, which works really well, even in such a small space. The olive green is the main shade; it’s a gentle, earthy colour that makes the artwork pop.

Mural magic

There’s also a lot of influence from my mum here. I grew up in a colourful house, where she even painted an under-the-sea world in our downstairs loo, so it’s not surprising I followed suit! The first mural

I did was the one on the stairs and landing. I sketched an idea of what I wanted onto the wall using a pencil, and then bought some Valspar tester paint pots and used those to paint it. I did it in my son’s nap time, so it took a while. I wanted a solid block colour, which takes more coats of paint, especially when you’re using yellows and oranges.

Kitchen update

The kitchen is about 10 years old and it’s on its last legs, but it has to last until we add a side extension. I never liked it though, because it was painted grey and had grey tiles and dreary neutral cabinets.

I found the cane that I’ve used on the cabinets in Luke’s grandpa’s garage. He used to make cane chairs and Luke’s grandma kept all his tools and materials when he passed away. I cut the cane

GET CRAFTY

‘This is a handy spot to store pencils’

Love it

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Instead of a headboard, paint the alcove in a contrasting shade’

down and used hot glue to stick it onto the cabinet and then edged it with thick twine. I put new copper handles on the doors. I’m happy with the vibe I’ve created here. I wanted a street-food Caribbean-style relaxed influence in the kitchen and I think I’ve achieved that.

Future plans

We are not going to replace the bathroom, but I’d eventually like to paint the tiles and add vinyl to some of the doors. I’ve always been drawn to colour and pattern, and our home brings a lot of joy’.

IN LINE

‘The hanging tassels are homemade’

26 | NOVEMBER 2021

Find more clever ideas to style up your home by going to pinterest.com/ styleathomemag

FEATURE IFEOLUWA ADEDEJI PHOTOGRAPHS JEREMY PHILIPS

HOME VIEWS

‘Otis loves to sit in the window seat as he can see his grandparents’ farm from there’

1960S SEMI

Love it

CHILD’S PLAY

‘I created a fun and playful scene in Otis’s bedroom by painting the walls’

‘MY MUM IS A SEAMSTRESS SO I’VE GROWN UP WITH THE IDEA OF FIXING THINGS YOURSELF AND/OR MAKING IT YOURSELF’ TO-DO LIST

‘Next, I’d like to get creative in the bathroom’

Where to buy Naomi’s style

B&Q Handy one-stop shop for all the tools and resources you need to tackle any DIY project.

DUNELM Natalie’s go-to for decent-priced soft furnishings and storage solutions.

HAYSTORE INTERIORS Offers unique vintage finds.

CHARITY SHOPS Always worth checking out for pieces that can be used for upcycling projects.

BERYLUNE An independent homeware store that also sells cards, candles and condiments.

NOVEMBER 2021 | 27

£90

This Hemnes shoe cabinet is perfect for upcycling with pretty papers, Ikea

HOLDS 12 PAIRS

From £20

Place your favourite real or faux greenery in this Dalston plant pot in Sea Spray, Leaf Envy

£24.95

Place a single stem in this industrialstyle test tube vase, Graham and Green

Buy Naomi’s style…

ECLECTIC BRIGHTS Vibrant colours, lively patterns and hand-crafted touches establish a feel-good scheme

N

aomi has created a colourful family home through clever use of colour and pattern. A balance of muted hues and saturated shades ensures a harmonious flow.

Hand-painted murals offer bursts of vibrant pattern, while upcycled furniture contributes a nostalgic feel. Gallery walls and crafted accessories such as woven hangings and embellished baskets further lend an eclectic artisan vibe.

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

£25

Layer a seating area with plush pillows.

Pink velvet cushion with fringe, Idyll Home

£12

Fill a kitchen shelf with beautiful glazed ceramics.

Muggins Tea Towel mug, Loaf

28 | NOVEMBER 2021

JUNGLE STRIPES

£18

Add a touch of whimsy with quirky accessories.

Gold zebra standing plant, Matalan

ECLECTIC BRIGHTS

Buy it

SPREAD THE WORD

£28

Hang a decorative mirror as part of a gallery wall. Round star and moon hanging embellished mirror, Oliver Bonas

£49.50

Create an artisan vibe with this Layla fabric wall hanging, Oliver Bonas

From £16

Give off good vibes with a positive poster. The Sun Will Rise art print by OMG Kitty, I am Fy!

£1,599

Invest in space for the whole family. Arni corner sofa in Aegean Blue Textured Weave, Made

£40

£25

Utilise versatile storage for stashing clutter.

Rixy collapsible ball basket, La Redoute

Light up a dark corner. Darlington uplighter floor lamp, John Lewis & Partners

£10

Prettify a plain unit with beautiful new handles. Ocean crater knob in Blue Green, Anthropologie

NOVEMBER 2021 | 29

‘This property BARGAIN BUY

‘I picked up this table from a local selling site for a mere £20, and then complemented it with these Tolix-style chairs for £25 each from eBay’

NEW LOOK

‘I bought this dresser from Gumtree; it was an ugly orangey pine colour so I whitewashed it’

COME ON IN!

ABOUT ME I’m Vikki Tristram, 38, a property manager, and I live here with my boyfriend, Jon Goodwin, 31, an engineering supplier, and his son, Will, eight, who visits at weekends.

I Instagram my rental journey over at @vikkis_vintage_life.

OUR HOME We live in a two-bed Victorian terrace in Derby which I have been renting since March 2014.

WHEN I MOVED IN It was in a good state, but had a lot of bold wallpaper and chipped magnolia paint.

AND NOW I’ve chosen a simple colour palette and warm textures to create a home that is relaxing but with a sophisticated edge.

STYLE TIP Being a considerate but savvy decorator means that I’ve kept the landlord happy while making this rental feel like home.

30 | NOVEMBER 2021

TWO-BED RENTAL

Love it

FEELS LIKE HOME’ IDEA TO STEAL

‘Spray a hula hoop gold and adorn with foliage for a stylish wall decoration’

Using upcycling tricks and landlordfriendly hacks, Vikki has given her rental a neutral yet sophisticated look that has a timeless appeal

B

efore I moved here I was living in a two-bed house around the corner. Though it was a lot smaller than this, it was lovely, but sadly the landlord decided to sell so I had to move,’ says Vikki. ‘I was lucky as this place popped up on the market and I fell in love straight away.

All the period features appealed to me: the wooden floors, the hallway tiles, the big bathroom with roll-top bath and the chrome fireplace, and though the kitchen is quite small, the rest of the house has lovely big rooms so it was a real find. In general I don’t think it’s so easy to find a rental property of this quality, and you might have to be willing to compromise, so I was fortunate, as these houses usually come up to buy rather than rent.

Must-haves

One of the non-negotiables for me when looking for a rental is that the kitchen and bathroom are a blank canvas, so no green baths or brightly coloured mosaic tiles, as wall colours can be changed but you can’t change kitchen cabinets or fixed furniture. Luckily the kitchen is a simple, all-white design, so I just refreshed the white walls and updated the room by painting the back wall blue. I stuck white self-adhesive vinyl inside the glass of the wall cabinets to make them look a bit tidier. The only thing the bathroom needed was the floor painting which, to be honest, needs doing regularly to keep it looking clean and fresh, but that’s the nature of on-going maintenance.

Quick overhaul

The landlord got the carpets cleaned before I moved in and though the decor throughout was in fairly good

NOVEMBER 2021 | 31

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Keep good-looking copper saucepans on display’

‘IT’S GOOD TO EXPERIMENT AND FIND YOUR STYLE – I’VE TRIED DARKER AND BRIGHTER COLOURS BUT LEARNED THAT NEUTRAL SHADES ARE MY TASTE’ condition, the walls needed a bit of a spruce up so I asked if I could decorate straight away. I initially kept everything pretty much the same and just colour-matched the rooms with a fresh lick of paint. In the bedroom I used a soft white paint on the walls but originally kept the feature wallpaper in there which was plain enough.

HIDE AWAY

‘There’s loads of hidden storage for my pots and pans behind this roll-top door’

32 | NOVEMBER 2021

Update time

Next, I moved onto the living room which was originally an olive green colour. I did like it, but there was also a feature wall of lime green, brown and white stripes, which I thought was too modern for the traditional feel of the house, so I painted it the same green

as the rest of the room, and then I lived with the house as it was for a few years.

I’d been keeping the decor fresh, but by the time lockdown happened I was ready for a change. I’d wanted to take the doors off the built-in cupboard in the living room for a long time, so when Jon managed to remove them I thought it was time to go for it and decorate the house with my style in mind. We had a two-week holiday booked in April, which we had to cancel, so I decided to take the time off anyway and redecorate.

New beginning

I started with the living room and decided to paint the walls grey, though this shade is slightly cooler than I expected,

TWO-BED RENTAL

Do it!

BLACK FOR GOOD

‘Though I’d prefer these tiles to be white, I do like the subway design and they are in really good condition, so I’ve styled the room around them’

DECORATE A RENTAL

Love it

OUT OF SIGHT

‘The kitchen is small but we are lucky to have a cellar where we keep our freezer and tumble dryer’

Always ask the homeowner’s permission before you start, and show example images or share photos of previous projects you’ve done.

Use stickers or vinyl wrap to cover ugly worktops or unsightly tiles, which are easily removable, as is self-adhesive wallpaper.

Changing handles or removing doors are easy updates, but make sure you can re-attach them.

Command strips are a renter’s friend as they leave no damage on walls, or simply lean pictures against a wall for a modern display.

Cheap cotton rugs are useful for covering up ugly carpets, and throws and cushions can personalise a space.

Use tester pots to create colour blocks or stripes that are easy to paint over if you move.

COLOUR SWAP

‘Painting over the black wallpaper and then adding panelling has given this room a complete makeover and is much more my style’

NOVEMBER 2021 | 33

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Tall grasses are good for adding interest to a wall in a high ceilinged room’

TEXTURED HOME

‘I made the artwork myself using canvasses from the pound shop.

I liked that they already had a bit of a frame around them’

SIDE JOB

‘I did a little Insta challenge and bought this table for under £20 and upcycled it’

OPEN UP

‘Taking the doors off this unit was a game changer, though I’ve kept them in the cellar so if I move we can put them on again’

34 | NOVEMBER 2021

but I couldn’t look at any colours as all the shops were closed and it was hard to get paint, so I just had to look online and hope for the best. The white paintwork had turned a yellowy colour and was chipped, but I had some leftover masonry paint from works outside, which I used to refresh the woodwork. I thought, if it’s good enough for outside it must be hardwearing enough for indoors, and I like the modern look of the matt finish.

Perfect panelling

Then in the summer I moved on to the dining room. The walls were black and coffee coloured, so I painted them all white and then whitewashed the fireplace.

It had been more of a bright red brick colour, which I wanted to tone down and make a bit more rustic looking.

I bought the shelves from Facebook

TWO-BED RENTAL

Love it

3 of the best TEXTURED CUSHIONS Snuggle up with one of these soft styles y

FLUFFY MAZE Tufted Trellis cushion cover, £10, Primark

KNOTTED DESIGN Marvellous Macrame cushion, £35, Joe Browns

SYMMETRICAL SQUARES

Boho textured cushion, £16, Habitat

‘WHEN DOING UP A RENTAL, APART FROM PAINT, TRY TO ONLY SPEND MONEY ON ITEMS THAT YOU CAN TAKE WITH YOU WHEN YOU MOVE’

Make it!

ABSTRACT ART

1

Choose a canvas size and decide on your design – it can be quite simple in style and you don’t need to be able to draw.

Prime the canvas by painting it all white. When dry, randomly spread it with all-purpose, ready-mixed filler for a 3D effect.

Use sponges to dab your chosen paint colours on the canvas.

Add extra texture or paint layers with a sponge or paintbrush to achieve your desired finish. Leave to dry then hang.

2

3 4

HOT SPOT

‘The gas fireplace is a lovely feature in this room and the big mirror, from The Range, fits over it perfectly’

NOVEMBER 2021 | 35

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Hang a cute plant from a small wooden bracket in an empty corner’

FRESH LINE

‘The wardrobe panels were originally green glass so I painted them with primer then white eggshell’

Marketplace, a bargain as they were only £10 for three, and I stripped and painted them and then attached them with new brackets from Ikea. But even with the sofa against the wall, the space looked quite bare so I decided to add panelling.

To be honest I just winged it; we were at B&Q so I asked them to cut some MDF for me. I hadn’t measured it for size, so when we got it home it was too long, but we re-cut it and simply used Gorilla Glue and a few nails to keep it up.

Colour block ALL ROUND

‘The wall decoration is pampas grass glued to a hoop’

36 | NOVEMBER 2021

The last room to tackle was the spare room which I decorated so that Jon’s son has a nice room when he comes to stay.

I wanted to try colour-blocking and this was the perfect place to give it a go.

People make it look really easy but I just couldn’t get the lines straight. I put the

TWO-BED RENTAL LAYER UP

‘I love to mix beige and greys with lots of texture as it makes a neutral scheme more interesting’

Love it

Where to buy Vikki’s style

FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE A great place to find a secondhand bargain; collection-only items are often that bit cheaper.

H&M HOME Large selection of cushions, throws and rugs that follow all the latest trends.

EBAY A great place to hunt for bargains that are new, as often larger stores will sell seconds, last season’s styles or sale items.

PRIMARK Budget-friendly store so you can experiment with decor and not worry if you want a change.

ON POINT

‘I added the vinyl triangle stickers which I thought were fun’

‘IF YOU HAVE A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR LANDLORD AND THEY SEE THAT YOU DO QUALITY WORK THEY MAY LET YOU DO WHAT YOU WANT’

TOP TUB

FEATURE LISA MOSES PHOTOGRAPHS KATIE JANE WATSON

‘It’s such a treat having a roll-top bath and it’s an unusual but luxurious feature to have in a rental’

tape on and used a spirit level but then realised the walls weren’t straight so eventually I did it by eye.

Final push

Being in one place for seven years is a long time for renting, and a lot of people ask me why I spend money decorating someone else’s house, but it’s a source of pride for me, as well as a hobby, and it’s important to make where I live feel like my home. And anyway, other than paint, I try not to spend a lot of money on things I can’t take with me when I leave!’

Find more clever ideas to style up your home by going to pinterest.com/ styleathomemag

NOVEMBER 2021 | 37

£375

Hide dining room clutter away.

Chalford Dark Grey cupboard, THE COTSWOLD COMPANY

£69.99

Make a statement with a Gothic style mirror, HOMESCAPES

£34.99

Buy Vikki’s style…

Add height with a floor-standing plant.

Faux Swiss cheese plant, ROBERT DYAS

RUSTIC NEUTR

Create a relaxed, easy-to-live-with look using g soft tones and natural textures

V

ikki has put her own stamp on a rental home without the need for costly refurbishments.

Using a neutral palette as her starting point has given the space a sense of flow, so each room leads easily into the next with no harsh colour changes.

Adding visual interest to individual rooms was achieved in a variety of ways, from chic painted panelling in the dining room and a feature splashback in the kitchen, to vinyl stickers and bold wall art in upstairs bed drooms.

£26.99

FEATURE LISA FAZZANI

£35

Add a boho vibe with woven textures.

Water hyacinth mirror, £35, JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS

38 | NOVEMBER 2021

Add a few soft knits in subtle shades. Chevron knit throw, VERY

£189

RUSTIC FINISH

Work in weathered wood pieces.

Worcester reclaimed wood lamp table, MODISH LIVING

RUSTIC NEUTRALS

Buy it

£14.95

£10

Create a coastal vibe with artwork.

Painted Sea No 2 poster, DESENIO

Cosy up the sofa with tactile cushions. Savannah cushion, B&M

£35

Style up shelves.

Noto circular vase, CULT FURNITURE

£25

OCEAN FEELS

Stash throws in a chunky basket. Zig-zag seagrass basket, FIVE AND DIME

£649.99

Start with neutral grey seating. Vejlby sofa bed chaise longue, JYSK

£25

£209

Mix smooth and textured surfaces. Ananke table lamp in Grey, B&Q

Keep it classic with shaggy Berber-style rugs. Orianna diamond patterned rug, CULT FURNITURE

IN THE GROOVE

£46.99

Supplement living room seating. Antoinette pouffe in Grey, WAYFAIR

NOVEMBER 2021 | 39

STATEMENT VASES

Do it

THIS MONTH’S

Do it

Personalise a plain vase with painted shapes. Use masking tape to mark out geometric shapes, then fill in with multi-surface paint.

Apply a second coat. Once dry, use a small paint brush to apply random dots and strokes in black and gold.

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH RUST-OLEUM

Fill with dried grasses and wildflowers

Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch multi-surface paint in Light Grey, Lemon, Black and Gold, £3.50 for 20ml, B&Q

NOVEMBER 2021 | 41

HAPPY AT HOME

‘Rejigging the layout has made the most of our fabulous home’

‘We’ve dared to SMART SCHEME

‘I’ve used colour to zone different spaces in our open-plan living area – plush pinks for lounging, deep teal for dining’

COME ON IN!

ABOUT ME I’m Lu Fitoussi-Findlay, 38, and I run interior design company LUFF Studio. I live here with my husband Raphael, 35, a property advisor, and our two-year-old daughter Sylvie.

MY HOME A three-bedroom, split-level flat in a Victorian conversion in Blackheath, south-east London. We moved here in 2017.

WHEN WE MOVED IN It had been rented out, so it was in a state and the basement smelt of damp.

AND NOW We moved windows and doors to create a layout that flows and a home that is full of light. I’ve decorated with gorgeous colours and glam pieces – it now feels fabulous!

STYLE TIP Don’t plan to get everything done at once; it’s best to live in your home first and work out what’s really missing.

42 | NOVEMBER 2021

CONVERTED FLAT

Love it

BE DECADENT’ IDEA TO STEAL

‘Add glamour with a large statement chandelier’

Lu ’s bright, airy flat is the epitome of modern opulence, decorated with a palette of dainty pinks, indigo blues and flashes of Art Deco gold

n paper, we didn’t think this flat had much going for it,’ says Lu. ‘It had been neglected by tenants, the layout made no sense, and the hall was dark and gloomy. But as soon as I walked into the sitting room and saw the high ceilings and period features, I wanted to take down the For Sale sign immediately!

We’d been living across the river in a modern, one-bedroom flat in north London. It was our first move as a couple and we were looking forward to getting a bigger place that we could work on together. We knew that this was the project we’d been after.

Bedroom hideaway

We moved in while work was being carried out, so kitting out the main bedroom and creating an en-suite bathroom were our priorities. We needed somewhere to camp out while the rest of the renovation was going on around us.

When we bought the flat, there was only one bathroom, so we made another by taking a slice out of our bedroom. This created enough space for a small ‘hidden’ shower room. We’ve put cupboards against the connecting wall and turned the whole en-suite door into a full-length mirror. When it’s closed you wouldn’t even know the room is there.

Changing the layout

The layout throughout didn’t suit us at all and there was a lot of wasted space.

There were walkways in odd places and the kitchen was tiny. Both of us love to cook, so moving the kitchen into the dining room, which was a bigger space, made total sense. Then we added a

NOVEMBER 2021 | 43

Love it

CONVERTED FLAT

GLAMOUR FIND

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Keep elegant wicker baskets on hand to banish unwanted clutter’

‘I love to throw in unexpected pieces, like this grand Rococo mirror that I found in a vintage shop’

LUXE TOUCH

‘Natural wood doesn’t suit an opulent look. I’ve gone for darker tones with glossy, polished finishes that feel luxurious’

44 | NOVEMBER 2021

BALANCE OUT

‘The soothing grey walls and floor stop my dramatic pieces and colour choices from overpowering the room’

‘GET INSPIRATION FOR COLOUR SCHEMES FROM PINTEREST AND INSTAGRAM, AS WELL AS GORGEOUS SPREADS IN INTERIORS AND FASHION MAGS’ back door leading onto the garden and widened the doorway into the living room to make it feel more open-plan.

Rejigging the basement was a bigger job.

It had been used as a laundry room, and the smell of damp was horrible. We opened the bricked-up windows and moved an internal wall to screen off the washing machine, but made sure to leave enough room for a double bedroom. We needed the extra space and were about to start IVF, so we were hoping that another bedroom would come in handy soon.

Kitchen must-haves

There were a few non-negotiables when it came to designing the kitchen, although we came to regret one or two later!

Gorgeous marble worktops were an absolute must, until we discovered that

they’re completely impractical, after several stains from wine and curries!

On the other hand, we knew we wanted to avoid low wall cabinets while still creating enough storage. So we took our tall cabinets as high as we could and installed open shelving either side of the chimney breast. It isn’t the largest kitchen, but this way we’ve managed to keep a feeling of space and not sacrificed practicality. I spent ages looking for the perfect blue units but couldn’t find any that were just right. In the end, we plumped for Ikea doors and got them professionally sprayed. Then we fitted gold bar handles for a hint of glamour.

Trick of the light

Adding light throughout the flat was really important to me, as it was so

TREASURE CHEST

‘I needed storage but didn’t want dull, white cabinets. I love this intricate design, and the polished wood hints at an Art Deco vibe’

NOVEMBER 2021 | 45

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Choose backless bar stools as their low profile won’t crowd a small space’

METALLIC FINISH

‘Copper stools and gold bar handles bring a hint of luxurious sparkle’

46 | NOVEMBER 2021

CONVERTED FLAT

dark when we moved in. We moved windows about and added larger ones in some places, like in the main bathroom.

It’s opened up the flat and, with help from the open-plan layout, light now flows through. The office has a large window that looks out onto the garden.

We deliberately chose a transparent glass desk and clear acrylic chair, so as not to block out the view and the light from the window. Downstairs in the basement I painstakingly glossed the ceiling to reflect as much light as possible.

Love it

CLEAR CHOICES

‘We saved the original dining room window and put it in as a full-length one in the study’

Finding my look

I didn’t realise I had a particular style before decorating this flat. Now, I’d describe it as Art Deco meets modern with some luxe finishes thrown in. It’s fairly eclectic – anything goes as long as there’s flow. The main thing I do is choose a key palette of colours and use those throughout to create continuity. Pinks, blues and greys are my go-to hues,

‘TRANSPARENT FURNITURE MEANS NOTHING STOPS THE LIGHT POURING IN’

KEEP IT SIMPLE

‘Painting the floors pale grey contrasts beautifully with the navy beams’

ON REPEAT

‘The bath and basin are clad in the same marble we used in the kitchen and we’ve added the same colours to bring the look together’

Do it!

UPCYCLE A CHEST OF DRAWERS

FLASH OF BRILLIANCE

‘The chest of drawers is an Ikea hack. I painted the strips gold to make it feel more special’

SOOTHING SPACE

‘I glossed the basement ceiling to reflect more light, then decorated with soft pinks and textured greys to create warmth’

1 2

Buy a basic chest of drawers from Ikea. Lu has gone for the Malm design.

Paint the strips in between the drawers. Metallic golds and coppers add a luxe quality; bright primary colours bring a sense of fun to a kid’s bedroom; and pastel tones will suit a serene guest suite.

Paint a set of hairpin legs in the same colour, then securely attach them to the chest of drawers to elevate the look. Lu’s set are from The Hairpin Leg Co.

3

TACTILE FINISH

‘In our bedroom, I’ve injected comfort with soft textures – natural linens and sheepskin are mixed in with shiny sateen cushions’

IDEA TO STEAL ‘Frame a lovely window with dark curtains’

Make it!

BUTTON-BACK HEADBOARD

1 2 3 4 5 6

Buy a piece of MDF, cut to the measurements of your bed.

Use a spray adhesive to attach a layer of mattress padding to the wood. Flip it over and trim to size.

Cover the board and padding with a layer of batting fabric and secure in place.

Decide where you want your buttons to go and drill holes according to your design.

Cover with a final layer of fabric using an electric stapler.

Attach pretty fabric-covered buttons to the headboard holes using a long upholstery needle and thread.

48 | NOVEMBER 2021

CONVERTED FLAT

Love it

Where to buy Lu’s style B&Q The one-stop shop for any keen DIYer – this store became Lu’s second home during the renovation. As well as all the essentials, they have some great cheap houseplants too to add the finishing touches.

H&M HOME Plenty of bedding, kitchenware, vases and trinkets to choose from – all in lovely prints and colours, and all super affordable.

MAISONS DU MONDE After a lot of hunting, Lu found her fabulous blue dining room chairs here. A go-to places for interesting furniture and accessories.

LITTLE GREENE Almost all the paint in the house is from Little Greene. With a wide selection to choose from, Lu found the perfect blue, Basalt, for her bathroom.

FEATURE STEPHANIE SMITH/GEORGIE RODGERS PHOTOGRAPHS DAVID GILES

Find more clever ideas to style up your home by going to pinterest.com/ styleathomemag

‘GIVE EVERYTHING A ‘PLACE’– ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS PUT EACH THING BACK EVERY TIME AND THINGS SHOULD STAY TIDY… IN THEORY!’ then I’ve added opulent gold accents. I love the indigo blue in the kitchen. It’s definitely possible to use dark, rich colours in a small home, as long as the room is bright enough.

I’ve dared to be decadent and I love the way it all flows.

Tidy home

Finding creative ways to banish clutter and keep the flat tidy were crucial, especially as it’s a smaller space. We’re lucky that we can use the basement to hide things away but, even so, the storage in the flat wasn’t great. We put in tall cupboards in the office and kitchen, and have smart under-bed storage. I veer away from collections and curating overly populated shelfscapes. It helps the flat look less packed with stuff – plus, I can’t be dealing with

BRIGHT BEDROOM

‘Half-painted walls and an oversized white pendant light make this room feel fresh and clean’

all the dusting! Then, we’ve gone for fewer, larger pieces, like our supersized sofa, which looks less cluttered than lots of smaller things to bump into.

Unexpected surprises

We wanted a project we could take on together and that’s certainly what we got with this flat. Everything seemed to cost more than we initially budgeted for and there were inevitable hiccups along the way that we needed extra cash for.

A rotten timber under the fireplace that needed replacing, a bit of woodworm that needed treating… being an older property we didn’t know what we’d find! The hard work hasn’t put us off at all and we love how it’s turned out.

Now we’ve got the bit between our teeth, we’ll probably go for something completely untouched next time!’

NOVEMBER 2021 | 49

£145

RETRO VIBE

Go for rich, dark wood tones, Orleans TV stand, DUNELM

£3.99

Pop in jewel colours with glassware.

Purple tumbler, TK MAXX

£97.50

A velvet finish adds decadent flair.

Mauricette dining chair, MAISONS DU MONDE

£22.50

Buy Lu’s style…

Adding fabulous flapper vibes. Gatsby fringed cushion, MINT & MAY

VINTAGE GLAMOUR Classically-inspired pieces plus glam gold and brass accents give this pared-back space a luxuriously plush finish

D

ove grey walls and lightwashed flooring is the perfect base on which to layer up polished and luxe finishes.

The combination of subtle curves with velvet finishes for the sofa, chair and dining seats brings a feminine opulence with a nod to Deco decadence. Flashes of polished and antiqued brass offer a shortcut to a chic look, while dark wood furniture creates a rich yet warm contrast.

£119.99

Mix brass and marble for a luxe look. Rhea marble effect coffee table, THE RANGE

50 | NOVEMBER 2021

£799

Fluting and curves create Deco pizzazz.

Enchanted four-seater sofa in velvet Blush, DFS

VINTAGE GLAMOUR

Buy it

GO FOR GRAND

£169

Crystal swags add ultimate glamour.

Pioni chandelier, LIGHTS AND LAMPS

£255

Pick a showstopping mirror for a focal point. Mayfair ornate wall mirror, SELECT MIRRORS

£32

A new twist on an accent ece.

Oleada se, OLIVER BONAS

From £32.95

Go for faded grandeur.

In & outdoor rug in Antique Turquoise, BENUTA

£15

Simple but striking stems. Pussy willow spray, COTSWOLD COMPANY

FEATURE URE MICHELA COLLING

PRET TOUCH

NOVEMBER 2021 | 51

THE STYLE BOOK INDUSTRIAL INFLUENCES

Take inspiration from urban lofts and converted factory floors to create a rustic vibe. Use bare brick, untreated wood and mixed metals for no-frills style

PLUS!

DECO IDEAS

Pull out and keep!

Keep cabinetry sleek and minimal with a matt, handle-free design in grey-blue

Pick a range cooker with black flue pipe

Loft

LIVING

Raw touches channel urban apartment vibes

THE FABRIC Taimi in Kiwi/ Poppy/ Charcoal, £32m, Scion

THE WALLPAPER Grandeco neutral faux brick wall effect embossed wallpaper, £16 a roll, B&Q

THE PAINT

Ditch The Tie flat matt paint, £40 for 2.5ltr, Coat Paints

THE FLOORING

Harran antique vintage blue pattern floor tiles, £13.95sq m, Walls and Floors

Create an industrialinspired bathroom with copper shelving, traditional chromeware and rustic tiles

Why it works

the STYLE RULES

EMBRACE CITY STYLE Get the look of a loft apartment with an open-plan kitchen featuring an exposed brick wall. Or use fauxeffect wallpaper to cheat the look.

MIX AND MATCH METALS Swap wall cabinets for open shelving in chunky stainless steel and install chrome fixings like taps and radiators.

Contrast this with factory-style copper pendants overhanging a kitchen island and old-school bar stools.

CREATE AGED-EFFECT FLOORING Go simple with dark hardwood or wood-effect laminate. Alternatively, why not add interest with vintagestyle patterned floor tiles?

DON’T FORGET TO ADD COLOUR Complement metallic hues with blocks of grubby green and blue on walls or cabinetry. Minimal pops of fuchsia and other brights on accessories and wall art will make the scheme feel more light-hearted.

STYLE AT HOME SAYS… ‘Muted blues and greens complement warm copper accents beautifully, as well as adding a welcome splash of colour to what can otherwise be a stark scheme.’

Style editor, Michela Colling

Increase comfort with detachable headboards

the STYLE RULES THINK COOL AND CONTEMPORARY Capture the trend with concrete effects on walls and floors. Play with different finishes such as an untreated texture on walls, contrasted by polished concretelook tiles or vinyl on floors.

ADD SOFTNESS TO THE SCHEME In a bedroom, enhance the industrial feel with a wood panelled bed frame. Prettify concrete finishes with luxurious fabrics such as a

velvet bedspread in sumptuous chartreuse. Add subtle pattern with abstract design pillows.

COMBINE METALLIC FINISHES Increase opulence with a hammered brass side table and a duo of pendant lights in matt black and brushed gold.

KEEP ACCESSORIES FUSS FREE Stay true to the scheme by choosing sleek shapes for everything from lighting to vases. Strictly no frills!

Florence double bed in Grey Marl Highland tweed, £1,000, Sofa.com

Urban LUXE

Juxtapose rustic and opulent finishes

THE FABRIC

Kensington velvet in Olive, £81.41m, Prestigious Textiles

THE WALLPAPER GoodHome Sarry Beige concrete effect textured wallpaper, £16 a roll, B&Q

THE PAINT

Rust-Oleum Chalkwash Light Concrete flat matt emulsion paint, £5 for 125ml, B&Q

THE FLOORING

Spaces Bruges indoor grey tile, £51.94sq m, Topps Tiles

Rustic REDS

Marry russet shades and natural wood grains

THE FABRIC Buckton in Spice, £20m, Studio G at Jane Clayton & Company

THE WALLPAPER Wooden effect in Charcoal Brown, £26.99 a roll, Albany at Wallpaper Direct

THE PAINT

Dulux Heritage matt emulsion in Red Ochre, £42 for 2.5ltr, Homebase

THE FLOORING

Tegola Mountain Oak Nature laminate, £19.99sq m, Carpetright

Hang a canteen-style noticeboard

Why it works Iconic Cubik painted electric pendant in Matt Black, £80, Iconic Lights

STYLE AT HOME SAYS…

the STYLE RULES

Kahrs rugged crater wood flooring, £74.99sq m, Carpetright

SEE RED DIFFERENTLY Earthy tones of red such as russet and brick help to create a cosseting feel in any room. However, these shades work especially well in smaller spaces like a country kitchen or study space that requires an injection of cosy colour.

COMPLEMENT WITH NATURALS Team red walls with warm neutrals and wood flooring featuring prominent grains. Embrace furniture

boasting organic shapes and unvarnished natural-looking timber.

Black and deep browns also further enhance the industrial feel.

ADMIRE THE WIRE Once more, metal accents are prominent in this scheme; a gold wirework chair perfectly complements a reclaimed wood desk with black metal hairpin legs.

A black wirework pendant also enhances the masculine feel.

‘Red can be a tricky colour to get right on walls. However, earthy shades include brown undertones, making them the perfect pairing for wood finishes.’

Senior FeatureS editor, Stephanie Durrant

Use clip-on task lights to highlight trophy shelves

the STYLE RULES USE PALE COLOURS ON WALLS If a room needs to work hard in terms of purpose and functionality, a light colour such as a barelythere blue/grey on the walls will help make the space feel bigger.

Pick open shelving to display books and memorabilia.

CREATE A PARLOUR FEEL Style a seating area with a leather lounge chair and traditional English roll arm sofa. Pile on

mismatched cushions featuring Union Jacks and barber stripes.

SIZE MATTERS Increase the industrial feel with a dark wood coffee table that has handy storage drawers and an oversized chrome task lamp.

BE PRACTICAL For heavy-traffic areas, opt for wipeable wood laminate or easy-maintenance vinyl flooring.

Team with a hard-wearing jute rug.

Muted primary shades are ideal for creating a masculine look without feeling too juvenile.

Leather upholstery and reclaimed wood furniture will help make it look more ‘member’s club’ than ‘youth club’

Modern

EXPLORER Create a travellers’ space in muted primary colours

THE FABRIC

Vintage Stripe 2 in Peony, £37.50m, Ian Mankin at Jane Clayton & Company

THE WALLPAPER Moon in Blue, £41 a roll, Engblad & Co at Wallpaper Direct

THE PAINT

Wilko Walls & Ceilings Grey Skies matt emulsion, £12 for 2.5ltr, Wilko

THE FLOORING

Sisal rug in Linen/ Red, from £139, Jane Clayton & Company

Invest in classic shutters

Industrial SOHO

Contrast man-made elements with organic textures

THE FABRIC

Bravo chenille in Marine, £23.76m, Prestigious Textiles

THE WALLPAPER Fresco distressed brick in Navy/Red, £10 a roll, Wilko

THE PAINT

Rust-Oleum Black matt chalkboard paint, £15 for 750ml, B&Q

THE FLOORING

Jesse faux cowhide rug, from £25, Dunelm

Eddie velvet tub chair in Peacock, £139; Stockholm cushion in Brown, £8; three shelf modular storage, £30; Fulton pine wide shelf, £40; Amber ridged glass vase, £25; mango wood bowl with geo print, £14, all Dunelm

Ender storage diner ceiling light; £149; Fulton bar table, £149; ikat tea towels, £4 for three; ikat dinner set, £30, all Dunelm

the STYLE RULES

STRIVE FOR AUTHENTICITY Achieve the look of an industrial apartment revamp with exposed brick wallpaper boasting varied tones for an aged feel. Marry this with flooring reminiscent of original wood floorboards.

FURTHER THE FACTORY FEEL Look for structural black and wood modular furniture. A bar table with storage shelves is a versatile addition in an open-plan kitchen.

AIM FOR BALANCE To ensure an industrial-inspired space still feels homely, include plenty of soft furnishings. Pick textured neutrals and monochrome ikats for a boho twist or add depth with peacock blue.

CREATE AN URBAN OASIS Bring the outdoors in with plenty of leafy houseplants. They not only add a welcome hit of greenery, but will improve wellbeing by releasing oxygen into your home.

STYLE AT HOME SAYS… ‘Rugged brick walls and worn wood floors are balanced by the structural elements of modular furniture and organic shapes of luscious sprouting leaves.’ decorating editor, Nicky Phillips

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

Why it works

COMING NEXT MONTH...

MODERN CHRISTMAS

Get ready for the festive season with contemporary decorating ideas that are sure to wow friends and family

Looking for more decor ideas? Visit us online at idealhome.co.uk/style-at-home

for plenty of design inspiration and expert style tips to make your home even more beautiful

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH AMARA

Plus… CREATIVE PAINT IDEAS

GOLDEN FANS

Ginkgo leaf in Navy, £16 a roll, Wilko

SWOOPING SWALLOWS

SECRET SANCTUARY

Japanese Garden in Ochre, £13 a roll, Arthouse at Wallpaperdirect

Edo Toile in Navy, £65 a roll, Graham & Brown

Wallpapers WITH WOW

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

Be inspired by Japanese designs depicting tranquil gardens, birds and blossoms

LUCKY CRANES

Ogata Kuren in Mint Green, £40 a roll, Lust Home

CHERRY TREES

Sublime Japan in Black/Green, £16.95 a roll, Graham & Brown at Homebase

NOVEMBER 2021 | 65

Make every space

WORK HARDER Upcycling, storage and display ideas to make the everyday easier and more stylish

A bold patterned fabric makes the headboard the focal point

Hanging headboard

Create a comfy DIY headboard by hanging large seat cushions with ties from a curtain pole. Or make your own by sewing rectangles of fabric right sides facing, sandwiching three pairs of tabs along one edge. Turn right sides out, stuff lightly and sew up the gap. Then simply switch the cushions when you fancy a change.

Button curtain pole set, £67.80, Jim Lawrence. Headboard cushions in Perosita in Slate, £81.90m, William Yeoward at Inspired Fabric

Wall in Monument Grey matt emulsion, £30.04 for 2.5ltr, Dulux. Headboard in Audley in Dove Grey, £92m, Zoffany

Frame the bed

Surround an upholstered bedhead with a deep wooden frame to create a surface you can use to display ceramics and framed prints. Make your own headboard by folding and securing fabric neatly around a piece of thick foam cut to size. Ensure the frame is a snug fit and paint to coordinate with walls for a neat finish.

Layer warm greys for a smart yet comfortable vibe

Walls in Sobek 587 pure flat emulsion, £51 for 2.5ltr, Paint & Paper Library.

Mosslanda picture ledges in Black, £5 each, Ikea.

Fablon, from £3.23m, Vinyl Warehouse

Mount the top picture ledge upside down to create a flat shelf surface

Secret storage

Securely attach picture ledges to the wall, then fix an MDF board covered in sticky-back vinyl Fablon over them to create hidden cubbyholes behind. Use to tuck away books and magazines so that clutter doesn’t build up around the bed.

Rustic upcycle

Fix reclaimed wooden planks (vintage floorboards or scaffold planks are ideal) to the wall behind the bed as a textured headboard. Take the rustic charm one step further and encase your bed base in the same wood too.

FEATURE NICKY PHILLIPS AND STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

Give planks a thorough sanding down to avoid rough spots or splinters

Wall in Pavilion Gray estate emulsion, £49.50 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

Do it

PCYCLED CRATE

THIS MONTH’S

Doit

Wooden crate, £8; Helix alphabet 75mm stencil set, £15; natural jute fabric roll 2mx30cm, £5.50, all Hobbycraft

Transform a wooden crate into a rustic side table. Turn it on its side and line the inside with hessian. Add wording with stencils and spray paint, and attach castor wheels. Use to stash Bonfire Night essentials, such as matches and blankets.

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

Bring your crate table inside when the fireworks are over

70 | NOVEMBER 2021

Try a speedy

STYLE UPDATE Have fun with these simple but creative ideas that’ll ring the changes in your home without turning into a full redo

1

Paint walls in warm neutrals

Greys or whites can sometimes feel a little cold, but choosing milky, truffle-pink shades will make any space beautifully warm and soft. Choose furniture in a similarly neutral plush velvet to add a touch of restful decadence.

72 | NOVEMBER 2021

Walls in Velvet Truffle 3 matt emulsion, £30.04 for 2.5ltr, Dulux.

Hampstead four-seater sofa in Velvet Mink, £3,329, Heal’s

EASY UPDATES

Love it

3

Rose Varadero tiles, £59.99sq m, CTD Tiles

Give stair risers a bold new look

If your staircase is the first thing you see when you walk in the front door, update it with statement floor tiles. Alternatively, use a patterned wallpaper and paste this to each riser instead.

2

TILE THE WALL IN A BATHROOM

Create a feature wall in your bathroom by tiling from floor to ceiling with geometric tiles. Or go subtle and just tile a splashback or shower enclosure.

Terracotta Gammon cement encaustic tiles, £152.40sq m, Otto

Boxit Solar Green double bedframe, £499, DFS

TOP BUYS

For updating your home Cotton rope hanging rainbow, £3, B&M

Pom pom basket, £30, House of Flora

4

PAIR PINK AND GREEN IN A BEDROOM

A modern colour combo that’s perfect to create a bold boudoir, go for a bed in a deep forest green velvet, then team with blush pink walls. Accessorise with lush green plants and continue the pink theme with furniture in a similar shade.

Blue matte stoneware vase, £25, Sunday Living

Sakura poster, £9.95, Desenio

NOVEMBER 2021 | 73

Terracotta tassel basket, £22, Missguided

5

Make a display of cook books

Turn the end of an island or side of a kitchen cupboard into a space to store cook books.

Either attach a couple of slim picture ledges or fix a batten of wood or piping to built-in shelves, and pop your books behind them.

PERFECT PICKS For a new look

Rubin Case Study kitchen, from £30,000, Life Kitchens

6

STORE MAGAZINES IN A CUTE BASKET

Tidy away books and mags in a pretty basket. Make some simple tassels out of wool or embroidery thread and stitch onto the basket for extra pizzazz.

Alcove painted in Decadent Damson Simply Refresh feature wall emulsion, £25.36 for 1.5ltr, Dulux

Retro Ochre footstool, £30, B&M

Bistro dining chair, £59.99, Homesense

Sun mirror, £29.99, TK Maxx

Bathroom sign, £12.50, Oliver Bonas

74 | NOVEMBER 2021

7

ZONE YOUR OFFICE SPACE WITH COLOUR

Ensure your WFH space feels different to the rest of the room, by painting the walls in a different shade. Use masking tape to create a clear line where your ‘office’ ends.

EASY UPDATES

Love it

Walls painted in Hague Blue estate emulsion, £49.50 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

Use an extra panel to make a wall shelf for displaying fave pieces

8

Build a simple banquette

To make the most of space in a kitchen-diner, build a bench with storage using wood panels.

You can push your table closer to the wall than if you had individual chairs, plus you can store extra bits.

NOVEMBER 2021 | 75

Talia pair of spindle back chairs, Black, £160; Denver table, £320; Denver bench, £150, all Habitat

Hang a large lampshade over the table to zone the dining area

9

Put up a floating shelf

Taking up less space than shelves that require visible brackets or support, a floating shelf is ideal in a kitchen or dining space. Use to store everyday crockery and glasses, so they are easy to grab at mealtimes.

76 | NOVEMBER 2021

EASY UPDATES Herbivore gallery wall set, £348.15, Desenio

10

Love it

Orbit Black velvet double bed, £499.99, Furniture and Choice

ARRANGE A GALLERY WALL

Hangtreasuredphotos and favourite quotes to give a focal point to your room. For a unified look, choose frames of the same colour and width, but play with size to make a fun layout.

11

Layer up plain bedlinen

For a bedroom refresh swap busy patterned bedlinen for serene and simple covers. Layer up cushions and knitted throws for an extra level of cosy comfort.

MUST-HAVES

You won’t want to miss The Droplet vase in Rainbow, £26, The Happy Blossoms Adley desk lamp in Pink, £10, Iconic Lights

Eket wall-mounted units, from £35; Eket wall-mounted shelving, from £20, all Ikea

12

GET CREATIVE WITH STORAGE CUBES

You don’t have to arrange storage and shelving in a linear fashion – instead mix it up to make a wall display. Paint the storage cubes and hang them in an eye-catching formation.

Retro TV storage stand, £65, Red Candy

Home cushion, £12, Dunelm

NOVEMBER 2021 | 77

13

Indi three-drawer chest, £349, Dunelm

Upcycle furniture

Give a tired chest of drawers a new look. Attach hessian to the drawer fronts with strong adhesive, then frame the fabric with slim wooden battens to create a smart edge; finish with brass knobs

Cane bathroom caddy, £12, B&M

14

SAVE SPACE IN THE LOO WITH A CADDY

Cloakrooms often lack space for toiletries. This handy caddy attaches to the wall and has a rail for a towel too, so the basin remains uncluttered.

UNIQUE PIECES To complete the look

Work from home ottoman, £295, Next Home

Zen Onsen cushion, £55, Postcards Home

Southwold stoneware mug, £6.95, Rex London

Faux plant in ridged ceramic pot, £6, Primark

78 | NOVEMBER 2021

15

INVEST IN SAVVY STORAGE

This clever ottoman disguises your WFH set-up and can be easily packed away at the end of the day. The desk pulls out to adjustable heights with space below to keep extra linens.

FEATURE HOLLY WALSH PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

Large plywood tray, £75, Georgia Bosson

EASY UPDATES

Love it

Red fabric lighting flex cable, £5m, Quirk

Repeat the colour of the flex in artwork, to tie the look together

16

Hang pendants on colourful cables

Add interest to a neutral room by hanging pendant lights on bright flex. It will make a style statement and elevates even the most inexpensive pendant lights, making them look more designer.

NOVEMBER 2021 | 79

‘My new living room

IS MY HAVEN’

While Vanessa was hard at work, expert helping hands stepped in to turn her dreary living room into the stylish, welcoming sanctuary she deserves

COME ON IN!

CALM CORNER

‘This is a favourite reading spot for Ariella and me’

ABOUT ME I’m Vanessa Dodds. I’m an NHS midwife and I live with my daughter Ariella, who’s just turned three, in a two-bedroom terraced house in Dagenham, east London.

I moved here in 2011.

MY CHALLENGE I’d not been able to redecorate my living room for some years, so it was more than ready for a refresh. It felt drab, tired and disorganised, as there was no colour and no proper storage, nor anywhere to show nice bits and pieces. I really didn’t know how to go about redesigning the room myself.

MY WISHLIST I wanted a calming, easy-to-maintain space with colour and a clean, fresh feel. Storage for toys was an absolute must, and I liked the idea of display shelves and a small table for mealtimes with my daughter, too. I wanted a comfortable, well-designed room where we could read, eat, play and spend time together.

80 | NOVEMBER 2021

TURN OVER FOR MY SHOPPING LIST

CHARITY MAKEOVER

Love it

We love

NHS

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Use a semi-circular table to make neat use of an alcove’

FAB FLOOR

I

’d decorated the living room when I moved here about 10 years ago, but since then I just haven’t been able to update it. I’m a midwife in the NHS and my daughter, Ariella, is just three, so working through the pandemic in the past year has been hectic and stressful.

My living room was looking shabby, with plain grey walls, an old carpet and a grey sofa. There was nowhere for books, lamps or accessories, and Ariella’s toys were just stacked in one corner.

Getting started

I stumbled on Design Havens For Heroes (DH4H) by chance on Instagram, @designhavensforheroes. It’s an amazing charity made up of interior designers, tradespeople and brands. They donate time, products and skills to transform

‘The laminate floor is hard-wearing and easy to keep clean.

The rug adds a bit of softness, and I can replace it in time if I want a new look’

rooms in the homes of NHS workers, giving frontline staff a calm and restful ‘haven’ when they are off duty. I was longing to improve my living room, so I applied, not really expecting anything.

When I heard I’d been chosen, I was over the moon. I knew this would make a big difference, and give me a ‘happy place’ to relax with Ariella. It was lovely to have something exciting to look forward to.

Style file

Over several weeks through lockdown, I chatted over Zoom and email with DH4H interior designers Fiona Duke and Julia Alexander. They made me feel relaxed as we discussed my decorative tastes and what I needed to make the living room work better. Julia and Fiona then reached out to contacts in their interior design networks and

companies keen to support the charity.

They put together mood boards with a vision for the scheme, including everything from paint to flooring and furniture. At the same time, they were sorting out the practical side of the installation. I like bright colours and a clean modern feel, and I loved the big, jade green sofa they suggested. It’s the anchor piece of the room and everything else was chosen from there.

Problem solvers

I settled on a lovely pale blue-green wall colour and grey laminate flooring, so the room would feel light and fresh. Lack of storage, especially for toys, had been a problem, but I liked the big baskets Fiona and Julia recommended, as they make it easy for Ariella to help tidy up. I’d also wanted a small eating area, and the

NOVEMBER 2021 | 81

COVER STORY

‘I painted the walls, ceiling and skirting in the same colour, as it has more impact and I didn’t worry about getting perfectly straight edges’

GET COMFY

‘I’m thrilled with my new sofa – it’s so roomy and comfortable.

Luckily, it comes apart so it could be brought inside’

‘THE ARTWORKS POP OUT AND BREAK UP THE WALLS. THEY ADD COLOUR AND PERSONALITY AND MAKE THE ROOM FEEL FINISHED’ designers came up with a neat little table and two chairs that fit perfectly in one of the alcoves. On the other side, they added stylish shelves for books, plants and a few personal bits. Their expertise really made the most of my space.

Hands on

The first task was to lay the laminate floor.

I cleared the space, ready for the fitting, which was taken care of by volunteer DH4H contractors. Once it was down, I painted the room. I was so grateful for everything and it was important to me to feel that I was involved and making a contribution to the project. The layout of the room had been carefully planned, so when the furniture was delivered everything came together smoothly.

Finishing line

Volunteer DH4H tradespeople came to fit the window blinds and hang the mirror and artwork for me, which completed the transformation. Ariella and I are in here all the time now, and its comfortable, bright and homely. I can’t wait for when friends and family can come and enjoy it with us. I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone involved.

For more information about DH4H, go to designhavensforheroes.org.uk.

82 | NOVEMBER 2021

CHARITY MAKEOVER

Love it

IDEA TO STEAL

‘Opt for open shelving to create a light, spacious feel’

GORGEOUS GIFTS

‘DH4H even gave me some pampering presents, so I feel really special’

Noble Oak laminate flooring, Carpetright.

Iggy four-seater sofa in Jade Smart Velvet, Sofa.com. Walls and ceiling painted in Welmish Blew emulsion, Edward Bulmer. Oculus linen magic screen roller blind; Penrith Roman blind in Duck Egg, both Blinds2Go. Alice oak dining table; for similar dining chairs, try Reymond dining chairs set of two; Dendron 120 shelving units; Faustino storage ottoman; Annifer accent mirror; Hobbs lamp base; Aspen empire lamp shade; Bizz Zig Zag Green pendant shade; Yellow and Black Abstract Circles art print; Cranes An’Ei Period art print; Faversham velvet cushion covers in Teal and Mustard Yellow; Symple Stuff cushion inserts; Rodolfo tufted wool rug, all Wayfair. Holden throw, Made.

Arbroath storage baskets, Neptune.

Bouquet, Freddie’s Flowers. Bath gift set, London Bathers. Skin mask gift set, Skimono. Black Bamboo hanging floor lamp, George Home

SHOW TIME

‘I like the contemporary design of my display shelves, and two side-by-side fit the space exactly. They came flat-packed and I assembled them with no problem’

Find more clever ideas to style up your home by going to pinterest.com/ styleathomemag

FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY PHOTOGRAPHS ANNA STATHAKI

Where to buy Vanessa’s style

NOVEMBER 2021 | 83

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‘We relocated IDEA TO STEAL

‘Use wallpaper in a design that picks up on the colour scheme’

WOODEN WONDER

‘Old potter’s boards for the worktops and shelving give the kitchen an aged feel’

COME ON IN!

ABOUT ME I’m Sabrina Hannan, 38, a medical rep, and I live with my husband, David Giles, 56, who is a photographer, in a three-bedroom 400-year-oldcottage in Hertfordshire, which we moved into in July 2019.

THE CHALLENGE To create a rustic kitchen with a vintage vibe in a large blank space.

MY WISHLIST A gas range cooker, somewhere to sit for casual dining, an injection of dramatic colour, some attractive wallpaper and a few French touches.

86 | NOVEMBER 2021

Buy it Shop Sabrina’s style PAGE 91

KITCHEN MAKEOVER

Love it

OUR KITCHEN’ VINTAGE VIBE

‘By moving the kitchen to this larger room, we created our own more sociable space with a scheme that fitted in with the age of the house. Now it’s the heart of the home’

Convinced that the existing kitchen was in the wrong place entirely, Sabrina create a new one from scratch

I

n our view, the existing kitchen that we inherited with the cottage was in the wrong place. A cooker was jammed in one corner, and the units were spread out along the back wall, which made it feel like a long thin corridor.

It wasn’t a relaxing space to be in, and there was nowhere to sit and chat. At the other end of the house was a doublewidth room with two windows and doors out onto the garden. And it made much more sense to have the kitchen in there.

First moves

We sold the existing, modern-look units on eBay and then Amberth made and fitted our new kitchen. The company is a husband and wife team that we had used before. We had to be pretty sure of what we wanted early on, so they could make sure all the electrics and plumbing were in the right place. We wanted the sink to be under the window, and we definitely wanted a breakfast bar, so we drew everything out to our design.

Colour choices

The units are a classic design, in keeping with the age of the house, but we wanted to paint them a vibrant colour. We chose the blue from an RAL paint chart; our local pub has smart blue and white toile crockery, so that inspired us too.

Reuse and recycle

TOTAL

£10,037 TURN OVER FOR MY SHOPPING LIST

We knew the kitchen would take us close to the budget we’d set, so we thought hard about what we could save. We already had a large white fridge freezer, a dishwasher and some white high stools we’d brought from our old house, so it made sense to stick with the blue and white theme. We wanted a dual fuel retro range cooker with a wok burner, as we cook a lot. And we were thrilled to find exactly what we’d been looking

NOVEMBER 2021 | 87

Make it!

VINTAGE WOODEN WORKTOPS Measure the space carefully and draw a detailed diagram before starting to work out how many boards you might need.

Find the sort of boards you want, such as potter’s boards or scaffolding, and consider the width and depth if you don’t want the worksurface to be too deep.

Collectors’ fairs, car-boot sales, builders’ merchants and eBay are all good places to start.

Create a plywood base to stick the boards onto and then attach the whole thing, rather than sticking the boards on one by one.

If the boards aren’t an exact fit, make sure the one at the front is the full width, and cut the one at the back where it won’t show.

Apply a stain over the boards once they’re in position. Sabrina used a hard wax oil in Walnut, which also protects the wood.

LIGHTEN UP

‘The beams were in a dark stain, so I painted them white in one section and a blue in the other’

for at DeLonghi at a good price. We also found a white chimney fan on eBay, so that was the appliances sorted.

FEATURE STEPHANIE SMITH PHOTOGRAPHS DAVID GILES

French chic

I was determined we were going to use the chandelier we’d brought with us for a touch of French style, and it works perfectly with the high beamed ceiling.

We did a lot of the painting ourselves to save money, and David tiled the splashback with white brick tiles left over from the bathroom. Having been obsessed with the toile crockery at the pub, I searched on the internet for blue toile wallpaper, and covered two walls with it to provide contrast with the white.

Lockdown woes

We had some hairy moments with delays to supplies, and then the kitchen fitters got Covid and we had to isolate, but it gave us time to do all the little bits we needed to do. Under the direction of

88 | NOVEMBER 2021

Amberth, David made the worktops out of old boards, which make the kitchen look as though it’s been there for ages. I made the half curtains at the windows, with fabric from eBay. Lockdown did add some time to the project; it took 12 weeks in the end, but it was worth it.

Final touches

A wooden floor wasn’t possible, because of existing underfloor heating, so we went for white tiles which look like floorboards, cosied up with a rug. We also displayed our old Cornishware and other blue and white crockery we’d picked up over time.

We’re thrilled with the overall result; it looks like it’s always been there.‘ You can discover more handy tips on creating a smart kitchen-diner at idealhome.co.uk

LARDER LOVE

‘Our antique cupboard was factored into the new kitchen plan and, painted blue, it fits right in’

KITCHEN MAKEOVER

Love it

COOKER CHOICE

‘We looked for a long time to find the right vintage-style range in white, which ran on calor gas as we’re out in the countryside. We got there in the end’

PROTECT WALLS

‘The original brick walls have been covered with a wipe-clean, hardwearing white paint’

‘MIX IN ANOTHER TONE, SUCH AS PINK, IF YOU HAVE A LOT OF ONE COLOUR IN YOUR SCHEME’ LACE LAYERS

‘I made the lace half-curtains which add to the French style and give us privacy’

Where to buy Sabrina’s style

Bespoke units, £7,000; worktops and shelf boards, £500, all Amberth.

Vintage Style range cooker, £1,299, DeLonghi. Smeg Victoria cooker hood, £200; fabric, £40, both eBay. Ralph Lauren Fern Toile wallpaper, £62.40 a roll, Wallpaperdirect. Dartrey floor tiles, £60sq m, Topps Tiles. Beams painted in James intelligent eggshell, £68 for 2.5ltr, Little Greene. Walls painted in Strong White modern eggshell, £73 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball. Brackets, £13 each, Yesterhome. Rangemaster sink, £274, Plumbworld. Belmore tap, £68, B&Q. Eliot rug, £88.95, Benuta.

Tea towels, £2.99 each, Nisbets

NOVEMBER 2021 | 89

Do it

OOD-STYLE FLOORING

Sabrina’s choice:

WOOD-STYLE FLOORING Inspired by Sabrina’s realistic wood-look flooring? Find out how to fake it with flair

What are the benefits?

Kitchens are high-traffic areas and kitchen floors come into contact with water, steam and food spillages. Wood-look flooring is all about achieving the beauty of natural wood but without any maintenance issues.

Excellent stain resistance is a key benefit, there’s no need to regularly treat with wax or oil, and it’s less likely to fade or discolour over time. Many wood-look floors also come with slip-resistant finishes and can be used with underfloor heating.

Porcelain or ceramic?

Although they often look the same, and both can be used on the floor, porcelain

BEST FOR… CREATIVE INSPIRATION

Amtico’s wood-look vinyl floor tiles can be laid in multiple directions, with borders and motifs, for something really different.

GRAIN TEXTURE

Forbo’s Marmoleum Modular Textura flooring comes in ‘wood grain’ and ‘saw cut’ textures to effectively mimic natural wood grain.

PLENTY OF CHOICE

Karndean’s Inspired by Wood vinyl flooring collection has 145 colours to tempt you, including the latest lime-wash and driftwood trends.

tiles are denser and less porous than ceramic so will be more hard wearing.

Porcelain is also suitable for outdoor use, which can provide a seamless transition if your kitchen opens onto the garden. Look for a Porcelain Enamel Institute rating (PEI rating) of at least three; four or five is preferable.

Is vinyl better than linoleum?

Not better, just different. Vinyl is a man-made material, available in sheet or tile format. It can often be laid by a skilled DIYer – look for pre-coated vinyl that has the adhesive built in – removing installation costs from your budget.

Linoleum is made from natural components like linseed oil, tree resin and pigments. Again, it comes in sheet or tile format but professional installation is required. Both come in a wide variety of wood-look designs, but the colour goes right through linoleum (vinyl is a printed surface pattern), giving it a longer lifespan.

How can I make it more realistic?

Both vinyl and ceramic/porcelain tiles are available in authentic plank-like shapes and designed to be installed in a similar way to a planked floor.

Also look for flooring with realistic wood-grain textures, which feel like real wood for an extra tactile dimension.

‘WOOD-EFFECT FLOORING LOOKS ALMOST IDENTICAL TO THE REAL THING, AND IT’S EASY TO CARE FOR TOO’ RUTH CORBETT, HOUSES EDITOR

90 | NOVEMBER 2021

3 of the best

WOOD-EFFECT TILES HARD WEARING

Made from durable porcelain. Nyans Island white wood effect tiles, £39.95sq m, Walls and Floors

LUXURY VINYL TILES Ideal for heavy-traffic areas. Offcut Art flooring, £29.95sq m, Lifestyle Floors

PRACTICAL PORCELAIN Suitable for floors and walls. Natural wood-effect tiles, £49.95sq m, Original Style

FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON

W

ood-look flooring brings warmth and character to any room, and is available in ceramic, porcelain, vinyl and linoleum. Recent improvements in photographic and texturing technology are boosting authenticity, making wood-look flooring a really credible and stylish alternative to the real thing.

NOSTALGIC BLUES

Buy it

Buy Sabrina’s style…

NOSTALGIC BLUES Mix timeless styles with classic blue and white designs

RETRO STYLE

Get the Cornishware look with this set of four Coastal stoneware blue mugs, £12, ProCook

Pick antique-inspired fixtures.

Cooke & Lewis Belmore nickel-effect kitchen side level tap, £68, B&Q

Prettify walls with a ditsy floral print.

Boughs and Butterflies in Inky Blue, £35.95 a roll, Galerie at Wallpaper Direct

Finish your breakfast bar with this classic design. Spindle bar stool in Lily White, £240, Garden Trading

Create a glamorous focal point with this Capella Empire chandelier, £90, Habitat

Serve friends afternoon tea in this cute Blue Arden small teapot, £66, Burleigh

Place this round pink casserole dish pride of place on your stove, £49.99, Amazon

Keep loaves fresh in this retro steel bread bin in Grey, £35, Dunelm

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

BLUE BEAUTY

Give your kitchen a vintage feel.

Medallion fade rug in Blue, £100, John Lewis & Partners

NOVEMBER 2021 | 91

SPLASH OF INTEREST

‘I’ve added colour and pattern with towels, ceramics and glassware.

I love the subtle character they bring’

‘It’s boutique

COME ON IN!

ABOUT ME I’m Lucy Searle and I live here with my husband David and our children Lola, 19, and Edie, 14, in a three-bedroom terraced house in north London.

This is now the ninth bathroom I’ve renovated!

MY CHALLENGE Ripping up the carpet and rejigging the layout, all the while sourcing attractive, low-cost items as we were doing up the rest of the house at the same time.

MY WISH LIST I wanted to achieve a vintage-style boutique look on a budget. A stylish roll-top bath and plenty of storage that didn’t feel too fitted were also must-haves.

92 | NOVEMBER 2021

TOTAL

£3,931 TURN OVER FOR MY SHOPPING LIST

BATHROOM MAKEOVER

Love it

ON A BUDGET!’ HANG ABOUT

‘I try to repurpose old fittings when we move house. These wooden hooks were used for hanging coats in the hallway of our old home’

Lucy and David shopped around to create a stylish vintage-inspired bathroom without breaking the bank

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IDEA TO STEAL

‘An elegant chair next to the tub adds an extra level of luxury’

e bought the house from a lovely couple who had lived here for 30 years,’ says Lucy.

‘Every room was packed with a lifetime of stuff and children’s toys, but we were charmed by its proportions, and especially those of the main bathroom.

First impression

With numerous photos lining the walls, bath toys in one corner and a changing table hiding a gorgeous Victorian-style radiator, the bathroom needed work.

Despite the clutter, I could see the room’s potential. The window is huge, so the room is very bright. I knew that if we changed the layout, we’d give the room much more breathing space and turn it from a hectic family bathroom into a light, airy haven.

Getting to work

We gutted the room and considered how to make the most of the space. Luckily, we were already installing a shower room in another part of the house, and there’s a separate loo next to this bathroom. It meant we could afford to pare the room right down to just a bath and basin.

Having so little feels totally luxurious and makes it such a relaxing place to unwind.

Smart shopping

It’s lucky we only needed a few key pieces, because we certainly didn’t have an endless budget. We renovated the rest of the house at the same time, so keeping costs low was crucial. I spent a lot of time on the internet comparing prices of the roll-top bath I wanted to take centre stage. I always try to put the bath centrally against a wall. Doing so gives the room a grand look, even if it’s been achieved on a budget. Eventually, I settled on this slipper bath. The price was right at £300, and I thought its

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COOL STORAGE

‘Towels and linens are hidden inside a 1930s fridge. It’s lead-lined so incredibly heavy – we had to cut off its feet to get it into the room’

shape would look great against the backdrop of metro tiles I’d spotted at B&Q. Everything else just followed easily.

Antique finds

When it came to the design, I wanted to go for a vintage look and chose fixtures and fittings that felt in keeping with the era of the house. While the bathroom was being gutted, I shopped for a vanity table and cabinet. We needed storage but I didn’t want fitted units. Trawling the antiques markets in Hastings and Rye one day I struck gold, finding an old altar table for the basin to sit on and a 1930s fridge for our linen and towels. I love how they work in the space – no one else has a bathroom like it.

Lessons learned

Despite this being the ninth bathroom I’ve renovated, it wasn’t all plain sailing this time around. Original, restored floorboards look wonderful and can cope with splashing if they’re well varnished, but the very occasional leak has found its way into the room below. Next time I’d put down a sub-floor first. Crucially, roll-top baths need to be screwed to the floor – especially if you have young children who like to climb and sit on them while they’re filling. Ours tipped a couple of times before we learned that lesson!’

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IDEA TO STEAL

MIRACLE WORKER

‘The basin stand used to be an altar table, rescued from a dilapidated church. We gave it three coats of yacht varnish to protect it from splashes’

‘Coat the floorboards with watered down white emulsion before varnishing them’

BATHROOM MAKEOVER

Love it

TREND SETTER

Do it!

SPLASH-PROOF WOOD FLOORS To best protect beautiful bathroom wood flooring, avoid softwoods sensitive to humidity and opt for the safer choices of oak, teak or ash.

Make sure that the floor and sub-floor are perfectly levelled to avoid water pooling in lower areas.

Treat floors with water-resistant yacht varnish. Apply in the same direction as the grain.

Ensure regular ventilation of the bathroom, as mould and mildew love organic wood, so keep windows open after a steamy bath.

Lay a strategically-placed rug in high-splash areas, such as by the washbasin and bath tub.

‘The cast-iron radiator is the only fitting from the original bathroom to survive the renovation’

SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL –IN E SO SE OUR CASE IT WAS THE O ORIGIN I INAL AL CAST IRON RADIATOR – TO SET THE TONE FOR THE REST OF THE SCHEME’ ‘I positioned the bath centrally against the wall to give it a grand look’

Similar slipper freestanding bath, £329; Edward bath shower mixer, £99, Contour Designer countertop basin, £69, all Bathrooms.com. Edwards & Co taps and upstands, £218, Old Fashioned Bathrooms. For similar console table, try Etsy. Similar cast iron radiator, around £480, Holloways of Ludlow. Metro white tiles, £24.50sq m, Topps Tiles.

Cabinet, £250, Wishbarn Antiques.

Wirework tiered storage basket, £75, Cox & Cox. Chair, Rockett St George; for similar try their blonde rattan chair, £275. For similar wooden hooks, try Melcombe peg rail, £25, Duck Barn Interiors. Similar rug, £70, Habitat. Similar white mirror, £40, Nordic House.

Similar tear-shaped beaded pendant light, £115, Graham & Green. Window shutter, around £500, Hillarys.

Asunden laundry basket, £40; Dragan wooden boxes, £10 for four-piece bathroom set, all Ikea

Buy it Shop this artisan cool look PAGE 97

Find more tips on creating a traditionalstyle bathroom at idealhome.co.uk

FEATURE GEORGIE RODGERS STYLING LUCY SEARLE PHOTOGRAPHS COLIN POOLE

CENTRE-STAGE

Where to buy Lucy’s style

NOVEMBER 2021 | 95

Do it

REJIGGING THE LAYOUT R

Lucy’s choice:

REJIGGING THE LAYOUT Ace your bathroom with a practical, space-maximising new design

Where do I begin?

Start by thinking about who will be using the bathroom, as this may have a large bearing on the layout and scheme you finally choose. Is it to be an en-suite shower room for two? Or a family bathroom that will require a bath and plenty of storage for essentials and toys?

Can I move the loo?

It’s cheaper and easier to keep the loo close to the soil stack (the vertical pipe that takes waste from the loo to the main drain). It is possible to divert pipework, but keep the run short to avoid blockages.

BEST FOR… MEASURING UP Planmybathroom.diy.com is B&Q’s easy tool for trying out a few layouts. Just tap in the room’s measurements, add fittings and view in 2D, 3D, or have a 360° tour.

EASY ACCESS The Pocket Door Company supplies doors that slide away into a gap in the wall instead of opening from a hinge – useful when space is tight.

NEAT STORAGE SOLUTIONS Crosswater has a huge range of cabinets and storage furniture, both wall-mounted and freestanding. Careful storage planning allows you to make the most of the space available.

Where should I put the bath?

Give the tub prime position, in a central spot (if there’s room) or in front of a window. If you can’t fit in a freestanding bath, a back-to-wall style still looks luxurious. Check that the flooring will take the weight if you’re fitting a cast-iron design.

What should I consider if moving the shower?

A new drain and plumbing supply will have to be carefully planned and connected. The direction the floor joists run will determine how easy it is to fit a low-level shower tray and divert pipework. The thickness of the walls and whether they are brick, block or studwork affects the type of shower valve that can be used.

SLIPPER BATHS

Could a wet room work?

Expert drainage and tanking (waterproofing) is a must to make it leakproof.

Different methods of installation depend on whether your floor is concrete or wood.

Consider fitting a glass screen to prevent the loo or washbasin getting splashed.

TIMELESS STYLE

With a choice of feet.

Bombay freestanding single-ended roll top slipper bath, £499, Wickes

Essential planning tips?

Allow space around fixtures and ensure there is enough elbow room at the basin. A space-making solution for small bathrooms includes re-hanging a door to open the other way, or installing a sliding door.

WORK OUT THE BEST POSITION FOR THE BATH AS IT CAN DOMINATE THE SPACE AND OBSTRUCT THE OTHER FITTINGS’ RUTH CORBETT, CORBETT HOUSES EDITOR

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3 of the best

MODERN TAKE

Reinforced with fibreglass. Richmond slipper bath, £499, Bathroom Mountain

ROLL TOP

Double-ended style.

Trafalgar slipper bath, £699.95, Victorian Plumbing

FEATURE CAROLINE RODRIGUES

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he right layout can make or break a bathroom. Draw up a scale plan or use an online planner, and don’t forget to ask your plumber or bathroom company to check your design is suitable for the space.

ARTISAN COOL

Buy it

Buy Lucy’s style…

ARTISAN COOL Update a white bathroom with vibrant blues and lush greenery

FEATURE LISA FAZZANI

FAUX FOLIAGE

Add shine with polished chrome fittings.

Belmont traditional apron rose shower head with arm, £59.95, Victorian Plumbing

Create a wall of pretty artwork.

Butterfly pink poster, £12.95 (unframed), Desenio

Arrange greenery at different heights. Trailing floral in pot, £10, Habitat

Swap a damp mat for natural wood.

Southbourne duck board, £50, Garden Trading

Make a statement with a modern chair.

Black metal rounded wire chair, £209, La Redoute

Work in colourful pops on shelves and surfaces. Pepparkorn vase, £12, Ikea

Put the focus on the floor with striking tiles. Optiks tiles, £49.98sq m, Topps Tiles

Tidy away towels and toiletries.

Large water hyacinth basket, £16, Primark

Bring in extra colour with plush blue towels. Prism Poolside hand towels, £9 each, Christy

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Enjoy an eco-friendly ELECTRIC SHOWER Refresh and rejuvenate with a shower as efficient as it is stylish

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nergising in the morning, relaxing in the evening… there’s nothing like a satisfying shower experience to boost your mood.

Even more so when you know it’s stylish, efficient and cost-effective, too. Add cutting-edge technology into the mix, and you can rest assured an electric shower from Triton will quickly become your happy place.

Triton’s stylish designs suit every shower or bathroom

Clean conscience

So why choose an electric shower? Unlike other types, it heats water on demand.

No more waiting around for a thin, lukewarm drizzle to run hot, which means considerably less water wasted overall… better for the environment, not to mention your water bills. What’s more, heating water on demand makes an electric shower more energy efficient as there is less hot water wastage compared with a mixer shower that would rely on a conventional boiler.

Shower in style

You won’t be compromising on good looks either, thanks to Triton’s extensive range of outstanding designs. Whether you’re refitting your family bathroom or designing a dreamy new en-suite, Triton has the shower for you – the range of finishes that’s available includes white gloss, brushed steel and matt black, so you can choose the perfect look for your home. And innovative, user-friendly features, such as touch controls, illuminated buttons and precise digital temperature readings, ensure they’re super-easy to use, too.

WHERE TO BUY

‘WITH A RANGE OF FINISHES INCLUDING WHITE GLOSS, BRUSHED STEEL AND MATT BLAC YOU’RE SURE TO FIND THE PERFECT SHOWER’

WORDS TARA KING

For more inspiration, explore the entire collection at tritonshowers.co.uk

INSIDE EAT, TRY & DO!

GREAT STUFF TO

SMART HOME SOLUTIONS

TIDY TIPS

CRAFT IDEAS PECAN TREACLE TART TAKES 1 HR 40 MINS SERVES 8

FEATURE ROSE FOOKS PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

325g pack ready-rolled shortcrust pastry 200ml golden syrup 200ml maple syrup 275ml double cream 100g fresh white breadcrumbs 2tbsp lemon juice 1tsp vanilla extract 60g pecan halves Creme fraiche, to serve YOU WILL NEED 23cm loose based tart tin Baking parchment Baking beans

1

Heat the oven to 200C/ Gas 6. Unroll the pastry, lay over the tin and ease it gently into the edges. Chill for 20 mins.

Line the pastry case with baking parchment and fill with baking beans.

Blind bake for 15 mins.

Remove the beans and parchment, trim the edges, then bake for a further 5 mins. Remove the tart case from the oven and reduce the temperature to 160C/Gas 3.

Put the syrups, cream and ½tsp sea salt in a saucepan. Heat gently and stir until the mixture has a smooth consistency. Stir in the breadcrumbs, lemon juice and vanilla. Pour into the pastry case.

Arrange the pecans on top of the tart and bake for 50 mins to 1 hr until set.

Cool for 10 mins before serving warm with a dollop of creme fraiche.

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4

PERFECT PUD

UCK IN TO COMFORT FOOD

4 TOP DIY NEWS

p107 HAVE A GO CANDLE-MAKING

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Find a smart

SOLUTION Genius ways to make everyday tidying, cooking and organising easier…

DRINK MORE WATER (AND SAVE ON PLASTIC) Evian has just launched a striking new water dispenser that reduces plastic packaging by up to 60% (compared, per litre of water, to a 1.5ltr bottle). The dispenser is smart enough to sit on your worktop, while the ‘bubbles’ of water (which cost £7.99 for two 5ltr bubbles) collapse as you drink the water making it easy to recycle.

Evian (re)new water dispenser, £40, Tesco

O BUY! SIGN UP TO RENT FURNITURE FROM E YOU BEFORE TRY BEFO JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS FOR A SET PERIOD, THEN IF YOU STILL LOVE IT, YOU CAN BUY IT AT A REDUCED PRICE .

If your family tends to charge their smartphones and tablets in the kitchen, try this super simple charging dock, which is easily installed over your existing outlet. As it’s a Qi charger, Qi enabled tech can charge wirelessly. Just pop it on the handy shelf and it’ll start charging right away. No wires, no faff, no fuss.

Kit Qi wall charger, £49.99, Amazon

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3 of the best

GPS TRACKERS

Find lost keys, wallets or even the dog with these handy gadgets

EASY DOES IT

The AirTag uses the 1.65 billion Apple devices in the world to give you a precise fix on its location. AirTags, from £29, Apple

HANDY HELPER

Clip onto keys, then link to your smartphone via the companion app and you’ll find anything lost in a jiff. Pro Tile, £29.99, Tile

TOP TRACKER

This tracker will sound an alarm when you tell the app that you’ve lost it. Curve in Grey, £30 plus a monthly subscription, Vodafone

FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI

Charge your tech wirelessly

TIME AT HOME

Combat winter gloom Make mornings in wintertime just that little bit more bearable thanks to the gentle waking alarm clock by Lumie. Part table lamp, part alarm clock, it uses light to simulate the sunrise half an hour before your alarm, helping to wake you up naturally. Choose from a traditional beep sound for the alarm or pick birdsong, purring kitten or even tree frogs for a more soothing wake-up call.

Lumie Sunrise Alarm Wake Up to Daylight table lamp, £39.99, John Lewis & Partners

MOVE OVER EBAY AND GUMTREE, THERE’S A NEW MARKETPLACE IN TOWN. ON NARCHIE, , YOU CAN BUY OR SELL BRAND NEW OR WELL-LOVED HOMEWARE AND FURNITURE VIA THE NEW APP.(NARCHIE.COM)

RAKE IT UP Clear those annoying fallen autumn leaves in a flash from your lawn, patio or driveway with the oh-so clever Clear ‘N’ Collect leaf rake.

This clever two-piece gadget turns your arms into two big scoops, allowing you to gather a huge bunch of leaves in every swoop making it easy on your back.

Clear ‘N’ Collect leaf rake, £24.99, Clear ‘N’ Collect

Do it

3 of the best SOFAS IN A BOX

These stylish sofas come in pieces so they fit through the narrowest of spaces

GREAT VALUE

Available in four shades – two with dark wooden legs, two with light.

Hyett sofa in Soft Marl Petrol Blue, £425, Next Home

MID-CENTURY VIBE

In a two- or three-seater size, this sofa is delivered in three easy-tomove boxes. Model 02 three-seater sofa in Elephant velvet, £1,195, Swyft

SUPER SOFT

This cosy, compact sofa comes in a choice of seven delicious colourways.

Small Biggie two-seater sofa in Midnight Blue, £1,079, Snug

REVAMP YOUR RADS Whether your tired radiators need updating or you’re replacing your entire heating system, you’ll want to swap the old with something that won’t date so easily. Well, you can’t get more classic and timeless as Best Heating’s super smart white Milano range. Available in a choice of sizes, these radiators slot in beautifully with any style of scheme.

Milano Windsor white traditional horizontal double column radiator with feet, from £204.95 for H60xW60.5cm, Best Heating

Block out the cold If those kitsch sausage dog draft excluders aren’t your bag, check out these gorgeous new velvet designs that will keep out the cold. Available in Yellow, Blue, Blush, Grey, Teal and Coral, or in striped or plain linen.

Draught excluders, £35 each, Graham and Green

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TIME AT HOME

Do it

The 10-minute

DECLUTTER

Get the place tidy in a flash with these speedy tips and handy buys

ULTIMATE SHELFIE

Organise everything from pens to plants in your home office or study space.

Metal desk shelf, £16, Matalan

SPOTS & DOTS

This set of two Earthtones dots fabric baskets are just the thing for stashing bits and bobs around the home, £10, Very

SLEEK SCANDI

Save space in a bathroom with this tall bamboo ladder shelf featuring a round hanging mirror, £50, Habitat

Ready,steady,sort!

MAKE WAY FOR SANTA CLAUS Christmas around the corner means an influx of new toys, so have a sort out, either selling or donating items to charity.

BE PREPARED FOR A COLD SNAP Replace lightweight jackets for winter coats on hooks and keep hats, scarves and gloves in baskets for frosty mornings.

LOOKING FLY

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

Ensure necklaces, bracelets and earrings stay pristine and tangle free. Bee jewellery hanger, £24, Ella James

HAPPY HOUR

Gather your favourite tipples and cocktailmaking kit ready for gin o’clock. Asta Barrington gin tray, £20, Daisy Park

AUDIT YOUR MAKE-UP DRAWER It’s almost party season, so sort through your make-up bag, throwing away anything past its best.

TO THE WIRE

File your copies of Style at Home by your fave reading spot. Folding brass wire magazine rack, £30, Heavenly Homes and Gardens

STAY TUNED

Add a touch of whimsy and nostalgia with this candy coloured retro TV storage stand in Pink, £65, Red Candy

LAUNDRY DAY

Keep these Kari cotton travel bags handy for overnight stays or for separating delicates in the wash basket, £22.50, Oliver Bonas

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TIME AT HOME T

3 of the best…

RADIATOR COVERS

CLASSIC STYLE

Fully adjustable in traditional white. Richmond medium radiator cabinet in White, £100, Homebase

MODERN SLATS

A simple slatted front in a modern tone. Austin small radiator cover in Grey, £75, Habitat

STRIKING PALMS

Celebrate mid-century design

Garden City in Bramble, £76 a roll, MissPrint

This autumn, statement wallpaper brand MissPrint has launched its new Signature Collection, celebrating its most iconic designs with a hand-picked selection of favourite prints. The new range showcases MissPrint’s mid-century and Scandi influences with 10 designs reimagined in fresh new colourways and metallic finishes. Inspired by London’s tree-lined streets, Garden City (right) has been recoloured in this cosy palette that’s perfect for creating a warm and homely feel.

DO IT

Botanical vibes in a dark hue.

Verdure radiator cover in Black, £70, Screen with Envy

yourself

The latest need-to-knows to help you improve your home BRING STAR STYLE TO YOUR BATHROOM

Memphis tiles, £48.90sq m, Ca’ Pietra

Add a touch of celestial magic to your kitchen or bathroom with Ca’ Pietra’s new tile collection. Named after Elvis Presley’s home city, the Memphis range is sure to lend star quality to both walls and floors, inside and out.

The 20cm square porcelain tiles have a handmade encaustic feel and come in six colourways, including Denim, Khaki and Coral. Use them to update a splashback behind the basin or blow the budget on floor-to-ceiling wow.

CHOOSE THE RIGHTGRADEOF SANDPAPER -COARSETO MEDIUM GRIT(40-80)FOR REMOVING BUILT-UP PAINT AND FINE GRIT (150-180) FOR CREATING A SURFACE KEY 104 | NOVEMBER 2021

Lick x Kelly Hoppen Timeless Neutrals in Palette 04, £38 for 2.5ltr, Lick

Create a balanced look Interiors legend Kelly Hoppen has teamed up with paint brand Lick to launch Timeless Neutrals – a collection of six new paint colours created to act as ‘neutralisers’ in any scheme. Kelly says: ‘The palette offers a truly timeless appeal that will work with every home design. My favourite is Beige 05, a beautiful soft linen shade which pairs so well with fabrics.’

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

Do it

TIME AT HOME

How to bleed

Do it

YOUR RADIATORS

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Make sure your heating is working to the max to keep your home toasty and your energy bills low

eady or not, winter is on its way, bringing frosty nights and crisp mornings. Now’s the time to check your central heating and make sure your radiators are working efficiently. It’s easier than you think!

Astute double horizontal radiator, £348, Vogue

YOU WILL NEED Radiator key or screwdriver Small bowl or tray Towel for drips

1

DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM

Turn all your radiators up to maximum temperature. When they’re hot, assess each one by carefully touching the top and bottom to check whether there are inconsistencies in warmth. Cool spots mean that there could be air trapped inside the radiator, and this needs to be let out for it to work efficiently.

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TURN OFF YOUR HEATING

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USE A RADIATOR KEY OR SCREWDRIVER

Let the radiators cool down completely before you begin to bleed them. If you don’t, you’re at risk of being scalded or losing too much water.

Place a bowl or tray underneath the radiator ready to catch any water and keep a towel handy for drips. Fit the radiator key into the square bit in the centre of the valve at the top. If this has a groove you can also use a screwdriver.

Use the towel to catch any drips, then twist the key or screwdriver slowly anti-clockwise to allow air out.

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT

4

3 of the best

RADIATOR KEYS

RELEASE THE TRAPPED AIR

You should hear the air escaping – when this subsides or water starts to come out, tighten the valve again quickly.

Work your way around your home, bleeding each radiator in turn.

5

MOST BOILER MANUFACTURERS HAVE ONLINE TUTORIALS ON BLEEDING RADIATORS, CHECKING PRESSURE AND OTHER HANDY TIPS

SWITCH YOUR CENTRAL HEATING BACK ON

Check the pressure gauge on your boiler.

It should be between 1.5 and 2 bar. If the pressure is too low, you’ll need to top it up using the lever or tap on your boiler.

Check the handbook for more details.

‘Radiators need bleeding if they’re taking extra time to heat up or are colder at the top than at the bottom.’

SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR Stephanie Durrant

TOP TWISTER

Plumbsure metal radiator key, £2.29, B&Q

BASIC BUY Easy Grip radiator key, £1, Wilko

MULTI TOOL

Bahco nine-way radiator and services cabinet key, £21.99, Screwfix

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Achieve a FLAWLESS FINISH Put up wallpaper using decorating tools from Harris Trim wallpaper using Harris Seriously Good Paperhanging Knife

Wallpaper any room with ease using Harris decorating tools

Do your prep

The first steps in any wallpapering project are protection and preparation. Mess and spills are inevitable, so invest in some Harris Seriously Good Dust Sheets to protect floors and surfaces before you start.

Prepping walls comes next, from removing old wallpaper to sanding smooth any uneven surfaces. Harris has all the essentials, such as stripping knives and sponges, plus sanding blocks and masking tape.

Choose quality kit

As with all decorating projects, using quality tools is the key to achieving first-class results. Harris decorating tools are packed with clever design elements

‘HARRIS HAS TOOLS TO SUIT EVERY WALLPAPERING JOB, FROM PREPARATION AND PROTECTION TO STRIPPING OLD WALLPAPER OR HANGING NEW’ to make tasks easier and quicker, from the Seriously Good Paperhanging Brush with its super-soft tips for smoothing out wallpaper, to the Seriously Good Paperhanging Scissors with extra-long blades for more accurate cutting. And to make selection a doddle, all Harris decorating tools are task-specific with colour-coded packaging so you know which is best for which task – for example, blue for wallpapering.

Get expert advice

While having the right tools for the job is half the battle, expert know-how can be invaluable when tackling a DIY task for the first time or if you hit a snag.

Pick up lots of useful ideas, tips and how-tos by following Harris on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter @Harrisbrushes and Instagram harrisbrushes_uk

WHERE TO BUY

Harris wallpapering and decorating tools are available to buy at DIY stores – or visit harrisbrushes.com to find your nearest stockist; you’ll also discover plenty of expert advice, whatever DIY project you’re tackling.

WORDS LISA FAZZANI

W

allpaper is one of the easiest ways to give any room a new look, whether it’s a statement floral, sophisticated stripe or a flamboyant feature wall. While choosing wallpaper is the fun part, achieving a perfect finish can be trickier, which is where the experts at Harris come in.

Achieve a super-smooth finish with the Harris Seriously Good Paperhanging Brush

TIME AT HOME

Make it

Conscious crafting It’s important for all of us to take a moment of quiet now and again, and quilting is the perfect antidote to an anxious mind and body. In Conscious Crafts: Quilting (£12.99, Quarto), author Elli Beaven has designed 20 inspiring projects to reconnect head, heart and hands. Alongside useful tools and techniques, there are beautiful makes for stitchers of all skill levels, from simple homeware such as curtains, coasters and cushions to heirloom patchwork quilts.

FANCY FLAME

Luxury candle-making starter kit, £35, London Luxury Candle Supplies

THE SHOW GOES ON… Piece shapes together to make this stylish coaster cushion

MAKE IT

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH (SHOW) DANIEL GRAVES PHOTOGRAPHY

yourself Check out the latest workshops, books and making must-haves

3 of the best

CANDLE-MAKING KITS RELAX AND RECOUP

Revive & Unwind soy candlemaking kit, from £28, Hazel & Blue at Etsy

HAPPY HIVE

Simply Make Beeswax candle-making kit, £14.99, Prezzybox

TRY YOUR HAND AT… CANDLE-MAKING Who doesn’t love a glowing candle, especially come winter – what better way to soothe the senses and set a cosy mood? Making your own is a great way to experiment with shapes, colours and scents. The basic ingredients are wax (paraffin, beeswax or soy), which usually comes as granules

If you’re itching to get back to being around fellow makers and can’t wait to get up close and personal with your favourite craft materials, then be sure to head to one of ICHF’s face-to-face crafting events this winter.

The Creative Craft Show returns to Birmingham’s NEC from 4-7 November, brimming with shopping, workshops and demos of a plethora of hobbies and crafts. While there, drop into Cake International at the same venue for no extra cost. Book tickets at ichfevents.co.uk.

Eco Resin Terrazzo soy candle-making kit, £34, Hazel & Blue at Notonthe HighStreet.com

that are then melted, and a wick, which comes ready-made depending on the size and type of candle you’re making.

Dyes and fragrances can also be added to the melted wax. Lastly, pick a container. Go classic with a tin or glass, or think outside the box with just about anything that’s heatproof and watertight.

INCLUDING NATURAL ESSENTIAL OILS IN YOUR CANDLES WILL MAKE YOUR HOME SMELL WONDERFUL NOVEMBER 2021 | 107

WINDOW SEAT Seat and blind, Dulcet in Old White, £44.95m; cushions, Linen Union in Old White, £39.95m, both Annie Sloan

Do it

THIS MONTH’S

Do it

FEATURE STEPHANIE DURRANT PHOTOGRAPH ANNIE SLOAN

To create a stylish window seat, cut a piece of thick foam to fit your bench and cover with upholstery fabric. Fold neatly at the corners to make a seat cushion. Make a matching Roman blind and sew an easy envelope-back cushion.

Style a cosy reading nook

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COMFORT DISHES For a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate try these delicious recipes – they’re guaranteed to banish the chill!

BOWL FILLER

CREAMY CIDER CHICKEN CASSEROLE TAKES 1 HR 15 MINS SERVES 4 2 chicken breasts, halved 4 chicken drumsticks, skin removed 25g butter 4 rashers streaky bacon, chopped 8 shallots, peeled 3 sticks celery, chopped 2 eating apples, cut into wedges 300ml cider or apple juice 500ml chicken stock 1tbsp thickening granules 100ml creme fraiche 2tbsp Dijon mustard 2tbsp tarragon

1

Heat the oven to 190C/Gas 5. Season the chicken. Melt the butter in a large, flameproof

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casserole dish and fry the chicken for 10 mins, turning to brown all over.

Add the bacon, shallots, celery and apples.

Cook for a few mins. Remove apples and add cider and stock. Bring to the boil, cover and cook in the oven for 40 mins until the chicken is tender.

Transfer to the hob and add the thickening granules and apple, creme fraiche, mustard and tarragon to the casserole. Bring to the boil, stir and simmer for 3 mins, until the sauce thickens. Serve with a side of mashed potato.

2 3

TIME AT HOME

Cook it

BEAN & VEG STEW TAKES 1 HR 45 MINS, PLUS OVERNIGHT SOAKING SERVES 6

ALL IN ONE

1tbsp oil 2 onions, chopped 4 garlic cloves, crushed 1 red chilli, finely chopped 2-3 star anise 1 cinnamon stick 250g dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight 500ml vegetable stock 5 sprigs of thyme 150g dried apricots, roughly chopped 150g potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks 450g sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks 450g butternut squash, peeled, cut into chunks 1½tsp rose harissa paste Large handful of parsley, chopped

1

Heat the oil in a large casserole. Cook the onions for 5 mins. Add the garlic, chilli, star anise and cinnamon, and cook for another min.

Drain and rinse the beans, then add along with the stock, thyme and apricots. Bring to the boil, then simmer, cover and cook for 1 hr 15 mins.

Next add the veg with more water if needed. Bring back to the boil and simmer for 20 mins. Season, and stir through the harissa and parsley to serve.

2 3

MAKING IN ADVANCE WIL L ENHANCE ALL THE FLAVOURS SAUSAGE PAPPARDELLE TAKES 30 MINS SERVES 4 400g pork and fennel sausages 2tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 1 fennel bulb, cut into wedges (reserve a few leaves to garnish) 1 onion, diced 2tsp fennel seeds, bashed in a pestle and mortar 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1tsp chilli flakes 3 rosemary sprigs, chopped 450g fresh pappardelle or tagliatelle 150ml white wine Zest of 1 lemon 45g Parmesan, grated

1

Squeeze the meat from the sausages into a bowl. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the fennel for a few mins until coloured. Add the meat and onion, stirring often, and cook for 10 mins, until the meat is browned. Add the fennel seeds, garlic, chilli and rosemary, and cook for 1 min.

Meanwhile, cook the pappardelle according to the pack instructions.

Add the wine to the meat mixture and allow to reduce for a few mins.

Add the lemon zest and reduce the heat. Toss through the cooked pasta and serve with Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil and the reserved fennel leaves.

2 3 4

QUICK & EASY

FONDUE FOR TWO TAKES 1 HR SERVES 2

GET DIPPING!

20g unsalted butter 1 garlic clove, crushed 25ml kirsch 300ml dry white wine 100g each Comté and Emmental cheeses 100g Beaufort or Gruyère cheese ½tsp nutmeg Stale bread cut into chunks, plus assorted crudités, to serve

1

Melt the butter in a heavy-based pan or fondue pot over a medium-low heat. Add the garlic and stir for 5 mins.

Pour in the kirsch and increase the heat to reduce the liquid by half.

Add half the wine and, once steaming, reduce the heat to medium-low.

Add a small handful of Comté to the pot and mix until melted completely, then add a small handful of Emmental.

Once melted, add a handful of Beaufort or Gruyère. Mix constantly, adding and melting a small handful of cheese at a time until you have used half of each of the cheeses. By now, all the cheeses will have melted well to make a smooth, thick sauce.

Add the remaining wine and the nutmeg, then add the rest of the cheeses, a little at a time, stirring and allowing each inclusion to melt completely until smooth.

Take the fondue to the table and serve with crudités and bread.

Use forks or fondue sticks to dip.

2 3 4 5

6

DIP

V YOU FANCY – CRUDITES, CURED MEAT OR SIMPLY BREAD

VIETNAMESE CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP LIGHT & SPICY

TAKES 1 HR 45 MINS SERVES 2 300g chicken thighs, bone in 900ml chicken stock 1tbsp fish sauce 2 lemongrass sticks, bruised 2 garlic cloves, bruised 4cm piece of ginger, peeled and sliced 2 red chillies, deseeded and sliced 100g rice noodles 60g pak choi, halved 75g bean sprouts Small handful each of coriander leaves and mint leaves 1 lime, quartered

1

Remove the skin from the chicken and trim off excess fat, then carefully remove the bones.

Pour the stock into a deep pan. Add the chicken bones, fish sauce, lemongrass, garlic, ginger and half the chilli.

2

3 4

Bring to the boil, then turn down to a simmer and cover for 1 hr to infuse.

Add the chicken for 15 mins, until cooked through, then remove all the ingredients from the soup with a slotted spoon and allow to cool.

Once cooled, shred the chicken and set it aside.

Bring the soup back to a boil and add the noodles. Cook for 8 mins, adding the chicken for 2 more mins until the noodles are tender.

Divide the chicken, noodles and pak choi between 2 bowls and pour over the soup. Top with bean sprouts, coriander, mint and the remaining chilli. Squeeze over the lime juice to serve.

5

6

TIME AT HOME

Cook it

MINESTRONE SOUP TAKES 50 MINS SERVES 4 ½tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 3 sticks celery, chopped 2 carrots, diced 1 small leek, halved vertically, washed and finely sliced 100g cavolo nero, central stalks removed, leaves shredded 1tbsp tomato purée 400g can cannellini beans, drained 400g can chopped tomatoes 800ml hot chicken stock Sprig of rosemary 100g conchigliette or vermicelli pasta 50g Grana Padano cheese, finely grated, plus rind

1

Heat the oil in a pan over a medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots and leek. Stir and put the lid on, then leave to sweat for 10 mins.

Mix in the cavolo nero, tomato purée and beans, then pour over the chopped tomatoes and stock.

Bring to the boil. Add the rosemary, reduce to a simmer with the lid on for 20 mins.

Add the pasta and the cheese rind and cook for a further 20 mins, still with the lid on.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve topped with the grated cheese.

2 FILLING SOUP

3 4

NOVEMBER 2021 | 113

STICKY TREACLE TOFFEE PUDDINGS TAKES 1 HR 15 MINS MAKES 6 150g salted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing pudding basins 100g light muscovado sugar 3 large free-range eggs 2tbsp black treacle 150g self-raising flour ¾tsp bicarbonate of soda 125g pitted dates, chopped 75g chopped walnuts FOR THE SAUCE 150g light muscovado sugar 100g butter 125ml double cream 25g chopped walnuts Cream, to serve YOU WILL NEED 6x150ml lidded pudding basins, greased

SWEET PUD

1

Whisk the butter and sugar until fluffy.

Beat in the eggs and treacle. Sift flour and bicarbonate of soda and fold in.

Add the dates and walnuts. Divide between basins, leaving 1cm gap at top.

Secure lids and put into a steamer over boiling water. Steam for 40-50 mins.

For the sauce, gently heat the sugar and butter until dissolved.

Add the cream and walnuts, and heat for 1 min without boiling.

Loosen the puddings using a butter knife; invert onto plates and pour over the sauce. Serve with cream.

2 3

PUMPKIN AND SAGE PIE TAKES 50 MINS, PLUS CHILLING SERVES 4 200g parsnips, peeled and cut into large chunks 500g pumpkin or butternut squash, peeled and cut into large chunks 1tbsp olive oil 200g shortcrust pastry 200g ricotta cheese 30g unsalted butter 2 garlic cloves, crushed Pinch of chilli flakes (optional) 6-12 sage leaves 30g blanched hazelnuts 1 egg, beaten 16cm chef’s ring or springform cake tin without the base, greased

1 TASTE OF AUTUMN

Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Season the parsnip and pumpkin generously and toss in the oil. Spread out on an oven tray and bake for 12-15 mins.

Meanwhile, roll out the pastry to 1cm thick, then

2

cut into a 20cm round and set on a baking sheet. Spread the ricotta in the centre, leaving a 4cm border.

Heat the butter in a frying pan over a medium-low heat, along with the garlic, chilli flakes, sage and hazelnuts, mix well and cook for 1-2 mins.

Mix in the cooked pumpkin and parsnip. Then pile the mixture on top of the ricotta.

Brush the edges with egg and pull into the centre to create a roughly fluted-edged pie. Use the chef’s ring, or tin, to hold the pie in place. Chill for 30 mins. Bake for 20 mins.

Carefully remove the chef’s ring, or tin, brush the pastry with egg and bake for another 10-15 mins until the pastry is crisp and golden.

3

4 5

FEATURE ROSE FOOKS RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

YOU CAN BUY MINI PUDDING BASINS FROM LAKELAND

TIME AT HOME

Cook it

COCONUT JAM TRAYBAKE TAKES 1 HR 10 MINS SERVES 18 250g potatoes, peeled and chopped 1tbsp milk 250g butter, at room temperature 250g golden caster sugar 3 large eggs 1tbsp vanilla extract 250g gluten-free self-raising flour 6tbsp strawberry jam 2tbsp desiccated coconut YOU WILL NEED 18x28cm tin, greased and lined

1

Heat the oven to 180C/Gas 4.

Put the potatoes into a heatproof bowl with 175ml water and microwave on High for 10 mins, until tender (alternatively, boil the potatoes in a pan).

Drain the potatoes, add the milk and mash until smooth.

Cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. Fold in the flour and mashed potato.

Spoon into the prepared tin and bake for 45 mins, until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Spread the jam over the top of the warm sponge and sprinkle with coconut.

Serve the traybake warm or cool cut into 18 squares.

2 3

4 5 6

GLUTEN FREE

NOVEMBER 2021 | 115

TIME AT HOME

Cheat’s eats

Get creative with your favourite ingredients on Pizza Express pizza dough

Transform your kitchen into a pizzeria with easy-to-use dough from Pizza Express.

You can buy it either pre-rolled into a base, or in a ball – perfect for practising your flinging skills. Experiment with your favourite toppings, whether you’re a fan of the classics or fancy mixing it up; we blitzed passata with anchovies and olives, topped with mozzarella and torn basil leaves – delicious!

Pizza Express pizza dough, from £1.75 for 400g, Asda and Tesco.

WINE NOT

GUT TO BE GOOD

Supermarket

Flavourful vodka made from surplus grapes and other by-products of winemaking.

Discarded vodka, £29 for 70cl, Waitrose

NEWS

The most scrumptious spreads and tasty treats in your trolley this month

3 of the best

SUSTAINABLE SPIRITS MILKING IT

FEATURE ROSE FOOKS

This ready-to-drink cocktail contains vodka that’s made from milk… It’s worth a shot.

Black Cow Negroni, 50cl, £25, Ocado

GET WASTED

Cook it

Made with the ‘wibbly wobbly’ fruit that would otherwise have gone to waste. Penrhos Hibiscus Botanical gin, £17.99 for 70cl, Aldi click & collect

Slow down For delicious winter warmers, nothing beats the Crockpot® – just toss in everything and leave it cooking away. But if a recipe calls for ingredients to be seared first, it’s a bit of a faff to fry them in a separate pan. Now with the new Sizzle & Stew Crockpot®, you can remove the bowl and use it as a pan on the hob, then return it to the base for slowcooked meals. Simple – and no additional washing up.

We are loving these new tangy Kefir Smoothies from Müller. Similar to yoghurt, kefir is made from milk and special cultures, and fermented creating loads of bacteria that are good for a healthy gut. The addition of natural fruit juice – mango and orange or raspberry and pomegranate – makes these extra yummy.

Plus they are low fat, so are great for breakfast or drinking on the go. £1.30 for 312ml, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Spar and Morrisons.

Sizzle & Stew Crockpot®, from £35 for 3.5ltr, Waitrose and Amazon

FERRERO ROCHER BALLS HAVE BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO A BAR IN A CHOICE OF WHITE, MILK OR DARK CHOCOLATE. £2 FOR 90G, TESCO NOVEMBER 2021 | 117

ESSENTIAL CONTACTS

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161 MARSH WALL, LONDON E14 9AP To get in touch, our email format is firstname.lastname@futurenet.com EDITORIAL Editorial Director, Future Homes Sarah Spiteri Editor Heather Young Group Creative Director Georgia Hibberdine Group Chief Sub-Editor/Production Editor Sarah Farley Editorial Director, Homes Content Rhoda Parry Associate Editor Ginevra Benedetti Style Editor Michela Colling Houses Editor Ruth Corbett Decorating Editor Nicky Phillips Senior Features Editor Stephanie Durrant Features Editor Holly Walsh Acting Features Editor Lisa Fazzani Food Editor Rose Fooks Gardens Editor Teresa Conway Group Art Director Alison Walter Art Editor Meredith Davies Senior Designer Chris McPhail Head Of Subs Operations Maxine Clarke Chief Sub-Editor Amy Hodge Senior Sub-Editor Linda Blakemore Senior Sub-Editor Catherine Law DIGITAL Brand Development Director Laura Crombie Video Producer Matt Gibbs Editor in Chief - Homes Audience Amy Cutmore Editor in Chief - eCommerce Lindsey Davis Editor in Chief - News Rebecca Knight Digital Shopping Editor Tamara Kelly PRODUCTION Editorial Production Manager Nicola Tillman Art Production Designers Noel Allen, Sarah Llewellyn Senior Production Controller Barry Skinner Senior Production Manager Matt Eglinton Production Manager John Botten 0330 390 7509 MARKETING Head of Marketing Sian Cupid Deputy Head of Marketing Laura Timms CIRCULATION Circulation Manager Katie Greenan

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NOVEMBER 2021 | 121

Buy it

110 UNDER £10 FAUX COSY

EVER LASTING Rust dried wheatgrass, £10 a bunch, Rose & Grey

SOFT TOUCH

Fur cushion, £7, George Home

COMFORT FOOD

Two-tone Spot nibble bowl, £3, Habitat

0

TOASTY TOES

Hedgehogs socks, £9, Sophie Allport

UNDER £10 EARTHY GLAZE

Reactive Green vase, £8, Next

Turn up the heat with cosy tones and winter warmers

TAKE A SIP

Beno ceramic mug, £10, Oliver Bonas

SHARING PLATTER

Fascinera board, £10, Ikea

WEAVE IN Maize basket in White, £10, Dunelm

Cream oil burner, £4.50, Primark

SWEET TREAT! GINGER SPICE

Stem ginger-infused honey, £18, National Trust Shop

122 | NOVEMBER 2021

FEATURE LISA FAZZANI

AND RELAX...

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