★★★★
2 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
Welcome summer into your home S
poppy, buttercup yellow and PRING has well and succulent blueberry. truly sprung and Don’t be afraid to be vibrant. summer is just around The good thing about decorating the corner. What better with splashes of colour is that way to celebrate these you can chuck it at everything – lighter, warmer days than by from walls, to sofas, carpets, sprucing up your home? clocks and chandeliers. Browse through home At this time of year it’s nice to decorating magazines or take a help bring the outside in, look around the high street and whether with an airy farmhouse you’ll see a range of designs and kitchen or new French doors trends that really show off the opening your dining room up to colours and decorations of the garden beyond. summer. And remember, redecorating Floral patterns are big, and refreshing whether they be doesn’t have to adorning wallpapers, begin and end inside soft furnishings or the house. This is a crockery. There is time of year when also an interesting you’ll be taking to related trend that the garden more and focuses on birds and more. Keep it tidy bugs. While, you can and make your last understand that preparations for the having designs summer. Don’t inspired by creepyforget to purchase crawlies wouldn’t be any items you might everybody’s cup of STICK ’em up: With need for summer tea, they are certainly decorative wall entertaining out there if you so stickers it's easy to because it’s almost desire... create a new look, barbeque season! But bright, bold use available from Rose & It’s also a good of colour is perhaps time to complete the main design trend Grey any work on the for the moment. outside of your property – Certainly inspired by summer hues, it’s a perfect opportunity to anything from fixing loose guttering to a full-blown replace those drab greys and extension. browns with rich grassy greens Back inside the house, does and floral shades like violet, red
your hallway make for a grand entrance to the property? Does it make your home seem welcoming? They’re often neglected areas, but your porch, hall and staircase deserve some TLC too. The stairs and rooms in your house require certain flooring types in order to complete your desired look. Whether you opt for carpets, tiling, laminates, rugs or natural wood is up to you! Bedrooms are a good place to let your creativity run wild. Make sure you tackle the guest bedrooms too and let the kids help out with fun ideas when you’re redecorating in their rooms. Make a splash in the bathroom with the latest showers and suites and, down in the lounge, get ahead of the game by looking at fireplaces now, in good time for autumn. With the world going increasingly gadget-crazy check out the latest home technology available, from TVs and Blu-Ray players, to kitchen appliances and security systems. While you’re at it, declutter a spare room and you could set it up as a comfortable and sophisticated home office. There’s real potential right now for restyling, refreshing and redecorating in every room of the house. So unleash your creativity and bring the summer into your home.
NOT JUST FOR KIDS: This Charlotte's Web Wallpaper would look great in a stylish garden room, from www.Digetex.com
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BRIGHT IDEAS: The Brilliant Brights Cameo room design, left, from Dunelm Mill, really brings the vibrant colours of the garden into your home, while this cute owl wallpaper, from Rose & Grey, has a sweetly nostalgic feel
NEWS 3
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
Create the right first impression W
LIGHT WORK: Use a bold light fitting, like this one from Sweetpea & Willow, to create a focal point in your hallway
E all know the value of dressing well and making a good first impression as we all tend to form opinions based on what we see in those first few seconds and, when it comes to our homes, the same rules apply. After all, if you walked up to a house and the front garden was overgrown, the porch was tatty and the hallway was littered with piles of post – you wouldn’t think too highly of the house or the owner’s housekeeping skills, would you?
LUCKY NUMBER: Give your front door a fresh coat of paint and add potted bushes and a bespoke house number, from Purlfrost Window Film, help make a good first impression
NEAT IDEA: Clever storage solutions, like this wall organiser from All Up and On, keep hallways and porches free from clutter
So if you want your home to give a good first impression and visitors to feel welcome as soon as they step through the door, it’s worth paying some attention to the entrance areas. As the first part of your property that people see, it’s important that your front exterior is well presented and has that all-important kerb appeal. So, tidy up your front garden, give your garage and front door a fresh lick of paint and have your driveway freshly laid if it’s covered with broken flags or oil stains from your last car. Finishing touches like a bespoke house number plaque, pretty hanging baskets and contemporary pot plants can also help to make your front door area much more attractive and appealing to visitors. Inside the house, porches and hallways can often be a dumping ground for the family’s coats, shoes and bags. So, if you’re keen to impress visitors when they walk in, it’s essential to find ways to store essential items out of sight. Coats and jackets can be difficult to keep tidy in a busy family home, so if you have the room, it may be worth creating a built-in cloaks cupboard. Likewise, it’s well worth investing in savvy storage solutions like umbrella stands, coat racks and utility/boot trays to keep your hallway free from clutter. Or, to create a focal point in your hall, look for a stylish hall table or unit, complete with handy drawers or baskets, where you can store keys, post, small change and the like. As well as being packed with everyday clutter, hallways are often small, narrow cramped areas. So, to create the impression of more space in this confined part of your house, decorate in neutral colours, opt for
RUSTIC: Country-style homes are always stylish, so mix heritage colours with white and rattan furniture, from Argos, for a modern take on the classic trend heavy-duty hard flooring, ensure hall tables aren’t too big and use well-placed mirrors to help boost the sense of space. Using long, narrow hall runners or rugs can also help to make your hall feel longer and, if you’re keen to ensure your home always makes a grand entrance, opt for a statement light fitting. As most halls house staircases, it is important to integrate flooring
decisions so that the hall and stairs match. Similar care should be taken with your walls and runners, to create a consistency of style and feel as you move upstairs. Accessories like a personalised door mat, a vase of beautiful fresh flowers on your hall table and a stylish coat stand that doubles up as a piece of art, can also go a long way to making your entrance much more attractive and welcoming.
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4 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
DRESS IT UP TIME TO REFLECT: Add a touch of class to any boudoir with an ornate mirror from Sweetpea & Willow
THERE’S nothing quite like the feeling of retreating to your bedroom at the end of a long hard day. And with these gorgeous accessories, you’ll never want to leave ... RELAX: A purple vase from Asda, bedding from Matalan or warm-toned lamp from Littlewoods.com add the finishing touches
SPELL IT OUT: Lilac letters from Asda that say it all
SLEEP TIGHT: With a bit of careful thought and some hard work, that beautiful bedroom could be yours. This colonial-feel bedroom was styled using products from Barker and Stonehouse
... and so to bed
W
HEN it comes to our health and happiness, there's little more important than getting a good night's sleep and the decor of your bedroom plays a big part in this. From the colour scheme and layout of the furniture to the furnishings and bedding, each stage is as important as the next and, if chosen correctly, can help create a calm and restful ambience. For master bedrooms, the focus should be on creating your own oasis of tranquility and there are an overwhelming range of styles, suites, furnishings and accessories to choose between. From decadent boudoirs with solidwood sleigh beds and deep lavenderhued purples, to light and spacious bedrooms complemented by pretty pastels and chic, French-inspired furniture, it is essential to create somewhere that you will look forward to retreating to at the end of a long, hard day. Fitted wardrobes, dressing rooms and en-suite bathrooms are also well worth installing, if you have both the space and budget, and are the pièce de résistance when it comes to creating that dream master suite. Children’s bedrooms are also an essential part of the home – not to mention one of the most fun to decorate – and there's so much to choose from. For inspiration, try thinking about your child's favourite cartoon or hobby, or simply take a look around the shops where you'll find dozens of bright, child-friendly bedroom suites and accessories to suit every age group. Items such as cosy rugs, bean bags, funky light fittings and desk lamps are all essential requirements and, as most children's bedrooms will probably double up as a playroom, so too are a plentiful supply of toy boxes and a desk. As for beds, space-saving
HAVEN: Plan your bedroom carefully and you could create a beautiful space where you'll love to retreat, like this one from Marks & Spencer bunk beds or cabin beds are ideal for more compact rooms. Plus, don’t forget that there are also a great range of paints, stencils and wall stickers to add those finishing touches. However, if you're little monkeys aren't so little anymore, perhaps it's time to consider swapping that Peppa Pig wallpaper and cramped single bed for something more grown up? From mirrored wardrobes and a dressing table for your fashion-conscious daughter, to a trendy boys room complete with ample shelving and stands to house their TV, computer consoles, stack of CDs, DVDs and games, there's something to suit even the fussiest teenager.
Spare bedrooms also deserve a touch of TLC and should be a shining example for visiting family and friends. Keep the decor simple with warm, neutral paints in fresh shades of pale lemon, cream or magnolia and finish with a smattering of colourcoordinated accessories, as well as pictures and softly glowing bedside lamps to create a welcoming atmosphere. As it probably won’t be used very often, there’s no need to over-crowd the room with furniture either. A simple wardrobe, chest of drawers, bedside table and mirror will suffice for any guest. Whichever room you want to tackle, a bit of hard work will see you achieve the bedroom of your dreams.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
NEWS 5
Homestyle 2011
Tripping the light fantastic! B
E it stylish lamps, funky spotlights or over-sized chandeliers, the right lighting can transform your home. And, according to interior insiders, 2011 is going to be THE year to show off your big and beautiful fixtures. An important part of any room, picking the best lighting can be a
tricky task but, with a bit of careful planning and consideration, there's no need to be daunted. Perhaps you want to replace that old strip lighting in your kitchen? Or maybe you're revamping the lounge and need a new lamp to complement the décor? Whatever it is, you'll find a fabulous selection of lighting to suit every home. For the year ahead there are a number of key trends set to emerge, and colours range from acid brights to deep metals. In living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms, pendant lights are great for creating a bold focal point, while glamorous chandeliers are an excellent way to add instant luxury to a room. However, if you feel a full-size chandelier is a tad too much, you
STRIKING: Lighting isn't just practical, lamps, like this one from Next, can be a stylish addition to any room
could always plump for a chandelet. A small, beaded version of its full-size counterpart, chandelets are a brilliant option for those that want to complement their room's décor without taking over the entire space. In kitchens and bathrooms, it's modern track lighting that's predicted to soar in popularity. Already one of the best selling lights, track lighting is both stylish and versatile and works especially well on high or vaulted ceilings. Look out for an added twist of 'hidden' tracks in this year's designs too. Sconces and wall lightings are also extremely popular. Not only are they space saving, but they can also add visual effects, warmth and depth to a room. Opt for either futuristic and modern or retro and antique and be bold with your choice. Like the other lighting trends for this year, bear in mind that they should still make an impact – subtlety is no longer considered an art form! If you don't want – or can't afford – to change your central light fittings, how about investing in a large lamp? From oversized industrial chrome spotlights, to an ornate 5ft
standard Rococo-style lamp in fuchsia pink, lamps can help to create a warm, welcoming glow and you'll find something to fit in with every colour scheme. Of course, lights still need to be practical but, with a huge range of styles to choose between, it's easy to combine functionality and fashion to get the best of both worlds. Whatever type of lighting you're looking for, transform your home into a shining beacon of style this spring.
BOLD: Make a style statement with lighting in 2011 with a light from the Chandelier & Mirror Company Ltd
BRIGHT SPARKS: Lighting for this season is all about creating a big impact and you can’t fail to impress with a colourful chandelier from The Contemporary Home
MODERN: Add instant style to your living room with a contemporary floor lamp like this one from Leather Sofas Online
6 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
NEAT: You can fit a stylish bath, like this Cora Bath From Bc Designs, into the smallest of spaces
All steamed up over G
ET the water running, nice and hot, then sink in and unwind in the comfort of a sumptuous new bath, while you lie back and survey your
MODERNIST: Go all futuristic with a cutting edge bathroom from Merlyn Industries
beautiful bathroom suite. That’s the dream you have to keep in mind if you’re planning to rip out the old and install the new, when it comes to bathroom design. Working on a new
bathroom can be a hassle, especially as the family bathroom is an essential part of your household’s morning preparations. But if you employ a reliable team of plumbers and bathroom fitters then it
shouldn’t take too long before your new bathroom is ready to enjoy. And it’s worth keeping in mind that, at the end of the process, you’ll be able to soak in a relaxing bathtub and luxuriate in your new
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
NEWS 7
Homestyle 2011
ELEGANT: Recreate the opulence of another era but with the sophistication of modern technology, like a stunning shower from Merlyn Industries and floor tiles from Better Bathrooms
latest bathroom chic
surroundings. So, what’s popular right now in terms of bathroom design? Well the colourful design trend that is affecting most rooms of the house has also popped up in the bathroom, as has the
popularity of natural materials. One very important trend is that fixtures within the bathroom be eco-friendly. So showers should be energy efficient and toilets should save on water used. Similarly, bathtubs are increasingly eco-friendly. There are some innovative new acrylic bathtubs with built-in LED lights. LED light fittings are proving increasingly popular in the bathroom. They are ultra-energy efficient and look great. Modern bathtubs can be fitted with sensor driven control systems that help regulate water temperature and pressure which can save up to 60% of water. A very stylish way to save the planet. The same sensor technology can be used in sinks to set the water temperature at the correct level for you, so saving the need to run the tap and waste water. The sensors can even let you know if you are wasting water. Continuing the environmentally-friendly theme, energy and water saving whirlpools and showers are trendy options
LIGHT SHOWER: Add another dimension to showering with an LED fixed showerhead from Frontline Bathrooms for this spring. Alternatively, top-of-therange modern showers are also available that offer spinal and foot massage with water jets, aromatherapy and ozone therapy. Sounds very luxurious. Materials proving popular in bathrooms fixtures and accessories for 2011 include items made from eco-friendly materials, plus glass, stainless steel and wood. In order to protect wooden flooring and bathroom furniture, moisture-resistant finishes are increasingly being used. Other interesting possible additions to your
bathroom include installing a bathroom heater. These are specifically designed for the bathroom and can ensure the temperature in the bathroom is set just right for your personal preference. After all, there’s nothing worse than getting out of the shower and finding the rest of the room is just too cold for you! Last but not least, put the finishing touches to your bathroom with colourful floral tiles, heated towel rails and a stylish bathroom cabinet. Take some or all of these design ideas and combine to make the perfect bathroom. Then just lie back and enjoy it.
8 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011 UNIQUE: Enjoy the Onda range, a unique 'curvy' kitchen, from www.rational.de or, combine quality and style in a Cooke & Lewis Appleby kitchen, second right, from B&Q
SLEEK: Ultramodern kitchens now come in a range of colours and styles at Taskers
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I
drawers, drawers as fridges, plug sockets that pop up from the worksurfaces – these are just a few of the wonderful additions you can choose from. Team these with built-in appliances enclosed in the cupboard space and you’ll soon have a sleek and stylish kitchen you’ll love – and everyone else will too! Even the good old hob has come on in leaps and bounds. Of course, it’s still there when you need it for simply boiling an egg, but now there are interactive touch controls to turn your hob on, some have specialist hobs for your wok, while others have a teppanyaki-style flat plate, all designed to give any budding chefs plenty of options when it comes to cooking. Over-sized oven hoods that create a dramatic focal point are also trying to take centre stage this season, full of inspiring and funky designs. When it comes to storage, high-gloss units are all on trend at the moment and, even though we’ve seen these around for a couple of years, now we’re seeing a wider range of colours, including deep purples through to a wooden-look. The high shine gives your kitchen a chic, modern look, especially when complemented with tiled walls and flooring to complete GLOSS FINISH: High gloss units make a great impact creating a modern, sleek look and the finished effect. T’S the hub of the home, the place you cook, eat and socialise, so your kitchen needs to reflect your personality and be a space you truly love. Kitchens can come in all shapes and sizes, now more so than ever, whether you want sleek, curved countertops, high-gloss floor-toceiling cupboards or solid, chunky, wooden units. Your ideal kitchen depends on your personal tastes but, nowadays, there are plenty of ingenious ideas that may be worth considering if you’re getting a new kitchen. Cupboards with swivel shelving, soft-close cupboards, upright, slim-line cupboards that pull out like
the range at Taskers offers plenty of choice
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
NEWS 9
Homestyle 2011
IN THE SHADE: Even your cooker hood can make an impact, such as this stunning 'lamp shade' island cooker hood from Electrolux
TURNING JAPANESE: Indulge in Oriental-style cooking with help from this 'Teppan Yaki' Crystal Line from AEG There are a wide selection of worksurfaces you can choose from, whether you opt for the higher priced, yet stunning granite surfaces made with 100% solid stone, maybe the wooden butcher’s block-style, or the more affordable laminate worktops. Corian worksurfaces have also become popular, made using crushed stone mixed with acrylic resin and colour pigments, it means the surface has a warmer feel to it than granite or quartz and can be moulded and formed into curved shapes, including fully integrated sinks. Think about your lifestyle and make a note of what you use your kitchen for, then sit down with an experienced kitchen designer to discuss your needs. Do you enjoy cooking and entertaining friends? Will it be open-plan to a dining area or family room? Are you styleconscious and like focal design points and the latest technology? Whatever your requirements, a good designer should be able to plan your kitchen to enhance your home and make life easier. No kitchen is complete though without those fabulous ‘accessories’. Everything from coffee machines and hand blenders to smoothie makers
and, not forgetting the king of them all, the kettle! When it comes to appliances, shoppers are heading in two completely different directions. There are those opting for seamless, almost hidden, integrated appliances – with black the sought after shade – or those who want to show off their appliances, wowing with funky bright colours such as blue and red. No matter what you choose, most importantly ensure all your accessories complement each other as well as your whole kitchen style. Even appliances have stepped up their game with rapid-boil kettles and fridges that ‘alarm’ you when you’ve left them open. You can now even get Pop Art toasters that brighten up your morning routine creating a picture on your toast, what more could you ask for? So, if you’re planning on buying a new kitchen there are plenty of options available to ensure your dream comes true.
ACCESSORISE: Hide your treats in this James Tanner blue biscuit canister from Matalan; brighten your kitchen with a DeLonghi Icona kettle, below, or Espresso/ Cappuccino maker, inset, facing page, from Marks & Spencer and littlewoods.com respectively
10 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
CUTE: Brighten up your child's bedroom with a funky rug from Mamas and Papas
RUG-GED CHARM
TRADITIONAL: Vintage florals are a big trend in home interiors this year and Marks & Spencer have some pretty offerings
RUGS can add instant style to any room and are a great way to create a real statement. Available in a wealth of shapes, shades and prices it’s important to remember what purpose the rug is for – is it to add warmth, create a visual effect or protect flooring? – before making your choice. Here’s a selection of some the most stylish offerings this spring...
COSY: Rugs, like this one from B&Q, can bring colour and warmth to a room
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How the right floor can make a room I
N years gone by, it's fair to say that choosing the flooring for your home was a fairly simple job. Carpet was normally reserved for the lounge, dining room and bedrooms, with lino or tiles de rigueur for the bathroom and kitchen. But, fast forward a few decades and times have undoubtedly changed – never has there been so much choice in flooring or has flooring been so versatile. From real hardwood floors, stylish laminate, quality tiles and plush carpets, to practical vinyl, today's home-owners are spoilt for choice with a fantastic selection to choose between. Leading the way for 2011, hard flooring such as tiles, hardwood and laminates remain firm favourites amongst home-owners and, thanks to their durability, ease of cleaning and good looks, it’s no surprise why. 'Green' flooring is another trend that continues to grow, and one of the most eco-friendly options – as well as the cheapest – is restoring and varnishing existing floorboards. However, flooring like cork and bamboo as well as sustainable wool carpets and natural linoleum are also great eco-friendly options and ensure that there's no need to compromise style for substance. In addition to this, rugs remain extremely popular and are an easy
CHOICE: There is a huge range of floorings to choose from nowadays, like this Krono Wasabi Oak flooring from Taskers way to bring colour or style into a room. Of course, carpet will always be a sought after choice for many homeowners and the feel of thick, soft carpet cushioning your feet will never grow old. Trends in carpets this year are moving towards softer, textured and more luxurious looks, and don’t worry if you need some help fitting it, there is sure to be a great local carpet fitter in your area. Whichever type of flooring you prefer, it’s crucial to choose a style and material that’s suitable for your home and your family’s lifestyle. It’s not just about appearance though and, ultimately, you need to
make sure that the flooring you choose is suitable for the room. In entrance halls and staircases, which are subject to a lot of wear and tear, opt for high-density pile carpets, designed especially for heavy domestic use or highly durable tiled flooring or solid wood. Flooring can set the tone, feel and warmth to a room so while a plush cream cosy carpet may be heaven in your bedroom it might not be as great in the hall where dirty shoes are too close for comfort. So whether you’re on a tight budget, want all-out luxury or to become eco-friendly, you’re sure to find the perfect flooring for you.
NEWS 11
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
PATTERNS: A stylish rug, like this one from Mac&Mac Interiors, adds warmth to the home GET THE LOOK: The right flooring, whether attractive rugs, stripped and stained floorboards and eye-catching stair carpets, from a range at John Lewis, can add the finishing touches to a home
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12 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
Come outside S
UMMER is the best time for enjoying your garden. You’ve done the hard work, clearing up the fallen leaves of autumn, then protected your plants and lawn as best you can during the winter. Once spring arrives you know you’re free of the frosts that blight flowers and plants, so it’s the right time to really get your garden into gear; the final step of preparation towards summer – the time when you really get to enjoy your garden. With the begonias and buddleia blooming, its time for you to grab those lawn chairs, get yourself a cool drink and just sit upon your freshly-mown lawn. If all has worked out, you’ll be delighted by the sight of butterflies, thrill to the thrum of bees and relax with the burble of a water fountain. The summer garden has a delightful fragrance to accompany the colourful sights and sounds around you. Hopefully it will be warm too, so you can either stretch out on your own and catch some rays or gather friends and family to enjoy the garden together. Summer’s not quite here yet, but it is just around the corner. If you’re not fully prepared, there’s still time to work out what your garden needs – and get buying it. It makes sense to have
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SPRING INTO ACTION
AS the temperature hots up, we are noticing the first signs of spring, with daffodils waving hello and pretty blossoms adorning the trees. April is a really good month to get started on the garden, with lots of showers and sunshine on the horizon – as long as we don’t get any late frosts, which under this currant climate would hardly be surprising! Keen gardeners will no doubt have been cultivating an array of indoor-sown seeds and will be itching to plant them outdoors. It’s time to tackle those borders and have a good spring clean, getting rid of any weeds or plants that didn’t make it over the winter, and preparing the soil for sowing seeds by lightly forking over borders and adding a little compost. Right now you can sow hardy annual, grass and herb seeds and plant herbaceous perennials, evergreen hedges, evergreen shrubs and trees, aquatic plants, alpines, pansies and violas. You can prune existing perennials, established conifers, fig trees and early flowering shrubs, and tie in climbing and rambling roses and give them a good feed. Divide bamboos and water lilies and give pond plants an overall, re-organising and repotting if necessary. Slugs and snails can wreak havoc among foliage, flowers and seedlings at this time of year. To help beat these troublesome pests, try to encourage wildlife in your garden, as some birds, frogs, toads, hedgehogs, slow-worms and ground beetles eat slugs. Choosing plants that are less likely to be eaten by pests, such as fuchsias, lavenders and slug-resistant potato varieties, will also
areas in which the family can play, and also areas where you can just sit and enjoy the garden. A pergola is a good idea to give you a little place to retreat to; a sanctuary within your garden. It looks stylish and offers a place for plants to climb and bloom, making a beautiful focal point for your garden. Why not add outdoor lights to set the scene at evening garden parties? A patio is a must-have for any summer entertaining you plan to do. It gives a solid area for chairs and tables and acts almost as a connecting point between the house and garden. It’s a great spot to house a barbecue, and offers guests a place where they can gather round, share a drink and get their mouths watering before the food is served. Those who arrange regular garden gatherings over the summer months might decide to invest in some extra garden equipment to make the party swing all the more. There are lots of lighting solutions to make sure your
patio and garden is stil available to guests once sun has gone down. If the temperature is quite as warm as it cou for the time of year, out heaters can give guests enough extra warmth t enjoy the fresh air thro the evening. Also, a garden awnin
POTTY: These colourful watering cans are from TK Maxx
help to limit the damage slugs and snails can do to your garden. Now is the time to get your lawn into shape, too. Give it a light roll and mow followed by aeration, which involves scratching the lawn surface with a rake to enable the soil to absorb water and allow it to breathe. Scarifying your lawn should also be done in late spring. This is where you drag free those dead blades of grass and also any moss or loose debris that has found its way into your lawn. If you have lots of moss, sprinkle lawn sand over infected areas or use weedkiller to destroy it, then rake free. If there are bald patches, feed your lawn with a quality lawn fertiliser high in nitrogen before overseeding them to ensure growth in time for the summer. Then mow regularly until autumn. If your lawn really has seen better days, you could always invest in some new turf, but make sure you choose moist rolls. If you’re still having trouble, you could always employ the services of a landscape gardener, who will be able to rescue your garden and turn it into a blaze of colour. Make sure you visit your local garden centre, too. As well as having all the tools you need, from lawnmowers to rakes and spades, plus a dazzling array or plants, shrubs and trees, not to mention fertilisers, there are usually experts on all things green fingered so you can quiz them on what you should be doing and when. By giving your garden the TLC it deserves now, hopefully by summer it will be bursting with colourful blooms and you can sit back on your sun lounger and enjoy the fruits of your labour!
GET TO WORK: A little la
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NEWS 13
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Homestyle 2011
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Picture: Jupiter Images
be very handy to give guests somewhere other than the inside of the house to retreat to, should the British weather unfortunately turn to rain. There’s so much out there to help enhance your garden and get it ready for summer. Visit your local garden centre today and stock up in time for the party season.
EAT OUT: Enjoy a barbecue with friends and family during the summer
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14 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
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Homestyle 2011
Imagine a new look at little cost
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GET CREATIVE: Create your own funky art with bits and bobs from the home, like these made by Marks & Spencer
ITH many of us still watching our pennies and looking to live life frugally, the 'make do and mend' mentality of yesteryear is becoming increasingly in vogue. A culture that hails from British wartime, 'make do and mend' had, it seemed, been all but forgotten by many modern day home-owners. But with an age of austerity now upon us, the movement is once again being embraced across the country. And with good reason, too! A practical and affordable option, fixing or revamping the items in your home can save you bucket loads of money. So instead of buying something new or ripping everything out, have a look at what can be mended, instead. From fixing those loose shelves in your chest of drawers to giving your rug a professional clean and repairing that broken leg on your dining room table, there's much you can do yourself, and a good DIY manual, spot of elbow grease and good serving of determination is all you need. Keep in mind what talents (or hidden talents!) you may have, too.
NEW FOR OLD: Give your old pieces of furniture a new lease of life with a lick of paint. This chest is from Sweetpea & Willow
If you're a dab hand with a paint brush, dig out your water colours and get creative. Not only is creating your own artwork an affordable way to create original and stylish wall hangings for your home, but making them yourself means you can match the exact colour and theme to complement your other furnishings. If you don't trust your artistic skills, however, use a cut-off from
SITTING PRETTY: Why not update old chair covers with some vibrant new fabric? These colourful stools are from www.garrendennylane.com
a sample of wallpaper to place inside a frame, or buy a blank canvas and trace a pattern that you like before finishing with a lick of paint. Make sure you collect all those odds and ends you've no doubt got lying around too – you'd be surprised what you can create. Old driftwood and shells from last year's holiday could look fabulous arranged on your coffee table. While that collection of screws and bolts could make a funky new-look lamp with the aid of a glue gun. Even things like left over lino flooring can be utilised as handy wipe-clean table mats. And what about those extra bathroom tiles that were never used? Added to the bottom of plain blinds or soap dishes, you'll soon have a fully co-ordinated bathroom for no extra cost. If you can sew, even better. Those old cushion covers, blankets and clothes can find a new lease of life as a quirky patchwork quilt or as a shabby chic cover for outdated chairs. And what about updating children's bedroom furniture with pages of old comic books and princess-themed wrapping paper? With a slathering of wood glue and coat of varnish, they'll soon have a bedroom that's the envy of all their friends. Don't forget about the outside of your property, either. In the garden there’s much that can be done without breaking the bank. Have a rummage through your shed or garage and see what you can find. Perhaps you've got an old bike that would look great with flowers spilling out of its basket and a lick of paint? Or maybe you've got some old ceramic pots or wooden boxes that simply need a coat of varnish or paint to bring them back to life? You'll be surprised at how simple it is to create a new look for less. With so many easy and affordable ways to give your property a stylish make-over, that dream home could be yours at a fraction of the cost – all you need is a bit of imagination.
NEWS 15
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
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Homestyle 2011
Energy-saving tips get the green light
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WATER GREAT IDEA: Collect rain water to use around the garden with this Sankey Water Butt Kit, from B&Q
E’RE constantly being told to recycle, reuse and watch our carbon footprint – even Arnold Schwarzenegger has teamed with Boris Johnson to promote cycling – so now’s the time to start making changes around your home. You don’t have to completely change your way of living, but even making small changes in the home and in your lifestyle can make a difference in the long term. It’s all been said before, but simple things such as switching off lights in rooms you’re not using, washing clothes below 40°C, not leaving appliances on standby, unplugging chargers and using energy-saving lightbulbs can all make a difference. You could also think about only filling the kettle with as much water as you need, and not leaving the water running when brushing your teeth. There’s a whole range of small things you can do around your home. Most councils are now providing fortnightly collections for recycled items, including cardboard, glass, tins, bottles and jars, so make sure you pop your recyclable waste into the right bin and you’ll be doing your bit.
LIGHT BULB MOMENT: Energy efficent lightbulbs can save you money BAG IT: These durable recycling bags from www.drinkstuff.com are the perfect solution for sorting your recyclables
You can also get small food bins if you want to further recycle your left-over food items, or you could use this to create your own compost if you want to give your plants a helping hand or if you’re growing your own vegetables. To create your own compost, simply get a bin and put in garden waste such as grass and weeds, as well as some kitchen waste such as vegetable peels and teabags – don’t use meat, fish or cooked food, though. It will take a long time to create, so you may want to see if your local garden centre has tips. If you’re looking at bigger projects to help you ‘go green,’ then ensuring your appliances are A-rated for their efficiency and your home is well insulated in the loft is a good place to start. If your windows were letting in plenty of draughts this winter, then if they’re old maybe it’s time to start thinking about getting them replaced with new energy efficient windows. Some window and door manufacturers use a window energy rating scheme to show the energy efficiency of their product – similar to the one on appliances such as your fridge – A-rated windows are the most efficient. New double glazing will help keep your home warmer and quieter, as
well as reducing your energy bills. If you’re actually thinking of generating your own energy, then small wind turbines could be for you. According to the Energy Saving Trust, around 40% of all the wind energy in Europe blows over the UK, making it an ideal country for small domestic turbines. Wind turbines harness the power of the wind and use it to generate electricity. Small systems known as ‘microwind’ or ‘smallwind’ turbines can produce electricity to help power the lights and electrical appliances in a typical home. You could also try solar panels; although they are initially expensive they generate cheap, green electricity from sunlight. Solar electricity systems capture the sun’s energy using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The cells convert the sunlight into electricity, which can be used to run household appliances and lighting. PV cells don’t need direct sunlight to work – you can still generate some electricity on a cloudy day. So whether you simply make a small few changes or install energy producing equipment, it’ll all make a difference in the future. For more energy-saving tips, log on to the website at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk.
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Tuesday, April 12, 2011
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Homestyle 2011
Impeccable table manners
T
family gathers. HE dining room is at Dining tables come in a the heart of the home, variety of shapes, styles and so when it comes to decor, it’s important to sizes. You need to think about how many people you need to get it right. seat around the table, and This versatile room is used what shape would suit your for a variety of functions, room best. from eating family meals and For example, round or entertaining guests to square styles suit small, romantic candlelit dinners – intimate rooms, whereas or even doing homework! rectangle or oval ones are And it is at the scene of great for large families or many a celebration, from those who entertain a lot. birthdays to engagements. You might want to opt for a It is the room where many versatile table with hidden memories are made. And, I leaves which extend when you should imagine, there will be are hosting extra lots of families gathering people but fold in around the dining to save space table this during quieter Easter times. enjoying a When it hearty roast comes to style, and Simnel natural, rustic cake. woods are So as the popular this dining room season, such as takes on a light oak. The use variety of roles, of white paint it has to be and even flexible in driftwooddesign. If toned stain is you’re looking replacing many to update your of the deep, dining room, dark shades. there are a Plus, with all number of things ‘green’ things to take SHAKE ON IT: Salt and being on trend, into pepper set from Matalan eco-friendly consideration. woods, such as One of your mango wood, and recycled first things to think about is materials are all the rage. the furniture – more Many dining sets include importantly, the dining table matching chairs in the same itself – the focal point of the material as the table, or if you action where the whole
TAKE A SEAT: Toulouse round dining table and four chairs in rustic reclaimed oak and vaneer from Harveys prefer a more haphazard style, you can choose different chairs but with a similar theme or fabric. It’s worth considering the material of the chairs. If you have small children, they will need to be easily cleaned, so upholstered chairs are good,
in particular. Messy handprints can be easily wiped off leather. If you have room, you may wish to add additional furniture such as a shelving unit, dresser, sideboard or display cabinet where you can store your crockery or even a
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computer desk if your dining area doubles up as an office space. Just make sure you have plenty of space for all your furniture and that you can get in and out of your seats comfortably. With so much going on in
the dining room, many families opt for a minimalist design using neutral colours, with perhaps a brighter accent colour or wallpaper on one wall. Decor tends to be simple, yet warm and cosy to create a welcoming atmosphere where you can relax and chat with friends and family. If you wish to spice things up a bit, you can do this through your accessories, such as mirrors, rugs, ornaments, light fittings and artwork; not forgetting table decorations. Global ethnic styles can energise a room, with jeweltoned reds, greens and purples making a strong showing. Reds and gold are always a good colour to have in a dining room, as they are warm and bold and complement the food as well as the people sitting around the table. A flower arrangement on the table or a few plants around the room can provide a friendly atmosphere, while a chandelier may add a touch of majesty. If you really want to be on trend, then be square! Square is big news in dining rooms right now, with lots of sharp edges and angles such as square tables and rectangular rugs. One very important thing to think about is lighting, as it can really change the ambience of the room. Consider installing a dimmer switch so you can enjoy a well-lit family teatime, or an intimate dinner party atmosphere. With the right furniture and decor, you can sit back and enjoy lots of lovely occasions. All you have to think about is the cooking!
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Tuesday, April 12, 2011
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18 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
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Homestyle 2011
Room to spare? Put it to good use I
S your garage cluttered, or your spare room full of old toys? Then it may be time for a clear-out so you can use your home to its full potential. It can be hard to part with some items, but think how much more you could get out of the room if it was finished as a study or playroom for the children. You need to start with a complete de-clutter. Get rid of any items you haven’t used in years or that are broken and won’t be used again. You could even go to a car boot sale to make a little extra cash to help decorate the room. If you can’t completely clear the room, then it’s worth thinking about fitting some cupboards or wardrobes where the items can be neatly stored away and still give you space to enjoy. Next you need to decide on how you and your family can best use the space. You don’t have to spend a fortune re-decorating, but a fresh coat of paint will give the room a new lease of life. Maybe you work from home and would benefit from a separate office space, allowing you to ‘switch-off ’ when you leave the room. You could choose slimline storage
for your files, as well as a sleek computer desk that gives the room a stylish edge. If you do decide to use it as your workspace, then ensure you get some relaxing or inspiring artwork to help you in your creative endeavours. Alternatively, you could use your ‘new found’ space as a gym or a hobby room. Creating this extra room where you can relax with something you enjoy could be just what you need, whether that’s playing an instrument, taking up a new hobby, or even unleashing your creative side with some artwork, painting or drawing. If you’ve got children, then teenagers could use it as a place to study and hang out when they have friends around, or if you’ve got youngsters then it could be an ideal place for your children to play with all their toys. If you put your children’s toys in a separate room to where they sleep, they might be less tempted to start playing at bedtime, and so see their bedroom as a place to sleep and relax, while this new room could be their place to play. You can use big bold paintings to brighten up the space without you having to
spend too much money, and why not get a funky coloured rug too, so your children can really enjoy the space? Alternatively, if you’ve used all your indoor space to its full capacity, then why not see if you can create some more room to use outside? If your garden’s big enough to fit in a good sized shed or summerhouse, then this may be the ideal solution to make an additional hobby room or play room. A summerhouse, if you have the room in your garden, can be used all year round by adults and children alike, extending the use of your garden by months. If you’re a budding artist, you might want to do your artwork in there, using it as an artist’s studio, or it would be the perfect place for a spot of bird watching – all you need is a pair of binoculars and you’re all set! And as summer approaches, moving the children’s toys into their own ‘playhouse’ is a great idea, plus it’ll be like their own little den where they can play to their hearts’ content. Make sure you get the most out of your home with a touch of de-cluttering and a little sprucing up, and make use of the space you have.
KIDS’ DELIGHT: Play rooms are a great use of your spare room. This one has been decorated using wall stickers from www.peanutandpip.com
MAKE SPACE FOR HOME WORK MORE people than ever before are choosing to work from home. According to national statistics, 2.2m people in the UK now do so, and this figure is increasing on average by 13% a year. When space is at a premium, creating an office in your home can prove difficult, but with a little imagination and ingenuity you can make a home office with even the smallest space. Not everyone has the luxury of being able to set aside a whole room for their work space, which means you either have to create room within your existing space or have a dual-purpose office which can be used for another function. As well as finding the right space in your home for your new office, you need to find the right location. If you have children, then ideally you want your work space to be as far away as possible from the distractions of family life, to make sure you’re able to get work done. At the same time, it is important that once you have finished your working day, you can separate your work and home life from each other. You need to ensure you can either shut the door and walk away from your office, or the space is used for something else so you aren’t constantly being reminded about work issues. Redundant space such as under the stairs or on a landing can effectively be used as an office.
ROOM: The key to creating the right space for working from home is careful organisation. This neat table and chairs is from John Lewis Separate the space out by using a shelving unit, where you can also store files and paper work. If you have a guest bedroom, why not think about replacing a double bed with a fold-up sofa bed? This will give you extra floor space where a desk and office could be set up. Or a big wardrobe could be used for a compact office. If you are lucky enough to be able to set aside a whole room for your office, make sure you plan it
carefully. Draw up a floor plan before purchasing any furniture or equipment. Take into account where the windows and doors are, and also note where the electricity and telephone sockets are. Plan your work space so you have room to keep items such as the telephone within reach while still retaining room to make notes. And make sure you allow room for filing cabinets and drawers to open.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
NEWS 19
Homestyle 2011
MAKE SPACE: An extension could be a good alternative to moving house. Inset, large sliding doors – like these from Architect your Home – can bring the outdoors in
Moving on up... or back or sideways! A
S families grow, many homeowners come to find that the space available within their homes is just not enough anymore. Whether you need an extra bedroom for gran, a playroom for the kids, an office or study or a conservatory for the family to enjoy, extending your house may be the way to go. Some people will automatically look to move up the property ladder and buy a bigger house when they need more room, but if you have space towards the rear or side of your house then building a single- or double-storey extension may be the best and most cost-effective way to create extra rooms. It can be a big operation, but should be worth it in the end. Your extension plans must be submitted to the local council, and you’ll require both planning and building permissions. Also your house will look like a building site for a while. However, if you bring in a good architect and trusted builders then the job should be completed with the minimum of fuss. An architect is qualified to
design and advise on both the aesthetic and technical side of property development. Look for an architect who will be capable of orchestrating your building project, with a view to how best achieve your goals and lead the way in bringing everything to completion. In order to ensure the architect you choose has the right blend of these skills, it is a good idea to seek recommendations from others who have used that architect before. A combination of vision and imagination, experience and technical know-how plus good communication skills will be present in the best architects. Always meet with them to discuss their plans and ideas for your property, and get a good idea of costs too. Make sure you look at the scope of services your build team will provide, the expected amount of time they need for the work to be completed, a full breakdown of fees and the required method of payment for their services. An architect has the knowledge and experience to help homeowners avoid the
common pitfalls and ensure that they don’t miss any opportunities. They can open up possibilities, keep projects focused and save a lot of hassle. While the flexibility of a full extension is a great way to add rooms to your house, it is often much simpler and quicker to build a conservatory. While creating another useful room for your house, the joy of the conservatory is that it really brings the outside in. So you can enjoy the garden and the summer weather in the conservatory’s shade. Plus, if it’s raining outside, you can still enjoy gazing onto the garden. One other option could be to build a summerhouse or some other recreational room somewhere within the garden. Unconnected to the house, such a building can give you an extra room to use as an office, a studio or just a place to relax. Some people even opt to create an entire teenage suite to give their kids a little freedom. So, for the ideal way to gain more space with your home, without having to up sticks and move house, go the extension route.
Merseyside Slate and Tile Merseyside Slate and Tile has expanded into Aintree. Merseyside Slate and Tile has been servicing Merseyside’s roofing needs for 32 years. Since opening in 1979 the number of customers who use our competitive reliable service has increased year after year as has the stock we keep. A visit to our web site will give you a clearer picture of who we are. Due to this success, we have recently opened another depot in Brookfield Drive, Aintree, carrying an extensive stock range including Redland, Marley and Russell tiles, battens, felts, second hand and new slates, roof lights, insulation, bitumen, plywood, flat roofing felts and accessories, tools, ladders and gutters (plastic and aluminium). Our transport fleet consists of two heavy goods wagons with crane off load facility and two smaller flat bed transits vans, which are used to deliver materials all over the North West and beyond when required. Between our two depots our staff have over 100 years of roofing experience between them, so whether you are a householder looking to repair a roof, a contractor requiring materials for forthcoming projects or a specifier seeking to source goods locally to reduce carbon foot printing Merseyside slate and tile has a lot to offer. We are one of a small number of merchants who actively promote the buying and selling of reclaimed roofing slates and ridge tiles, besides the obvious advantages such as matching existing products which is part of our on going environmental policy, along with measures such as only sourcing timber goods from suppliers with forestry certified credentials.
Merseyside Slate and Tile
(Head Office) Merseyside Slate and Tile
117 Brookfield drive Aintree, Liverpool L9 7AJ
187 Regent Road Kirkdale L20 8DQ
Telephone 0151 5230990 Fax 0151 5210460 E-mail hughesg@merseyslate.com
Telephone 0151 9338430 Fax 0151 9226957 E-mail merseyslate@btconnect.com
20 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
BE BOLD: Incorporate the brights trend into your home with vibrant homewares, such as these from Heatons
HUGE SALE NOW ON
THE LEATHER MILL
OVER 200 LEATHER SUITES IN EVERY COLOUR, STYLE AND COMBINATION MUST BE CLEARED Cancelled orders, named brands
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43 MILL LANE, WEST DERBY VILLAGE, LIVERPOOL • Telephone: 256 6939 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. MON - SAT 10am - 5pm, SUN 11am-4pm, THURS open till 7pm
BLOOMING: Floral prints are an on-trend way to brighten your home this spring. These lovely
Some colourful ideas
W
of the outdoors into their home, the HETHER you’re latest botanical and floral trends are redecorating your ideal. Mix fresh shades of green with whole house or just leafy, botanical prints on soft furnishone room, now is ings and decorative accessories made definitely a time for from natural materials such as wicker out with the old and in with the new, and wood for an effortless way to to reveal a brighter, lighter and freshen up your home. fresher home-style in time for spring. Alternatively, to make your home If you are looking to breathe new look blooming marvellous for spring, life into your interior with a fresh consider incorporating floral prints new style, there is a trend to suit all into your decor. All types of floral homes this season – from zesty citrus prints are on-trend, so look for shades to dazzling brights, pretty crockery with a delicate, vintageflorals, exotic ethnic accessories and inspired floral pattern; artwork and retro 50s, 60s and 70s looks. cushions adorned with big, bold If you’re desperate to bring a little blooms or curtains sunshine into your home and liven up embellished your interior for spring, the latest with an bright and beautiful trend is ideal. elegant Think zingy lemon, lime and rose tangerine hues, vivacious fuchsia print. pinks and bright blues paired with calming neutral-hued furniture and decor. A great way to inject a heady dose of colour into your interior, you can either opt for just one bright colour and use it throughout your accessories, or try mixing and matching ornaments and soft furnishings in SNAZZY: a few bright colours to Ornate chintzy print make a real style-statement. For those keen to bring a sense crockery from House of Fraser
Likewise, floral and botanical prints work well on statement walls, so for a home that’s really in full bloom, why not create a focal point by using a print on just one wall? With the Royal wedding taking place this month, regal-themed interiors are also expected to be huge this spring/summer. To bring some regal style into your humble abode, try mixing sophisticated, Regencystyle furniture, ornate damask print wallpaper, gorgeous gilt mirrors and elaborate chandeliers. Alternatively, for a kitsch take on the trend, look for nostalgic, rule Britannia-themed accessories and homewares. Other ways to update your home’s interior include mixing vintage and craft-inspired items for a relaxed, homely feel; add a sense of the exotic to your decor with ethnic-inspired furniture and accessories; or go retro with statement 50s pieces or hippie-chic 70s accessories and prints for a bohemian feel. Whichever interiors trend you opt for, make sure you balance out any bold design choices with neutral walls, except perhaps for one statement wall, so the overall look stays the right side of stylish. However you plan to brighten up your home this spring, with a little imagination your home can be transformed in next to no time.
★★★★
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
NEWS 21
Homestyle 2011
bold patterns are from Next
GREEN DREAM: Bring the outside in with fresh shades of green and botanical prints, like these from Next
ETHNIC: Buddha head, left, from Next. Below, lanterns from Debenhams
BACK TO THE FUTURE: Go retro with 70s-style prints and furniture from DigitexHOME
22 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
Keep home fires burning T
HOME IS WHERE THE HEARTH IS: Traditional fireplaces are still popular. From Elizabeth Bradley
Liverpool
Fireplace
Centre
Design • Installation • Manufacture
Fantastic Range of Fireplaces NOW ON SALE - HUGE SAVINGS!
No need to re-carpet & re-decorate all our fireplaces are made to measure
FREE HOME SURVEY • GAS SAFE REGISTERED STONE • MARBLE SOLID FUEL & GRANITE STOCKISTS
FREE FITTING NO VAT
Come and visit our showroom
134 AIGBURTH ROAD, LIVERPOOL 17 Tel: 0151 727 2787
OPEN 7 DAYS - MON - SAT 9.30 - 5pm • SUN 11 - 3pm
email: liverpoolfireplacecentre@live.co.uk
HE weather might be improving finally, but when it comes to creating the perfect focal point for any room, you can’t beat a stylish fireplace. So whether it’s winter or summer, getting the right fireplace for your room is crucial. And what’s more, at this time of year there are some great offers available, so what are you waiting for? Check out what your local fireplace showroom has to offer and you could give any room in your house a new lease of life. But where to begin? First of all, you need to have a clear idea what kind of fire you are looking for – whether it’s gas, electric or solid fuel – and in turn, to decide this you have to know what you want the fire for. If it’s purely for aesthetic reasons with the aim of creating a centrepoint for say, your living room, then an electric fire should suit. There are some great contemporary styles out there which give a real modern twist to the room. Gas fires tend to be more traditional in style, but again there are also some more modern versions available too, so make sure you do your homework to get the right look to fit in with your own personal taste. Open fires offer the ultimate in aesthetics while being incredibly functional, but do require a lot of work and can be messy and dusty. So if your
house is a ‘no dust’ zone then, don’t even think about opting for an open fire. A compromise could be a solid fuel burning stove, which offers the best of both worlds: All the aesthetic appeal of an open fire but with less mess, and the dust is contained within the stove making it easier (and cleaner!) to maintain. Multi-fuel burning stoves will burn wood, coal and smokeless fuel, and are considered a lot more fuel-efficient than standard open fires, which lose a lot of heat. And stoves also offer a viable alternative to central heating, coming in at well over three times cheaper to run. In today’s tough economic climate, this is well worth bearing in mind. And for the ultimate in costefficiency, consider this. The latest in modern wood burning systems have the capability of cooking, whole house heating, hot water and heat storage. You could go for a wood burning stove that has a traditional kitchen range look, with a wood burning back boiler providing hot water for radiators and the main hot water cylinder. You can even integrate a wood burner with solar thermal heating and solar lighting, and you’ll be well on your way to saving yourself lots of money and saving the planet at the same time.
GO GO GADGETS
can now get wireless music pumped addition to your personal music TECHNOLOGY is getting smarter into a number of rooms at the collection, you can access a world day by day, with sat nav on your same time, but playing different of music without ever turning on smart phone and Nintendo DS 3D songs! Companies such as Sonos your computer. working without glasses, and there’s have made it possible for mum to And while you’re dancing away to plenty of home gadgets to get listen to the radio in the kitchen, your music, why not get a little help excited about! with the housework? Vacuum Your home is more than likely full dad to be enjoying sounds of the 60s in the lounge and the children cleaners which navigate themselves of technology, but if yours is still to be enjoying pop hits in the around your room, sucking up all stuck in 1980 it may be time to bedroom. the dust and dirt, are now hitting take a peek at the latest gadgets. Simply set up ZonePlayers the mainstream market with the The ever-present TV is most wirelessly in any or every room, likes of the little round i-Robot people’s number one home grab a controller and listen to your Vacuum and the Samsung NaviBot, accessory, and tech-lovers will tell which can clean carpets and floors you the last five years has seen TVs heart’s content. Sonos connects directly to the internet, so in with its triple brush system. The bring the latest movies to life NaviBot can go under the coffee without you even needing to move table, around the couch and from your sofa. through the hallway to the next High definition has made us all room with its Visionary Mapping™ realise what we’ve been missing, System, charting the most efficient with much sharper images and course around your house. better sound quality from HD If you want to ensure all your 1080p televisions, while 3D TVs gadgets are kept safe and are currently pushing through secure, then these days even the market, trying to claim the the most budget-conscious next big home gadget title. people can secure their home If music is your thing, then with top tech. there are a whole range of Security systems which use fabulous sound systems that CCTVs around your home can will have you bopping around now alert you when you’re out your kitchen. MP3 players have and about, through your smart enabled the world of music to phone, with prices starting be condensed into one small around £200. Plus you can even hand-set, and all you have to do get systems that allow you to see is pop it in the docking station and what the cameras are capturing – your home will be filled with your perfect for keeping an eye on your favourite tunes. Even when you’re home when you’re away. off to bed, your pillow can now So, whether you’re looking for release soft sounds to help you drift gadgets to entertain or help off. As an alternative to HELPER: Let the i-Robot Roomba 555 vacuum you around the home, there’s plenty to choose from. portable docking stations, you cleaner do all the hard work, from John Lewis
SOU
OUND IDEA: Listen to music wirelessly around your home with the Sonos ZonePlayer
★★★★
NEWS 23
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Homestyle 2011
HOT STUFF: Left, this magma fire, from Living It Up, is one of the latest styles. Above, stoves are also popular. This one’s from Haddonstone
MASSIVE SALE NOW ON
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Suite in Marfil finish, with downlights & solid marble set
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"THE KELSO" In solid marble, choice of colours with lights
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£299 Hole in the Wall fire Choice of marble or granite Made to order WAS £1,495
WAS £799
THIS WEEK'S SPECIAL OFFER
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24 NEWS
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
★★★★
Homestyle 2011
Enjoy blast from the past W
WHEN INSTALLING YOUR BATHROOM WE DON'T USE TOM, DICK, NOR INDEED HARRY!
CHIC: Clean lines look fab in the kitchen, such as this table and chairs from Harveys (above)
HEN it comes to furnishing your home, it’s great to try and put your own personal mark on things so that the space feels truly yours. And the beauty of current interior trends is that anything goes. From classic pieces of antique furniture to daring contemporary pieces, and everything in between, the possibilities are endless so all you need is a bit of inspiration and lots of imagination and your home will soon be bursting with character and personality. There may be a particular trend or era which you love so if you want your home to reflect your personality then take inspiration from your own likes and dislikes. If the 1920s are your thing then go for an Art Deco look, or if you prefer something more classical, then you need to hunt down some antique or reproduction furniture. But if you are a slave to fashion then why not go for something a bit more modern and search for some stylish, contemporary pieces? If you are feeling particularly brave and don’t want to be pigeon-holed into a particular style, then take a leaf out of leading interior designers’ books and
At Absolute Bathrooms, a trusted Gas Safe* registered company, we NEVER use sub-contract fitters. All our installers are employed and insured by ourselves, have years of professional experience and a well-earned reputation for customer satisfaction. ■
FREE no-obligation survey and quotation
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Detailed bathroom plan
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Visit our extensive showroom and be inspired by over 50 settings to fire your imagination.
0151 486 2220 www.absolute-bathrooms.co.uk Absolute Bathrooms Limited, Speke Hall Road, Hunts Cross, Liverpool L24 9HE Showroom open Mon - Fri, 9am - 5.30pm Sat 10.30am - 4pm Secure on-site parking
VINTAGE: Go antique with vintage accessories and furniture, from Ghost Furniture and John Lewis (right)
mix and match traditional and contemporary furniture, to create your own unique look. Take inspiration from the high street which currently has some fabulous retro furniture on offer or check out what your local auction house, car boot sale or second-hand furniture shop have to offer. ● Go antique... Recreate the traditional look for your home with some fabulous classic, vintage-style pieces of furniture. ● Keep it modern... For a sleek and contemporary style furnish your home with some modern-retro furniture.
RETRO: Statement furniture is fun and funky; pentium light-up chairs from M&S (above) and this arm chair, from Very