Homestyle Autumn 08 by Merseyside.Weeklies v1s1ter

homestyle ideas for living

Autumn

2008

Sefton and West Lancashire

Publication

Photographs courtesy of Stokers Fine Furnishings, Houghton Street, Southport

Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Don’t get caught out in the cold this winter T

HE crispness in the air and the nights drawing in means autumn, that season of mists and mellow fruitfulness is upon us again.

With summer having been a wash out, you might find that many of those big jobs you’d been putting off around the house didn’t get done. You know the sort of thing, painting the windowsills, weatherproofing the fence and checking the guttering. Maybe you were planning on some bigger conversion jobs on your property? Well, you’ve still got time, but you should hurry and get them

sorted before winter because the harsher wintry weather can cause more damage to any untreated and unkempt parts of your home and garden. While you’re at it, you should ensure everything inside your home is ready for winter too, after all, you’ll be spending much more time within your four walls once the weather gets colder, so it’s best to be certain you’re all prepared. So if you’re planning on room renovations or simply shifting things around, buying new furniture or adding a lick of paint, now’s the time to do it. If you're trying to sell your home,

● Make a clean sweep in your home with a combined bedroom and dressing room redesign there are many simple design tasks that can be completed to make your house look better and therefore more saleable to people viewing it. Improving the overall appearance of your home will make it more appealing to prospective buyers. Although, if you’re planning to stay put there’s no reason not to work on your home to make it a more comfortable and attractive place to live. If your growing family is feeling those four walls closing in on them, perhaps look at different ideas for extending your property and making the most of the space you already have.

Which rooms in your house need freshening up or converting? Are you making the most of your lounge as a family space? Is your dining room ready to dazzle and entertain guests this winter? Will the kitchen be ready to cope with the cooking? Is your guest room an embarrassment? Does your bathroom scream style and cool elegance? And then there’s flooring – carpets, laminates or woods? Not to mention painting walls and ceilings, wallpapering, furniture and accessories. There are many ways you can add your own personality to make your

Picture: NEVILLE JOHNSON

home stand-out. So, while you’re refreshing your property, make sure to add a little creative flair of your own. It’s worth looking at how well insulated your home is. Without good insulation you’re throwing money away on heating bills, and your home will not be eco-friendly. In fact, insulation is just one way in which you can help keep a greener home. Procrastinate no longer, get planning and then get to work. With any luck, you should be able to transform your property into the stylish and cosy haven you’ve always imagined, before winter arrives.

Always room for improvement

● Stimulate your senses in this contemporary study

Picture: NEXT

THERE aren’t many rooms in the home where you can let your creative side roam free - but your study should be one of them. Often left unloved and neglected, the study acts for many as a transitional dumping ground with no real purpose in life - however, with a little bit of elbow grease and creativity it could soon be one of your favourite rooms in the house. With this in mind, take a good look at the size and space available to you and think about what you’d really like to use it as. Perhaps you've always wanted an art studio where you can hone your watercolour skills or brush strokes? Or, maybe your kids would love somewhere they can store their games and DVDs? It could even be that you want a traditional study where you can work from home. If so, this doesn’t mean that the room has to be a boring blend of magnolia and cream. Whether you like contemporary work spaces with bright colours and neon fittings or would prefer a more serene space with pastel shades and lots of light, this can be your very own haven. Creating a games room is another increasingly popular trend amongst men (and many women). Providing the perfect respite to watch the footie, relax with mates or practice those golf swings on the Nintendo Wii, techno-geeks and gamers will be the envy of all their friends - plus another great thing about games rooms is that they can be as stylish or informal as you like.

● Indulge your inner book worm with a beautiful bookshelf, featuring all your favourite reads Picture: BELLE MAISON From contemporary batchelorpad style retreats kitted out with the latest 40” LCD HD ready TV, pool table and bar to a relaxed chill out room where the whole family can play. Alternatively, why not re-create your own private library lined floor to ceiling with all of your favourite books? The perfect hide-away for book worms of all ages, it’s important to make the

room feel as cosy as possible and with comfy chairs, soft lighting and plush rugs you’ll have the perfect place to curl up and escape to a different world. Whatever it is you want, make sure you don’t waste your space any longer. A little imagination goes a long way, so if you’ve got a study not being used, shake off those inhibitions and let your creative side run wild.

Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Unleash your creative flair

D e si g ne r Wa l l pa p e r Designer Fabrics De sig ne r Pa in ts

● These peel and stick butterfly wall stickers are perfect for brightening up a child's bedroom Picture: ASPACE

Stockists of Alegra Hicks - David Oliver

E all wish our homes could be completed with those finishing ‘designer’ touches, but there are other ways to add style without breaking the bank.

Finding your creative side is the ideal way to spruce up your property while still ensuring it keeps your personal style. Whether you decide on a classic piece of wall stencilling, choosing an alternative colour scheme or even trying your hand at a little original artwork, you can give your home those added extras it deserves. Nowadays, wall stencils have come a long way from the slightly over the top bow and flower patterns we all remember. Now you can get whole feature wall stencils that appear to be more contemporary art than repetitive features. If you’re still not convinced with stencils, then why not try art stickers? They may not sound so glamorous, but they can really transform a room, whether it’s a modern living room or a children’s bedroom. They can come in a range of colours and styles from natural style vines and trees, modern shaped flowers and patterns to children’s themes with butterflies and animals – there’s plenty to choose from to create the perfect feature. You can even add your own touch of creativity through home decor items, such as

Nina Campbell - Brian Yates Farrow & Ball - Zoffany Manual Canovas - Cole & Son - Larsen Neisha Crosland - Elitis Osborne & Little

A rc h i t e c t u re Interior Design Space Planning Pro j e c t M a n a g e m e n t C o s t C o n t ro l ● This contemporary design rug is available in a range of colours and creates a lovely feature Picture: THE RUG SELLER cushion covers and curtains why not make your own? Although if being creative through ‘do it yourself ’ isn’t your strongest forte, then there are still plenty of inspirational pieces available at local stores to make your home your own. Whether it’s through patterned wallpaper, well

placed rugs or stylish lamp shades, make your rooms reflect your style while still having a modern touch. This autumn is set for deep purples, rich reds and a range of golds, all in contemporary patterns that are set to help you make your home a haven as the colder weather approaches.

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

● Create a tranquil and relaxing bedroom with soft colours

● Children's bedrooms are one of the most enjoyable to decorate

Dream designs for your bedroom F

ROM colourful kids bedrooms to magnificent master suites, the humble bedroom is required to fulfil many roles in the average family home.

Often overlooked in favour of sprucing up the main living areas, bedrooms are equally important and as such deserve a little of our love and attention when it comes to making home improvements. For master bedrooms, the focus should be on creating your own oasis of relaxation and there are an overwhelming range of styles, suites, furnishings and accessories to choose between.

Picture: NEXT

From decadent boudoirs with solid wood sleigh beds and red satin sheets, 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 and 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 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 horrors aren't so little anymore, perhaps it's time to consider swapping that Bob the Builder wallpaper and cramped single bed for something more grown up? From mirrored wardrobes and a dressing table for your fashionconscious daughter, to a trendy boys room complete with ample shelves 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

Picture: ASPACE

friends. Keep the decor simple with warm, neutral paints in fresh hues 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. Whatever and whoever the room is for, just remember that with a little bit of hard work you can achieve the bedroom of your dreams.

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Find sanctuary in your favourites

ITH the rush of everyday living we all need a place where we can retreat. The living room or lounge is not just about comfort but about the way we live.

Some are little more than a television and a sofa where you collapse each evening. Others are too stilted and formal to be of any real use and go unused for most of the time. And then there are the living rooms that combine the best of both worlds, and allow for both relaxation and entertaining. A successful room is functional, expresses a mood and exhibits a sense of harmony. If you’ve just moved into a new house or flat, stocking your first living space can seem like an overwhelming task, but it doesn't have to be. A comfortable sofa or chairs, coffee table, side tables, lamps, entertainment centre, bookcases and shelves are the basics of a lounge in which to unwind or throw a lavish housewarming party. (Well...if you’re going to all that effort, it would be rude not to crack open a bottle or two.) Recent research from John Lewis has found that the average Briton spends the equivalent of over 12 years of their life on their sofa - so it’s important to choose the right one for maximum lounging impact! It may seem obvious but the most important factor is to make sure that the sofa will fit in the desired space. There are a variety of traditional and contemporary styles to suit every lounge space, from the family room to the bachelor pad. Want a relaxed, calming atmosphere? Paint with neutrals or cool colours such as blues and greens. Want to express your colourful personality? Try using bright, energetic colour combinations. Wallpaper is back in fashion and with plenty of opulent colours and large designs it's easy to create a focal point in any room by using it on just one wall, or just on fireplace walls. If you don't want to paint or wallpaper, you could frame some pictures or photographs, or more unusual things such as shells, fabric, CD covers, soup can labels, or even sheet music. Add some personality with cushions, candles, rugs and throws to warm up the room. The trend of mixing old and new is still going strong

and no chic lounge nowadays is complete without a blast from the past. Inject some retro style into a modern setting with an antique mirror or vintage chandelier, or add some quirkiness to a period room with a lava lamp or retro radio. Have a look around before you buy - you may well be able to buy a similar if not exactly the same item from a local store, rather than the designer piece which will eat into your budget. Even without the money or space to dedicate an entire room, you can set aside a special place in your living room to escape - perhaps reading, writing, playing old records, watching your favourite films or chatting online in a convenient corner. Create something new with your interior design and make it your own.

● The lounge is not just about comfort but about the way we live

Picture: JOHN LEWIS

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Keep warm without costing the earth

ITH fuel price rises becoming part of our modern day living, maybe it’s time to have a look at what else is available while saving on fuel costs with a feature fire.

The colder months are fast approaching and as much as we try to limit our gas use and turn down the central heating, it’s not advisable or enjoyable to sit shivering in your home. Don’t fret though there are a number of stylish fires and surrounds that can provide your home with the warmth it desires while still cutting your bills, and being better for the environment. Wood burning stoves are now proving to be more economical than the usual gas or electric style, plus using the right ‘fuels’ it can be practically carbon neutral too. You need to choose a biomass fuel, such as logs, wood chips or pellets. Before you go changing your fire though check your area has a local supplier, otherwise it might not be in your best interest! Although logs and wood chips tend to be cheaper, wood pellets are a more compact form of energy and require less storage space. This year sees a modern twist on the traditional style

of wood burning stove, with different shapes and slimmer designs available to fit in with 21st century living. There are also other forms of heating appliances coming to the market that use more environmentally friendly fuels such as bioethanol fire gel, which produces around 75 per cent less CO2 than burning wood, coal or natural gas, along with the renewable modern energy, denatured ethanol, where the fire needs no flue. Of course if your home doesn’t have the resources for a wood burning stove there are still plenty of standard gas and electric fires that create a perfect focal point. Finding the right fireplace depends a lot on the current style of your home. Is it sleek and simplistic? Homely with a country feel? or a Victorian style with classic high ceilings? There are plenty of surrounds available to suit any style home, you just have to make sure you choose the right one that complements your property. Local stores will have friendly staff on hand that can help you choose out the ideal style if you tell them what you’re looking for, so why not pay them a visit?

● Create a traditional feel with this cast iron enamelled gas stove, with a highly realistic log-effect fire - available in five enamelled colours or traditional matt black Picture: STOVAX

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Fuel bills are on the rise but help is at hand

he Go Green Company are experts at helping you cut your fuel costs while also ensuring you do your bit for the environment. In some cases big savings could be made and as energy efficient homes are cheaper to live in they are also worth more when the time comes to sell up. For example, if every household in the UK replaced three standard light bulbs with three energy saving light bulbs enough energy would be saved to power all the street lighting in the UK. Go Green managing director, Paul

Johnson, explains: "There are so many things we could all be doing to reduce our carbon footprint. "First and foremost, we want to replace old boilers with new high efficiency condenser or combination boilers, and install solar panels, but at the same time we want to help people help themselves." The focal point of any heating system is the boiler and a modern, high efficiency model can save gas usage by up to 40% - saving you cash. The Go Green Company is also at the

forefront when it comes to the growing world of solar power. Solar panel systems work alongside traditional forms of energy and can heat the majority of hot water requirements or provide electricity in the home - even in winter. And it could not be easier to get help from the experts. The Go Green Company can conduct a survey of your home over the telephone which could save you big money. The company is able to provide home owners with hints and tips which provide

many cost-cutting measures free of charge while other recommendations could cost just a few pounds. Paul explains: "The biggest savings are found when replacing boilers or installing solar panels with people able to save as much as £800 per year in fuel bills and with interest free credit also available along with very competitive prices it is now time start saving money. "Home owners will not only reduce their fuel bills but also reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere creating a safer environment for future generations."

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Key ingredients to a stylish kitchen F

ROM contemporary chic to country cottage, no matter what your taste, there’s a kitchen to suit your lifestyle.

Unless you have the money to keep up with the latest trends every couple of years, it’s best to think carefully about what you really want your kitchen to be like. Sleek bold surfaces such as red and yellow may be hitting the showrooms, but is this really the style and colour you want for the next 10 years? Opting for high gloss sleek units in neutral shades is a good way to compromise, or why not go for wooden units with high specification granite worksurfaces? Whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to splash the cash on the most up-to-date trends, here’s a brief guide to what’s available: ● Surfaces Laminate is one of the cheapest options available and comes in a wide variety of colours and designs. It can scratch easily, though, so be sure to use chopping boards and pan stands for hot items. Wood is more expensive, yet keeps a timeless look, although it can also scratch easily and stain, so make sure it’s treated.

● Contemporary looks include sleek cupboard surfaces and wooden worktops Picture: B&Q Corian, a plastic-style worktop, gives a seamless look and can come in a wide choice of colours– and any scratches can be repaired. Granite and quartz surfaces provide an excellent worktop, although can be costly. They’re hard to scratch, long-lasting and hygienic. ● Units/cupboards Laminate unit doors are durable, easy to clean and are often long-lasting. Solid wood units can sometimes be prone to the temperature changes and humidity in a kitchen,

although wood veneer is cheaper and isn’t affected so much. ● Walls Wallpaper and paint are the cheapest ways to decorate your kitchen walls, but be sure to buy specific ‘kitchen’ paint or wallpaper so it’s more durable to humidity and temperatures. Tiles are one of the best options, although depending on the size of your kitchen can become costly, so maybe try a combination of tiles and paint/ wallpaper to get the best overall look.

● Keep it simple and classic with solid oak frames and black granite worksurfaces

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

How to make your home more roomy W

HETHER your family’s expanding and you can feel your home closing in, or you simply want to improve and add value to your property, extensions are becoming an attractive option for many home owners.

Often an easier and cheaper alternative than moving house, extending is the ideal solution to many space issues and can transform cramped and small homes into spacious open plan living areas. Conservatories are of course one of the most popular ways to extend, and as they don’t always need planning permission, they can be a relatively quick and easy option, with some firms able to assemble a new conservatory in just a couple of weeks. From sparkling white, modern UPVC and stylish hardwood conservatories to elegant Victorian and Edwardianesqe frames, there are dozens of styles to complement every home, and they provide the perfect place to locate that new dining room, sun room or living area. On a larger scale, permanent brickbuilt extensions could be the answer. From creating a ground floor open plan living room or family kitchen to a two-storey extension with extra bedrooms and bathrooms to boot, extending your home could give your family the vital space it needs. Alternatively, perhaps you’re aspiring to lofty heights? According to Halifax, a loft conversion can be one of the most valuable improvements within the home, and whether you fancy a new master bedroom and luxury en-suite, or are looking to give your family

● Transform your loft into a dream master bedroom, above. Right, a conservatory can add valuable space to your home Top picture: HAMMONDS Right picture: APROPOS TECTONIC

some more space with a playroom or den, loft conversions can transform previously wasted space into a new and exciting part of the home. Extensions don’t have to be upwards or outwards either, and if you can’t get planning permission for a normal extension, it might be worth thinking about digging down. An increasingly popular home improvement, basement conversions can provide a great alternative to find that extra space, and although expensive on the outset, can add as much value as £600 per square foot to

some properties in some urban areas. The perfect place for a family den, games room or extra living room, basements are extremely versatile, and from small cosy retreats to large open plan rooms spanning the entire width of your house, they can be tailored to suit your exact requirements. So, whether you want a modest conservatory or have your heart set on grand designs, expand your home’s potential with a new extension. You have nothing to lose but your cramped conditions!

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Have you seen the light yet?

Bright ideas

S winter fast approaches and the dark nights inevitably creep in, now is the perfect time to bring some light into your life with clever lighting solutions throughout your home.

From spotlights to showcase artwork or photo frames, dimmer switches to create cosy, more intimate lighting to mood lighting and reading lamps, lighting plays an important part in the home. With careful thought and the latest lighting solutions, you can transform any room. From contemporary spotlights to ornate pendants, there’s a dazzling array of ceiling lights on the market. If you’re looking to create a clean, modern feel, spotlights or downlighters are ideal – particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. Pendant shades provide a multitude of stylish options – from the clean lines of fabric shades to intricately adorned crystal varieties. Alternatively, if you want to create an elegant look in your dining room or a lavish boudoir feel in your bedroom, consider fitting a chandelier. From traditional cut glass or crystal designs to contemporary chunky plastic styles, chandeliers are a great way to make a style statement. Whether you’re a proud

● These circular plinth lights are striking parent keen to display family portraits in the best light, or an art aficionado looking to showcase your latest purchase, the right lighting could help you to create a focal point. If you’re keen to showcase a particular feature in your home, consider fitting LED lighting, spotlights, picture lights, cabinet lights or under-unit lighting in the kitchen. As well as performing an essential function, lamps are a great way to add the finishing touch to any room. Whatever the style of your decor or your personal taste, there’s a diverse range of both floor and table lamps on the market. Popular styles include retro-inspired shades,

● Coloured LEDs, like this Phillips LivingColours LED light, are a great way to create mood lighting

Picture: MFI

printed shades, chunky contemporary lamp bases, Eastern-inspired paper shades, teardrop-shaped lamp bases and glass, resin or bronze lamp bases. Lighting adds character to a room, so why not fit dimmer switches to your dining room, bedroom or lounge? Offering an easy way to create instant atmosphere, dimmer switches vary the intensity of lighting. The main types include remote control dimmers, rotating switch dimmers and touch-sensitive dimmers, which change the intensity of the light when you touch the light fitting. Or, as a more quirky way to use mood lighting, try using coloured LED lights. As well as creating an

Picture: JOHN LEWIS

● Contemporary floor lamps make a style statement in any room Picture: JOHN LEWIS atmosphere, lighting can also affect our moods. So, if you’re one of the many people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, look out for speciallydesigned light boxes which can help. Equally, if you’re looking to become more eco-friendly

and save on electricity, consider fitting energy- efficient light bulbs throughout the house. Much more than just a way to light up your home, modern lighting solutions can help accessorise a room, create atmosphere or even boost your green credentials!

● Table lamps will add atmosphere to living and dining rooms Picture: NEXT

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Dress to impress W

ITH a sprinkling of imagination and generous helping of stylish accessories, you can create that picture perfect home with ease. Whether it’s your living room that’s looking outdated or your bedroom that could do with a revamp, a simple smattering of contemporary accessories can breathe life into old rooms and transform your whole home. Soft furnishings such as cushions, curtains, bedspreads, throws and rugs are all essential accessories, and from sumptuous velvets to earthy rattans and minimalistic metals, think about what atmosphere you want to create and choose accessories that will help you achieve this. Pictures, ornaments, vases, lights and mirrors are of course other key ingredients when it comes to accessorising, and whether it’s framed pictures by your favourite artist, a contemporary mirror above the fireplace or selection of stylish storage boxes for the living room, a few cunningly placed quirky or stylish items can inject that much-needed splash of colour to plain rooms. Kitchens and bathrooms could also benefit from some accessorising, and if you can’t afford a complete overhaul, it’s a clever way to cheat your way to success. In bathrooms, choose a bale of colourful

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interior design

For a beautiful interior or the perfect accessory call into our showroom

● Draw attention away from outdated kitchen units with modern accessories Picture: NEXT towels or a trendy bath mat and shower curtain to complement the existing suite and tiles. While, in kitchens, draw attention away from outdated decor with a range of colour-coordinated accessories including retro kitchen scales, tea towels, teapots and mug stands. Equally, for those willing to roll up their sleeves, oversized stencils and bold wallpaper remain a big trend for this season and are an easy way to update a room. Best kept to one feature wall, there are a wide range of patterns and styles available, and whether you want a rich red to create a cosy living room or cool blue

accessories & gifts

showroom inspiration ● Complement your home with quirky candles Picture: FAIRWIND

for a relaxing bedroom, there is something to suit every taste. So, for a stylish home without the hard work, dress your house to impress with a selection of this season's hottest accessories.

13 Hill Street Southport PR9 0NW Phone: 01704 548700 Fax: 01704 548440 E-mail: ambientinteriors@btconnect.com www.ambientinteriors.net

Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Serve up a treat for your dining guests

ORE than just a place to eat, the dining room is a place to entertain, to gather with family and friends, and while away a pleasant afternoon or evening.

Therefore, you need a space that reflects the warm and comfortable environment required for pleasure and relaxation, a room where you will be serving wondrous culinary creations to (hopefully) awe-struck diners. So, when designing a sensual and attractive room, perfect for the sampling of Epicurean delights, you have to look at comfort and perhaps an air of luxury. Strip the room down to the basics in your mind and then start to fill in the blanks, planning and building it up into your ideal dining room. Flooring first. A hardwood look can work well in the dining room, and is easy to clean up after any spillages. It’s not a room where comfortable flooring is required, because it’s unlikely anyone will be sitting on the floor in here! If you have natural wood floorboards, perhaps these can be sanded down and varnished for a traditional, elegant look? Will you wallpaper or repaint your dining room? A popular and fashionable choice when changing the colour scheme of a room today is to create a feature wall.

● Fusion extended dining room set, from the makers of Old Charm Either with wallpaper or paint, choose a relatively neutral colour for three walls of the room and then splash out with a vibrant and eyecatching colour or design on one ‘feature wall’. Now, on to the most important items in the dining room, the dining furniture itself. Practicality should perhaps be the first order of the day, though. You need to choose a table that fits into the space you have available, allowing guests to sit comfortably and not be squashed up against the wall or windows.

Similarly, you should plan for the maximum amount of diners you might expect to have around the table. It’s probably not a good idea to go too big if you don’t need to, but make sure you’re not caught short of room around your new table, either. In terms of quality woods, solid teaks and oaks are good, strong, hard-wearing and attractive. In terms of dining chairs, you can often purchase a set, specifically designed to accompany your chosen table. However, it is worth considering comfort, too.

● Dining furniture should be hardwearing and practical, as well as stylish Picture: MARKS & SPENCER

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

Homestyle

Don’t be floored, get it covered! A

CCORDING to estate agents, flooring has the biggest single impact on a property as a whole.

Get it right and you could add considerable value to your home. Get it wrong and you could be looking at seriously devaluing your property. Watch out, though – before you start fitting laminate flooring from top to bottom, a recent survey undertaken by Alliance and Leicester found that cheap-looking and poorly fitted laminate flooring is likely to detract value. And if you favour carpets then you aren’t off the hook, either – the research singled out patterned carpets as having a major devaluing effect on a property. So now we know what not to do with our flooring, what should we do for the best? First of all you need to take into account what each room is used for and how much ‘traffic’ it has to sustain. There are a few basic rules of thumb – use no nonsense, hard flooring in the kitchen and

bathroom (carpet surrounding a toilet is a big no-no), something practical in hightraffic areas such as hallways and living rooms and

indulge in a bit of comfort and luxury underfoot in the bedroom. You also need to have a think about how it all fits together – even if you use different types of flooring in different rooms you still need to make sure it

‘flows’ throughout the house. Always get the best you can afford, as it really does show in terms of appearance and durability. Britain’s love affair with wood flooring looks set to continue, as its practical benefits and aesthetic appeal offer the best of both worlds. If you are lucky enough to have natural floorboards in good enough condition to be exposed, this is the best option every time. You can hire a sander by the day and varnish it yourself, too Don’t worry if you can’t use your existing floorboards – laminate flooring has come a long way from the cheap, flimsy stuff on offer not so long ago. With ever more styles and colours available in different types of wood, it is possible to create a truly plush look for your flooring. For some of us, though, you can’t beat good old fashioned carpet. Stick to light, neutral colours and you can’t go wrong. The ideal compromise is, of course, wood flooring with the addition of an attractive rug to provide a focal point.

E W L O N A S Picture: HARVEYS

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Don’t Move – Improve

Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

insdale Loft Conversions

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Mediamix Supplement ● Friday, September 26, 2008

AUTUMN is the time to prepare your garden thoroughly, to see it through the cold weather and get things ready for the year to come. It’s not the most exciting time for greenfingered types, but it is vital to put the time in now if your garden is to look its best when summer returns. Without giving your garden proper care and attention, it can end up looking more like a dismal, untidy mess - and when winter comes, with the cold weather the enthusiasm to keep it looking good is all but gone. Weeding, moving summer bedding, and getting rid of garden waste (compost heaps and shredders are always preferable to bonfires) will give you a clean slate to start again with in spring.

WINDMILL NURSERIES Liverpool Road Lydiate

Extensive Selection of Garden Plants • Shrubs • Conifers • Winter Baskets & Tubs Filled to Order Large Selection of Composts Rockery Stone, Stone Ornaments and Sundries etc Christmas Trees available December QUALITY AT THE RIGHT PRICE DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

And at this time of year don’t forget to clear ponds of falling leaves and dying aquatic plants and cover the surface with netting. If you want to make a go of your garden this autumn, why not hire some professional machinery to help get the job done in a quicker time? Or if you’ve more radical changes in mind, think about utilising the skills of a landscape gardener - so that by the time spring comes your garden will be in great shape! Hardy shrubs, and containers in all colours will keep the garden looking alive throughout the colder months and will brighten up a dull looking yard without demanding too much maintenance. However much work you want to put into your garden, why not get the job started now, so you can spend the summer in your own little outdoor haven!

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