Ghvhb

It’s what nature would choose

Organic works with nature and helps protect our planet. Its high standards encourage healthy soil and habitats so bees, birds, butterflies and other wildlife can flourish. That’s why we’ve been pioneers of organic since 1978, expertly milling organically grown grain into flours, making biscuits and now our NEW range of breakfast cereals from the finest organic ingredients. Go organic and discover the range at dovesfarm.co.uk

Contents

decorating & styling

12

The wishlist

The festive collections, collaborations and new releases that are getting us excited

17 Things to do this December

Make the perfect festive print, find your forever tree and jazz up your decorations

19 Colour crush... mistletoe

Share the love this Christmas with this soothing and seductive shade of green

63 As seen on screen

We take fabulous festive interiors from the screen to your scheme. Which is your favourite?

73

Dream tablescapes

What’s your style this season? We reveal the latest festive looks so you can dress your table with wow factor

reader homes

24

36

‘I love our home to sparkle’

Anna has given her beautiful period property a full festive glow up

‘My home works so well at Christmas’

Natural wood accents, neutral backdrops and cosy textiles are perfect for Monika's traditional Polish celebrations

48 ‘I revamped my house with DIY hacks’ Robyn transformed a tired two-bed semi into a playful family home

makeovers

94

‘Pink and gold reign in our stylish kitchen’

Starting from scratch meant Ashley could create her ultimate dream space

102 ‘I wanted a dark and daring room’

Bili has banished the beige for good with a bold and glam colour scheme

108 ‘Painting all four walls pink changed everything’ How Kyla created her magical Moroccan-inspired bedroom shopping

08 Shop the high street

Check out our selection of the best bargain buys the high street and web have to offer right now

14

Felt cute

We embrace the adorable trend for squishable characters made out of felt

32 Eclectic vintage

Mix and match styles from across the decades to create a unique vibe

44 Nordic frost

A sophisticated look that’s rich in simple forms and natural texture

56

80

Merry kitschmas

Get playful this season and brighten your outlook with these cute, quirky and colourful decorations

Last-minute Christmas shopping, sorted!

From festive decs and entertaining essentials to emergency gifts, stocking fillers and gift wrap

98 Think pink

Give a blush scheme some grown-up glam, with metallic accents and subtle sparkle

festive season

106 Tropical luxe

Jungle prints, golden details and dark, moody colours bring a sprinkle of glamour 112 Boho dreaming

Take inspiration from Morocco with relaxed colours, soft textures and warm lighting making 34 Beaded picture frame

Turn a plain frame into something extra with this easy, purse-friendly make

Ribbed bench cushion

Give a wooden dining bench a comfy makeover with a fun upholstery project

Disco ball planter

Add some sparkle to your schemes with this glittering make 60 Hot water bottle cover

Turn an unloved sweater into a cosy cover for a thrifty, stylish winter warmer cooking 86 Foodie gifts

Quick and easy, delicious edible gifts – an ecofriendly, budget alternative to buying pressies

Food news All the latest treats, books, ideas and bloggers

Love your leftovers Make the most of all that festive food with these inspiring recipes to use up what's left

Made to share Party snacks that will keep everyone going well into the New Year!

Subscribe and receive... A gorgeous Emma Bridgewater Christmas biscuits ½ pint mug

Next month Take a peak at our January issue

Savvy home solutions Top tips for a smooth-running home

We chat to... Star of EscapetotheChâteau, Angel Strawbridge

Angel Strawbridge

We throttle tonnes of real, farm-grown rhubarb, born and bred in the British countryside, until we have enough juice to fill a third of every bottle.

Real gin has the countryside in. warnersdistillery.com

MEET THE TEAM

To celebrate our festive film feature on page 63, find out whichChristmas classic inspires the HomeStyleeditorial crew the most

KATIE DUTTON

Staff Writer

‘I just love candlelight and a table overflowing with food! So for me, it’s TheMuppet ChristmasCarol.’

KATIE NICHOLLS

Senior Production Editor

‘Every Xmas I watch the adorable It’saWonderfulLife, and then Elf, the loveable “cotton headed ninny muggins”!’

HANNAH TRIBE

Staff Writer

‘A dash of vintage steamfair, a touch of playful camp and an enormous amount of heart, Paddington2is my ideal inspo.’

CATRIONA BURNS

Features Editor

‘Snow globes, paper decorations and candy canes never fail to spread some festive cheer – Elfhas so much inspo!’

KEY CONTRIBUTORS

And here are a few of the people we couldn’t have made this issue without…

Interior stylist Kyla Magrath gave her bedroom a boho makeover on page 108… ’My ultimate festive décor involves lots of sheepskin, branches of pine and fairy lights. I love the magical woodland vibe from The ChroniclesofNarnia.’

We catch up with the star of Escapeto theChâteau,Angel Strawbridge on page 128…‘I love the bygone style of WhiteChristmasand Miracleon34th Street. They make you want to put pin curls in your hair and sprinkle everything with snow dust!’

See how interior stylist and writer, Emma Fishman styled our cover star Bili’s living room for Christmas on page 102… ‘The cottage in TheHoliday,with its wooden beams and roaring fire, looks like the perfect place to snuggle up for a cosy Christmas.’

EDITORIAL

Editor Kirstie Duhig

Art Editor Emily Waite

Deputy Art Editor Olivia Watkins

Features Editor Catriona Burns

Senior Production Editor Katie Nicholls

Staff Writers Hannah Tribe & Katie Dutton

Senior Digital Editor Cinead McTernan

Digital Editor Rebecca Messina

Digital Writer Thea Jeffreys

ADVERTISING

Group Advertising Manager Laura Jones

Advertising Manager Heather Golden Business Development Manager Phil Wallington

Brand Sales Executives James Beckett, Dan Fauzi

Classified Sales Executive Alex Armstrong Ad Co-ordinator Bryony Grace

Senior Ad Designers Andrew Hobson, Cee Pike

MARKETING AND PRODUCTION

Subscriptions Director Jacky Perales-Morris

Direct Marketing Executive Emma Hunter Director of Licensing and Syndication Tim Hudson

Syndication Manager Richard Bentley

Production Director Sarah Powell

Production Manager Emily Mounter

Production Co-ordinator Lauren Morris

PR Manager Toby Hicks

PUBLISHING

Managing Director Marie Davies Head of Brand Marketing Rosa Sherwood

Group Managing Director Andy Marshall CEO Tom Bureau

CONTACT

HomeStyle at Our Media Ltd, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST Advertising enquiries: Tel: 0117 300 8805

Subscription enquiries: Email: buysubscriptions.com/contact Tel: UK 03330 162 139; US/Canada: 855 827 8639 (toll free); Rest of the world +44(0)1604 973748

Editorial enquiries Email: homestyle@ourmedia.co.uk Tel: 0117 927 9009

© Our Media Ltd (an Immediate Group Company) 2022, member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations. Unsolicited manuscripts and transparencies are accepted on the understanding that the publisher incurs no liability for their storage or return. The contents of this magazine may not be reproduced without permission. All prices are correct at the time of going to press. The publisher, editor and authors accept no responsibility in respect of any products, goods or services that may be advertised or referred to in this issue or for any errors, omissions, misstatements or mistakes in any such advertisements or references. HomeStyle is published by Our Media Ltd (an Immediate Group Company), Eagle House, Bristol, BS1 4ST, UK. Every effort has been made to secure permission for copyright material. In the event of any material being used inadvertently, or where it proved impossible to trace the copyright owner, acknowledgment will be made in a future issue. Our Media Ltd is working to ensure that all of its paper is sourced from well-managed forests. This magazine can be recycled. We abide by IPSO’s rules and regulations. To give feedback about our magazines, please visit immediate.co.uk, email editorialcomplaints@ immediate.co.uk or write to Legal Director, Immediate Media Co, Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, London, W6 7BT.

DOBBIES

Glow up

Fairy lights have stepped up their game recently, with options like light-up eucalyptus garlands and pre-lit twig tree ornaments now available. One place that always delivers on the twinkly light front is Anthropologie, and we can’t get enough of its 2022 winter range, which includes these colourful reflective designs in both a garland and sweet heart-shaped wreath. Drape them over a mirror for double the sparkle or along a bookshelf. You can shop them in store or online at anthropologie.com

£38,

TheWishlist

Welcome to our edit of the latest collections, collaborations and releases. Here’s what we’re excited about this month...

Christmas candle starter set with forever holder and wax refill, £35; Christmas wreath and tablet scented decorations, £15 each, Constant Candle

WEARE LOVING ... Gift boxes

Whether it’s the upcoming holiday, a birthday, or a loved-one who is in need of a boost, Walter & May’s gift box range has got you covered. Its care packages can be customised to include a range of pampering treats, such as teas, face cloths, ceramic mugs, dried floral bouquets and cosy socks, or you can browse from a range of pre-made boxes to suit different tastes. The price points are great too, with boxes of three gifts starting from as little as £18. walterandmay.co.uk

Blue socks cosy night in Christmas gift box, £25, Walter & May

Eternal flame

Enjoy the gift that keeps on giving this Christmas with a beautiful, zero-waste, refillable candle. Constant Candle use only vegan, toxic-free ingredients and ethically sourced botanical blends that smell incredible. Each wax pot starter set comes with a ‘forever holder’, a beautiful handmade pot made by Somerset ceramicist Bridget Hemmings. The new limited-edition festive range has three fresh scents: Winter; a heady mix of blackcurrant and rose; Joyeux, a warm blend of vanilla, almond and amber; and Noel, a woody and spicy scent with notes of vanilla, eucalyptus, orange and cinnamon. You can also bag a stylish and packaging-free waxtablet decoration that can be hung up around the home as an eco-friendly alternative to diffusers. The festive collection starts at £15 from constantcandle.co.uk

Confetti LED string lights, £28; confetti LED heart wreath,

both Anthropologie

save vs splurge

In

Softstore.co

Be transported to the south of France and the heady days of summer with the pastel shades and playful designs of Softstore.co’s carefully curated homewares. These are investment pieces to cherish and we love the shapely vases and drinking glasses with quirky figurines inside. softstore.co

Lila hand painted candle holder, Oliver Bonas

Delftware candle holder, Courthouse Interiors

Classic paint brand Valspar has just unveiled its swish new luxury paint line, V&CO, aimed at DIYers with a penchant for the finer things. You don’t need to shell out a fortune for a tub though, priced at £42 per 2.5L, this is a more affordable luxe paint product than some of the competing brands. The range comes in 45 bespoke colours in a Dead Flat Matt finish that gives a high level of paint coverage and impressive depth of colour. We’re dreaming of this ocean blue hue, Blue Shade 4, that is reminding us of sunny days Available in store at B&Q and online at diy.com

her second book, TheArtof LivingwithWhite, Chrissie Rucker – founder of The White Company –steps into 10 neutral interiors, all with a white palette at their heart. From a New England country house to a stripped-back city apartment, these homes illustrate the endlessly inventive ways to use white and how to adapt it through the seasons. The Art of Living with White: A Year of Inspiration (Mitchell Beazley, £35) is out now.

White Christmas

Feature Katie Dutton

Cosy up

Reindeer jumper Christmas bauble, £4.50, Matalan

HOMESTYLE LOVES!

Make a wish

Felt fairy tree topper, £10 each, Habitat

Snuggle sock

Southwold stocking in Warm White and Brick, £20, Garden Trading

First class

Joy felt envelope decoration, £3, Wilko

STYLE INSIDER

felt cute

Add instant character with this squishable trend

Snuggle up to these gorgeous buys that are full of homespun charm. Soft felt is great for creating forgiving decorations that can handle being played with by kids (and pets!) and won’t break when they’re stuffed away for next year. Felt is also great for DIY decorations too. Make ‘paper’ chains by joining loops made from simple strips of this fantastic fabric.

Hoppy holidays

Community Garden felt rabbit in scarf tree decoration, £6, John Lewis & Partners

Merry Chris-mouse

Mouse star wool tree topper, £24.99, Gisela Graham

Save a place

Red Scandi felt placemat, £4.50 for two, Dunelm

Soft nut

Hanging felt mini acorns, £8 for a set of five, National Trust shop

SUSTAINABLE

Sheep eat grass and grow wool, each year they are shorn to keep them cool in summer, they then eat grass and produce more wool.

ENVIROMENTALLY FRIENDLY

Sheep walk around our hills and dales keeping the grass down and fertilising future grass growth as they go. There are no chemicals involved, no intensive farming processes and wool is the natural by product.

BIODEGRADABLE

You dig a hole and pop the whole pot into it and after it’s protected the plant it turns into delicious bio rich food, whilst protecting your plant from slugs.

CLEAN & GREEN

Our pots are knitted from raw washed wool so there are no chemicals and minimal biodegradable packaging.

THINGS TO DO IN...

DECEMBER

Easy updates and sparkling seasonal style ideas to try this month…

Prints charming WEEKEND PROJECT

If you have a bumper collection of tester pots and leftover paint from decorating projects this year, why not use them up by making something you’ll definitely need this season – wrapping paper! Pick up a roll of budgetfriendly kraft paper and have a rummage at the bottom of your fridge for an old potato. Cut the potato in half and draw a simple shape onto the cut surface. Cut away the excess potato, then paint the shape before pressing it down onto the paper to make a perfect print!

Chalk Paint in Athenian Black, £6.95 per 120ml, Annie Sloan

SCAN ME to head to our fab faux tree guide at yourhomestyle.uk

Pick up a pocket-sized icon

Anthropologie has launched an adorable range of tree decorations this year that are scaled-down versions of some of its most popular designs, just like the Primrose mirror, shown here.

If you want a reliable Christmas look, year after year, your best bet is to choose a faux tree. These dependable decorations can be pulled out of the attic to instantly create a fabulous display –and you won’t need to traipse around the shops trying to find a real tree that’s your ideal shape! You may find that the artificial tree you love is a bit on the expensive side, but think of it as an investment, as the price of real trees increases, you’ll be spending less in the long run. To find your perfect tree, head to yourhomestyle.uk and search ‘artificial tree’ or scan the QR code above with your phone camera, to read our guide to the best faux trees on the market this year.

‘Wren Kitchens brought our dream space to life’

Nine years after buying their home, Olga and oan knew how they wanted their family kitchen to look, but it wasn’t until they visited Wren that their vision became a reality

When Olga and her husband, oan, bought their home in 2012, it was clear the house needed a lot of work, but the couple could see it had plenty of potential. Rather than tackling the renovation bit by bit, they decided to wait until they could renovate and extend their home all at once.

In 2021, renovations finally got underway, with the couple and their children, 10-year-old David and eight-year-old Evelyna, continuing to live in the house throughout the process. ‘We managed to go through it all without getting a divorce!’ laughs Olga.

First on the to-do list was the kitchen. Living a 15-minute drive from the Wren showroom in Romford, Olga had often admired the kitchen

displays in the window. ‘I was always curious,’ she explains, ‘and I convinced my husband to stop by as I liked what I saw in the window.’

MAKING IT A REALITY

With a clear view of the kind of kitchen she wanted – ‘modern but with traditional elements; a transitional design’ – Olga met with Wren designer, Shanyda, to help bring her vision to life. ‘Shanyda was very helpful,’ says Olga, ‘she gave us lots of ideas and solutions.’ Wanting a practical but stylish design, Olga picked out white units offset with black accents, including the Samsung American-style fridge-freezer, plus marble-effect Quartz Treviso worktops that match the wall tiles and wooden floors.

From catching up after school to baking sweet treats, the spacious kitchen island is now the hub of the family home

Clever storage, like this pull-out pantry tower, helps keep the space neat and tidy and ties in with the kitchen’s sleek design

‘I love the colour contrast between the white kitchen and the black fridge,’ says Olga. ‘It looks very modern and sleek.’ Along with Shanyda’s expert advice, Olga says using 3D renders to see how their kitchen would look proved particularly useful. ‘They helped reassure us that everything was as we’d pictured in our minds.’

In fact, after seeing the 3D renders, the couple changed part of the original design. Initially planning an L-shaped space, they thought it looked too crowded when they saw it on screen, so they decided to switch to a more simple layout.

The couple loved just how interactive the whole experience with Wren was and enjoyed being involved with the process from start to finish – oan even installed the kitchen himself.

‘It took him two-to-three days to install,’ Olga explains. ‘Wren’s instructions were very clear, so he didn’t have any issues.’

FAVOURITE FEATURES

To keep things as straightforward as possible, the couple were pleased to discover that they could buy all their kitchen appliances directly from Wren. Olga particularly likes the built-in oven and microwave: ‘It’s very easy to keep clean and it also saves worktop space!’ she says, while the pull-out pantry tower makes day-to-day tasks that little bit easier. ‘You can just pull it out and find whatever it is you’re looking for straight away.’

SOCIABLE SPACE

The whole family love the new space. As the main cook in the house, Olga is delighted with how much room she has for food prep and storage, while the hub of the home is now the spacious island. ‘When David and Evelyna come back from school, they love to sit there and tell me stories about their day,’ says Olga.

As hoped, the kitchen really comes into its own when entertaining guests and, thanks to the new sociable layout, hosting has become a real family affair. ‘While I cook, oan takes on the role of bartender. We even have matching aprons,’ says Olga. ‘Our daughter likes to set the table and our son pretends to be the waiter –he even puts a towel around his arm!’

With the beautiful kitchen transformation now complete, the couple are thrilled with how their new space has turned out. ‘I am really pleased with the design and the overall process,’ says Olga. ‘I always recommend Wren to my friends as the quality is great.’

Black accents, like the set of dining chairs and American-style fridge-freezer, pop against the Infinity J Pull kitchen in White

Turn a recessed space into a display shelf style idea

Welcome to my home

A BIT ABOUT ME

I’m Anna Hill, 42, a freelance print designer for Farrow & Ball. I live with my partner, Julian Jackson, 46, who works in ocean conservation policy, and our two children, Bonnie, seven and Dylan, four. You can find me on Instagram @anna_likes_design.

WHERE I LIVE

I live in a detached three-bed Edwardian house in Molesey, Surrey, which was built in 1911. We’ve lived here for four years having bought it in August 2018.

WHAT I WANTED TO CHANGE

The house needed a bit of work and lots of love and attention. It had so much potential but was quite plainly decorated. I wanted to fill it with colour and personality.

HOW I MADE IT MY OWN

Although we haven’t carried out any major works, we’ve done a lot to the interior details. I replaced the missing period features, like Edwardian fireplaces, and chose décor from different eras for a sense of history.

MY FAVOURITE PART

Our living room feels like a 1930s salon room – all soft colours, plants and collected objects.

My story

I’m always itching to put up the Christmas tree as soon as December hits. There’s nothing better than hanging baubles with my children and listening to some classic Christmas tunes with a mulled wine in hand. Although I like the colours to sit well with my home and style, there’s no limit on sparkle!

Our house wasn’t always as colourful as it is now. It was very plain, but as soon as we walked in, the house felt so interesting – it’s like a rabbit warren. I was intrigued by all the rooms leading off each other and quirky little details like the recessed area in the dining room. It had character.

I like to imagine the house when it was built in 1911, prime Arts and Crafts era, which is why I chose William Morris wallpaper for the hallway. Then I like to think about the house moving through the times – and different interior styles – into the Art Deco period, so that really came into my living room design. There’s a way to make all the styles work together! We’ve done almost all of the DIY ourselves. I tiled the hallway floor and the living room fireplace and Julian did all the plumbing.

Our house feels so homely and cosy now and it’s got a real sense of history mixed with modernity. The next thing on my wish list is to have a proper Edwardian-style stained-glass front door, but that’s out of our budget right now... one day!

Feature and styling Laurie Davidson Style assistant Faye Korol Photos David Giles

Dining room

‘We have a faux Christmas tree as, although I adore the smell of a real one, I’m not keen on the dropping needles. This year I’ve gone for a mix of pink, mint and rose gold decorations to complement the walls, painted in Pink Drab by Farrow & Ball. The fireplace wasn’t here when we moved in – I found this old reclaimed cast-iron design, stripped it back and repainted it. It looks beautiful styled up with a garland and candles for Christmas.’

Anna says the coloured cabinet from Barker and Stonehouse is the most useful piece of furniture in the house. ‘It’s great to have lots of drawers for organising bits, especially when you have children,’ she says. The little drinks table was a Facebook Marketplace find, which Anna bought for £10 and painted

Make a bouquet go further by separating the flowers into bud vases, like Anna has done. A garland from Next and micro lights from Lights4fun add a festive finishing touch while the painting is by Anna. 'I wanted a floral picture but couldn't find anything I liked,' she says.

'I wanted something that would tie all the colours in the room together. I used pastels, oils and spray paint'

Colourful crackers from Cath Kidston add a sweet touch to the place settings. Each one contains a selection of body washes in three different scents

Kitchen

‘The kitchen and what we call our “garden room” was already open-plan when we moved in, but it had plain white walls and little decoration. I liked the colour of the wooden doors that lead out into the garden, so I added some mid-century modern furniture to match. I’m in love with this area now I’ve wallpapered it – it’s definitely a rival for my affections.’

'Some of the rooms have low natural light so I have to really consider where I put the plants. I have faux plants, too so the darker spaces still have greenery'

‘I updated the kitchen units by painting them in Pitch Black by Farrow & Ball, and then added reeded film to the glass,' Anna explains

The shelving unit is a Facebook Marketplace find. ‘It didn’t come with legs, so I bought some mint green hairpin ones from eBay, says Anna. ‘It’s an ongoing labour of love to fill the shelves with little treasured finds. The walls are papered in Shouchikubai from Farrow & Ball and the sofa is from Wayfair'

Mince pies from Aldi served on a marble chopping board are a delicious seasonal snack

Hanging utensils, rather than storing them in a drawer, means they’re all close to hand when cooking

This house had so much potential and we both felt it straight away

Living room

‘This is my favourite room in the house. It was fairly bland when we moved in, but I could see its potential in the picture rail and coving. It was also dark blue on the walls, which isn’t to my taste, so I repainted them in Farrow & Ball’s Peignoir with Pale Powder on the ceiling.

The fireplace was a lovely cast-iron finish, but was plain inside, and as I’m a tile obsessive I really wanted to change that! I tiled it myself and I really feel it’s the focus point of the room now.’

Anna chose some beautiful bottle green tiles from Tiles Direct, which have an aged mottled texture, and tiled the inner fireplace and hearth. ‘This room has always been my calm oasis,’ she says. ‘Because I decorated it in muted colours and added Art Deco-style lamps and lighting, it’s really cosy, especially in the winter evenings’

I like to imagine the house moving through the times and different interior styles

‘My leather sofa is from Barker and Stonehouse, while the rug is from Wayfair. The mint coffee table is from Habitat and it started life in a royal blue colour. I just loved the shape and so I primed and painted it and bought a marble platter, which I fixed on top with strong adhesive. It’s the side table of dreams!’

STEAL MY STYLE

Get Anna’s soft and sweet home style with these buys

Pastel LED taper candles, £24.99, Lights4fun

HOMESTYLE LOVES!

Seedheads wallpaper by Ohpopsi, £69 per roll, Wallpaper Direct

Christmas bow tree topper, £22, Next

Hallway

‘I learnt pretty quickly there was a lot I wanted to do in the house and to hire people every time would blow the budget, so I researched DIY tiling and did the hallway myself. I wanted to bring the drama of the Edwardian era into the hall and so I papered below the dado with Anaglypta (vintage textured) wallpaper and painted it grey, while the Simply Strawberry Thief wallpaper from Morris & Co brings colour and fun to the space.’ make

this beaded frame p34

A garland from Balsam Hill runs up the banister, while a Christmas sack from Cath Kidston brings extra colour. The floor tiles are from The Baked Tile Company and the Magpie stair runner is from Stair Runners Direct

Anna upcycled the frame to create a bespoke design that matched with her hallway décor. The picture is a Matisse print from Etsy

‘My bedspread is from Oliver Bonas – I just couldn’t resist its wiggly, hand-drawn effect,’ says Anna. ‘I made the lampshades for the bedside lights using plain shades from Argos, which I then covered with a vintage fabric bought on Etsy. To finish, I added a velvet ribbon trim'

Maser bedroom

‘I’m a history lover so I’ve taken inspiration from the past for many of the rooms – National Trust properties have endless inspiration for me! This has influenced the colours I’ve chosen and the wallpaper pattern I’ve used in this room. Our bed was very plain – nice and solid, but with no personality. We’d had it a few years and instead of buying a new one, I decided to just work with it so I hand-painted the headboard.

It was actually really fun just free-hand painting whatever patterns came to mind, and I added the wooden bobbin shapes for some texture.

I also painted the bedside tables in a pastel shade and painted the ceiling in Farrow & Ball’s Calamine for a soft effect.’

How to update a lampshade

Anna covered an existing lampshade in fabric, but if you’d like to make your own from scratch, try a lampshade making kit – there's a good selection online.

Choose a fabric to cover your existing shade and cut a piece that’s larger than the lampshade by at least an inch on all sides. Make sure the fabric is well ironed.

Using a specialised lampshade glue, stick the fabric to the lampshade. Apply glue to the

lampshade and smooth the fabric onto it, bit by bit, to ensure you avoid creases.

Fold over the edges of the extra fabric at the top and bottom of the lampshade and glue neatly – it’s easier to do this with your lampshade off the base.

Add a trim to the bottom or top of your shade, using the lamp glue again. Press it down firmly to secure and leave to dry before using your lamp.

Brighten up your bedside table, like Anna, with this creative upcycle

Bathroom

‘As I’d already tiled my fireplace and hallway, I felt brave enough to rip all the wall and floor tiles out in the bathroom and re-tile it myself. I really wanted a mosaic style to give the space a bohemian, handmade feel and I knew a soft pink colour would warm up the space. It’s quite a small bathroom so I could afford to splash out on these beautiful Sakura floor tiles from Otto Tiles. I still love to just stare at them! I updated the base units by attaching wooden dowels and painting them in Farrow & Ball’s Dix Blue. The spot voile curtain is from The Range. I added it as a second layer on top of the waterproof shower curtain to give a soft, homely feel.’

The white tiger throw is actually a rug from La Redoute. ‘I love that it can be used as both,' says Anna

Dylan’s bedroom

When they first moved in, Dylan’s bedroom had damp damage due to chimney issues. ‘There’s always something with an older house!’ says Anna. Once that was fixed, Anna got to work giving the room some love, painting it in Farrow & Ball’s Light Blue and papering the walls in Parlour Palm from Scion. Realising it would have had a fireplace at some time in its past, she found an Edwardian design on eBay. ‘It needed tons of work,’ she admits. ‘I had to fully strip it, sand it and fix a crack, before priming and painting it the same colour as the walls. To finish, I added Memphis tiles from Artisan of Devizes.'

Bonnie’s bedroom

‘I’m really not a fan of bright, loud shades – I’ve always found them distracting – so any colours I use are on the pastel scale, without too much contrast. For Bonnie’s room, I went with Peignoir by Farrow & Ball. If your walls and ceilings have a soft balance, it’s much easier to layer up with brighter accessories. I added texture to the walls using beautiful Anaglypta wallpaper named Alexandra. It has a really subtle floral motif and just felt so fun for her room without being overpowering.’

'Bonnie's bedding is from TK Maxx and the velvet chair is from Homebase. In the trunk at the end of the bed are all of Bonnie’s favourite stuffed toys. The doll’s house is from Great Little Trading Co. I love that it matches the room so well’

What I learned

Think about your own taste and don’t get too caught up on what’s trending right now. You’re the one who has to live in your home and feel comfortable.

There’s so much inspiration to find from personal experiences: places you’ve visited and artworks you’ve seen in galleries.

White isn’t the only ceiling shade – treat it as the fifth wall and play with colours.

‘The wall tiles are from Tiles Direct; the glaze shines as you move around the room'

The velvet mustard chair was a vintage eBay find and the swan cushion is from Franck & Fischer. Anna found the vintage mirror on Facebook Marketplace

We are offering HomeStylereaders the chance to stay in Always Sunday’s boutique getaway, Primrose Cottage, in the ancient city of Bath. This beautiful Georgian bolthole is the hotel offshoot of Always Sunday’s popular interior homeware store, and the cottage is full of vintage collections and curiosities.

The prize covers a night’s stay for you and a guest with the opportunity for you to immerse yourself in designer interiors, including wallpapers from design duo Divine Savages, bespokemade crockery and a wide range of original works from some of the best UK artists.

Wake from a night spent in a luxurious king size bed and start the day sipping on Always Sunday’s own in-house coffee, Morning Michigan, fresh from the pot in the fully equipped kitchen. Get ready in the Insta-worthy pink bathroom and prepare for a day

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

of sight-seeing. Step out the front door and you’re in the heart of Bath’s artisan hub, where independent shops and restaurants tempt you in with treats. Then explore Bath Abbey, the Roman Baths and The Holborn (where Bridgertonwas filmed!) – all just a stone’s throw away.

The lucky winner will also get to sample Always Sunday’s awardwinning food from its gastro pub, Town+House and receive a hamper of artisanal interior homewares from the brand’s high-street store.

Find out more about Always Sunday at wearealwayssunday.com

The stay must be taken between Tuesday to Thursday, redeemable from February 2023 to the end of the year excluding any bank holidays that may fall. The prize does not cover travel expenses. The prize does not cover any drinks, meals or food apart from those described. Always Sunday will get in touch with the winner to arrange the date of the stay. Prize draw closes on 24th January 2023 at 11.59pm. You must be 18 or over to enter. The prize draw is open to residents of the UK and Channel Islands only. Find full terms and conditions under the Always Sunday prize draw page at yourhomestyle.uk/win

MAKE THE LOOK

Beaded picture frame

YOU WILL NEED

narrow wooden frame to fit your picture (choose flat-edged rather than bevelled)

matt or gloss wood paint, in your choice of colour paint brushes natural split wood 15mm, 20mm or 25mm spheres, approx £2.99 for 50 from Amazon wood glue sandpaper (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1 Remove the backing panel and plexiglass or glass from your frame and set aside. If you’re upcycling an old frame, give it a sand to remove any flaking paint or varnish, then wipe off any dust.

2 Paint your frame with two coats of your chosen matt or gloss wood paint, allowing it to dry in between coats.

TOP TIP

3 Once your frame is dry, position the wooden spheres around the frame, ensuring that you have a sphere in each corner – these might need to overlap the edges of the frame a bit. Once you are happy with the positioning, stick each sphere in place using strong wood glue (we used Gorilla Glue). Then allow to dry fully.

4 Paint the spheres with two coats of your chosen wood paint, allowing it to dry between coats. Once the paint is fully dry, reassemble your frame and add your chosen print.

Anna’s stunning blue frame makes her artwork a focal point in the hallway

Feature Kirstie Duhig

Photo David Giles

Play around with different sized wooden spheres and a range of colours to create your perfect look

I love the modern country look with light neutral colours, so when I was designing our kitchen, I chose pale cream for the cupboards. The brushed brass handles and kitchen tap, and the open wooden shelves, also tie into the look. I like to mix modern with traditional, so I buy my accessories from second hand/ antique shops and small businesses. I’m really looking forward to decorating the barn for our first Christmas here. I love the traditional Scandi look with pale woods and a mix of old and new decorations. And we always have a real Christmas tree – you can’t beat that smell!

My home style is geared towards comfortable family living and the theme underpinning my home décor has a traditional feel. When we moved into our home, the hallway panelling was the main thing we loved. Although we tried to restore it, it was beyond saving so we removed it, saving as much as we could to be re-used when it was replaced. At Christmas, I decorate very traditionally with lots of reds and greens. Wreaths, garlands and twinkling lights don our hallway and staircase. @daydreaming.and.diy

FIREPLACE FINERY

Our house is a 1930s vicarage, which we have converted into an opulent family home with high ceilings, traditional large bay windows with stained glass in the hallway and landing space. Over the last eight years we have renovated the house with a romantic Victorian English theme throughout. This particular space, in our living room, is the centre of our home at Christmas. Citrus, berry, pine and eucalyptus foliage, with deep tones of red, green and gold, surround the open fire, making the space feel both regal and luxurious, and warm and inviting.

@consterdyne_house

A bedroom is a space that needs to radiate calmness and the simplicity of the Scandinavian style helped us to create this fresh, tranquil feeling. As we prepare for the festive season, the combination of Scandi and boho styles in our home will be the key inspiration for our Christmas decorations. As a lover of neutral tones, this time of year requires creativity to gently introduce vibrant colours. Shimmering golds and leafy greens can really make a difference. @renovating63

@acorn_barn_conversion

Welcome to my home

A BIT ABOUT ME

I’m Monika Nowak, 36, a support worker and I live with my two children, Anthony, 10, and Mia, six. I also sell wooden homeware at Facebook.com/ woodworks.creationsshop.

WHERE I LIVE

My home is a semi-detached threebedroom 1930s house in New Ferry, Merseyside. We moved in early 2019 and I share my renovation journey on my Instagram @monikas.home.

WHAT I WANTED TO CHANGE

Both the kitchen and bathroom felt too small, and the old-fashioned gas fires, textured wallpaper and built-in furniture just had to go.

HOW I MADE IT MY OWN

The kitchen and dining room were knocked through, along with the bathroom and toilet. I redecorated every room in a modern rustic style.

FAVOURITE PART

I love the DIY dining table. It was tricky to make but it’s the perfect size for the space and it really comes into its own during Christmas celebrations.

My story

I’d always wanted a house with character where I could renovate in the style I wanted. I wasn’t really looking, but a friend told us her neighbour’s house was up for sale. As soon as I walked in, I loved it. It had the perfect layout, the bedrooms were a good size and there was potential to take the wall down between the kitchen and dining room.

With two young children, it made sense to get the house re-wired and plastered while we were on holiday, nine days after moving in. My friends rallied round, helping to strip the walls ready for the electrician and plasterer coming.

I’ve done most of the work myself including tiling, fitting the kitchen units, wallpapering and panelling. Now that the kitchen and dining room have been knocked together, the house is perfect for Christmas. I’m originally from Poland and we have lots of festive traditions. On Christmas Eve we have a big dinner and swap presents. Then on Christmas Day, friends come over for more food. I always make too much!

I’ve always been creative and I started my Instagram account so that friends and family back in Poland could follow my renovation progress. I also love making candlesticks, wooden lanterns and clay Christmas decorations for our home. I’m actually hoping to move soon and I can’t wait to re-create a similar look in my next house.

Feature Karen Wilson Photos Katie Lee

shop Nordic frost p44

The chaise sofa is from the Charming Charlie collection by Miuform. ‘I love the simple design, yet the piping details make it more interesting, and there was a great choice of fabrics,’ says Monika. ‘It also opens up to a large bed.’ To cosy up the space, a long pile rug from Wayfair was chosen in a similar colour and the walls were painted in a taupe shade called On Deck by Wilko

MODERN RUSTIC SEMI

MY HOME WORKS SO WELL at Christmas

With a neutral backdrop, natural wood accents and oodles of soft, cosy textiles, Monika Nowak’s house is perfect for hosting her traditional Polish celebrations

Monika turned a shorter lamp from B&M into a floor lamp by adding wooden legs. Then she made the lampshade by gluing pieces of leftover wood onto the old shade. The reindeer cushion is from John Lewis & Partners. Monika loves making pieces from wood, such as these coffee tables fashioned from tree trunks. She now sells similar handmade homeware at Facebook.com/woodworks.creationsshop

Living room

‘The first thing I did was remove the built-in cupboards around the old gas fire and made the opening bigger for a wood-burner. As the carpets were in really good condition, I took them up so they wouldn’t get dirty during the renovation. That’s when I discovered the original wood parquet flooring underneath. I was so happy! After much research on YouTube, I decided to hire a sander for the first time and give the carpet away to friends. It took two days to do the whole downstairs and I finished it with a clear matt varnish for a natural look. At first, I had a more industrial style with elements of black metal, but it lacked warmth, so I added loads of wood and taupe to soften it. I’ve also experimented with floral wallpaper on one wall, MDF panelling on another and an upcycled IKEA Ivar cabinet in the corner. This room has all the features I love and I’m really happy with it.’

‘The wallpaper from Komar was the first thing that went on the walls,’ says Monika. ‘It was quite expensive but I just fell in love with it.’ The chest of drawers was a bargain buy from B&M

Monika gave the fireplace opening a rustic feel with brick slips and a wooden mantel before choosing monochrome patterned tiles from B&Q for the hearth. ‘They match the ones in the kitchen and the hearth in the dining room to link the spaces together,’ she says

Having knocked down the wall between the kitchen and dining room, this space works much better for family life now. ‘A few weeks before Christmas, I like to make Polish gingerbread cake and biscuits, which are spicier than English gingerbread,’ says Monika.

‘The kids really enjoy sitting at the stools (from Argos) and decorating them with me’. Monika has used 3D wood-effect wallpaper from Wallpaper Empire on the front of the island. ‘Since then, a few friends have got real wood slats, so I’m the only one with the fake ones now!’ she says

Kitchen

‘Designing the U-shaped kitchen was like a little puzzle.

I really wanted a pantry unit, so the door to the laundry room was made narrower to fit one in beside the hob. I also love the cupboard with the tambour door as it hides away the microwave, toaster and coffee machine. As I was short on space, the breakfast bar is made from wall cupboards on the floor. They’re narrower and fit perfectly. When it came to choosing the colour, I found a lovely stone kitchen in B&Q that had a timeless look.

I’ve teamed it with antique gold handles to add warmth.’

‘I wanted Metro tiles in the same formation and direction as the parquet flooring in the dining room, but the tiler said the space was too small and it would be too difficult,’ says Monika.

‘In the end I did it myself and he helped me out with the corners’

‘I love the chunky shelves (which I cut and waxed myself) and the industrial metal brackets,’ says Monika. ‘They’re great for things like spices’

Dining room

‘When I stripped the textured wallpaper in here, I discovered lots of writing on the walls underneath. I sent the seller some pictures and he remembered writing it with his sister as a child! The dated brick fireplace was also knocked out and I got the inside plastered before making a wood surround. As I wanted a really big table and couldn’t find anything suitable, I made it myself. It was quite a task as it involved gluing the wood together and strapping it tightly with a belt normally used for a car roof rack while it set. I also designed the chunky legs and bench, which I’ve recently re-upholstered with JF Ticking Fabric from Just Fabrics. The light was a DIY creation as well. I bought a wood beam, which I hung from chains, and added lots of nice bulbs. I got an electrician for the wiring. He said I’d done a good job.’

‘After finding a cream mirror in the attic and painting it black, I wanted a geometric shape behind it,’ says Monika. ‘Rather than painting the wall black, which would be difficult to paint over, I chose a wall sticker that can be peeled off easily’

‘It has a 3D effect so it’s almost as good as the real thing, and it comes in several shades so you can match it to your décor,’ she says

How to make a wood slat radiator cover

Make a feature out of this home essential with this easy DIY

Start by making a simple frame from pine batons and attach to the wall with flush mounts.

You’ll need to cut 3.5 x 2cm slats to the width and height of your radiator. Use a mitre saw to cut an angle where the long vertical pieces meet the short top pieces.

You could also try pre-cut MDF panelling strips that are meant for walls if you want a wider slat design.

Nail your long pieces to the front of the frame and the short pieces on top, making an L shape. Use another piece of wood as a spacer, leaving 1.2cm between each slat.

Monika used BRIWAX in medium brown to finish the wood. You could also prime and paint it the same colour as your walls to blend in, or pick a contrasting colour to make it stand out. Spray paint is easier to apply.

Monika’s DIY dining table is perfect for Christmas when friends and family gather to sample her traditional Polish food. She’s also opted for a feature wall of wood panelling wallpaper from Wallpaper Empire.

Create a sense of flow by painting table and seating legs in the same accent colour as other furniture

style idea

while the DIY bamboo ladder was made from cane picked up at Home Bargains

Master bedroom

‘This room felt quite enclosed before as there were built-in cupboards all around the bed. They were ripped out and the walls re-plastered. The circle design behind the bed was originally a peachy colour, but I changed it to green last Christmas. I made the tray from a round piece of wood, which was cleaned and varnished before I drilled holes to attach the rope handles. I love using it to have breakfast in bed. To finish the room, I’ve added natural accents, like the shelf, cane bedside tables, a wooden beaded chandelier and loads of plants.’

Bathroom

‘The tiny bathroom and toilet used to be separate, but the wall was knocked through so the space is much more practical now. I really wanted black fittings and black grout in here as it’s easier to keep clean while the monochrome vinyl flooring ties it all together. The vanity unit is actually a kitchen drawer cupboard from B&Q with a kitchen worktop on top. There are lots of size options so you can easily find something to fit your space. I've also used a wooden serving board as a bath bridge where I like to display candles – it works really well!'

Monochrome vinyl flooring from Best4Flooring brings impact to the new bathroom, which features kitchen units converted into a vanity unit and black fittings for a contemporary look

I,ve always been creative and I started my Instagram account so that friends and family in Poland could follow my renovation progress

A boho bedside table from B&M works well with lots of plants,

Mia's bedroom

‘When we first moved in, I let Mia pick some wallpaper and she chose one with massive pink roses. It was up for a while, but it was too overwhelming and wasn’t really working with the rest of the house. Instead, I painted a scalloped wall in an accent colour called Peach Blush by Valspar that Mia chose. She used to have a houseshaped bed like Anthony’s, but the room was too small to fit much else in. Instead, I built a bed into the curved wall with storage underneath.’

‘I made the bed canopy myself from voile attached to a wooden crochet ring,’ says Monika. The Christmas tree duvet cover is from B&M and the peacock lamp is from George Home

‘Anthony loves rhinos so there are lots of pictures of them in his room, which I found online and printed off,’ says Monika. ‘It all started when he adopted a rhino from the WWF and was sent a toy and certificate’

Anthony's bedroom

‘There are a couple of different feature walls in here. I painted a terrazzo effect on one wall and the wall behind his bed is covered in little cross stickers. During lockdown we had a desk in here for home schooling, but Anthony prefers the hammock chair in this space. I bought it after getting rid of an outdoor swing chair, which had become like a trapeze for the kids! This is a much more chilled-out design from JYSK.’

Monika made the wooden bed herself, while double-sided Christmas bedding from B&M gives Anthony’s room a fresh new look during the festive season. The same bedding is flipped in Mia’s room

What I learned

You can save money by making things yourself. For instance, I saw some beautiful £30 candlesticks but made my own from clay and painted them. They’re more special because they’re one-offs.

With panelling, I usually cut out paper shapes first and stick them on the wall with Blu Tack. Then if it’s too wide or too thin, I can try again before I cut the wood or MDF.

Warm water and washing-up liquid is the best way to remove wallpaper. I’ve used a steamer and wallpaper removing solutions before, but this is the easiest and quickest way.

MAKE THE LOOK

Channel tufted bench cushion

Upcycle a plain wooden bench, like Monika, with this fun upholstery project

YOU WILL NEED

wooden bench with a seat that extends beyond its legs black wood paint (optional) ticking stripe fabric heavy duty staple gun and staples firm upholstery foam fabric scissors ruler and pencil craft knife cardboard upholstery back tack strip – try The Millshop Online

INSTRUCTIONS

1 If desired, paint the legs of your bench black. Let dry. Mark the centre line across the width of your bench. Working out from the centre in either direction, mark lines at 15cm intervals. Then staple a line of tack strip along each of your markings.

2 Cut strips of foam to 15cm x the width of your bench, plus enough excess foam to wrap around the edge of the bench on either side. Then cut out strips of the fabric to 30cm x the width of your foam, plus 20cm. Make sure you cut out your fabric so that the direction of the pattern is consistent.

3 Lay a strip of fabric over the end of your bench with right side facing up and an equal amount of fabric extending off the edges. Line up the edge of your fabric with the first tack strip line then staple it down. Lay a second piece of fabric over the first, with the right side facing downwards this time. Line up your fabric edge with the tack strip line again, then place another piece of tack strip on top. Staple through all the layers, then fold the fabric back over the tack strip, right side up.

TOP TIP

Use any leftover fabric to make co-ordinating seat pads for your dining chairs

4 Place a piece of foam under your flap of fabric between your tack strip lines. Pull the fabric taut over the foam until you form a smooth dome, then staple in place along the next tack strip. Repeat with all your foam and fabric strips until the top of the bench is completely covered – leaving the ends of the bench unstapled.

5 Slip a strip of foam under the first fabric flap, then turn the bench over. Fold the excess fabric along the two short edges of the bench first. Pull the fabric taut and then staple into position to the base of the bench. Repeat along the long edges, starting at the centre and working outward, folding the corners neatly. To finish, trim any excess fabric close to the staple line.

Monika’s chic striped cushions add softness to her rustic dining room

Make Heather Nugent

Photo Katie Lee

Robyn’s living room has been through a lot of looks in the five years she has owned the house. Now, it’s contemporary and colourful with a blend of bright and softer tones.

‘I love decorating the tree with my little ones,’ says Robyn, ‘even if I do have to rearrange some baubles. Most of these decorations are from Next’

Robyn

My story

I randomly came across this house one day during a routine Zoopla search. It seemed to tick all my boxes – it had a couple of bedrooms, outside space, and was in a good location – so I booked a viewing right away. I knew as soon as I walked in that it had the potential to be the vibrant and happy home that I had envisaged creating for my family. It was a little outdated on the inside, but nothing that a lick of fresh paint and some DIY know-how couldn’t fix. Thankfully, my offer was accepted – that was the easy part. Getting a mortgage, on the other hand, was a nightmare. It was an incredibly stressful period,

particularly as my son Benjamin was only a baby at the time, but it was well worth it. We bought the property from a family, and when we eventually got the keys, they had left us some lovely gifts. It just confirmed that we had done the right thing in choosing this as our home – it’s the one thing I’ll never regret spending so much money on.

The interior needed a lot of love, and I knew I had my work cut out for me. There was dated wallpaper, cheap flooring, and some colour clashes bright enough to give you a headache. However, I’ve decorated room by room and filled the space with bright colours, fun prints, and oodles of personality. I’ve lived in lots of houses in my life, and now I finally feel settled.

Welcome to my home

A BIT ABOUT ME

I’m Robyn Duffy, 28, an advanced nurse practitioner. I live here with my children, Benjamin, six, and Madeleine, three. I post about my interior journey on Instagram @colourfulcastlebank.

WHERE I LIVE

My home is a two-bedroom 1950s semi in Cupar, Fife, Scotland. I’ve lived here for five years.

WHAT I WANTED TO CHANGE

Pretty much everything! It was very basic with some odd colour clashes that used to drive me crazy.

HOW I MADE IT MY OWN

I’ve got creative with colour and painted the rooms in sunny, happy tones and decorated with second-hand bargains and on-trend buys from the high street. For me, it was about creating a home I could be proud of and telling my children that mummy did it by herself.

MY FAVOURITE PART

Either the gold leaf ceiling or my gold sink and tap, both of which are in the bathroom. The sink isn’t the most practical with toothpaste marks but it’s amazing regardless.

Feature Abbi Henderson

Styling Alison Gibb Photos Douglas Gibb

Voile curtains allow sunlight to stream through while providing privacy

style idea

Living room

‘The living room had old, floral wallpaper and magnolia-painted walls. It also had cheap laminate flooring that has been down for ages but I wasn’t in a position to replace it when I did the rest of the room makeover. It’s a really big room with an Artex ceiling, so it’s quite tricky to get right and, as such, it’s had a few different looks. I removed the wallpaper and painted the room green, but it felt too cold. Then, I put up panelling and painted it dark blue but, again, it was too cold and dark. I finally realised I wanted something a little more calming. Now, it’s a gentle orange colour that is still fun, but much more mellow. The floor will eventually be replaced but, in the meantime, I love having the cosy rug to bring the whole scheme together.’

STEAL MY STYLE

I feel incredibly grateful to have a home I can have fun with

Hallway

‘This was by far the worst room in the house. It had a laminate floor, but red carpet running up the stairs and bright yellow walls. When I was around 30 weeks pregnant with Maddie, I had a surge of hormones and, in a tantrum, painted the walls grey to hide the yellow as I’d had enough of looking at it. It was only a couple of months later that I ripped the carpet out and repainted again – this time with much more success!’

‘My mum gave me a few posters and it started the whole gallery wall obsession. Since then, I’ve always looked out for unique prints and frames. As soon as I walk through my front door, I see all these amazing prints I’ve collected that show off the house’s quirkiness.’ Robyn buys bargain frames for her gallery wall from TK Maxx and local photography shops before upcycling them with spray paint

How to shop second-handfor furniture

Buy preloved for quality pieces at a pocket-friendly price

Know what you’re looking for, and the specification. If it’s a unit you’re after, have the space you plan on putting it in measured before hitting the shops. Note your doorway measurements, too, to ensure the piece you buy will fit through, and think about any additional practicalities, such as specific material requirements.

Use websites such as Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace and eBay to search for furnishings. You can set notifications on eBay, so that when something is listed that matches your criteria, you’ll be notified.

Search local charity shops and reclamation yards. Take a tape measure with you and be sure to thoroughly check the quality of the item. Also, make sure any furnishings that should have fire labels on do.

‘All of the living room furniture is either second-hand buys or family hand-me-downs, including the beautiful solid oak coffee table’

Kitchen

‘When we first moved in the kitchen was, in a word, awful. It was cheap, falling to bits, and painful to look at. What’s even more terrible is that I, rather impulsively, painted it grey to try to make it better. Needless to say, it didn’t work, and it wasn’t long before I fixed it by going to the very opposite of the spectrum with full-on colour. I painted the cabinets in two different shades, so that the room wouldn’t look too dark. I know it might not be to everyone’s taste, but I always get compliments on it and I never get bored of looking at it.’

Robyn used vinyl to upcycle the worktops instead of replacing them. The cabinets are the originals from when Robyn moved in – she gave them a refresh using paint and new handles from Amazon

My kitchen might not be to everyone,,s taste, but I never get bored of looking at it

A washable rug is an affordable way to update hard flooring - and it’s warmer in the winter too

style idea

Dining area

‘When I was growing up, teatimes were very family-orientated – it was a time to catch up with each other at the table with no phones. I’m so grateful for it and now I try to do the same with my children. I’m a nurse so I often work at Christmas. A job change has meant I’ll be off this year, and I can’t wait. It’s always very busy, but great fun with the kids! Christmas Eve is normally a panic to wrap and lay everything out, but on the day itself it’s all about getting together over food. My mum is a fantastic cook, so I’ve learnt a thing or two. I love going bold with my Christmas décor –the brighter the better – and, of course, this means a colourful table setting.’

‘My table and chairs were a steal from Facebook Marketplace that I upcycled using a hot pink colour from Frenchic Paint. My tablecloth is from Eleanor Bowmer, who I am obsessed with, and the rug is another total bargain from George Home. I got the IKEA Kallax unit when I was 16 and living on my own, and I’ve kept it all this time. Earlier this year, I decided to make doors for it to hide the kids’ toys that were scattered all over the room. I finished it off with lilac paint and new handles from Zara Home. I absolutely love it now – it’s a proper statement piece. The wall panelling is painted in Copper Blush by Dulux’

‘Painting this wavy line around the door frame was a total impulse move but I love it. I’d seen other people doing the same on Instagram so I thought I’d give it a go. I wanted something that would stand out against the white wall and this lilac definitely does that. I loved it so much I painted the radiators in the same shade, too. The basket from B&M makes a perfect plant pot’

‘The bust vase was a gift from the amazing Lesley @mannequin_credence. She makes some amazing things and this vase is one of my favourite pieces in the house’

Master bedroom

style idea

‘I used affordable fake ivy and fairy lights to create this feature above my bed. It’s perfect for bedtime when I’m reading a good book’. Robyn used a scaffold board to create a rustic-style shelf and brightened her bedroom with colourful bedding, artwork and accessories

There was a strategy behind painting the bedroom in a dark colour. ‘I’ve done night shifts for years and since I painted it dark it’s been much easier to sleep, even during the day,’ says Robyn. ‘Nurses on no sleep might be common but it isn’t much fun!’

‘This bedroom was originally the kids’ room but because it can get quite cold in here during the winter, I decided to swap with them. I wanted this space to be dark and cosy with pops of colour, and I think I can safely say I nailed the brief. Fun fact: the dotty wall behind the disco planter was created by me and Benjamin using black paint and a few halved potatoes on forks. We had great fun that day! Now, this room is a real cosy haven – I love it!’ make

disco ball plant pot p58

this

Use hooks to hang greenery from the ceiling

I wanted this room to be dark and cosy

Robyn chose her bedlinen to coordinate with her headboard. The Ayanna reversible duvet cover and pillowcase set in Teal (£26 for a double) are from Dunelm

‘I used one of the kids’ bowls to create the scallop wall mural. It’s personal, and suits them both without being overly babyish or too grown-up. I’ll be sad the day they ask me to change it’. Robyn bought the bunk bed, originally from IKEA, secondhand for just £20. She upcycled it by adding slats to the bottom bunk, so the mattress was raised from the floor, and refreshed it with a lick of paint from Frenchic

Bathroom

‘The bathroom transformation was a bit of a nightmare, due to poor planning. It’s such a small room, I just wanted to change the toilet position to make more space, but it all escalated to the point where the only element of the room not being updated, due to budget limitations, was the tiles. I shopped high and low for a counter for the sink. I ended up getting a bit of kitchen countertop for free that I cut down to size and sealed – I then bought legs for it, too. The ceiling was originally white gloss wood panels – not my style. I couldn’t afford to replace it, so I decided to try gold-leafing it. It was the longest and hardest task I’ve done yet, but totally worth it.’

‘The floor was a steal at £40 from Flooring Superstore, and I shopped around for the bath, taps, sink and toilet. My plumber accidentally broke the shower and then got a new one – it’s even better than before so no complaints there!’

Kids' bedroom

‘When I swapped bedrooms with the kids, and this room became theirs, I bought a second-hand bunk bed to really maximise the space. Because it’s an attic-style room, of sorts, it isn’t very big, so I had to be smart when sourcing furnishings. Originally, the room was just white, but that soon changed.

Benjamin wanted green and Madeleine wanted pink, so I tried to incorporate pops of both colours to keep them happy.’

What I learned

Give yourself a contingency fund as part of your budget – there will always be unexpected costs along the way.

Try not to cut corners. I can be a bit impatient and I could have slowed down some steps for a better finish.

I also learned how to impress my granddad! He is the DIY king and often helps me with tasks around the house.

Disco ball planter

Add some sparkle to your schemes, like Robyn, with this glittering make

TOP TIP

Be sure to have spare sharp blades to hand for this project as a blunt craft knife will make the polystyrene crumble rather than cutting clean. Run your blade along the waxy edges of a candle for a sharper cut

INSTRUCTIONS

1 Use your craft knife to cut the top off the Styrofoam craft ball. Your knife blade won’t be long enough to go all the way through the ball, so cut in as far as you can before cutting down from above and removing the top of the ball section by section. Hollow out a space in the centre of the ball for your plant in the same way; removing a section at a time, until you have space for your chosen plant pot. The inside of the ball will not be seen in the finished make, so it does not have to look perfect!

2 Drill three holes at equal distances around your planter, about 1cm down from the top lip. Then insert a pull ring brad into each hole and fold the brad arms out at the back to support the pull ring inside the planter.

3 Stand your ball in a small bowl so it is held upright as you work. Add your first row of mosaic mirrors, working from the top edge of the planter. The self-adhesive will hold them in place, but we recommend gluing them into position once you’re happy with the spacing, or they will fall off over time. Once the first row is complete, build up the second row below, working around the brad positions to hide as much of the polystyrene as you can. Work down the ball, building up rings around the ball at each layer.

4 Turn over your ball to work on the base. It will get harder to place the tiles evenly the closer you get to the base. Keep working in rows round the ball, adjusting the positioning to cover as much polystyrene as you can, and gluing in place once you are happy. The bottom of the ball will be a single mosaic tile. Then leave it all to dry.

Robyn has hung her sparkling planter in a dark corner to help brighten up the area

5 Fasten three chains into the loops of your brads and attach the other ends onto a silver keyring to serve as a hanging loop. Insert your plant pot into the disco ball planter. Just remember to remove the plant from the hanger before you water it and allow it to drain before popping it back in.

YOU WILL NEED 20cm Styrofoam craft ball craft knife or Stanley knife with spare blades 5mm self-adhesive mirror glass mosaic tiles drill hot melt glue and glue gun 3 silver brads (paper fasteners) with pull rings silver chains for hanging silver keyring

Make Hannah Bellis Photo Douglas Gibb

Cosy hottie jumper cover

Turn an unloved sweater into a cosy cover for a thrifty, stylish winter warmer

SCAN ME for more stylish upcycling ideas at yourhomestyle.uk

e’ve all got a jumper that we no longer wear lurking at the back of our wardrobes. Maybe it no longer fits, or has been nibbled by moths, or did it go in a too-hot wash and come out smaller than when it went in? Whatever the reason, we can help! Rather than throw it away, you can easily give an old jumper a second lease of life by transforming it into a stylish hot water bottle cover that’s perfect for snuggling up with on cold winter nights.

YOU WILL NEED

ł old jumper ł hot water bottle

paper

Sharpie pen

tape measure

ruler

scissors

pins

dressmaker’s scissors

iron-on Velcro

iron

metallic fabric scrap

needle

cotton thread

silver embroidery thread

embroidery needle

sewing machine

2 buttons

INSTRUCTIONS

1 First make your pattern. To do this, trace around your hot water bottle with a Sharpie pen onto a sheet of paper, then mark another line 2cm larger all the way around to make your pattern front piece. Cut this out.

2 Next, you need to make two back pieces. To start, cut two pattern pieces that are the same size as the front pattern piece. To make the top back piece, let’s call this pattern ‘A’, draw a horizontal line halfway down the first pattern piece, then draw a second horizontal line 4cm below this halfway point. Cut along this second line to create pattern piece A. To make the bottom back piece, let’s call this pattern‘B’, draw a horizontal line halfway down the second pattern piece, then draw a second horizontal line 4cm above this halfway point. Cut along this second line to create pattern piece B. You should now have three pattern pieces: the

whole front, the top back (A) and the bottom back (B).

3 Cut the front and back from your jumper and lay them flat on your work surface. Pin the front pattern to the back section of your jumper and cut out. Place the bottom of back piece A and the top of back piece B on the ribbed edge of the jumper front, pin in place and cut out. Using the existing jumper ribbing means that you won’t need to hem the edges.

4 Cut a length of iron-on Velcro that’s 10cm shorter than the width of back pieces A and B. Pin one side of the Velcro centrally to the right side of back piece B and pin the corresponding piece of Velcro centrally to the wrong side of piece A. Make sure that when the two back pieces overlap to match the front piece, the two strips of Velcro meet up. Once you’re happy with the positioning of the Velcro, iron it into position, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Then carefully remove the pins.

5 Cut a crescent moon shape from a scrap of metallic fabric (make a paper pattern to get the perfect shape if it helps) and slipstitch it onto the right side of the front piece. Then, using silver embroidery thread, sew a line of backstitches as close to the edge of the moon as possible to add extra sparkle and definition. Next, stitch some simple star shapes to the front piece using the silver embroidery thread. Sew stars in a variety of sizes to create interest.

6 Place the front piece of your hottie cover right side up on your work surface. Place back piece A on top with the wrong side facing up. Place back piece B on top with wrong side facing up. Make sure all the outside edges line up neatly and pin the pieces together. Sew a 2cm seam all the way around the edge. Trim away any excess fabric and gently turn the hottie cover right side out. Stitch two decorative buttons to the ribbing at the bottom of back piece A. Finally, place your hot water bottle inside the cover and then press the Velcro strips together to close it.

Feature, project and step shots Anna-Lisa De’Ath Main photo Sussie Bell

Search charity shops for 100% wool jumpers that have felted. They’re ideal for this project as they won’t fray

We take four Christmas classics from screen to interior scheme, so you can create your own Hollywood happy-ever-after at home this year

Dust off your ice skates and dig out your mittens, we’re taking a trip to Christmas film and TV wonderland, where fake snow falls from dawn to dusk, jingle bells ring and mulled wine flows on tap. Turn back the clock to Victorian London with TheMuppetChristmasCarol, cosy up in a picturesque cottage with TheHoliday, be like a kid in a candy store with Elf and feel some serious 1990s nostalgia with Friends

Katie Dutton

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL Christmas past

Step into the sooty streets of Victorian London where candlelight flickers and church bells toll. Luckily, we have some friendly Muppet guides with us to lead the way. Add festive cheer to a dark, dramatic colour palette with warming lanterns and a statement mirror Don’t forget quirky animal decorations too – Kermit and Miss Piggy would approve.

Scrooge

You,re supposed to be the leading lady of your own life

THE HOLIDAY Cosy cottage

Turn your home into a country- style bolthole full of cosy period charm this Christmas. Recreate the ambience of a crackling fire with fairy lights and candles, and add plenty of foliage with festive wreaths, garlands – and mistletoe, of course. Now, the only thing we’re missing is Jude Law…

New home hanging decoration, £5, Habitat

Paper baubles in Green, White & Grey, set of 6, £5; festive acorn decorations, set of 2, £4; hedgehog clip decorations, set of 3, £5; pheasant feather clips, set of 2, £4; clip-on mushroom decorations, set of 4, £3.50; festive light-up bauble, £3.50; paper snowflake decoration, £2; ceramic hanging decoration, £2.50; dried flower baubles, set of 3, £5; light-up house decoration, £4, all B&M

Greenery fairy lights, £14.95,

Bolster cushion, £17.50,

Emma Bridgewater night sky village fireworks mug, half pint, £22, Daisy Park

wood style candle, £7, B&M

Woodland animal baubles, set of 2, £2, B&M

With 25th December just around the corner, now is the time to pull up your elf bootstraps, and deck your halls with the North Pole’s finest display Think peppermint candy canes, fairy tale snow globes and everything bright and cheerful. When you’re done, treat yourself to a nice warming glass of maple syrup, elf-style.

Buddy the elf

It’s just nice to meet another human who shares my affinity for elf culture

Pot-grown Nordmann fir Christmas tree, £34.99; wirelit dream sign, £12.99; neon snowflake light, £29.99; turkey tree decoration, £10; luxe Champagne bottle shaped bauble, £8.50; espresso martini hanging decoration, £10; neon tree light, £29.99; 80 retro bulb multi string lights, £39.99; 240 multi basic string lights, £24.99; Gold star tree topper, 20cm, £4.99; mini shed shaped bauble, £6; glass glitter dog baubles, set of 2, £5.99; assorted festive Brussels sprouts shaped baubles, £11; Pink gin bottle shaped bauble, £6.50; assorted glass sushi ornaments, set of 6, £3.99; asparagus shaped bauble, £8.50, all Dobbies

at WeLoveCushions

HomeStyle readers can treat themselves, as well as loved ones, this holiday season with our exclusive reader offer with WeLoveCushions!

Whether you adore abstract art, you are head over heels with botanicals, or you prefer pop art colours – snuggle down and get cosy this winter with cushions from a brand that prides itself in making everything by hand, right in the heart of London.

The WeLoveCushions collection features over 3,000 designs taken from national archives, individual artists and design houses, including the William Morris Gallery, The National Gallery, The British Library and the TATE and

WeLoveCushions has an artistic design to suit every style of room.

If cushions aren’t your thing, there are plenty more products to choose from – check out the brand’s wide range of kitchenware, lampshades and outdoor accessories. There are aprons for the keen baker, deckchairs for garden lovers and even luxury handmade pet beds for the four-legged members of the family.

So, why not spoil yourself this year, and add a little something new to your décor? It’s also a great opportunity to get that person who has

everything a little something different, with a unique homeware item from WeLoveCushions.

Check out the full range of cushions and homewares at welovecushions.co.uk

Fabulous festive table settings

As we build up to the most important feast of the year, get style savvy, impress your guests and magic up a visual delight that everyone will remember this Christmas with these four festive schemes for a stylish tablescape

Scalloped Christmas paper chains, 48 pieces, £12.50; Rainbow Forest honeycomb decorations, set of 10, £23.50; Patterned Christmas tree plates, set of 8, £8.25; sausage dog medium crackers, set of 6, £28; Patterned tree napkins, set of 16, £6.75; Peppermint Candy surprise balls, set of 6, £21.95; Rainbow fringed tree party picks, set of 12, £10; mini Gold glitter crowns, set of 8, £15, all Meri Meri

SEW SIMPLE

Bring plain cloth napkins up to date by flexing your sewing skills and adding a border of colourful ric rac

Pastel paper party napkins in Green, from £5.50 for a set of 20, Postbox Party

playful pastels

Joy felt baubles garland, £5, Wilko

Paper Dreams 20cm modern tree in Bright Pink, £8, The Conscious

ANYDAY checkerboard

PVC tablecloth fabric in Dusty Green, £15 per m, John Lewis & Partners

UNDER £2

Silver disco ball bauble, £1.50, Poundland

Pink disco ball bauble £2.99, TK Maxx Ric rac ribbon in Yellow, Baby Pink, Green and Red, all £3.30 for 4m, Hobbycraft

When creating a table setting, add height and texture to the dining table by layering dinner and side plates, bowls, and napkins

Twisted dinner candles, £15 for a set of 5, Paperchase

Bobble cereal bowl in Green, £10, MM Linen

BIRTHDAY BONUS

Pull out decorations from this year’s birthday parties to add colour and playfulness to this scheme. Use brightly coloured placemats underneath dinner plates and scatter the table with confetti for a jolly, playful effect

Lilac flower wine glasses, £14 for a set of 4, George Home

Gardenia stripe placemats, £20 for a set of four, Dunelm

Simon Thie, Founder, The Conscious

SWEET TREATS

Everyone loves a delicious, handmade treat. These thoughtful edible gifts are an eco-friendly option, and they’ll save you pennies too

Salted rum and raisin fudge

PREPARATION TIME 1 hour, plus cooling COOKING TIME 5 minutes MAKES 40 pieces

INGREDIENTS

100g raisins 50ml dark rum 397g condensed milk 100g unsalted butter 500g light muscovado sugar a pinch of Maldon salt 1 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD

1 Line a deep-sided baking tin with baking paper. Soak the raisins in the rum for 1 hour minimum, or ideally overnight.

2 In a pan, place the condensed milk, butter and sugar and bring to the boil. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar dissolves. Continue to boil for 10 minutes until it reaches‘soft ball’stage (113-115°C) on a sugar thermometer.

3 When the mixture reaches this temperature, remove from the heat, and quickly add the rum and raisins, Maldon Salt and vanilla. Stir until it thickens, then tip immediately into the prepared tin and allow to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares.

COOK’S TIP Wrap the fudge in parchment or recyclable cellophane and arrange in gift boxes.

Mint chocolate bark

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes, plus 40 minutes setting

COOKING TIME 10 minutes MAKES about 20 pieces

INGREDIENTS

200g good-quality dark mint chocolate 4-5 mint flavoured candy canes 200g good-quality white chocolate sugary cake decorations, to decorate

METHOD

1 Grease a small baking tray and line with baking paper. Break the dark mint chocolate into chunks and put into a heat-proof bowl over a pot of simmering water, not touching the water.

2 Slowly melt the chocolate then pour it onto the prepared tray and spread it out with a spatula. Put into the fridge for 20 minutes to set.

3 Using a large knife, chop the candy canes into small pieces. Now melt the white chocolate over simmering water.

4 Take the tray out of the fridge and pour the white chocolate on top, working fast so as not to melt the dark chocolate. Sprinkle with the chopped candy canes and add sugar cake decorations. Return to the fridge for another 20 minutes until set then break into pieces and place in recyclable cellophane bags tied with ribbon.

COOK’S TIP Make the chocolate bark bespoke with, for example, mini football sugar decorations for footie fans or flowers for keen gardeners.

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes COOKING TIME 32 minutes MAKES about 20 pieces

INGREDIENTS

200g white sesame seeds 150g caster sugar 150g liquid glucose 75g unsalted butter

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 190°C/170°C Fan/Gas Mark 5. Line a baking tray with baking paper and have a second tray at the ready. Lay out two sheets of baking paper about 40cm long on a clean surface that can tolerate heat, alongside two other sheets at the ready.

2 Spread the sesame seeds out on the baking tray and toast for 12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until deeply golden.

3 Meanwhile, add the sugar, glucose and butter to a small saucepan over a medium heat. Stir to combine, then bring to the boil. Stir in the warm toasted sesame seeds.

4 Pour half the mixture onto one of the sheets of baking paper, and the rest onto the second sheet, then top with the extra sheets of baking paper. Roll with a rolling pin to about 2mm thick, then slide onto the baking trays. Remove the top pieces of paper and bake for 20 minutes. Set aside to cool and harden on the trays, then break into shards.

COOK’S TIP The sesame brittle will store in an airtight container in the freezer for several weeks.

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes, plus cooling COOKING TIME 17 minutes MAKES about 20 pieces

INGREDIENTS

250g raw nuts, such as hazelnuts, almonds, peanuts, pecans, walnuts or macadamia

250g caster sugar 50g (vegan) liquid glucose

50ml water

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas Mark 4. Spread the nuts on a baking tray and roast for 10 minutes. Remove the tray from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 110°C/90°C Fan/Gas Mark ¼.

2 Rub off any skins in a tea towel then chop the nuts roughly. Tip onto a baking tray lined with baking paper and keep warm in the oven.

3 Meanwhile, in a saucepan, bring the sugar, glucose and water to a simmer over a high heat. Cook, without stirring, to a light golden caramel, about 7 minutes. Add the warm nuts and stir with a wooden spoon to coat.

4 Tip the mixture back onto the tray, tilting the tray to spread it out. Cool completely until hardened, before smashing into pieces. Store the toffee in an airtight container in the freezer to stop it getting tacky. It will keep for up to 3 months.

COOK’S TIP As these keep for so long, cook in batches and use as a thoughtful birthday gift.

Feature Kirstie Duhig Recipes Rum and raisin fudge –Maldon Salt, maldonsalt.com; Mint chocolate bark –Ao.com

Sesame brittle V GF Nutty praline VG GF

Sesame brittle and Nutty praline recipes reproduced from COOK by Karen Martini (Hardie Grant, £55) Photography by Mark Chew

Vanilla and lemon ricciarelli

PREPARATION TIME 15 minutes

COOKING TIME 15 minutes

MAKES 24 biscuits

INGREDIENTS

2 medium egg whites 200g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting 250g ground almonds 1 vanilla pod, split lengthways 1 lemon, zested

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas Mark 4 and then line a baking sheet with non-stick baking paper.

2 Whisk the egg whites with an electric whisk in a clean, non-plastic bowl for 2-3 minutes until stiff peaks have formed.

3 Sieve the icing sugar into another bowl, then stir through the almonds.

4 Scrape the seeds from the vanilla pod with a sharp knife and add to the almond mix, along with the lemon zest. Fold in the egg whites using a metal spoon until you have a thick, sticky paste.

5 Dust a clean worktop with icing sugar. Scoop out tablespoons of the almond mix, roll into ovals, then flatten a little. Carefully roll in the icing sugar until completely coated, then transfer to the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture, spacing each one around 3cm apart.

6 Bake for 12-15 minutes until slightly golden and cracked, then leave on the tray to cool completely. They will keep for up to a week in an airtight container.

COOK’S TIP These gluten-free treats are a traditional festive Italian delicacy. Easy and quick to make, they are the perfect accompaniment to coffee.

Chocolate cherry truffles

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes, plus soaking and setting overnight COOKING TIME 2-3 minutes MAKES about 25 pieces

INGREDIENTS

60g dried black cherries 4 tbsp Bonne Maman Black Cherry Conserve 1 tbsp Cointreau or fresh orange juice

150g milk chocolate, roughly chopped 50g dark chocolate, roughly chopped 200g condensed milk (this is about half a 397g can, the remainder will freeze) 75g unsalted butter, diced

METHOD

1 Put the dried cherries in a bowl and stir in the black cherry conserve and liqueur or orange juice. Leave to soak for a couple of hours or overnight.

2 Lightly grease and line a 20cm square, shallow cake tin with baking paper. Put all the chocolate in a saucepan with the condensed milk and butter. Stir over a gentle heat until the chocolate has melted, and the mixture is smooth. Increase the heat to a simmer and cook gently for another 2-3 minutes, stirring all the time. Stir in half the soaked cherries.

3 Pour the hot mixture into the prepared tin and dot the remaining soaked cherries evenly over the top, pushing them a little way into the chocolate. Cover and pop in the freezer for 2 hours to set.

4 Cut the truffle into bite-sized pieces and keep covered in the fridge or freezer. To give as a gift, pop each piece of truffle into a petit four case and into air-tight jars and keep chilled.

No cook raspberry and pomegranate jam

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes, plus soaking overnight MAKES 1-2 small jars

INGREDIENTS

350g raspberries 100g pomegranate seeds 2 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp sugar 4 tbsp chia seeds

METHOD

1 Add the raspberries and pomegranate seeds to a food processor and blitz until there are barely any fruit chunks visible.

2 Add the lemon juice and sugar and process again, tasting as you go to check the flavour. If it needs more sugar or lemon, add accordingly.

3 Add the fruit mixture to a bowl, combine with the chia seeds and mix well. Leave in the fridge for a few hours, or overnight. The chia seeds will expand as they are left to mingle with the rest of the ingredients.

4 Spoon the jam into small, sterilised jars and store in the fridge before gifting.

biscuits V GF

THESE SOFT ALMOND COOKIES ARE THE IDEAL GIFT FOR FOODIE FRIENDS

Chocolate and orange macarons

PREPARATION TIME 15 minutes

COOKING TIME 15 minutes MAKES 24 biscuits

INGREDIENTS

125g ground almonds 250g icing sugar

3 egg whites 8g sachet dried egg white powder 25g caster sugar 1 tsp dark cocoa powder 1 small orange, zest finely grated orange gel food colouring

For the filling

4 tbsp Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread 2 tbsp Bonne Maman Bitter Orange Marmalade

1 Preheat the oven to 190°C/170°C Fan/Gas Mark

5. Line 2-3 baking sheets with non-stick baking parchment and set aside.

2 Place the ground almonds and icing sugar together in the bowl of a food processor or blender and whizz together for about 5 seconds.

3 Put the egg whites and dried egg white powder into a large, clean (non-plastic) bowl and whisk together until they form stiff peaks. Gradually whisk in the caster sugar until the mixture is very thick and shiny.

4 With a large metal spoon, quickly fold the almond and icing sugar into the meringue until evenly blended.

5 Divide the mixture into two. Fold the cocoa powder into one half. Fold the orange zest and a drop of the gel food colouring into the other half.

6 Using one flavour at a time, spoon the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a 1cm nozzle. Pipe rounds about 3.5cm in diameter onto the lined baking sheets, leaving the same amount of space between each one. You should get at least 15 rounds with each flavour. Set them aside for 15 minutes to allow the macarons to form a crust on top.

7 Bake in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes or until the base has set. Then, using a palette knife, gently ease the macarons off the paper and flip them over to bake the underside. Bake for a further 5 minutes, before leaving them to cool on a wire rack.

8 Spread the chocolate macarons with the Hazelnut Chocolate Spread. Spread the orange macarons with the marmalade and sandwich the two together.

COOK’S TIP Make the macaron shells in advance and freeze them before filling. Once filled, store in the fridge and eat within three days.

Recipes Vanilla and lemon ricciarelli biscuits –Tesco Real Food, realfood.tesco.com; Chocolate cherry truffles, Chocolate and orange macarons –Bonne Maman, bonnemaman.co.uk/recipes; No cook raspberry and pomegranate jam –Poppin’Poms, poppinpoms.com

Piping the macarons into rounds takes a little practice so you might want to make a test batch first

What better way to upgrade your kitchen than by swapping to a sleek hot tap and enjoying instant boiling water in seconds? Kitchen appliance, sink and tap expert, Prima, is offering one lucky winner a premium 3-in-1 Prima+ Hot Tap finished in beautiful matt black, worth £737*!

Delivering filtered boiled water, as well as normal hot and cold water, this clever Prima+ 3-in-1 tap is not only energy efficient (with an ‘A’ rating), but its stylish contemporary design will also complement any kitchen space.

Offering hot water temperatures of 98°C, 96°C and 75°C, the highperformance Prima+ tap comes with a 2.4-litre tank and water filter that sit discreetly beneath the sink. It’s also child safe with an anti-scald safety mechanism, child lock and protection sensor, for a worry-free experience.

Say goodbye to your old kettle, free-up your worktop and enjoy instant steaming hot water – on tap!

See the whole Prima appliances, sinks and tap collection at prima-appliances.uk

to spend at Arighi Bianchi

Luxury homeware store, arighibianchi. co.uk, is offering two lucky HomeStyle readers a £250 voucher to spend online or in store!

Arighi Bianchi is a treasure trove of everything you could possibly need for your home. From sofas, beds, dining furniture and statement pieces to cushions, mirrors, kitchen accessories, ornaments – and everything in between – you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to interior updates. And with the Boxing Day sale kicking off on 26th December 2022 – there will be up to 30 per cent off furniture and home accessories, making your money go even further!

So, whether your style is luxe, Scandi, traditional, maximalist, sleek and modern or a combination of all of them, you will find the perfect pieces for your home.

Head to the website to check out the full range, or if you’re based in the North West, why not pop into its iconic Macclesfield store to shop in person? arighibianchi.co.uk

TERMS AND CONDITIONS *Delivery included, installation not included. Both prize draws close on 24th January 2023 at 11.59pm and you must be 18 or over to enter. The prize draws are open to residents of the UK and Channel Islands only. The winners will be chosen at random. Find full terms and conditions under each prize draw page at yourhomestyle.uk/win

Add some softness to the bathroom by making a shower curtain from gorgeous, on-trend fabric. Use your existing curtain as a template, then add a row of pretty scallops to create this gentle and playful effect. Just remember to add a liner – or keep your old curtain up – to make sure your new design doesn’t get wet!

Heat things up in the kitchen this winter with warming red and blush tones; an orange-based hue, like plaster, also creates a sophisticated look. ‘It’s a perfect shade of pink’ says Ben Burbidge, MD at Kitchen Makers, ‘it transports me back to past holidays in the Mediterranean.’

Feature Hannah Tribe

PINK AND GOLD REIGN IN our stylish kitchen

‘I was a bit cautious about doing the whole kitchen in pink, but the two-tone look feels contemporary and light grey cabinets with a pop of pink on the island appealed to both of us. Adding the mermaid tiles was the finishing touch that makes our kitchen feel unique'

About me

I’m Ashley Newcombe. I live with my husband, Colin, our son Artie, who is 18 months, and our dog, Lola. We both work in medical communications, and we live in a four-bed terrace in Liverpool. I record my renovation journey on Instagram @no10_in_pink.

‘We had the table and bench seating made to fit this space, and the grey legs are a nod to the kitchen units, which adds a cohesive feel to the large room’

Feature and styling

Lisa Moses

Photos Caroline Mardon

Starting from scratch meant Ashley Newcombe could choose everything she needed to create her dream space

Now we have this big space, there,s room for a tree, which adds to the festive feel

BEFORE

My problem kitchen

The old kitchen had ugly dark brown units and cracked floor tiles. Also, I never understood why the design only allowed for a tiny worktop and two gas rings for cooking considering the space was so big, so I knew it needed a complete rethink.

How I made it work

Replacing one set of patio doors with a window allowed us to increase the kitchen and worktop area and make room for a sink underneath. Installing an island transformed the space from

functional to sociable – perfect for entertaining –and painting the island pink to complement the light grey units allowed the gold hardware and accessories to shine.

My favourite part

It’s a hard choice between the mermaid tiles and the island. The tiles add an unusual touch to the finishing details in the room and they're fun, but I do like to be able to say I painted the island myself when people admire it.

When we bought this house, it needed a complete renovation, which made my heart sink a little bit as we’d just finished a massive project in our old place. But it meant we could pick our own fixtures and fittings rather than living with other people’s taste, which was a bonus.

The original kitchen only filled a quarter of the space and there was barely any work surface and just two hob rings, so it was ready for a redesign. We scribbled down a few ideas on paper and took them to Howdens who helped us plan the space. We went for an L-shaped design, which allowed the sink to look out to the garden and left plenty of space for an island, top of my wish list, and we replaced the ugly patio doors with stylish floor-to-ceiling bi-folds to let the light flood in. I wanted to add some gentle colour to the room so I chose Howdens' paintable range and went for its light grey cabinets; then I painted the white island in Old Rose by Neptune. I wanted to add more pink to balance the look and stumbled across the fun mermaid tiles, which really complemented the gold accessories I’d started sourcing.

The builder wasted no time ripping everything out and as Artie had started crawling, we went to live with my parents for a few weeks to get out of the madness of living in a building site. Taking on a massive project after just going back to work from maternity leave wasn’t easy but it was worth it. We don’t get to go out so much at the moment because we have a young child, but we’re happy to stay in now that we have this gorgeous new space to enjoy.

‘We replaced the smashed floor tiles with light herringbone as a hard-wearing, durable option, perfect for a busy family kitchen as we like to entertain a lot in here and Artie is starting to run about’

‘Colin suggested having a quartz worktop and initially I thought it was too big an expense, but now that it’s fitted it looks amazing and worth the investment for the quality’

My shopping list

Kitchen including Chelford units in Dove Grey, White island, cooker, hob, sink and extractor, £7,010, Howdens. White quartz worktop, £2,700, Prestige. For similar flooring, try the Home Choice herringbone European Select oak flooring, £54.99 per sq m, UK Flooring Direct. Brushed Gold Hanström 3-in-1 Swan instant boiling water tap, £399, Verana. Scallop pendant in clear glass, £61, Pooky. Gold Siena bar stool, £89 each; for a similar dining table and bench, try the Clifford large dining bench set, £495; round sheepskin seat pad in Ivory, £12, all Dunelm. Asheville Pink Fish Scale wall tiles, £84.92 per sq m, Victorian Plumbing. Ambiano Pink classic stand mixer, £49.99, Aldi. Marble Acacia board, £12.99; Most Wonderful Time LED plaque, £6.99; Grey Mason Cash mixing bowl, £9.99, all The Range.

Style advice

Three simple tricks to try in your own home

01 Glow up your space

‘I love gold in all its forms; whether it’s the jewellery I wear or the accessories around the house, and I knew it would work well as an accent colour in our contemporary kitchen. We started with the cup handles and knobs on the kitchen cabinets and then I spent a lot of late nights browsing online to find the same goldcoloured light fittings, bar stools and a tap that would work to keep the look cohesive. I love the touch of luxe that the metallics add to the functional space.'

02 Have fun with tiles

‘I felt the room needed more pink to tie in with the island and I initially considered painting a wall, but we needed a splashback so I started browsing pink tiles. When I spotted this fish scale design, I knew it was the playful element needed to lift the whole space. Though in hindsight I wish we’d done the whole splashback so we will probably revisit that at some point.’

03 Commission bespoke art

‘We wanted a statement piece of art on this wall to tie in with the rest of the room. We commissioned Jess, @artwithfeelinguk, an artist who creates beautiful but affordable textured art, to make a bespoke work for us. We gave her our colour palette, which she used to create the piece, including the exact shade of pink on the island and the grey of the cabinets, and she added some gold to reflect the accessories in the kitchen. I've continued the colour scheme onto the table setting. It’s been fun choosing more contemporary shades to complement the pink in the kitchen.'

Faux

think pink

Give a blush scheme some grown-up glam, like Ashley’s kitchen, with metallic accents and subtle sparkle

Charger plate, £1.29 each, The Range

Dish rack, £4.66, Søstrene Grene

Tower Scandi toaster, £34, Freemans

Salter 16-piece cutlery set, £24.99, Wayfair

Mistletoe bauble, £1.50, Poundland

Pink Siena wine glasses, £32 for a set of 4, Next

Harmony dinner candles, £2.50 for a set of 4, B&M

Practical pieces can be pretty, too. This gold- coloured rack will make your dishes sparkle!

I WANTED THE ROOM TO LOOK dark and daring

‘I scouted long and hard to find a dining table and this set from Furniture123 fits perfectly in the room. Having benches, rather than chairs, maximises seating space'

About me

I’m Bili and I’m a social media manager. I live with my partner, Matt, in a three-bed Victorian semidetached house in Reading. We’ve been here almost two years and we’re slowly decorating it room by room. You can see more of my home on Instagram @boldoverbeige.

Feature and styling Emma Fishman

Photos David Giles

By going for a bold colour scheme with glam gold accents and statement tropical prints, Bili has banished the beige for good

BEFORE

My problem living room

Although the room had lots of lovely traditional features, it was very bland and in desperate need of some va va voom to reflect our taste and style. We couldn’t wait to get started and put our own stamp on the space.

How I made it work

Matt and I love the drama of tropical prints, so we went for some jungle-theme wallpaper. We picked out navy and teal colours from the design as a

base for the scheme to create a really cosy feel and added animal prints and soft textures, too. New flooring has added warmth, while gold details have given the space a glam edge, perfect for hosting Christmas drinks.

My favourite part

I love the teal and navy colour combination –it’s completely changed the mood in the room. It feels so much cosier now the beige has gone.

Bili has painted the woodwork, including the picture rails, in Cape Verde by Valspar, giving the room's traditional features a contemporary twist

As my Instagram name – @boldoverbeige – suggests, I knew the neutral colours in the living room just had to go. I've always been drawn to bold colours and tropical prints and so, naturally, I wanted my living room to reflect my tastes.

I had my eye on the wallpaper from Divine Savages for a while and it was the base for the whole colour scheme, pulling out the blues and teals for the walls and furnishings, too. I had my heart set on the velvet Chesterfield sofa I spotted in John Lewis and I knew it would team up perfectly with the wallpaper. The original floorboards weren’t in a good enough condition, so we chose some engineered oak flooring in a herringbone pattern to bring warmth to the space. We’ve spent every spare moment decorating, which hasn’t always been plain sailing. Because the house is over 100 years old, everything is a bit wonky so even the simplest of tasks always seem to take a lot longer than expected. I’ve learnt that nothing can be rushed and it’s worth taking a bit of time getting it right. Doing all the DIY ourselves has given us such a huge sense of achievement, plus it helps to save on the pennies. Now I can’t wait to celebrate Christmas here – I absolutely love all the gold and glitter!

My shopping list

Walls painted in Purple Funk matt emulsion, £26 per 2.5L; woodwork painted in Cape Verde eggshell, £18 per 1L, both Valspar. Nocturnal Faunacation wallpaper, £150 per roll, Divine Savages. Hutton Brandy engineered oak flooring, £46.96 per sq m, Luxury Flooring. Tiger handmade rug, £99, Birch & Yarn. Herringbone dining table, £449.97; herringbone bench, £159.97, both Furniture123. For a similar sofa, try the Hanney three-seater velvet sofa in Teal, £469.99, daals. For a similar coffee table, try the Panatella coffee table, £154.99, My-Furniture. Tiger head vase, £15, Dunelm. Homestead Black and Gold 16-piece cutlery set, £12; Navy & Champagne table garland, £30; gold bristle tree, £6; Gold paper acorn decorations, £2; White ceramic trees, £2.50 each; Blue star wrapping paper, £1.50; Midnight luxury baubles, £6 for a pack of 6; for a similar drinks trolley, try the Karina Bailey drinks trolley, £25, all B&M. Star fairy lights, £16.99; Snowflake fairy lights, £9.99, both Lights4fun. Wrapping paper, ribbon, paper decorative stars, from a selection, Hobbycraft. Gold glitter bunting, £11.25; marble paper fans, set of 3, £14; glass candlesticks, £14 each; ombré candles, set of 3, £14; luxury marble crackers, set of 6, £20; for a similar ice bucket, try the Gold pineapple ice bucket, £40, all Talking Tables. Framed Madagascan Sunset moth artwork, £39.99, Minibeast. Fix Up Look Sharp print, from £13; Bon Appetit print, from £13, both Ink & Drop. Original Pirate print, £20, Hotfoils. Dalmatian spot faux fur throw, £20, George Home. Sanela Dark Blue velvet curtains, £60, IKEA.

Instead of letting a strip of leftover wallpaper go to waste, Bili has used it as a stylish table runner

'Christmas styling is so much fun,' says Bili. ‘I'm a magpie, so I love cracking out the gold and glitter, while lots of plants and spray-painted leaves add a tropical twist'

Style advice

Three

simple tricks to try in your own home

01 Creative compromises

If you’ve got your eye on a pricey wallpaper but can’t afford a top-to-toe feature wall, try panels, like Bili. ‘When I saw the Nocturnal Faunacation wallpaper from Divine Savages I fell in love with the drama of it!’she says. ‘We thought we’d get away with one roll of paper but while we were hanging it, we realised we were short by a very small piece, so we decided on wallpapered panels instead. We get a lot of compliments on the panelling, which was a happy accident, but the best thing is we saved £150 on a second roll!’

02 Have a party piece

Bili loves to entertain her friends and family, so a drinks trolley was a must-have. ‘I’d been looking for a gold drinks trolley for a while and finally found this Art Deco style one in the sale at Homebase. My friends love it as much as me.’To make it a focal point in the room, Bili has piled on the bling with tropical foliage, fairy lights and glitter bunting to create a statement piece, perfect for festive celebrations.

03 On theme

For a cohesive look, decorate your Christmas tree to tie in with the rest of your room’s décor. To complement her glam style, Bili has gone for a navy and gold colour palette with accessories from B&M’s Midnight Glamour collection. ‘I love how the colour scheme immediately makes an impact,’ says Bili, ‘so I wanted the Christmas decorations to be in keeping with that look. Matt has to reign me in sometimes, otherwise the whole house would be green and blue!’

PAINTING ALL FOUR WALLS PINK has changed everything!

Once she settled on the right colour, it all fell into place for Kyla Magrath’s Moroccan-inspired bedroom

‘I was looking for something for this wall and I was thrilled to spot this Moroccan-style mirror in Dunelm – it’s really substantial and unusual. For me, it’s the best bargain in the whole space as it’s full length and it throws light around the room’

About me

I’m Kyla Magrath, an interior stylist and content creator @kylamagrathinteriors. I live with my children, Ned, 14, and Maggie, 11, in a three-bed Victorian terrace in Bristol. I’ve been here since 2005 and I have re-decorated all the rooms many times.

Feature Stephanie Smith

Photos Katie Jane Watson Styling

Kyla Magrath

TOTAL

‘My cosy bedroom is now full of gorgeous Moroccan colours as I’ve painted the walls, the woodwork and all my vintage furniture. Paint is a reasonably inexpensive way of getting a completely new look’

My problem bedroom

It wasn’t like I hated it or anything, but I was just keen for a change. Three of the walls were plain white, which felt a bit cold, and the one behind my bed was a dark toffee colour. Suddenly, it wasn’t enough. I wanted to be enveloped in lovely warm colour, rather than just having it in one spot.

How I made it work

I call my style boho rustic, and I’m really influenced by Moroccan colours and textures, so that was the key to the whole design. I’d already found some

fantastic rust linen curtains, and the big decision was the wall colour. I’d set my heart on a peachy pink and I found the perfect limewash paint, with a contrasting pink for the woodwork. A refresh of bedding, lighting and accessories in my new palette completed the look.

My favourite part

The wall colour. It’s very textural, soft and it gives an aged feel to the room. It’s just made my bedroom feel so warm and cosy.

Before I became an interior stylist, my background was as a painter and decorator, so I’ve always had an eye for, and a real interest in, colour and paint. My bedroom has had several changes in the 17 years I’ve been here, everything from plain white walls with wooden accessories to flamboyant floral wallpaper. But this time, I knew exactly what I wanted: a Moroccan palette of rusts, pinks and browns, with plenty of texture to make it feel warm and cosy.

I’d fallen in love with Bauwerk Colour’s natural limewash paints, and a peachy pink was the aim for all four walls, as it couldn’t be too dark. I narrowed it down to four choices and put colour cards up on the wall for about a month. Finally, I chose Lake Eyre, which I absolutely love.

I’d bought myself a new rattan bed a year ago, and I was happy with my vintage wardrobes and chest of drawers that I’d upcycled and painted. Bedding was an essential element of the new scheme and makes such a difference to a room, so I treated myself to a new set. I love the feel of linen and you can buy it at reasonable prices now. I always go for a patterned bottom sheet and pillowcases and then layer it with blocks of colour and cushions. It’s so hard to drag myself out of bed in the mornings now!

My bedroom really is my sanctuary, and the injection of colour has made it feel even more relaxing. I like to go up there for some ‘me time’ in the evenings, light the candles and read or watch TV on my laptop. Now, it just feels super cosy.

‘I love to use as many natural materials as possible so there’s plenty of wood everywhere, particularly in the furniture. I picked up the wooden bedside table for £20 ages ago, which I then painted, and I sourced a rattan bedside light to match the bed, as well as a jute runner for the floor’

My shopping list

Buisseau oak/cane bed, £454.35; Elina washed linen sheet in Rose Veneto, £47.50; for a similar pendant, try the Diamond woven ceiling shade, £44; for similar curtains, try the Romane linen curtains, £55, all La Redoute. Adelie linen sheet, £120; Adelie pillowcases, £63 for two, Sage and Clare. Ruffle pillowcase in Ochre and Petal, both £35 for two, Toetoe Living. For a similar cushion, try the velvet embroidered Shell cushion, £45, À la. For a similar bedspread, try the Ditsy Crinkle Yellow velvet bedspread, £165, Oliver Bonas. Walls painted in Lake Eyre lime paint, £30 per 1L, Bauwerk Colour. Woodwork painted in Lido Pink, Edinburgh Toffee and Drunk Tahini chalky matt furniture paint, all £33 per 1L, The Pickleson Paint Co. Floor painted in All White modern eggshell, £81 per 2.5L, Farrow & Ball. Lohals jute runner, £40, IKEA. Drongo fabric lightshade in Caramel, £120, Abigail Ahern. Moroccan leaner mirror, £150; for a similar bolster cushion, try the embroidered Bird cushion, £16, both Dunelm. For a similar art print, try Henri Matisse Une Rose poster, from £10, Postery.com. Icon Zucca pouffe bean bag, £64.99, BeanBagBazaar.

ME

SCAN

for more great real homes at yourhomestyle.uk

‘There are two large original sash windows in the room, and I had this vision of wafty curtains that were still sturdy. These rust linen ones were the first things I bought; as they were a good price, I bought two sets and placed them on top of each other’

Style advice

Three simple tricks to try in your own home

01 Create an unusual shelf

‘Using a pile of old books in your colour scheme to make the base for a low shelf is something I often do. You can buy bundles of vintage books in flea markets for around £20, and sometimes if they’re on it, they’ve already sorted them into the colours for you. Otherwise, look in charity shops for single books for a few pence and build up your own collections. Find a tray that will fit easily on top and then vary your tealights and candles for a lovely soft glow. Try placing it in front of a mirror for maximum impact.’

02 Layer bedding and cushions

‘I have a rule with bedding and cushions. I stick to five basic colours – plum, brown, rust, caramel and pink –and variations within them, whether it’s plain or floral fabric. That way you can be sure that everything will go with everything else and you won’t be making any expensive mistakes, and pieces can just be rotated. Then it’s easy to layer things up, putting plain linen with patterns and using more tactile fabrics, like velvet and silk, with the cushions and varying the sizes. I tend to put more of the darker shades on the bed in the winter and lighter ones in the summer.’

03 Add a fake fireplace

‘Most people are shocked to find out that the fireplace isn’t original. When I moved in, the fireplace had been taken out; it was just a bare wall. At one stage I put up some brick wallpaper there, but it needed a focal point. I bought a proper cast-iron fire surround for £80 on eBay and fixed it to the wall. Then I painted the inside black to give the impression of a hole. Once I’d chosen my pink for the woodwork, I decided to paint the fire surround in the same colour to blend in, rather than have it stand out.’

GET THE LOOK

boho dreaming

Take inspiration from Moroccan interiors, like Kyla, and create a laidback bedroom full of relaxed colours, tactile textures and soft lighting

BEST FESTIVE COCKTAILS

If you’re like us, you may only treat yourself to your favourite tipple on special occasions or nights out, but how about pouring a delicious pre-made cocktail from the comfort of your own home? The YourHomeStyle team has taste-tested bottled cocktails and cocktails in a can to seek out the best products on the market right now. We poured a total of 18 drinks and spent several evenings putting them to the test to find the very best flavour from each brand (yes, it’s a hard life). You can check out which brands and flavours made the cut by searching ‘pre-mixed cocktails’at yourhomestyle.uk

FOR SOMETHING FUN

Check out our TikTok account for honest, tried-and-tested video reviews, unboxing of the latest lust-worthy homewares and round-ups of the top new trend ideas. Find us on TikTok @yourhomestyle.uk

GET ONLINE!

Bookmark our homepage for everything you need to know about the hottest new looks, DIY hacks and best buys

#MYHSHOME

For daily décor inspiration and an in-depth look at reader makeovers, follow us @homestylemaguk

A WEEKLY DOSE OF HOMESTYLE INSPO

Take a peek inside real reader homes and keep up to date with the latest interior trends, best bargain buys, reviews and giveaways with our newsletters, delivered to your inbox every Monday and Friday. Sign up at yourhomestyle.uk/our-newsletters

If you’re an outdoorsy household, chances are you’re used to a pile of soggy shoes by the door. This ingenious airer slots into shoes (as well as items of clothing) and can dry them in just over an hour.

yourhomestyle.uk

Whether it’s kids distracting us, an impromptu Teams call or just a chilly day, getting through a full hot bevvy is a rare pleasure! Luckily, the Contigo Streeterville is here to help. This clever insulated mug will keep your drink hot for up to five hours, so you don’ t have to worry about interruptions spoiling your cosy cuppa. The spill-proof lid also makes it easily transportable.

Getting steamy This efficient cover from Vileda will shave minutes off your weekly ironing. A foil layer helps to reduce ironing time by reflecting heat and steam back into the laundry. This technology quickly removes creases and prevents water droplets too. It fits boards sized 110-130 x 30-40cm.

FOODIE CORNER

We celebrate all the products, books, ideas and people that are shaking up the culinary world this month

Embrace the storm

resist a tipple that not only tastes good but acts good too. Hawksbill Caribbean Spiced Rum is a delicious blend of sweet vanilla, toasted nutmeg and cinnamon, making it the perfect base for a dark ‘n’ stormy cocktail. The real sweet note comes, however, when you discover that for every bottle sold Hawksbill donates 10 per cent of the profits to help its namesake through the Barbados Sea Turtle Project. £23 (70cl); Amazon, Ocado and hawksbillrum.co.uk

ROLL UP, ROLL UP…

Christmas is all about culinary indulgence but that doesn’t have to mean unhealthy. You can enjoy nutritious food and treat yourself, such as with Rollagranola’s nutty new flavour Almond & Pecan Crunch. Rollagranola says that its granolas are handmade in small batches to guarantee top nutty flavour. All the Rollagranola products are vegan, and gluten-free. Other flavours are Organic & Nutty, Absolutely Chocolate and Healthy Hazelnut. £4.99; Ocado, Planet Organic and Amazon

Nobbly, bobbly and wobbly in appearance the strangely shaped celeriac is not the most attractive looking vegetable, but it has a delicious, earthy flavour that can be used in a myriad dishes. Celeriac is in season from September to April so now is prime time to enjoy this rooty delight. Taste-wise the celeriac is like celery’s stronger, nuttier brother and its distinctive flavour is perfectly partnered with dairy. The French are keen celeriac fans and they love it in the mayonnaise-based, coleslaw-like dish, remoulade. We recommend it in a cheesy mash, as Parmesan coated chips or in a creamy soup. So don’t judge the celeriac by its gnarly appearance, this unique veg makes cosy, late-autumn dishes that are choc full of flavour.

For ideas head to bbcgoodfood.com/ recipes/collection/celeriac-recipes

The clanking of bottles in the recycling bin post-Christmas week is a familiar sound to us all so it’s reassuring to see that some drinks brands are starting to take their environmental impact more seriously. Cantium Gin has housed its delicious gin in a super-stylish bottle that can then be used as a flask long after Xmas and it makes a great gift too. Unwanted flasks can be returned to be cleaned and donated to charity partner, Warming Up The Homeless, where they will be used to keep soups and other food warm for those without homes.

Cantium £39.95 (400ml); cantiumgin.com

Feature Katie Nicholls

LET’S TALK ABOUT… CELERIAC

K A TIE NIC

LLS, SUPER FO

If you’re a fan of the much-loved Irish cream liqueur Baileys and you like to indulge in a choccy nibble then, frankly, your dreams have come true this Christmas as Baileys Chocolate Collection combines both of these delights in one neat little package. Milk, white and dark chocolate truffles filled with rich, creamy Baileys… what’s not to like?

The Cocktail Edit

If you are a budding mixologist, this book will change the way you think about cocktails. While we all like to browse a cocktail menu and try out flavours, it’s also a bit of a minefield and experimenting seems to be part of the experience. With TheCocktail Edit, author Alice Lascelles says she wants to demystify cocktails with recipes that are based on just 12 classics with tips and twists on how to make it your own. Accompanied by tantalising photography and recipes that won’t cost you a month’s wages, TheCocktailEditis your perfect festive friend.

TheCocktailEditbyAliceLascelles(Quadrille, £16.99)PhotographybyLauraEdwards

There’s a saying that ‘life is too short to stuff a mushroom’. Frankly, we’re inclined to agree and sometimes we’re just too busy to whip up what’s needed to be the host with the most for all those Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties. All is not lost, however, as we’ve discovered that you can order a celebration recipe box of canapés from The Cookaway, the food delivery service set up by MasterCheffinalist Jack Lucas. Select from meat, veggie or vegan options. Prices start from £26. Head to thecookaway.com for more.

TOO GOOD TO GO

Every month we turn the spotlight on one of our favourite foodies

If the thought of needless food waste raises your hackles and the idea of supermarkets dumping perfectly good produce makes you fume, we’d like to turn your attention to the anti-waste food campaign, app and blog, Too Good To Go. TGTG was conceived by Danish businesswoman Mette Lykke (pictured) who joined forces with several other entrepreneurs in 2016 – all horrified by the scale of food waste – to design an app to connect consumers with businesses that have surplus food. ‘Users get delicious meals at a great price, businesses reach new customers and recover sunk costs, and the planet has less wasted food to deal with – it’s a win-win-win,’ say the folk at Too Good To Go. The campaign has also produced a freeto-download recipe book with ideas for all four seasons. For more, visit toogoodtogo.co.uk

Spicyturkey stirfry

BEST OF BOTH Our fave TGTG winter recipes TURN THE PAGE FOR DELICIOUS FESTIVE IDEAS AND RECIPES

croquetas

THRIFTY CHRISTMAS

Make the most of your delicious leftovers with these inspiring recipes using tasty odds and ends

Boxing Day pickle pie

PREPARATION TIME 20 minutes

COOKING TIME 1 hour SERVES 6-8

INGREDIENTS

● 2 x sheets of pre-rolled shortcrust pastry

● 1 x 320g jar Cottage Delight Perfect Party Pickle ● 8 slices of leftover Christmas ham

● 300g leftover cooked Christmas Turkey

● 300g leftover pork stuffing (or 1 packet mix, made according to pack instructions) ● 250g mature cheddar, grated ● 1 egg, whisked

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/ Gas Mark 6.

2 Grease and flour a deep, round 18cm, loose bottomed or spring form pie tin.

3 Line the tin with one sheet of shortcrust pastry and spread ½ jar Perfect Party Pickle across the base.

4 Fill with layers of ham, Perfect Party Pickle, turkey, stuffing and cheese, until the tin is full. Pack in the layers, pressing them into the pie as you go.

5 Cut a lid, using the pie tin as a guide, place this on the top of the pie and crimp around the edges.

6 Cut festive decorations out of the pastry off-cuts and arrange these on top of your pie.

7 Glaze the top generously with egg wash and cut a hole in the top.

8 Bake in the oven for 1 hour (add tin foil if catching after 40 minutes) until golden brown.

9 Allow to cool inside the tin and serve hot or cold for Boxing Day lunch.

Warm salmon & beetroot salad

PREPARATION TIME 15 minutes

COOKING TIME 5 minutes SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

● 2 tsp red wine vinegar ● 1 tsp clear honey

● 1 small echalion shallot, thinly sliced into rings

● 250g pack ready-cooked puy lentils ● 200g ready-cooked beetroot, sliced into rounds

● 1 tsp olive oil ● 45g wild rocket ● 4 portions leftover cooked salmon or 2 Waitrose Scottish poached salmon fillets, skin removed and flaked

● 2 tsp hot horseradish sauce ● 2 tbsp soured cream ● 1 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped

METHOD

1 Mix the vinegar and honey with a pinch of salt. Stir in the shallot and set aside for 10 minutes.

2 Meanwhile, heat the lentils according to pack instructions, then toss with the beetroot and oil in a serving bowl and season. Add the rocket leaves and flaked salmon.

3 Using a fork, lift the shallot from the pickling liquor and scatter over the salmon. Stir the horseradish, soured cream and dill into the pickling liquor. Season and serve at once, with the soured cream mixture on the side for spooning over.

WHIP UP A BUDGET FAMILY FAVOURITE

Golden Turkey, Parma ham & red pepper pizza

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes

COOKING TIME 20 minutes SERVES 3-4

INGREDIENTS

● vegetable oil, for greasing ● 320g pack of ready rolled puff pastry ● 3 tbsp green pesto ● 4 slices

Parma ham, roughly torn ● 200g leftover Golden Turkey leg and breast meat, pulled into strips

● 8 sundried tomatoes, cut into halves ● 1 roasted red pepper, skinned, deseeded and cut into strips ● 125g ball buffalo mozzarella, sliced

● 10 black olives, pitted ● 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated ● sea salt and black pepper

● extra virgin olive oil ● fresh basil leaves, torn

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas Mark 6. Grease a baking sheet with oil.

2 Put the puff pastry sheet onto the greased baking sheet. Spread the pesto onto the base leaving a border around the edge of the pastry. Scatter the Parma ham, turkey, sundried tomatoes and red pepper onto the pastry base, followed by the mozzarella and the olives.

3 Sprinkle with the Parmesan, season with sea salt and black pepper and drizzle with a little olive oil.

4 Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, or until golden and the pastry is cooked.

5 Remove from the oven and scatter over the fresh basil leaves.

COOK’S TIP Use leftover vegan or vegetarian stuffing instead of turkey for the non-meat eaters in the house. Or for a superquick solution use toasted pitta bread as a base instead of puff pastry and skip step 4.

Feature Kirstie Duhig Recipes Warm Boxing Day pie –cottagedelight.co.uk; Beetroot and goat’s cheese salad –Waitrose, thousands of recipes can be found at waitrose.com/recipes; Golden Turkey, Parma ham and red pepper pizza –goldenturkeys.co.uk

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes

COOKING TIME 20 minutes

SERVES 4-6

INGREDIENTS

● 2 tbsp olive oil ● 50g butter ● 4 portobello mushrooms, thickly sliced ● 20g dried porcini, soaked ● 3 garlic cloves, crushed ● 1 sprig fresh rosemary, leaves chopped ● sea salt flakes ● freshly ground black pepper ● 300g pappardelle or any pasta shape you like ● 100ml white wine ● 300ml double cream ● 2 tsp Dijon mustard ● 50g grated Parmesan, plus extra to serve ● 350g cooked turkey meat, cut into chunks ● 75g cooked crispy bacon, cut into pieces ● chopped parsley, to serve

METHOD

1 Heat the olive oil and butter in a saucepan over a high heat and add the mushrooms, garlic and rosemary. Cook for 4 minutes, add a little of the porcini soaking water with some salt and pepper and reduce slightly.

2 Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pan of boiling salted water until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

3 Add the wine, cream, mustard and Parmesan to the mushrooms and reduce further until thickened slightly. Stir in the turkey meat and bacon and then warm the mixture through.

4 Place the pasta into bowls, top with some sauce and scatter with some freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan. Serve immediately.

COOK’S TIP When making pasta always salt the water and measure out your portions (75g of dried pasta per person). Use a large pan and add the pasta to the water once it's boiling and never before.

Turkey laksa with chilli & lime

PREPARATION TIME 20 minutes

COOKING TIME 15 minutes SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

● 1 litre turkey stock (made from the roasted carcass), skimmed and well-strained ● 4 spring onions, sliced ● 2 shallots, finely chopped

● 3 garlic cloves, crushed ● 2 birds eye chillies, chopped ● 5cm piece of ginger, finely grated ● 6 kaffir lime leaves, torn ● 400ml coconut milk ● 1 tbsp sesame oil ● 1 tbsp fish sauce

● juice of 1 lime, plus extra lime wedges to serve ● 2 tsp finely grated palm sugar or light brown sugar ● 200g vermicelli rice noodles, cooked ● 500g leftover cooked turkey meat, shredded ● 200g tender stem broccoli, trimmed and cooked ● a few sprigs of mint and some coriander leaves, to serve ● 1 birds eye chilli, sliced, to serve

METHOD

1 Put the stock in a pan with the spring onions, shallots, garlic, chopped chilli, ginger, lime leaves, coconut milk, sesame oil, fish sauce, lime juice and sugar. Bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes.

2 Reduce the heat to medium. Add the noodles, turkey and broccoli. Cook for a further 5 minutes or until the turkey is piping hot. Transfer to bowls, top with some sprigs of mint and coriander leaves and serve with the sliced chilli and lime wedges.

Luxury shredded Brussels sprouts VG

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes

COOKING TIME 15 minutes SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

● 300g Brussels sprouts ● olive oil ● juice and zest of 1 lemon ● salt and pepper, to taste

● 2 tbsp vegan white wine ● 60g seasoned breadcrumbs ● 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts

● 3 tbsp vegan Parmesan

METHOD

1 Slice the ends off the sprouts and chop them in half. Place them flat side down and finely chop until they are all shredded.

2 Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large frying pan or wok to medium heat, add the sprouts, lemon zest, seasoning and cook for 5 minutes.

3 Add the wine and cook for a further 5 minutes.

4 Add 1 tbsp of olive oil and the lemon juice and cook for another 5-10 minutes.

5 Pour the sprout mixture into a serving dish. Drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil and stir through the breadcrumbs, pine nuts and vegan Parmesan Season with salt and pepper, to serve.

Pappardelle pasta with mushroom, turkey & Parmesan

After a lazy Boxing Day lie-in, wake up with this super-special brunch

Panettone French toast with cherry compote

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes COOKING TIME 10 minutes SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS For the compote

Opies Black Cherries with Kirsch, and reserved syrup

100g fresh raspberries

100g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced For the French toast

large slices of leftover Panettone, 2cm thick slices cut into 4 triangles

icing sugar to dust

150g double cream METHOD

To make the cherry compote, combine the Black Cherries with Kirsch with 4 tbsp of syrup, raspberries and strawberries in a bowl and then set to one side.

In a small mixing bowl beat together the eggs, cream, vanilla essence and sugar.

Melt the butter in a large, non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Coat each side of the panettone in the egg mixture and immediately fry slices in the pan for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. 4 Beat the double cream until thickened and then serve immediately with the berry compote spooned over each slice and dusted with icing sugar. COOK’S TIP For a lighter option, serve with Greek yogurt or quark. As an alternative, replace the panettone with brioche or fruit loaf slices.

Recipes Turkey pappardelle pasta –Rachel Green for goldenturkeys.co.uk; Turkey laska –goldenturkeys.co.uk; Luxury shredded Brussels sprouts –veganrecipeclub.org.uk; Panettone French toast with boozy cherry compote –opiesfoods.com

MADE TO SHARE

Whether you’re hosting or taking a plate to a gathering, these delicious party snacks will keep everyone going well into the New Year!

Rum and honey chilli-glazed pork belly bites with spiced Jazz apple butter

PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes

COOKING TIME 1 hour 15 minutes

SERVES 10-12 canapé skewers

INGREDIENTS

ł

500g pork belly slices ł flaked sea salt

For the glaze

This butternut squash Christmas wreath recipe is from The Veggie Christmas Cookbook by Heather Thomas (HarperNonFiction, £12.99 Hardback). Photography by Joff Lee

ł

150ml Goslings Black Seal Bermuda rum ł 3 tbsp clear honey ł 3 tbsp soy sauce ł 1 tbsp chilli paste ł 1 star anise ł pinch of ground cloves

For the spiced apple butter

ł

500g Jazz apples, cored and quartered ł 60ml apple cider vinegar ł 120ml water ł generous pinch flaked sea salt ł 85g packed light brown sugar ł ½ tsp ground cinnamon ł ¼ tsp ground cloves ł 1/8 tsp allspice

Equipment10-12 long canapé skewers

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C Fan/Gas Mark 7. Pat the pork belly slices dry with kitchen roll, then place them onto a roasting pan with a rack, with the fatty side facing up. Add a layer of water to the bottom of the pan, making sure the water doesn’t touch the meat. Rub the top of the slices with flaked sea salt and roast until the pork is soft and the crackling is dark and completely crispy, this will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

2 To make the glaze, combine the rum, honey, soy sauce, chilli paste, star anise and ground cloves in a small pan and heat over a medium heat. Whisk well and once the sauce comes to a boil, reduce the heat a little and simmer for 12-15 minutes until it’s a slightly thickened syrup. The glaze will continue to thicken as it rests, so don’t overcook.

3 Remove the star anise and set the glaze aside to cool. If it has thickened too much by the time the pork is ready, simply warm over a low heat for a minute or so to loosen it up again (adding a small splash of water if needed).

4 To make the spiced apple butter, core and quarter the apples without peeling them. Place in a medium saucepan, along with the vinegar, water and salt. Simmer on a medium/low heat, partially covered, for 20-30 minutes until the apples are completely soft, stirring occasionally.

5 Transfer the apples and liquid to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour the apple sauce back into the pot, leaving it off the heat while adding the sugar and spices. Stir in the sugar and spices, then simmer the apple sauce over a medium heat for 30 minutes, stirring every few minutes to keep the apple butter from burning.

6 Once the apple butter has started to thicken and turn dark brown, reduce the heat to medium low and continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes until the apple butter has reached the consistency of your preference and the pork belly is cooked.

7 Once the pork belly is crispy, cut the slices into bite-sized pieces and place them onto canapé skewers, 2-3 pieces per skewer. Brush each piece with a generous amount of glaze and serve with spiced apple butter for dipping.

Butternut squash Christmas wreath

PREPARATION TIME 30 minutes COOKING TIME 50-60 minutes SERVES 4-6

INGREDIENTS

V

baking tray. Using a 27cm flan tin or dinner plate as a guide, place it on top of each puff pastry sheet and cut round it to make a large circle. Set aside the pastry trimmings for later (see Cook’s tip).

3 Next, use a smaller plate to lightly score out an inner circle in the centre of each round. Use a sharp knife to cut through the pastry of the inner circle, first lengthways, then widthways, and again through the quarters to create 8 sections.

ł 900g butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and cut into small cubes ł 2 red onions, thinly sliced ł 2 tbsp olive oil ł 2 tbsp maple syrup

ł 4 unpeeled whole garlic cloves ł 2 x 375g packs of ready-rolled puff pastry ł 100g baby spinach leaves ł 85g shelled pistachios ł 1 red chilli, deseeded and diced ł 100g grated Cheddar cheese ł 4 tsp green pesto ł 4 tsp cranberry sauce ł 1 medium free-range egg, beaten ł sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas Mark 6. Line 2 baking trays with baking parchment. Place the squash and red onions on 2 other baking trays and drizzle with the olive oil and maple syrup. Tuck the garlic cloves in between, season lightly with salt and pepper and roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and starting to caramelise.

2 Meanwhile, roll out the pastry sheets, if needed, until they are about 6mm thick and big enough to cut a large round from. Place each one on a lined

4 Squeeze the garlic out of the skins and stir into the hot roasted squash and onion mixture. Add the spinach and leave it to wilt slightly and soften. Place spoonfuls of the mixture in a ring around each pastry disc, avoiding the outer edge and the central star.

5 Sprinkle with the pistachios, chilli and grated cheese. Drizzle alternately with pesto and cranberry sauce around the ring on top.

6 Work your way round each disc, raising the outer edge a little and pulling the point of each cut inner section over the filling towards the pastry edge. Pinch them together with your fingers to seal. Lightly brush the pastry with beaten egg and, if using, attach some pastry stars (see Cook’s tip).

7 Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until puffed up, crisp and golden brown. Serve warm or cold, it’s delicious either way!

COOK’S TIP To make decorative pastry stars, roll out the pastry trimmings and stamp out some stars with a star-shaped pastry cutter. Attach to the pastry wreath with beaten egg then brush with more beaten egg before baking.

Feature Kirstie Duhig Recipe Rum and honey chilli-glazed pork belly bites –Jazz apples; jazzapple.com/uk

Beetroot and pomegranate dip V

INGREDIENTS

ł 1 garlic clove, peeled ł 300g cooked beetroot ł 3 tbsp natural yoghurt ł 1 lemon, juice and zest ł 3 tbsp tahini ł 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses ł 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, finely chopped, plus a few whole ł ½ tsp salt ł 100g pomegranate seeds ł vegetable crudités, crackers or flat bread, to serve

METHOD

1 Place the garlic and beetroot in a food processor or blender along with a few tbsp of juice from the beetroot and process until smooth.

2 Add the natural yoghurt, lemon zest and juice, tahini, pomegranate molasses, mint and salt and blend for 2-3 minutes more, until really smooth. You may need to add a splash of cold water if your mixture is looking very thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

3 Spoon into a serving bowl and sprinkle over pomegranate seeds and mint leaves and serve with vegetable crudités, crackers or flat bread.

treat is

party centrepiece

Vegan pesto tree tear and share VG

Smoked mackerel paté

PREPARATION TIME 5 minutes SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

ł 1 x 200g pack smoked mackerel fillets

ł 100g soft cheese ł 30g horseradish sauce

ł 30g salted butter, at room temperature ł ½ lemon, juice ł 6g fresh parsley, chopped ł 50g mayonnaise

METHOD

1 Take the skins off the mackerel and break them up then add to a food processor with all the other ingredients and blend. Serve with toast or crackers.

PREPARATION TIME 25 minutes, plus 1 hour resting time COOKING TIME 25 minutes MAKES 1 loaf

INGREDIENTS

For the bread dough

ł 125ml unsweetened plant milk ł 100ml warm water ł 1 tsp white sugar ł 2¼ tsp instant yeast ł 60ml light olive oil ł 400g strong white bread flour ł 1¼ tsp salt

For the filling

ł 120g green (vegan) pesto ł 1 tbsp unsweetened plant milk, to glaze ł vegan Parmesan, to top (optional)

METHOD

1 Warm the plant milk and water and add to a large

mixing bowl. Then add the sugar, yeast, olive oil, flour and salt. Bring together all the ingredients and knead for approximately 10 minutes. Cover and let the dough rest at room temperature for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2 Cut the dough into thirds, then roll out every third into a triangle shape. Use a spoon to spread pesto equally across the surface of the first triangle. Cover with the second triangle and add pesto again. Cover with the final triangle.

3 Cut straight‘branches’either side of the tree –leaving a‘trunk’in the centre – and twist each branch to create a twirl.

4 Brush the top of the bread with 1 tbsp unsweetened plant milk to glaze. Cover with a damp cloth and allow to rise for at least 45 minutes.

5 Bake at 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas Mark 6 for approximately 25 minutes until golden on the outside. Once baked, sprinkle with vegan Parmesan if desired, and serve warm or cooled.

COOK’S TIP Make this a sweet treat by replacing pesto with vegan jam and leave out the Parmesan!

This tear and share

your

Goat’s cheese and watercress cheesecakes with red onion marmalade

PREPARATION TIME 1 hour, plus 1 hour setting time

COOKING TIME 1 hour SERVES 10

INGREDIENTS

For the marmalade

● 1 tbsp oil ● 400g red onion, finely sliced

● 1 garlic clove, finely chopped ● salt ● 350g redcurrant jelly ● 50g balsamic vinegar ● 2 juniper berries ● 3 sprigs of thyme ● 2 cloves

For the cheesecakes

● 120g ready-made puff pastry and some plain flour for rolling ● 20g sesame seeds ● 20g poppy seeds ● 120g unsalted butter, soft ● 100g cream cheese ● 250g good quality soft goat’s cheese

● 150ml double cream ● 1 leaf bronze gelatine

● 35g watercress, stalks discarded ● black pepper

Equipment

● muslin cloth

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas Mark 4.

2 To make the red onion marmalade, add the oil to a saucepan over a medium heat, then cook the onion and garlic with a good pinch of salt until softened. Add the redcurrant jelly and balsamic vinegar to the pan, then wrap the juniper berries, thyme and cloves in a muslin cloth. Tie at the top then also add this to the pan. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once the liquid has reduced to a syrup, remove the herbs from the pan and allow the marmalade to chill in the fridge.

3 To make the base of the cheesecakes, flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry to around half a centimetre thickness then place on a baking tray and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Leave to cool then break up and add to a food processor along with the sesame and poppy seeds and a pinch of salt. Blend until a breadcrumblike consistency is reached, then add the soft butter and blend again until combined.

4 Line a deep baking tray with baking paper, ensuring that the paper covers the sides and comes over the top of the tray. Press the pastry into the tray, ensuring that it is even. Leave to rest in the fridge for one hour.

5 To make the cheesecake topping, beat the cream cheese and goat’s cheese together until smooth using an electric mixer. In a small pan, bring the cream to the boil then set aside.

6 Soak the gelatine in cold water until softened, then squeeze out any excess water and whisk into the warm cream until completely melted and combined. Add the cream and gelatine mixture to the cheese and whisk until smooth. Finely chop the watercress leaves then fold through the cheese mixture along with some freshly ground black pepper.

7 Pour the cheese mix over the base and allow to set until firm, this will take around 2-3 hours. Once set, carefully remove from the tray using the corners of the baking paper.

8 For round canapés, use a small metal pastry cutter. Alternatively, use a sharp knife to cut squares. Dip the cutter or knife into a jug of hot water between cuts to both clean the blades and give a smoother finish. Arrange the canapés on a plate or slate, then top with the chilled red onion jam and a small sprig of watercress to garnish.

Vegan chocolate and coconut caramel pots

PREPARATION TIME 30 minutes, plus 1 hour chilling COOKING TIME 15 minutes SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

● 200ml coconut milk ● 2 pitted Medjool dates, roughly chopped ●1 tsp vanilla bean paste

● 100g vegan dark chocolate, finely chopped

● 250ml carton Oatly Whippable Creamy Oat

● 1 tbsp maple syrup ● Cocoa powder, to dust

METHOD

1 Put the coconut milk, dates and vanilla in a blender and whizz until smooth. Tip into a small pan and bring to the boil. Simmer, stirring regularly, for 10 minutes until thick and reduced by half. Divide between 4 small glasses and set aside to cool, then cover and chill for at least 1 hour.

2 When the coconut caramel has chilled, put the chocolate in a medium mixing bowl. In a small pan, heat 100ml whippable creamy oat and the maple syrup to just before boiling. Take off the heat and pour over the chocolate in the bowl. Leave to melt for 1 minute, then stir until smooth.

3 Put the remaining 150ml whippable creamy oat in another mixing bowl and use electric beaters to whisk to soft peaks. Set aside 2 tbsp to garnish, then fold the rest into the melted chocolate. Spoon into the glasses on top of the coconut caramel. Serve with a dollop of the whipped creamy oat and a dusting of cocoa powder. These are best served immediately.

Sparkly sloe gin jellies

PREPARATION TIME 25 minutes, plus 30 minutes infusing and 4 hours to set SERVES 8

INGREDIENTS

● 50g granulated sugar ● orange rind, 2 broad strips ● 5 leaves gelatine ●

METHOD

1 Warm the sugar in a pan with the orange rind and 150ml water. Stir until the sugar dissolves then bring to the boil. Take off heat and leave for 30 minutes to infuse.

2 Soften the gelatine in a bowl of cold water for 5 minutes.

3 Warm the orange syrup in the pan and remove the orange rind. Squeeze the water out of the gelatine, add it to the syrup and stir well.

4 Pour the jelly mix into a large jug, stir in the sloe gin and leave until starting to set. Gradually stir in the wine until most of the froth has subsided and the jelly is setting. Pour into shot glasses. Chill for 4 hours or overnight until set. Decorate with berries.

R ecipes Beetroot and pomegranate dip –poppinpoms.com; Smoked mackerel paté –aldi.co.uk/recipes; Pesto Christmas tree tear and share –talacooking.com; Goat’s cheese and watercress cheesecakes with red onion marmalade –watercress.co.uk; Sparkly sloe gin jellies –dairydiary.co.uk; Chocolate and coconut caramel pots –Waitrose, thousands of recipes can be found at waitrose.co.uk/recipes

After two years of closure, Angel is delighted to be hosting weddings and get-togethers at Château de la Motte-Husson again. ‘When we were looking for our house, we wanted it to be a place where we would have celebrations,’ she says. ‘This year has been exceptional’

IN CONVERSATION WITH

Angel Strawbridge

This month, we catch up with the EscapetotheChâteau star as she gets the family’s fairytale home in France ready for Christmas

You bought the ultimate doer-upper – how’s it been?

Our decision to buy a château with no water, electricity, heating or sewage has taken us on the adventure of a lifetime and we could never have imagined what would unfold. The good, the bad and the ugly… we have cherished every second.

Why do you think EscapetotheChâteau has been such a huge hit?

I think it’s just because we’re normal. We have a regular family, but we’re doing things on a slightly bigger scale. Also, it’s very achievable. I know, we’ve got a beautiful home, but we actually didn’t pay that much for it, and a lot of the craft that I do is really quite easy.

This is the final series of EscapetotheChâteau – what do you think will be the show’s legacy? What has been very humbling is that it has touched people’s lives on quite a personal level. People will say they’ve had someone sadly pass away, and the show has been their escapism. That has been something that was completely unexpected but has meant a lot to us. I don’t know what type of legacy we’ll leave but let’s hope it’s a positive one.

How are the renovations going?

It’s our forever home; it’s a forever project. The floors need redoing again because of a busy wedding season, things need re-painting and we’ve still got rooms in the attic that need renovating. And then we’ve got all of our outbuildings – most of them have not been touched. Everywhere I look there is something to do!

What’s next on your to-do list?

We’ve got a few big projects coming up, the windows being number one. We never quite agreed on what was the right answer because Dick has sustainability at the forefront, and I didn’t want to compromise on the aesthetic of it. In an ideal world, we’d have a beautiful artisan window with the curved edges, but they’d also be double-glazed, and they would be painted in a way that lasts for years and years. If you try and put all of that on your wishlist, it’s almost impossible!

How do you and Dick reach a joint decision?

Dick has a saying: ‘You can have anything, but you can’t have everything’. So basically, the ball is back in my court as to what I do have. We do have our vetoes – we both have to agree on things and sometimes (every day) we argue about it. But it’s arguing with passion and fundamental love, so it’s not a big deal.

What’s your favourite room in your home?

That’s a hard question. It’s one less to choosing your favourite child. They’ve all got their different special bits. I love the honeymoon suite because that has the wallpaper museum, which was one of the first things I did that got really recognised on EscapetotheChâteau

Thanks to DIY know-how and clever décor hacks, Dick and Angel have brought their once abandoned French château back to life

Angel loves to make these oversized baubles for Christmas.

For Dick and Angel, Christmas is all about spending quality time together

Wildflower Garden cushion, £27

Emerald Fan lampshade, £78.30

Our decision to buy a château with no water or electricity has taken us on the adventure of a lifetime

What are your tips for decorating on a budget?

Have an end vision, even if it’s just a vibe, a colour palette or an era. You need to have that first otherwise you can be scattered and bring too many things together. Also, buy from charity shops – you’ll get exceptional quality for a fraction of the price. The other thing is giving things a go. If you need curtains, for example, try making them!

How important is sustainability to you?

For Dick, that’s his background. He has always been sustainable. Because of that, it’s been a massive part of our lives. We try not to waste anything or buy new. For me, I didn’t understand sustainability to the same extent but, without knowing it, I’ve always been quite good for the environment because I didn’t really buy anything new. Buying second-hand is fun and you find things that are really unique.

Do you miss anything from the UK?

I really miss the car boot sales that you have there. There’s one line, so you know where you’ve been and what you’ve seen. In France, the car boot sales take over whole villages so it’s down every street. I get lost!

Congratulations on your homeware collection, The Château…

Every piece tells a story of our lives at the château. Simple things like the herons that Dorothy and Dick

watch every morning and the pumpkins Arthur grew in Daddy’s walled garden, to the excitement of discovering hidden treasures. It’s our love story.

What’s Christmas like at the château? It’s gorgeous. It’s the one time of year where we truly get to stop. We play games, snuggle up and go for lots of walks. This year, we’ve got our big Christmas extravaganza where a lot of our friends and family are coming to the château and we’re really excited because we haven’t seen some of them for years. It’s going to be joyous.

Do you have any favourite festive traditions? Arthur adores making gingerbread houses – he spends hours painting them. I have a tradition every year where me, my mum and Dorothy go out and get loads of foliage to make things. It’s always a really crafty time of year; it’s lovely.

What’s next?

We’re writing our third book, then we’re off to Australia on our DaretoDoIttour and we’ve got a new show with Channel 4 coming out in 2023: EscapetotheChâteau:SecretFrance That’s just the headlines – we’ve got a really busy year ahead!

Shop Angel's home range at thechateau.tv Watch EscapetotheChâteauon Sundays at 8pm on Channel 4 until 18th December

Angel's festive decorating tips

1 When it comes to Christmas baubles, the bigger the better! We love making giant ones from old foam footballs. Cover the ball in fabric, divide sections with braiding and tie a ribbon from the ball. Hang in a window or from a mantelpiece.

2 Personalise a Christmas wreath with dried fruit, gold walnuts or mini ornaments. If it’s attachable by wire, it works!

3 Forage for festive foliage to style up a mantelpiece – eucalyptus always looks gorgeous! Bring colour to your display by dotting dried orange slices and baubles among the greenery.

4 Put the tree decorations on with the lights lit, so you can see the gaps. We took apart an old chandelier and used every crystal on our tree.

5 Create garlands with leftover wrapping paper or use simple brown kraft paper and draw your own festive designs onto them.

6 Consider making your own advent calendar. Little tin buckets filled with treats is a fun option!

Emerald Fan cushion, £27

Le Cirque du Château lampshade, £61.20

Mademoiselle Daisy cushion, £27

Moonlight bedding set, from £62.10

Angel's homeware designs are inspired by the family’s life at the château, including this stunning Bamboo Folly wallpaper mural

Remarkable Renovations

Transform your existing staircase in 48 hours with a Neville Johnson renovation. No building work, mess or fuss.