I’ve seen the future of housework and DIY – and it’s surprisingly clever
After exploring IFA Berlin, these are the most promising new appliances and smart-home gadgets I think could genuinely change life at home
Advice
I wasn't convinced that a smart thermostat would change my heating habits – until I tried one for myself
Keen to save money on rising energy bills, our expert home renovator invested in a Hive thermostat to see if it really would improve his home heating
Where to buy plug-in solar panels that are legally compliant – and won't get you into trouble
Plug-in solar panels are finally legal in the UK, but that doesn't mean you can buy the first ones you see. Here's a selection of ones that are approved
All my exterior woodwork has dried out and cracked in the summer heat – what can I do to bring it back to life again?
If, like me, you've noticed your exterior woodwork looks a little worse for wear after the recent heatwaves, experts explain how to deal with the problem
Bored with the 'quiet luxury' trend? This monochrome surface could be the loud – but elegant – antidote you've been searching for
If you're after a surface material to create an instant focal point within your home we might just have the solution
Your Projects
‘Buying a site without planning permission was a risk’ – step inside this future-proofed self-build with countryside views from every angle
A dated, post-war building has been replaced by a new hi-tech home that sits cosily within its Cotswold setting
‘The building was in such an appalling state’ – step inside this historic lakeside castle transformed into a magical modern-day home
From the moment he spotted a neglected lakeside ruin, Joe Radmore was on a mission to give it the regal treatment
From a dark, cluttered home to a sunlit sanctuary, see how a glazed extension transformed this Edwardian London terrace
Prioritising sustainable materials and a strong link to the outdoors has turned an Edwardian London terrace into a peaceful, contemporary home
'Our home has become a retreat' – step inside this extended Victorian lodge that embraces the old and the new
David and Catherine McIntosh gave new life to their historic Hertfordshire home with a sensitive blend of period charm and contemporary design
How To
How I fitted cane webbing to my cupboard door fronts for an instant face-lift
Fitting cane webbing to cupboard doors can give you a soft and sophisticated effect, and be a more practical solution too
Worried you won't be able to revive your lawn once the drought is over? Save this advice and you'll get your lawn looking lush once again
While water is still scarce, there's not much you can do about your brown lawn. But, our four-step guide explains how to restore it to its former green glory once heatwaves and hosepipe bans are no more
This simple £5 decorating tool may be old-fashioned, but it can help keep you on the straight and narrow
It may have been around for years, but understanding how to use a plumb bob and line can make your tiling, wallpapering and measurements more accurate
Fed up with the constant whirr of your washing machine? Here's how to soundproof a utility room for a quieter life
Noisy utility rooms aren't great, but there are solutions. From walls, ceilings, floors, and doors, to choosing appliances well, here's what experts recommend
Ideas
Why ornamental grasses deserve a starring role in your garden – 10 inspiring ways to use these versatile plants
Easy to grow and full of texture, grasses can transform a garden with movement and structure. These are our favourite ways to include these low-maintenance plants in your outdoor space
This simple driveway detail can make your home look so much neater – 10 clever ideas to try
Want a more polished-looking entrance? These driveway edging ideas show how bricks, planting, lighting and more can keep the exterior of your home looking sharp
Buying Guides
The 6 best stove fans to boost heat from your log burner
Want more from your log burner? We’ve found the best stove fans to circulate heat, minimise cold spots and help you save on your energy bills
We tested the best cordless drills for DIY – these 6 impressed us most
Want the best cordless drill for your toolkit? We've shortlisted our top picks, including impact drivers, combi drills and hammer drills
Fed up with condensation and dirty windows? We tested the 5 best window vacs that make cleaning a breeze
The best window vacs will leave your glass, shower screens and mirrors squeaky clean and condensation-free. Find out which options we recommend after hands-on testing
The 6 best integrated dishwashers that make light work of washing up
Take the hassle out of washing up with one of the best integrated dishwashers, with options from Miele, Bosch, Beko and more
