Could you turn this Dutch-style barn into your forever home?
Nestled within three acres of countryside and complete with a Dutch-style barn, this picturesque plot could be yours for £450,000
Advice
'The biggest self-build disasters often come down to this one overlooked area' – don't make the same error on your project
I've seen too many self-builds and renovations run into costly delays and disputes because the crucial step of contract administration was overlooked. As an architect, I'll explain why getting it right from day one can make all the difference
Professional fees are a necessary part of your build costs, but how much should you set aside?
Building or renovating a home isn't just about the actual build costs, there are other fees too. Our quantity surveyor explains what to expect
'The secret to a nice-smelling home starts long before you light a candle' – 5 expert-approved solutions for long-lasting freshness
Learn how to create a home that smells fresh naturally by choosing the right materials, ventilation and layout – instead of relying on candles and air fresheners to mask the problem
Is coloured sanitaryware making a comeback in real bathrooms – or is it just for moodboards?
From lasting power to resale value, here's what the experts say before you commit to a colourful bathroom suite
Your Projects
'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
'The changes have transformed our lives' – step inside this extended bungalow, redesigned to maximise its coastal plot
Adding a double-height glazed extension to a tired bungalow on the Suffolk coast took seaside living to a new level for Jo and Richard
‘It’s been future-proofed in lots of ways’ – step inside this oak frame self-build with stunning views and zero electricity bills
Having found the plot that was right for them, Jo and David built a home with one eye on their future needs
Step inside this Arts and Crafts-style self-build that 'looks like it’s been here since 1902'
For Anna and David Cross, one of the biggest decisions of their homebuilding project was deciding on a style – but help was at hand
How To
How to bring your brown lawn back to life after a hot summer
If the sun has taken its toll on your garden, our four-step guide will show you how to restore a brown lawn to its former green glory
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
How do you clean a roof lantern without calling in the professionals? I really want one but am worried it'll always look dirty
Experts reveal the secrets behind keeping a roof lantern sparkling clean yourself so you don't always have to pay for a window cleaner
Water pouring out of your washing machine's detergent tray? Don't panic — here’s how I fixed mine
Before you pay expensive call-out charges, find out how I restored my washing machine when it was leaking from the tray. It’s easier than you might expect
Avoid mistakes and having to start again with our expert guide to wallpapering around sockets
Getting neat edges when cutting wallpaper around sockets requires the right tools and tricks. We explain how to get a professional-looking result
How I pulled up my old vinyl kitchen floor planks and replaced them, plus the secret weapons I use to ensure a professional result
Replacing your old flooring with new self-adhesive vinyl planks is a quick, cost-effective and DIY-friendly update. Find out how to do it and the tools you'll need
Ideas
10 rules for getting mid-century design ideas right – and the mistakes to always avoid
Starburst clocks are out, clean lines and garden views are in. Here's how to give mid-century design the justice it deserves
Cancel your gym membership – these 9 home gym ideas will bring your workout way closer to home
From garden rooms to garage conversions, these home gym ideas prove you can get serious about fitness without ever leaving the house
Buying Guides
We tested the best cooling fans to beat the heatwave – and they're selling out fast
These tried-and-tested cooling fans impressed us the most when temperatures soared
We've found the 6 best paint sprayers that will give you a smooth, even finish every time
Want a professional-quality finish at a fraction of the cost? You'll want to get your hands on one of the best paint sprayers
Goodbye condensation and grimy glass! We've tested the 5 best window vacs for banishing moisture and keeping windows crystal clear
Whether you're battling condensation, cleaning shower screens or freshening up windows, these are the five window vacs that impressed us most in our hands-on tests
Lightweight, low maintenance and easy to use – we found the 6 best cordless strimmers for a neat and tidy garden
The best cordless strimmers can tackle an overgrown garden while neatening lawn edges and hard-to-reach areas
