Homeowner told to take down beloved 4ft gorilla statue from front of house or risk £20,000 fine
Adele Teale has been ordered to remove a gorilla statue from the front of her house after losing a planning appeal
Advice
Want better odds of planning approval? Don't forget these essential documents when submitting your application, says planning expert
Our planning consultant expert explains why Planning and Supporting Statements are often the difference between rejection and approval for self-build, renovation and extension projects
'Think of black like a sophisticated eyeliner that defines the space' – tips on using this bold colour like an interior designer
If you're feeling bold enough to brave black in your interior design scheme, make sure you follow this expert advice before you begin
The ‘high-low’ decorating mindset designers swear by – it could save your budget without sacrificing the finished look
Do interiors that look good always have to blow your budget? Experts reveal where to spend, where to save and how to make your home look more expensive than it is
The verdict is in — experts agree these are the worst flooring types for a kitchen and reveal what to choose instead
From solid wood that warps to high-gloss finishes that show every mark, here's what flooring experts say never truly stands the test of time in a kitchen
Your Projects
'I couldn’t have chosen anything more complicated' – step inside this converted Victorian chapel, now a contemporary home
Tim Brown rescued a decaying city centre chapel and transformed it into an exceptional modern home packed with unique features
This 'ugly duckling' home got a modern makeover with two timber-clad side extensions
Blending modern style with Arts and Crafts charm, this renovated period home proves what’s possible with the right vision
'Our home generates more energy than it uses' – step inside this ultra-efficient self-build
Explore a modern self-build where sustainability meets smart design, all while carefully integrating into its verdant setting
'We wanted to reuse and recycle what we already had' – step inside this low-waste extension designed with the planet in mind
The eco-conscious owners of a London terrace embarked on a zero-waste mission that exceeded all expectations
How To
Have you ever tried cleaning your washing machine filter? Water usually gets everywhere — but not with these cheap and simple tricks
When your washing machine won't drain, it's time to clean its filter. We show how to, all while making as little mess as possible
Experts reveal the only way to go about Japanese knotweed removal if you find it in your garden
Japanese knotweed removal is essential as it can bring your build or renovation plans to a grinding halt. Here, we explain the damage this plant can do and how to get rid of it
Installing mosaic tiles can be easy — but you need the right tools to ensure great adhesion, perfect spacing and a professional finish
Discover the essential tools and the subtle differences you need to know when laying mosaic tiles compared to standard tiles
What is the minimum water pressure you should have in a house? Plus, how to increase it
A lack of water pressure in the home is annoying and needs to be sorted out. Experts reveal how to test, resolve the issue and when its time to call in your water company
Ideas
‘Your family living room shouldn’t look like a playroom’ – interior designers share 15 chic ideas for a more elevated space
From clever storage to durable yet elegant furniture, these expert-approved ideas prove family living rooms can still feel sophisticated
12 budget small garden ideas that make spaces feel bigger and more stylish – without a hefty price tag
From upcycled furniture to clever space-enhancing tricks, there are plenty of ways to transform a small garden without spending a fortune
Buying Guides
The 6 best home security systems of 2026 that offer smart, simple and reliable protection
The best home security systems offer much more than a traditional burglar alarm and provide comprehensive monitoring
I've researched and tested the best smart hubs to simplify your home automation – these are my top 6 recommendations
Looking for the best smart home hub? Here are the top-rated buys we recommend you invest in after testing and comparing reviews
The 6 best smart thermostats to cut energy bills and control heating remotely
We’ve found the best smart thermostats to help heat your home efficiently and lower your energy bills
The 6 best range cookers — how to choose the right model for your kitchen
Want the best range cooker for your new kitchen? Look no further as we round up the top models out there
