Why compostable coffee pods can’t go in food waste bins under new recycling rules
Government guidance under Simpler Recycling confirms that compostable coffee pods are not accepted in household food waste collections across England
Advice
How many decking boards do I need? This simple formula makes it easy to calculate
Find out how many decking boards you need to buy using our expert’s quick and easy formula
I lowered the flow temperature on my gas boiler to see if it would reduce energy bills — here's what I discovered
A lower boiler flow temperature should lead to lower energy bills, but did it work? Find out what happened when this homeowner tested the theory
How to navigate VAT concessions for conversions when creating a new home
Claiming back VAT on your conversion could recoup you some of your build costs, but only if you know how. Build expert, Michael Holmes explores the rules
Why your extension's drainage needs planning before a build — and the problems that could happen if you get it wrong
The low-down on how to get your extension's drainage right to avoid any expensive and time-consuming mistakes
Your Projects
Step inside this unique copper-clad eco home that's 'shaped like origami'
A commitment to the environment led an Oxfordshire couple to design and build an eco-friendly house that stands out for all the right reasons
Explore this ultra-modern home where a bold design 'maximises light and views'
In their quest to turn a derelict site into a home with a view, Nicola Robinson and David Carr rejected tradition in favour of cuboid perfection
'We took a big risk on a derelict tower and it paid off' – step inside this converted substation with sweeping Cornish views
Morveth and Abi Ward fell in love with a derelict industrial building and cleverly converted it into an award-winning home
'We turned the top of our Victorian terrace into a Manhattan-inspired loft – the views across London are amazing'
Perched above a locally listed Victorian terrace, this ambitious loft conversion was inspired by classic New York architecture and overlooks central London
'A LEGO model inspired my home's new layout' – inside an extended London terrace transformed with playful design features
A kitchen pod and clever sliding screens were just some of the ingenious techniques used by Graeme Bulcraig to turn his tired 1960s end-of-terrace into a flexible family home
From neglected outbuilding to rural masterpiece – take a tour of this barn-style self-build with panoramic countryside views
Annicka Locket and James Terry reimagined a derelict building with an inventive upside-down layout, creating a modern barn-inspired home that frames rural views from its light-filled upper floor
How To
You need to get drilling into brick right. Follow this guide for all you need to know
Drilling into brick is a key DIY skill, needed for all kinds of home improvement projects. Here’s everything you need to know but were too afraid to ask
5 expert-approved ways to get rid of ants (and keep them out for good)
Sick of ants overrunning your kitchen? Here's how to banish them and stop them from coming back, according to three pest control experts
Using a blunt drill bit means more work and less control. Find out how to sharpen a drill bit for quick, clean drilling
Learn how to keep your wood, metal and masonry drill bits sharp and ready for action
Using the wrong drill bits when drilling into tile will leave your tiles chipped and cracked. Find out how to ensure this doesn’t happen
Looking for advice for drilling into tiles in your bathroom or kitchen? Try these tips from our DIY expert to avoid cracks and ensure your drill is up to the job
Ideas
I’m finally creating my dream reading nook – here are some of the cosiest ideas I’ve found on Wayfair
From a built-in bookcase to a luxe home bar, I’ve found some of the best ways to create a relaxing reading nook you’ll never want to leave
Scandi bathroom ideas to nail the relaxing Nordic look in your home
From pale wood and stone to making the case for a home sauna, here's how to bring true Scandinavian calm to your bathroom
Buying Guides
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
The 6 best kitchen cabinet paints to refresh tired cupboard doors
The best kitchen cabinet paints can be an inexpensive and easy way to revitalise your cupboards – browse these editor-approved options
