
Hugh Metcalf
Hugh is editor of sister title Livingetc.com and former digital editor of homebuilding.co.uk. He has worked on a range of home, design and property magazines, including Grand Designs, Essential Kitchens, Bathrooms, Bedrooms and Good Homes. Hugh has developed a passion for modern architecture and green homes, and moonlights as an interior designer, having designed and managed projects ranging from single rooms to whole house renovations and large extensions. He's currently renovating his own Victorian terrace in Essex, DIYing as much of the work as possible. He's recently finished his kitchen renovation, which involved knocking through walls, and landscaping a courtyard garden, and is currently working on a bathroom renovation.
Latest articles by Hugh Metcalf

How to Light a Kitchen: Design Advice from the Experts
By Hugh Metcalf last updated
Need expert advice on how to light a kitchen? Here's our guide to creating rich, layered lighting scheme which is both practical and attractive in this key room

How to Measure for Laminate Flooring, Estimate Quantities and Cut to Fit
By Hugh Metcalf last updated
Not sure how to measure for laminate flooring? We ask the experts for their top tips, advice and need-to-know basics to ensure you order enough

Can I Build an Extension Myself? When and When not to DIY, Explained
By Hugh Metcalf last updated
Tempted to tackle the challenge of building an extension yourself? Here's our advice on when and where it's worth undertaking DIY in your project

What is an Angle Grinder Used for? Here's 7 Handy Uses for Your Build
By Hugh Metcalf published
Before you add one to your toolkit, it's worth considering what an angle grinder is used for. Here, we look at 7 home projects suited to using this versatile tool

What is Limewash Paint? Here's What you Need to Know
By Hugh Metcalf published
From its breathable nature to its unique finish, limewash paint has plenty to offer your home. Find out more with our guide to using limewash on walls

Recycling Building Materials: 7 Ways to Reduce Your Project’s Waste
By Hugh Metcalf published
By recycling building materials, you can reduce the waste that occurs during a build and make sure your extension, self build or renovation is as green as possible

Underfloor Heating With Carpet: Does it Work?
By Hugh Metcalf published
Underfloor heating with carpet might sound good in theory, but does it work in practice? We get expert advice on what you'll need to consider

Covering Radiator Pipes: 6 Ideas to Hide Unsightly Plumbing
By Hugh Metcalf published
For an elevated finish to your room, covering radiator pipes is a must. Here's 6 options to transform pipework from an eyesore to a charming detail

Eco Insulation: 8 Sustainable Options for Insulating Your Home
By Hugh Metcalf published
Eco insulation holds up against manmade materials in making your home more energy efficient, and it's sustainable too. Here are your options for insulating a green home

20 Bathroom Window Ideas for a Naturally Bright Space
By Hugh Metcalf published
These bathroom window ideas will ensure that your bathroom is flooded with natural light, while balancing this space's need for privacy

Tadelakt: What you Need to Know About Moroccan Plaster
By Hugh Metcalf published
Tadelakt is a lime-based plaster finished to form a durable, waterproof surface with a distinctive appearance. Find out more about its uses with this handy guide

Clay Plaster: Pros, Cons and Where to Use it
By Hugh Metcalf published
Clay plaster not only looks beautiful, but it has some brilliant eco-credentials for a more sustainable, healthier home too. Here's what you need to know

16 Fireplace Alcove Ideas to Make use of Awkward Spaces
By Hugh Metcalf published
Try these fireplace alcove ideas to turn small nooks into useful storage and practical spaces

Black Friday Lighting Deals 2021: The Best Lighting Sales to Shop
By Hugh Metcalf last updated
We've rounded up the best Black Friday lighting deals around, with some brands offering up to 70% off over the Black Friday weekend

13 Brick Fireplace Ideas for a Rustic Focal Point
By Hugh Metcalf published
Brick fireplace ideas are a brilliant way to imbue your space with character and texture, whether you're looking for contemporary or classic inspiration

Lighting Low Ceilings: 12 Clever Ideas to Make Your Space Work Better
By Hugh Metcalf published
Need help with lighting low ceilings? Take a look at these 12 brilliant ideas and our expert advice for the best way of tackling this challenge

Terraced House Loft Conversions: 12 Things to Consider Before you Begin
By Hugh Metcalf published
Considering a terraced house loft conversion to expand your home’s space? Here’s what you need to think about before you start your project

17 Grey Bathroom Ideas: How to use This Versatile Colour in Your Scheme
By Hugh Metcalf published
With the right grey bathroom ideas to inspire you, you can create a sophisticated scheme that's effortlessly timeless

Black Friday Bathroom Deals 2021: The Best Sales for Baths, Basins and More
By Hugh Metcalf published
We've rounded up the best Black Friday bathroom deals into one place so you can shop bathtubs, showers, taps, mirrors and more at up to 70% off

10 Painted Stairs Ideas for a Staircase Renovation
By Hugh Metcalf published
These painted stairs ideas are perfect for giving a tired staircase a new lease of life — from simple painting makeovers to intricate statement staircases

Tools for Laminate Flooring: What You Need and Where to Get Them
By Hugh Metcalf published
What are the right tools for laminate flooring? Here's the lowdown on what you need for a DIY installation

10 Mantelpiece Ideas, From Material Inspiration to Styling Tips
By Hugh Metcalf published
These mantelpiece ideas will perfectly frame an open fire or wood burning stove, ensuring your fireplace is the focal point of the room

14 Kitchen Window Ideas for the Picture Perfect Space
By Hugh Metcalf published
These kitchen window ideas, from types of window to treatments for your space, will ensure you have the best possible view from the heart of your home
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