Latest articles by Hugh Metcalf
14 Fireplace Hearth Ideas: Inspiration for Styles, Materials and More
These fireplace hearth ideas not only perfectly frame your open fire or stove, but also help protect your floor from damage
Built-in Desk Ideas: 11 Creative Designs for a Home Office
The right built-in desk ideas will help you make the most of every last inch in your home office. Here's 11 clever ways to incorporate one in your space
Cool Light vs Warm Light: Which Should I Choose?
We take a look at the differences between cool light vs warm light and how to plot out light colour temperature for the different rooms in your home
5 Incredible Homes that Beat Tough Countryside Planning Rules
Building under Paragraph 80, sometimes called the Countryside Clause, is notoriously tricky, but these projects passed planning, each resulting in an amazing rural home
Self Build Nightmares: 8 Scary Scenarios and How to Avoid Them
Trying to prevent your self build becoming a horror story? Take heed of this advice to ensure your project has a fairy tale ending instead
Natural Building Materials: What are Your Choices for an Eco Home?
Choosing natural building materials for your project can improve your home's eco credentials and create a healthy environment. Here's what you need to know
Tiny Houses: What You Need to Know About Living in a Micro Home
Living in so-called 'tiny houses' is a phenomenon about more than just the size of your build. We explore the key considerations
Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles: What are the Differences?
Found yourself weighing up porcelain vs ceramic tiles for your kitchen or bathroom? We break down the differences in styles, applications and more
6 Narrow, Infill Houses That are Surprisingly Spacious
One thing you might not expect from these narrow homes, each infilling a small plot in an urban area, is the decidedly spacious feel once you get beyond the façade
Open Fire Vs Log Burner: Which is Better for Your Fireplace?
Not sure where you fall on the 'open fire vs log burner' debate? We take a look at what you need to know about both options so you can make the right choice for your home
Laminate Vs Vinyl: What Flooring is Best for My Room?
Can't decide between laminate vs vinyl for the flooring in your project? We breakdown the differences between the two to help you pick the right option for you
Best Angle Grinder: 5 Top Buys for Your Tool Shed
Wondering what the best angle grinder is for your DIY project? Here's our pick of 5 of the best you can buy right now
Planning a Kitchen: Practical Tips for Designing Your New Space
When it comes to planning a kitchen, do your homework and enter the process prepared. Here are our top tips for ensuring your project is a success
Eco Flooring: How to Make a Sustainable Choice for Your Home
Choosing an eco flooring is high on the agenda for the modern green homes enthusiast. Discover which choices have the lowest impact on the environment with our guide
6 Ways to Add an Extra Bedroom Without Extending
Adding a bedroom to your home may prove a cost-effective way to grow your home to meet your family's needs. Here's how you can do so without building an extension
Natural Insulation: What Types are Available?
Natural insulation ensures your home's green credentials remain in tact while improving its thermal efficiency. These are the key types you need to know
6 Clever Self Builders That Built Flood-Resilient Homes
Working with brilliant architects, these homeowners created homes on flood-prone plots, designed to withstand rising waters
Deathwatch Beetle: How to Spot and Treat an Infestation
Deathwatch beetle are a much-feared pest when found in the home, and for good reason. Discover the tell-tale signs of infestation and the best ways to treat it
6 Inspiring Coastal Houses With Incredible Sea Views
Coastal houses are in high demand, and with self builds and renovations like these six outstanding examples, it's not hard to see why
7 Ways to Stay on Good Terms With Your Neighbours During a Build
Major building works can cause a strain on the relationship with your neighbours. Here’s how to keep them from the start to the end of your project
Hydrogen Strategy: Here’s How it Could Affect Homeowners
The government’s Hydrogen Strategy plans for up to 35% of the UK’s energy consumption to come from hydrogen by 2035
Painted Kitchen Ideas: 9 Schemes That Make the Most of Colour
These brilliant painted kitchen ideas all make use of colour in clever and creative ways to make your kitchen cabinetry the star of your space
Bespoke Kitchens: A Guide to Completely Custom Designs
A bespoke kitchen is made to fit your room perfectly and allow for a more personalised design. Here's what you need to know about them
