Jo Messenger

Homes journalist

Latest articles by Jo Messenger

A wide angle shot of a downstairs kitchen extension with double-height ceilings and architectural glazing
'The look of disbelief on everyone’s face when they see the space we've created is priceless' – step inside this cleverly extended mid-terrace home

By Jo Messenger Published

Award-winning interiors, double-height spaces and exceptional natural light make this London mid-terrace home a treasure trove of inspiration

Extension
contemporary open plan living space with split level separating dining area from living room
Split level design — could using staggered levels give your home the step up it needs?

By Jo Messenger Published

Adding a split level design feature can help with zoning, natural changes in the level of the land and add a sense of space. Here's how to make it work for you

Garden
modern house with loft conversion with glazed gable end and bi-folding doors on ground floor below
A guide to loft windows: Types and options available

By Jo Messenger Published

Extending upwards is a great way to gain extra space but it's crucial to get your loft windows right to capture views, control the light and prevent overheating

Windows & Doors
the rear exterior of a black timber clad home renovation and extension project. There is an expansive green lawn in the foreground with a black wooden child's playhouse to the left
'We’re proud to say we stuck to our budget' How this couple renovated and extended their 1930s home without overspending

By Jo Messenger Published

This award-winning house renovation transformed a dull 1930s home into a contemporary family home with chic industrial interiors

Renovation
A wide shot of the interior of a kitchen extension. There is an interior courtyard to the right of the shot which can be viewed out of a window. The beams are exposed and there is a female figure standing at the glazed doors looking out to the back garden
'Our hands-on approach saved thousands on our home extension' — how hard work and compromise helped this couple stay within budget

By Jo Messenger Published

Extending upward and outward gave this London terraced house a facelift fit for 21st-century living

Extension
A self build home with small weaving studio built next to it clad in the same dark timber
'Building my own eco house allowed me to combine my home and work space' – take a tour of this striking Passivhaus self-build

By Jo Messenger Published

Built on a tricky sloping site in Yorkshire, this timber-clad home with its adjoining weaving studio is a masterclass in Passivhaus design

House Tours