
Natasha Brinsmead
Natasha has been writing about all aspects of renovating, building and extending for over 20 years, as well as making the odd radio and TV appearance to talk about self build. As well as enjoying the hands-on side of the building process, Natasha also has a love of interior design and enjoys nothing more than hours spent researching the latest trends to hit the scene.
An interest and passion for home design has been something in Natasha's life from an early age, growing up with an architect as a Dad and moving from project to project, including several self builds which she was lucky enough to take a hand in 'designing' even at the tender age of eight thanks to her parent's insistence that all the homes they lived in should have the input of the whole family.
Over the years Natasha has carried out several of her own projects. Her husband and her started married life in a cloud of building dust, renovating and carrying out a side extension to an unloved Victorian terrace. She is currently living in the rural Edwardian cottage she renovated and extended on a largely DIY basis, living on site for the duration of the project with two young children — who loved getting stuck into much of the demolition work but didn't so much love the freezing cold conditions and concrete floors they had to put up with for some time.
While Natasha loves the character and history that goes hand-in-hand with renovation projects, she is now looking for her next project with an open mind to creating something more modern and future proof. However, finding the right thing is proving to be far harder than she thought it would be — watch this space...
Latest articles by Natasha Brinsmead

Thinking of installing a resin driveway? We reveal the pros and cons before you take the plunge
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Our expert-led guide explains everything you need to know before going ahead with your resin driveway plans

Some colours work better than others in a home office – and, according to the experts, this shade is best of all
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Discover which home office colours will help ensure going to work is a pleasure, not a chore

I nearly overlooked these driveway Building Regulations before turning my front garden into a drive – don't make the same mistake
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
If you're planning a new driveway or making changes to an existing one, these are the Building Regulations and requirements you should understand before work begins

About to upgrade your windows and doors? Here's why experts say the type of glass you choose matters just as much as the frames
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
From reducing heat loss to cutting outside noise, here's what you need to know about specifying the right type of glazing for your home – even if you live in a draughty old house

Craving extra light, fresh air and envy-inducing views? Here's why a Juliet balcony might just be the way forward
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Far from being just an architectural feature, Juliet balconies come with so many other benefits

Leaky conservatory roof? The 6 most common causes and how to fix them
By Natasha Brinsmead Last updated
From cracked roof panels to damaged vents, we'll help you get to the bottom of your conservatory problem and find the best repair method

How to perfect your living room layout – 15 ideas for the ultimate relaxation hub
By Natasha Brinsmead Last updated
Looking to switch up your living room layout? We've found the best ideas to upgrade your space, no matter the style, shape, or size

Why I'm set on terrazzo flooring for my renovation — practical, eye-catching and with a nod to the past, it has so much going for it
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Terrazzo flooring has been on my moodboard for a while so I asked experts to explain the types, pros, cons and costs to help me avoid any purchasing mistakes

I love alfresco dining but my patio setup is letting the experience down – I asked the experts what I need to change to get the perfect setting
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
We reveal the 7 key elements you need to get right when creating the perfect outdoor dining experience – no matter how much space you have to spare

I tried solar control film on my south-facing bedroom windows and couldn't believe how much cooler it was at night
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Fed up with feeling hot and sticky during these heatwaves, I tried out solar control window film – and was pleasantly surprised by the results

How do you clean a roof lantern without calling in the professionals? I really want one but am worried it'll always look dirty
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Experts reveal the secrets behind keeping a roof lantern sparkling clean yourself so you don't always have to pay for a window cleaner

Missing your weekly Rivals fix? Designers reveal the 1980s interior design trends to embrace today – plus the looks that should stay in the past
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Discover the key pieces and styling tricks that make this nostalgic 1980s trend feel effortlessly modern

The 8 bedroom design mistakes experts say can ruin your space – and your sleep
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
From furniture choices to colour selection, these eight common bedroom design mistakes could mean your dream space becomes a bit of a nightmare

Confused about which type of garden office will best suit your needs and budget? These 6 options should help streamline the process
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
We take a look at the main garden office options and explain their pros, cons and costs so you can make an executive decision

Slim Shaker kitchens — the subtle but effective upgrade bringing a classic design into modern homes
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Thought Shaker kitchens were only for traditional schemes? It might be time for a rethink. This popular cabinet door design has had a makeover – and we love it

Your home office design mistakes could be making every day at work feel harder – here are the biggest ones you should fix right now
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
From poor desk placement to impractical lighting, these errors could be draining your comfort, mood and motivation on a daily basis

Has a leasehold property caught your eye? Before you take the plunge, read our need-to-know guide
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Buying a leasehold property is different to a freehold one, but why, is it a good idea and what are the important things to know? Experts explain all

I'd love a roof lantern in my new kitchen but am really worried it'll feel like a greenhouse — I asked the experts how to prevent overheating
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
A roof lantern lets in sunlight and therefore heat, so how can you install one that doesn't result in uncomfortably hot spaces? Experts share their top tips

I'm thinking about swapping carpet for wooden flooring in our bedrooms – but is it a terrible idea?
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Does using wooden flooring upstairs mean downstairs will become unbearably noisy, or are there ways of reducing the sound?

Experts reveal the clever ways they use glazing to frame a view — even when there wasn't really one to work with
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
According to design experts, it's time we all started getting more imaginative with windows and here's how

Beautiful and practical – 8 sloping driveway ideas that prove dealing with a steep approach doesn't mean sacrificing kerb appeal
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
If you're wondering how to deal with a driveway that isn't flat, let our collection of some of the best sloping driveway ideas around inspire you

French doors have had a glow-up — 6 reasons why they should be back on your home reno radar
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Move over sliding and bifold patio doors, French doors which seemed to take a back seat for a while, are well and truly back in vogue

Looking for a kitchen that can handle family life? These designer-approved spaces show exactly how it's done
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Discover the smart design choices that help hardworking family kitchens stay organised, welcoming and chic

I love the thought of air conditioning but am not a fan of how it looks — is there ever a way to blend it into your interiors?
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
We asked the experts whether there is a way of making air conditioning look more attractive, or if a big white box is the best you can hope for?

Shoes on or off? Is asking guests to take their shoes off at the front door common sense — or just plain rude?
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Are you a strict 'no shoes' household or do you take a more relaxed view towards guests' footwear? With the help of experts, we explore both sides of the debate
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