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

The 6 best integrated dishwashers that make light work of washing up
By Amy Reeves, Natasha Brinsmead, Steve Jenkins, Joseph Mullane Last updated
Take the hassle out of washing up with one of the best integrated dishwashers, with options from Miele, Bosch, Beko and more

Slash the time it takes to clean your kitchen in half with these 9 simple upgrades
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
These design decisions will help shrink your new kitchen cleaning routine and give you back your spare time

Central heating season is fast approaching – make sure your system is in tip-top condition with our autumn heating checklist
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
The essential six-step autumn central heating checklist experts say you should carry out now, before the arrival of colder weather

Not all electrical sockets are the same – here’s how to choose the right one to make everyday life so much easier
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Electrical sockets are easy to overlook, but they can make a surprising difference to how practical and convenient your home feels. Experts explain the different types and what to consider before choosing yours

Step aside boring rectangular openings – circular windows are having a moment and I'm all for it
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Circular windows are the designers' choice for adding interest, fun and some seriously eye-catching views. Here's how to use them in your project

Is colour-matched paint ever as good as the 'real thing' – or are you better off paying extra for the shade you really want? Here's my verdict
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Colour-matched paint can be a cheaper way to get the look you want, but is it really as good? We ask the experts to settle the debate

My dog hates underfloor heating, but I really want it in our extension – is there a way to keep everyone happy?
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
If your canine companion is anything like mine, underfloor heating is the enemy, while our late cat seemed to adore it – how can you please both?

16 double-height spaces guaranteed to make you look twice
By Sarah Harley Last updated
Double-height spaces are an architectural feature designed to make you stop and stare. From renovations to new builds here's what you could create

How many electrical sockets should you have in each room? Whatever you might think – always add more
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
If you're designing your electrics, choosing how many sockets you need, and where they go can't be a last minute decision. Planning and thinking ahead is a must

Is your your wooden flooring lifting, carpet looking a little threadbare or your LVT fading fast? These 7 things could be damaging your floors
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Experts explain how to spot, prevent and fix flooring damage to keep your floors in pristine condition for longer

I'm a poor sleeper and struggle to switch off, so I asked the experts which master bedroom colour schemes could help me relax
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
How to devise the perfect master bedroom colour scheme for a restful night's sleep

North-facing rooms don't have to feel gloomy and cold – in fact, they can be the exact opposite with the right approach
By Natasha Brinsmead Published
Designers explain how to approach the design of a north-facing room to help you transform dark and dingy into light and airy

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
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