
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

How to put in a best and final offer that secures you the house of your dreams
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Some properties are sold by best and final offer – if this is the case with the house you want to buy, our guide takes you through everything you need to know

Think the only kitchen island shapes worth considering are rectangles or squares? It might be time to reconsider
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Kitchen island shapes have a huge effect on the way a kitchen looks and performs, so take time to explore all your options with our handy guide

These 30 house extension ideas are a masterclass in how to successfully add space, light and value
By Michael Holmes last updated
Our collection of brilliant house extension ideas will provide you with all the inspiration you need to transform how you use your home and unleash its potential

The experts weigh in on open plan vs broken plan kitchen extensions — is one better than the other?
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Torn between open plan vs broken plan kitchen extensions? Our guide will help you decide

I've renovated four bathrooms – and these are the mistakes I won't make again
By Natasha Brinsmead published
I'm sharing the bathroom renovation mistakes I still regret so you can avoid making the same blunders

We asked an interior design expert how to remodel a kitchen. Here's what she recommends to get the best results
By Sarah Harley, Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Knowing how to remodel a kitchen isn't just as simple as replacing old with new. A good kitchen remodel will reimagine your space and sometimes even relocate it

What causes condensation outside windows? How to stop it happening
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
What causes condensation outside windows? We take a look at why this common issue comes about and what you can do to prevent it from happening

Timber, sustainability and well-being — how a contemporary home will look in 2025
By Sarah Harley, Natasha Brinsmead published
We took at look at our predictions for contemporary homes in 2024 and asked a range of experts what will change in 2025 and what can we expect to see more of?

How to design a dining room to suit all kinds of occasions — not just formal dinners
By Natasha Brinsmead published
How to design a dining room is about far more than choosing a table and chairs – as our guide explains

How do you choose loft conversion flooring that looks great and performs well?
By Natasha Brinsmead published
The right loft conversion flooring can make all the difference to the look and comfort levels of this space, as well as the impact it has on the rest of the house

How to stop condensation in your home — plus all the causes explained
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Wondering how to stop condensation on your windows, walls and elsewhere in the home? We explain what causes this issue and explain how to stop it once and for all

9 cheap and easy DIY methods for draught proofing windows
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Draught proofing windows is an essential job when the temperature drops. Here are the 9 best ways of doing it yourself

6 house extension alternatives to add space without increasing a home's footprint
By Natasha Brinsmead published
The best house extension alternatives will not only make your house bigger, but also increase its value, not to mention changing how you feel about it – we reveal the top six

Budgeting for kitchen installation costs in 2025? Here's what to set aside
By Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
Not sure how much you can expect to pay for kitchen installation costs? Our handy guide breaks down what to factor into your budget, so you can plan ahead

The best radiators for keeping your home warm and cosy this winter
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
The best radiators should not only heat your home efficiently, but they should look great and enhance your interior scheme. Our collection brings together the top designs, no matter what your needs

Self build homes: The ultimate guide to getting started
By Sarah Harley last updated
If you are considering a self build you probably have hundreds of questions that need answering. Our guide is here to give you advice on planning, designing and executing your project

Cutting grass in November — the latest advice for UK lawns this winter
By Teresa Conway, Natasha Brinsmead last updated
If you are looking out of the window wondering when to cut grass in winter we are here to explain all, including when it is best to keep well away from the mower altogether

The best dehumidifiers for condensation, mould, bedrooms and drying laundry
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
The best dehumidifiers help eliminate condensation, prevent damp and mould, dry your laundry and even cut energy bills. Here's our tried and tested favourites

How to insulate a Victorian house to make it feel warm and cosy without sacrificing character
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Understanding how to insulate a Victorian house in a way that won't interfere with its character or structural integrity is key to a home that feels cosy yet performs well. Our expert guide is here to help

Found asbestos in fireplaces in your home? Don't panic – our guide is here to help
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Asbestos in fireplaces is actually not as uncommon as you might think. If you suspect it might be lurking in your fireplace, what should you do? We asked the experts

The best stove fans to maximise the benefits of your log burner
By Natasha Brinsmead, Jack Woodfield last updated
Our round up of the best stove fans will ensure you are getting the most from your stove, whatever its style or size

A guide to prefab extensions — a quick and often easy way to add space to a home
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Considering a prefab extension? This is a great way to add space and value, and can often be carried out in three weeks or less
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