
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

14 kitchen innovations that are on my kitchen wish-list — and why you should add them to yours
By Sarah Harley, Natasha Brinsmead last updated
If a hi-tech culinary zone is your dream, take a look at the latest kitchen innovations that don't just look good, but also improve how your kitchen performs

When and how to make the first lawn cut of the year according to lawn care experts
By Teresa Conway last updated
We explain how to make the first lawn cut of the year so you don't damage your grass

Understanding how to design an extension can seem daunting — but our expert-led guide is here to simplify things
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Follow these 7 steps to extension design success

What is a power shower? How they are different to other types of showers
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Exactly what is a power shower? Our quick guide explains everything you need to know if you are a little confused by the various terms in the showering world

How to get rid of carpet moths and stop them destroying your home
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Wondering how to get rid of carpet moths? We take a look at how to spot the problem early and what to do if you do discover these cloth-loving creatures in your home

What are the best ways of insulating an extension? Our guide lays out the options
By Natasha Brinsmead published
When looking at the task of insulating an extension, don't only think about the new additional space – consider the existing building too

16 key considerations not to be forgotten when designing a kitchen
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
When designing a kitchen, it can be hard to know where to start. Our step-by-step guide breaks each stage down to help with the key decisions

The 7 bathroom layout mistakes that could totally ruin your enjoyment of this space
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Bathroom experts share the worst bathroom layout mistakes they see

Steer clear of these 14 extension mistakes say the experts if you want to avoid delays, extra costs or even a disaster
By Michael Holmes, Sarah Harley last updated
Planning on extending? Avoid these 14 extension mistakes to ensure your build progresses smoothly and without any major hitches

How much will a kitchen extension cost? Here's how to work out your budget when planning your new space
By Sarah Harley, Natasha Brinsmead, Tim Phillips last updated
Although a number of factors will influence your final kitchen extension costs, our expert guide helps you work out how much to set aside

Are semi-detached loft conversions a good way to add space and value? We investigate
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Everything you should know about semi-detached loft conversions

How much will a new kitchen cost you in 2025?
By Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
New kitchen costs can quickly mount up if you're not prepared. Here's what you can expect to pay if you're planning on investing in a new kitchen in 2025

Your complete guide to renovating a home: Part 1
By Natasha Brinsmead published
This comprehensive guide is here to steer you through the key steps to making your renovation project a success. In part one, our experts provide their top tips for finding and buying the right renovation opportunity — and advise on how to avoid buying a money pit

Which bathroom innovations and smart bathroom ideas can help future proof your washroom? Here's what the experts recommend
By Sarah Harley, Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Whether you're seeking hi-tech smart bathroom ideas or bathroom innovations to add a sense of luxury or longevity, these are the best options say our bathroom experts

Is extending to the front of a house ever a good idea? We look at how to carry out this project successfully
By Natasha Brinsmead published
From planning permission to design, we explain everything you need to know about extending to the front of a house

32 open plan kitchen ideas, tips and designs to create a stylish space
By Amy Reeves, Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Get inspired with these open plan kitchens — with layout ideas, practical tips, stylish storage and the latest design trends

How to soundproof a loft conversion to make sure your new space is a quiet retreat
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Create a peaceful retreat in your loft by ensuring you soundproof it properly with our expert tips

How to build an oak frame home step-by-step, according to the experts
By Teresa Conway last updated
Wondering exactly how to build an oak frame home? Our guide takes you through the process — from start to finish

Do you know where to put a kitchen island in a kitchen extension?
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Do you know where to put a kitchen island in a kitchen extension? If not, don't worry. We asked the experts for their advice on how to find the best spot

Why toilet dimensions matter when designing your dream bathroom
By Natasha Brinsmead last updated
We take a look at the recommended toilet dimensions so that you can plan a bathroom or cloakroom that is not only stylish, but also practical

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
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