
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

Bathroom renovation costs — how much to budget for a makeover
By Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
As well as calculating the costs of new items such as sinks and showers, budgeting for bathroom renovation costs involves thinking of the bigger picture. Here's what you need to consider

Living rooms with large windows are wonderful to spend time in — but they do need a considered approach
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Be inspired by our collection of living rooms with large windows, all of which showcase how to style this kind of space

44 modern staircase ideas to elevate your interior
By Amy Reeves, Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
Modern staircase ideas can transform a simple set of steps into an integral part of your interior design. Here's how to take your home to the next level

Should you remove or cover over Artex ceilings and why can they be a cause for concern?
By Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
Not sure how to tackle your Artex ceilings? Find out the best way to deal with this dated design decor

Want your extension and garden to work in harmony? Here's what the experts advise
By Natasha Brinsmead published
The design of your extension needs to take into account your garden and vice versa if you want the two to work together – as our expert guide explains

26 conservatory ideas to add space and improve your outdoor connection
By Amy Reeves, Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
Choose your conservatory ideas well and you can turn your spare outdoor space into a comfortable, stylish and practical room you can use all-year-round

Desperate for somewhere to work from home undisturbed? A loft conversion office could be just what you need
By Natasha Brinsmead published
8 tips from the experts on designing the perfect loft conversion office that leaves you feeling productive and energised

Garden experts reveal how to get rid of moss in lawns – with methods to treat it naturally and chemically
By Teresa Conway last updated
Wondering how to get rid of moss in lawns? We're here with some expert advice on the best ways of eliminating and preventing this pesky problem

Are you following these 6 golden rules for the perfect living room design?
By Sarah Harley, Natasha Brinsmead last updated
Your living room design needs to be comfortable, practical and stylish. But what are the main areas to focus on to create a warm and welcoming space? We breakdown the process so you can get it right

Find out how a loft conversion balcony could elevate your new space to the next level
By Natasha Brinsmead published
A beginner's guide guide to loft conversion balconies, including what to expect when it comes to planning permission

14 garage conversion ideas that turn an empty space into everything you can dream of — including a home
By Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
If your garage is unloved or under-utilised, garage conversion ideas are a great option. From new homes to stylish spare rooms we've rounded up some of the best

Flooring experts lay down their advice on the best carpet for living rooms
By Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
Choosing the best carpet for living rooms is about finding the best solution that not only looks great, but will also withstand the rigours of daily life

Maximising light when adding a kitchen extension should be a priority — here's how to create a bright, airy space
By Natasha Brinsmead published
How to build a kitchen extension that is full of natural light and won't leave existing spaces in the dark

26 beautiful porch ideas for an unforgettable entrance
By Natasha Brinsmead, Sarah Harley last updated
The best porch ideas not only influence your home's appearance, but also provide shelter, storage and protect the rest of your home from the elements

Thought you wouldn't need a structural engineer for your extension? You might need to reconsider
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Wondering whether you need a structural engineer for your extension project? Our guide explains

25 wall panelling ideas to add a new dimension to your interiors
By Sarah Harley, Natasha Brinsmead, Hugh Metcalf last updated
From bedrooms to bathrooms, living rooms to hallways, wall panelling ideas can transform a humble wall into a focal point. Here's 25 ideas to inspire you

Which kitchen layout should I choose for my project? Popular designs explained
By Natasha Brinsmead published
The most popular types of kitchen layouts explained to help you choose the best option for your space

Think you don't have the right kind of attic for a loft conversion? The key could lie in raising the roof
By Natasha Brinsmead published
Could a roof lift conversion help you add the space you need?

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
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