Rob Keal
Rob Keal is the Content Editor at Homebuilding & Renovating. With a background in content marketing, he began his career back in 2016 as a freelancer, before honing his craft at various digital marketing agencies. Looking to specialise in DIY and homes, he joined the team in February 2022.
Renovation has been part of his life since he was nine years old, when his parents bought a medieval cottage and completely revived it, introducing him to kitchen remodels, loft conversions, landscape gardening, and much more besides along the way. A bedroom extension and patio refurbishment are among his next planned projects. He is also passionate about interior design and landscape gardening.
Latest articles by Rob Keal

Wood decking vs composite: Which should you choose for your next garden project?
By Rob Keal last updated
Choosing between wood decking vs composite will impact the look, cost and maintenance of your decking. Our guide explores the pros and cons to help you decide

Lucy Willcox latest star to join amazing National Homebuilding & Renovating Show line-up
By Rob Keal, Alison Wall, Joseph Mullane last updated
The self build event of the year is back for March 2025! Find inspiration, advice, and all the suppliers you need under one roof at the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show

Why getting your kitchen island sizes spot on is essential for a remodel
By Rob Keal last updated
Kitchen island sizes will vary depending on available space. Our guide shows you what to look out for when determining if your kitchen can accommodate an island

Long Garden Ideas: 16 Tips for Landscaping a Spacious Plot
By Rob Keal published
Long garden ideas should be well balanced and not have any unused or uncultivated areas. Our 16 ways to landscape an extensive outdoor space can help with this

Narrow Garden Ideas: 14 Ways to Maximise Space
By Rob Keal published
Narrow garden ideas are all about maximising available area while preserving style. Get the most out of your compact plot with our 14 design suggestions

Narrow Kitchen Ideas: 10 Ways to Maximise Space and Storage
By Rob Keal published
Great narrow kitchen ideas can help add style and practicality to any area where space is at a premium. Improve your kitchen’s appeal with these 10 design tips

Four in 10 Struggled to Pay Energy Bills Before Price Hike
By Rob Keal published
As most UK homes are hit by rising bills, new data suggests that 40% of households were struggling to pay before the latest price cap increase

Fence Lighting Ideas: 8 Ways to Create a Glowing Border
By Rob Keal published
Fence lighting ideas can help highlight your garden’s boundaries and add security — find out how with our eight handy tips

Composite Decking Ideas: 14 Ways to Raise Your Outdoor Space
By Rob Keal published
Composite decking ideas add interest and functionality to a garden, as well as being low-maintenance. Get inspired for your deck project with our 14 design tips

Patio Planting Ideas: 15 Ways to Spruce Up Your Outdoor Area
By Rob Keal published
Patio planting ideas add another dimension to your garden and help enhance outdoor seating areas. Start cultivating a vibrant patio with our 15 suggestions

House Surveys: Types, Costs, and How to Choose the Right One
By Rob Keal published
House surveys can reveal a lot about a property’s condition. We explore the different types of house surveys, the costs, and how to choose between them

Patio Lighting Ideas: 18 Ways to Illuminate Your Garden Area
By Rob Keal published
Patio lighting ideas can help you achieve a bright, welcoming outdoor space. Get inspiration for how to light up your patio with our 18 illuminating suggestions

Garden Screening Ideas: 14 Solutions for Privacy and Shade
By Rob Keal published
Garden screening ideas can help add a sense of peaceful seclusion and privacy to your garden. Screen off your outdoor space with these suggestions

UK Homes Struggling to Go Green Amid Energy Crisis
By Rob Keal published
Homeowners are reportedly struggling to install heat pumps and solar panels due to high prices and long delays

12 Conservatory Blind Ideas for Optimal Insulation and Shade
By Rob Keal published
Conservatory blind ideas can help ensure year-round comfort, while also maintaining privacy. Discover our 12 design suggestions to complement your conservatory

Front Door Furniture Ideas: 11 Extras for Your Home Entrance
By Rob Keal published
The right front door furniture ideas help finish any entrance — see our 11 hardware suggestions for your home

Flickering Lights in the House: Common Causes and Fixes
By Rob Keal published
Flickering lights in the house can be due to any number of issues, some very serious indeed. Our guide reveals eight common causes and how to resolve them

Homebuyers Survey: Does Your New Property Need One?
By Rob Keal published
A homebuyers survey can help shed light on the condition of your potential new home. Learn about inspection processes, costs and more with our guide
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