Latest articles by Sarah Harley
Move over kitchen pantry – a bantry is the new feature I want in my kitchen
From hidden cocktail stations to beautifully organised cabinetry, these bantry ideas show why this hybrid kitchen solution is taking off fast
Should you rethink No Mow May? Experts reveal the hidden downsides (and how to avoid them)
Although No Mow May is a great way to invite flora and fauna into your garden, should we be approaching it in a different way to make sure it's beneficial?
Could toxic giant hogweed be hiding in your garden? Here's how to identify it and get rid of it safely
Knowing how to get rid of giant hogweed is important for a safer garden – we've got all the tips you need
From cobbled country paths to sleek and stylish slabs, these 9 front path ideas won't fail to guide you home
With front paths the main route in and out of your home, we've rounded up ideas that combine practicality with pleasing finishes to create paths with purpose
Thinking about a timber frame extension? From construction methods and costs through to final finishes, here's what to consider
Timber frame extensions can be built in a number of different ways. We break down what you need to weigh up when extending your home in this way
The paper and cardboard recycling rules I've been getting wrong without realising – and you might be breaking them too
I thought the recycling paper and cardboard rules were relatively simple, but there are still guidelines to be followed and here's why
Is a garage conversion easier than adding an extension? Everything you need to know about turning your garage into living space
Could an empty or unused garage provide you with the extra room you need? Our experts are on hand to explain just what's involved in a garage conversion
We reveal the surprising places you might find asbestos in your home renovation — and what you can do about it
Spotting asbestos when renovating isn't always obvious. While surveys can reveal some locations, here's where else could be a risk factor in older properties
8 facts about soapstone, and why it could be the lesser-known kitchen worktop finish you didn't know you needed
Lesser known than other materials such as granite or marble, soapstone is a worthy contender for kitchen worktops and other surface finishes, as experts explain
Which type of foundation system is right for your home, and your soil? Build experts explain your options
Strong foundations are integral to a stable build, but with soil, architectural design and cost all playing a role, we explore the types available
Installing an air source heat pump — what to expect and why it needs a professional
If you're considering an air source heat pump as part of a new build or renovation, here's what the experts say you can expect when installing one
Hardware can be the unforgotten hero of an interior scheme. I reveal my favourite places to shop and share expert advice on selecting yours
Selecting hardware for your home may seem like one of the last jobs on your list, but it shouldn't be. Here's how to get it right and where to find inspiration
My bedroom and home office need to break-up as I'm losing sleep. Here's what I'm considering as a temporary solution to keep the peace
My bedroom is big enough to work from, but having my desk and bed in the same space is proving too disruptive. Could these temporary fixes be the solution?
Is there really any way to get rid of the smell of paint? We lift the lid on paint smell hacks to reveal what works and what doesn't
Love your newly decorated walls but not the accompanying eau-de-paint? We explore ways to get rid of paint smells to see if there is any real solution
Why I don't think the new Simpler Recycling rules are unfair. Isn't it time we did more?
I've been recycling under Simpler Recycling guidelines for a while and don't understand the fuss. The new rules aren't perfect, but it's better than nothing
I reviewed the Aranet4 HOME monitor to see if the air quality in my home was cause for concern. I learnt more than I thought I would
Living on a busy high street and in a listed building with single glazing makes me question the air inside our home. Would this air monitor ease my concerns?
How to navigate VAT concessions for conversions when creating a new home
Claiming back VAT on your conversion could recoup you some of your build costs, but only if you know how. Build expert, Michael Holmes explores the rules
Why using the 'peek-a-boo' paint trend is as easy as child's play — when you know how
Looking for a way to add joy to your home? The 'peek-a-boo' paint trend could be all you need to inject some fun, personality and style to any room
Could you be using your shutters incorrectly? The surprising technique I use to save me money in winter and keep me cool in summer
Could you be using your shutters incorrectly? This simple tip has helped reduce my energy bills and keep out the heat in the summer. And best of all, it's free
I discovered the 60:30:10 rule over 20 years ago — here's why I'm still following its principles today
Choosing an interior design or paint scheme can be tricky, which is why I've always followed the 60:30:10 principles in my homes. Here's how to use it in yours
Could this small piece of plastic revolutionise flat pack furniture? Here's what I discovered when I tried it for the first time
Partially built flat pack sounded like the perfect solution to my budget and time constraints, but was this new plastic fixing a help or a hindrance?
I thought an L-shaped bath would be perfect for a family bathroom — but these 3 mistakes turned my wet zone into a stress zone
Popular for their roomy style, I thought an L-shaped bath would be a great way of combing an essential bath with a roomier shower. Here's how I got it wrong
Want to perfect your home lighting? Experts share a six-step guide
Everything you need to nail your home's lighting design – from colour temperature and switches to style and placement
