
Sarah Harley
Sarah has been an avid lover of all things homes and interiors since she started redecorating her bedroom as a teenager. Since then she has worked in a number of different roles from copywriting, PR, events management and photography to interior design and home staging. With her two passions being the written word and the joys of a beautifully-designed home, she eventually found her way to writing about interiors and has never looked back. When it comes to her personal building and renovations experience, viewers saw her don a pink hard hat on Grand Designs to project manage the renovation of a Grade II listed folly with the addition of a sweeping modern extension. Prior to this, as well as undertaking smaller interior projects, she renovated and extended a cottage in Kent and also worked for clients, redesigning a central London gym and making improvements to properties that needed to be sold . She admits she has never actually left a property she has lived in untouched, and with over 20 moves to her name, it’s fair to say that she knows lots of tricks for turning a house into a home. Although she still dreams of living in a contemporary self-build somewhere by the sea, she’s decided to leave the packing boxes in storage for now. In the meantime, she continues to fill her Pinterest boards with ideas and inspiration….just in case.
Latest articles by Sarah Harley

Garden screening doesn't have to mean a tall fence – these 17 ideas offer a more stylish way to create privacy
By Rob Keal Last updated
Our garden screening ideas are perfect for concealing parts of your plot, providing shelter and keeping out prying eyes

Considering solar panels? Make sure you read this expert-led guide first to help you decide
By David Hilton Last updated
Solar panels could help you reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint, but what does having them involve? Energy expert David Hilton explains

Nearly a quarter of homeowners at risk of electrical problems warns industry survey
By Sarah Harley Published
From failing to get the recommended inspections to ignoring faults, it seems many of us are rolling the dice when it comes to our home's electrical systems

The spring-cleaning job many of us forget – and why doing it now could help prevent radiator problems this autumn
By Sarah Harley Published
Your radiators may be switched off for now, but giving them attention during warmer months could help you save money and avoid frustrating cold-weather breakdowns

Garden saunas are the outdoor upgrade everyone wants – and experts say they’re more achievable than you might think
By Sarah Harley Published
With the wellness trend showing no signs of abating, we explore the option of adding a garden sauna to your outdoor space

Could this window dressing secret be the ultimate trick for keeping your home cool in a heatwave?
By Sarah Harley Published
Is using several layers of window coverings the trick to preventing overheating in your home? We explore the concept of window stacking

Home saunas are the Nordic wellness trend we can't get enough of – but there’s lots to consider before installing one
By Sarah Harley Published
From finding the right location to understanding maintenance and ventilation, this is what’s really involved when adding an indoor sauna to your self build, renovation or extension

6 chef-approved kitchen design rules that will elevate a normal domestic kitchen into the professional realm
By Sarah Harley Published
If you love to cook, introducing these key features into your kitchen design could give you a space that's functional, practical and still seriously stylish

'Think of black like a sophisticated eyeliner that defines the space' – tips on using this bold colour like an interior designer
By Sarah Harley Published
If you're feeling bold enough to brave black in your interior design scheme, make sure you follow this expert advice before you begin

The ‘high-low’ decorating mindset designers swear by – it could save your budget without sacrificing the finished look
By Sarah Harley Published
Do interiors that look good always have to blow your budget? Experts reveal where to spend, where to save and how to make your home look more expensive than it is

Ground source heat pumps – what to know if you're considering this low-carbon heat source for your home
By Tim Pullen, Sarah Harley Last updated
As a fossil fuel alternative, ground source heat pumps offer a long-term energy efficient option for heating your home. But, what does having one involve?

Move over kitchen pantry – a bantry is the new feature I want in my kitchen
By Sarah Harley Published
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)
By Sarah Harley Published
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
By Holly Crossley Published
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
By Sarah Harley Published
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
By Mike Cruickshank Last updated
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
By Sarah Harley Published
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
By Sarah Harley Last updated
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
By Sarah Harley Published
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
By Sarah Harley Published
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
By Michael Holmes Last updated
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
By David Hilton Last updated
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
By Sarah Harley Published
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
By Sarah Harley Published
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
By Sarah Harley Published
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
Bring your dream home to life with expert advice, how to guides and design inspiration. Sign up for our newsletter and get two free tickets to a Homebuilding & Renovating Show near you.