Seán O'Connell
Seán is an experienced writer with a specialism in homes journalism. He was formerly Chirf Sub of Elle Decoration & Practical Parenting, then Associate Editor of 25 Beautiful Homes magazine. Since 2016, he has been a freelance writer and editor specialising in interiors magazines inc. Living Etc, Homes & Gardens, 25 Beautiful Homes and Homebuilding & Renovating.
Latest articles by Seán O'Connell

‘We have future-proofed every part of our house’ – step inside this couple’s oak frame forever home that blends character with contemporary design
By Seán O'Connell published
Knowing this was going to be their lifetime home, Dawn and Graham Hillier put heart and soul into every aspect of their new-build project

'This house has repaid all our renovation efforts' – explore how a 1930s house has been cleverly transformed into a contemporary home packed with energy-saving features
By Seán O'Connell published
When the owners needed more light and space, the solution was a light-filled extension that's brimming with energy-efficient ideas

Which home is your favourite? Homebuilding & Renovating Awards 2025 shortlist revealed
By Teresa Conway, Seán O'Connell last updated
In partnership with The Times and The Sunday Times, our coveted Homebuilding & Renovating Awards 2025 are now underway. Here's all the information you need

'We've massively reduced our energy bills' – the incredible transformation of a drab 1980s house into an ultra-modern eco family home
By Seán O'Connell published
Solar panels, a ground source heat pump, triple-glazed windows and rainwater harvesting are just a few of the energy-saving features of this eco home

How first-time homebuilders found a winning formula and created their lifelong dream home
By Seán O'Connell published
According to this couple, good organisation, excellent teamwork and 'treats' were the magic ingredients of their Warwickshire self-build

A home for life — how this couple created their dream home on a plot in the Cotswolds
By Seán O'Connell published
Inspired by a visit to the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, Ian and Louise embarked on the journey of building their dream oak frame home

Could sliding patio doors be the smooth, sleek glazing option you need for your home extension or renovation?
By Seán O'Connell last updated
Offering abundant light, slender sightlines and ease of use, it’s not surprising sliding patio doors are a firm favourite. Here's how to choose the right ones

'This contemporary, low-energy self-build is exemplary' – discover why the judges love this award-winning home that's replaced a dated 1980s property
By Seán O'Connell published
Built from structural insulated panels, this jewel of a self-build is a striking addition to the street

How this home was built without a heating system — and why it won our Home of the Year 2023
By Seán O'Connell published
It may look like a series of simple cubes but Duncan and Anaya Bush’s self build during the pandemic has every angle covered – from sustainable design to thoughtful landscaping
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