Seán O'Connell

Freelance contributor

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

A before and after shot of a 1980s detached home that has been newly renovated

'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

House Tours
A large two storey timber frame home with field and sheep out in front

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

Self Build
The rear exterior of an oak frame self build with timber and brick cladding

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

Self Build
large brick house with modern extension added including large sliding patio doors

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

Windows & Doors
View of a self build with a gravel driveway. It is a detached home with double pitched roof

'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

Self Build
A modern home with a timber clad porch

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

Self Build
A tiny home with a large glazed window, timber cladding and shrubbery

Father and son build tiny eco home around an apple tree in their garden — that uses MVHR rather than heating

By Seán O'Connell published

Discover how a father-and-son duo built an eco tiny home in their back garden, requiring no heating and boasting gorgeous budget interiors throughout

Garden
black barn with timber extension to rear

4 design ideas to steal from this award-winning extended barn conversion

By Seán O'Connell published

This stylish and efficient barn conversion and extension is filled with clever details and designs that makes the spaces shine — take a tour of this stunning home

Conversion