Ideal Home

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• Mrs Hinch's Tesco homeware range will take your grey obsession to the next level
• Primark is back! And extending its opening hours by two hours this week
• Best fire pits 2021: our favourite chimineas and gas fire pits
• Homebase is launching mini garden centres at Next stores this week
• Cottage garden ideas – create a charming country-style garden in any setting
• Best security camera – the top cameras for better home security
• Too many bank transfers can stop you getting a mortgage

Mrs Hinch's Tesco homeware range will take your grey obsession to the next level Posted: 12 Apr 2021 06:57 AM PDT Fans of Sophie Hinchliffe, aka Mrs Hinch, will be excited to hear that her first-ever homeware range is available online and in Tesco stores. Related: 32 grey living room ideas – from pale hues to deep charcoals for creating gorgeous spaces Sophie Hinchcliffe sprung to fame as a cleanfluencer on Instagram, showing us all how to get our homes looking our best with her clever hacks. We’ll be the first to admit we watch her stories half for the cleaning tips and half to admire the stars stunning grey home. Well now you can get a touch of Mrs Hinch’s style in your home with the new Mrs Hinch tesco home range. The collection includes some lovely pieces to give your home a modern update, and they’re really affordable. Spoiler alert: the range is almost entirely grey. We wouldn’t expect anything else. There is however a touch of white and eucalyptus green, too. Incorporated into the range are recycled glass, painted wood, and messages of positivity, which we all need. Mrs Hinch has already added some of the pieces including the cushions and duvet cover to her own home. We know Mrs Hinch’s Tesco homeware will be incredibly popular, so advise snapping these up as soon as possible. Mrs Hinch Tesco homeware range Hinch Oversized Seersucker Silver Double Duvet Set Image credit: Tesco x Hinch Update your bedroom with this textural bed set in silver. We love that it doesn’t have to be ironed to look good, and at £26 you can’t go wrong. The duvet set also comes in fresh white for a crisp hotel bed look. Buy now: Hinch Oversized Seersucker Silver Double Duvet Set, £26, Tesco Hinch Decorative Drawers Image credit: Tesco x Hinch A floral pattern of eucalyptus leaves, calming grey and white hues and carved detailing make this piece a winner. The drawers measure 27cm in height, and are 26cm wide and 10cm deep, ideal for storing jewellery and delicate items. We just can’t get over the £12 price tag. Buy now: Hinch Decorative Drawers, £12, Tesco Hinch glass lamp   Image credit: Tesco x Hinch Having multiple sources of light always helps to create a cosy atmosphere, and this classic lamp, £35, is perfect in a small living room or hallway. This is because its transparent glass won’t create a solid block of colour, but will blend into its surroundings. With a bubbled glass surface, the lamp will add subtle charm and work with a grey colour scheme. Speaking about the lamp, Mrs Hinch said, ‘I wanted it simple but still pretty, to suit so many different home styles, and I hope you love it as much as I do!’ Hinch In Drawer Organiser 3 Pack Image credit: Tesco x Hinch While they might not have the ‘ooh’ factor, these organisers are a great bedroom storage idea. It was important to Mrs Hinch that the organisers were sturdy and would keep their shape, so expect them to be nice and firm. They will make drawers so neat you’ll save loads of time looking for odd socks. Follow Marie Kondo’s method and go dark socks on the left, fading to white socks on the right. Buy now: Hinch In Drawer Organiser 3 Pack Hinch tufted tile cushion Image credit: Tesco x Hinch The collection just wouldn’t be complete without a soft cushion to karate chop into position on the sofa or bed. This one is oversized and costs £14 . It’s a quick way to add interest to a living room, just place it among plain linen or cotton cushions. Mrs Hinch said, ‘We managed to find a filler that chops, and the filler itself is made from 100% recycled polyester – it comes from things like recycled bottles, which I just think is brilliant.’ She explains that the tile pattern is tufted by hand and is made from sustainably sourced cotton. The cushion isn’t currently available on the Tesco website, but you might get lucky and spot it in your local store. Related: Your ultimate 2021 cleaning calendar! One big job to tackle for every month to keep busy What will you be adding to your basket? The post Mrs Hinch's Tesco homeware range will take your grey obsession to the next level appeared first on Ideal Home.

Primark is back! And extending its opening hours by two hours this week Posted: 12 Apr 2021 06:30 AM PDT Primark will be extending its opening times by two hours in many of its stores from 7am to 10pm this week to avoid crowding in stores. Related: The 5 Primark homeware buys we can’t wait to shop when stores open on Monday The high street giant has been one of the many non-essential stores that were shuttered for three months during the last lockdown. Fans couldn’t wait to return to the store this morning when the Prime Minister gave the green light for non-essential retailers to reopen. When does Primark open? Image credit: Primark The pent up Primark demand appears to be huge as shoppers began queuing at 7 am to get into the Primark flagship stores in London’s Oxford Street and Birmingham. To help cope with the huge number of Primark shoppers flocking to the stores, Primark like many other high street stores has extended its opening hours. Most Primark store will open from 7 am to 10 pm. However, some outlets, including Birmingham and West Thurrock in Essex, opened as early as 6 am this morning. Which Primark stores are extending opening hours? Primark has said it will extend opening hours across all 160 England and Wales stores apart from one in Newcastle to spread demand and help customers shop safely. The extended opening hours will vary from store to store so you will need to check at your local Primark using Primark’s shop locator tool for the updated times. Image credit: Mike Hewitt / Getty The only store not extending its opening hours is located in Newcastle but will be open from 8am until 8 pm. ‘It's great to be back,’ Paul Marchant, CEO of Primark told the BBC. ‘Our stores are fully stocked with fresh new season fashion, all at Primark's famous amazing prices.’ ‘Between our great value, everyday must-haves and hot new season trend collections, we've got everything our customers have been waiting for,’ he adds. Related: Budget Primark towels win rave reviews from shoppers – and industry experts ‘We have been working really hard to get our stores ready to open safely; we are fully stocked with everything our customers have been waiting for. We ask our customers to continue supporting us and be mindful of our in-store measures, in particular, if queuing outside and in-store.’ The post Primark is back! And extending its opening hours by two hours this week appeared first on Ideal Home.

Best fire pits 2021: our favourite chimineas and gas fire pits Posted: 12 Apr 2021 04:43 AM PDT Even when the weather isn’t playing nice, buying the best fire pit of 2021 will make sure you’re prepared for evenings in the garden when it does. Fire pits can invoke memories of rustic campfires and hot drinks, but many of the top options in our guide can also work as stylish feature pieces in your garden or patio. Love outdoor entertaining? Check out the best BBQs Some of the best fire pits are powered by classic firewood, with all the smoke and crackling noises you associate with camping trips and bonfires, whereas others are gas fire pits designed to make evening entertaining easier than ever. All you need to do is flip a switch and you’ve got a stylish heater on your hands. There are so many styles on offer, from minimalistic fire bowls to multifunctional fire pit tables, perfect for entertaining. If you have a small space or don’t want to risk it with an open flame, our guide to the best fire pits also features some of the best chimineas on the market for all the warmth and charm, but less of the smoke. For our top picks of the best fire pit in 2021, keep reading. Alternatively, check out the best patio heaters. The best fire pits of 2021 1. MADE Rada Metal Firepit Best fire pit overall Simple and striking, the Rada Metal Firepit has a blocky design that will make the most of even a modest space. It’s got four sturdy legs and a matte black finish. The dimensions are 40cm high and 70cm wide and deep. There’s also no assembly needed, so simply add some firewood and enjoy! The steel material is durable, but be prepared to lose the matte black finish if you leave it outside for prolonged periods of time. As with most of the best fire pits, this one will rust. 2. Crocus Cast Iron Disc Fire Pit Best value fire pit Who said you can't get a great fire pit on a budget? The Crocus Cast Iron Disc Fire Pit is a compact option but weighing in at 12kg, it’s sturdy enough for prolonged use this summer. The stand elevates it from your lawn and adds to the otherwise modest 20cm height, and with a width of 60cm it’s a great size for most gardens. This budget option has all the charm of some of the more expensive fire pits out there, and its smaller footprint makes it easy to store. Plus, the cast iron design will weather well for use year after year. 3. MADE Ivy Line Outdoor Fire Pit with Rectangular Base Best fire pit table The ultimate multi-purpose fire pit, this clay table with iron firepit comes with a log store, and you can buy an additional grate to transform it into a barbecue. We love the tabletop-effect this fire pit gives, making it perfect for sitting around in the evenings and warming your hands over. You can use the space under the fire pit table as storage, which is ideal for keeping a firewood supply close for extended evenings. 4. Cox & Cox Industrial Style Fire Pit Best decorative fire pit available in both small and regular sizes, this fire pit from Cox & Cox is a compact crowd-pleaser. The design is striking and it will age well as it rusts. Because the bowl can be carried and tipped out it's easy to remove ash and wood after use, and the frame won't gather and hold water thanks to its clever design. This isn't one for a roaring fire, but if you're dealing with a smaller space it's got everything you could ask for. It’s made of raw steel and has that rustic brazier-style design without losing the visibility of your fire as it burns. 5. Elementi Concrete Propane Fire Pit Table Best gas fire pit  If you want all the joy of a fire pit without the fiddly ignition, opt for a gas fire pit. This Concrete Propane Fire Pit Table from Elementi is a great option for entertaining and it can go on your patio. The gas is discreetly tucked away and it will burn clean because there’s no smoke involved. At 68cm wide this is a decent size gas fire pit, so gather round with your patio furniture and enjoy the glow. 6. Crocus Rusty Square Fire Basket Best fire basket Sturdy and simple, this fire basket comes oxidised and is made of laser-cut steel that looks great and circulates the air for a well-fed fire. It's safe to use because of the deep design, and with a width of 60cm and a height of 45cm, it's a pretty generous option without being tricky to store. You could even use it as storage in the off-season. This design is a little close to the ground, so be careful about placing it on a prized lawn. 7. MADE Josper Metal Cut Out Firepit Best large fire pit Store your wooden logs below this firepit for easier burning. It's got a removable bowl that makes cleanup a breeze, and this also makes it easy to access the wood from below. With a width of 87cm this is definitely a large option for some gardens. It does make a statement though, and will give you a roaring fire if you've got the garden to accommodate it. This design will rust over time, so keep stored away when not in use if you want to preserve the clean black finish. 8. La Hacienda Arlington Clay Chiminea Best chiminea fire pit Made of stone-effect clay and with that all-important rain lid, this chiminea fire pit is a top choice for easy assembly and safe construction. If you're concerned about pets or kids then the contained design will make you feel a little more comfortable, and the open mouth will still give that crackling fire you crave. The distressed finish is eclectic and traditional, and because it's not metal you won't experience rusting. What's not to love? 9. MADE Josper Low Metal Firepit Best fire bowl Deep and low-lying, this fire bowl from MADE is a very popular choice. It has a sturdy frame and removable bowl, meaning you can dispose of ash easily. We also like the unfussy steel design, and think it will age well as it rusts. To avoid rusting though, just keep it out of the rain. You do lack storage with this option, where others offer space to keep fire wood and other essentials. The minimal design is a winner for those who want things simple and sleek. 10. Cox & Cox Outdoor Braziers Best brazier Buy this outdoor brazier from Cox & Cox in small or large sizes, with diameters of 75cm or 100cm respectively. No matter how you look at it, this is an imposing fire pit. It's also got a natural and simplistic design though, which will work well for prolonged use. The handles will make it easy to move and its legs are attached for the utmost stability. This is a mid-price option that will fit the bill for most families, and because you can choose your desired size there’s something for everyone. How to choose the best fire pit 2021 Some fire pits are style statements in and of themselves. There are some beautiful fire globes with cutouts that will cast shadows across your lawn, or simple matte black bowls for a more dramatic look. If budget is a consideration, it's perfectly possible to buy a fire pit for around £30. Some are a lot more expensive though, with larger and more sturdy designs that will see you through summers to come. Different types of fire pit include chimineas, which have a (you guessed it) chimney shape, and fire pits, which have a more traditional bowl-style design. Some can even be fitted with a grill for multipurpose use – just stick on some sausages and you've got an easy alfresco meal. Will a fire pit damage my patio? Most fire pits aren't safe to place on a patio. Not only can their heat discolour your patio, but they can also potentially burn or crack any slabs or wood because they burn so hot and are often low-lying. That said, there are some fire pits that can be placed safely on a patio. A gas fire pit table is designed to elevate the heat source well away from the ground.  If in doubt, it's best to place your fire pit on the lawn. If you do want to place it on the slabs, some retailers advise placing a tile between the fire pit and the patio itself so the patio isn't damaged.  Will a fire pit burn my lawn? Fire pits are definitely better for your lawn than a campfire. If you've spent time carefully cultivating your lawn though, you don't want to risk any burning. Fire pits could well burn the grass, because while the heat is elevated away from the ground itself the grass does sit quite close. To avoid this opt for something on a taller stand that removes your fire pit from the ground as much as possible. You could also place a slab of tile or stone under the fire pit, which will not only stabilise it but will create a barrier between the bowl and the grass. The post Best fire pits 2021: our favourite chimineas and gas fire pits appeared first on Ideal Home.

Homebase is launching mini garden centres at Next stores this week Posted: 12 Apr 2021 04:00 AM PDT Exciting news for Next fans – the retailer is teaming up with Homebase to launch Garden by Homebase at Next. From today, Monday, April 12, shoppers will be able to buy compost and plant pots while browsing Next’s spring fashion offerings. Related: Brilliant budget garden ideas – boost your outdoor space without breaking the bank! The venture reflects a shift in the way we’ll be doing our shopping in the future, with stores offering more of an ‘experience’ than ever before. This collaboration comes as no surprise when for years you’ve been able to get your eyebrows threaded at Superdrug, or go for coffee in Waterstone’s. Image credit: Alamy We love the concept of shopping for workwear, kids’ clothes, and bedding while also getting a dose of inspiration for outdoor living room ideas. ‘We're delighted to be joining forces with Next and bringing our garden products and expertise to its stores,’ said Damian McGloughlin, chief executive of Homebase. ‘It's all part of our wider commitment to make shopping with us easier and provide even more inspiration and expert advice. Image credit: Alamy ‘We're a great nation of gardeners, with more and more people enjoying the benefits of gardening and being outside. The launch of these new garden centres means we're able to offer more gardeners, both experienced and those just starting out, Homebase products in more locations across the country.’ Garden by Homebase at Next is particularly helpful for the beginner gardeners among us who might find big garden centres a little intimidating. Just like the homeware section at Next, there’ll simply be a garden area for budding gardeners to explore and spark garden ideas for their own plot. It comes at a great time, helping us make the most of our outdoor spaces as the weather warms up this spring – whether you have a vast garden or tiny balcony. If you’ve been wondering about how to make a garden home office, our expert tips on creating a workspace in your garden will help. Garden furniture looking a bit tired? Our garden seating ideas piece has endless options to upgrade your garden. Image credit: Getty / the_burtons Related: See how one DIYer achieved a designer-look plant pot for a fraction of the price Which stores will have Garden by Homebase at Next? Garden by Homebase at Next will be in place in Shoreham, Ipswich, Warrington, Camberley, Bristol and Sheffield. The launch is happening at the same time as the reopening of non-essential shops after a third national lockdown. Many of us who have spent time decorating our homes and tending to our back gardens will soon be able to pick up some garden supplies in these mini garden centres while taking in the fashion trends. The post Homebase is launching mini garden centres at Next stores this week appeared first on Ideal Home.

Cottage garden ideas – create a charming country-style garden in any setting Posted: 12 Apr 2021 03:44 AM PDT Cottage gardens are one of the most sought-after styles when it comes to garden designs, thanks to their ease and versatility. From thoughtful planting to charming garden structures, cottage garden ideas bring an element of escapism where we feel like we’re in the heart of the country – even if in reality we’re in the centre of town. The planting style is relaxed, creating a rich tapestry of colour from flowers and plants, including annuals and cut flowers. Best of all, there are no rules – simply grow what you love to create a garden that's uniquely yours. Pollinating insects and birds also love cottage gardens too, making this style of garden a haven for wildlife. Visit our garden channel for all your garden decor ideas and inspiration What is cottage garden style? The secret of cottage-style planting is that it is not too contrived, so rough planning is all that is needed. Don't have plants neatly graded from short at the front to neat at the back, but mix them up to achieve a more organic look. Keep in mind, however, that there is usually a formal framework of hedges or stone terraces behind all that charming disarray. ‘Whether you have flower beds and borders to fill, a patio to update with containers or a front garden to refresh, this timeless look will add beautiful colour to enjoy year after year’ says resident gardening expert and Dobbies Horticultural Director, Marcus Eyles. ‘A classic cottage garden is filled with pastel shades, roses, foxgloves and delphiniums to name a few. Loved by bees and butterflies, your garden will be brought to life with the gentle sound of buzzing and humming – a joyous backdrop to soak up summer sunshine in.’ Cottage garden ideas 1. Create a colour scheme Image credit: NDS Naturaldesignstudio.co.uk 'Pick a colour scheme, a warm or cool palette can help to give the garden definition' advises Phoebe Aubury at Natural Design Studio. 'Limiting the amount of colours and using colour theory such as complimentary colours can help to avoid clashing and keep it looking harmonious rather than messy.' 2. Grow foxgloves image credit: Annaick Guitteny ‘With their spires of bell-shaped flowers much loved by bees, foxgloves are a cottage garden favourite’ explains Marcus from Dobbies. ‘Available in creams, pinks and lavenders, they help brighten shady spots and are great planted with Hostas and Ferns.’ These purposeful blooms can be grown in any sized garden plot, even in containers on a small balcony. 3. Let grasses grow image credit: Yeo Valley Organic Garden Mowing the lawn is no longer in favour – leave grasses and those with seed heads uncut to help support wildlife. On BBC Gardeners' World Monty Don encouraged gardeners to take a more relaxed approach to mowing their lawns, allowing nature to thrive. Sarah Mead, creator of the Yeo Valley Organic Garden wholeheartedly agrees. ‘If you only do one thing this year to improve your garden's value for nature, be more like Monty and cut your grass less, or not at all,’ says Sarah Mead, Head Gardener at Yeo Valley Organic and creator of the Yeo Valley Organic Garden in Somerset. Sarah continues, ‘Global biodiversity is in decline and our climate is warming. It's essential that we all recognise the small changes we can make that have a huge collective impact on our environment. Putting your feet up instead of getting the mower out is top of the list!’ 4. Grow a wildflower meadow Image credIt: Jon Day ‘Where a cottage is set in a beautiful countryside location, it can be an opportunity to create a space which reflects this backdrop,’ explains  James Scott, of The Garden Company. ‘A wildflower meadow is a great way to achieve this, even if there is just space for a miniature version. Meadows do take perseverance and several years to establish; however, once achieved they are relatively low maintenance and require just 1 cut per year.’ 5. Welcome wildlife Image credit: Jon Day Cottage gardens are ideal for attracting wildlife. Aside from the planting you can encourage wildlife to take up refuge in your garden with the simple addition of bird boxes and insect houses. Not only are they welcoming for wildlife they help to add a charming decorative touch to the garden decor too. Read more: Wildlife garden ideas – 15 easy ways to turn your outdoor space into a haven for wildlife 6. Encourage rambling roses image credit: Amateur Gardening More vigorous than climbing roses, rambling roses grow in a more wild, untidy fashion, and will happily develop into a larger bush, hedge or tree. Climbing roses have a permanent framework of stems that produce flowering side shoots each year. To promote greater flowering, the framework stems should be trained by tying them to wire supports as close to horizontal as possible. Roses are divided into categories according to their growing and flowering habits. The main groups are large-flowered bush roses (hybrid teas), cluster-flowered bush roses (floribundas), shrub roses, climbers and ramblers. 7. Respond to the setting Image credit: NDS Naturaldesignstudio.co.uk ‘Look for inspiration in the surroundings of the garden’ advises Phoebe Aubury at Natural Design Studio. ‘The landscape around the garden will give you plenty of clues as to which materials are best suited to the setting. Using the local stone or brick type can help to tie a garden into its setting.’ 8. Consider your hedges and perennials Image credit: Mark Bolton For a classic cottage garden feel chose planting that will deliver. Select classic evergreens such as cypress, holly, box, copper beech or yew. Opt for classic perennials such as foxgloves, bellflowers, daylilies, delphinium and lavender – these will all offer a nice foliage in combination with roses. 9. Set the scene with stone walls Image credit: Matt Cant Choose hard landscaping that feels authentic to a rural countryside garden, as this courtyard garden has with its Cotswold stone wall. Accentuate the cottage garden feel by growing vines, red roses, and topiary plants. Add a rustic garden bench, such as this design with blue painted wooden slats and iron frame, to enhance the cottage-style vibes. 10. Lay winding pathways Image credit: Lizzie Orme A key design element for cottage gardens is the freedom of form, the layout is encouraged to be less structured and strict than a perfectly manicured, contemporary garden design. A gravel path that gentle winds its way within the garden helps to keep the look light and unrestrictive. Draw up plans to decide on where to place your paths, as well as the materials that you will use to construct them. Allow each square to represent a foot of space. Read more: Garden path ideas – curved and straight walkway designs in gravel, brick and stone for every budget 11. Appeal to the senses with aromatic planting Image credit: Nina Baxter Garden Designs This thoughtful garden design has created a romantic, traditional cottage garden which feels as if it has been there for years. ‘The designer Nina Baxter tells Ideal Home,’Rather than using traditional box hedging I specified Myrtus ‘Tarentina’. The garden is very sheltered and doesn’t suffer from hard frosts so I knew this would be ok through the winter. I love the aromatic foliage and it clips beautifully into low hedging. This was infilled with roses and perennials for an exuberant cottage garden feel.’ 12. Create secluded retreats Image credit: Lizzie Orme A beautiful cottage garden can help you to relax and unwind. Gardening expert James Scott, of The Garden Company, explains how he enhances the laid-back ethos of a cottage garden. ‘I like to create intimate havens with seating where people can feel completely immersed in the life of the garden.  These spaces can often be created with informal planting and I like using plants that will attract bees and butterflies, enhancing the feeling of having escaped from city/town life to the countryside.’ 13. Incorporate structural planting Image credit: NDS Naturaldesignstudio.co.uk ‘Use loose, atmospheric planting but don’t forget structure!’ exclaims Phoebe Aubury at Natural Design Studio. ‘Loose grasses and various textured perennials will help to create a natural, relaxed cottage feel, but remember to include evergreen shrubs that will give the garden shape and structure when all the herbaceous plants die back in the winter.’ 14. Champion rustic materials Image credit: Mark Bolton Fill the garden with natural textures and materials to welcome a rural feel to your gardening scheme. From willow screening to wicker baskets for planting, weave in plenty of country-style materials to accentuate the aesthetic of classic cottage decor. With all natural woven material ensure they are treated to withstand the elements, place them in more sheltered spots within the garden to preserve them further. 15. Grow your own Image credit: Rachel Whiting Traditionally cottage gardens were highly practical with an emphasis on growing your own vegetables and herbs, fruit trees – many even keeping livestock. With the ‘grow your own’ trend making a real resurgence over the last year, a veggie plot and potting station is a must for modern cottage gardens, too. ‘Grow your own’ is one of the fastest growing lifestyle movements with the number of Brits choosing a plant-based diet rising by more than 360 percent over the past decade. Coupled with rising food prices, shortages and a growing appreciation of organic produce, it’s no surprise the ‘grow your own’ movement will continue to surge in 2021. 16. Provide foundation planting Image credit: Brent Darby ‘A garden design is only successful if it sits comfortably in its surroundings’ says James Scott, MD of The Garden Company. ‘By using planting at the base of the house, garden walls and terraces, you can blend the boundaries between these 'hard' structures and the garden.  This creates a softer, more pleasing effect which is more in keeping with the cottage garden style than straight lines. 17. Fill borders with delphiniums Image credit: Jeremy Young ‘Another cottage garden favourite, delphiniums come in stunning shades of white, pink and blue’ Marcus explains. ‘They will often flower for a second time later in the season. Grow through plant supports to hold their flower spikes secure.’ Use delphiniums within borders to add height to your planting scheme. 18. Create structure with arches Image credit: Jamie Mason While cottage gardens in the main are relaxed and unstructured it can be beneficial to add key structures to aid planting and add a rustic touch with accessories. A metal arch or pergola is a great example, a style that suits a cottage garden scheme perfectly while at the same time providing support for climbing and trailing plants. Place an archway over a step to highlight the joining of two different garden zones, helping to create a flow from one into the other. 19. Balance informal planting ‘Cottage gardens lend themselves to abundant and apparently informal planting.  However, on its own and without structure this can look rather unkempt and haphazard for large parts of the year’ advises James Scott, of The Garden Company.  ‘I love to use naturalistic plants in combination with more formal planting – yew, hedges, domes and hornbeam for example – which provide a vertical element, sculptural form and sense of order.’ ‘These all-year round 'formal' plants can be softened and framed with beautiful grasses such as Calamagrostis brachytricha & Deschampsia Bronze Veil, late flowering perennials (for example, Verbena bonariensis and Aster x frikartii Monch).  Broadly speaking, the grasses and perennials provide colour, texture and romance; the trees and hedges provide order.’ 20. Immerse yourself among the planting Image credit: Spike Powell Take time to smell the roses. Immerse yourself fully within the the planting of a cottage garden by placing a dining table among the flower beds. A cottage garden is filled with dense planting that lives wild and free, creating a canvas of colour and scent – ideal for pitching an entertaining spot beside, to ensure you’re getting to enjoy the full extent of the beauty of the surrounding plot. 21. Make magical views ‘Cottage gardens are inviting and attractive’ explains James Scott, of The Garden Company.  ‘It's important to make functional elements of the garden (e.g. paths, steps, raised borders) a pleasing aspect rather than just a necessary feature.  For example, a simple path can become a sensory walkway by using a pergola and fragrant climbing plants.  The whole effect is to frame the view to a gazebo and create a destination point.’ 22. Make the most of front gardens Image credit: Jamie Mason Don’t neglect the front garden when it comes to adding pretty planting. The exterior of this white thatched roof country cottage is beautifully enhanced by a free planting of shrubs, grasses and bedding plants to add uplifting colour. It’s a good indicator from the front garden that the back garden will be bursting with colour and natural loveliness. 23. Set the scene with a charming arbour Image credit: Spike Powell A cottage garden can be instantly identifiable from the furniture choices. Country-style furniture, from wrought iron bistro dining sets to ornate wooden arbours, adds a charming touch to set the scene for cottage garden planting. 24. Find a way to include water ‘As well as its obvious benefits to a garden, water can add huge value to your cottage garden experience’ says James Scott, of The Garden Company. ‘It provides a different habitat for many plants and creatures, has a cooling effect in the summer and adds a new dimension in the form of movement and reflections.  Gentle sounds of moving water can also mask unwanted noise (traffic, neighbours).’ 25. Style garden accessories Image credit: Spike Powell Twee maybe, but this kennel makeover is a fine example of how your pets’ home can be made-over to enhance the look of a cottage-style garden. A lick of paint, preferable a soft pastel to coordinating a planting colour scheme, and  sweet fabric door curtains make this dog kennel so much more. 26. Pretty up a potting shed Image credit: Jon Day What cottage garden would be complete without a picturesque summerhouse or she shed? Up the cottage-style decor by adding a lick of paint in an invigorating shade of green and introduce floral print fabrics to soften the interior to make it feel more like a homely cottage. Read more: She shed ideas – create an idyllic garden retreat, from an art studio to an outdoor snug How do I start a cottage garden from scratch? Dobbies Horticultural Director, Marcus Eyles, reveals his step by step guide for creating a cottage garden: Prepare the soil ‘First prepare the soil for planting by forking in plenty of manure or garden compost and remove any weeds.’ Select your plants ‘Choose your favourite cottage garden plants, mixing heights, colours, textures and flowering times. A mixture of flowering and foliage plants works well, including annuals and cut flowers’. Plan a planting layout ‘Position in drifts for a natural look, planting shorter ones towards the front and taller ones behind. Self-seeding plants such as foxgloves and verbenas are a great way to knit the border together.’ Put in place and water ‘Using a garden spade, plant each to the same depth as its growing pot. Firm gently and water well, then add a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture. Provide support ‘As they grow, insert canes or metal plant supports around taller flowering plants to keep them secure in strong winds. Put them in early in the season and they'll soon be disguised by foliage. Nurture and prune Cut back faded stems in autumn. Then in spring, fork in some general fertiliser and add a fresh layer of mulch. What plants make a cottage garden? Image credit: Mark Bolton/Future A classic cottage garden is never complete with a variety of roses. The main pruning period for all roses is spring, depending on location in the UK – usually early in March in the south, and around the end of March in the north. If you prune too early in the season, there is a risk that the first flush of growth prompted by pruning may be burnt by frost. All roses are prone to pests and diseases, so take special care to treat any problems as soon as you spot them. You can prevent them by keeping your roses strong and healthy: pruning, deadheading and feeding will help. Spraying your plants with rose pesticide may help to keep pests at bay. In addition to roses foxgloves and delphiniums are also hugely popular for cottage gardens. Loved by bees and butterflies, these flowers help to bring a garden to life with the gentle sound of buzzing and humming – joyous background music of mother nature to enjoy the time spent outside. The post Cottage garden ideas – create a charming country-style garden in any setting appeared first on Ideal Home.

Best security camera – the top cameras for better home security Posted: 12 Apr 2021 01:57 AM PDT Even as we all return to leaving our houses more often, there’s not one of us who isn’t looking for more ways to keep our homes safe and secure. With smart home devices now becoming more affordable and commonplace, families are seeking more control over how they monitor comings and goings as well as any unwanted visitors who may come around. This can easily be done with the best security cameras, whether they’re standalone, part of a larger system (for more on this check out our guide to the best home security systems) or even built-in to a smart video doorbell. Huge improvements in the reliability of Wi-Fi as well as a near-universal adoption of smartphones mean that high-quality, app-controlled, noise and motion-sensitive wireless cameras can be set up at home with just a few clicks. Once up and running, these smart devices will remotely alert you to unusual activity inside and outside of the house – depending on where you have your camera or cameras set up. They can also be linked to other smart products around the home including Alexa or Google Home speakers so that, for example, if motion is detected by the front door, connected lights or sirens can be activated automatically. We’ve looked at some of the best security cameras on offer right now to help you choose the right one for your home. Scroll down to see what we thought, as well as for more advice on what to look out for. The best security cameras 2021 1. Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus Best security camera doorbell Credit: Ring Small, stylish and clever, the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus has A 1080p wide-angle, motion sensing camera with night vision that connects to your home Wi-Fi and alerts you – via smartphone app – if someone presses the bell or walks up to the house. Installation is seamless, with screwdriver, drill bit, wall plugs and screws all included, plus simple instructions whether you’re wiring to the mains or using the built-in battery. While slightly strange at first, being able to chat to the person at the door using two-way microphones is brilliantly useful if you’re not at home (no more missed parcels, as you can just ask the postman to deliver to next door). Image can still be grainy in the evening, but it’s more than good enough for everyday use. Our only gripe: you will need a wireless plug-in Chime (£29 each) if you want to hear the doorbell inside without your phone. Ideal Home rating: 5 out of 5 stars Read next: the best video doorbells that will make sure you never miss a delivery again 2. Netatmo Welcome Best indoor security camera The standout feature on this cute cylindrical design is the ability to identify faces, not just react to noise and motion. As a result, you can be told precisely when the kids get in from school, whether they've come back with 'new' friends and even text you when the cleaner shows up. And unlike Nest, face recognition comes as standard. The face detection technology isn't flawless but it is reliable once it sees a face a few times; for instance, you would need to identify yourself with and without glasses via the app. You can set the camera to only record strange faces, so you don't feel spied upon once you’re all home. Full HD 1080p video quality is great even in low light and thanks to the 8GB MicroSD card included you can store a week’s worth of content without the need for cloud subscription. It’s a reliable system with features unavailable elsewhere, and the design is stylish, but unless you have a shelf or sideboard in a very prominent position in the hallway or living room, finding the perfect location for it to track faces accurately is tricky. A wall mount would earn this camera a test-winning five stars. Ideal Home rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars 3. Nest Hello Video Doorbell Best wired security camera doorbell Like the excellent Ring Video Doorbell, Google's new Nest Hello will help you avoid missed deliveries, deter unwanted visitors and give yourself a grace period if the doorbell goes while you're otherwise engaged. But unlike Ring, the Hello has constant 24-7 recording as well as face and object recognition, so it works as a full-on security camera, not just a doorbell. It's a beautifully designed product – as you approach the door the a light ring pulses willing you to press it, but installation requires wiring through an existing doorbell chime. It can be as simple as swapping a couple of cables and screwing in a backplate, but if you don't have an existing wired doorbell you'll need a chime and transformer installing that will need an electrician. Nest offers installation (for £100 extra), but this doesn't cover all eventualities, so check before you buy. As with all Nest products the app is beautifully designed and easy to configure, so you'll have no issues once the Hello is installed. When the doorbell does get pressed you can get an alert on your phone, via the chime or on a Google Home smart speaker. I experienced some delays of up to 30-seconds between button press and phone alert, which is enough to put off a busy courier, but on the whole the experience was smooth, and I appreciated the ability to send a notification if was out or couldn't answer, such as "We'll be right there" or "No one can come to the door" or just talk through the built-in microphone. Without the monthly subscription you can get a snapshot image from the camera when it is triggered, but upgrade to Nest Aware (£4 per month) and the camera streams continually to the Cloud so you can watch the whole day back in glorious HD. I warn you, it's weirdly addictive watching your street's daily activity in fast forward! It's a slick product that will only continue to get better, but the faff of installation, and added cost means many people will opt for the Ring Video Doorbell, just for the convenience. Ideal Home rating: 4 out of 5 stars 4. Netgear Arlo Best security camera system Arlo is rare in being a completely wireless, battery powered system that can be used inside and outdoors, down to temperatures of -10°C. Each camera comes with a superb battery life of up to six months, but after that you will need to replace the batteries (4x Lithium CR12, around £8 each). We reviewed the two-camera bundle, which comes with a hub that connects to you Wi-Fi and can manage up to five Arlo cameras (15 if you use cloud services) and you get seven days of recordings for free. Set up using the companion app (iOS, Android) is painless, as is camera installation, thanks to the magnetic mounting brackets that make it easy to cover tight angles. At 110° the field of view isn't vast, but you can pan and zoom via the app and, despite being only 720, image clarity was excellent. It also lacks the ability to choose ‘recording zones’ so the camera’s whole field of vision is used, but you can reduce the sensitivity to prevent alerts from pets. There’s also no noise detection but, in our experience, this just reduces unnecessary alerts. Easy to expand, Netgear also offers the Arlo Pro (from £299), which includes a 100dB alarm, Arlo Baby monitor (£269) and various other smart cameras that can be linked to the same hub and app. Ideal Home rating: 4 out of 5 stars 5. Hive View Most stylish security camera Designed by the hugely respected Yves Behar, Hive View is a stylish little camera. You can choose from black and brushed copper or white and champagne gold – it doesn't exactly scream CCTV! It can be mounted just about anywhere and the dinky 56mm cube can even be removed and used remotely for up to an hour. I had no issues with set up and adjusting settings is straightforward. It took a while to get the sensitivity levels on the alerts right, but it's worth persevering to avoid false alarms. You can choose to ignore pets and just focus on people, and you get 24 hours of cloud recording for free, so you can look back over the day's events without subscription. If however you have a particularly amusing pet you can upgrade for £3.99 per month and download any hilarious clips. Likewise, you can also save clips of your house being burgled, or your partner stealing your chocolate, and they're stored on the cloud for 30-days. Since we last reviewed the Hive the app has had a complete overhaul. The camera is now compatible with the other products in the Hive range – you can improve home security by turning lights on in the house if the sensor is activated – and the app now comes with all the useful push alerts, motion notifications and sound detection we would expect. Ideal Home rating: 4 out of 5 stars Read next: home break-ins are on the rise – here's how to protect your home if you are a renter How to choose the best security camera for you It’s tempting to be cynical about smart home technology, and a remote operated washing machine still feels like a gimmick, but home security is one area where app-control really makes sense. Are security cameras worth it? Credit: Netgear From a security point of view, a app-controlled security camera means you can now catch an intruder and – thanks to high definition cameras with night vision – have evidence for the police, while also being able to call 999 instead of simply scaring the baddies off with an old-fashioned alarm. Wireless security cameras are useful if you need to keep an eye on both the young or elderly. The smartest Wi-Fi cameras can now recognise faces and alert you when a specific person gets home – from school, for instance. Just being able to log on and check that an elderly relative is home safe, or that their carer has been in, can offer genuine peace of mind. Doorbell cameras are also helping us to cope with our insatiable appetite for online shopping. Receiving an instant message when someone comes to the front door and being able to talk to the courier through your smartphone will diminish the need to waste time collecting parcels in the post office. And then there’s Fido to think of, stuck at home all day with only the sofa to chew on. With a new Wi-Fi camera, you can watch your pets in action, and if you choose a model with a built-in microphone you can even yell at them to get off the sofa. How much should I spend on a wireless security camera? At the cheapest end of the market you’ll find plenty of Wi-Fi cameras costing around £70-100, but the flagship brands such as Nest, Hive and Logitech can cost between £150-300 per camera. These generally have the best image quality and most useful features. Logitech, Netgear and Blink, to name just three, also sell multiple camera bundles which can help reduce costs, but if you want to cover your house – front and back doors, in the living room, office and nursery, maybe the garage – you will need to budget at least £600. The great thing about smart home kits is that, unlike the old fashioned wired CCTV systems, being wireless means you can simply add on components as and when you like. What are the key features of a wireless security camera? Motion sensors – If someone walks in front of your Wi-Fi camera it will instantly start recording and send an alert to your smartphone. With more advanced wireless security cameras you can choose where in a room (and how far from the lens) it senses motion Noise sensors – Like motion, these listen for extremes in sound before alerting you, such as breaking glass. This isn't available on all wireless security cameras. HD Camera – The vast majority of Wi-Fi security cameras offer 720p HD resolution, which is perfectly acceptable for most needs, but cameras with 1080p HD will have sharper images and smoother video. Lens – Look for the widest possible lens angle to ensure your security camera covers as much of the room as possible. Most are around 120-150° but some 180° models are available. By the end of the year we expect to see 360° cameras that can view an entire rom from one point. Outdoor use – The majority of Wi-Fi cameras are designed for indoor use, but brands have started to develop all-weather designs with long lasting batteries that can be mounted on the outside of buildings and offer another layer of home security. As with traditional security systems, just having a camera can be deterrent enough to the opportunistic burglar. Night Vision – An essential if you’re using the camera outside, with infrared LEDs they can pick out surprising levels of detail, even in (almost) pitch black. 2-Way Communication – With built-in microphone and speakers these wireless security cameras allow you to talk – or shout – via your smartphone. Essential if you’re installing it by the front door and want to chat with any visitors. Smartphone App – All ‘smart’ gadgets come with an app that gives you total control and quick access to the live camera and alerts. The best brands also offer compatibility with other devices – Nest, for instance, has thermostats, smoke alarms and other cameras, plus cross-brand compatibility with smart lighting and locks. Power – Mains powered wireless security cameras can often have more sophisticated features as battery life isn't an issue, but you will have to hide more cables. Battery operated cameras are increasingly popular as you can install them anywhere. Some can last for years, but it’s more typical for them to last a few weeks, so you’ll need to remember to charge them (the app will warn you when it’s time). What other questions do I need to ask about Wi-Fi cameras? Image credit: Netatmo Do I need voice-control? Some Wi-Fi security cameras now work using voice-control systems, so you can simply say “set the alarm” or “is the front door locked?” If you've invested in Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant enabled products, it’s a nice feature that will only improve as time goes on. Do security cameras need Wi-Fi? If you have a large house your security cameras may struggle to connect to the Wi-Fi, especially if mounted outside. If you suffer from regular drop-outs in coverage it might be wise to buy a Wi-Fi extender from a brand like TP-Link. How many wireless security cameras do I need? To cover every inch of your home you’ll need at least four cameras, but that’s not always necessary. A single well-located camera in the hallway will capture everyone coming in the front door. Do security cameras deter crime? If synched to a siren your wireless security camera will definitely spook unwanted visitors, but being mainly silent they’re better at catching intruders in the act. Outdoor and doorbell cameras are especially good at identifying opportunistic villains before they act. Should I stick to one brand of smart home kit?  Sadly, there’s still not one universal language allowing smart lights, cameras, thermostats and fridges to all work happily together, which makes the argument for choosing one brand stronger, particularly as they can all be controlled using just one app. Apple users might want to look for HomeKit compatible products that, regardless of brand, can all be accessed through the Home app on their iPhone. Are security cameras an invasion of privacy? There have been stories in the news about computer hackers being able to access your smart home products, and watch you through your cameras, but in reality, as with anything involving the internet, if you choose a decent password, have anti-virus software and use common sense when opening attachments on e-mail you shouldn’t be at risk. If you or your family are concerned about being recorded at home you can set up many smart Wi-Fi cameras to turn off at those times you’re at home, some come with lens covers to guarantee nobody can record you, while others use your phone’s GPS to track your locations and turn off when you get home. What about wireless security camera subscription services? Although all the Wi-Fi security cameras we’ve tested come with some free features – and a certain amount of memory for video and pictures, either saved on SD cards or in the cloud – to get the best features you generally have to pay extra. Costing from £2.99 to £7.99 per month, these subscription services allow you to save between 14 and 31 days’ worth of video, meaning you never miss an important alert. Subscriptions can also upgrade the camera, adding extra features such as face recognition, as well as offering discounts on other ‘smart’ product. Paying extra might be a good investment if you’re creating a dedicated home security system, but for casual use you might be better to stick with the standard features or choosing a brand like Blink or Netatmo who don't charge extra. What is the best security camera? We rate the Ring Video Doorbell as the best security camera to buy right now. The Netatmo Welcome is our top pick for those with children and teens at home. How we test our security cameras Chris Haslam is one of the leading technology journalists in the UK, with two decades of experience. He has installed all of the leading wireless security cameras in his own home, and tested them out over weeks and months, getting the whole family involved – including the dog! This is key, as many cameras have pet modes, so he’s been able to give them a truly thorough reviews. Chris has set up hundreds of smart home products over the years, so he is an excellent judge of how easy – or tricky – these products are to install. And as a former Ideal Home staff member, he knows which cameras will truly work for you, day to day. The post Best security camera – the top cameras for better home security appeared first on Ideal Home.

Too many bank transfers can stop you getting a mortgage Posted: 11 Apr 2021 11:00 PM PDT As if getting getting a mortgage wasn’t already difficult, there’s one more thing potential applicants should bear in mind – the number of bank transfers you make every month. It may sound unimportant but it could actually stop you getting a mortgage, according to a mortgage expert. Related: First-time buyer and applying for a low-deposit mortgage? These are 3 things you must do to succeed Melanie Whiting, Mortgage Manager at Norton Finance, points out that ‘it is surprising what can affect a client's chances of obtaining a mortgage and it isn't the things you would automatically assume.’ So, while most people are aware of the importance of keeping on top of payments, knowing your credit score, and being on the electoral register, they may not be scrutinising their bank transfer behaviours enough. Not keeping track of your transfers can stop you getting a mortgage Image credit: Colin Poole You may have read the recent ‘jokey bank reference’ scare, where young people are being advised not to put down references to illegal activities such as taking drugs as a joke when transferring money to their friends and family. But can this behaviour really result in a failed mortgage application? Well, Melanie emphasises that the problem isn’t really the jokey payment references (although they can certainly lead to an awkward conversation with your lender), but the number of bank transfers, which suggest to lenders that you’re a frequent borrower: ‘enders and brokers have to act extremely responsibly when assessing suitability for a mortgage and are looking for a client who is acting in the same manner as this is still generally perceived as a big long term commitment and the consequences for the lenders and customers if they then go on to default is very severe.  Customers who generally don't live within their means borrowing from family or friends regularly with money often being transferred each month with jokey references can ring alarm bells.’ Image credit: Colin Poole So, it isn’t the references you should be worried about, but your spending patterns. Lenders are looking for proof that you are responsible and in control of your finances, so stop letting friends pay for dinner saying ‘I’ll pay you back later’, and pay your share there and then. Remember, ‘our whole lifestyles show through our bank statements now as everything becomes more and more online and card based’, so i f you want a mortgage, you’ll need to make the right impression on the lender Don’t forget to avoid overdrafts – and be honest Melanie adds that ‘customers always living within an overdraft or over their limits can also have the same issue especially if the new borrowing is going to be a higher commitment.’ What this means is that even if you only go into your overdraft a tiny bit but it happens all the time, you have poorer chances of getting a mortgage. It’s not the amount so much that counts, but the fact that you’re constantly overdrawn. Related: Martin Lewis reveals his top tips for getting a mortgage as a first-time buyer image credit: Future PLC Melanie advises everyone to read their bank statements ‘very carefully and ensure monthly spending is kept to a reasonable and responsible level’ before applying. Don’t assume that the mortgage lender won’t notice if there are issues, and be honest rather than telling ‘brokers and lenders what they think they want to hear instead of the actual facts as they are and will be in the near future as this is what lenders base their assessments on.’ The post Too many bank transfers can stop you getting a mortgage appeared first on Ideal Home.

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