Ideal Home

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• Garden screening ideas – 11 ways to add decorative privacy
• How to paint decking – a handy step by step guide
• This opulent sofa design is surging in popularity, says Argos
• Renovation mortgages explained
• Energy price increases: work out how much your gas and electricity will cost you
• What is the UK energy crisis and why have prices gone up?
• Outdoor wall lighting ideas to illuminate your garden to perfection
• Concrete kitchen floor ideas – 17 ways to introduce this popular style
• 10 modern bathroom tile ideas to inspire your next project
• Kelly Hoppen exclusively shares her secret to styling a small bathroom on an even smaller budget

Garden screening ideas – 11 ways to add decorative privacy Posted: 02 Apr 2022 01:00 AM PDT Garden screening ideas are trending, as we strive to use our outside spaces in more comprehensive ways. The humble fence has had many re-imaginings over the last few decades, with the traditional lap fence usurped by fanciful fretwork screens, uber-contemporary slim slats or chunky, black metal panels. Garden screening ideas It's not just fences that can shield you from the eyes of neighbours and passers-by. Creative garden landscaping ideas include Pergolas, gazebos and super-sized plants to offer credible options for successful garden screening. Beyond privacy each can solve a variety of grumblings in your garden – from providing shade or warmth to adding decoration and absorbing noise. 1. Go faux for instant results Image credit: Wayfair Ivy is a fast-growing climber, but even the speediest of varieties will take a few months to result in screening that's dense and lush. Faux foliage, on the other hand, will provide instant – and impressive – results. The market is awash with artificial foliage panels that can be erected quickly and with minimal effort, and there are all sorts to choose from – from classic green and autumnal red to ones peppered with faux flowers or fairy lights. Panels with an abundance of foliage that looks convincingly real will make your wallet wince more than flimsier versions, but worth the extra expense if your budget allows. If it doesn't, but you need extra coverage, grow real ivy, clematis or jasmine to intertwine with the faux foliage. In more good news, artificial foliage screening panels are usually backed onto a trellis, which you can use to attach decorative accessories to – such as a mirror or metal birds – to add character, colour and extra screening! Buy now: Maen Plastic Expanding Trellis, £96.99, Wayfair.co.uk 2. Turn a simple fence into a style statement Image credit: Future PLC Is a garden fence idea just a fence or is it wall space crying out to be utilised? Ask yourself this if your fence is shielding you from the neighbours, but is a dull, blank canvas. Paint it first – not just for colour and to disguise blemishes – but to protect it – then nail in rows of simple slats (you can by these ready-cut from DIY shops). If they're not already black, paint them a dark shade; a pale colour will quickly show up dirt. Attach hooks to hang planters and zinc buckets (drill drainage holes in the bases first) from, filled with herbs and trailing plants. The greenery will really pop against the dark background, creating a statement wall, adding storage and freeing up floor space, so it's a great idea for balconies and small patio spaces too. And it doesn't just have to display plants! Solar light bulbs, lanterns, an outdoor clock or a galvanised watering would be welcome and useful additions. 3. Erect a pergola to screen from above Image credit: Dobbies When it comes to garden screening, you can block even the most minuscule gap at eye level, but a neighbour needs only to climb their stairs to enjoy an unimpeded view of your garden. Help comes in the form of a pergola – a simple but sweet solution to creating a sanctuary that's screened-off from above, as well as providing a pleasing-looking structure to allow easy climbing plants and vines to grow up (and over). It has a natural, Fairytale quality to it, too, creating a romantic feel. For a more modern look, or until your trailing greenery has grown, swathe the roof of a pergola with multi-coloured bamboo screening or raffia (both available in rolls) or with strings or festoon lights. It's even possible to install solar panels on top, but check your structure and positioning with a specialist first. 4. Use freestanding panels to zone areas Image credit: logifirepits.com Decorative, latticed metal panels offer more than just good looks. Freestanding ones can be utilised as quick but quirky alternatives to fence panels, as they negate the need for digging and inserting concrete posts (and my, don't they look glorious too!) But because these types of panels invariably feature filigree or fretwork, they don't offer as much coverage as a solid panel would. What they do excel at though, is zoning the garden into areas; from separating a dining table from a chill out space or using two to partition an office area. Gardenesque.co.uk champions decorative fencing for its, 'contemporary aesthetic and ability to elegantly hide certain things in our gardens that we don't necessarily want on show – such as wheelie bins, compost heaps, water butts and storage areas'. Better yet, they're portable (albeit heavy!), allowing you adjust their position according to purpose. Buy now: Rose Garden Design Patio Screen, £299, logifirepits.com 5. Introduce a sense of cohesion Image credit: Future PLC Square fence panels in a pale wood with slim slats laid horizontally rank highly on the modernity dial and provide a fine balance of allowing light to flow through but hindering unwanted eyes or an ugly building. They are so striking and glaringly contemporary though, that alone, they can look incongruous to the rest of your garden. You can overcome this by embracing their chic, Scandi elements and echoing them elsewhere in your garden – perhaps a slatted bench in blonde wood, a simple but chic coffee table and curved concrete planters, with lashings of green plants. 6. Use tiles to disguise an unsightly wall Image credit: Porcelain Superstore If privacy in your garden isn't an issue, but aesthetics are, disguising an existing unsightly wall can be a real game-changer. The go-to solution is paint, but tiles will deliver more in terms of pattern, texture and character, and will last longer. 'Outdoor porcelain tiles are perfect for the British weather', 'says Abbas Youssefi, Director of Porcelain Superstore, 'they're virtually impervious to water and are unaffected by extremities of heat – and they are very, very low maintenance. Plus, they won't fade in the sunlight, so they are absolutely fine to use in sun traps'. Buy now: Spirit Grey Tiles, £42 per m², porcelainsuperstore.co.uk 7. Create a quiet enclosure Image credit: IKEA A curtained gazebo may not possess the wow factor of an all-out summerhouse or garden room idea, but it'll provide similar elements; screening on all sides, warmth and functionality – and all without the hefty price tag. Its pitched roof and generous drapes create a sense of grandeur, making it ideal for turning an alfresco dinner into a celebratory occasion, with the added benefit of using the framework to suspend a pendant light or a heater from. Or, draw the curtains, add a rug, beanbags and a projector, and a mini cinema – for little ones and big ones alike – is yours! Gazebos work well as an office space or shaded reading nook in the corner of a garden, where the curtains on the two sides that sit in the corner can be drawn, and the other two left open, shielding you from the neighbours' vision as well as their voices (the canvas roof and curtains will absorb sound) but affording you views of your garden. Buy now: Himmelso Gazebo with Curtains, £320, IKEA 8. Hide behind tropical plants Image credit: Future PLC/ Douglas Gibb We associate the word, 'tropical' with hot and humid climes, but there are many tropical plants that will thrive in a UK climate, growing tall and wide, thus ideal for creating a natural, green screen in your garden. Opt for hardy plants such as palms and yuccas, which are not only lovely to look at, but quick to grow and easy to care for. Bamboo is notorious for its supersonic growing speed, but as the experts are gardenesque.co.uk warn, 'it can be invasive so it's best grown in pots to keep it contained'. In fact, planting some tropical plants in pots and others directly into the ground will allow you to curb the growth of the rampant ones and encourage growth for the rest. Plus, you'll be able to move the pots to where they are required the most, such as around the hot tub decking area. 9. Use reeds for speedy screening Image credit: Future/Max Attenborough Not only is reed screening one of the snappiest solutions to screen your garden, but it's versatile, widely available and keenly priced. Lightweight and flexible, it's a material (along with bamboo and willow) that can be easily be curved around corners or attached to a shabby wall, fence or balcony railings, creating a natural, home-spun look along the way. Its pliable nature means it can also be used as a canopy over a pergola and the only looking after it takes is a good wash every now and then to prevent algae from forming. Be warned if you're a colour enthusiast though, as this type of screening can't be painted, but there's nothing from stopping you from prettying it up with bright bunting or multi-coloured carnival lights. 10. Make the fence the feature image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Wreford Traditional, no-frills fence panels are adept at blocking views, but they can offend the style-minded. Of course, they can be improved with a lick of paint or disguised behind plants, but a bolder option would be to ditch the traditional route entirely and to switch up to a smart, contemporary fence, that can be displayed in all it's glory, rather that trying to blend into the background. Plump for a sombre colour, such as grey, navy or black. You want to avoid colours that will naturally blend into a garden, such as green, cream or brown as well as those which will stand out, but look too kitsch or childish, such as pink, red or orange. Opt for a strong pattern but keep it smart and symmetrical – so no fancy curves or mixy matchy shapes. Hanging a simple clock, mirror or shelf on it centrally will draw extra attention and turn it into a focal point. 11. Use woven panels to create open zones Image credit: Future PLC/Spike Powell When you want to create zones but feel solid fencing would feel too harsh choose woven garden screening ideas. Such as these willow panels. The open weave structure provides a more airy approach to fencing an area in, to avoid breaking the flow of the space. Especially handy in a small garden where you don’t wish to make it feel even more limited. Re-cycling and re-purposing can all come into play when it comes to garden screening ideas, particularly if you're on a budget. A shabby, existing fence or new but inexpensive screening, such as willow, reed or bamboo, can up its country-style credentials by teaming it with vintage-style objects that look as good as they are useful. Apple crates always look lovely, plus they can be piled up to create a storage unit, while a pre-loved wooden chair, table or ladder will look charming, and can be used to display plants on. It's vital that you position your items strategically. So pile the apple crates when you need extra screening the most, and that the objects look harmonious when they're grouped together. Ensure they're of a similar ilk in terms of style and colours to bring a sense of unity. What is the best type of garden screening? 'Bamboo screens and fence panels are the quickest and easiest ways to screen', say the experts at Gardenesque.com, 'trees can be a natural way for effective screening but may take a while to grow to the desired height. Silver birch, hornbeam, beech, rowan and willow are relatively fast growing and are readily available in garden centres'. How can I stop my neighbours overlooking my garden? 'If you have fencing already in place, a simple way is to add a section of trellis on top of your existing fence or wall,' suggests the team at Gardenesque. 'Plants can provide more privacy especially once some climbers and foliage have grown. Evergreen, fast-growing plants such as ivy or vines will offer low maintenance garden screening'. The post Garden screening ideas – 11 ways to add decorative privacy appeared first on Ideal Home.

How to paint decking – a handy step by step guide Posted: 02 Apr 2022 12:00 AM PDT With our gardens slowly coming to life again, it’s time to get ahead with garden prep ready for the summer season. If you have a decked area, it’s a good idea to give it some TLC, securing any loose boards, cleaning off mildew before finding out how to paint decking to give it a new coat of paint. There are plenty of decking ideas to help you make the most of your garden, but to keep your decking in top condition, some regular maintenance will keep it looking good for years to come. ‘Make sure decking is cleaned regularly and try to avoid leaves or soil from collecting on the surface. Put saucers or terracotta feet under your planters and keep it as clear as possible in the winter,’ advises Marianne Shillingford, creative director at Dulux and Cuprinol. ‘When you see signs of wear and tear, clean, allow to dry and apply another couple of coats of anti-slip decking stain.’ Read our guide below so you can be confident in how to paint decking. How to paint decking Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole What you’ll need: Stiff bristled broom Decking cleaner Bucket Pressure washer/garden hose Filler/screws Screwdriver Masking tape Decking paint Decking paintbrush 1. Clear away dirty and debris Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole Before you go cracking open the paint, prepping your decking first is the best way to make sure you get a long lasting finish. Start by removing any furniture or plant pots from your decking so you have a clear space to work in. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast to make sure no rain is due while you’re painting or a few days after while the paint is drying. 2. Prep the surface Use a stiff bristled broom to sweep over the decking, making sure you get into all the grooves to clear them of dried leaves and other debris. Once clear, use decking cleaner to help remove mould, algae and dirt and use a pressure washer or your garden hose to carefully wash everything away and leave until completely dry. By putting in the effort with the prep, you’ll get the best results. ‘The best way to ensure you get the longest lasting finish that will be able to cope with everything the weather, your feet and furniture have to chuck at it you need to prepare and paint it in the right way,’ says Marianne. 3. Make any repairs Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles Once clean and dry, go over your decking and check for any loose screws, broken boards or areas that may need filling. Make any repairs that are needed and once you’re happy that everything is in good condition, use masking tape to seal off any areas that you don’t want to get paint on such as the brickwork of your house or the garden fence. 4. Paint your decking Start in the area furthest away from you and work backwards so you don’t have to walk on any newly painted areas. Paint in the direction of the grain using a decking brush, making sure you have an even coverage. If your decking has grooves make sure they are painted properly too by going over the area several times to reach difficult areas. Leave your first coat to dry for the time recommended by the paint manufacturer before adding another coat. 5. Leave to dry Image credit: Sadolin Before you put any garden furniture or plant pots back, make sure your decking is completely dry and check the surface carefully to make sure you haven’t missed any spots. If you’re putting plant pots on your decking, make sure they are raised off the ground slightly or they have feet to prevent a build up of mould or algae underneath. When moving furniture, don’t be tempted to drag it along the surface as this may scratch the newly painted surface. 6. Keep it well maintained Now your decking is looking like new it’s important to look after it with regular maintenance so it stays in top condition. ‘To keep your decking well-maintained, brush it regularly and at least once a year, do a deep-clean with your pressure washer. This will help to remove any grease or grime, which causes your deck to become slippery when wet,’ says Darryl Jeffree, paint buying manager at Homebase. ‘Twice a year (in Spring and Autumn), inspect your deck for any nails that may have come loose, cracks that need filling, paint touch-ups, and for indications of rot or mould.’ Understanding how to clean decking effectively will make the job a lot easier. What kind of paint do I use for decking? Image credit: Future PLC/Caroline Marden There are lots of different outdoor paint ideas and it’s important to make sure the paint you decide on is up to the job. ‘Always choose paint for decking that has been specially designed for decking. It needs to be tough, quick drying, non-slip and offer long lasting weather protection,’ says Marianne. ‘Try Cuprinol Anti Slip Decking stain which comes in 12 colours and is all of the above plus it's water based too, so no horrible smell or harmful solvents for you or the environment to deal with.’ As well as looking good, painting decking also helps to protect the wood. ‘Coatings allow the user to protect the decking from unwanted excess moisture ingress, UV damage (when it goes grey) and protection from the elements while retaining an even colour,’ explains Matthew Brown, technical consultant at Sadolin and Sandtex. How do I remove paint from decking? When repainting decking, it’s important to get the prep right to make sure you have a long lasting finish. ‘If you have applied deck paint in the past, use a scraper to remove the remaining layers,’ advises Christian Roberts, decking expert at MyJobQuote. ‘After that, sand down the decking in the direction of your deck boards. Keep in mind that this will only work for smooth decking boards and not grooved ones.’ What’s the best colour to paint a deck? Today there are a multitude of colours to choose from when it comes to decking paint, the ones below are some that we think make great colour choices. Natural – A colour a similar shade to the wood itself will help the decking to blend in naturally to the surroundings, especially any fencing that hasn’t been painted. Black – For an ultra modern monochrome scheme, black looks really stylish. Alternatively, team with brightly painted garden furniture so it really pops against the dark background. Sage green – Painting decking a shade of green helps to make it blend into the surroundings especially if you have lots of natural planting. Light grey/white – Channel a New England vibe with decking painted in a light shade and add lots of woven furniture and accessories for a relaxed look. Inky blues – They are all the rage when it comes to interiors but this soulful shade works just as well outside especially when paired with metallic accessories and lighting for a Moroccan inspired scheme. The post How to paint decking – a handy step by step guide appeared first on Ideal Home.

This opulent sofa design is surging in popularity, says Argos Posted: 01 Apr 2022 11:00 PM PDT Argos has noted a huge increase in the sales of its black velvet sofa by Habitat, as more and more customers go to the dark side. We all know there’s a lot to consider when shopping for the best sofa for your space – after all, it’s a big investment. And while a black sofa might not be our number one choice, it’ll certainly be able to withstand spillages and biro stains. Could we be seeing a big black velvet sofa trend arriving in our living rooms? Image credit: Argos x Pinterest Black velvet sofa trend Rachael Fell, Habitat Buying Manager, Furniture says that she and her team have seen an increase in sales of dark upholstery recently. ‘Our Habitat Jackson black velvet sofa sales are up 80% in the last year. ‘The Jackson sofa, crafted from soft velvet fabric, is the perfect mix of art deco charm and mid-century modern clean lines,’ she says. The furniture buying expert feels that monochromatic interiors are perfect if you want to create an elegant and sleek look with a touch of drama. ‘Using statement furniture is an easy way to incorporate this trend into the home,’ she says. You can always soften it with black and white striped cushions as they have done here, or zone the sofa on a black and white rug to break things up. Image credit: Argos x Pinterest We wonder if the bold, black rooms we’ve been seeing on interior design shows such as BBC One’s Interior Design Masters and Channel 5’s Dream Home Makeovers with Sophie Robinson are encouraging more people to embrace black living room ideas with more confidence. Paint experts at Crown are also predicting a trend for darker hues, with more of us opting for rich and moody paint for our living spaces. A black sofa would also work well in a home cinema (if you have the space). But trends aside, a black sofa wins on the practicality front and really will hide a multitude of sins. Unlike a black leather sofa which could feel a little bachelor pad, velvet brings an opulent and luxurious feel. Image credit: MY Furniture Prefer something colourful and handy for guests? Our best sofa bed guide has some great options. The post This opulent sofa design is surging in popularity, says Argos appeared first on Ideal Home.

Renovation mortgages explained Posted: 01 Apr 2022 08:00 AM PDT Determined to breathe life into a derelict or uninhabitable property? If you don't have substantial savings to fund your project, you may need a renovation mortgage. Perhaps you've struck lucky and found an empty property in a great location. Or you want to bring a rundown home back to its former glory. Whatever your dream, you can’t rely on a standard mortgage to pay for the work on the property. What is a renovation mortgage? Image credit: Future PLC/Bridget Peirson Most high street lenders only offer mortgages on properties that are considered habitable. So, if you're buying a property not currently fit to live in, you'll need to find a renovation mortgage from a specialist lender. The loan will finance the purchase of a property that's derelict, in need of conversion, or uninhabitable because it's without a working kitchen or bathroom. Standard repayment or interest-only mortgages aren't suitable for extensive renovations. ‘Mortgage lenders want to know that the property would act as adequate security for their mortgage. And that if the worst came to the worst and they had to repossess the home, they would be able to sell the property at its market value,’ explains David Hollingworth, associate director of broker L&C. ‘This isn't the case if the property needs substantial renovation.’ The other important feature of a renovation mortgage is that it enables you to borrow the money you need for the work. You'll receive the money in tranches rather than all upfront. How does a renovation mortgage work? Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore You may get a mortgage of up to 90% of the property's value as it stands, depending on your income and circumstances. You should fund the remainder of the purchase from savings, other assets, or borrowing. The lender usually withholds a chunk of the money, and releases it in stages as the property is renovated. On completion of specific stages, and inspection by the lender's surveyor, you could receive more money. ‘The money being released in stages allows the renovation to receive funding along the way. It also  enables the next step to commence,’ says Hollingworth. ‘Given the importance of the staged payments it will be vital to do some careful budgeting. Be sure that the finance will work and allow the renovation to proceed all the way to completion.’ Bear in mind that the cost of restoring a building will rapidly add up. You need some savings, or other forms of finance such as personal loans, to pay for work between 'stage payments'. Look into reducing the amount of upfront cash you'll need by taking out a specialist renovation insurance policy. This releases stage payments in advance. Will it cost more than a standard repayment mortgage? Yes. A renovation mortgage rate will typically be one or two percentage points higher than a standard mortgage. This is because the risk to lenders is greater. There's no guarantee that the work will be finished. The lender could be forced to repossess the property to recoup their debt. It also depends on how much you borrow. Mark Harris, chief executive of mortgage broker SPF Private Clients, says: ‘As loan-to-values creep up, so do the rates. Not only that but application or product fees are also typically higher, ranging from 1% to 2%. There may also be additional survey costs as lenders require pre- and post-work valuations.’ What kind of properties qualify for a renovation mortgage? Image credit: Future PLC/Tom Meadows You can get a renovation mortgage on a vast range of "fixer-upper" properties. This covers properties from a listed building that's fallen into disrepair to a timber shell without a roof. However, the range of mortgages you have to choose from will be far greater if the property to be renovated is habitable. That means it comes with a working kitchen and bathroom. Where can I get this type of mortgage? There is a limited number of lenders offering finance for complete renovations. Try lenders offering self build mortgages as a starting point. For example Ecology Building Society specialises in lending on energy efficient properties. Smaller building societies are often a good place to try. Speak to a mortgage broker to find out about your options. This is a specialist area of the mortgage market and the solution may need to be imaginative. Working with someone independent who knows the market well is a good move. What happens when the renovation is complete? Once the renovation is complete, you ideally take out a mainstream mortgage on the property. ‘There is usually a clear and distinct two-step process. A refurbishment loan with a specialist lender, before remortgaging to a high street lender for long term finance,’ says Harris. ‘Or, if your plans have changed, and there are no early redemption charges, you may choose to sell and realise their gains on completion.’ The post Renovation mortgages explained appeared first on Ideal Home.

Energy price increases: work out how much your gas and electricity will cost you Posted: 01 Apr 2022 05:57 AM PDT Millions of UK households are facing further energy price increases now that the energy price cap increase is in effect. But analysts are also predicting another sharp rise of 32% in October. You may already know how your bills are changing as of 1 April, but will undoubtedly be worried about another steep increase in October. If you want to see how your energy bills could be affected by a second rise later this year, use our calculator below. The price cap, set by energy regulator Ofgem, is reviewed twice a year and changes are implemented in April and October. It limits how much energy suppliers can charge their customers per kWh of gas and electricity. With the current energy crisis seeing wholesale gas prices skyrocket, the price cap has increased by 54%. Sarah Coles, senior personal finance analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: ‘The global energy price spike started when the economy came back to life last year. As demand for gas increased, we faced lower stock levels and supply problems. We import around 50% of gas, so had to buy it on the international market – where booming demand overwhelmed supply. The wholesale price of gas in January was almost four times higher than in early 2021. We also make a third of our electricity from gas, so it pushed those prices up too.’ The price cap doesn't apply if you are on a fixed rate tariff, or a standard variable green tariff (which Ofgem has excluded from the cap). But the cap will apply to you if you are on a default energy tariff. Check your last energy bill or speak to your supplier if you are unsure what tariff you are on. How will energy price increases affect my monthly bills? So how much will your energy bill rise if the price cap is increased by another 29% in October? Use our calculator to find out. Simply input how much you typically pay per month on your current tariff and we'll show you how your energy bills could be affected. How can I reduce my energy bills? There are usually two main ways to reduce your energy bills – finding a better deal to pay less for the energy you do use, or to use less energy. With the current energy crisis, it is difficult to find cheap deals, so the best way to keep gas and electricity bills low is to focus on reducing your energy usage. Turning your thermostat down a single degree, sealing up any draughts, and swapping older light bulbs for energy-saving alternatives are some easy ways to reduce your energy usage.   The post Energy price increases: work out how much your gas and electricity will cost you appeared first on Ideal Home.

What is the UK energy crisis and why have prices gone up? Posted: 01 Apr 2022 05:30 AM PDT It’s a hot topic of news right now but what is the UK energy crisis and how does it affect our homes? We’re already noticing how the market price of natural gas is playing havoc with our bills. In January 2021 natural gas was around 50p a therm. By October 2021 it was £2.50 a therm before rocketing to £4.50 just before Christmas.  The energy crisis has left households facing steeper gas and electricity bills, with many paying as much as 50% more for energy. This caused Ofgem to raise the energy price cap – that limits what suppliers can charge customers for their gas and electricity – in October 2021 from £1,223 to £1,370. As some suppliers struggled with the price rises –  essentially having to pay more for gas than they were able to charge their customers – almost 30 energy firms have since gone bust. The price cap rose again in February to £1,900 for average users, according to analyst Cornwall Insight. This increase is now in effect. As the cap is reviewed every six months, the price cap will then likely increase again in October 2022 by an estimated 32%. What caused the energy crisis? At the heart of the problem is Britain's increased reliance on imported energy and lack of energy storage.  ‘We import over half the gas we use, so we’re directly and immediately exposed to fluctuations in prices. And, while this is true the world over, in the UK we're short of energy storage facilities at the best of times,’ explains Laura Howard, energy and finance expert at financial guidance and comparison platform Forbes Advisor. Image credit: Future Plc The loss of the Rough energy storage facility off the Yorkshire coast when it closed in 2017 was significant. The Centrica-owned service provided 70% of the UK gas storage capability for more than 30 years.  The continued reduction in supply from Russia is an important factor too. ‘In January this year, Russia provided just 40% of the natural gas they supplied in January 2021. This huge hole in supply has led to consumers across Europe seeking alternatives. This pushes up demand and, naturally, prices,’ explains Kristina Rabecaite, founder of PPAYA, a renewable energy comparison site for small businesses. Can't renewable energy solve the crisis? While countries worldwide are committed to reducing their carbon emissions and investing in renewable energy, it is not yet available in sufficient guaranteed quantities to remove the need for fossil fuels. This move towards renewable energy alternatives led the UK to wind down its tapping of the North Sea reserves for gas on demand. A previous back-up to avoid investing in expensive storage.  ‘Nuclear power remains controversial and hugely expensive in terms of initial and ongoing investment’ explains Howard. ‘It too isn’t ready or able to step up to the plate in terms of supply.’ What does the energy crisis mean for our homes? Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore In addition to rising bills there will be requirements to ‘decarbonise’ our properties by phasing out gas boilers and improving insulation. The government has pledged to ban gas boilers by 2035 with households already being encouraged to install heat pumps, an eco-alternative to heating our homes, with the Boiler Upgrade scheme. The scheme, available from April 2022 offers homeowners upfront payments of £5,000 to install an eco-heat pump. Next time your boiler breaks down, it'll be worth considering this incentive to buy an eco-friendly heat pump. ‘There’ll be grants and incentives to help, but one way or another, energy is going to remain a financial hot potato long into the future,’ says Howard. The post What is the UK energy crisis and why have prices gone up? appeared first on Ideal Home.

Outdoor wall lighting ideas to illuminate your garden to perfection Posted: 01 Apr 2022 04:10 AM PDT Lighting your garden and the exterior of your home can make all the difference when the sun goes down. Making use of outdoor wall lighting ideas means you can illuminate your space without using up any of that precious square footage. All garden lighting ideas make a huge impact in the look and feel of your outdoor space. Additionally, it makes it inviting whatever time of the day – or month of the year (provided you’ve got a cosy jacket!). However, a lot of lighting solution can impact or change your garden ideas. Meanwhile, wall hung options can be as subtle or statement as desired and can play as much or as little a role as you like in your overall garden design. ‘Finding the right lighting is key to creating the right ambience in the evening, while highlighting the gardens key features,’ explains Natalie Mann, product development coordinator, Iconic Lights. ‘It's best to choose lighting that is in keeping with the style and period of the house. Whether traditional or contemporary, the style of lighting should fit seamlessly into the space and complement the surroundings.’ Outdoor wall lighting ideas Whether you are looking for dramatic spotlights, old-school lantern styles or more contemporary designs, there's something for every taste and property. 1. Opt for subtle spotlights Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole Outdoor wall lighting ideas don’t always have to shout about their existence. Simple spotlights can go a long way in creating ambience and adding practical light. Although they can work in just about any garden zone, they’re especially useful to run alongside outdoor dining areas. You can illuminate the zone so guests can see their plates, and then move on to candles to set the mood as the evening progresses. 2. Have fun with festoon lighting Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore Festoon lighting is one of the most popular choices for a reason. It’s easy to set up and looks great whether switched on or off. While they’re often strung on pergolas or trees, hanging along a fence or wall can be very effective for garden or patio lighting ideas. Painting the wall a deep colour will enhance the warm lights of the bulbs even further. 3. Welcome guests with classic good looks Image credit: Future PLC/David Woolley Fewer homes have the traditional double front door light than in the past – and that’s a shame. Not only do they look incredibly inviting, but they’re simply useful for finding your keys, or stepping out on a dark early morning. The double light brings a wonderful sense of symmetry, which is incredibly pleasing to the eye. Enhance this by placing two pots of elegant trees or seasonal flowers underneath. 4. Put a stylish shade on it Image credit: Future PLC/Robert Sanderson Lampshades aren’t just for indoors. Weatherproof shades can add an unexpected hit of style to your outdoor wall lighting ideas. There are no rules for what to opt for – simply go with your style. Natural materials like wood and raffia will add that Mediterranean touch. Alternatively, have moment of urban chic with a fun, patterned design. 5. Hang ad hoc solutions Image credit: Future PLC/Jamie Mason Wall lights don’t necessarily have to be a static addition. Individual lights with hooks, like solar powered bulbs, can be hung as and where needed. So long as you have a few hooks around your garden you can move the lighting around to suit. This is also a great solution for small garden ideas. 6. Give the exterior full exposure Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes Trail matching lights along the entire exterior wall to give the house some much-needed exposure after dark. This renovated and extended Victorian cottage exterior is gently illuminated with the help of a line of matching was lights. The beauty of the brickwork, painted woodwork and climbing plants of the cottage all shine in the evening when the external lights are on. 7. Frame doorways Image credit: Davey Lighting Make a statement with two boxed lanterns mounted outside a doorway. Many of the boxed light designs are reminiscent of traditional railway lanterns, so you can nod back to history while giving your garden a contemporary feel. We love how these sharp and contemporary black box lights contrast to the striking white clapboard exterior. 8. Light gateways and entrances Image credit: Davey Lighting An overhanging light is a striking feature for any outdoor entryway, door or wall. It’s almost essential, especially if there’s a tricky lock or combination to enter after dark. Swan neck designs combine modern design and vintage elegance — whoever said the old and new can’t work well together? 9. Lead the way Image credit: Future PLC/Bridget Peirson Create a seamless flow from indoors to outdoors with the help of wall lighting placed immediately outside of your adjoining living area. The unbroken path of light will help to create a seamless flow for the interior and exterior spaces, ideal if you use the patio for entertaining. Choose designs which reflects the interior decor style to help unify the two areas even further. 10. Look to directional lighting Image credit: Future PLC/Robert Sanderson Make the garden your stage with spotlights. This style of lighting is a great way to add directional lighting to wherever you wish the focus to be. Spotlights can be used to surround a social seating area to shine a focus and set the scene. Equally they can be used to highlight particular architectural and landscape features, which creates depth and adds character to a garden. 11. Mix and match to balance a scheme Image credit: Future PLC/Chris Everard Grouping two lights together not only looks aesthetically pleasing (especially when they are framing features like doorways and windows), but they offer twice the light as well — making your outdoor area even brighter and more atmospheric. Pop them overhead on a patio to lighten up cool summer evenings spent outside, or put them leading up to the entrance of a house, to guide guests to the door. 12. Go smart with solar power Image credit: Cox & Cox Do your bit for the environment and go for garden solar lights, which are a great alternative to the mains powered variety. requires no cabling or mains power, because it’s solar powered. A wall-mounted  solar light illuminates your outdoor space without the need for switches or buttons, with many featuring clever sensors to detect when someone is near. 13. Choose exposed bulbs Image credit: Homebase You've probably seen the trend for exposed bulbs over the past few years, and it’s still going strong. If you want to dip your toe in the design craze there are a number of garden wall lights which offer this urban, stripped-back style. 14. Mount lights beside windows to improve visibility Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson A wall light mounted beside a kitchen window or rear living room will help to throw light onto the view beyond. This not only gives you a glimpse of the garden to be enjoyed by night, especially to appreciate the nocturnal habits of the wildlife you invite into your garden. It also adds a sense of security – being able to see immediately out from the window. 15. Make light go further with a mirror Image credit: Future PLC/David Still Use a well-placed wall light and a garden mirror to make the light travel further, a savvy idea for small garden spaces especially. Where less is more a simple wall light placed above an outdoor mirror will reflect the light, bouncing it further around the space – helping to create a sense of extra light, depth and space. It’s a masterclass in how to make a small garden look bigger. 16. Shield the bulbs to create ambience image credit: Future PLC/Paul Reaside While you want outdoor lighting to help illuminate the space, you might not want the designs to dominate. Especially in a sociable setting, such as garden seating ideas where the lighting works best when more ambient as opposed to bright. For this approach choose wall light designs with concealed bulbs, meaning the light gently cascades  down the wall from around the edges rather than shining directly into an eyeline from the front. 17. Contrast with an industrial style Image credit: Davey Lighting/ @mytinyestate Industrial accents and features have been a hot topic recently, whether it's concrete kitchen floors or black crittall windows. Bring this industrial look into the great outdoors with a garden wall light. It's perfect if you want your garden accessories to contrast to the natural world in your garden. 18. Light the front door with a traditional design Image credit: Wayfair Ensure your front door is not shrouded in darkness, thanks to the help of a characterful outdoor wall light. Newer styles aren't for everyone and if you're a traditionalist at heart, there are a plethora of outdoor wall lights that come in more classic and simple varieties with no fuss — like this traditional garden wall lantern. Or perhaps opt for a ship’s light or clipper style. 19. Take inspiration from lanterns Image credit: Cox & Cox If you have a period property or a country-style house then a lantern light might blend in with your surroundings better than a more modern piece. Buy now: Arched Box Lantern, £150, Cox & Cox 20. Add warmth with a touch of copper Image credit: Garden Trading Warm metallic accents have been hugely popular in the world of interiors over recent years, with finishes such as aged brass and copper dominating. If you love the copper look inside, it's likely you'll adore this style outside too. 21. Keep it simple with fairy lights Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore The may not be ‘wall lights’ in the  typical sense but fairy light ideas do light up walls, so we say it still stands. You don’t need to have a power supply to dress walls with lighting, as this idea proves. Hang strings of fairy lights along fences to add an easy level of ambience. Choosing solar powered lights will make the process even easier because they will charge all day and illuminate come darkness, with zero effort. 22. Add fun to an outdoor entertaining area Image credit: Oliver Perrott/Lights4fun Novelty wall lights aren’t just for the festive season, go for something a little different with a themed wall light. Stand out from the crowd and choose something totally unique — guests won’t be able to take their eyes off it. It’s a perfect example budget garden ideas which pack a punch. How do I choose outdoor wall lights? Lighting is a fundamental part of your outdoor scheme, so it's important to get it right. ‘Typically, garden lights have four main functions that should be considered when choosing your lights,’ explains Natalie Mann from Iconic Lights. ‘The style of design, access and movement around the property, security and night-time usability. Mounted wall lights are a great option as they cater for all four functions.’ ‘It's important to pay attention to the IP rating’ Natalie advises.  This will give an indication to how well protected the fitting is against moisture, dirt and other outdoor elements. Typically IP44 is considered splash proof and is standard for most outdoor wall lights.’ Natalie adds, ‘When shopping for the best security lighting, look out for styles with a built-in motion or PIR sensor. These will activate when motion is detected within a certain range.’ What is an IP rating? ‘IP stands for 'Ingress Protection' and refers to the degree of protection provided against water to its electrical connections’ explains a spokesperson for Davey Lighting. ‘The higher the number, the more watertight the light. Look for a minimum rating of IP43 if the light will be in a covered area, or IP54 if it will be exposed to direct rainfall or jet-washing.’ How high should outdoor wall lights be? As a rule of thumb, outdoor wall lights should be placed between 5.5 and 6ft, any lower and you begin to reduce the amount of space that is illuminated. ‘Aim for the lightbulb to sit just below eye level to decrease the glare,’ adds Natalie. ‘But bear in mind if the lights are not flush to the wall and placed in a thoroughfare area, they need to be high enough that you won't knock your head as you walk past.’ How many lumens do I need for outdoor wall lights? ‘It all depends on the fixture you choose. A prominent floodlight with a higher IP rating is brighter and therefore requires an output between 700-800 lumens,’ Natalie insightfully explains. ‘Smaller wall lights used to highlight design features give off less light and require bulbs that produce around 400 lumens.’ The post Outdoor wall lighting ideas to illuminate your garden to perfection appeared first on Ideal Home.

Concrete kitchen floor ideas – 17 ways to introduce this popular style Posted: 01 Apr 2022 04:00 AM PDT When weighing up kitchen flooring ideas there are a number of things to consider. As well as looks, there’s the cost, installation and maintenance. Concrete differs in its installation from other types of flooring. If you love concrete kitchen floor ideas but have wondered whether it is right for your space, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. ‘Concrete is poured and pumped in on site,’ says Ben Young, Sales Manager, Lazenby concrete floor specialists. ‘This needs to be done before the kitchen is installed and walls are plastered.’ That’s all good if you’re starting with a blank, empty space, but isn’t possible for those who are just updating existing cabinetry with new fronts and worktops. Or kitchens that aren’t on ground level. However, the good news is there are numerous options and many ways to still achieve this popular look. Concrete kitchen floor ideas Poured concrete takes around three days to install and is left protected while it ‘cures’. ‘Any building work, such as the kitchen fitting can be carried out during this time,’ says Ben Young at Lazenby. ‘Once the building works are completed we would return to carry out the final clean, polish and seal, which takes one day.’ However, when this is not possible, concrete tiles, concrete-effect porcelain tiles or luxury vinyl flooring can offer a similar style. ‘Porcelain concrete-effect floor tiles are far more practical and easier to install than poured cement and come in a variety of sizes, styles, and colours,’ says Jo Oliver, Director, The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse. ‘Porcelain tiles are easy to maintain and won't stain, scratch, wear or crack, as can be the case with real concrete floors.’ 1. Combine with rich tones Image credit: Lazenby If you choose a poured concrete floor in your kitchen, consider combining it with rich materials on the cabinetry, lighting and elsewhere. The stark contrast between concrete’s cool urban style and the warmth of dark timber or golden hued metals creates a dramatic effect. Be sure to take your swatches with you when you select your floor as there are a number of shades and finishes available. And expect to pay from around £110 per sq m. ‘We have a broad range of 15 standard colours which feature everything from black to white. We can also create bespoke colours if required,’ says Ben Young from Lazenby. 2. Team tiles with turquoise Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles If poured concrete is too much effort and expense for you, or not possible due to the logistics or location of your property, concrete kitchen floor tiles may be a simpler option. These can be laid like other tiles after your kitchen has been installed. Mixing cool grey slabs with warmer neutrals on door fronts works well. To lift a scheme and prevent it looking drab, add a zingy accent shade, such as turquoise. A small area such as a kitchen splashback is ideal as a bold colour won’t overpower here. You can then repeat the tone elsewhere through furniture or accessories. 3. Extend to the dining area Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles To create a seamless open plan kitchen, it’s better to lay the same flooring throughout. It not only makes a space flow, it feels bigger too, as our eyes don’t carve the floor into smaller areas. So make sure what you pick for your kitchen floor will work in your dining or living area too. In order to connect areas with different functions, such as a kitchen and dining or seating area, repeat colours and materials too. That way it will look more cohesive and feel more comfortable. 4. Choose pale shades Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole One of the reasons, concrete-effect porcelain tiles are a good option is their hard-wearing properties. This means it’s possible to choose the palest of shades without having to worry about them getting stained or damaged. ‘The most popular places to use porcelain floor tiles is often in high traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms,’ says Jo Oliver, Director, The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse. ‘We offer many different shades of concrete-effect tiles, from pale neutral tones to deeper greys and almost black too. Some ranges have a soft subtle concrete look, whereas others emulate an unfinished poured concrete effect for a more industrial style feel.’ 5. Consider a polished finish Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole If you’ve decided on a real concrete floor, consider the colour – and the finish. A warm beige hue with a satin or polished finish will look great paired with oiled timber and matt white materials on the cabinetry. The flecks in the flooring add character and movement, while its soft sheen subtly reflects light.  ‘Whichever of the finishes you choose, the maintenance required is consistent,’ says Ben Young. 6. Add warmth to crisp white Image credit: Future PLC/James French White cabinets and worktops are still a popular choice for kitchens as this combo looks clean and fresh. But white can look a little cold and sterile, if you’re not careful. A great way to avoid this is with your flooring choice. If you’re keen to recreate the look of concrete kitchen floor ideas, opt for concrete-effect tiles. This is a great option for modern kitchen flooring. Go for warm beige tones rather than cool grey. Choosing this for the floor, will ground your scheme with warmth and make it feel welcoming, rather than austere. 7. Mix with metallics Image credit: Ledbury Studio Concrete is a versatile option that works with many colours and materials, so it’s a great foundation for a kitchen scheme. Here it looks beautiful mixed with aged, hand-finished solid zinc doors on the cabinetry and concrete-look Caesarstone worktops. ‘The beauty of concrete is that it's a blank canvas that can be coloured to match any scheme,’ says Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio. ‘Because it’s a hardwearing and low-maintenance material, concrete is unbeatable in high-traffic areas like a family kitchen. ‘Having said that, it is a contemporary finish better suited to a modern kitchen scheme rather than a traditional one. For such a finish, concrete works really well with natural materials such as wood, as well as rich, burnished metallics.’  8. Contrast with bold red cabinets Image credit: Future PLC/Richard Gadsby Create a contemporary fire and ice combo with a bright red finish on your kitchen units and an ice grey concrete floor. Stainless steel worktops and splashbacks will also provide a cool counterbalance to the bold colour. You will need to consider how you will heat your contemporary kitchen. This should be decided at the early design stage when calculating how much a new kitchen costs. For a consistently clean and unfussy look, underfloor heating is a good option. ‘Concrete works really well with underfloor heating systems, as it warms up quickly and then retains that heat,’ says Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio. ‘Be sure to budget for underfloor heating alongside your concrete flooring.’ 9. Ground with slate grey Image credit: Walls and Floors Another benefit with concrete-effect porcelain floor tiles, besides the easier installation, is the cost. At around £20-30 per square metre, depending where you buy them from, porcelain tiles are considerably cheaper than poured concrete. This cost saving means you could stretch your budget much further on other items if you need or prefer to. 10. Team with terrazzo Image credit: Walls and Floors A neutral base, such as concrete-effect floor tiles, will allow other materials and colours to shine. Terrazzo (or one of its lookalikes) is a fantastic material to team with it, especially for worktops and splashbacks. Firstly, you can opt for a similar base tone to your flooring, and secondly, you can select a terrazzo with chips that coordinate with your choice of cabinetry colour. This will really pull the room together, especially if you pull out any accent tones from the terrazzo and repeat them in your furniture or accessories. 11. Continue your floor outside Image credit: Walls and Floors Creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection is something many strive for. If you have large glass doors, a good way to achieve this is by repeating some of the materials used in your interior on an outdoor living space, such as the flooring. By doing this your eyes see it as one continual space rather than separate areas. ‘Many porcelain tiles are available in anti-slip finishes suitable for outdoor use,’ says Jo Oliver, Director, The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse. ‘This makes them the perfect solution for those wanting to create a continuous flow from inside the home out into the garden.’ Be mindful that your exterior also needs to blend with nature outside. We feel better when we look at greenery and it provides a home for the natural world too, so include plenty of living plants and shrubs too. 12. Go for gloss Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole When we think of concrete or its lookalikes we tend to associate it with the matt surfaces we see outside on paving slabs. That gritty urban look is a popular finish. Yet it’s possible to choose a highly polished gloss surface too. This gives concrete’s industrial style a far slicker edge. ‘Also by choosing large scale or super-sized tiles means there are fewer grout lines to contend with, which creates a seamless, high-end finish,’ says Jo Oliver, Director, The Stone & Ceramic Warehouse. 13. Insulate with LVT underfoot Image credit: Lifestyle Floors There are more alternatives to poured concrete than porcelain or concrete tiles. Luxury vinyl flooring is another way to achieve a similar look – and it comes with its own bonuses. ‘LVT as a material is much warmer underfoot than traditional concrete,’ says Inga Morris-Blincoe, General Manager at Lifestyle Floors. ‘LVT also has a high TOG rating, meaning it provides insulation between the (cold) subfloor and your room, which could lead to a more comfortable room, as well as reduced heating costs.’ Be aware, as with tiles, a smooth and damp-free subfloor is required before LVT can be fitted. 14. Add interest with different sized tiles Image credit: Amtico For a less uniform style, create an interesting laying pattern with different sized LVT tiles or planks. ‘We’re noticing more fluidity in stone and concrete LVT flooring designs,’ says Lorna Williams, Head of Product Design, Amtico. ‘Flooring patterns can completely change the look of a room. And people are looking to use concrete in a playful way, for example pairing different kinds or sizes.’ 15. Enhance industrial style with bare brick Image credit: Zulufish / Lazenby If you had the impression polished concrete flooring would look cold or bare think again. In this modern kitchen by interior design company, Zulufish, concrete has been teamed with a vast exposed brick wall and the result is spectacular. The honey tones of the bricks add warmth to the monochrome scheme with its matt charcoal cabinets and white marble worktops. On the other side of the room, stylish timber pendants over the dining table echo the warm tones of the wall. 16. Coordinate with your walls Image credit: Topps Tiles In the kitchen there is a tendency to use smaller and different tiles on the walls. Yet replicating the same sized concrete-style tiles on both the floors and walls looks highly effective, especially in a small kitchen. Especially, when laid in an opposing brick pattern shown here. Not only does this laying pattern enhance the width of the room in different directions, it offers a fresh modern style. 17. Select super-sized sustainable tiles Image credit: Walls and Floors These super-sized tiles have a raw, industrial feel that emulates the look of concrete and salvaged metals, with details in their appearance that resemble abrasions and oxidisation. The various shades of carbon grey combine with metallic rust-browns to create a mottled look with plenty of character. Ideal for modern rustic or industrial-style schemes, the tiles are made with 90% recycled materials too. With the real need to shop sustainably, these tiles offer a unique look and a more eco-friendly choice. How do you lay a concrete floor? The concrete is poured and pumped in on site. ‘This needs to be done before the kitchen is installed and walls are plastered,’ says Ben Young at concrete floor specialists, Lazenby. ‘The kitchen can be installed on top of the concrete floor. The electrics and plumbing need to have services coming up through the concrete exactly the same as if you were installing a typical screed.’ How long do concrete floors last? Concrete floors last for decades. There’s a good reason why they’re chosen for large public spaces such as art galleries or schools – they’re hard-wearing and highly durable. Plus any cracks that may develop over time can be repaired. Are concrete floors easy to clean? Yes, just make sure any spills are wiped up as soon as possible and avoid general household cleaning products, as they are often too harsh. Sweep or vacuum the floors and mop with warm water and the recommended detergent.  ‘The key thing to remember with a concrete floor is to use a PH neutral cleaner and nothing bleach based,’ says Ben Young, Lazenby.   The post Concrete kitchen floor ideas – 17 ways to introduce this popular style appeared first on Ideal Home.

10 modern bathroom tile ideas to inspire your next project Posted: 01 Apr 2022 12:00 AM PDT The possibilities are endless when it comes to modern bathroom tile ideas. Not only do tiles come in every shape, pattern and colour under the sun. There's also on-trend laying patterns and the latest tile materials to consider too. Whilst monochrome schemes always have contemporary appeal, bathroom tile ideas don't need to be limited to a pared-back colour palette. Some of the best ideas take inspiration from the catwalk. On-trend pastel shades, bold geometrics and heavy floral designs can really give your bathroom the wow factor. And you don’t have to stop at colour and pattern! Nowadays the choice of material has become even greater. Ceramic and porcelain have been accompanied by modern alternatives like terrazzo, concrete, resin and encaustic. Modern Bathroom tile ideas Whether you're updating your existing bathroom suite or starting from scratch, there's plenty of ways to add contemporary style to your look. Our top ten modern bathroom tile ideas will get you started… 1. Arrange tiles in a chevron formation Image credit: Future PLC/Ryan Wicks 'Metro tiles are a timeless choice for bathrooms, but if you're looking to add a modern twist to this classic look, consider is the layout of the tiles. Rather than the standard brick layout, why not try the trendy herringbone design?' says Louisa Swannell, Head of Creative Design at Walls and Floors. In this modern monochrome bathroom, the chevron splashback adds a focal point to the room and a 'floating' style basin gives the illusion of more space. 2. Create a spa scheme with marble Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme A luxury spa bathroom might not be a new idea, but a modern way to get the look is with stone-effect tiles and matt black sanitaryware. 'Marble effect tiles work particularly well for spa style bathrooms especially when installed on both the floor and walls.' says Colin Lincoln-Evans, Buyer at Tile Mountain. 'They offer a timeless air of natural glamour without being overpowering. And they’re generally available in a choice of gloss, polished and matt finishes to suit personal choice.' There are lots of tiles now on the market that replicate natural materials, such as marble, whilst also being less costly and needing far less maintenance than the real thing. 3. Go for a tonal look Image credit: Future PLC/Jake Fitzjones Metro tiles aren’t a new modern bathroom idea – in fact, they've been around for years. But give them a smart, modern twist by opting for tiles, furniture and accessories all in the same colour, such as chic grey. This creates a look that wins points for feeling both modern and timeless all at once. It’s also really versatile. Change up bathroom accessories or replace the knobs on the vanity unit to give the bathroom a whole new feel. 4. Create a focal point with square tiles Image credit: Original Style Square format tiles don't need to be boring! Arrange different coloured ones in your very own pattern for a unique and modern result. Make sure to practice first by drawing out the design on paper before deciding on your final layout to avoid any expensive mistakes. 'While stone-effect, large-format tiles are still popular, we're also seeing a number of installations that feature square, glossy glazed field tiles in muted, pastel tones' says Emma Hughes, Studio Manager at Original Style. 'Pair with simple fixtures and natural tones for a chic and contemporary look.' 5. Use brickwork for an industrial twist Image credit: Future PLC A gorgeous copper standalone bath, geometric floor tiles and exposed brick all work together here to create a modern, industrial style bathroom. And the best news is that you don't need original brick walls in place, or even build new walls to get the look. Brick slips- tiles made to look like bricks – achieve the style with barely any of the fuss or expense. Adding geometric tiles on the floor gives the whole space a contemporary edge. The pattern adds an extra level of interest and the smooth finish contrasts with the rough bricks. 6. Opt for modern terrazzo Image credit: Walls and Floors We're smitten with the terrazzo trend. It's perfect for adding modern pattern, colour and texture to a bathroom. But take note! The real material can be expensive, slippery and requires sealing so it's worth considering a terrazzo-effect tile as an alternative. Simple square format tiles are easy to install yourself. But if you’re not a confident DIYer and prefer to get someone in, make sure to factor the extra cost of tiling into your budget. 7. Zone an area with tiles Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole In this dark and dramatic bathroom, contrast is key. The room has been painted black to match the star-print floor tiles and large Carrara marble tiles have created an inviting and luxurious walk-in shower area. Shower tile ideas aren't limited to marble though, modern mosaics or brightly coloured designs would create a focal point, too. 8. Add super stripes Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole Make a real statement by running bold vertical stripes from the top to bottom of your room. Using tiles in this way is perfect for wet rooms or small bathrooms as it can create the illusion of more space. 9. Add modern mint Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles Mint might not seem like an obvious colour for your modern bathroom, but it’s actually very on-trend right now. It’s easy to see why as the colour creates a warm yet fresh look. It’s also a great option for bringing a sense of the outdoors inside – perfect for a fresh feeling room. 10. Mix and match patterns Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles Geometric prints are bang on trend right now, and if you opt for a simple colour palette – like this grey and black scheme – you can combine different patterns that still work together harmoniously. Adding pattern to floors, rather than walls, gives the illusion of a bigger room as they appear to 'stretch' the space. Keep the rest of the bathroom neutral to allow the floor tiles to be the focus. What are the latest bathroom tiles? 'This year, we're seeing homeowners embrace the nature-nostalgia tile trend in their bathroom interiors' says Emma Hughes, Studio Manager at Original Style. 'This trend embraces a simpler lifestyle that is harmonious with nature but with a contemporary edge through the use of gentle, pastel hues.' Other bathroom tile trends that are hot right now include chequerboard designs and hexagon shapes. How can you update bathroom tiles without replacing them? Coloured grout lines can give white bathroom tiles a brand new, modern look without too much hard work. And there's even grout pens too, which simply draw over existing lines for instant results. If your tiles themselves look dated, you could change their colour with tile paint or add pattern with vinyl tile stickers. How do you update a bathroom with beige tiles? Give a beige bathroom a dramatic refresh by teaming it with deep green or smokey aubergine shades. Add your accent colour by painting woodwork, a feature wall or the ceiling. Or keep it even simpler with a set of new towels. Brass or mirrored accessories will give this smart colour scheme a glam finish. The post 10 modern bathroom tile ideas to inspire your next project appeared first on Ideal Home.

Kelly Hoppen exclusively shares her secret to styling a small bathroom on an even smaller budget Posted: 31 Mar 2022 11:00 PM PDT Kelly Hoppen has exclusively shared her small bathroom styling secret, and it’s suitable even for the tiniest of budgets. We spoke to the interior designer as part of her work with luxury home and hotel accessories retailers SV Casa. Coming up with small bathroom ideas that feel luxurious and relaxing certainly poses some challenges. The queen of taupe tells us that when you’re tight on square footage and spending money, it’s all about creating one clear, focal point. …And accessorising with high-quality decor pieces – yay! Image credit: SV Casa Kelly Hoppen’s small bathroom styling secret ‘The best thing I can recommend is keeping the room as simple as possible using low-level lighting and focusing on either the shower or bath as the central feature,’ Kelly Hoppen advises. ‘Downlights and patterns are a big no as they shrink a space – remember, simplicity is key. ‘Mirrors are also great additions that can open up the room and create an illusion of a larger room,’ says Kelly. If you want to add a touch of luxe, the interiors guru recommends investing in a few high-quality smaller accessories. For example, a sleek soap holder and toothbrush holder in natural materials will bring a classic chic feel, she explains. You could opt for wood, stone, fluted glass or subtle terrazzo soap dispensers and toothbrush holders to match your bathroom colour scheme. Image credit: SV Casa We’re loving The Mist collection of bathroom accessories from SV Casa pictured above with its curved edges and monochrome design. Small touches like these go a long way. To purchase, please visit LuxDeco which is exclusively launching the Kelly Hoppen SV Casa range in the UK. A couple of small, functional accessories will keep things neat and hopefully make you want to spend more time in the bathroom. Relatively small bathrooms without any windows just need a bit of extra love to turn them into a place we look forward to unwinding in. Kelly’s comment on lighting is also worth noting. Low, LED strip lighting may create a feeling of more height. As much as we love a fun and colourful bathmat, storage baskets and faux greenery, we’re going to be following Kelly’s advice and keep things that bit more minimalist. The post Kelly Hoppen exclusively shares her secret to styling a small bathroom on an even smaller budget appeared first on Ideal Home.

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