2022-03-01 Ideal Home

The Dawn
collection
starts from
just £1/€1.50

Spring is in the air! With longer Canvas wall Circular wall
days, warmer weather and a art, £3.50/€4; piece, £3.50/€4
brighter mood all round, now’s the Jacquard throw,
perfect time to hit refresh. As Primark’s £12/€14; Sage
new season collections arrive, take floral duvet,
inspiration from softer spring focused from £9/€11
colour palettes, pretty patterns and
relaxed country style to give your home Floral ceramic
a fresh new look. jug, £9/€10

WORDS LISA FAZZANI NEW SPRING COLLECTIONS Sunflower
cushion, £7/€8
Find the must-have buys and on trend
essentials you’ll need to get your home FIND OUT MORE
spring-ready this season at Primark.
The new Dawn collection taps into the See all the latest spring homeware and furniture in store at Primark
‘Cottagecore’ lifestyle trend that we’re now, including the new Dawn collection.
all loving right now, with its relaxed
colour palette, country patterns and Catch up with us on Instagram @Primark.Home and on the Primark
handcrafted pieces. Cheery ginghams Home Pinterest page pinterest.co.uk/Primark/home/#PrimarkHome
and playful florals sit alongside hand
drawn botanicals and crafted textiles
in pastel pinks, sage greens and soft
yellows. The range includes bedding,
soft furnishings, ceramics and kitchen
ware, so there’s something for every
room in a complementary palette.

ENJOY ONE-STOP SHOPPING

While it’s long been the destination for
on-trend fashion buys, Primark is
expanding its home and lifestyle range
with stylish and super-affordable new
accessories, soft furnishings and
furniture pieces. With brilliant
homewares and furniture all under one
roof, Primark Home really is the new
one-stop shopping destination.

101MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IDEAtLrHenOdinMgEon.C…O.UK

The best mortgage Small kitchen
rates and how to ideas: 35 ways
find them
to make the
Secure a deal on one of life’s most of a
biggest financial investments.
compact space
How to save
energy Whatever shape or size,
at home your kitchen is the heart of
the home, so it’s imperative
Worried about
soaring fuel prices? to create a scheme that
We’ve got 24 energy- you love spending time in.
saving tips plus expert We’ve rounded up the best
advice to help lower
gas and electricity bills small kitchen ideas and
creative solutions that will
and save you help you to make the most
precious cash. of even the tiniest room.

Perfect paint for “Find brilliant ideas for every
kitchen cabinets room, plus a wealth of expert
”property advice
Whether your kitchen HEATHER YOUNG, EDITOR
needs a quick overhaul
while you save up for a Natural cleaning
new one, or you just fancy a hacks and
makeover, these are the
best paints for kitchen units. genius remedies

From using lemons to other store
cupboard essentials, we share

favourite ideas to get your home
sparkling without a single chemical.

CONNECT WITH US FOR MORE GREAT IDEAS

SEARCH BROWSE PIN FOLLOW
idealhome.co.uk @idealhomeuk idealhomemag @IdealHome

102MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

| EASY STYLE UPDATES |

Weekend
decorator

WE ROUND UP THE SIMPLEST,

QUICKEST WAYS TO MAKE YOUR

HOME MORE BEAUTIFUL NOW

Riviera extending HOW TO
dining table, £1,495;
side chairs, £399 each, ADD PATTERN
all Furniture Village TO YOUR WALLS

If you have high ceilings you might want
to add pattern to the bottom half of
your walls, leaving the top half white.

Q Choose a daring, exciting design as
you are only papering part of the wall.
Q Work in thirds, so either paper one
third up your wall or two. Using a pencil,
spirit level and ruler, draw a horizontal
plumb line from one side to the other.
Q Paper from the floor (or the top of the
skirting boards) to the plumb line.
Q Attach a length of dado moulding, or
just a simple strip of wood, painted in the
same shade as the top part of your walls,
to neatly edge your wallpaper.

103MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

Restore in Midnight
wallpaper, £65 a roll,

Graham & Brown

STYLE TIP

Use a slim piece of
leftover worktop to create
a floating shelf that can be

hung across the middle
of the wall, to break up

the pattern of the
paper slightly

2 WALLPAPERS W E LOVE WOW WITH
WALLPAPER IN
3 A KITCHEN
1
Forgo a classic tiled splashback
or a bland painted wall in the
kitchen, and instead embrace an
eye-catching design and plump for
wallpaper. Most papers are easy
to clean with a damp cloth but if
papering behind a sink, it’s a good
idea to add a transparent splashback
over the top to protect it.

WALLPAPERS TO WOW
1 Cow Parsley wallpaper in Mineral, £130 a roll, Stil Haven range, Lime Lace
2 Superfresco Easy Palm Leaves wallpaper in Green, £17 a roll, Wilko
3 Jasmine BP3903 wallpaper, £115 a roll, Farrow & Ball

104MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

3Turn a D E C O R AT I N G
statement
tea towel into an Kelda wallpaper in Pebble,
artwork by using £47 a roll, Scion
a poster hanger
to display it.

4 GIVE AN OLD
DESK A NEW LOOK
Create a more
inspiring WFH spot and
give a tired wooden desk
or console table a fresh
look with a lick of paint.
Opt to use a chalk paint,
which will not only save
you from having to prime
the desk first, but will
create a wonderfully rich
finish, especially when
using a punchy shade of
blue like this one.

1

HOUR

HOW TO

PAINT A SCALLOPED
WALL FEATURE
lively energy back into a ■ Neatly cut out your template, then
Larsson desk in Teal, scalloped wall feature. It decide how far up or down the wall you
£660, Neptune. Cote is actually super speedy to do, too, want the scallops to be positioned.
making it perfect for a kid’s room. Using a ruler, spirit level and a pencil,
d’Azur wallpaper in ■ Start by painting your walls draw a horizontal line to create the
Cuivre, £90 a roll, in your chosen background colour. section that needs to be painted, and
Manuel Canovas at If your walls are papered, you can paint using your chosen shade.
skip this step. ■ Once dry, place your scallop template
Colefax and Fowler ■ Make your scallop template by either just below this section or just
drawing around half a plate onto a above, use masking tape to hold in place
thin piece of cardboard, such as and draw around them. Repeat all the
part of an empty cereal box. Draw at way along the wall and then paint in with
least three scallops in a row. a small paintbrush.

105MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

CREATE CURVES IN A DRESSING ROOM

Paint an arched panel to create a look-at-me feature in a room where
there isn’t a natural focal point or the walls are devoid of character.
arch helps to emphasise the shape of the round wall mirror, adds visual
d zones the space as a cosy vanity area.

Arch in Warm Sand matt
emulsion, £16 for 2.5ltr;
Delphi Black dressing

table, £129; Octavia chair,
£269; round Gold mirror,

£59, all Dunelm

Mini Prep Pro, £50; 1
traditional kettle, £65;
two-slice toaster, £60, HOUR
all Cuisinart

8 REFRESH
YOUR KITCHEN
WITH TOUCHES
OF WARM BRASS
Add a little luxe to your
kitchen cupboards and
freshen them up by
replacing the knobs, pulls
and latches with smart
brass designs. It’s much
easier (and cost effective)
to update the smaller items
and accessories, so even
replacing an old tap with a
new brass version will go
a long way to giving your
kitchen a brand-new look.

7 Swap out thick-lined, thermal curtains
hung over doors and windows and
replace with lighter linen ones for spring.

106MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

CREATE A D E C O R AT I N G
GALLERY
WALL Ragazzo rug in
WITH NEAT Light Grey, from
PICTURE LEDGES
£89, Ruggable
If artwork hung on the wall feels a
little too permanent for you, try
creating a gallery wall using picture
ledges instead. This way, you can
have fun arranging and rearranging
your framed prints, postcards, books
and accessories as often as you like,
playing with their positioning and
adding new pieces whenever it suits.
Paint the ledges the same colour as
the wall behind so they don’t distract
from the artwork displayed on them.

COLOUR CHEA1T SHEET

2 3

COLOUR CHEAT SHEET
1 Hidey-Hole claypaint, £47 for 2.5ltr, Earthborn 2 Pink 05 matt emulsion, £38 for 2.5ltr, Lick
3 Warm Eucalyptus V700 wall and ceiling matt emulsion, £31 for 2.5ltr, Valspar at B&Q

107MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

TILE A Chimney tiles, €2.80
CHIMNEY each, Emery et Cie
BREAST

Often a
een as the spot
per or paint
colour, but tiling it instead will
add real wow-factor to your
interior. Choose a tile with a rustic,
uneven surface, in complementing
shades, to create a more rough
and ready appearance. Anything
too neat and tidy could look a little
bland and bathroom-like – and
don’t leave too much space for
grouting between each tile, but
butt them up against each other.

STYLE TIP

Rather than tile the back
of the opening where a
real fire would be, leave
the bare bricks as they
are to create a feature
and pop a plant inside

108MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

D E C O R AT I N G

11 HIGHLIGHT GREAT FEATURES
A painted border will draw attention to
period door frames and deep skirting
boards. Measure a border 8-10cm from the edge
of the door and skirting and use masking tape to
create a straight line. If your wall is painted a
colour, do the border in a deeper shade.

Zena bar stools, £139
each; Abstract prints, £25

set of two; Curves Gold
canister, £10; utensil pot,

£11, all Dunelm

Wall in Hidey Hole;
border in Pall Mall,
both absolute matt
emulsion, £48.50 for
2.5ltr, Little Greene
Black Granite worktop;
Grey Granite worktop,
both laminate, £88 for
3m, Worktop Express

12 HOWTOFEATURE HOLLY WALSH PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM13 Give your bathroom
BUILD A a mini refresh by
BREAKFAST BAR swapping out tired towels for
You don’t need to have space for a whole a colourful new patterned set.
kitchen island in order to have a breakfast bar;
an alcove can provide the perfect spot instead.
■ Start by measuring the width and depth of the
alcove to see what size you need. It doesn’t need
to be that deep, just enough to get a stool under.
■ If you have any offcuts from your kitchen’s
worktop, use this. Otherwise secondhand sites
like Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace and eBay
often have bargains which can be cut to size.
■ Once you’ve decided how high you want your
breakfast bar to be, attach slim battens of wood
to the wall behind and at the sides, for the
worktop to sit on, using rawlplugs and screws.
■ Once your worktop has been set in place,
secure to the wood below with more screws and
then dress your bar accordingly. Finish with
a couple of bar stools and hey presto!

109MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

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renovation
IMPROVE | EXTEND | CONVERT
2022
Kitchen
Special
◆ TRENDS (THAT WON'T DATE)
◆ LAYOUT TIPS ◆ REAL
MAKEOVERS ◆ CLUTTER-
BUSTING TRICKS

“Don’t settle! DEMAND more

from your SPACE, and turn an
awkward and unloved area

”into something AMAZING
HEATHER YOUNG, EDITOR

113MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

THINK PRACTICALLY

‘When it comes to flooring, it’s
important for a space to look
great and function well, too,’

says Natalie. Tegola Elite Click
Tile luxury vinyl in Copper,
£44.99sq m, Carpetright

| PLAN THE PERFECT |

Kitchen upgrade

LOOKING TO UPDATE YOUR KITCHEN IN 2022?
WE ASKED THE EXPERTS TO SHARE THEIR INSIDER TIPS

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

KEY INGREDIENT

The pantry has become
a feature that’s made
for showing off.
Hoxton kitchen in

Metallic Midnight, from
£3,600, Magnet

MEET THE
EXPERTS

ROD GASKELL,
DESIGNER AND OWNER
OF KÜTCHENHAUS,
RAINHAM, KENT

‘Kitchen design is fun
and satisfying when
you design rather than
just filling a space.’

MIKE TURLEY,
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR,
MEREWAY KITCHENS

‘I get excited about the
emerging colours and
textures, providing that
new take on enduringly
popular designs.’

NATALIE HOLDEN,
DIRECTOR, NATALIE HOLDEN
INTERIORS

‘I love the unexpected
in a kitchen – like wall
panelling concealing
a door to a utility.’

P lanning a new kitchen this year? earthier finishes coming through, reflecting our
We’ve done the research for you concentration on nature and the environment.
and chatted to three experts – two
from kitchen brands, one an ‘Storage seems to be focusing on the practical
rather than clever gizmos,’ adds Rod. ‘Customers
interior designer – to help you want large easy access storage, such as pan drawers
in islands and big opening larder units.’ Natalie says,
create a kitchen that’s on trend ‘We’re being asked to maximise storage. One project
recently had a compact floor space, but really high
and right for you for many years to come. ceilings, so we designed one tall wall of storage, with
integrated fridge freezer, butler’s pantry and pull-out
START WITH CABINETRY larder.’ Mike says open units for things like books are
common, helping to keep worksurfaces clutter-free.
Handleless or classic Shaker remain the popular
choices, but it seems we are embracing more colour. PAIR PRACTICAL WITH BEAUTIFUL
‘Of course, people want practicality, with matt doors
in an anti fingerprint finish highly desirable – but When it comes to worksurface material, Natalie says
we’ve added a blue and green to our range for 2022,’ they tend to specify quartz. ‘It’s extremely durable
Rod explains. Natalie says, ‘Right now, many of our and easy to clean and maintain. Our suppliers have
clients are keen to introduce bolder and darker an amazing selection of colours, some of which look
shades through their cabinetry, such as teal blue, like real marble,’ she explains. Of course, it depends
forest green and anthracite grey.’ on budget. ‘Discussing contrast is a great starting
point when planning a kitchen,’ says Rod, ‘such as
It seems we are paying lots of attention to handles light doors with a dark worksurface or vice versa.
too, and warmer metallics are a popular choice for
many right now, which is not surprising as they are But worksurface choice is about how hardwearing,
great for teaming with blue or green units. Stone heatproof and stain resistant it is. Those on a budget
effect doors are also a sought after feature, as Rod
explains: ‘We might see more new sandstone or

115MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

NORDIC CHIC

Scandi-influenced
kitchens echo our

love of natural
materials. Nordic
Nature kitchen, from

£5,388, Magnet

“People want VALUE for money and REASSURAN
that internal fittings will stand the TEST of tim
ROD GASKELL, KÜTCHENHAUS

SPACE SAVER can look at combining a wood-effect laminate for
main kitchen with a stone for an island.’ Mike like
‘We always try to make see cabinetry, doors and worktops matching: ‘It g
full use of a room’s streamlined look,’ he says. Natalie says there are more
height,’ says Natalie. sustainable options, too. ‘One of our suppliers makes
Arbor kitchen, from worktops from recycled brick rubble and concrete, and
£25,000, Harvey Jones another, Cosentino, uses a new technology, Hybriq,
combining recycled glass content, 100% renewable
energy and 98% recycled water in its factory.’

GOING FOR GRAIN

For flooring, wood – real or not – remains popular.
‘Wood-effect is the easy-to-clean and easy-to-maintain
option,’ says Mike. ‘Laid in a herringbone pattern, it’s
great for open-plan kitchen extensions that have lots of
natural light streaming in,’ says Natalie, ‘as it brings a
sense of warmth and texture to the space, yet doesn’t
fade in sunlight, and is very easy to clean.’ Another
practicality in today’s kitchen is the utility room. ‘Most
of our projects have these,’ says Natalie, ‘particularly
open-plan kitchens. A utility space provides somewhere
you can shut things away, such as washing and coats.’

‘A pantry is also a lovely addition, especially if you
have the space for open shelving floor-to-ceiling,’ says
Rod. ‘They allow you to make great use of multi-buy
deals on non-perishables.’ Mike agrees, saying, ‘If

IN THE ZONE NEED TO KNOW…

Open shelving for books, Marble
varied worktops and zoned surfaces
flooring make this a cool
kitchen. Fitted kitchen, Natalie Holden, director, Natalie
from £30,000, in Azure Holden Interiors (natalieholden.
Green by Little Greene,
price on request, Neptune com) shares her expertise
at Woods of London
n Marble is so versatile – it suits both
traditional and contemporary kitchens.

It’s natural so each slab has a unique
veining – hand-select from a

stonemason if you can, as pattern and
colour will vary between each piece.

n Marble is expensive, but you can get
the look with composites that are also

non-porous. Think about using a
lower-priced worksurface in your utility
room or area, leaving more budget to

splash out on marble in the kitchen.

n To really work a marble look, take it
from the worksurface and use up the
walls as a splashback, or go down to the

floor on the sides of an island.

117MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

PENDANT POWER

‘Lighting makes me really
excited, as I’m drawn
towards uniquely-shaped
lights,’ says Natalie.
Rossio pendants, £98
each, Iconic Lights

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

COOL FINISH

‘Teal, green and blue
cabinet colours are very in
vogue,’ says Mike. Cucina
Colore Lastra units painted

in Ideal Home Teal Mist
with brass and shell

handles. Prices start from
£15,000, Mereway

FEATURE JENNIFER MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHS BRENT DARBY/FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM Utility rooms are A SIGN that today’s KITCHEN
has become much more of a LIVING SPACE

“ "MIKE TURLEY, MEREWAY KITCHENS
space allows, it’s great to be able to go for a modern soon be everywhere, not just the kitchen.’ Natalie
take on the stylish pantries of post-war years.’ says, ‘I love layering up wall lights, recessed
strip lighting and statement pendants into a space
STYLE YOUR SINK to add drama and a cosy atmosphere.’

‘When it comes to sinks, large bowls are popular,’ WORK YOUR SPACE
says Rod. ‘For colour and finish, granite and steel
sinks are in demand – even copper and gold effects.’ ‘Open-plan areas are still desired in larger
‘Brass taps are all the rage,’ says Natalie, ‘yet other properties,’ says Natalie, ‘but in smaller homes, we
appliances and fittings haven’t quite caught up with are seeing more broken-plan solutions, where each
this trend, so it can be a challenge to find matching space has a different purpose throughout the day.
fittings.’ Rod agree: ‘While black taps are a favourite, Think of two or three rooms that have the option to
and gold a contender, we find they are always chosen be opened up with sliding doors when you want to
to match other items that are decided on first.’ entertain but exist as a kitchen or separate workspace
when needed.’ Rod adds, ‘I think the kitchen is
GET THE LIGHT RIGHT becoming larger than ever. Double island units allow
ease of movement around the kitchen, with different-
When it comes to lighting, Rod says it’s all about height worktops and seating areas introduced to keep
increased connectivity. ‘Connected homes, with all the family – and visitors – happy.’ n
mood-controlled lighting like Philips Hue lights, will

119MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK



IH KITCHEN SPECIAL PROJECT
DETAILS
KITCHEN PROJECT
WHO LIVES HERE
New position,
bespoke style Gina Wade lives here with her
husband Carl and their twins,
RELOCATING THEIR KITCHEN MEANT
GINA AND CARL WADE COULD HAVE Sophie and Calum, 14.
A CUSTOMISED DESIGN IN A BIGGER
SPACE TO MEET THEIR FAMILY’S NEEDS THE PROJECT

Kitchen installed in a former
reception room, in a detached

period house in
West Yorkshire.

TOTAL COST
£80,067

BEFORE ‘I wanted an eating area,
but not just a standard

dining table. The circular
booth was a great solution

as it’s relaxed and easily
accessible for Sophie.’
Gris Fleury Bianco
floor tiles, £66.99sq m,
Tiles and Mosaics

121MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

EXTRA SEATING

The large island
provides space for
plenty of additional

relaxed seating

THE PROBLEM THE SOLUTION kitchen is where we all to achieve. We chose
spend the most time, so we classic, painted cabinetry,
The existing ‘We chose this house for decided to relocate it to an Aga, and a big, central
kitchen was its space and potential for the large sitting room. island with a built-in, circular
dark, old- modern, open-plan living, I wanted a light, bright dining area. It’s a very large
fashioned and as our daughter Sophie is kitchen, with a modern room but the layout is so
in the wrong a wheelchair user. It was feel, but it also had to be well thought through. I love
position. in good condition, just in keeping with the house. how light it is now, and the
extremely old-fashioned, Designer Andrea Hobson at different elements work
with a small kitchen at one local company Drew Forsyth together so well. It’s the
side of the building. The understood what we wanted best thing we ever did.’

122MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

FOCUS ON

Quartz worktops

Top things off with this elegant, practical and
long-lasting choice of work surface

n Quartz tops are made n As quartz is man made,
from a blend of ground- there’s an extensive range
up quartz, polymer resin of colours and finishes.
and pigments. Often seen Edges can be square or
as an alternative to natural chamfered, and surface
granite, they fall into a finishes can be varied.
similar price bracket, n It’s strong and durable,
costing from around £300 so should last the lifetime
per square metre. of your kitchen. Being
n High-quality, branded non-porous, it won’t stain
products have consistent and makes a hygienic food
colour and thickness and prep surface. However,
often come with a it isn’t quite as heatproof
guarantee. Bear in mind as granite, so it’s always
unbranded tops with no advisable to place a trivet
warranty may be inferior. under very hot cookware.

ABOVE ‘The imposing chimney RIGHT ‘The island is the
breast, which frames the Aga, anchoring piece and I like
was built out from existing the symmetry of the curved
pillars, and the cornicing above elements on either end. As
has been cleverly matched in, well as storage, it houses the
so the whole structure feels microwave, an integrated
like it’s always been there.’ dishwasher and the bin.’
Hamilton Arm bar stools, £145 Bespoke Georgian-style units,
each, Next. Quoizel Emery including bench and table,
pendant lights, £318 each, £42,000, Drew Forsyth & Co,
JG Harrison. Bespoke antiqued painted in Hague Blue and Lamp
silvered mirror splashback, Room Gray modern eggshell,
£1,000, Drew Forsyth & Co. £73 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball

123MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

CONCEALED
STORAGE

Push-to-open
storage keeps herbs
and spices on hand

for cooking.

ABOVE ‘The breakfast RIGHT ‘I’d had an Aga
cupboard is a fab design before and this new
feature, as the tea, model has a timer, so
coffee, toaster and so it’s more controllable
on are all in one place. and flexible than my
The bi-fold doors are previous one – and
nifty too, as they don’t there’s a separate
protrude when open.’ induction hob, too.’
Cabinetry in Lamp Room Anthracite ER7 Pewter
Gray modern eggshell, £73 electric Aga, £15,000,
for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball Whites Aga

“I ordered the glass KEY SURFACES FEATURE ANNABELLE GRUNDY

splashback in a rush LEFT TO RIGHT Bespoke antiqued silvered mirror splashback, £1,000,
and the colour just Drew Forsyth & Co Painted cabinetry, Lamp Room Gray modern
didn’t work. We were eggshell, £73 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball Quartz worktop Frosty Carrina
able to change it, but Caesarstone worktops, £9,700, Drew Forsyth & Co
I should have taken
more time over it

”GINA WADE, HOMEOWNER
KITCHEN SOURCEBOOK

Kitchen design, build and installation, Drew Forsyth & Co, drewforsyth.co.uk. Pendant lights, JG Harrison, jgharrison.co.uk.
Aga, Whites Aga, whitesaga.co.uk. Bespoke blinds, Cabbages and Cushions, 01422 846688. Floor tiles, Tiles and Mosaics,

tilesandmosaics.co.uk

124MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK



Buying guide

Microwaves
A MUST-HAVE IN A BUSY FAMILY KITCHEN, THESE MULTITASKING
MACHINES WILL REHEAT (OR DEFROST) YOUR FOOD IN MINUTES

BEFORE YOU BUY They’re perfect for cooking food quickly, one-touch shortcut keys for melting
such as pizza, and you can even ‘fry’ butter or chocolate (saving you from
n Not all microwaves are built the things like eggs and bacon without oil. using the hob) or a quick boost of
same. Many of the latest models - power. For ultra-even heating and
called combi microwaves - offer a n Microwave power is measured in defrosting, look for a model with an
host of other functions. If you have a watts – the higher the figure, the inverter - it will control the power
small kitchen or you’re on a tight faster it should heat your food. flow for consistent results, rather
budget, a microwave-only model may The average is 800-900W. However, than pulsing high power on and off.
be best, but otherwise a combi is well as microwave technology has
worth it. A combi microwave doubles improved, simply going for the most n As with all appliances, a clean
as a grill and/or oven, giving you powerful model isn’t a guarantee machine is a more efficient machine.
extra cooking space and offering the of a better-performing oven. However, how easy your microwave
best of both worlds: cooking a jacket will be to keep clean will be affected
potato quickly via microwave, with a n Most microwaves have turntables to by its interior finish. Stainless steel,
crispy (oven baked) skin. ensure even cooking, but some newer enamel and acrylic are relatively easy
n The latest, high-end combis often designs have ditched them completely. to clean with a regular wipe down.
come with extra accessories such as a These flatbed models use the latest
grill rack, an oven tray, a steamer and technology to distribute the microwaves n Pyrolytic cleaning functions (which
a crisper plate. Forget everything you evenly without the need to turn the incinerate mess completely at high
were told about not putting metal in food. This frees up lots of space inside temperatures) and low-hassle
microwaves: these large, non-stick for big dishes, such as casseroles, and catalytic liners (which burn off
metal dishes are heated quickly by makes them far easier to clean. any grease and food that’s on them)
microwaves to become a hotplate. are usually only found on
n Auto-defrost and reheat functions combination microwaves.
are also worth investing in, as are

“Aim to spend around
£100 for a standard
microwave and up to
£300 for a larger combi

"with all mod cons

GINEVRA BENEDETTI, DEPUTY EDITOR

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

Tried&Tested

BEST COMPACT We believe that any product
MICROWAVE
HOTPOINT CURVE MWH 1311 should be simple to use, stand

TYPE Corner standalone the test of time, look good and
CAPACITY 13 litres POWER 700W
FEATURES Space saver, four cooking work brilliantly to make your
levels, memo button, safety lock
PRICE £89.62 life easier. Our testing team put
This compact microwave has a curved
back designed to fit into a corner. It’s a each product through its paces
clever design because corners are the
least useful bit of any kitchen worktop – at home, over several weeks,
but of course you can put it anywhere.
Capacity is just 13 litres but it fits a 28cm pitting them against everyday
glass turntable in there, so it can handle
a dinner plate. You can microwave situations. Those products that
cook at four power levels or defrost
by time or weight. make the mark are awarded
REASON TO BUY Super compact, fits
neatly into a countertop corner a star rating. And
REASON TO AVOID
Small internal capacity the very, very EST. 1920
RATING 4.5/5 best are awarded

BEST FREESTANDING COMBI our ‘Ideal Home APPROVED
MICROWAVE Approved’
PANASONIC NN-DF386BBPQ recommendation. 

TYPE Freestanding, oven and grill BEST OVERALL
CAPACITY 23 litres POWER 1000W MICROWAVE
FEATURES Pull-down door, wire grilling
rack, metal crisper plate PRICE £259.99 SWAN NORDIC
This freestanding microwave combi boasts DIGITAL MICROWAVE
a flatbed design, so you get 30% more
usable cooking space. It comes with a TYPE Digital
grilling rack, an enamel tray for oven CAPACITY 20 litres
cooking, and a Panacrunch pan which is POWER 800W
great for pizzas. Controls are straightforward, FEATURES Defrost, express,
plus there are seven automatic programs to auto cook, advance timer
cook popular foods by weight. PRICE £119.99
REASON TO BUY Multi-functional with This microwave comes in four colour choices: white, grey, green or
a decent capacity blue. The dial scrolls through timings, up to one hour, and with only
REASON TO AVOID It has a large footprint 800 watts, there are more powerful microwaves out there, but this is
RATING 4.5/5 a top pick for those who have a little more than £100 to spend.
REASON TO BUY It’s far more multi-functional than it first appears
REASON TO AVOID The controls took some adjusting to
RATING 4.5/5

FEATURE MILLIE FENDER BEST VALUE
MICROWAVE

RUSSELL HOBBS
INSPIRE
MICROWAVE OVEN

TYPE Standalone
CAPACITY 17 litres
POWER 700W
FEATURES Five power levels, defrost setting, easy clean exterior
PRICE £74.99
We loved how easy to use this microwave was. It has six settings
and the timer goes up to half an hour which is convenient for the
defrost mode. We found that its defrost and high power settings
were brilliant for day-to-day use.
REASON TO BUY It’s super affordable
REASON TO AVOID Fingerprints will leave marks RATING 4.5/5

FOR MORE MICROWAVES VISIT IDEALHOME.CO.UK/BUYING-GUIDES-REVIEWS

127MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL Kitchen in Porter
Portal in Bay Green,
PROJECT PLANNING Dust Grey and Sage,
from £12,000,
Plan the ideal Second Nature
kitchen layout

KITCHEN EXPERTS ANSWER EVERY QUESTION
YOU HAVE ABOUT CHOOSING, PLANNING
OR DESIGNING A KITCHEN LAYOUT

O ne of the most, if not sloping ceilings or eaves?,’ asks
the most, important Darren Watts, design director at
things to do when Wren Kitchens. ‘If so, make a note of
planning your kitchen, the shortest and tallest heights, then how
is to figure out the far the slope extends into the room.’
kitchen layout. Since it’s the heart
of the home, a space you may be Additionally, it’s key to have an idea
spending a lot of time in, this room is of the style of room you’re planning.
one of the most important to get right, ‘Knowing whether you’re aiming for
and the layout can make it – or break it. a sleek, contemporary space or a more
It can be fairly daunting working out traditional look also influences potential
where to start, so we’ve done the first layouts, as the proportions will be
different,’ explains Sally Hinks.

hard step for you and mined the expert WHERE SHOULD THE
kitchen designers for their knowledge. APPLIANCES GO IN
From breaking down the main kitchen MY KITCHEN?
layouts and how to plan a small kitchen, ‘You need to make sure your
to the pitfalls to avoid, this feature will space actually works for its main
explain everything you need to know. purpose, which is to cook,’ says
Darren Watts. ‘Think carefully
WHERE DO I START WHEN about which parts of the kitchen
PLANNING THE LAYOUT? you’re going to be using the most
from a cooking perspective and
This is truly the lynchpin of good kitchen how easily you can move between
design. Every aspect of the kitchen, all of these – this is called the
how it works and how it is used is based kitchen triangle.
around the layout. ‘This method usually focuses
on the fridge, sink and cooker,
When starting, the first thing you must which are the core elements to
do is to assess how you’re going to be think about when mapping out
using the space, as this will dictate what your space,’ he continues. ‘After
you need to include in it. Is it purely for considering these elements, you Bespoke kitchen
cooking, or will you be entertaining, too? can then begin to think about prices start at
Is it a working from home spot, and will where your other appliances will £25,000, The
kids be doing homework in there? sit, items you might want to Main Company

It’s also important to look at the include such as a microwave,
features of the room as it stands. ‘In dishwasher, wine fridge and so on.’
many cases, doors, thoroughfares and mind. ‘A larder is the place to store food,
windows exclude certain possibilities but ‘Having a coherent and well-thought- groceries and other provisions, so it
also help narrow down potential suitable through triangle of activity can help you needs to be located close to hand,
options,’ says Sally Hinks, kitchen reduce by 25 per cent your movement in and be protected from adverse
designer at Harvey Jones. ‘Many people your kitchen,’ adds Alice Pasteau, retail conditions like direct sunlight or extreme
like to design their kitchen to make the support manager at Schmidt. ‘Once you temperatures,’ says Simon Bodsworth,
most of a lovely view outside, or to take have decided on all these points, the managing director at Daval Furniture.
centre stage in an open-plan space, layout will almost plan itself.’
which can be a useful starting point.’ ‘You are best served positioning any
As to what goes where in your triangle, larder storage next to the fridge, as it
Architectural quirks should be noted there’s some useful guidance to keep in ensures pantry goods are right next to
at this stage, too. ‘Does your room have

128MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

“The kitchen is a

dual-functional space

for cooking and eating,

meaning open-plan

living has to be

second nature"TOM HOWLEY, DESIGN DIRECTOR
AT TOM HOWLEY KITCHENS

Stratford kitchen OPEN-PLAN KITCHENS
in Calico, from
One of the most popular
£11,600 including styles of kitchens in recent
installation and years, and for good reason.
appliances,
‘There is a time and a place
Optiplan Kitchens in a kitchen for formal dining,’
says Tom Howley, design
director at Tom Howley
Kitchens, ‘but the modern
kitchen has to be able to
accommodate an impromptu
pasta with friends, or a stir fry
with the family. Not only this,
but the kitchen is also a
homework base, a relaxed
office space and a home bar.’

129MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

Arbor kitchen, GALLEY KITCHEN
from £25,000,
Harvey Jones These kitchens are typically found
in long, narrow rooms. In galley
layouts, counters run along the
two parallel walls. ‘I love a
galley-style kitchen,’ says Andy
Briggs, interior designer at
Optiplan Kitchens. ‘It doesn’t have
to be a small narrow corridor as
most would know them for, they
can be wider spaces that work
brilliantly for through rooms,
allowing one room to effortlessly
connect to the next. It allows a
sense of comfort and sometimes
needed privacy – a space to be
yourself without being on show.’

fresh foods for convenience. For this kitchen layout. Only once you’ve worked
reason, our most popular larder is out where these are going can you begin
600mm wide, as it creates a uniform look to plan where the electric sockets,
with the fridge unit being the same plumbing, extractor fans and the like
width,’ continues Simon. ‘Double-door should be placed. Changing these at
larders are becoming more popular and a later time can be time-consuming and
options are usually 1,000mm and involve additional cost.
1,200mm wide, so getting to know your
measurements for both furniture and WHAT ARE THE MAIN TYPES
appliances is vital when buying a kitchen. OF KITCHEN LAYOUTS?
Remember that every kitchen is unique
and there are no standard sizes, styles There are several different types of
or arrangements so you, and your kitchen layouts – each with their own
kitchen designer, need to make sure that pros and cons. But ultimately, the layout
everything fits, whether you are buying you choose will be based completely
off-the-peg or going for a made-to- on the space you have to work with
measure kitchen.’ as well as, of course, your personal
preferences. ‘It’s important not to fall into
Appliances should always be mapped the trap of assuming an emerging design
in right at the beginning of planning a for a kitchen belongs to a certain type,

ISLAND KITCHEN Renzo Character
Oak and Savoy Matt
An island kitchen can actually be Lichen kitchen, from
composed of any of the other main £12,000 (furniture
kitchen layouts. The differentiation only), Daval Furniture
here is simply an island in the middle,
detached from all walls. ‘Walkway
space should be a key consideration.
When designing your layout, always
leave a metre of walkway space on
either one or two sides of your
worktop, island, or peninsula
counter,’ advises Tom Howley.

130MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

Mornington because there are often eccentricities there are other solutions if that option
Shaker Edge to the space or the client’s needs which doesn’t appeal or work in your space.
kitchen in Stone can inspire something that breaks out
and Porcelain, of these set layout types and makes ‘Open-plan kitchens can be used for
from £12,000, for something really special,’ advises anything – from cooking and entertaining
Second Nature Howard Miller, of H Miller Bros. to relaxing, working from home and for
doing school homework,’ says Sally Hinks.
Indeed, as great as the standard ‘If you are committed to an open-plan
kitchen layouts are for guidance, you scheme, it’s important to consider all
can really have fun creating something the roles that the space will play and
a little bit different. ‘Bespoke requests for understand how you are going to use it
custom-made food stores or a multi- to be sure that it will work for you.’
purpose workstation that would once
have been considered “off-plan” have As an alternative, the ‘broken-plan’
become everyday design considerations look is seeing a rise in popularity for
in the modern kitchen, changing the family-friendly kitchen layouts. ‘Something
typical U- or L-shape kitchen layout to we’re quite conscious of is that if you’re
include a space for a home office, for not careful, things can fight with each
example, a dedicated bed area for the other for territory,’ says Howard Miller.
family pet or an integral boot room ‘We’re noticing a shift to what some
for storing outerwear or laundry people call broken-plan layouts that allow
appliances,’ says Simon Bodsworth. families to still be in the same space, but
with increased privacy. This defined design
WHICH LAYOUT IS BEST FOR layout helps families to differentiate
A FAMILY-FRIENDLY KITCHEN? cooking, dining and living areas while
preserving the overall open-plan feel of
When designing a layout that works well the space. In order to create a broken-
for a family, an open-plan arrangement is plan layout, we use bespoke solutions
generally seen as the best choice, but such as slatted screens, open shelving,
and freestanding bespoke furniture.’

Whether you stick with an open-plan
kitchen layout or not, a kitchen island
is definitely worth considering if space
allows. An island helps define zones
between kitchen and living areas, as well
as adding more surface area and seating.
‘The island unit creates a centrepiece in
the kitchen, allowing you to utilise your
kitchen as both a work space and social
area where friends and family gravitate

L-SHAPED KITCHEN

A more traditional kitchen

layout, the L-shape is usually

based around a corner and

formed by counters and

cupboards running along

two perpend ls.

U-SHAPED KITCHEN Corner larder,
from £1,103,
This kitchen design runs LochAnna
against three walls, creating the Kitchens
classic ‘U’-shape. ‘This is my
favourite kitchen layout,’ says
Sally Hinks. ‘It allows for a lot of
worktop space, which you can
never have enough of.’

131MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

Meltham kitchen PENINSULA KITCHEN
in Dove Grey and
Charcoal, from Cousin of the island kitchen,
£12,000 (furniture but a little more adaptable,
only), Daval Furniture the peninsula is formed by one
counter extending from the wall
into the kitchen space.

throughout the day,’ says Al Bruce, Soho kitchen in kitchen. ‘We consider that the “front row” FEATURE THEA BABINGTON-STITT
founder of Olive & Barr. ‘The setup Misty Moors, from of storage is twice as useful as the
is ideal for gathering the family and £5,388, Magnet second – anything where you have to get
the added worksurface allows multiple something out first before you can reach
members of the family to get stuck in kitchen,’ notes Alex Main. ‘Clever storage the thing you want isn’t really storage at
and help at dinner time.’ solutions like pull-out cupboards in all,’ says Howard Miller. ‘A wall of full
corner units are great in larger spaces height 300mm deep storage is pretty
Finally, the other winner for a family- for enhanced convenience, but these will much as useful as if it were 600mm deep,
friendly kitchen is to go custom. ‘Custom- leave dead space in smaller kitchens.’ and 300mm gained on circulation space
made kitchens that enhance both work makes a world of difference.’
and social life continue to grow, and we ‘To make sure that your space is
are finding this is inspiring open-plan stretched as far as possible, you should Without a large kitchen island to fall
spaces that are family-friendly and consider investing in furniture and back on, you may find yourself quickly
encompass kitchen, dining and living appliances that double up in their running out of counter space in a small
areas in one,’ says Simon Bodsworth. functions,’ suggests Sinead Trainor, kitchen layout, so you need to bear in
‘New considerations such as banquette kitchen category manager, LochAnna mind how much prep space you really
seating, integral breakfast bars and extra Kitchens. ‘Even a small breakfast bar need. ‘A great tip is to cover your sink
power points should be considered at can work as both a storage area and with a temporary piece of worktop or
an early stage of planning to ensure the a place for dining. While from first glance a fitted chopping board while it’s not
“fundamentals” are planned in.’ an iconic design element has been in use,’ advises Tom Howley. Q
created for the home, the cupboards
WHAT IS THE BEST DESIGN that fit beneath the bar are also a useful
FOR A SMALL KITCHEN? place to keep pots, pans, or food.’
Storage, particularly, is key in a small
Small kitchens can be perfectly
welcoming and cosy, but finding the right
layout is even more important when
space is at a premium. ‘When planning
a small kitchen, it’s essential to think
about your overall aesthetic,’ says
Hayley Simmons, director of Commercial
Range, Magnet. ‘Some decor suits
smaller kitchens, while others can make
your space feel enclosed.’

‘Anything that blocks out natural light
or makes the room feel overcrowded or
cramped is worth avoiding in a small

132MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

PROJECT ‘We wanted something
DETAILS contemporary, but not
clinical, so that it would be
WHO LIVES HERE? in keeping with the rest of

Kate Nelligan, a gardener, the house.’
lives here with her husband Units, £24,000, West & Reid.
Thomas, a chartered surveyor,
and their daughter Edie, five. Opal glass dome pendant
lamp shades, from £95 each,
THE PROJECT
Dyke & Dean
Turning a dark, impractical
space into a light and
bright kitchen in a

Victorian semi-detached
three-bedroom house in
Bromley, south London

TOTAL COST
£35,241

KITCHEN PROJECT

Bright times

REMOVING AN INTERNAL DIVIDING
WALL TURNED KATE AND THOMAS
NELLIGAN’S KITCHEN-DINER INTO
A UNIQUE AND PRACTICAL SPACE

BEFORE

133MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

‘I love sitting in the
window seat with
a cup of coffee.’
Seat in Chintamani,
£162m, Ottoline.
Juhannus cushion, £80,
Projektityyny. Siemens
IQ500 oven, £499;
oven/microwave, £845,
both Appliance City

UNIQUE TOUCH

A window as the
splashback allows extra

light into the room

THE PROBLEM THE SOLUTION from West & Reid. The is actually more storage
island was an important now. I spent a lot of time
Small, ‘Our intention was to feature: it’s a natural barrier deliberating over the
cramped and transform the unwelcoming between the prep area and flooring. We chose terrazzo
impractical, kitchen into an open, warm the socialising space. We tiles over my original
this kitchen space in which to host fitted a full-height English choice of parquet, a
was ripe for family and friends. We elm larder, which is so decision I made late in
renovation. knocked two rooms into practical, and although we the day, so the kitchen
one and started from have fewer units than was installed before the
scratch, choosing a before, having the deep flooring, but I’m so glad I
contemporary pink kitchen drawers means that there did, as it works beautifully.‘

134MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

FOCUS ON

Terrazzo

This attractive, traditional flooring material
originally from Italy is back in the spotlight

n Terrazzo is a composite is also an eco-friendly
material of marble decorating choice.
chippings set into cement. n Once sealed and
It is either poured on-site moisture-proof, it can be
by hand, or precast into applied to any interior wall
blocks that are then cut to or floor, but is most popular
size. It’s also available as in kitchens and bathrooms.
ready-made tiles, which are Terrazzo retains warmth
easy to apply directly to well, so it is a good choice
floors and walls. for underfloor heating.
n There’s a vast variety of n A simple steam mop
colour and material options should be used for cleaning.
– chippings can be marble, Poured terrazzo is prone
metal, quartz or glass – and to cracking and should be
it is very durable. As it is restored, re-ground and
made using offcuts, terrazzo polished by a specialist.

‘The mid century-style
furniture and the streamlined
layout work well with the
period features, such as the
original bay window.’
L Ercolani Plank table,
£1,305; L Ercolani Butterfly
chairs, £629 each; L Ercolani
bar stools, £290 each, all
Barker and Stonehouse. Ply
rug in Off-White, £639, Muuto

135MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

MIX & MATCH

Use a combo of
tall units, closed
cupboards and

open shelves

‘Accessories in warm ‘We chose a pale
metallics, such as this quartz worktop with a
tap, enhance the honed finish to work
kitchen’s relaxed, with the elm and the
contemporary scheme.’ soft-pink units.’
Gessi Flessa brushed Unistone Bianco
warm steel tap, £755; Assoluto quartz
Shaws Classic inset worktop in Suede finish,
ceramic sink, £317, both 20mm deep, price on
Kitchen Sinks & Taps request, West & Reid

“Be prepared for KEY SURFACES FEATURE IFEOLUWA ADEDEJI PHOTOGRAPHS ELLE BENTON

the project to overrun. LEFT TO RIGHT Flooring Schibas EE8130 terrazzo tiles, 600x600mm
Delays are stressful each, £78sq m, Love Terrazzo Work surface Unistone Bianco Assoluto
but you just have quartz worktop in Suede finish, 20mm deep, price on request, West &
to adapt and deal Reid Larder and shelving English elm, price on request, West & Reid
with each situation
as it occurs

”KATE NELLIGAN, HOMEOWNER
KITCHEN SOURCEBOOK

Kitchen (design, build and fitting), West & Reid, westandreid.co.uk. Flooring, Love Terrazzo, loveterrazzo.com.
Siemens appliances, Appliance City, appliancecity.co.uk. Tap and sink, Kitchen Sinks and Taps, kitchensinksandtaps.co.uk.

Lighting, Dyke & Dean, dykeanddean.com. Table and chairs, Barker & Stonehouse, barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

136MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

IDEAL vs GREAT DEAL

Kit out your kitchen with practical utility-style
furniture and tactile accent pieces

LUXE GOLD
MARBLE ACCENT
Menu marble Zuiver marble
wall clock, time wall
£257.50, clock, £69,
Cuckooland
Beut

LEATHER BRUSHED BRASS BELL SHAPED FAUX FINISH
LOOK Isaac antique brass and Calume transparent Darcy kitchen
Mason
counter glass pendant light, pendant light, stool, £119,
£70, Laura Ashley £30, B&Q Cult Furniture
stool, £185, range, Dar Lighting
Cox & Cox NATURAL FIT
Branas storage
RATTAN WEAVE basket, £12, Ikea
Stan cube storage

basket, £38,
La Redoute

FEATURE LISA FAZZANI UTILITY STYLE LEAFY PRINT
Stoneware mixing Country Manor
bowl, £24, Marquis stoneware mixing
bowl, £12, Habitat
& Dawe

SURFACE APPEAL SIMPLY MONO
Bessie metal and wood CHIC MITT
industrial kitchen trolley, Scallop stripe
£198, Maisons du Monde double oven Zen double
glove, £39,
Tori Murphy oven glove,

£6, Dunelm

WOOD EFFECT
Metal and wood kitchen

trolley, £100, Argos

137MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

BEFORE YOU BUY IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

n They may look just like an average “W hile the majority of
tap but the latest generation of boiling boiling water taps can be
water taps are becoming kitchen self-installed, it’s worth
must-haves, thanks to their range forking out for a
of multifunctional uses. professional to do it,
n They usually connect to the to avoid any issues
plumbing of your kitchen taps to fit a "further down the line
miniature boiler underneath the sink GINEVRA BENEDETTI, ASSOCIATE EDITOR
to create an instant source of hot water.
n Delivering near-boiling hot water
for drinks, snacks, cooking and
cleaning, they all have some form of
child safety lock. They will all have a
built-in water filter, too.
n There are several types available.
You can get a dedicated tap that sits
alongside your current tap and
dispenses filtered boiling water only.
Next, there are 3-in-1 taps that deliver
hot and cold water, plus boiling
filtered water. Finally, you can get a
4-in-1 tap that does everything, as
well as dispense filtered chilled water.
We’ve chosen to focus on the ones
that offer multiple types of water.
n One of the biggest factors when
buying is whether to get a tap that
delivers true boiling water at 100°C
(ideal for making tea) or one that’s a
fraction cooler, also known as an
‘instant hot water tap’.
n Energy consumption is low, with
costs at between 3p and 10p a day.
n Boiling water taps come in a choice
of sizes and shapes, from ultramodern
to classic trad looks. They come as
standard with a wide array of add-ons
too, and running costs include
replacing the tap’s filter cartridge
every six months. These tend to vary
in price so do your research.
n Lastly, before you buy, make sure
the boiler tank will fit in the cupboard,
and for convenience, aim to get the
largest tank that you have space for.
Access to a plug socket is helpful too.

Buying guide

Boiling water taps

STREAMLINE YOUR COUNTERTOP AND WAVE GOODBYE TO YOUR
KETTLE WITH A MULTI-TASKING KITCHEN TAP THAT DELIVERS A
WIDE RANGE OF WATER TYPES – ALL FROM ONE STYLISH SPOUT

138MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

BEST NEAR- BEST TRADITIONAL DESIGN
BOILING TAP PERRIN & ROWE
GROHE ARMSTRONG 3 IN 1
RED DUO
DELIVERS Hot, cold and filtered
DELIVERS Hot, cold and filtered near-boiling water
near-boiling water TEMPERATURE 75–98C
TEMPERATURE 99C TANK CAPACITY 2.4 litres
TANK CAPACITY 3 or 5.5ltr DESIGN OPTIONS J spout;
DESIGN OPTIONS L, C or U spout; multiple finishes
multiple finishes PRICE from £1,232.76
PRICE from £849 The build quality of this polished brass tap is
What sets Grohe Red apart from the rest is exquisite, with thicker plating than industry
its child lock – you must press two icons to standards. It dispenses filtered, near-boiling,
start the near-boiling water and the outside as well as regular hot and cold water.
of the spout is safe to touch. The second Capacity is only 2.4 litres but that means the
you take your finger off the button, the water boiler under the counter isn’t so bulky. An
stops. However, there is a pot-filling function anti-scald locking mechanism prevents
that delivers up to 3ltr of near-boiling water in youngsters using it. The tap operates from as
60 seconds without keeping your finger on low as 1.5 bar pressure, which is good, as some
the button. The M-size boiler (H37cm) has a rivals require a higher mains water pressure.
3ltr capacity while the L-size (H49cm) boils up REASON TO BUY
to 5.5ltr. Both have a 21cm diameter, so they Exquisite build quality and also operates at
have a small footprint, too. low water pressures
REASON TO BUY REASON TO AVOID
A-rated energy efficiency with a small Not 100C and has a small capacity
boiler footprint
REASON TO AVOID
Not 100C

FEATURE GINEVRA BENEDETTI; CARAMEL QUIN BEST VALUE BOILING BEST FOR ADD-ON
WATER TAP FEATURES
QETTLE SIGNATURE QUOOKER FUSION
MODERN
DELIVERS Hot, cold, filtered cold
DELIVERS Hot, cold, and filtered boiling water
filtered cold and filtered TEMPERATURE 100C
boiling water TANK CAPACITY 3 or 7ltr
TEMPERATURE 100C DESIGN OPTIONS C or U spout;
TANK CAPACITY 2, 4 various finishes
or 7ltr PRICE from £1,150
DESIGN OPTIONS The Dutch-designed Quooker was the
J spout; multiple finishes first-ever boiling water tap. If money’s no
PRICE from £735 object, add a Quooker Cube, for sparkling
It’s hard to fault the Qettle for one good reason and still chilled water. To operate, you push
– price. The boiler comes in three sizes and a the easy-grip ring down twice to unlock
range of no-frills finishes. Safety-wise, you have (that’s the childproofing) then turn it to
to depress a button and hold it down to turn control. The boiler holds either 3ltr (much
the dial to dispense boiling water, and there’s more than a kettle) or a supersized 7ltr.
also an optional safety cover to keep little REASON TO BUY
hands off it. Chilled water is optional, while Optional huge capacity and you can add
sparkling is due to be introduced this year. chilled and carbonated water
REASON TO BUY REASON TO AVOID
Great value with true 100C boiling water Add-ons are pricey
REASON TO AVOID
Design less fancy than some premium taps

FOR MORE BOILING WATER TAPS VISIT IDEALHOME.CO.UK/BUYING-GUIDES-REVIEWS

139MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

IH KITCHEN SPECIAL

| ROOM RECIPE |

Utility room

THESE SIMPLE DESIGN INGREDIENTS ARE ALL YOU
NEED TO MAKE SURE YOUR UTILITY ROOM IS BOTH
PRACTICAL AND STYLISH. TICK OFF OUR ESSENTIALS

TO CREATE THE IDEAL LAUNDRY SET-UP

1. LIGHTING underneath to ensure the colours and finishes. ‘Choose before designing your FEATURE HOLLY WALSH
rug stays in place. cabinets mainly in a painted space. It’s no use going for
As one of the most practical finish as this gives the an off-the-peg design and
rooms in your home, this IH LOVES… flexibility of a complete expecting your items to fit
isn’t the place for mood makeover if you decide – they won’t, and you’ll be
lighting. During the planning n La Redoute for to change your colour gutted if your smart utility
stage, be sure to consider everyday designs scheme later,’ says Alex space is ruined by a washing
your options, as poor lighting n French Connection has Main, Director at The Main machine that doesn’t fit in
can lead to stains not being some wonderful options Company. ‘It also means even its designated spot.’
spotted and care labels being n Rug Artisan has lots if you want a subtle change,
misread. Under-cabinet or to choose from it’s much easier to do.’ IH LOVES…
shelf lighting is great for
small spaces and wall lights 3. SHELVING IH LOVES… n IKEA for customisable
are aesthetically pleasing, but storage solutions
think about backing these up Open shelving is a great n Dulux for budget-friendly n Store for clever
with bright ceiling lights for way to utilise wall space, makeovers overdoor options
dark winter days when natural as well as make a display n Fenwick & Tilbrook for n B&Q offer a great
light levels are at their lowest. of your prettier cleaning paint with depth design service
paraphernalia. Try decanting n Farrow & Ball for rich
IH LOVES… washing tablets into glass colours 6. SURFACE
jars or keeping washing SPACE
n Dunelm has some powder in galvanised pots. 5. CUSTOM-BUILT
great pendants Room sprays and linen CUBBIES For a successful utility, it’s
n Lighting Direct water can also look pretty important to have surface
for a vast range displayed on shelves. Before building your utility space to sort laundry before
n Original BTC for space, think about what will and after washing. ‘This is
statement pieces IH LOVES… be going into it and where. one aspect that’s often
‘One common mistake that overlooked but one we find
2. A RUG n Garden Trading for people make is not measuring so important in our design,’
new scaffold shelves their appliances before says William Durrant, owner
Utility rooms can often feel n B&M for inexpensive designing their laundry room,’ of Herringbone Kitchens.
chilly due to the lack of soft storage jars says Vicky Silverthorn,
furnishings. Add a rug and n WIlton London for stylish professional organiser at IH LOVES…
not only will it keep your cleaning products You Need A Vicky. ‘Think
feet warm, it will also help about what you want to n John Lewis & Partners for
absorb noise. Try choosing 4. THE FINISHES store, be it an ironing board, lovely laundry baskets
a design with some pattern mop or laundry baskets, and n Lakeland for a whole host
to help elevate the room, It’s worth planning out all measure their dimensions of clothes driers
and use an anti-slip mat the details of your utility n TK Maxx for cleaning
room, even down to the caddies

NEED INSPIRATION? HEAD TO IDEALHOME.CO.UK FOR MORE UTILITY ROOM IDEAS

140MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

1

3

“Adding a plant or two

will make your utility space
feel more like an extension

of your home and bring

some life to it”GINEVRA BENEDETTI, DEPUTY EDITOR

6
5

4

Raw scaffold shelf, from £50;
Hornton wire stacking storage

box, £32; Edgeworth storage
caddy, £24; Hatherop small
fabric storage basket, £15;
Edgeworth lidded storage
boxes, from £20 each;

Hatherop under-bed storage
bag, £30, all Garden Trading

2

| PROMOTIONAL FEATURE |

Shine light on
your work zone

PUT YOUR WFH SPACE IN THE SPOTLIGHT WITH MAGIC HOURS, A NEW
WALLPAPER COLLABORATION FROM VELUX X POODLE & BLONDE

VELUX windows ost of us are now splitting our
allow natural light to work hours between an actual
flood in; Magic Hours workplace and our homes, so
wallpaper in Golden it’s time to re-evaluate our work-from-
Hour promotes home space. Whether you have a
productivity while dedicated office, or work in a corner
Twilight Hour of the kitchen, a naturally lit space is
(below) encourages much better for our wellbeing; we’re
a sense of calm more alert, have an improved mood,
less fatigue and reduced eye strain.

POSITIVE VIBES
The new VELUX x Poodle & Blonde
luxury wallpaper collaboration, Magic
Hours, has been designed specifically
for the home office, and has a reflective
finish to bounce light around a room.

It comes in three colourways,
featuring hues of orange, blue and pink,
which capture the way natural light
changes. ‘The golden hour happens as
the sun welcomes in a new day,’ says
Kierra, one half of the Poodle & Blonde
duo. ‘The blue hour happens at sunset,
and twilight hour is a magical time
before sunrise.’ Designed with home
office spaces in mind, the wallpaper
collection’s colourways were selected to
promote productivity and build a sense of
calm, creating an ideal WFH atmosphere.

WFH STYLE IDEAS LIGHT WORK FEATURE LIZZIE HUDSON
Of course, a VELUX roof window takes
Whinnie Williams and Kierra this transformation even further. With
Campbell of Poodle & Blonde quick installation, and prices starting at
share their WFH top tips only £295, installing a window to bring
n Decorate the ceiling in bold daylight into your home is easy.
colours and prints to add interest
and make the space feel bigger. FIND OUT MORE

n Maximising natural light will Visit velux.co.uk to discuss your options
help increase productivity. for free with a VELUX daylight advisor.
The limited edition VELUX x Poodle &
n Mix vintage and modern pieces Blonde collaboration wallpaper range
to make your space feel unique. is available at poodleandblonde.com.

RENOVATION

The additions have
been finished using

Marley Eternit
Equitone Linea
cladding, which is
highly weatherproof
and low maintenance

EXTENSION PROJECT

From dark to
bright and airy

EMILY BURNETT, DIRECTOR AT GRUFF ARCHITECTS, BEFORE
REVEALS HOW THEIR TOP-TO-BOTTOM INTERVENTIONS
TURNED THIS DATED TERRACE INTO A MODERN HOME

143MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

HOME NOTES The luminous infill
extension has been
HOMEOWNERS designed so that the
kitchen units, flooring
Susan Humphrey and and joinery run on from
Scott McDonald each other all the way
into the garden
PROPERTY
The fixed glazing
Four-bed Victorian terrace adds natural task
in southeast London
lighting and the
ARCHITECT pendants are

Gruff Architects ideally placed for
(gruffarchitects.com) food prep

BUILDERS The oak table and
chairs were chosen
MPRM Design and Build
(mprmdesignbuild.co.uk) to mirror the
use of materials
TOTAL COST
£270,000 introduced for
the joinery in

this new space

THE PROBLEM THE SOLUTION timber, white and grey with element of glazing so it felt
a few pink accents. These like a new addition to the
The small, ‘We took the house back to run throughout the house original Victorian property.
dark house brick and added a loft and to unite the spaces and act Wherever we could, we
needed a total side extension. At the end as the backdrop, with the designed the framework
renovation, of the garden, there’s a new owners’ artwork and added for the rooflights to be
including a room that acts as a home furnishings that will go into hidden so that the wall ran
new roof office, too. The key to the the house over the years. up to the glazing, giving it a
interiors was to keep the Where we designed any simplified look, which
material palette to five additional space to the focused on the glazing
elements: the glazing, house it was done using an detail and the view beyond.’

144MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

RENOVATION

“For the loft spaces we used With a skylight above FEATURE IFEOLUWA ADEDEJI PHOTOGRAPHS CHRIS SNOOK
standard-sized pitched and flat it, this area was the
rooflights available off the shelf natural choice when
from the suppliers and opted it came to creating
for larger sizes for all a family desk space
"EMILY BURNETT, ARCHITECT
FOCUS ON

Flat roof
glazing

Emily Burnett shares her
top s and ideas

1PITCH IS VITAL
Glazed flat roofs still
need to be installed at a
slight ch – a minimum of 5°.

2LET MORE LIGHT
IN At least 30% more
daylight enters from a

roofli than from a window.

3 ROOFLIGHT
OPTIONS Many
openable rooflights

are available as electric with
remote control and sensors
that automatically close if
it starts to rain.

4BEWARE THE
HEAT IN SUMMER
Include built-in shading

to prevent overheating in
south-facing rooms.

5THINK ABOUT
HOW YOU’LL
CLEAN THEM

Professional window cleaners
have equipment up to about
8-9m high. Beyond that you
will need to think about
the maintenance access
adjacent to the glazing.

145MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

PROJECT PLANNING

Conservatories
THINKING OF ADDING A CONSERVATORY?
WE’VE GOT EXPERT ADVICE TO ENSURE YOU
GET THE RIGHT STYLE TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS

G reater access to front and pitched roof) and lean-to
daylight and a better conservatories (a good budget option)
connection to the are two of the most common types of
environment offer the structures available. Conservatories have
most beneficial living always typically been separated by an
conditions for your external door, but nowadays, the big
health and wellbeing. A well-designed trend for open-plan spaces has changed
conservatory facilitates this by the way that conservatories are
blurring the transition between inside connected to the home.
and out, allowing you to enjoy your For example, if you want to have a
garden or outdoor space all year round. dining table in your conservatory, it’s far
Popular among the Victorians, easier to serve food there if you can walk
conservatories were built to hot-house straight into it, rather than having to
their beloved exotic plants. Traditionally open an external door. It also makes
separated from the rest of the house by your home appear larger and makes the
a set of external-quality doors, the idea garden feel more connected to the
of the classic ‘bolt-on’ conservatory has inside of the property.
been changing. ‘Now
we are seeing more ORANGERIES

add extr aand more designed as A conservatory is
made largely of glass,
an integral part of the including its roof.
Orangery designs
space andhouse, used as an have more brickwork
and are more of a
“addition to the main flat-roofed extension

enjoy theground floor living
space,’ says David
Salisbury, MD of outdoors with large glass
David Salisbury windows and a roof
Conservatories. all yea light, while garden
round rooms usually have
CONSERVATORY walls, a solid roof and
OR EXTENSION?
One of the key traits that traditionally gener ows. These ‘hybrid’ rooms
separates a conservatory-type structure make of modern advances in
from an extension is the presence of an high-p ce glass, designed to
external-grade locking door, between the minimi oss in winter and heat
addition and the main house. There is gain in . As a general rule, a
also a limit to the permanent services conservatory will typically have more
such as water, drainage and heating that than 75% of the roof glazed and an
can be installed. To all intents and orangery less than 75% glazed.
purposes, a conservatory is a standalone
building attached to the main house. PLANNING THE BUILD
You don’t generally need planning
CONSERVATORY STYLES permission when building a conservatory,
Available in classic Victorian and unless you happen to live in a listed
Edwardian-inspired styles, as well as building or conservation area, although
modern designs, conservatories can be it is always worth checking with your
made to fit the side or rear of the house. local authority to make sure before
They can also be designed to wrap starting on any construction.
around a corner, in order to make the Conservatories that aren’t separated
best use of the available space. from your home by an external door are
Victorian conservatories (with a bay subject to building regulations, and will

146MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

RENOVATION

SELECT PLANT-
THEMED FABRICS

The fern-patterned
blinds in this

conservatory give a
nod to the Victorian
plant lovers who first
built these structures.

KEEP IT PLAIN GO FOR A
AND SIMPLE CORNER

Roman blinds in a Tucking a conservatory
neutral fabric with between a garden wall
chair covers to match and the house makes
ensures focus on the an excellent feature in
view through the glass.
a little-used corner.

NEED TO KNOW

CONSERVATORY ESSENTIALS

UPVC is great for low style. It’s also known for its are likely to require it. About
strength and anti-corrosion. 85% of conservatories need
maintenance affordability. planning permission.
HOW TO PLAN n As a guide, permission is
TIMBER has a whole host required if it extends more
n While adding a single than three metres from the
of sustainable qualities and storey extension or a rear of the house if it’s
is generally a lot more conservatory to your attached; or if more than
environmentally-friendly. house may be considered four metres if detached,
Timber can also be painted ‘permitted development’, more than single storey
in many different finishes. meaning you do not need or if the property is listed.
to apply for planning
ALUMINIUM is one for permission, larger structures

the lover of sleek, minimalist

147MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

RENOVATION

have to be checked by your local
authority for building regulations
approval. Similarly, conservatories
that are more than one storey high or
are larger than 30 square metres in floor
area will also need to comply with
building regulations.

CONSERVATORY HEATING

Maintaining an even temperature in a
conservatory can be tricky. At the height
of summer, they may be overly hot
because of the direct sunlight and the
rest of the time, they can feel very cold.
Thermally efficient glass can help with
loss of heat and is worth looking into if
you haven’t yet had your structure built.

Consider the aspect of your
conservatory; a south-facing extension
may be too hot and too bright for
comfort. You can, however, reduce glare
and control temperature with blinds.
Some manufacturers offer blinds with
coatings that help reflect heat and glare
in summer and retain warmth in winter.

Ventilation is also important. Do
consider automatic opening roof lights,
so that your room never gets too warm,
even on a hot summer’s day.

It’s important to bear in mind that
heating in a traditional conservatory
should not be connected to the main
central heating in your house, due to
building regulations. So a separate
system, such as underfloor heating, or
fan and electric heaters, is necessary.
One of the most effective methods of
heating a glass-walled room is by
installing underfloor heating.

THINK ABOUT SIZE FEATURE JENNIFER EBERT PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM
AND SCALE

A grand house with a
large garden requires
an orangery with solid
plastered walls and
several sets of doors

opening out onto
gracious lawns.

ADD A USEFUL
EXTRA ROOM

On a smaller scale, a
flat-roofed garden
room will increase
useable space in the
house as well as
making garden access
easier all year round.

148MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

RENOVATION

ASK AN EXPERT

IDEAL HOME’S RESIDENT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER
CHARLIE LUXTON SHARES HIS DESIGN KNOW-HOW

ow can I ren
my staircase

can and should be one of the main placed, can flood a dark stair and light, and
es in your home. From Georgian and accentuate height and space. Cu roof joists
ian beauties to the refined efficiency of and creating a light shaft throug oflight can be
mid-century modern, they come in all shapes transformative to a home. Many n daylight in
and sizes and offer an opportunity to flex main rooms, however bright, natu tion spaces are
design ambition, create space and flow, and just as uplifting. This approach ha onus of creating
function as a clever daylight improving device. a very effective way to get rid of unwanted heat in summer. Tall
However in some homes they are an anti-climax, a let-down spaces create excellent ventilation as the hot air rising has
and too often, when a home has been refreshed and enough height to set up a ‘stack effect’ with escaping hot air
refurbished, the stairs are left untouched, seen as too sucking in fresh cooler air.
expensive or difficult to alter. Don’t fall into this trap! There are If you’re stuck with an outdated unappealing staircase or just
clever ways to re-imagine or tweak a staircase without the cost, want a change, think colour. Pedestrian pastiche handrails and
hassle and dust of tearing spindles can be transformed by a
it out and starting again. lovely glossy yellow or vibrant green.
Imagination is the limit, with Painting treads can lift a flight of stairs
the areas I focus on first being and help bounce light, or paint the
light, colour, arrangement, whole thing a moody dark colour
spindles and handrails. to create drama. Finally, try and get
Stairs are all about landings, treads and stringers (the
connection, not only enabling side bits that connect the treads)
people to move between to match – it helps with flow.
floors but providing a vertical There is sometimes the opportunity
void through a building which to adapt the first few treads of a
allows daylight from one level stair to change its dynamic without
to another. Often located in having to change the entire flight.
the darker parts of a home it Think about adapting the first step
means that even a small or two into larger-shaped treads
window or roof light, correctly (sort of mini landings) that change
direction and play with the way you
ABOVE A runner approach the staircase. These new
with contrasting treads made of a contrasting material
paintwork and – concrete, brick or appearing like
wood create a huge chunks of wood – can be
smart focal point transformative to your space.
LEFT Open Finally, if tinkering at the edges is
treads and a glass not enough, before you pull out the
balustrade ensure entire stair, think about changing your
an airy feel in this handrail and spindles. Moving from
modern home painted wood to slender metal or fine hardwood can make a
PHOTOGRAPHS FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM real difference. A lovely simple oval-shaped hardwood handrail
is one of my favourite things. While not necessarily cheap, it is
worth focusing your budget on where you touch a building:
good-quality door handles, light switches and handrails will
bring you joy for years to come. Balustrades are an area that
can be incredibly creative, emphasising height with floor-to-
ceiling slats or rods, creating sculpture with flowing twisting
solid balustrades or taut fine metal mesh and wire can all be
notes in the design composition of your home.
Roll up your sleeves, sharpen your pencil, take a good long
look at your staircase and let your imagination fly. n

149MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK

PROJECT PLANNING

Replacement
windows

IMPROVE YOUR HOME’S LOOK, VALUE AND
ENERGY EFFICIENCY WITH OUR GO-TO
GUIDE TO REPLACEMENT WINDOWS

U pdate your existing years. ‘Choose fully factory-finished
single-glazed or wood windows to ensure the joints, seals
old double-glazed and bits you can’t see are completed to
windows and you’ll a very high standard,’ says Tony Pell,
chairman of the Wood Window Alliance.
immediately notice
Aluminium frames suit contemporary
the benefits. These buildings, loft or warehouse conversions
and 1930s homes, where they were part of
include a warmer home, smaller energy the house’s original design. Condensation
can be an issue but modern aluminium
bills, a lower carbon footprint and frames can be made with a thermal break,
which prevents condensation and
reduced condensation. improves insulation, too.

As Checkatrade’s experts explain, PVC and PU windows have become
more sophisticated, with most companies
‘Window replacement can instantly

boost the value of your property and

enhance your quality of life. Looks aside,

newly fitted windows can help you to

be more energy-efficient and reduce

noise pollution in your home.’

CONSIDER FRAME STYLES “be more energy efficient .

The type of windows you choose will and cut noise pollution
affect the appearance of your property offering wood-effect frames. These cost rating, which must be betwee
and could decrease or increase its value, about 20 per cent more than standard
so research the options carefully. Each white, and come in natural-looking Visit the British Fenestration
option – wood, aluminium or PU/PVC – finishes such as rosewood or light oak.
has an impact on the look of your home Council for more information on ratings.
and comes with a different price tag, so RESEARCH GLAZING OPTIONS
it’s important to weigh up your options. Unless your house is listed or in
The glass is as important as the frames,
You can now buy windows made from with different types of energy-efficient a conservation area, all replacement
wood impregnated with preservatives. glass that, combined with the air-tightness
This helps prevent water penetration of the frame, give a window its energy windows must be at least double-glazed
and reduces maintenance, so you’ll only
have to repaint them every eight to 10 to comply with building regulations. If

it is listed, exemptions may apply; if your

period property isn’t allowed double

glazing, try secondary glazing instead.

FOCUS ON

WINDOW FRAME MATERIALS

Q Good-quality timber anywhere between £350 and comes in a range of Q PU and PVC are good
windows can improve the and £1,000 per window, colours. However, it doesn’t value and low maintenance
look of a house, add value depending on the size and suit every style of house but tricky to repair and can
and last 60 years or more design. It can be more. and has a high price tag. discolour. Plus, plastic has
if well looked after. However, Q Aluminium is strong and The average cost is pretty around half the lifespan of
they will need regular frames can be very slim to similar to timber windows, well-maintained wood or
maintenance and can be maximise glazing. It’s low depending on the size and metal. Prices start at
pricey. Expect to pay maintenance, long-lasting design you go for. around £250 per window.

150MARCH 2022 IDEALHOME.CO.UK