Latest articles by Ruth Doherty
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"It just makes life more comfy!" Why designers love the 'couch desk', and how to make your sofa perfect to work from
A couch desk will ensure you're always comfortable while adding a relaxed ambiance to your space.
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Introducing the dining sofa - designers explain how this decor trend elevates your home
Find out why designers are swapping chairs for the dining sofa, a brand new decor trend that helps to create elevated, elegant and relaxed yet social spaces
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Should a sofa face the door? Experts decide the perfect couch placement for a room you'll want to relax in
Where should your couch go? Should a sofa face the door? Design experts explain the secrets to rooms that are perfect for relaxing in
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5 rug colors to avoid – the hues designers think you should veer away from on floors, plus how to make them work
Experts reveal the rug colors to avoid and the tricks they use for choosing the most flattering hues
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What's the best material for split-level kitchen islands? Designers on getting this luxe decor trend exactly right
Marble, wood, quartz? Designers share their expert insight on the best material for split-level islands that offer the perfect blend of pretty and practical
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Colors for south facing living rooms - 9 perfect shades that make the most of your light-filled space
These 9 perfect colors for south facing living rooms will show off a light, bright space in all its glory, as designers explain what shades to use
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How to make your backyard feel more private - 13 ways designers create a hidden oasis
From flower-covered trellises to clever fire pit screens, these stylish ways to make your backyard feel more private are the perfect way to create an outdoor sanctuary
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Colors for north facing living rooms - 9 hues designers use to elevate spaces with little natural light
These designer-approved colors for north facing living rooms will help you create elevated schemes even when natural light is lacking
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Should the hob go in the kitchen island? Experts decide on the most sociable and space-saving design
If you're a sociable cook, a hob in the kitchen island could be just what you've been missing...
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Hold everything - these 11 flooring transitions are reinventing decor, zoning spaces and looking incredibly luxe
Color outside the lines with these amazing flooring transition ideas for a fresh take on threshold styling that zones spaces and has perfect designer decor appeal
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'They're transformative!' - 9 kitchen island centerpiece ideas designers use to elevate their schemes
From branch displays to antique objet, these kitchen island centerpiece ideas will elevate your space in an instant, giving it a designer overhaul
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7 inspiring layouts for subway tiles that all feel like brand new design trends
These inspiring layouts for subway tiles will add an instant modern edge, taking a well-loved look and turning it into something that feels like a new trend
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Should ceilings be glossy or flat? A paint expert lifts the lid on getting this vital touch just right
Should ceilings be glossy or flat? Our expert clears up any confusion on how to paint your ceilings and exactly what finish to use
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How to make your kitchen island look more expensive - 7 ways to easily elevate your decor
These expert-approved tips are the perfect way to make your kitchen island look more expensive and give it a high-style finish
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What's the best way to shade a patio? These 9 brilliant ideas will help you keep covered and cool in style
Looking for chic shade ideas for a patio? These pretty pergolas, awnings, shade sails and parasol designs will inspire how you keep covered
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8 DIY canopy ideas to provide shade and shelter for your backyard that can all be built in a weekend
These DIY canopy ideas will ensure you keep covered in style without blowing the budget
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DIY outdoor bench ideas - 10 sociable seats you can make yourself to elevate your alfresco space
These chic DIY outdoor bench ideas will leave you with extra budget to spend on decking, tiling, accessories and - most key - entertaining
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12 ways designers make backyards more relaxing - peace, calm and tranquility can be yours
From lighting to layering, these expert tips on how to make your backyard more relaxing will help you create a serene outdoor retreat
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Freestanding vs built-in kitchen appliances - designers on the pros, cons and choosing what's right for you
Which kitchen appliances work best as freestanding or built-in? Design experts decide on how to choose what's best for your home
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Don't buy a bathroom sink without reading this first - the expert guide to picking the perfect one
Experts share their top tips on how to buy the right bathroom sink, from materials to mounts and making sure the choice is right for you
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How can I make my kitchen more relaxing? 5 ways designers add heart, soul and calm
From natural materials to tonal color palettes, design experts reveal how to make your kitchen more relaxing in 5 easy steps
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How to avoid the biggest kitchen cabinet mistakes - designers on what they'd never do again
From the wrong dimensions to not enough research, experts reveal the common mistakes we make when choosing kitchen cabinets
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8 genius spots for a wine fridge outside the kitchen which will prove you're really living your life well
Because when is it never a good idea to have a wine fridge fill with chilled tipples and refreshments on standby?
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5 unexpected things I keep in my kitchen that make it much more organized - and you should, too
These items might seem out of place in the kitchen but they're secretly organizational and cleaning gems
