Renovation
6. Look into lightingElectricians generally charge to install light fittings by quantity. The more downlights you have, the higher the labour and installation costs. There is also the added cost of buying the light fittings and the bill shock you get for the electrical output. Limiting the amount of downlights and placing them strategically so they deliver the right light output where it’s actually needed will keep costs down.Tip Most lighting suppliers offer a free lighting service where they’ll design a layout tailored for your house and specific lighting needs. This not only saves you money, but gives you a well-thought-out design. It does mean that you will have to buy the light fittings from that supplier though.
Tone and shapeLove vases, pots and bottles? Each time you’re itching to add to your collection, consider what you already have at home before you reach for your purse, and ask yourself whether the new addition will fit in. Here, the earthy tones, smooth surfaces and slender shapes of the collection sit beautifully together, providing a wonderfully cohesive display.
Straighten the kitchenKitchens love a straight wall, so if your flat’s wide enough, run the units in a single line along one side of the room. A width of 3.6m, for example, will house a tall fridge and a decent run of worktop.Place the dining table parallel to the units to create a pleasing double-act, with the table acting as a buffer between the kitchen and the living space. The table will perform the same function as an island, providing an extra surface for preparing food.Use dramatic lighting to accentuate the dining zone.Will a glass splashback suit my kitchen?
Circular rug
Q