The joy of scents

Few things in life evoke a feeling or memory quite like a smell (that’s true of good and bad fragrances alike). When we moved into our new home a couple of years ago, I became fixated on (well, obsessed with really) a very faint metallic smell that lingered in the hallway. Thankfully, no one else seemed to notice and it soon disappeared after we removed the stair carpet and painted the walls. As a result, I always burn a scented candle or place a diffuser in the hall as I just can’t bear the thought of it returning. A beautifully scented hallway is so much more welcoming!

The good news for me – and you – is that the home fragrance market has grown hugely over the past few years, with a bouquet of scents and diffusers available for us to choose from. Our stunning visual story Smells Like Home (page 26) does a deep dive into the power of fragrance, exploring how it not only helps create the right ambience, but also boosts mood and has a positive impact on wellbeing. And if you need guidance on choosing the right aroma for your home, you’ll love our fragrance finder on page 34.

Elsewhere, much of this issue is dedicated to the benefits – and the challenges – of small-space living. Turn to our 16-page section (from page 121) and discover some truly inspiring ways to make your rooms work harder, look tidier and feel bigger. Plus, we have plenty of ideas to help you design the perfect small garden plot (page 140), as well as tips for making any outdoor space a sociable ‘fifth room’ (page 44). With the warmer weather on its way, there couldn’t be a better time to get out there and make the most of it. Enjoy!