Welcome

There’s nothing quite like the arrival of spring to make you look at your home with a fresh pair of eyes. Leaving behind the dark winter days gives you renewed enthusiasm for tackling long overdue DIY jobs, perhaps finally updating a key room with a new paint colour or decorating scheme, or even planning a larger renovation project. For me, the thought of extending our kitchen has been at the back of my mind since renovating our 1930s home six years ago. At the time, our budget didn’t stretch to adding extra space, but we now long for a bigger room that is better suited to the demands of busy family life. Reading this month’s in-depth guides to planning a kitchen extension (page 96) and how to bring in more light with new windows (page 107) has finally motivated me to draw up a wishlist and get in touch with an architect to discuss the potential design of the new space. Top priority is more storage, closely followed by a central island unit and, if budget allows, a statement window with a built-in bench seat overlooking the garden. So, whatever the new season has in store for your home, I hope this issue gives you just as much inspiration for your upcoming project, no matter how big or small. Happy planning!

The owners of this Edwardian house have transformed their space by adding a lightfilled, open-plan extension. See the stunning results on page 54

Thinking of updating your windows? Turn to page 107 for the latest designs

Update any space with this on-trend pendant light, which you’ll find on page 80

I love the use of bold colour and metallic touches in this home. Step inside on page 32

Give your bathroom a splash of personality with a statement basin – head to page 86 for more ideas