FROM THE EDITORS
How does the start of the year make you feel? January and February have gotten themselves a bit of a bad reputation as the bleak winter months that we wish away in the hope of spring. There’s even a day dubbed Blue Monday for its gloomy combination of post-christmas malaise, dark nights and failed resolutions.
But we think it’s high time that we claim back the joy of this period. Once all the expensive and busy celebrations of the festive season are over, the new year brings with it a sense of peace and also of possibility. With less demands on your time, and bank account, now’s the perfect moment to turn your attention inwards and focus on the fresh start the year ahead can offer. Stay home, grab a pretty notebook, and jot down how you’d like to spend the coming months.
One topic that always sparks an enthusiastic discussion on the Real Homes team is that of a proactive, outwith-the-old declutter. Who doesn’t love that feeling of taking a huge bin bag of clothes to a charity shop, leaving your wardrobe orderly and airy. Storage is an often overlooked element in our homes, but it can totally transform not only how you use your space, but how you feel about it. That’s why this month, our style editor, Anna, has rounded up savvy storage ideas for every room (page 38), so you can create a place for everything, and make it easy to keep tidy.
With the cost of living increase still at the forefront of all our minds, we’ve joined forces with financial expert
Holly Thomas. Every month she’ll offer insightful advice on ways to manage your money most effectively. Her new column kicks off with how to review your finances, highlighting small and simple changes you can make to help you save (page 128).
However you’re spending the opening act of your year, we hope you join us in finding the pleasure and anticipation in these quieter months. And that you’ll let the pages of Real Homes give you the inspiration, know-how and motivation to dream up and plan your next home improvement project, however big or small. Enjoy the issue!