Design fails and DIY mishaps are something many of us face, but what’s the biggest home improvement mistake to avoid?
‘What upsets me is when people spend decent money on a project which isn’t designed properly from the beginning. That’s one of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen people make over the years,’ architect and Amazing Spaces presenter George Clarke tells House Beautiful UK. ‘There’s nothing more expensive than messing up building and DIY projects.’
Before you tackle a remodel, it’s important to prepare and plan — especially if you want your project to succeed from the get-go. ‘The most annoying thing in my career is seeing people not spend time sketching to get it right,’ adds George. ‘The more decisions you make up front, the more chance you have of your project being a success.’
Remote working has made many of us crave bright, fresh spaces. It’s amazing to think that, up until last year, our homes were simply places to escape the woes of a long day. Over the past 12 months, however, they have become so much more.
‘It’s so important to have an escape at home,’ says George, explaining the importance of creating your own retreat. ‘Now that we’re at home more, it’s so important to create different zones in your house. I’ve seen people do it in very simple ways — it might be a very simple change in paint colour or putting up some fabrics.’
From the genius disappearing bathroom in Wales to the futuristic rotating home, Amazing Spaces has seen some extraordinary small builds over the years. But, with the 10th series in the works, what is George’s most memorable project to date?
‘The most memorable project is my 1970s caravan from series one,’ George tells us, explaining that it’s his family’s pride and joy.
It might have cost just £300, but the caravan has been a ‘recharge retreat’ that’s lasted George and his family almost 10 years. ‘Even though it’s not in my house, I couldn’t imagine a better recharge retreat for me personally. There’s no technology in there, it’s simple, affordable and beautifully designed. My kids love that caravan more than any other hotel I’ve taken them to. It goes backs to basics. It’s been life-changing for us.’
George Clarke has teamed up with belVita to help us Reclaim Our Space. For more information, visit here.
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Floor cushions: 15 styles to help you lounge comfortably
The Quilted Floor Cushion
Quilted Floor Cushion
MADE.COM MADE.COM
£79.00
With a quilted effect, this large floor cushion is one stylish buy. Its soft fabric and squidgy frame makes it the ultimate lounging must-have.
The Straw Floor Cushion
Hand Woven Tatami Round Straw Cushion
Give your space a glow-up with this round straw floor cushion. Made from natural and eco-friendly materials, it has hooks for easy storage and a classic design. Place on the floor or alternatively use as a back rest when reclining after hours.
The cord floor cushion
Loa
Quilted, squidgy and upholstered in cord velvet, this russet floor cushion is ticking all the style boxes!
Best Large Floor Cushion
Rohini Mint Green Cushion
www.urbanoutfitters.com
£144.00
In a larger size, this mint green floor cushion features a cotton outer material and a polyester filling. We love the splash of mint green, which is perfect for spring time.
The colourful floor cushion
Rajput Ribbed Cotton Floor Cushion Mustard Yellow
homescapesonline.com
£9.99
A stylish and comfy accessory, this floor cushion is perfect for introducing some colourful accents into your home. Other available colours includes pink, dark olive, teal and purple.
The Eco-Friendly Floor Cushion
Hogla floor cushion 50cm x 50cm
ORIGINAL HOME selfridges.com
£50.00
Handcrafted from 100 per cent natural and eco-friendly materials, this large floor cushion is ideal for a living room or conservatory. Add a comfy blanket on top and unwind with a good book.
Best Knitted Floor Cushion
Knitted floor cushion
notonthehighstreet.com
US$370.00
Cosy up at home with this handmade knitted floor cushion. Made from hypo-allergenic material that does not attract dust, the cushiony style provides a brilliant spot for relaxing.
The Handcrafted Floor Cushion
John Lewis & Partners Jute Floor Cushion, Natural
John Lewis johnlewis.com
£52.00
Woven from 100 per cent jute, this on-trend floor cushion is fitted with a handle so that it can be hung up when not in use.
Best Velvet Floor Cushion
Matte Velour Blush Floor Cushion
Add a touch of luxury to your living space with this blush pink velour floor cushion. It’s the perfect spot for someone to perch if you run out of chairs. If it’s not quite right for you, pick up the mustard hue instead.
The Kids’ Floor Cushion
Grey and Yellow Round Floor Cushion
homescapesonline.com
£13.99
This soft, round floor cushion is ideal for children. The yellow button and piping detail complements the grey, but other colours are available if you prefer. Suitable for indoors and outdoors, you could also use this floor cushion as a seat pad for hard chairs.
The Beige Floor Cushion
Large Floor Cushion
Social seating just got an upgrade. In a gorgeous beige hue, this large floor cushion provides a spacious place to unwind. Best of all, it can be easily stored away after use.
The polka dot floor cushion
Räsymatto Floor cushion
madeindesign.co.uk
£139.00
This polka dot patterned floor cushion is upholstered in a thick, machine-washable cotton. We love the graphic monochrome print, it’s a great way to brighten up your interiors.
Outdoor Floor Cushion
Indoor Outdoor Square Floor Cushion – Soft Grey
The Jute Floor Cushion
Jute floor cushion 70cm x 70cm
ORIGINAL HOME selfridges.com
£95.00
Add wow factor to your home (and Instagram feed) by placing this floor cushion in your living room. Crafted from jute, cotton and wool, it will provide useful, additional seating.
Best Printed Floor Cushion
Merinid Floor Cushion – Lapis
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