Water features are one of most interesting ways of adding an extra dimension to your garden. And you don’t have to be an expert to create the perfect pond or fabulous fountain. Here some top tips on how to create a stunning feature that will provide years of pleasure.

There is something magical about the way water can transform a garden into a unique and special place. Water cascading from a fountain and sparkling in the sun, or the reflection from a lily-covered pond can imbue a garden with a sense of tranquility. Add to that the calming sound of water trickling over rocks and you can see why so many homeowners crate an aquatic paradise in their own backyard.

The magical ‘fourth element’ can be used in a range of features to suit the character of your garden; from the formal to the natural and traditional to the modern. (more…)

Selling your house for as much money a you can is the name of the game. If you’ve got money to invest in home improvements, how should you best spend it to increase its sale ability? We ask the experts for their top tips…

Your property needs buyer appeal if it is to realize its full value. It could be that some special care and attention is needed before your home goes on the market.

After making sure that the basics are right (no dripping pipes, no leaking gutters, no damp patches on walls) the serious work begins. Try to be objective – this is not your long-term home we are talking about, it is one which soon will be someone else’s. Do you know the kind of buyer you are likely to attract and what’s the competition like? How are you going to make sure your home stands out from the others?

Your local estate agent will know what works in your locality. The house has to look good because selling cheaper than the competition rarely works – people usually don’t want to have work out how much they would have spend turning the place around when they get in. On the other hand, one seller’s successful extension could be another’s waste of money.

Different areas have different price ceilings and your estate agent should be able to guide you on this. If your home is in a very sought after district and the well-heeled are ready to march in, having an architect design something unique could be a very worthwhile investment. (more…)

If you have decided to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and head for the countryside, you may need to make a few essential changes before that derelict barn becomes the rustic residence of your dreams.

Country style living is universally associated with escaping urban pressure and enjoying a more spontaneous way of life.

The landscape and light changes, which we romantically associate with country life, are as much a part of it as rustic craftsmanship, the village green, the local pub, a roaring log fire, the feeling of belonging (even if it is a second home) and, of course, wide open spaces. Country seems most effective when it is artless and apparently effortless.

But putting these bucolic dreams to one side for the moment … (more…)