Christmas is around the corner, and it seems as though Dyson is feeling extra generous this year. The iconic appliance brand has just launched not one, but three new floorcare appliances today – including the much-anticipated Dyson PencilVac (£429.99 at Dyson), which is officially the world’s slimmest vacuum cleaner.
The best Dyson vacuum cleaners are a much-loved staple in the floorcare world, but this new release marks a record-breaking first for the brand as it features Dyson’s fastest Hyperdymium vacuum motor in a tiny stick form – and with some extra special cleaning features to boot.
Despite adding three new products to the brand’s floorcare lineup, I can’t deny that I’m most excited about the Dyson PencilVac. And as one of the perks of my job is testing new releases before they come out, I’ve been testing it for the past couple of weeks (keep an eye out for my full review coming soon), and I can confidently say that there’s nothing quite like it on the market.
Stick-thin and just 38mm wide, it’s ideal for smaller spaces and grab-go-cleaning, and offers a Fluffycones cleaner head with four conical brush bars to tackle both pet hair and long hair with ease. It’s also super manoeuvrable as the floorhead easily swivels in all directions for quick and efficient cleaning.
The main selling point for me, though, is that the dust bin is incorporated within the 38mm stick, and emptying it is as simple as sliding it out and straight into the bin – no mess involved, and no plume of dust hitting you in the face. Then, when you’re done, you can pop it onto the sleek charging stand that can be tucked away in any small corner.
However, I wouldn’t be doing my job as Ideal Home’s Certified Expert in Vacuums if I didn’t bring to light some drawbacks that are worth considering – and there’s a big one when it comes to the Dyson PencilVac.
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After all, this vacuum cleaner isn’t designed for rugs and carpets, and it only cleans hard flooring. This means that, even if you just had one rug, it could never really serve as your main vacuum cleaner and you’d always need another for softer flooring.
But if the PencilVac doesn’t quite do it for you, Dyson has also just launched a new robot to compete with the best robot vacuum cleaners out there.
The Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai Robot Vacuum Cleaner is big and bold, vacuuming and mopping your floors using advanced technology and AI intelligence. It even has a whopping 18,000Pa of suction power – which, for reference, will make it the second most-powerful robot vacuum cleaner we’ve ever tested (second only to the top-rated Eufy Omni E25).
For messier homes, it even inspects surfaces for stains and will continually clean the affected area until it’s confident it’s been removed. And after seeing this in action, I am confidently that it’ll offer an all-around clean that most homes will be very happy with.
The downside? It’s a beast, and I’ve even had to pass the reviewing baton to my Senior Editor, Jenny, as my home is just way too small to house both the bot and the giant docking station. Granted, I live in a small Victorian terrace with limited storage and floorspace, but I do think Dyson has missed a trick by making it so large.
Instead, I’m reviewing the new Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene – Dyson’s newest inclusion to the best vacuum mops category. Coming off the back of the older Dyson WashG1, this new hard floor cleaner will clean both dry and wet dirt on hard flooring without relying on an unhygienic filter (which can often make these appliances dirty and smelly).
It also comes with a self-cleaning function and a dock that dries the roller – something that I found was lacking in the WashG1. And from my initial experience of using the Clean+Wash Hygiene, there aren’t many downsides. But so far I’ve only tested it on smaller debris, so I can’t wait to put it through my rigorous testing process which involves thick ketchup, eggs, and porridge (yes, this really is my job!).
All three of Dyson’s new floorcare appliances are available to buy in Dyson demo stores and online right now, but if you’re not quite ready to pull the trigger just yet, keep an eye out for our full reviews that will be published soon.
A steel utility building is one of the most practical and cost-effective structures a property owner can invest in. Whether used for storage, workshops, equipment housing, hobby spaces, or small business operations, a steel building offers unmatched flexibility and long-term value. The challenge for many homeowners and small business owners is achieving this versatility without overspending. Thanks to efficient engineering and customizable design options from companies like US Patriot Steel, it’s entirely possible to build a multi-purpose steel utility structure that meets several needs while staying within a manageable budget.
Below are the key strategies for creating a functional, flexible steel utility building without unnecessary costs.
Start With a Clear Plan for Multi-Use Functionality
The first step to building on a budget is knowing exactly how the space will be used. A steel utility building can serve as a workshop, equipment shed, storage area, small office, vehicle garage, or livestock shelter, but not all purposes require the same features.
Before ordering a building, outline the primary and secondary uses:
Do you need climate control?
Will heavy equipment be stored inside?
Is a workshop section necessary?
Should future expansion be considered?
Planning ahead prevents costly modifications later. Steel structures are incredibly flexible, but adding doors, height, insulation, or new sections after construction is always more expensive than including them upfront.
Choose the Right Size, Not the Biggest Size
One of the most common budget mistakes is overbuilding. Steel buildings scale in cost with width, height, and length. A slight increase in size can dramatically impact both materials and engineering requirements.
Instead of choosing the largest possible footprint, select the smallest size that comfortably meets your needs. Prioritize organizational features, such as shelving, vertical storage, or lean-to additions, before increasing overall square footage. Many owners are surprised by how efficient a thoughtfully planned steel building can be, even at a modest size.
Use a Simple Roof Style and Standard Dimensions
Customizations add cost quickly. To stay on budget, focus on features that increase function rather than aesthetics.
The most budget-friendly choices include:
Regular or A-frame roof styles instead of complex rooflines
Standard leg and wall heights unless taller clearance is required
Rectangular layouts rather than irregular shapes
Steel buildings become more expensive when designs deviate from standard engineering templates. If your goal is multi-purpose affordability, keep the structure simple and let interior organization do the heavy lifting.
Add Multi-Use Features That Maximize Value
A steel utility building can serve several purposes at once when designed strategically. Consider features such as:
Double doors or a large roll-up door for equipment access
A small enclosed room for an office, tool storage, or climate-controlled space
A lean-to extension for low-cost additional covered space
Clear-span interior for maximum layout flexibility
These upgrades improve usability without inflating the budget dramatically. Lean-tos are particularly efficient as they provide shaded storage or workspace at a fraction of the cost of expanding the main structure.
Insulate Only the Areas That Truly Need It
Insulation is a major cost variable. Rather than insulating the entire building, focus only on areas that require temperature control.
For example:
Insulate the workshop section
Leave tractor or equipment bays uninsulated
Add radiant barriers to reduce heat gain without full insulation coverage
Targeted insulation creates a comfortable workspace while keeping budget impact low.
Prepare the Site Efficiently to Avoid Hidden Costs
Site preparation can significantly influence the overall price. Budget-friendly tips include:
Choosing a location with natural drainage
Keeping the pad level small and simple
Avoiding unnecessary excavation
Using gravel instead of full concrete if the building’s purpose allows
A solid foundation doesn’t have to be expensive, as long as it is properly prepared for the load of a steel structure.
Plan for Future Expansion
One of the biggest advantages of steel buildings is their expandability. If you anticipate future needs – a larger workshop, more storage, or an added bay – plan for it now, even if you don’t build it yet.
Simple design decisions like placing doors on nonexpanding sides or keeping end walls clear make future additions affordable and easy.
Conclusion
Building a multi-purpose steel utility building on a budget is not only possible—it’s one of the smartest investments a property owner can make. By planning ahead, choosing cost-efficient design features, and focusing on flexible functionality, you can create a building that meets several needs without financial strain. With the strength, durability, and adaptability of steel, your utility building becomes a long-term asset capable of growing and evolving with your goals.
An inevitable part of Christmas, or hosting in general, is the pile of shoes that builds by the front door. While this is usually a point of annoyance, Zoe Ball has taken to Instagram to reveal she favours this form of clutter, as it means her family is home.
Generally speaking, a pile of shoes by the front door can look unsightly and can be a pretty big trip hazard, especially if you have little ones running about. This is why there are lots of handy shoe storage ideas to keep your footwear out of sight and out of the way.
However, broadcasting legend Zoe Ball has made me reconsider hallway clutter. If shoe clutter is the sign of a full, happy home, is it time to admit that not all clutter is bad? I think so…
‘Love coming home to a mass of shoes means the house is full,’ she captioned a recent Instagram post, which depicted a scattering of shoes on Zoe’s stylish tiled hallway floor.
Certainly, a more controversial hallway idea, I’ll admit it made me think about my own relationship with clutter. While I’m quick to tidy or hide the mess, especially by my front door, I’ve never considered that an untidy entryway meant my home was full of loved ones. And the comments were quick to agree with Zoe.
‘Your post has reminded me to be more thankful for all the shoes by the front door (rather than being packed away in the cupboard!). My gang still live at home but time flys and they won’t always be here! Thank you xx’ said another.
‘I LOVE seeing a pile of shoes by the back door ❤️❤️❤️’ said another.
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(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)
While most of us will whip out one of the best decluttering methods at the first sign of mess, Zoe’s attitude takes a more considered approach, one that suggests there is good clutter that we shouldn’t tidy away in our homes.
‘Not all clutter is bad clutter. In fact, what one person may see as mess is often what makes a house a home. Those little bits and bobs you’ve collected over the years, they tell a story – and that’s exactly why we design storage for real life, whether you love having your favourite pieces out on display or prefer to keep things tucked away but still easy to reach,’ says Becca Stern, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Mustard Made.
‘Think open shelves, baskets, or glass-fronted cabinets for the treasures you want to show off and clever, hidden storage for things you’d rather hide away without losing track of them. Even the everyday clutter, like the pile of shoes by the front door, can be stored in a way that feels stylish yet lived in.
‘Pop them in colourful baskets so they stay organised but visible, or go for a freestanding locker that tidies them away and stops any unexpected trips! A little personality and a lot of practicality, it’s all about finding a balance that works for you.’
(Image credit: Future PLC/Chris Snook)
On the other side of the fence is Lauren Bradbury, Ideal Home’s Cleaning Editor and expert in decluttering. For her, this sort of shoe clutter poses too much of a trip hazard to be left, which is why she swears by these Amazon shoe organisers.
‘Hosting is all fun and games until someone trips over a pile of shoes and your home looks a mess!’ she says.
‘In my opinion, having shoe storage available as soon as your guests walk in subtly sets the tone of what you expect from them (and their shoes) without you having to ask them to take them off outright, and everything just looks so much neater and safer. And if you opt for open storage, you can still enjoy the happiness that seeing a house full of shoes brings you, without it compromising on your home’s tidiness.’
Storivo
Storivo Shoe Organiser
This is the shoe organiser Lauren swears by to keep her hallway tidy. She leaves it by her front door for guests to pop their shoes in when they arrive.
DUSK
Isla Shoe Cabinet – Taupe
This stylish shoe cabinet looks lovely and has three tiers so hold all your shoes. Make it your own by adding family photo frames to the top of the unit.
Argos Home
Argos Home Set of 5 Shoe Organiser
Create extra space on your existing shoe rack with these handy organisers from Argos.
Zoe Ball’s attitude has changed my perspective on clutter. While I still want to keep my shoes up and out of the way (due to my own clumsy tendencies), I do agree that a lived-in home can look the most charming. It’s true, not all clutter is bad clutter.
Interior designers are notoriously hard to shop for , not because they’re picky, but because they spend their lives surrounded by beautiful things and therefore have a sharp eye for quality, texture, and timeless style. If you want to surprise the designer or design-lover in your life, these 15 Days of Design Gifts bring together stylish, functional, and thoughtful pieces they’ll actually appreciate. Each gift below is something that designers commonly use in their own homes or styling projects, and everything is shoppable right from Amazon or Wayfair.
A luxurious throw blanket is one of the easiest ways to elevate a room, and designers adore pieces that add instant warmth and softness. A textured throw in a rich neutral , like camel, charcoal, ivory, or olive , is something they can drape over a sofa, bed, or accent chair to tie a space together. Throws also make styling effortless because they add depth without overwhelming a room. A designer will appreciate the versatility and the way it blends seamlessly into many aesthetics.
This modern touch table lamp is a thoughtful gift because it blends functionality with minimalist design in a way interior designers appreciate. With a simple tap to adjust brightness (3-way dimmable) you get high, medium or soft light, making it ideal for reading, working, or relaxing. The sleek base and clean shade allow it to sit effortlessly in a variety of décor styles,from modern to transitional,without imposing a strong personality. It’s the kind of piece that elevates a side table, nightstand or console, while being genuinely useful (not just decorative). The recipient will appreciate the ease of use, the good scale and the fact that it can live in many settings.
These pinch-pleated linen-blend curtains are a beautifully practical gift that a designer will genuinely use and appreciate. The texture of the linen mix gives depth and a subtle natural feel to a space, while the classic pinch-pleat header makes them look tailored and polished. Because curtains often set the tone for height, proportion and fabric layering in a room, gifting high quality panels shows you understand both beauty and function. They work whether you want to soften light, add elegance to windows or create a cozy, finished backdrop for furniture. A considerate gift for someone who cares about how spaces feel and look.
A pillow is one of the simplest, most effective ways to refresh a sofa or bed, and this boucle pillow nails that balance of texture and restraint designers love. The tight, looped surface gives it a soft, sculptural look that pairs easily with linen, leather, or wood , exactly the palette many modern interiors use. Available in earthy neutrals and muted tones, it complements multiple styles without being trendy or loud. With a strong 4.7/5 rating across over a hundred reviews, it’s clearly hitting the mark with buyers who want both style and practicality. It’s the kind of gift that looks great now and still makes sense next season.
A beautifully crafted scented candle is one of the most effortless ways to elevate a room, and the Calyan Wax Co. Mahogany & Cashmere candles are a designer’s dream. With its rich blend of warm mahogany, creamy cashmere, and subtle sweetness, it fills a space with an inviting, luxurious aroma that feels both modern and comforting. The minimalist amber jar pairs effortlessly with a variety of interiors, from moody organic modern to bright Scandinavian spaces, making it a versatile styling piece for shelves, coffee tables, or bedside nooks. For a designer who understands the power of scent in shaping the atmosphere, this candle is more than fragrance, it’s an experience that softens, warms, and completes a room.
For interior designers, accurate color is everything , and the COLOR MUSE Colorimeter is one of those rare tools that feels like magic the first time you use it. This pocket-sized device instantly scans any surface and identifies matching paint colors, textiles, finishes, or materials, saving designers hours of guesswork. Its precision makes it incredibly useful during site visits, sourcing trips, or client presentations, where nailing the right hue can make or break a room. This is a thoughtful, professional-grade gift that elevates a designer’s workflow, helping them move from inspiration to execution with confidence.
Add instant greenery without the worry of watering or light conditions. This almost‑6‑foot faux olive tree brings height, texture, and a Mediterranean feel to a corner, entry, or office , which is exactly the kind of finishing touch designers often hunt for. Its slender branches, realistic leaves, and even small fruit create natural movement, and the compact pot footprint means it fits in tighter rooms. With a strong buyer rating of 4.7/5, it’s clearly appreciated for its lifelike look and easy display. For someone who loves a styled, layered room, it’s a gift that feels like a major upgrade, not a throwaway present.
The Alessi Pulcina Espresso Coffee Maker is more than a kitchen tool , it’s a sculptural design object created by famed designer Michele De Lucchi. Its striking geometric silhouette instantly earns a place on any countertop, blending Italian craftsmanship with architectural beauty. For designers who appreciate both form and function, this espresso maker delivers rich, barista-style coffee while doubling as a conversation piece. Its polished aluminum body, modern spout design, and iconic profile make it a gift that complements any creative studio, home office, or kitchen. This is the perfect blend of artistry and daily ritual, making it an unforgettable gift for any design lover.
This trio of half‑circle shelves is such a clever, graphic statement piece. Mounted together, they create a modern art installation that still holds objects,small vases, sculptures, books, or plants.It’s an easy way to add height or a focal point over a console, narrow hall, or desk,and because the shape is geometric, it works across styles from mid‑century to contemporary .Gifting this is about giving a tool for styling, not just décor. Designers can change the look daily: one shelf holds a candle, another an art book, the third a tiny plant. The shelf also solves a common challenge,adding display space without chunky furniture.
This 12-piece black melamine dinnerware set from Bzyoo is a brilliantly stylish gift for interior designers who want to merge durable functionality with design-forward aesthetics. The matte black finish gives each plate and bowl a sleek, modern edge that works beautifully in both indoor and outdoor dining spaces. Designers appreciate melamine because it’s lightweight and less fragile, which makes it ideal for styled shoots, client homes, and entertaining setups that may need to be moved or rearranged. The clean silhouette makes it easy to layer textiles, napkins, and glassware to create a cohesive tablespace. Gifting this shows you understand not just how a designer visualizes a space—but how they use it.
This modern hurricane candle holder turns a simple pillar candle into an elegant design moment. The clean black base paired with the tall glass cylinder creates beautiful verticality and adds warmth to any room. Designers love it for dining tables, consoles, and living room shelves where a touch of ambient glow enhances the mood. It’s also an easy piece to incorporate into seasonal décor,think holiday greenery, pebbles, or sand layered inside. A perfect gift for someone who appreciates sophisticated, atmospheric styling.
This full-length arched standing mirror from Latitude Run is a transformational piece for any interior designer’s space. With its graceful arch, full-body reflective surface, and slender frame, it serves both as a functional mirror and architectural statement. Whether leaned against a wall in a bedroom, positioned at the end of a hallway, or used to bounce light in a small studio, it instantly opens up the space, enhances depth, and adds elegance. For someone who spends their days thinking about scale, light, and finish, gifting a high-impact object like this mirror shows you understand the power of purpose-driven design.
This plush faux sheepskin area rug in soft beige tones is a luxurious gift for a designer who appreciates texture, comfort and layering. With its deep shag pile and gentle neutral palette, the “Malaiah” rug brings warmth and a tactile dimension to living rooms, bedrooms or cozy reading nooks. Interior designers often emphasize that scale and material matter, and this rug excels at both,it’s substantial enough to anchor furniture while the neutral hue ensures it integrates seamlessly with varied color schemes. Because it mimics the sumptuous feel of genuine sheepskin but is low-maintenance, it’s a smart, stylish choice for homes that need beauty without fuss.
This striking cocktail table from Andazodoc combines transparent glass and warm walnut finishes in a sculptural form that chefs of design will appreciate. The clear top gives the piece visual lightness,perfect for small living rooms or loft spaces,while the walnut base adds depth and texture, making it a standout anchored piece rather than a fading backdrop. A designer will love the way it keeps a room feeling open while still offering surface space to display books, coffee-table accessories, or a candle vignette. Gifting a coffee table like this signals you understand how key furniture anchors a space’s mood and layout.
This striking canvas print titled “Detour” by Isabelle Z is a perfect gift for someone who loves interiors with personality and polish. The piece features bold, abstract brush strokes in muted tones that create movement and depth without overpowering a space. The gallery-wrapped canvas makes it ready to hang, ideal for a designer who needs a statement piece with minimal fuss. Placed above a sofa, console or bed, it becomes the anchor that pulls together colors, textures and furniture elements. For someone who curates spaces rather than simply fills them, this print offers a clever blend of art-in-motion energy and refined aesthetic.
As we close out The 15 Days of Design Gifts, it’s clear that the best presents for interior designers are those that blend intention, creativity, and everyday beauty. Each gift on this list was chosen to support the way designers think, work, and live, whether through pieces that elevate a space or tools that spark inspiration. At Home Designing, we believe great design is built from thoughtful choices, and the right gift can become part of someone’s creative story. Keep exploring Home Designing for more curated ideas, design insights, and inspiration to help you create a home that feels meaningful, stylish, and distinctly yours.
Tom Kerridge’s surprisingly affordable cookware collaboration has been a sellout hit with shoppers, and this weekend past, I tried one of its bestsellers: the Stainless Steel Roasting Tray (£40 from M&S).
Quality aside, this tray made a huge difference to my cooking, too. With it, I made the crispiest roast potatoes in my roast dinner-making career (I’ve got the reviews from my family to back it up). Here’s why it’s a great buy for this time of year, when cooking is so crucial, as well as built to last in your kitchen, too.
M&S x Tom Kerridge
Stainless Steel Roasting Tray
‘You’ll use this so often you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without it,’ according to Tom Kerridge himself.
The tray is crafted from stainless steel and aluminium and features a textured interior. This honeycomb pattern is supposed to enhance the airflow to whatever food you’re roasting, ‘so food stays nice and crisp,’ according to Tom Kerridge.
It’s a very smart, shiny pan to have in your kitchen. I can’t quite believe a pan of this quality will set you back just £40, and it’s great that it’s suitable for use on the hob too, including induction hobs.
(Image credit: Future)
I started with the most important test of all: roast potatoes. After parboiling, flouring and fluffing I added my potatoes to this pan (which I had previously popped into the oven to heat with oil).
I can’t stress enough how useful the side handles on this pan are and how they enhance the quality feel of the overall product. It made it so much easier to manoeuvre it when it was very hot fresh out of the oven.
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(Image credit: Future)
The resulting potatoes were so crispy and perfectly browned. I turned them over about 20 minutes in before I returned them to the oven to roast the other side and there was no sticking whatsoever. Being able to use my trusty stainless steel tongs for the job was also a big highlight for me.
The final step for my roast potatoes is slathering them in garlic and rosemary butter, which is where things tend to get messy and have gotten a little cagey in the past when using a lower-quality tray. It’s why I’m a big believer in spending more on a good, reliable roaster.
The finished article!
(Image credit: Future)
Even the final roasting segment was no match for this tray. By this point I was already so enamoured with this tray that I waited until my potatoes were done so that I could use it to roast my cauliflower too. I added my florets in and added the tray back into the oven.
(Image credit: Future)
The finished product was great, with less moisture created than with my usual baking tray. The florets were perfectly primed then for my cheese sauce.
The next important thing with this tray is that it’s proved easy to keep clean thus far. Unfortunately the tray isn’t recommended to go through the dishwasher but my handwashing efforts didn’t need to be too severe to get everything off the tray without incident.
For its £40 price tag, the quality of this roaster is second to none compared to any other I’ve tried. It’s shot straight to my list of favourites from this simply excellent chef collaboration. Here are the other picks from the range that we’ve tried and love.
This genius chopping board has already sold out a few times but is now thankfully back and available to buy. After trying it, we can attest it’s simply ideal for the festive season with juice zones for meat carving and built-in bowls for food prep (think of the space for potato peelings!).
One of the other Tom Kerridge picks we reviewed is this stainless steel all-in-one pan which should, in theory, be able to replace all the pans in your kitchen. In it you can sauté, sear and shallow fry with a matching stainless steel lid to lock in flavour. It’s also oven safe.
Our expert reviewer Helen loved this stacked cast iron casserole set so much that she swapped out her usual dishes to use it all the time in her kitchen. It features a large and small casserole alongside a grill version. Our review has the full details.
If you’re on the hunt for a new roasting tray just in time for Christmas then I can’t recommend this one enough. Your next roast dinner will be all the better for it, trust me!
