Ladybirds are everywhere right now, with swarms of these cheerful red bugs being spotted all over the country. While we love these critters in the garden, we don’t really want them in our homes, which is why experts have an unusual hack to deter them from stepping over your threshold.
Back in 2022, there was a ‘ladybird invasion’, and this year we’re seeing another one as an influx of hot weather has increased the number of aphids in the UK, which ladybirds feed on.
Ladybirds are vital insects and incredibly beneficial as a form of natural pest control, which is why you do want to attract ladybirds to your garden. But to keep them out of your house and in your garden, pest experts recommend using citrus peels to keep them at bay. Here’s how.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Are ladybirds a problem?
Ladybird swarms have gone viral on social media as people have documented thousands of bugs swarming seaside towns such as Burnham-on-Sea, Brean and Barrow in the South West, with reports of them even biting.
You may have even seen videos yourself showing people covered in the little red bugs as they try to walk down the street.
‘They aren’t particularly harmful, though they can bite – and they are actually considered beneficial insects as they can help control pests like aphids,’ say cleaning experts at Janitorial Direct.
‘That doesn’t mean people want them in their homes, though; they can be pretty pesky and we see them leaving yellowish stains on walls where they’ve been, and they can also cluster together too, which isn’t pleasant.’
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How to keep ladybirds out a home
If you want to deter ladybirds from coming into your home, citrus peels such as oranges and lemons are a great choice. Many pests, such as flies, can’t stand the smell of citrus, and ladybirds are no exception.
‘If you want to deter them, you could keep it natural and try orange and lemon peels to help deter them, as citrus peels release strong oils that ladybirds dislike. Ladybirds avoid citrus because the strong, acidic oils interfere with their sense of smell,’ say the experts at Janitorial Direct.
‘You can place fresh or dried peels on windowsills, near doors, or rub the peel on frames to leave the scent. It’s a gentle, natural way to deter them, but not foolproof if you have lots of them.’
This works because, ‘ladybirds rely heavily on their sense of smell to locate food, particularly aphids. Strong citrus scents, such as those from lemon and orange peel, can interfere with this, creating an environment they tend to avoid,’ says Daniel Steward from Shield Pest Control.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Using orange and lemon peels may not be the most effective method, however, as the smells quickly fade and need replacing every two days. So if you don’t eat a lot of oranges, this may not be the right method for you!
‘More effective approaches include using stronger scents such as lemon or citronella essential oils, sealing entry points with caulk or weather stripping, and cleaning surfaces where ladybirds have been with a vinegar and water solution to remove any pheromone trails,’ advises Daniel. ‘These methods can help reduce the likelihood of ladybirds entering and settling in your home.’
However, if you are really struggling with an infestation, Daniel recommends speaking to a professional pest control company.
What you need
Citronella Essential Oil
Citronella has an incredibly strong citrus scent that deters a range of pests, including ladybirds. Mix with water to make spray that is stronger than just peels.
Sealant Strip
Seal any entry points to create a barrier to prevent ladybirds from entering. This is self-adhesive and a great choice for beginner DIY-ers.
Rhubarb Scented White Vinegar, 5L
Use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean any yellow stains left by ladybirds. This vinegar has a lovely rhurbarb scent so you don’t have to worry about the acrid scent left behind by normal vinegar cleaners.
While ladybirds are important natural predators, this summer’s ‘invasion’ means you’ll be seeing a lot more of them around. And if they aren’t welcome guests indoors, using citrus scents is a natural, harm-free method to deter them.
Millions of homes in the UK are facing hosepipe ban restrictions and drought conditions this month, leaving many gardeners wondering how they will care for their plants. But don’t worry, garden experts have revealed the one task you need to do to keep your garden happy and healthy during a ban.
Southern Water is the latest water company to announce a temporary usage ban, with Hampshire and the Isle of Wight becoming another area affected by a hosepipe ban. While it’s certainly harder to water your garden during a hosepipe ban, experts say this non-water-related task will help lock in moisture.
Enter mulching. By adding a thick layer of organic matter to your plants, garden experts say you can help lock in moisture and make your plants healthier, so they cope better in drought conditions.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Why you should mulch during a hosepipe ban
First things first, it’s time for a quick recap on what mulching actually is. Put simply, it’s the process of laying organic matter, such as manure, woodchips or gravel, on the surface of your soil.
‘It’s a crucial step in maintaining a healthy garden,’ says Tom Clamp, head of technical at garden care products specialists Pelsis Doff. ‘Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, reduce evaporation, suppress weeds and improve soil structure over time.’
One of mulching’s biggest benefits is that it can help regulate soil temperature and lock in moisture, which is essential for your plants if you’re amid a hosepipe ban or heatwave.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
‘Mulch acts as a barrier for the soil against the direct heat of the sun and prevents the soil from overheating. The mulch also helps to reduce the water evaporation from the surface of the soil, so your plants retain more moisture,’ explains Nigel Lawton, plant buyer at Dobbies.
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‘Not only this, but if you use a good quality organic peat-free compost, it will enrich the soil with nutrients that improve its properties. In turn, this will create a healthier environment for the roots of your plants and enhance their ability to withstand high temperatures.’
Mulching is an easy step you can take that also comes with an abundance of benefits. It will lock in moisture, prevent evaporation and keep your plants healthy, all without the need for a hosepipe.
Flies in the home are not a sight that anyone wants to see, and if you’ve been struggling with these buzzing pests, I’ve got some good news. Experts have revealed the scents that flies hate and how to use them in your home. Even better news, they will make your home smell gorgeous, too.
Having arrived at this article, there’s no doubt you’re wondering how to stop flies coming your house. While there are certainly ways to get rid of flies, with an abundance of warm weather this summer, it’s unlikely these pests are going anywhere this summer.
Luckily for you, flies can be fussy when it comes to scent, and they tend to hate what makes our homes smell good. So, without further ado, here are five scents that flies hate to keep them out of your home this summer.
1. Lavender
Lavender is a superhero plant that has an abundance of beneficial uses in both the home and garden, and one thing it is great at is being a natural fly repellent.
(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)
‘Lavender is likely the best-known scent that flies absolutely abhor. The explanation is due to its high concentration of linalool, a naturally derived terpene alcohol in lavender that overwhelms the fly’s smell receptors,’ explains Tony King, pest control expert, owner and manager of The Pied Piper.
‘I generally suggest homeowners to use lavender essential oil in a diffuser, especially in doors and windows.’
‘You may also create a homemade spray by combining 10 to 15 drops of lavender essential oil with a cup of water and a teaspoon of witch hazel or vodka (to mix the oil), and spraying it around doorways, bins, and kitchen surfaces.’
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‘Dried lavender in decorative bowls or sachets is another low-fuss option that’s both charming and does the trick.’
Cinnamon has a gorgeous scent that will make your home smell like something delicious is baking in the oven. Cinnamon is great for deterring ants, and its scent repels flies, too.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
‘Cinnamon is another scent that repels flies due to its strong, spicy nature,’ explains Daniel Steward, from Shield Pest Control. ‘However, for homeowners, it adds a warm, comforting aroma that’s especially welcoming in colder months.’
‘Cinnamon oil can be added to a diffuser, or you can simply simmer cinnamon sticks on the stove to fill your home with its cosy fragrance.’
Eucalyptus is a fresh, relaxing scent and comes with many health benefits, such as clearing your sinuses, which is why it’s a great plant to add to your shower. Even better, flies hate the smell.
‘Eucalyptus contains cineole, an active insect repellent that also contains a menthol-like scent that flies detest,’ says Tony.
‘I prefer to add some drops to a spray bottle of water and white vinegar and use it to spray countertops or windowsills. Not only will your home smell like a spa, but it will also work as an organic fly repellent.’
Fresh, zesty citrus scents can invigorate a home, and flies can’t stand the smell. There are plenty of hacks, such as the citrus and clove hack, which utilises this fresh scent to deter flies.
‘Citrus scents, especially from lemon or orange peels, also function. Flies dislike the limonene found in citrus rinds that can get into their breathing tract and irritate them,’ says Tony.
‘I suggest always placing fresh lemon or orange peels in areas of concern, like around garbage or kitchen drains. You can even boil citrus peels along with cloves and cinnamon sticks on the stovetop for a totally natural air freshener that serves as a fly repellent.’
(Image credit: Future/Phil Barker)
5. Peppermint
Last but not least, flies can’t stand the scent of peppermint. And if you’re looking for a lively, fresh scent for your home, it’s a great choice.
‘Peppermint is disliked by flies because of the menthol it contains, which can irritate their respiratory systems,’ David explains. ‘While this helps keep them at bay, peppermint’s crisp and refreshing scent is ideal for enhancing the atmosphere in kitchens and bathrooms.’
‘A simple mixture of peppermint oil and water can be sprayed around windows, doorways and rubbish bins to help deter flies while keeping your home smelling fresh.’
With several parts of the UK gardening under a hosepipe ban, I’m all ears for when it comes to finding a good watering hack right now – and I think I’ve just found a brilliant one.
‘As a family, we are saving our cold water run off,’ she said in an Instagram update.
‘When we switch the tap on for showers or washing up, we put a bucket under the tap to collect all the cold water that goes down the sink while we wait for the hot water to come through.’
Making the most of that cold water run off is a brilliant way to recycle water for gardening and steer clear of breaking any hosepipe ban rules. Depending on how quickly your water heats up, the savings could be huge – and in Sophie’s case, they are.
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‘We are saving between 30L-80L per day, which is eight watering cans – enough to water the whole container garden and cabin pots!’ she said.
(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)
I checked in with Hopes Grove Nurseries’ managing director and gardening expert, Morris Hankinson, to make sure this method is totally safe for garden plants.
‘Collecting tap water while waiting for it to heat up is a great idea and is a safe way to water your garden while conserving resources, particularly during the hosepipe ban,’ he says.
‘Cold-run tap water is just regular mains water. It doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals, so it’s safe to use on your plants.’
You’ll just need to make sure the water is cold before you use it on your plants, which Sophie emphasised in her Instagram post.
(Image credit: Future PLC / David Parmiter)
‘Lukewarm water is generally ok, but if it’s too hot to touch on your skin, let it cool down before watering,’ Morris says.
If you’re keen to look after your lawn during a hosepipe ban and the cold water run off doesn’t quite stretch far enough, it’s worth looking at grey water options, too.
‘It’s also a good idea to recycle your bath water,’ Morris says. ‘It doesn’t matter if it looks a bit scuzzy, as there’s likely to be some more nutrients in it, so long as you’ve not used any harsh soaps or other chemicals.’
What you’ll need
Ward
Ward 6.5L Budget Space Watering Can
MECHEER
Collapsible Bucket 5L
Pluto Packaging
14L Plastic Bucket With Metal Handle & Pouring Spout
This hosepipe ban watering hack is so simple, and completely free! You’ll just need to make sure you’ve got a bucket or watering can to hand.
2025 will go down in history as the year of great Morris & Co collaborations – or at least in my mind it will. Following very successful partnerships with the likes of Habitat and Next, it’s now time for the Swyft x Morris & Co. collection to have its time in the spotlight since being released online this week. And I think it’s one of the best ones yet!
Known as the maker of some of the best sofas currently available on the market, Swyft is a fellow British brand (albeit much younger than Morris & Co.) and the pairing of Swyft’s contemporary furniture shapes and Morris & Co.’s classic nature-inspired prints is spot on.
With prices starting at £59 for a cushion, the range spans everything from storage ottomans to large pieces like sofas, which includes the one of the best modular sofas that I rate very highly called Model 03.
(Image credit: Swyft)
‘This collaboration has been over two years in the making; a real labour of love from both teams,’ says Keiran Hewkin, CEO and co-founder of Swyft.
‘We’re two brands that deeply value quality, craftsmanship and care, so bringing our worlds together felt both natural and exciting. We wanted to create something timeless yet fresh, still honouring the heritage of the Morris & Co. archive while reimagining it for the modern home.’
I got an early preview of the offering and a chance to experience the pieces IRL – and these would be my most recommended top picks.
(Image credit: Future/Sara Hesikova)
Top picks
Similarly to the most recent Habitat x Morris & Co. bedding and the Next x Morris & Co. collaborations, the Swyft range, too, features a few different archival Morris & Co. prints – four to be exact.
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(Image credit: Future/Sara Hesikova)
And just like with any collection, there are predicted bestsellers – plus, I have my favourites, too.
‘It’s full of personality, generous in comfort, and the print is a perfect blend of bold and balanced. It’s a piece that truly brings the outside in and we think it’s going to be a firm favourite,’
Swyft x Morris & Co.
Model 05 Loveseat in Blackthorn
Given the size of the range, I didn’t see literally every piece at the preview – but I did see and try out this loveseat which Swyft predicts to be the bestseller in this intricate Blackthorn pattern. The generously sized design is very comfy and deep and the motif will elevate any corner you put it in.
Swyft x Morris & Co.
Model 03 3-Seater Right Chaise Sofa in Willow
This Swyft sofa has made it not only on our best modular sofa list but also into the best sofa buying guide in general. Swyft offers one of the quickest deliveries (it can be with you in 24 hours!) and it arrives flatpacked. Now, you can get this wonderful pairing of the modern sofa shape with a traditional pattern on top.
Swyft x Morris & Co.
Storage 03 Ottoman in Fruit
This is another piece that I saw IRL at the collection preview. This compact ottoman is the perfect addition to even a small living room as extra seating as it provides hidden storage within. Alternatively, you could use it as a seat for your dressing table.
Alternatives from other Morris & Co collabs
As already mentioned, Morris & Co. has been very busy in recent times, partnering with various brands to bring about special collaborations much like the newly launched one with Swyft. Here are some more top picks from other Morris & Co. partnerships that the Ideal Home team and I highly recommend.
Habitat x Morris & Co.
Merton Sunflower Fabric Armchair
Ruggable x Morris & Co.
Blackthorn Ivory Rug
Ruggable, everybody’s favourite brand of washable rugs, is a master when it comes to collaborations – and its parnership with Morris & Co was no different. The ivory Blackthorn rug is the bestseller from the collection and between the muted colour palette paired with pretty, intricate botanical motifs, I’m really not surprised. It’s my favourite too!
Habitat x Morris & Co.
Tulip Toile Bedding Set
The Tulip Toile bed linen design is one of the more subtle prints and, in my opinion, the more elegant and timeless ones from the range. Made with 100% crisp cotton percale, the design is reversible so you can easily switch up the look of your bed.
Are you a fan of the classic Morris & Co. motifs? And what piece caught your eye the most? I’d love to know!
I’m sure you’ll agree with the sentiment that British rooms just aren’t built for the heat, and when heatwaves roll in, I often find more relief outside rather than in my flat. But there is something you can do to make a room feel cooler – and it all depends on your choice of paint colour.
A room’s colour palette can determine whether the room feels cool or cosy, which is why, if you struggle with warmer weather, painting your walls with cool-toned colours can trick your brain into feeling cooler.
To make a room feel cooler with colour, interior experts say you need to choose paint colours that are both fresh and calming, such as soft greys and blues. Here’s how colour can make your home cooler in the summer.
While many of this year’s paint trends have centred on the warm browns and earthy tones that make a room feel cosy, you can still achieve an on-trend and stylish look with cool-toned shades.
(Image credit: Future PLC / David Giles)
‘Just like heavy fabrics or dark lighting can make a space feel warmer, colour has a big impact on how a room feels emotionally and atmospherically,’ explains Lisa Hensby of Lisa Hensby Design & Build Studio.
‘Cooler tones naturally create a sense of calm and lightness, which can be a real relief in the summer months – or in any room that tends to overheat.’
‘It comes down to colour psychology. Cool colours – think blues, greens, soft greys – tend to recede visually, which creates the illusion of space and airiness. They mimic the tones we associate with nature (water, sky, shade), so they can make a room feel cooler, even if the temperature hasn’t changed a degree.’
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What colours should you choose to cool a room?
If you want to use colour to make a room feel cooler and airy, it’s actually all about the tone, so you need use cool-toned shades. From this point, there are a number of directions you can go in, colour-wise.
It’s no surprise that blue shades are the top choice when it comes to cooler colours, as it is typically a colour that we associate with winter and feeling cold.
Crete Paint by Graham & Brown is a stunning, cool blue that will give any room a fresh and airy feel, for example. I’d recommend colour drenching your space with this shade to give an all-encompassing cool yet stylish look.
(Image credit: Future PLC / Siobhan Doran)
‘Whites and soft greys are classic choices that instantly brighten and cool a space,’ says says Sophie Chapman, interior designer at The Vawdrey House. ‘Blues and greens with minimal yellow undertones also contribute to a refreshing, tranquil feel. For pinks and mauves, opt for those with cooler, blue-ish tones rather than warm, orange-based shades,’
‘Complement your colour palette with textures that enhance the cool aesthetic –think flowing linen sheers, crisp white cotton and natural-toned upholstery,’ Sophie continues. ‘Wide, whitewashed timber floorboards can also help reinforce a light, breezy vibe.’
In terms of specific paint shades, Sophie recommends Farrow & Ball’s Blackened No 2011, which is the brand’s coolest white and, as Sophie says, a great base colour to build a scheme around. She says COAT Paint’s Algorithm, Tonic and Rathbone Place are all great choices, while Little Greene’s Livid is proof you can opt for a rich, dramatic tone and still achieve a cool effect.
‘If you want to take things a bit further, paint your room in the almost black Basalt from Little Greene! Cool doesn’t always have to be light!’ says Sophie.
Cool Green Paint
Green can be fresh, natural vibrant, making it a great choice. This green has a cool tone and is a paler hue meaning it will open up and cool a space with ease.
Cotton Breeze
This paint has been specially created to make spaces feel bigger and brighter. And this soft, cool blue will help make it feel coolers, too.
Like Sophie says, cool doesn’t have to be light! This beautiful charcoal colour has a blue undertone to give it a cooling effect.
Cool tones doesn’t automatically opting for a brilliant white matt. You can still experiment with colour but by sticking to cool-toned shades, you can create a beautiful home that can keep you cool and refreshed in the summer.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
All winter long we wished for summer, and now that summer is finally here it’s safe to say that it’s going to be a hot season. Temperatures are climbing, and when that blazing sun reaches its peak in the afternoon it’s essential to do two things: reapply your sunscreen and drink plenty of water.
The best way to remind yourself to stay hydrated is to treat yourself to a pretty new tumbler that you can keep refilling throughout the day. But who says you have to spend a lot on cute drinkware? Certainly not Dollar General, who just dropped the most adorable ocean blue tumbler for just $1 — just in time for you to pack for your next trip to the beach.
The adorable tumblers are made from durable and lightweight plastic, so they’re ready to go anywhere you plan to travel this summer. With a fluted exterior, natural wood top, and matching ocean blue straw, these tumblers are so cute that they’ll make you want to drink more water (or iced coffee, seltzer, Diet Coke, or whatever your go-to drink of choice may be).
As is usually the case when it comes to dollar store finds, there’s no telling if they’ll be in stock at your nearest location or for how long. But if you can’t find one at your local Dollar General, don’t worry — Walmart has a nearly identical tumbler that you can buy either in-store or online, and it comes in not one, but two chic colors. It holds 21 ounces, is dishwasher-safe, and comes either by itself or in a pack of four.
The only downside to buying the Walmart tumbler over the Dollar General one is that it’s more expensive, but not by much. The Walmart tumbler is $3.96, but you can bring home a four-pack for $11.98, which saves you $1 on each. No matter how you look at it, it’s a small price to pay to stay hydrated all summer long.
With remote work, side hustles, and creative hobbies on the rise, homeowners across the country are reimagining how their spaces work for them. For those who live in Denver, where outdoor living, innovation, and compact urban design intersect, there’s growing interest in using unconventional spaces in stylish, functional ways.
One of the most exciting trends? Converting a storage container Denver into a fully functional mini studio right on your property. Whether you’re craving a quiet spot for remote work, an inspiring art studio, or a backyard retreat for writing, yoga, or music, a portable container offers a flexible and surprisingly design-forward solution. Let’s explore how you can transform a simple storage unit into a personalized space that reflects your creativity and lifestyle.
Why Use a Storage Container as a Mini Studio?
Portable storage containers offer more than just convenience, they offer freedom. With limited space inside many Denver homes and apartments, especially those close to downtown or in revitalized neighborhoods like RiNo or Highland, adding a traditional home extension isn’t always practical or permitted.
Here’s where a storage container comes in:
Delivered directly to your home
Weather-resistant and lockable
Customizable from the inside out
No need for long-term construction crews or permits (in many cases)
And when your needs change? The unit can be removed, relocated, or repurposed, all without breaking down walls or disrupting your living space.
Design Tip 1: Define the Purpose First
Before you start adding paint swatches and mood boards, define the exact function of your mini studio. This will determine everything from layout to storage needs.
Knowing your primary use will help you decide on everything from insulation types to flooring and lighting.
Design Tip 2: Light It Up Right
Containers are sturdy but can feel closed off without natural light. Depending on your budget and comfort level with DIY, you can:
Install sliding glass doors or windows on one or both ends to bring in natural light
Add skylights or solar tubes for vertical brightness
Use LED strip lighting, dimmable overheads, or clamp lamps for layered lighting
For artists and crafters, north-facing natural light can help prevent color distortion, while photographers might prefer controllable, indirect lighting setups.
Design Tip 3: Temperature Control Is Key
Denver’s seasons can be extreme, sunny and warm one week, snowy and crisp the next. If you’re converting a storage container into a year-round studio, insulation is non-negotiable.
Consider:
Spray foam insulation for the best temperature regulation and soundproofing
Rubber or wood flooring to reduce cold air transfer through the floor
Mini split HVAC systems for compact heating and cooling
Even small improvements like weather stripping and draft stoppers around windows and doors can go a long way in making your container cozy.
Design Tip 4: Add Style Through Smart Materials
Just because you’re working with a shipping container doesn’t mean you need to settle for a bland, industrial vibe—unless that’s what you want, of course.
Here’s how to bring your style into the space:
Use wood cladding or reclaimed barn wood on the walls for a warm, rustic look
Paint with bold or muted colors that inspire your creativity
Hang curtains, tapestries, or acoustic panels to soften sound and elevate style
Incorporate floating shelves, pegboards, or vertical storage systems to save floor space
Your container should reflect your aesthetic and inspire your work, so don’t hold back on decorative details that make it feel like your space.
Design Tip 5: Use Storage Cleverly
A creative space is only functional when it’s organized. With limited square footage in a container, storage must be efficient and vertical whenever possible.
Try:
Tall shelving units with labeled bins
Overhead storage racks for seasonal items
Magnetic strips for tools or scissors
Rolling carts that tuck under workstations
Foldable desks or Murphy-style furniture for flexibility
If your mini studio doubles as storage for gear, hobbies, or seasonal decor, be sure to divide the space into “creative” and “utility” zones.
PODS and the Denver Homeowner
While there are many storage and moving companies out there, few match the urban adaptability and convenience that PODS offers in a place like Denver. The company delivers containers directly to your driveway or yard and picks them up when you’re finished—ideal for temporary studio setups or long-term creative use.
Because PODS containers come in different sizes, you can choose one that fits your property and purpose without overcommitting. And thanks to their durable steel build, they’re secure enough to house valuable equipment, electronics, and supplies, even during Denver’s unpredictable weather.
Bonus: Containers That Move with You
Let’s say you fall in love with your container studio, and eventually move to another neighborhood or property. The beauty of a portable setup is that it moves with you. A professional container provider can transport your fully packed studio across town or even across the state. That kind of mobility is rare in custom home design, and it gives creatives unmatched flexibility in a growing city like Denver.
Designing your own at-home creative space is more accessible than ever – especially when you think outside the usual four walls. By transforming a storage container into a mini studio, you gain a private, stylish, and flexible area tailored to your passions. Whether you’re painting, planning, or podcasting, your container studio can be the inspirational retreat you’ve been missing, all without the cost or commitment of a traditional build. Ready to bring your creative vision to life? All it takes is a well-placed container and a little imagination.
Color Combination: Sage green, cream, warm brass, natural botanicals
Who is it for: For families who want a living space that feels both polished and genuinely liveable. The parents who host book clubs and Sunday roasts, but also need somewhere the kids can sprawl with homework. Those who appreciate English country charm without the fuss of antiques.
Budget: $
Cosy English Family Room: Board with Shopping List
Below, we present a curated list of products presented on the board:
Tips and suggestions
Colors that Work Together: Sage green is having its moment, and for good reason—it’s sophisticated without being stuffy. The paneled accent wall in this muted green creates instant architecture, while cream upholstery keeps things light and airy. Those brass accents add warmth without the maintenance headaches of copper or the coldness of chrome.
Wall details: The board-and-batten paneling is classic English country, but scaled for modern living. It adds texture and visual weight without overwhelming the space. The brass sconces flanking the botanical print create perfect symmetry, and that simple gold frame keeps the artwork from competing with the wall treatment.
Furniture Foundation: The cream tufted sofa with brass nailhead trim strikes the perfect balance—formal enough for grown-up entertaining, comfortable enough for family movie nights. That matching accent chair creates a conversation area without blocking traffic flow, and the brass legs tie everything together visually.
Lighting: Those swing-arm brass sconces are both beautiful and functional—perfect for reading without casting shadows. The warm metal finish complements the sofa’s brass details, creating a cohesive look that feels intentional rather than matchy.
Finishing Touches: The white flowering branches in both floor and table planters bring life to the space without the commitment of fresh flowers. That textured area rug grounds the seating area and adds another layer of cosy texture underfoot.
The Final Note: This room works because it embraces the English love of comfort without sacrificing style. The sage green feels fresh and current, while the traditional elements—the paneling, the botanical art, the brass details—give it staying power. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but relaxed enough for real family life, which is exactly what a family room should be.
If cleaning can feel like a bit of a chore, then you’ll want to switch your radio on, as cleaning experts have revealed that listening to music while cleaning and decluttering can help improve your concentration.
The idea is that your favourite music keeps you focused on the task at hand, as your mind is less likely to drift onto other distractions. This is how it works.
(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)
Should you listen to music while cleaning
Honestly, there’s not much I do without my headphones. Listening to music has always helped me focus at work, at the gym, and I’d never step on public transport without Spotify. As someone with dyslexia, music has always acted as some sort of ‘white noise’ to keep me focused.
Cleaning is no exception. Whether I’m washing my floors with the best mop or cleaning my oven, I can assure you I have a playlist blasting in my ears. I’m not alone in this sentiment, as the cleaning experts at Method have released a new cleaner inspired by music.
(Image credit: Future PLC/Phil Barker)
Scented with luxurious saffron and oud, Method Deep House (£2.75 on Amazon) launched after research by the cleaning brand proves we’re a nation that needs music to clean.
Over a third (37%) of Brits believe a great playlist is the number one thing that makes deep cleaning better. More than half (51%) say they regularly listen to music when tackling a house clean as it makes them feel motivated (40%), energised (39%) and happy (28%). Furthermore, 36% of those surveyed carefully selected their playlist to reflect their mood. I know I need a cheesy hit if I’m planning to tackle a job I hate, like cleaning a washing machine.
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(Image credit: Future PLC/Rachael Smith)
‘Music can help with concentration during a range of tasks, including cleaning. The logic is that it reduces distractions from external noise while also boosting your mood. After all, if you put on your favourite playlist, you can’t not be in a good mood!’ says Michael Bogoyavlenskiy, CEO at Cleaning Express.
‘Generally, instrumental music is the best option because there aren’t any words to focus on. However, provided it’s giving you something to concentrate on that isn’t the cleaning task, any type of music you like will work fine.
‘It’s worth mentioning, though, that it might be best to avoid anything too heavy or distracting if you’re doing a job that requires concentration. For example, if you’re sorting through a stack of letters or other clutter that you need to pay attention to, it’ll be best to use more relaxing music. In this situation, jazz or classical will probably work best.
‘For cleaning and decluttering jobs that you don’t particularly enjoy (hoovering or dusting are big ones here), switch back to something upbeat. A high BPM song or something with a steady, rhythmic beat is great for getting into a groove when doing a repetitive task like hoovering.’
Cleaning essentials
Get your groove on with these cleaning essentials
Method
Natural Cleaning Set, Kitchen, Bathroom and All-Purpose Sprays, 828ml Bottles, Pack of 3
I love Method’s daily sprays. They smell amazing and leave my home clean and fresh.
Scrub Daddy
Damp Duster
This damp duster is incredible at eliminating dust at home and is a popular favourite amongst the Ideal Home team.
The Pink Stuff
The Pink Stuff Paste 850g
Tough on trainers, saucepans, cooker tops, sinks, uPVC, barbecues, ceramic tiles, glass, showers, garden furniture, paintwork, brass and rust, everyone need this handy product in their cleaning caddy.
What’s your favourite song to clean to? Do you like a bit of Madonna for the laundry or do you prefer some Take That for hoovering? Let us know!
