Modern farmhouse furniture and style blends the warmth and familiarity of traditional country homes with the clean lines and restraint of modern design. It’s relaxed but intentional, rustic without feeling dated, and practical without looking utilitarian. At its best, modern farmhouse interiors feel lived-in, calm, and quietly confident — never fussy, never forced.
This style works particularly well for people who want their homes to feel comfortable and personal, but still thoughtfully styled. It embraces natural materials, honest craftsmanship, and neutral colour palettes, while borrowing subtle contemporary elements to keep farmhouse looks feeling fresh rather than nostalgic.
In this guide, we’ll explore what defines modern farmhouse decor, the furniture that works best room by room, colour schemes that set the right tone, materials to prioritise, and the finishing touches that make the whole look feel authentic rather than staged.
What Defines Modern Farmhouse Style?
At its core, modern farmhouse design is about balance. It takes familiar farmhouse elements — wood, simplicity, practicality — and pares them back using modern principles like clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on function.
Key characteristics include:
A neutral, nature-inspired colour palette
Solid, well-proportioned furniture with simple silhouettes
Natural materials with visible texture and grain
A mix of old and new rather than a single “theme”
Comfort as a design priority
Unlike traditional farmhouse style, which can lean heavily into vintage references, a modern farmhouse look avoids excessive ornamentation. There’s no need for distressed everything, novelty signs, or overly rustic finishes. Instead, the look feels grounded, calm, and timeless — the kind of home that ages gracefully rather than chasing trends.
Colour Palettes for Modern Farmhouse Interiors
Colour plays a huge role in shaping the mood of a modern farmhouse home. The palette is typically restrained, drawing inspiration from nature rather than bold trends.
These shades create a calm backdrop that allows texture and materials to take centre stage.
Accent Colours
Accent colours are usually muted and earthy rather than bright. Popular choices include:
Sage green and olive
Soft blues and blue-greys
Warm terracotta and clay tones
Charcoal and soft black
These colours are often used sparingly — on an island, a piece of furniture, or through accessories — to add depth without overwhelming the space.
Materials That Define Modern Farmhouse Style
Material choice is where modern farmhouse design really comes alive. The emphasis is on authenticity, texture, and durability and natural elements.
Wood
Wood is the backbone of the style. Opt for real wood wherever possible, whether reclaimed, lightly finished, or painted. Visible grain, knots, and natural variation add character and warmth.
Metals
Metal accents bring a subtle modern edge. Matte black, aged brass, and brushed steel are all popular choices. Use metal sparingly — in lighting, hardware, or modern furniture frames — to keep the look balanced.
Textiles
Natural fabrics help soften the space and add comfort. Linen, cotton, wool, and jute all work beautifully. Think relaxed curtains, textured cushions, and layered bedding rather than anything overly crisp or shiny.
Stone and Ceramics
Stone surfaces, ceramic accessories, and handmade pottery introduce another layer of texture. These materials feel grounded and timeless, reinforcing the farmhouse influence without tipping into rustic cliché.
Modern Farmhouse Living Room Furniture & Decor
The modern farmhouse living room is designed for comfort first, with style woven in quietly rather than shouted. It should feel welcoming, relaxed, and genuinely lived-in — a space that invites you to sit down, put your feet up, and stay a while. While the look draws on traditional farmhouse roots, modern interpretations focus on simplicity, balance, and thoughtful restraint.
Sofas and Main Seating
The sofa is usually the anchor of a modern farmhouse living room, and comfort is non-negotiable. Look for generously sized sofas with soft, supportive cushions and simple, unfussy lines. A neutral-toned sofa often works best — think linen, cotton blends, or performance fabrics in a neutral color palette of warm whites, stone, beige, or soft grey.
Slipcovered sofas are particularly popular, as they reinforce that relaxed farmhouse feel while remaining practical for everyday life. Slightly rolled arms or gently squared silhouettes feel more authentic than sharp, angular designs.
Additional seating should complement rather than compete. Armchairs in natural leather, woven cane, or textured upholstery introduce contrast and warmth. A mix of seating styles helps the room feel collected over time rather than bought as a matching set.
Coffee Tables and Accent Tables
Coffee tables in modern farmhouse living rooms tend to feel substantial and tactile. Solid wood tables with visible grain, plank tops, or trestle-style bases anchor the seating area and add warmth. Reclaimed or lightly weathered wood works well, but finishes should feel natural rather than overly distressed.
Side tables and accent tables are a chance to introduce subtle modern elements. Slim metal frames, gently curved shapes, or mixed materials keep the room from tipping too rustic. Balance is key — one heavier, grounding piece paired with lighter accents creates visual harmony.
Storage, Shelving and Media Units
Storage furniture in a modern farmhouse living room should be practical, well-proportioned, and visually calm. Low-profile wood furniture media units in natural or painted finishes help ground the room without dominating it. Look for simple panelled doors, open shelving, or discreet drawers rather than ornate detailing.
Open shelving works best when styled lightly. A small number of books, ceramics, and personal objects creates interest without clutter. Built-in shelves or alcoves can be softened with wood shelves or painted back panels to add depth.
Colour Palette and Layering
Living room home decor suits the full range of modern farmhouse colours, from soft neutrals to deeper accent tones. Warm whites, greige, taupe, and soft grey create a versatile base, while deeper shades like sage green, muted navy, charcoal, or earthy browns add richness and grounding.
Layering colour through textiles is often more effective than painting walls in bold tones. Cushions, throws, and rugs allow you to add warmth and contrast without overwhelming the space.
Rugs and Soft Furnishings
Rugs play an important role in anchoring the living space seating area and adding softness. Natural fibre rugs such as jute or sisal suit the farmhouse aesthetic, while wool rugs add comfort and warmth underfoot.
Soft furnishings should prioritise texture over pattern. Linen cushions, chunky knit throws, and subtly woven fabrics add depth without visual noise. Patterns, if used, tend to be understated — stripes, small checks, or gentle geometrics rather than bold prints.
Lighting and Atmosphere
Lighting in a modern farmhouse living room should feel layered and warm. Overhead lighting sets the tone, but it’s the secondary lighting that creates atmosphere. Table lamps with ceramic or fabric bases, wall sconces in metal finishes, and floor lamps with simple shades all work beautifully.
Avoid overly industrial fixtures or stark, cold lighting. Warm bulbs and soft diffused light help create that cosy, welcoming glow the style is known for.
Decorative Accessories and Finishing Touches
Accessories are where personality really shines. Modern farmhouse living rooms benefit from a mix of old and new — a vintage mirror, handmade ceramics, framed artwork, or a well-worn book stack.
Woven baskets provide practical storage for throws or magazines while reinforcing the natural texture theme. Plants and greenery soften the space and add life, particularly when paired with simple ceramic or terracotta pots.
Resist the urge to over-style. A modern farmhouse living room should feel easy and relaxed, not overly curated. Empty space is just as important as decoration.
What to Avoid in a Modern Farmhouse Living Room
To keep the look fresh and modern, it’s worth avoiding:
Overly distressed or faux-aged furniture
Themed decor or novelty farmhouse signage
Too many matching pieces
Cold, high-gloss finishes
The goal is a classic farmhouse style room that feels timeless and personal rather than trend-led.
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Furniture and Decor
The modern farmhouse kitchen is where practicality, warmth, and everyday beauty meet. It should feel welcoming and hardworking rather than overly styled — a space designed for real cooking, gathering, and daily routines, not just for show.
Kitchen Layout and Flow
Open or semi-open layouts suit modern farmhouse kitchens particularly well, allowing the space to feel sociable and relaxed. Islands often form the heart of the room, acting as a prep surface, dining spot, and gathering point all in one. Where space allows, generous walkways and clear sightlines help the kitchen feel calm and functional rather than crowded.
If you’re working with a smaller kitchen, the farmhouse principles still apply: prioritise good storage, keep finishes simple, and allow materials and texture to do the work rather than adding visual clutter.
Cabinets and Joinery
Shaker-style cabinetry is the most common choice, but modern farmhouse kitchens tend to favour flatter profiles and minimal detailing. Doors with subtle bevels or slim frames feel fresher than heavily panelled designs.
Painted cabinetry in warm whites, soft greys, sage green, muted blues, or clay tones works beautifully. Many kitchens now use a two-tone approach — lighter cabinets on the perimeter with a darker or more characterful island to anchor the space.
Open shelving can soften the room and introduce personality, but it works best when used sparingly. A few wooden shelves displaying everyday ceramics or glassware feel natural; entire walls of open shelves can quickly feel impractical.
Worktops and Surfaces
Worktops are a key opportunity to balance rustic charm with modern practicality. Popular choices include:
Quartz or composite stone with a soft, natural appearance
Honed marble or marble-effect surfaces for a subtle farmhouse nod
Solid wood worktops used selectively, such as on an island
Highly polished finishes can feel too sleek for this style, while ultra-rustic surfaces may feel dated. The sweet spot is somewhere in between — refined but not precious.
Dining Areas and Kitchen Seating
Where kitchens include dining areas, furniture should feel sturdy and welcoming. Solid wood farmhouse tables with simple legs or trestle bases are a natural fit. Mixing seating — chairs, outdoor benches, or stools — helps create that lived-in, unfussy farmhouse feel.
Textiles play a role here too. Upholstered dining chairs in neutral fabrics soften the space and make it feel more comfortable for everyday use and look great positioned around a farmhouse dining table.
Lighting in the Kitchen
Lighting in a modern farmhouse kitchen should be layered and warm. Pendant lights over islands or dining tables act as both practical lighting and visual anchors. Shades in metal, glass, or ceramic with simple forms work best.
Under-cabinet lighting adds function without disrupting the overall look, while wall lights or small accent lamps can help the kitchen feel less stark in the evenings.
Modern Farmhouse Bedroom Furniture & Decor
Modern farmhouse bedrooms are all about calm, comfort, and softness. These spaces should feel like a retreat — grounded and cosy without being heavy or overly rustic. The emphasis is on quality materials, gentle textures, and a sense of ease.
Bed Frames and Focal Points
The bed is the natural focal point of the room, and modern farmhouse bedrooms tend to favour designs that feel solid but understated. Wooden bed frames with clean lines, simple panelled headboards, or softly curved silhouettes work well.
Upholstered headboards in linen or cotton are also popular, particularly in neutral shades. They add warmth and softness while keeping the overall look refined and modern.
Avoid overly ornate carvings or distressed finishes — simplicity is what keeps the style feeling current.
Bedside Tables and Nightstands
Bedside tables in a modern farmhouse bedroom should feel functional and grounded. Solid wood pieces with drawers or shelves are ideal, offering both storage and visual weight.
Matching bedside tables aren’t essential. Slight variation — perhaps different finishes or shapes — can make the room feel more relaxed and personal, provided the pieces are similar in scale.
Storage Furniture and Wardrobes
Storage should blend seamlessly into the room rather than dominate it. Dressers, wardrobes, and chests of drawers work best when they’re well-proportioned and made from natural materials.
Painted finishes in soft neutrals or muted colours feel especially calming in bedrooms, while wood grain adds warmth and character. Hardware should be simple and tactile, such as wooden knobs or understated metal pulls.
Textiles and Layering
Textiles play a huge role in shaping the mood of a modern farmhouse bedroom. Layered bedding — sheets, duvets, quilts, and throws — creates that inviting, sink-in feel the style is known for.
Stick to natural fabrics where possible:
Linen for breathability and texture
Cotton for softness and ease
Wool or chunky knits for warmth and depth
Patterns are usually subtle — fine stripes, checks, or softly woven textures in earthy tones, rather than bold prints.
Colour and Atmosphere
Bedrooms suit a slightly warmer, softer palette than other rooms. Creams, warm whites, pale greys, and taupes create a restful base, while subtle pops of color accents, like muted greens, dusty blues, or soft terracotta, add interest without disrupting the calm.
Lighting should be warm and gentle. Bedside lamps, wall-mounted reading lights, and softly diffused overhead lighting help create a layered, restful atmosphere rather than harsh brightness.
Accessories and Personal Touches
Accessories in a modern farmhouse bedroom should feel minimal and meaningful. A few framed prints, a ceramic lamp base, a woven basket, or a wooden stool is often enough.
Plants, where light allows, add softness and life. Above all, the room should feel personal — not styled to perfection, but thoughtfully put together.
Modern Farmhouse Bathroom Style
A modern farmhouse bathroom should feel calm, clean, and quietly restorative — somewhere that balances everyday practicality with a sense of gentle luxury. The key is to avoid anything overly rustic or overly sleek. Instead, think warmth, texture, and simplicity, layered with modern finishes that make the space feel fresh rather than nostalgic.
Bathroom Furniture and Vanities
The vanity is usually the anchor of a modern farmhouse bathroom. Wooden vanity units work particularly well, especially those with simple shaker-style doors, flat-front drawers, or open shelving underneath. Natural oak, painted finishes in soft white or warm grey, or muted colours like sage or blue-grey all sit comfortably within the style.
Freestanding furniture-style vanities are another popular option. These bring in that farmhouse sense of character while still feeling intentional and design-led. Avoid ornate legs or heavy carving — clean lines and solid proportions keep things modern.
Open shelving can also work well, particularly in smaller bathrooms. Wooden shelves with neatly folded towels, baskets, and ceramics add warmth without clutter.
Baths, Showers and Sanitaryware
Freestanding baths are a classic choice for modern farmhouse bathrooms, especially simple slipper or roll-top styles with a more streamlined silhouette. Paired with modern taps in brushed brass, aged bronze, or matte black, they strike the perfect balance between traditional and contemporary.
Walk-in showers with clear glass screens keep the space feeling open and modern. Metro tiles, vertically stacked tiles, or lightly textured stone-effect tiles all work beautifully here, especially in soft neutral tones.
Sanitaryware should be simple and unfussy. Clean lines, soft curves, and minimal detailing help the room feel timeless rather than trend-driven.
Materials and Surfaces
As with the rest of a modern farmhouse home, materials matter. Natural textures bring warmth and softness to what can otherwise feel like a cold, functional space.
Wood adds character and warmth, especially when sealed properly for bathroom use
Stone or stone-effect tiles introduce texture and a sense of longevity
Ceramic tiles with a handmade or slightly imperfect finish feel relaxed and authentic
Avoid high-gloss, overly polished surfaces wherever possible. Matte and satin finishes tend to feel more in keeping with the style.
Colour Palette for Farmhouse Bathrooms
Neutral tones form the backbone of most modern farmhouse bathrooms. Soft whites, creams, warm greys, and pale taupes create a calming backdrop that reflects light well and makes the space feel fresh.
Accent colours are usually subtle and nature-inspired. Sage green, muted blue, clay tones, or charcoal work well on vanity units, tiles, or painted panelling. Black is often used sparingly for taps, lighting, or mirrors to add contrast and definition.
Accessories and Finishing Touches
Accessories should feel useful as well as decorative. Think woven baskets for storage, simple ceramic soap dispensers, wooden stools, and soft cotton or linen towels. Mirrors with slim metal frames or gently curved wooden frames fit the style beautifully.
Plants are a natural addition if the room allows — they soften the space and reinforce that connection to nature that modern farmhouse interiors do so well.
Lighting in a Modern Farmhouse Bathroom
Lighting should feel warm and flattering. Wall lights either side of a mirror, simple pendant lights, or small sconces in metal finishes help layer the space and avoid harsh overhead lighting.
The end result should be a bathroom that feels relaxed, practical, and quietly elegant — a space that supports daily routines while still offering moments of calm. Modern farmhouse bathrooms don’t try too hard, and that’s exactly where their charm lies.
Accessories and Finishing Touches For a Modern Farmhouse Interior
Accessories are where a modern farmhouse space really become personal. The goal isn’t to fill every surface, but to choose a few favorite items that feel meaningful and considered.
For example:
Simple ceramic vases
Woven baskets for storage
Soft throws, plush pillows, cushions and decorative pillows
Subtle artwork, landscapes, or abstract prints
Vintage or antique pieces mixed with modern finds, such as candle holders, lamps or ornaments.
Avoid novelty decor or overly themed items. Modern farmhouse style works best when it feels collected over time, not styled all at once.
Bringing It All Together
Modern farmhouse furniture and decor style is less about rigid rules and more about feeling. It’s about creating a home that feels welcoming, practical, and quietly beautiful — a place where everyday life is supported rather than staged.
By choosing well-made furniture, sticking to a calm colour palette, prioritising natural materials, and allowing space for imperfection, you can create a modern farmhouse home that feels genuinely lived-in and deeply personal.
It’s a style that invites you to slow down, settle in, and make your space truly your own — which is exactly why it continues to resonate in real homes, year after year.
I live in a Victorian mid-terrace home, so I have a verysmall garden. But while I don’t have oodles of space, I do have a lot of big garden ideas – and these two things don’t coexist very well. That’s why I couldn’t help my excitement when I spotted that this compact OUTSUNNY Garden Shed was reduced from £618.99 to £234.60 at Debenhams.
Like everyone else, I’m gearing up to spend the next few months enjoying the much-anticipated British summer. I want to tend to my plants in the sunshine, and hang out with friends and family (ideally with a burger and an ice cream in my hands). But with gardening tools, pots, cushions, dog toys and more cluttering up my small outdoor space, it’s not very relaxing.
So, I started searching the Debenhams garden storage sale for a compact shed that would help me hide and organise these ugly-but-practical garden items without taking over the entirety of my small garden – and I think I’ve found it!
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OUTSUNNY 4 x 3 ft Plastic Garden Shed
In smaller outdoor spaces, it’s always best to opt for small garden storage ideas. But anyone who has gone in search of a compact shed will know that it’s still pretty difficult, with even the smallest wooden sheds still being too large for cosier spaces.
However, the OUTSUNNY Plastic Garden Shed is the perfect size, measuring 4 x 3 ft. This means it’s nice and compact, but still has roomy storage for everything from lawn mowers to large outdoor cushions. It also comes in two different colourways, so you can choose between light grey and dark grey.
(Image credit: OUTSUNNY)
If you do have a slightly larger space and need to store bigger garden items, though, the OUTSUNNY 7 x 4ft Metal Garden Shed is also reduced from £557.99 to £213.35 at Debenhams – making it even cheaper than the smaller size.
Personally, the smaller option suits my Victorian terraced garden best, and I love that this space-savvy shed also comes with a window to let natural light into the space while adding some much-needed character to what could be a very ugly addition to a small garden.
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Plus, the vent above the door allows for proper airflow to prevent damp and mould from forming on your summer essentials throughout the year.
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
If you want extra peace of mind, the bargain OUTSUNNY shed also includes a secure latch lock, so you can rest easy knowing the contents are safe and sound. And for under £250, I really do think it’s a steal. Especially as it was over £600.
What I love most about this shed is that it builds on the garden wardrobe trend that’s taking over small gardens across the UK right now. This has allowed those who might typically avoid sheds to find more compact options that suit these smaller spaces – meaning small home dwellers can tackle garden clutter right there and then.
But these aren’t the only Debenhams garden storage deals to be had right now, and I’ve popped some of my favourites below.
OUTSUNNY Wooden Garden Storage Shed w/Hinged Roof and Shelf
If you’re really lacking space, this much smaller garden storage option could work wonders. The shelf can also act as a makeshift potting bench.
Berkfield Home Garden Storage Box
No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you – this garden storage box really has been discounted by over £700! And it’s ideal for smaller gardens.
This cute-but-compact shed is also on sale right now. It comes in four different colourways, but the blue is my favourite.
Yes, small gardens CAN have storage too! And it’s just a bonus when it’s on sale.
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Former EastEnders star, actress and podcaster Natalie Cassidy has created a stunning doorscape of eucalyptus, and I’m obsessed. Its high-impact display has convinced me that we should decorate our front doors and entryways year-round.
If you’ve been looking for new front door ideas, I’ll bet you haven’t considered a doorscape. While the home decor trend is becoming increasingly popular, it’s still vastly associated with holidays such as Christmas and Halloween – until now.
Natalie Cassidy’s calming eucalyptus display, which uses faux eucalyptus stems to create soft, bushy, framing foliage, is all the doorscape inspo you need, if you want a display you can show off all year round.
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There are plenty of good reasons to make your front door look expensive. Not only does it boost your home’s curb appeal, but it is also always nice to return to a beautiful, welcoming home. Natalie Cassidy’s doorway shows a creative way to achieve this sentiment.
‘We chose different shades of calming eucalyptus for this design, Nat wanted something evergreen and long-lasting that would last through the different seasons and something that we could add to later on in the year if she fancied a change,’ Hayley Lyons, founder of the Door Display Company, who designed Natalie’s doorscape, explained to me.
‘We chose muted pale shades of green and silvery green eucalyptus that would give some colour and textured decoration to Natalie’s doorway, achieving a soft and natural look.’
On the Instagram post revealing the new doorscape, Natalie Cassidy said: ‘So beautiful and simple. Brings me peace. ❤️’. Eucalyptus is renowned for its calming properties, and while the eucalyptus used for this doorscape uses artificial foliage, it still achieves a calming, welcoming look.
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‘We chose to use premium grade silk artificial eucalyptus for this design to give longevity as the goal was to have something beautiful but long lasting that could last through the different seasons,’ said Hayley.
‘By choosing this design, it looks amazing on its own but is also very versatile, and as the seasons change, we have the option to add in some airy florals throughout the summer or berries and foliage for autumn and winter if Nat wanted something different.’
Are doorscapes trending?
Natalie Cassidy’s eucalyptus doorway also points to a wider trend, but reveals a way to make it work all year round. I’m sure you’ve all seen viral doorscapes on Instagram – especially Stacey Solomon’s pumpkin doorscape and Christmas display.
But by using simple foliage, Natalie’s door is a subtle take on the trend, and one that can be enjoyed through everyday life using some great affordable stems that create a very realistic effect when styled well.
‘Our entryways are the first impression of our homes and can be styled seasonally throughout the year, not just at Christmas,’ explains Natalie Evans, founder and CEO of home styling and staging company Little Barn Door.
‘Thoughtful exterior styling adds personality, warmth, and character to a property, creating a more inviting atmosphere. From fresh spring foliage to autumnal textures, dressing a front door can become an extension of your interior style.’
‘A carefully styled doorway adds softness, texture, and visual interest, making the home feel more luxurious and curated. However, restraint is important. Oversized or overly dense displays can overwhelm the space rather than enhance it.
‘These installations can be difficult to perfect and require careful consideration. The symmetry of the doorway, the scale of the foliage, and the overall visual weight all play an important role in creating a balanced look.’
(Image credit: Future PLC/Mark Luscombe Whyte)
You don’t want to swamp your front door with foliage. This can instantly make the front of your house look crowded and, for lack of a nicer word, tacky. Natalie emphasises that less is always more if you want to achieve a tasteful look.
‘To recreate this style in a more refined way, I would begin with a softer, asymmetrical framework using lighter foliage such as eucalyptus, olive branches, or wispy seasonal stems. Fresh stems bring beautiful natural scent and movement, although they do have a shorter lifespan,’ she says.
‘For a more practical long-term option, high-quality faux eucalyptus can work beautifully too. IKEA has some great affordable stems that create a very realistic effect when styled well.’
Get the look
Leixi
24pcs Artificial Eucalyptus Stems
Famibay
Famibay Artificial Eucalyptus Garland With Roses
HomeKaren
Eucalyptus Wreaths for Front Door
I love seeing pretty doorscapes through autumn and Christmas, but Natalie Cassidy’s eucalyptus display is proof that we can enjoy this front door style all year round. All I need now is a bunch of eucalyptus…
Lego lunches are the new food prep trend taking over the most organised corners of the internet and the buyers over at Aldi must have heard all about it given their launch of a £3.99 Portion Perfect Meal Kit, in stores from this Sunday (the 24th of May).
If you’re about to start climbing into the loft to retrieve your old Lego then hold fire, as while this trend takes inspiration from the iconic mini bricks, it’s actually a sturdy perfectly-portioned food container you’ll need to take part, as well as one of the best microwaves.
By using modular food prep buys, like Aldi’s brand new ones, Lego lunches allow you to combine different frozen leftovers into one meal – giving increased variation and the opportunity to mix and match foods. Here’s a closer look at how Lego lunches and modular food containers work.
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CROFTON
Portion Perfect Meal Kit
Starting from £3.99 each, these food prep containers are a total bargain if you want to food prep efficiently. You can choose from the 3 or 4 compartment version.
The beauty of a Lego lunch is variation. With special compartmented freeze pods you can portion up individual batches of different foods – a portion of chilli, say – and then only defrost and heat up a single portion for your lunchbox.
Picking up a few of these modular containers is an even better bet, as it means you can combine a single portion of your main protein with a side of frozen vegetables and then combine them together as you cook them in a microwave.
If you can’t make it to your closest Aldi to pick up the £3.99 versions then there are plenty of alternatives that already have a legion of fans that you can turn to.
The brand that you’ll find is most ubiqitous when it comes to Lego lunches is Souper Cube, who offer a huge and quite amazing range of freeze containers and accessories.
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You can buy the brand’s silicone moulds in a huge variation of sizes on Amazon, with shapes fit for everything from stews to cookies. There are even stoneware cubes (from £39.99 on Amazon) you can pick up for heating and serving your leftovers in.
(Image credit: Souper Cubes)
Souper Cubes are very popular in the US, but it didn’t take long for our favourite UK stores to come up with their own versions of these very clever food prep buys. Lakeland‘s Freeze Pods start from just £7.99 and also come in the two-zone and three-zone configuration. They’re BPA-free and made of that same handy silicone material to make popping out the portions of food super easy.
If you really want to max out on food prep organisation, then a heated lunchbox means you can warm up those cubed leftovers without the need for a microwave – perfect for anyone who works on the go. Here’s a closer look at the full selection of alternative modular buys you can pick up to optimise your lunchtimes.
Lakeland
3-Portion Freeze Pod
These excellent Lakeland freezer containers are such good value for under £10 and are available in a two-zone design too.
NobleNookich
Electric Lunch Box 1.5L
Upgrade your Lego lunch and eat it absolutely anywhere with this well-reviewed electric lunch box from Amazon. It has an impressive 4.6 star rating.
Souper Cubes
Silicone Freezer Tray With Lid 2-Pack
Souper Cubes have the widest range of modular food prep containers on the market and are well-loved by fans of the brand. This 4-slot configuration is great for batch cookers.
I’m desperate to try out the Lego lunch trend for myself, so I’ll be heading straight to Lakeland to check out their versions. Can you see the appeal in a modular freezing system?
Sorry, garden parasols, Aldi’s sleek sun sail is the stylish shade solution that’d be perfect for small gardens and courtyard spaces.
If you’ve been looking for stylish garden shade ideas, yet have a small or courtyard garden, a sun sail can be a practical solution whilst still looking good. And, if this sounds like you, you’ll be pleased to learn that Aldi’s sun sail is launching in stores today (21 May).
Perfect for creating an oasis of shade this summer, here’s everything you need to – plus where to snap up a sun sail for even cheaper than Aldi!
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BELAVI
Garden Wing Tarp
Green Bay
Green Bay Sun Shade Sail
The best garden canopy ideas will protect you from both rain and shine – something you will definitely get both of during British summertime. And the latest Aldi sun sail does just that.
The Belavi Garden Wing Tarp (£14.99 is a durable garden wing tarp built to protect and perform in any weather. You can choose from a triangle or rectangular shape, depending on your garden’s size and your preference. It’s also available in either warm grey or dark slate.
The sail is easy to fold and therefore store, making it a practical choice if you also have a small shed or lack garden storage space. Plus, it’s also quick and easy to install; you just need something to tether it to, such as your garden fence or a tree.
At £14.99, the Aldi Garden Wing Tarp is a bargain price. However, it’s not the best price I’ve seen as Amazon’s Green Bay Sun Shade Sail is just £11.95 and comes with hundreds of reviews singing its praises.
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(Image credit: Aldi)
‘Very happy, quick postage and exactly what I wanted. I had one before in grey and left it out in all weathers, lasting over 2 years before I had to replace it… If you take it down when summer’s over (like I should have), it will last a lot longer. Good material and sturdy metal bits, had cheaper versions (not that much cheaper) that just rip and don’t have good quality metal or material used, this one is Great, and for the price you can’t go wrong,’ said one.
‘Great garden sale, excellent quality, great choice of colours, shapes and sizes, delighted with purchase,’ said another.
The Green Bay Sun Shade Sail is available in eight stylish colourways, covering a surface of 2x2x2m. It protects against rain and UV, making it a perfect choice for summer hosting. So much so, I’d choose this cover over Aldi’s.
Alternatively, here are a few more highly recommended and reviewed sun sails you can shop online.
Dunelm
Elements Grey Sail Parasol
Kookaburra
Kookaburra 3.6m Triangle Water Resistant Garden Patio
VOUNOT
Vounot® Sun Shade Sail Rectangle With Fixing Kit
If you lack space, a sun sail often trumps a garden parasol as you don’t have to worry about finding space for its chunky bases. Plus, they’re a more affordable option, too. It’s a win-win!
Lidl’s bladeless fan is returning to stores this week, and it couldn’t have returned at a better time. With the UK anticipating a heatwave for the bank holiday (fingers crossed), having a fan on standby is one of the best ways to keep cool. And even better, the Lidl Tronic Bladeless Fan is even cheaper than last year.
As the weather heats up and the summer months roll closer, it is always helpful to have one of the best fans to keep you cool and comfortable, especially if you don’t already have one of the best portable air conditioners.
Landing in stores tomorrow (21 May), Lidl’s bladeless fan is an affordable alternative to Dyson’s bladeless fan range, costing just £59.99 for the standard and £39.99 for a smaller model. Here’s how they shape up.
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TRONIC
White Large Bladeless Fan
Dyson
Dyson Cool™ Am07 Tower Fan (white/silver)
Russell Hobbs
Russell Hobbs Rhbldl12 Bladeless Tower Fan – White
Every year, both Lidl and Aldi launch affordable bladeless fans that share many of the desired features of higher-end brands. If you’re looking to keep cool on a budget, these affordable fans can be helpful when temperatures soar.
Plus, in case you’re wondering how much it costs to run a fan, the good news is that the best models are incredibly energy efficient. As per the July 2025 price cap, this is set at 0.257p/kWh, meaning that Lidl’s fan, which uses 35W, runs at just over 0.8p an hour. However, with the energy price cap predicted to increase this July by Cornwall Insight, it is likely that appliances will cost more to run this summer.
Lidl’s Tronic Bladeless fan is available in matte black or white. It has an LED display to show speed settings, the timer and operating modes. You can expect even air distribution, 20 speed settings to choose from, oscillating settings and four operating modes: normal, natural, sleep and power.
(Image credit: Lidl)
Also included is a remote control and battery, and the fan comes with a 3-year warranty. If you’re looking for a new desk fan, the mini bladeless shares many of the same features as the large, but has just 10 speeds and four buttons to turn it on/ off, adjust speed, timer or oscillation.
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‘Dyson fans are brilliant, but they do come with a hefty price tag, which means they aren’t affordable for everyone. Lidl’s alternatives are much more budget-friendly and will get you a similar look for a fraction of the price. However, while these more affordable options may look similar, the lower cost will likely mean they have fewer features, less power and may not be as quiet in their operation,’ commented Sarah Handley, Ideal Home’s Renovation and Home Energy Editor.
With an apparent heat wave imminent, I have a feeling these fans will be very popular. So, if your local store sells out fast, these are the best fans recommended by us that you can shop for online.
Meaco Sefte 10” Pedestal Air Circulator
Ideal Home‘s best-rated fan, it is exceptionally quiet, gentle and soft. It’s also been very thoughtfully designed, from lights and sounds that turn off when it’s in night mode and the variation of oscillation settings to the glow-in-the-dark and magnetic remote control.
Shark TurboBlade
Our tester couldn’t fault this fan on performance, despite it not being the quietest fan we’ve tested. Customisation is even possible with the TurboBlade, which means you and a partner can each opt for a preferred setting at the same time.
Silentnight Airmax Pro360 Pedestal Fan with Remote Control
This fan has quiet operation, decent wind speed options and ease of use – all with a sub-£100 price tag. It’s also super lightweight, so it’s easy to move around your home.
Summer is very nearly here, and the smart thing to do is ensure your cooling solutions are up to scratch now.
In smaller outdoor spaces, you often have to choose between creating a lounging space or a more formal outdoor dining area. But the genius John Lewis Platform garden dining/lounge set combined the two into one, so that you no longer have to choose – and it’s no surprise that customers are falling head over heels for this clever yet stylish design.
This best garden furniture design from John Lewis is not new, but it’s currently enjoying a lot of popularity as it takes the top spot as the retailer’s outdoor furniture bestseller.
‘We’ve seen demand soar with sales up by 12% year on year as customers look for new garden furniture that stands the test of time,’ says Scott Bartle, buyer for outdoor at John Lewis. ‘The Platform range is very popular with our customers because it perfectly solves the dilemma of having to choose between a stylish outdoor dining set and one that is practical.’
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John Lewis
Platform 8-Seater Corner Garden Dining/Lounge Set with Height-Adjustable Table in Green
John Lewis
Platform 8-Seater Corner Garden Dining/Lounge Set with Height-Adjustable Table in Grey
John Lewis
Platform 8-Seater Corner Garden Dining/Lounge Set with Height-Adjustable Table in Taupe
The dual functionality, offering a space both for lounging and dining and making it the perfect small garden idea, is thanks to the table being height adjustable – so the tabletop can be both raised to a dining table level and lowered to function as a coffee table.
Selling for £1499, the 8-seater set is available in three colourways – taupe which matches the frame to the cushions, dark green with beige cushions and dark grey with light grey cushions. The fact that the frame is made with aluminium is another benefit as it’s one of the most durable types of outdoor furniture that’s resistant to rust.
(Image credit: John Lewis)
‘The inspiration really came from the concept of “bringing the indoors out”. We wanted to design a collection that felt as refined and comfortable as your indoor living room, but engineered to withstand the British weather. We designed the Platform 8-seater corner set to make hosting a breeze. It features a clever pull-out side table, perfect for drinks and nibbles, and the height-adjustable main table effortlessly transforms your space from a laid-back lounge into a casual dining area,’ Scott at John Lewis explains.
And the hype behind this space-saving outdoor furniture set isn’t just coming from new customers shopping for it right now – but also from existing customers who can’t seem to stop singing this design’s praises. The product is currently boasting 28 five-star reviews.
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(Image credit: Future/Sara Hesikova)
One very happy reviewer wrote, ‘Absolutely delighted with the John Lewis Platform 8 seater garden dining/lounge set. The quality is outstanding – everything feels solid, well-made, and built to last. Assembly was a breeze, with clear instructions and all the parts fitting together perfectly. It’s incredibly comfortable, whether you’re lounging with a drink or sitting down for a meal. Easily seats eight people with plenty of room, making it ideal for entertaining family and friends. We’ve had so many compliments already. Couldn’t be happier with this purchase – stylish, functional, and exactly what we were looking for. Highly recommend!’
As if all of this wasn’t already enough, the Platform set is also incredibly comfortable as I myself experienced when visiting the John Lewis Oxford Street store earlier this year and then again only a few days ago.
7 Seater Beige Aluminium Corner Garden Dining Set with Height Adjustable Table
Jost like the John Lewis Platform set, this set is also made with aluminium. But instead of two benches, the set comes with two little stools in addition to the corner sofa.
Valentina Corner Lounge Dining Set with Adjustable Table
Sticking with aluminium, Atkin and Thyme’s Valentina outdoor set is a very similar design to the John Lewis Platform. The only real difference is the more muted shade of green the frame is covered in.
Scott concludes, ‘We’ve seen an increase in interest for modern, modular garden furniture on our site, and the Platform range was designed precisely to meet that demand for flexible, design-led outdoor living. It offers maximum comfort and ultimate versatility for any garden size.’
Side tables are truly having their moment right now. I’ve recently noticed, while trawling my favourite homeware sites looking for things I really don’t need, that there’s been a huge rise in funky kitsch side tables. You know the ones: they boast funky shapes, add colour that you otherwise wouldn’t dare to inject into your decor and better yet: make a statement in a room.
An easy way to add a little fun to your interiors, this is your sign to buy that funky side table you spotted and haven’t stopped thinking about since. The Urban Outfitters Martini Side Table is just one of the funky side tables going viral on social media at the moment, and this trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Kitsch side tables are coming in thick and fast from some of our favourite stores, such as Dunelm and Anthropologie.
Gone are the days of your coffee table ideas being your living room centrepiece. Why not let your side table take over as we’ve found 6 striking designs on the high street, with prices from £99. A low price to pay for a statement piece…
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Urban Outfitters
Martini Side Table
Crafted from steel and shaped like a Martini glass, this table comes with the fake olive decoration on top, and it’d be the perfect addition to a bar area, as an extra place to pop your cocktail.
Rockett St George
Mermaid Tail Side Table
Finished with a distressed, antique-effect brass look, this mermaid-tail-shaped table is a magnificent addition to a living room or even a bathroom, beside a deep tub. It’s the perfect perch for your favourite candle or cuppa.
Dunelm
Strawberry Ceramic Table
100% ceramic and 100% sweet, this strawberry side table offers an abundance of tabletop space for your drinks, while adding some red to your space. It’s the summer side table of the year.
Oliver Bonas
Lemon Striped Ceramic Side Table
Bring the Amalfi to your living room with this lemon decorated side table made from Eathenware. Featuring 3D lemons and blue stripes, it’s nice and subtle while still being different than most.
Anthropologie
Festa Outdoor Ceramic Stool
Arguably my favourite of the bunch, choose from Ciao or Salut and use these ceramic stools as an extra seat or a place to perch your drink in the garden. They look pretty when used as part of outdoor living room ideas, too.
Dunelm
Cherry Print Ceramic Side Table
Cute cherries galore! This ceramic kitsch side table is a safe option for those who’d rather hold back on the colour. Its cherry design is 3D, for extra effect.
Will you be dipping your toe into this playful homeware trend with one of these statement designs? I’ve got my eye on that mermaid tail!
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The Smeg name has been synonymous with stylish kitchen appliances for many years now in the UK, but in Italy, the brand’s heritage and influence stretch back much further.
That’s something I learned first-hand last week on a trip to Smeg’s incredibly impressive HQ, based in northern Italy, where I got access to a treasure trove of trademark pastel kitchen appliances.
As Ideal Home’s Kitchen Appliances Editor (and owner of a beloved Smeg toaster and kettle set), the part of the tour I most enjoyed was glimpsing all of the now-discontinued or limited edition pieces from Smeg’s collection – many of which are now extremely rare.
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As well as Smeg bean-to-cup machines and even air fryers in a palette of gorgeous colours, these were the Smeg appliances from the HQ that I was totally enchanted by on my trip – and I think you will be too!
1. A Barbie pink hidden dishwasher
Image 1 of 2
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
I’m usually so busy reviewing small appliances that I don’t have time to appreciate all of the wonderful large versions out there, but there was one thing on my tour of Smeg HQ that caught my eye immediately.
This Barbie pink waist-height appliance is masquerading as a fridge with its retro door, lettering and handle but behind the facade you’ll find a compact washing machine and sink set up that would complete any quirky pink kitchen scheme.
If the Barbie dream house was fitted with a washing machine, this would most certainly be it.
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First released in 2006, this washing machine has become a cult collector’s item – and for good reason. If your home isn’t big enough for a utility room, you have to get inventive with hiding your washing machine instead and this compact buy solves that problem in real style.
The inside of the outer door also has two hidden storage compartments, so there’s even more of an incentive with this machine if you love things being neatly tucked away.
As Smeg moved away from large freestanding appliances to focus on built-in units and those kettles, toasters and coffee machines that we all know and love, they stopped making this popular pink machine. But luckily they kept the much-loved colourway, so if you do want to add a pop of pink these are the Smeg buys we’ve tried you can buy it in.
Smeg
Espresso Machine with Steam Wand
Smeg
KLF05 Mini Kettle
Smeg
Personal Blender
2. Smeg x Fiat 500 drinks fridge
(Image credit: Smeg)
Next up is a true centrepiece, one that you can find in Smeg’s HQ in Italy and London, that I’m sure will make you do a double take. The Smeg x Fiat 500 Drinks Fridge features the front half of a 50s version of this classic Italian car.
But underneath the bonnet, rather than finding an engine, you’ll find a swish mini fridge that is more than capable of holding enough drinks to throw a fabulous party.
This very pricey design collaboration between these two Italian powerhouses was never a mainstream commercial product sold to consumers, but it still holds a huge charm when you see it in person.
It’s not just Smeg HQ where you can find one of these fridges, although they are exceptionally rare. So if you do spot one out in the wild, you can impressive everyone with your knowledge of this cult classic design piece.
3. Snoopy & Disney special editions
(Image credit: Future)
One corner of Smeg’s Italian showroom is dedicated to the brand’s best known creation: the iconic single door retro 50s style fridge. And while I was perusing all of the styles and colours, I noticed two very different versions.
The first was a fridge with Disney’s very recognisable Mickey Mouse plastered across it, closely placed near another that featured character Snoopy, from the American cartoon strip Peanuts.
So what’s the story behind these cartoon-inspired fridges? The Disney collection came first, released in 2018, and saw the creation of 90 Mickey Mouse inspired fridges – one to celebrate every year since Mickey’s inception. It was a huge hit with customers, and the extremely low number of fridges made mean this is a big time collector’s item.
Following in the footsteps of Mickey’s success, Snoopy’s mini fridge was released in 2020 (and then re-released in 2022) and uses the backdrop of the Smeg fridge door as a cartoonist’s easel. If you were to find either of these fridges in the wild these days, they would definitely fetch a pretty penny.
It wasn’t just the archive that I got a glimpse of at Smeg’s HQ – I was also wowed by the brand’s new and wonderfully sleek Isola range, which features induction hobs and cooker hoods.
Combining old cult classics and new cutting edge appliances, it seems there’s so much more from Smeg still to come and I for one can’t wait to see what’s next!
This week, the coveted Ninja Creami is landing in Lidl’s middle aisle, but before you rush off to your local store, I’ve found the summer must-have appliance cheaper at both Amazon and John Lewis.
Landing in stores on Sunday (24 May), Lidl will be stocking the much-loved Ninja Creami (which we’ve reviewed) for a limited time. And it couldn’t have come at a better time, as the UK expects a heat wave to hit over the weekend.
If you haven’t already discovered the joy of making your own ice cream at home, I’d say it’s time to get to know it. But as always, if you plan to head to Lidl, you’d better be quick, as when it’s gone, it’s gone.
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NINJA
Creami Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Maker
Ninja
Ninja Creami Ice Cream Maker
Ninja
Ninja Creami Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Maker
Lidl is undoubtedly known for its middle-aisle bargains, which range from the weird to the wonderful and everything in between. Most recently, their chic Lidl sun lounger, which looks like it came straight from the grounds of a posh hotel, made a bid to be the best sun lounger you could buy this summer.
Now, the budget supermarket is welcoming The Ninja Creami, and it’s perfect if you’re looking to whip up healthier ice-creams this summer. The Ninja Creami was first reviewed by our Digital Editor,Rebecca Knight, back in 2023. Impressed, she even commented in the review that friends and family had to stage a ‘mini-intervention’ to stop her from raving about the appliance.
Producing creamy homemade ice-creams, sorbets, smoothie bowls and milkshakes, this sleek appliance went viral after its launch. It looks more like a blender compared to a traditional ice-cream maker and works completely differently, requiring you to freeze your mixture before churning. Plus, with an abundance of ‘healthy’ protein-packed recipes on social media, it became a quick favourite with the health-obsessed, too.
The Ninja Creami in action, tested by Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight.
(Image credit: Future / Rebecca Knight)
The Creami usually retails for around £199.99, and Lidl is selling it for £159. However, it’s also on sale for even less than that right now at Amazon and John Lewis.
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So, on this occasion, Lidl is to be beaten on price. Because of this, if you’re looking to snap up the Ninja Creami, I’d suggest buying now while it is on sale, as these are the best prices I can find.
Alternatively, here are a few more affordable ice-cream makers.
ProCook
Professional Ice Cream Maker 1.2l
With no pre-freezing, this machine makes ice cream or sorbet in as quick as 60 minutes. Plus, with a 1.2L capacity, there’s enough for the whole family.
Cuisinart
Cuisinart Freeze Wand Ice Cream Maker
Cuisinart
Cuisinart 950ml Freeze Ease Ice Cream Maker
Producing ice-cream in just 40 minutes, this machine also require no pre-freezing. You can even add mix-ins like fruit and chocolate chips for a more deluxe treat.
In this instance, we say don’t head to Lidl – snap up the Ninja Creami while it is on sale at Amazon and John Lewis.
