Home And Garden

Scorching weather often reduces gardens (and gardeners!) to a parched, shabby mess, but a targeted programme of watering and cutting back can work wonders

For those looking to enjoy the best of countryside living without sacrificing convenience, East Sussex has plenty to offer. From the picturesque landscapes of the High Weald to the rolling hills of the South Downs, two Elivia Homes developments are bringing new homes to desirable locations within the county.

Once regarded as one of the most functional rooms in the house, contemporary bathrooms have evolved into something altogether more indulgent – a personal sanctuary that promotes relaxation and wellbeing

As the garden is in full summer bloom, Teddy muses over the variety of flowers and discovers that some have very interesting names, as Helen Stockton, his human translator, explains

This summer, swap screens for safari mode – and let nature lead the adventure with these ideas for entertaining the kids over the school holidays

Interior styling tends to receive most of the design attention in a home. The recent Homes Extra: Small Space. Big Style article showed how much can be achieved within four walls. From the outside, though, the picture can be very different. A tired front door, a faded garage, or a dim path after dusk can quietly drag the whole frontage down. Summer is a useful season for these jobs, with the longer evenings allowing time for them. The weather behaves itself for most of the wo

In recent years, the open-plan living space has been embraced, but there are times a quiet, separate space is needed. Hence, the rise of the snug or a second sitting room.

In a world increasingly shaped by screens and schedules, encouraging children to step outside and engage with nature has never been more valuable

Iris, the Grecian messenger of the Olympian Gods, flew in a rainbow ribbon of celestial light - such sumptuous flowers could not be better named. And, on a more down-to-earth note, pesky squirrels, deer and rabbits leave them alone,

Sustainable interiors are on trend – vintage finds, recycled materials and thoughtful design prove that eco-conscious homes can be just as stylish and aspirational as any other

Pumpkins, courgettes and marrows, (collectively labelled ‘squash’) are members of a diverse botanical group: cucurbits. They are well-adapted to outdoor living – although the cucurbit family also includes aubergines, cucumbers and melons that typically require the protection of a greenhouse.

The Seasons Wholefoods Named 2026 Independent Local Shop / Village Store of the Year and South East at the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards

As temperatures rise and light levels change, homes benefit from subtle shifts that make them feel cooler, calmer and more breathable. Softening a home for warmer months doesn't require redecorating or major expense. Often, it's about adjusting textures and finishes to reflect the season.

Living in a small space is less about compromise and more about intention – smart zoning and clever storage can transform even the smallest home into a space with serious style.

Bees and other pollinating insects are vital to our food and wildflowers. Did you know there are about 270 species of bees in the UK? And that out of all the pollinating insects, they are one of the most effective because they visit such a large variety of crops? Without them farmer’s crops would suffer, your allotment or veg patch in your garden wouldn't prosper, and the countryside would be a dull and dreary place with much fewer flowers.

Returning for a seventh event at the world-renowned Goodwood Racecourse in the heart of the picturesque Sussex Downs, 95 exhibitors, each of whom you will be able to meet, will be situated throughout the main hall of The March Stand with 3000+ artworks for purchase.

We all know that a solid eight hours makes you feel amazing – refreshed and ready to take on the world – but that can be challenging in our fast-paced, constantly connected world. The question is, do you tumble into crumpled sheets and hope for the best, or are you ready to transform your sleep environment?

Why do a deep clean once a year when you can design your home for maximum cleaning ease, all year round

Time to get ahead with some essential tasks before the springtime mayhem begins, writes Flo Whitaker

Flo Whitaker explains how to keep your garden irrigated throughout summer - and makes an appeal for ‘slow watering’...