Journal

There’s nothing like the thrill of a fresh start - knocking down walls, choosing paint swatches, or finally swapping the avocado-green bathroom suite for something you actually want to show guests. But here’s the thing: even with a juicy budget like £10,000, renovations can vanish quicker than your patience at a tile showroom.The good news? With some smart choices (and a few design cheats), you can stretch every pound to create a home that feels twice the budget. Here’s how to do it.

A renovation should feel exciting - the chance to finally knock through that wall, create a kitchen worthy of Nigella, or wake up in a bedroom that looks straight out of an interiors magazine. But here’s the rub: without a bit of foresight, that dream can quickly unravel into delays, blown budgets, and beige regret.The key? Learning from the mistakes others have made so you don’t have to. Pair a little planning with the right inspiration, and your £10k budget can go further than you ever imagined.

If you’re already pulling up floorboards, knocking through walls, or installing a new kitchen, now’s the time to sneak in storage you’ll thank yourself for later. Built-in solutions not only look sleeker than freestanding units, they make the most of those awkward nooks you’d otherwise ignore.Here’s how to bake storage into your renovation plans - without blowing your budget or style credentials.

Summer might be on its way out, but the best garden gatherings are only just beginning. Autumn brings that golden-hour magic, the excuse to layer up in knits, and the kind of slow, soul-warming food that deserves to be shared around a fire (or a very good grill).Whether you’ve got friends coming round or just fancy elevating a Sunday roast, here are our favourite ways to keep the alfresco vibes going - even as the temperature drops.

If 2024 was all about ‘quiet luxury’, 2025 has burst through the sliding glass doors with more colour, more texture, and a bigger focus on feeling good at home. Think earthy tones meeting dopamine brights, clever reuses of vintage finds, and kitchens designed for actual living, not just Instagram.Whether you’re mid-reno or just fancy freshening things up, these are the trends worth stealing - and how to get the look without sending your budget into freefall.

Summer afternoons were made for frosty treats that taste as good as they look. With the Ninja SLUSHi on your side you can turn everyday fruit, a dash of something fizzy and a few clever twists into bar-quality slushies that’ll keep your guests coming back for more. Read on for six flavour combos that are all about bright colour, fresh herbs and just enough sparkle to make your garden feel like your favourite cocktail bar - plus how to win your very own Ninja SLUSHi.

There’s something about summer that demands a soundtrack. Whether you’re flipping burgers, mixing spritzes, or just chasing the sun across your patio, music sets the tone. So we asked the Spruce team: what’s your go-to garden party playlist?From laidback jazzy grooves to dancefloor-ready bangers, here’s what we’ll be playing all season long.

You don’t need to rip out your kitchen or win the lottery to give your home a glow-up. Sometimes, it’s the small, clever changes that make all the difference - a new handle here, a fresh shade there. Whether you're Sprucing up a rental or just feeling a bit meh about your space, these budget-friendly swaps will breathe new life into your home (without draining your bank account).

Crispy edges. Airy pockets. That slight chew when you bite in. A truly great pizza crust feels effortless, but behind that slice is some serious science. Whether you are a weekend pizzaiolo or just curious about what makes those restaurant-worthy pizzas so good, here is what really goes into the perfect base.

When you think pizza oven, your mind probably jumps straight to bubbling mozzarella and crisp, charred crusts. And yes, the Ooni delivers that in 60 seconds flat. But here’s the thing: pizza ovens aren’t just for pizza nights. These little outdoor powerhouses can take your garden gatherings to the next level with dishes you’d never expect.Whether you’re hosting friends or just feel like showi

We are halfway through 2025, and UK gardens are looking better than ever. This year is all about sustainability, style, and social spaces. From wild planting to fully equipped outdoor kitchens, here is what is trending right now and why these ideas are not going anywhere.

In recent years, the way we socialise has shifted. Instead of crowded pubs or bustling restaurants, more and more of us are choosing to turn our gardens into the ultimate destination for dining, relaxing, and celebrating. Welcome to the age of outdoor living - where the fresh air meets fabulous food and good company, without leaving home.But what’s driving this trend? And more importantly, how can you make your own garden gatherings unforgettable? Let’s dive in.

There’s nothing better than a summer BBQ - smoky air, garden chatter, cold drinks, and of course, the sides. Whether you’re a crisp salad devotee or a carbs-all-the-way type, the right side dish can steal the show.In honour of our Big Green Egg BBQ + £1500 giveaway, we asked the Spruce team to share their go-to BBQ sides - the ones they bring to every garden gathering, family cookout, or casual grill night with friends. Here's what made the cut!

There’s something special about showing up with a gift. Not for show, not for obligation, but because you know what it’s like to host. The refilling of glasses, the lighting of candles, the last-minute clean, the is this enough salad? Spiral.

Because your morning cuppa deserves a little self-expression.We’re firm believers that the right mug just hits different.So, we asked the Spruce team to pick the mugs that speak to their hearts. From countryside charm to pared-back minimalism, there’s something here for everyone. Which one are you?

We asked the Spruce team to share their tried-and-tested favourites, the dishes they turn to when friends are coming over and they want to impress (without spending 5 hours in the kitchen).

Socks are fine. But this year, we’re aiming higher. Whether your dad’s a BBQ hero, garden tinkerer, post-gym stretcher, or low-key lager critic. We’ve pulled together 8 gift ideas that’ll go down a treat. They’re practical, premium, and just the right amount of fun.

When the weather’s warm and the blender’s loud, it’s officially frozen dessert season. And if you’ve had your eye on a Ninja CREAMi, now’s the time to pounce, we’re giving one away in our exclusive Ninja CREAMi prize draw, ending Friday 13 June, 9am.

Make pizza night unforgettable with 4 easy recipes, plus enter to win an Ooni Koda 16 pizza oven bundle with Spruce. Perfect for home hosting.

Your barbecue’s lit, the rosé’s on ice, and the courgettes are charring nicely, but the vibe’s only official once the right playlist kicks in. We’ve whittled our soundtrack down to four tried-and-true Spotify mixes, each matched to a classic garden-party moment. Hit play, crank the volume, and let the good-living commence.

Launching this week with over £3,000 in prizes ready to go!

If there’s one design trick that delivers maximum drama for minimum spend, it’s paint. A few well-chosen coats can turn a poky hallway into a statement entrance, make a rental kitchen look bespoke, or create the illusion of space in a room that’s barely bigger than a cupboard.It’s the easiest way to get that “renovated” feeling without calling in a single contractor - and it’s exactly the kind of clever move that helps stretch a budget like £10k even further. Here’s how small colour swaps can completely transform your home.

Discover 8 beautiful and practical cottage interior decorating ideas to create a cosy, timeless home. Get expert tips on colours, textures, and furnishings.

Discover 9 inspiring kitchen feature wall ideas, from exposed brick to living gardens. Transform your space with practical tips for a stunning focal point.

Discover 9 stunning living room colour ideas to refresh your space. From serene sage green to bold jewel tones, find your perfect palette for a stylish home.

Discover the complete UK planting calendar for 2025. Expert advice on what to sow each month to ensure a fruitful garden. Plan your planting today!

Discover 8 creative decking planter ideas to transform your outdoor space. From built-in solutions to vertical walls, find your perfect UK garden inspiration.

Learn how to brighten a dark room quickly with simple design tips on lighting, paint, and decor. Transform your space today!

Discover our curtain buying guide to choose fabrics, styles, and measurements with confidence. Transform your home today!

Learn how to grow herbs indoors with our complete UK guide. Get practical advice on light, soil, and choosing herbs for a thriving windowsill garden.

Discover 7 innovative washing line ideas to transform your laundry routine. Explore practical, space-saving, and stylish options for any UK home.

Discover your perfect deck paint idea with our guide. Explore 7 stunning trends, from solid stains to two-tone schemes, for a beautiful outdoor space.

Discover 8 creative and achievable pallet wood projects for your home and garden. Get step-by-step insights, tips, and inspiration for your next DIY.

Discover 9 magical Christmas lights ideas to illuminate your home and garden. From classic tree wraps to smart LEDs, get inspired for a dazzling display.

Discover the 7 best UK shops for stunning festive table decorations. Find unique centrepieces, linens & more to create your perfect seasonal tablescape in 2025.

Discover 7 stunning ideas to create your dream garden with water feature. From tranquil Zen ponds to modern rills, find your perfect design.

Discover lush, vibrant tropical garden ideas to transform your space. Explore 9 stunning concepts for planting, layout, and décor to create your own paradise.

Discover 10 stylish terrace house garden ideas to transform your small space. Get expert tips on vertical gardens, containers, and more for a stunning UK home.

Discover the 7 best plants for dark rooms that thrive in low light. Our guide offers detailed care tips to help you liven up any poorly lit space.

Discover practical and stylish garden tool storage ideas to keep your space tidy. Explore creative solutions from sheds to space-saving wall mounts.

Learn practical ways for protecting plants in winter with our UK guide. Discover tips on mulching, covering, and winterising your garden to ensure plant survival.

Master your garden year-round with our UK gardening calendar. Discover key monthly tasks for planting, pruning, and harvesting for a thriving outdoor space.

Discover 8 fresh design ideas to perfect your open plan kitchen living space. Explore layouts, material choices, and expert tips for a stylish home.

Discover 9 actionable home improvement tips for styling, DIY fixes, and budget upgrades. Transform your home and garden with our expert guide.

Learn how to start a vegetable garden with our UK-focused guide. Get expert tips on site selection, soil prep, and choosing plants for a thriving patch.

Discover genius craft storage ideas to declutter your creative space. Our list features DIY tips and clever solutions for an organised home.

Discover 9 inspiring small space gardening ideas for your balcony, patio, or windowsill. Grow more with these practical tips and creative solutions.

Discover expert tips on composting for small gardens. Learn how to turn waste into rich soil and improve your garden’s health today!

Unsure what to plant now UK? Discover our top 9 vegetables, flowers, and trees to plant this season for a thriving garden. Get expert tips and varieties.

Discover 8 clever long narrow garden ideas to maximise your space. From diagonal paths to vertical planting, transform your garden with our expert tips.

Discover 8 of the best indoor plants for beginners. Our guide helps you choose low-maintenance houseplants to add greenery to your home with confidence.

Explore 9 inspiring paint color ideas for your living room. Find the perfect paint color ideas for living room to refresh your space in 2025. Click for expert tips!

Explore expert lighting ideas for home to enhance your decor. Discover smart, layered, and statement solutions for every room's style and function.

Elevate your space with our curated guide to home decor seasonal trends. Discover 7 unique ideas and brands to refresh your home all year round.

Discover how to make a room cozy with our UK guide. Learn actionable tips on lighting, textiles, and colour to create a warm, inviting space you'll love.

Discover 8 beautiful and functional Scandi style kitchen ideas. Get expert tips on layouts, materials, and décor to create your dream minimalist kitchen.

Transform your space with our curated rustic living room ideas. Discover tips on wood, stone, textiles, and lighting for a cosy, stylish home.

Discover 9 stunning modern farmhouse kitchen ideas to transform your space. Get inspiration on shiplap, sinks, and lighting for a chic and cosy home.

Discover the best UK sources for minimalist bedroom decor. Our guide explores 7 top retailers and inspiration hubs to create your serene, stylish space.

Discover 9 brilliant and cheap home decor ideas to transform your space on a budget. Get inspired with DIY projects, thrifting tips, and styling hacks!

Explore 9 fresh modern country decorating ideas to blend rustic charm with contemporary style. Get practical tips for a cosy, sophisticated UK home.

Struggling with a small space? Discover our top small living room layout ideas to maximise style and function, with clever tips for every home. UK edition.

Discover the 9 definitive interior design trends 2024 that are still shaping homes. Get expert tips and fresh ideas from Spruce Collective.

Unlock your home's potential with these clever small living room layout ideas. Discover tips to maximise space, improve flow, and boost style in a compact room.

Discover 8 top drought tolerant plants UK gardens need. Our guide covers lavender, sedum, and more for a stunning, water-wise garden this year.

Discover 10 stylish and practical low maintenance garden ideas. From xeriscaping to container gardens, create a beautiful outdoor space with less work.

Discover 7 inspiring small garden ponds ideas to transform your space. From container gardens to wildlife havens, find your perfect pond design.

Discover 9 stunning garden border plant ideas to transform your space. Get expert tips on plants like Lavender, Hostas, and Boxwood for a beautiful UK garden.

Uncover 7 inspiring secret garden ideas to create your own hidden oasis. Explore designs from walled sanctuaries to zen retreats for a private escape.

Discover 9 creative garden entertaining ideas to transform your outdoor space. From movie nights to themed parties, find inspiration for your next event.

Discover 7 incredible garden wall feature ideas to transform your outdoor space. From living walls to bespoke metal art, find your perfect match.

Discover 10 ingenious small space decorating ideas to maximise your home. From multifunctional furniture to clever storage, transform your space today.

Discover the 12 best bathroom lighting sources in the UK for 2025. Our guide covers top styles, tips, and retailers to illuminate your space perfectly.

Discover 10 stunning kitchen island design ideas to transform your space. From waterfall edges to smart storage, find your perfect style for 2025.

Discover 10 practical and inspiring cosy home ideas to create a warm, inviting sanctuary. From lighting to textures, elevate your decor today.

Discover 9 inspiring gallery wall ideas to transform your space. From salon-style to minimalist grids, find the perfect design for your UK home.

Discover 10 inspiring green living room ideas to transform your space. From biophilic design to sustainable decor, find your perfect eco-chic look.

Discover the top 9 colours for living room makeovers. Explore palettes from calming neutrals to bold jewel tones and get expert styling tips for your home.

Discover 9 fresh contemporary bedroom ideas to transform your space. Explore styles from minimalist to maximalist with actionable tips for a stunning refresh.

Discover 9 inspiring home bar decor ideas to elevate your space. From industrial chic to vintage glamour, find the perfect style for your entertaining hub.

Discover clever kitchen storage ideas to transform your space. From pull-out pantries to magnetic solutions, get organised with our expert tips.

Transform your home on a budget with our guide to affordable interior design. Discover 8 clever ideas for a stylish, high-end look without the high cost.

Discover the top flooring ideas for kitchen renovations in 2025. Explore pros, cons, and styling tips for materials like vinyl, tile, and hardwood.