Design ideas on any budget Renovating or giving your property a facelift can be a lot of fun—and highly profitable when done right. The key is to carefully consider the impact and budget of each update. If your return on investment is likely to be small, keep it simple by modernising finishes and fixtures. For larger renovations—like changing layouts or adding a bathroom, bedroom, or living area—set a clear budget and avoid falling into the sunk cost trap. Here are some ideas to get you...

I started my first renovation at 21, at this time my painting experience was limited to high school art class. When collecting the keys to my first home, I was thrilled by the freedom to design a space that reflected my  style—rather than a landlord’s preference for cheap, hard-wearing finishes. Turning an old cottage into my home was exhilarating, but it didn’t take me long to realise that my enthusiasm far outweighed my skills. My approach to painting was basic—a simple room-by-room...

How to improve your interior environment to positively impact relationships with family and friends. Interior design can have a...