Measuring for the correct size curtain is not about simply measuring the size of the frame of the windows but has a few more steps than that. Firstly, you will want to ensure that whatever type of curtain rod or track you are planning on using is already installed, to get accurate measurements. Once your rod or track is in place, 15cm above the window top and 15-20cm either side of the edges, you will want to measure for the width of the curtains. You do this by measuring the total width of the track or pole, excluding the decorative ends or finials. Half of that measurement will be the individual curtains width.

Next you will want to measure for the correct length or drop of the curtains. To do this you will start from where the pole or track starts down to where you want the curtain to drop to. If you want them at the base of the window frame, this is normally done by going to the window frame base and then take off 1cm. Or if you want it below the window sill, add 15cm. If you want floor length, measure to the floor then take away 1cm.
This is an excellent way to ensure that you order the correct size of curtains, the first time.

Bathrooms are a tricky room for planning lighting as the vanity, tub and shower all require different types of lighting but still needs a cohesion in the style and overall design. To help you plan and choose what will work best in your space, here are three top tips:

Aim for ‘layers of light’
It is most beneficial to have three layers of light in a bathroom. A combination of ambient light, task lighting (for daily grooming) and accent lighting will assure that the light is distributed evenly.

Don’t worry about ‘exact’ matches
The style of all the different fixtures does not have to be exact, however, you should ensure the fixtures have the same finish, to maintain unity. Brass or Chrome are the most versatile finishes as they can easily complement other bath accessories.

Consider sizing
It is important to keep in mind the size of the space. Make sure that the fixtures are not too large or too small. If the bathroom is a good size you can accentuate its size with something larger, like a chandelier for example.

No all set-in stains are removeable, but if you do not give it a try, you will never know. The deeper into the carpet the stain is, the harder it will be to remove and it could take several attempts. One of the best stain removers is baking soda.

1. First, vacuum the area to remove any loose dust, dirt or hair.

2. Put 1 cup of baking soda into a large bowl and add 2 tbsp of water and stir into a paste. The paste should be thick like toothpaste. If necessary, you can add 1tbsp of water at a time for a pastier consistency.

3. Scoop paste out with a spoon, put onto the carpet and gently work into the carpet with your fingers so as not to damage carpet fibres. Leave paste to sit.

4. Next, place five to eight paper towels over the stain and weight them down with something heavy to help the stain lift from the carpet.

5. Lastly, vacuum the baking soda crumbs from the carpet.

If it appears to have no effect, this method may not work for this particular stain. If the stain is lighter, it may take a couple more tries to fully remove the stain.

Choosing new carpet for the first time can be quite a challenge. There are several things that go into such a transformational decision. You want your carpet to be cosy but also fit for purpose for your home. Here are some things to consider:

First, think about your lifestyle.

1. If you have a young family and/or a family with pets you will most likely want a hard-wearing carpet with a forgiving colour. Some options could include a textured loop pile or a quality hard-twist cut. Loop piles have many variations: formal, linear or textured.

2. If you are more concerned with luxury, a plush pile in a flat colour may be more to your liking. Plush piles are very soft, dense carpet.

3. If you entertain a lot, a combination cut and loop pile in a mid-to-dark tone or a stippled cut pile may suit. The combination has contrasting textures and are less likely to show footprints.

Darker colours are cosier, whereas lighter colours make a room feel larger. You can also choose a combination of two colours for a more neutral feel. Colour also fades over time, so choose a couple shades darker and also depends on fibre type.

A kitchen can be as unique as you want it to be, and if you benefits form ample spaces in your home then you may want to opt for a kitchen diner. This is basically a spacious kitchen that combines a kitchen with a dining room, and it’s usually open plan, with bench seats, while many people use American fixtures to give it that real diner look.

If you are going to decide on this kitchen style then you have to think carefully about the design theme. You should have a clear idea on the furniture that could work well and the furniture that will not work well. Drawing up your design can always help and once you know how much space you have to utilise, you can then decide between centre islands, bench seats, range ovens, stoves, work surfaces and units.

A kitchen diner can mean you get plenty of space to prepare and cook meals, while there’s plenty of room for a family to enjoy a meal, without having to move into a completely different room. It’s also good to really take the time to think about the flooring. It usually has be either solid wood or tiling, because stains and spills can be wiped up easy, while checkered tiles can really give off that diner feel.