Olivia Heath

4 days ago | housebeautiful.com | Olivia Heath

We love when Kevin McCloud revisits what was an unfinished Grand Designs house build: you're always often guaranteed a satisfying before and after, even if the journey to get there is a pretty turbulent one. In the latest Grand Designs episode, Kevin revisited a former build in Hackney Downs, north-east London, in which architect Graeme and his graphic designer partner Melanie attempted to build a home on the small plot of a knackered old double garage.

1 week ago | housebeautiful.com | Olivia Heath

1Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris'Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris is one of the very best plants for growing on a north-facing, shady wall,' says author and gardener Sarah Raven. 'It blooms from July to August and boasts beautiful creamy white flowers, and equally lovely seedheads.'Growing up to six metres in height, it's a great flower for natural privacy. 'Apply a fertiliser in the spring if your soil is light and sandy, however, this isn't necessary on richer soils,' Sarah advises.

1 week ago | housebeautiful.com | Olivia Heath

Despite sometimes being overlooked by homeowners, house hunters are placing greater value on a well-kept garden. Unruly outdoor spaces can reduce the interest in a property and negatively impact its value. But there's a simple fix — and it starts with your garden fence and a fresh coat of paint. A fence makes a garden much more private and secluded, as well as keeping your property secure, so it's a necessity to potential homebuyers; broken or damaged ones will actively devalue your property.

1 week ago | housebeautiful.com | Olivia Heath

Aldi's soon-to-launch spring/summer garden range is the perfect opportunity to upgrade your outdoor space on a budget. As part of the supermarket chain's weekly Specialbuys promotion, you'll find garden furniture and accessories to kit out your entire space – including the return of a customer favourite. Back for another year is Aldi's sell-out rattan-effect corner sofa in grey.

1 week ago | housebeautiful.com | Olivia Heath

Who doesn't love spring blossom? Bursting into life at this time of year, blossom trees such as crab apple and flowering cherries, adorned with clouds of pink and white petals, are among the most inspiring sights of the changing season. Look for those small enough to grow in modest-sized gardens, or even in pots. What blooms first? 1. Sloes, Prunus spinosa (blackthorn) are usually the first to bloom — you'll see the white froth along countryside hedgerows.