Archived
 With covid 19 still far from over, and with strain on many household budgets, it's a great opportunity for us all to appreciate that less is more when it comes to gifts. So get out the brown paper and the biodegradable glitter, don't buy more food than Bruce Bogtrotter could eat, and remember to compost ALL your peelings |
 Post the COP26 summit in Glasgow, research suggests the public wants urgent action from government to keep global warming under 1.5 degrees |
 ..and not just for Christmas of course because poinsettias come in many other hues from cream to green to pink. But we tend to buy them as a yuletide tradition and rightly so because they are inject much needed colour at this time of year |
 Don't spend a fortune on gift-wrap. Gift-wrapping expert Arona Khan says we can all learn to wrap beautifully using paper off-cuts and bits-n-bobs we have lying around |
 Artist Bonnie Saland's live/work studio in northern California is full of colour and pattern. She's the designer behind textile brand Philomela and the family's laid-back ocean retreat is the ideal backdrop for her work. |
 Once you get your creative thinking cap on you'll be amazed at what you can upcycle |
 If you're on the hunt for interesting artworks or want to start a collection, don't miss AntikBar's November online auction, it's last for 2021. You could just grab yourself a one-of-a-kind bargain |
 Succulents were the height of bohemian chic in the '70s and they're still enjoying a resurgence thanks to a focus on easy-care plants and the need to do something about our indoor air quality. Grower Fiona Weymss of Kent-based Blueleaf Plants gives us the lowdown on these adorable little creatures |
 Country house style allows for eccentricity, simplicity, florals, comfort and cosiness. And it's an eco friendly look because you'll find pieces you need at antiques fairs, auctions and second-hand shops. And there's plenty of scope for upcycling |
