Features

bluebellgray has gone from the kitchen table to big time homewares brand in a short space of time. Abby Trow caught up with Fi Douglas, artist, designer, company founder and lover of flowers to find out how she’s coping with success and why her designs have struck such a chord 

solar panels harness the power of the sun

The need for us to switch to renewable sources of energy is urgent because our use of fossil fuels is causing global warming and climate change. We're familiar with the word 'renewables', but that said lots of us still aren't entirely sure what's meant by the term

insulate your roof space

With more of us feeling the effects of climate change - rising temperatures and more extreme weather events - so we know we have to do what we can in our own lives to protect the environment. Crucially we need to ensure our homes are insulated and our appliances are the most energy-efficient models.

Garden sheds are best made from wood

Thinking about installing a shed in the garden? Despite a plethora or plastic and metal sheds coming onto the market, timber remains the material most of us prefer, because it's eco-friendly, weathers well and gains in character over time

Black panel internal doors from JB Kind

Doors are easily overlooked and we tend meekly to accept what we inherit when we move into a property. But stylish interior doors can bring impact, cohesiveness and even a quiet grandeur to your home

Rush Matters makes rugs from rushes

Ok, what's hemp? what's vicuña? ...not sure?..well you need Kay Hill's guide to fibres and fabrics to help you make the most environmentally-friendly choices when buying floor coverings and textiles

Eco weddings deserve eco gifts

Weddings are back on the menu..yay! You've got weddings or civil partnerships coming up... The happy couples have eschewed a list at John Lewis, Harrods or Selfridges, saying airily that 'anything recyclable, bio-degradable or generally CO2-lite will be simply divine!' Rejoice, there's much that fits the bill.

Milam Mattress is made from coir and natural latex

A good mattress and bed frame is a major investment, so choose one made from quality natural materials that are sustainable, long-lasting, won't off-gas and can be recycled. And watch out for noxious fire retardant chemicals in mattresses

Madeleine Boulesteix

Madeleine Boulesteix can take a box of unwanted glasses, teacups and jelly moulds and turn them into chandelier that will captivate and delight you for years to come. She talks to Abby Trow about her work

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