Essential Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom – January 2019

New year is often a time for fresh starts. For some, that might mean making the decision to move house in order to get the perfect property. But what if you already love where you live, and just need a little more kitchen space? That’s where extensions come in. From conservatories and orangeries to side returns and wraparounds, there’s sure to be an option that suits your favoured floorplan in our feature Room to Grow on page 69. Our real-life case studies this issue are the perfect examples of how a bit of clever planning can overcome any spacial hurdles. In A Tall Order on page 20, Julia and Mark Reeves combined mezzanine walkways with the most striking open-plan entertaining area, with a stunning Tom Howley kitchen at the forefront. Meanwhile, Robert and Claire had a few quirky characteristics to contend with, including a warren of servant quarters which all had to be opened up to allow for this characterful Chiselwood kitchen – flick to page 32 to read Modern Manor. Proving you don’t have to extend by much to make a massive difference, in Bold Move on page 48 you can find out how Lily and Col Pickard added a side return extension to their home. It may ‘only’ have added two metres to the space, but the finished result looks larger than life. If you’re looking to overhaul your lifestyle as well as your décor this new year, you’ll love our feature on the ultimate health-boosting appliances. From steam cookers which preserve nutrients to bacteria-killing washing machines to anti-allergy vacuum cleaners, you can discover a healthier you in Lean Cuisine on page 80. Following a busy festive season we all need time to relax and unwind and, for the ultimate in pampering luxury, why not invest in a traditional roll-top or modern freestanding bath (see Bathing Beauties on page 94)