KITCHEN TIPS

Choosing kitchen worksurfaces
Go for something with a real wow factor, such as thick concrete work surfaces, or a glass splashback lit from behind with fibre optics. If choosing granite, lay it with the reverse side up, as this has a dull finish which is far more attractive.
Kelly Hoppen

Buying kitchen appliances
If you enjoy cooking, buy the best range cooker that you can afford. Not only are they fantastic to cook on but they look stylish too.
Tricia Guild

Positioning kitchen appliances
Anything mechanical and ugly should definitely be behind closed doors, although it is encouraging to see a good espresso machine on the counter.
Nina Campbell

Planning your kitchen
It is important to seek the advice of kitchen designers and architects to make the most of the space and to prevent expensive mistakes. My pet hate in kitchens is gaps at the top of cupboards as these are serious dust traps. Floor to ceiling cupboards are much more visually appealing.
Nina Campbell

Organising your kitchen
Good organisation is the key to a well-thought-out kitchen. A place for everything is important if your kitchen is to function properly.
Tricia Guild

Kitchen style
Add accessories to make your kitchen welcoming. I began collecting old tea towels from charity shops a while ago and I'm thinking of framing some to hang in my new kitchen. Another idea is to transform kitchen chairs with vivid gloss paint and a retro-floral print made up into seat cushions.
Cath Kidston

BATHROOM TIPS

Planning your bathroom
There has been a trend recently for bathrooms to look as though they are in a hotel: now is the time to inject some of your own personality back into this room.
Nina Campbell

Bathroom planning
This room has different functions: sometimes you'll want a quick, refreshing shower, while after a long day you'll want to relax in the bath. Think carefully about what your needs are while you are renovating, as changing the layout afterwards can be costly.
Kelly Hoppen

Storage in the bathroom
Do think about where you are going to put your bath oils. A generous shelf along the side of the bath is a good idea or, if you have a free-standing bath, put a small table at the end of it.
Nina Campbell

How to light a bathroom
To soften a room use a mix of directional light and easily dimmed spotlights. If space is available, you could also add upholstered furniture. A small sofa, covered in towelling, is ideal or alternatively choose a small chair upholstered in soft linen.
Kelly Hoppen

Fabrics for the bathroom
Towelling is one of my favourite fabrics and, although I like a plain bathroom, I can't resist using it. It makes perfect loose-cover material for a bathroom chair. I also love towelling curtains which, can easily be made out of a pair of bath towels
Cath Kidston