The way you design your home says just as much about you as the clothes you wear. This great new book is packed with practical advice on how to achieve the look you want, for a budget you can afford.

Before you begin any kind of home-decorating project you need to make sure your canvas is in good order. We include a handy checklist of common problems to look out for and how to fix them – including cracks in walls, creaking stairs, damp patches, draughts, leaking roofs or blocked chimneys.

Doing it yourself is fun and economical, so we include step-by-step instructions on how to achieve a variety of home improvements. Of course it is not always possible (or safe) to do everything yourself – sometimes the decision needs to be made: DIY or GSI (get someone in!)? Getting the builders in can be stressful, but we include plenty of advice on finding the best workmen for the job, and how best to brief them and keep to budget.

Planning makes perfect – so we have plenty of useful information on making a moodboard, designing a room layout, choosing and using colour and pattern, deciding on wall finishes and treatments and making the most of your space.

Your home should be perfectly suited to your lifestyle, so whether you are looking for a cool, calm oasis, a stylish minimalist haven for entertaining or a useful family space, this book is packed full of ideas and inspiration so that you can really make your house a home to be proud of.