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A great (and last minute) gift for a handy home lover
I saw this post on Instagram and immediately asked if I could share it with you so for the last time this year it's over to our expert: Jules Haines.
5 hrs ago
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Kate Watson-Smyth
27
3
1
THE 10 BEST: Portable Lamps
When days barely seem to get light, a portable lamp is your friend. Move it around as the hours darken, use it where no sockets exist – or instead of a…
Dec 10
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Kate Watson-Smyth
65
2
3
OPINION: Is Christmas just for influencers?
As pressure mounts to present an image of perfection for a single day of the year – several trees, a stunning tablescape, matching pyjamas, etc – I…
Dec 8
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Kate Watson-Smyth
124
31
10
The Christmas Companion Substack Book Tour: Morning Coffee with Skye McAlpine
Watch now | How to avoid the pressure of trying to create the perfect Christmas.
Dec 5
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Kate Watson-Smyth
and
Skye McAlpine
27
3
50:08
DESIGN: When does a trend become a cliché?
Social media definitely plays a part in turning a trend into a cliche. Here are some of the worst* design crimes and, more importantly, what you can do…
Dec 3
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Kate Watson-Smyth
104
7
4
HOW TO: buy gifts
At this time of year everyone writes about WHAT to buy. Better, I think, to think about HOW to buy. That way you will never be stuck for inspiration…
Dec 1
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Kate Watson-Smyth
233
19
15
November 2025
HOUSE NOTES #16
A round up of the month including news of an upcoming event, a bit of shopping, design tips and room of the month.
Nov 28
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Kate Watson-Smyth
63
12
2
INTERVIEW: Orla Zafalon, the modern glassmaker of Venice.
Like her fictional counterpart Orsola Rosso, Orla has learned new skills to promote her family's glass-making company – but her skills lie in…
Nov 24
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Kate Watson-Smyth
64
14
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THE DESIGN SHOPPER: Alice Gaskell
Each Friday, a special guest brings their expertise to Mad About The House. This week interior designer Alice shares her decorating secrets and best…
Nov 21
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Alice Gaskell
61
6
6
LIVE: On The House with Lisa Dawson
Join me and Lisa Dawson chatting about how to plan the perfect bathroom
Nov 20
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Kate Watson-Smyth
and
Lisa Dawson
36
1
1
1:00:16
TREND: Colour Capping
It's easier than drenching – and more effective – so read on to find out if this almost-ombre paint effect is for you.
Nov 19
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Kate Watson-Smyth
71
16
5
DESIGN POSTCARD: Karl Lagerfeld's Paris
The designer's private office in St Germain has been restored, renovated and lightly reimagined to create an apartment to rent with views of the Eiffel…
Nov 17
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Kate Watson-Smyth
49
5
3
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