How a village forge became the charming family home of architect Hugh Petter
‘I am always pleased when somebody stands in front of one of my buildings and asks what I’ve done.’ Hugh Petter tells Clive Aslet how he altered his own home.
Guides and advice
Whether you’re buying your first home or you’re already on the property ladder, use our property guides and advice to help you with your next purchase. We reveal the latest trends in the market, and also offer buying and selling tips, as well as general housekeeping tips to keep your property in peak condition.
Looking for a new home? Browse beautiful properties for sale across the UK here.
-
-
A Cotswolds cottage that shows just what's possible when architect, builder, craftsmen and owners come together in perfect harmony
The subtle remodelling and extension of an older cottage in the Cotswolds style by architect Robert Franklin is an exemplary essay in the Arts-and-Crafts spirit. Jeremy Musson reports, with photographs by Paul Highnam.
-
The 20-bedroom castle that went on the market for £500,000 — and what happened to the men who bought it
Last year, Ribbesford House — a vast castle in Worcestershire with 20 bedrooms, 20,000 sq ft of space and eight acres of land — caused a stir when it came to the market with a price tag of £500,000. Here's what happened next.
-
How architect Sandra Coppin sympathetically updated a Modern house in Wiltshire
‘Every element serves a purpose,’ says Sandra Coppin of the Modern property she updated for her own home, repurposing material along the way so that nothing went to waste.
-
The barn which architect Thomas Croft converted into a Postmodernist-influenced family home
‘I learnt that the best you can do is not too much,' Tom Croft tells Clive Aslet as he discusses how he adapted his own home for his family's use.
-
Life on Shetland: The peace and security of an island existence
Eleanor Doughty explores life on Scotland’s myriad beautiful islands.
-
Curious Questions: Does a blue plaque make your house more valuable?
London’s multiplying Blue Plaques certainly add interest, but do they affect property values? Eleanor Doughty investigates.
-
The age of the 'townsizers': The downsizers who are heading back into town instead of retiring to a country cottage
-
Country Life's top tips on how to be a good client for your builders, architects and designers
Having a great working relationship with the people you trust to transform your home is essential – we spoke to some of Britain's best architects, builders and designers to get their tips on how clients can get the most out of the process.
-
The top 10 market towns in England, from Kent to Cumbria
Country Life presents the top 10 market towns in England, from Kent to Cumbria, where you'll find fine properties, great schools and beautiful surroundings.
-
Why those 'win a house for £10' raffles should come with a health warning
Too good to be true? Eleanor Doughty investigates the trend for sale by raffle and explains why you should always read the small print.
-
Stamp duty: What it is, why we have it and why you might be due a refund
What do wig powder and newspapers have in common? They’ve all been subject to Stamp Duty. Roderick Easdale recounts the history of our least favourite tax.
-
How to turn your home into a film location
Welcoming a film crew into your home can bring fame and a little fortune, says Flora Watkins.
-
The best things to add to to your house to increase its value, from party barns to dressing rooms
-
How to choose a conservatory, orangery or timber-framed extension to suit your house
Let there be light – conservatories, orangeries and garden rooms are sympathetic and practical ways to add extra space to a house, says Amelia Thorpe.
-
Britain’s top property hotspots for 2018, and what you could get if you moved there
The market as a whole is expected to stagnate or even fall in the next 12 months, but it won't happen everywhere. Penny Churchill canvassed expert opinion from estate agents across the country to find nine places where things are still on the up.
-
The mysteries of 'topping off': Why workers erect trees and crack open a beer when they finish a building
-
The future’s bright: New colour palettes bring life to period properties
Period houses are being treated to a jauntier palette of colours, says Giles Kime, as he explores bold beautiful hues for your home.
-
How to master the art of perfect picture hanging
Hanging art, pictures and photographs correctly can be a daunting task. Art and framing consultant Marcus Wells shares his expertise.
-
Living in a conservation area: Ten things you need to know
Conservation areas have been protecting Britain's most beautiful areas for 50 years – here's what you need to know if you live in one, or are thinking about moving to one.
