Looking for the best coffee machines? We’ve reviewed each and every one of the top 15 in our guide, from bean-to-cup to simple filter machines, and here are our top picks. Whether you want a pod machine for one-touch brews each and every day, or a completely customizable morning cappuccino with an automatic machine, there’s something for everyone in our guide.

Below you’ll find beautiful machines from Smeg, Nespresso, Melitta, Breville, Sage, De’Longhi, and illy. If you’re willing to invest, we recommend buying the best bean-to-cup coffee machines. They’ll grind your coffee beans and brew them in one go, and many come with automatic milk steaming or a steam wand for honing those barista skills. They save you the effort of buying a coffee grinder for using fresh beans each and every day, and have less waste than the best pod coffee machines.

If you want an affordable coffee machine, you can choose a pod or ground coffee machine. These save you the effort of buying a machine with a mechanism, which cuts down on cost up-front. However, if you want a coffee machine for a super fresh brew, a bean-to-cup offers some distinct advantages.

How we selected the best coffee machines

Image credit: David Giles

The coffee machines featured in this guide have all been tested as you would use them at home. We’ve considered the type of coffee machine – pod coffee machine, bean-to-cup coffee machine, filter coffee machines and espresso coffee machines – to cater for the varying household demands. With this comes the job of deciphering usability, maintenance, the amount of space the machine takes up, upfront costs and running costs. It’s (not) been a hard job! We like coffee as much as you probably do, maybe even a shot more.

Keep scrolling to see which of the best coffee machines in the UK made our shortlist. The handy pricing widget underneath the products will ALWAYS display the best price, too, so you don’t need to go elsewhere to track down a good deal either.

Best coffee machine 2022

1. Breville Bijou Espresso Machine

The best coffee machine for homemade espresso

Best for: espresso or long coffee
Type of coffee: ground
Pressure: 15 bar
No. of cups: up to 2
What we like:

• Continuous extraction
• High quality steam wand
• Stylish brushed finish

What we don’t like:

• Low filter can get in the way

Make any type of coffee with the Breville Bijou Espresso Machine. It has a high-quality steam wand which is perfect for texturising milk, and there are two filters to choose from, which is great for  having single or double shots of espresso. You need to wait for your coffee machine to heat up before twisting the dial to the left, which will continuously extract hot coffee until you switch it back. This will be good for some, and not so good for others. Some will prefer an exact espresso measurement, whereas others will just want a long coffee to fill up their favourite mug.

Using grounds, you can easily tamp and twist to secure your filter with the included scoop and tamper. There is no jug included, but it will be easy to buy one for cheap online. Just press the steam milk button and wait for it to stop flashing before twisting the dial to the right and clearing out the wand. Then, it’s easy to create that high-pressure whirlpool to achieve that perfectly hot milk with a creamy latte finish.

If we have a complaint, it’s that the filter hangs quite low and can get in the way of some taller mugs. We did have to fill up a smaller mug and then pour into a longer latte mug to make some drinks. For the money, this is a brilliant coffee machine.

Ideal Home rating 4 out of 5 stars

Read our full Breville Bijou Espresso Machine review

2. De’Longhi Dinamica Plus ECAM370

Best high-end bean to cup coffee machine

Best for: making a coffee from scratch
Type of coffee: beans
Pressure: 19 bar
No. of cups: 2
What we like:

• Super quick to heat up
• Easy to use
• Impressive milk frothing

What we don’t like:

• Needs regular self-cleaning

As you can probably tell, we are BIG fans of coffee so we’re easily impressed when we find a machine which can grind, brew and make a delicious drink in one go. This is a pretty expensive coffee machine – we give you that – but if you are a regular punter down at the local coffee house then you’ll soon earn your money back with one of these. You’ll also have coffee on tap which is a welcomed relief with all that working from home and homeschooling the majority of us have been doing for the past year or so.

The burr grinder will work its magic on coffee beans of your choice which can be adjusted, if needed. It’ll heat up in about three seconds so you won’t be waiting long for your next caffeine-fix. And no need to worry about hand-steaming your coffee, because the automatic milk steaming is perfectly adjusted for eacn and every drink.

You can also choose between different drink sizes and strengths, or save a custom preset of your favourite blend to make sure you have your perfect brew each and every morning.

Ideal Home rating 5 out of 5 stars

Read our full De’Longhi Dinamica Plus ECAM370 review

3. Lavazza A Modo Mio Idola

Best pod coffee machine

Best for: space saving
Type of coffee: pod
Pressure: 15 bar
No. of cups: 1
What we like:

• Easy to use
• Stylish design
• Four brew sizes

What we don’t like:

• On the expensive side

Small kitchen? Short on space? This pod coffee machine from Lavazza will fit in nicely. Despite its small size, it will make a statement not only on how it looks but also because it’ll make a punchy coffee. The entire range of Lavazza A Modo Mio pods are compatible with the Lavazza A Modo Mio Idola which means that you can opt for a selection of espressos whenever you want them. The good thing here is that the pods are made with an innovative, compostable biopolymer, which means that they’ll naturally biodegrade.

Keeping the machine clean is pretty straightforward. You’ll just need to run a cycle WITHOUT a pod inserted to flush out the system. It would also be worth just wiping it down with a damp cloth to remove any finger marks or coffee spills.

Ideal Home rating 4.5 out of 5 stars

Read our full Lavazza A Modo Mio Idola review

4. Sage Bambino

The best coffee machine for compact design

Image credit: Sage

Best for: espresso and milky coffee
Type of coffee: ground
Pressure: 9 bar
No. of cups: up to 2
What we like:

• High quality extraction
• Great filter selection
• Preheats very fast

What we don’t like:

• Noisy brewing

Home baristas will love the Sage Bambino, which is Sage’s latest and most budget-friendly coffee machine. It’s not cheap (of course, it’s Sage) but it is decent value-for-money, with pre-infusion which very effectively extracts creamy and smooth crema for a luscious layer on top of your espresso. The preheat is only three seconds, which is very impressive, and the milk steaming wand also preheats very fast. It gives out 130-degree steam which was very effective at creating steamed milk in a jiffy.

When extracting we did find that the Sage Bambino rattles slightly, so it’s not the quietest coffee machine on the market. Cleaning is easy though, with a drip tray that simply pulls out for a rinse, and an easily flushed steam wand.

Ideal Home rating 4.5 out of 5 stars

Read our full Sage Bambino review

5. Cuisinart Veloce

The best value fully functioning coffee machine

Best for: lovers of frothy coffee
Type of coffee: bean
Pressure: 15 bar
No. of cups: up to 2
What we like:

• Can make milky and long coffees automatically
• Simple digital instructions
• Cleaning is easy

What we don’t like:

• You need to clean the milk frother after each use

The Cuisinart Veloce packs in a lot of value for the price, which, admittedly, is one of the highest in our guide. The digital display shows a menu of numerous coffee options, from espresso shots to cappuccinos. You can adjust the size of your drink in millilitres, the proportion of milk to coffee and the level of froth you would like if you do opt for a milky coffee. The milk dispenser is also removable, so you can keep it in the fridge between uses.

We enjoyed being able to save custom drink preferences, which made coffee rounds seriously straightforward. The machine runs a self-cleaning cycle after every drink, which only lasts a few seconds. After making a milky drink you need to add the tube to a glass of water, where it will clean itself out after each use. This is a bit of a faff if you drink a lot of latte, but we just kept a glass of water handy in preparation.

Cleaning is made easy by the on-screen instructions which guide you through the whole process. The digital display may be less charming than some of the other best bean-to-cup coffee machines on the market, but it really does make life a whole lot easier.

Ideal Home rating 4.5 out of 5 stars

Read our full Cuisinart Veloce coffee machine review

6. Swan Retro One Touch Espresso Machine

Best coffee machine for quirky style

Best for: value and retro style
Type of coffee: grounds
Pressure: 13 bar
No. of cups: 2
What we like:

• So many colours
• Milk dispenser
• Reasonable price

What we don’t like:

• Removable tray feels flimsy

The Swan Retro One Touch Espresso Machine is a retro-style coffee machine with all the modern touches you need to make your coffee shop favourites. The milk frother is very easy to use, and there are two sizes of beverage in three drink types.

You need to add and tamp your own grounds to use the Swan Retro One Touch Espresso Machine, and we found that it can get a little messy to work this way. The pressure gauge will help you to tell if your machine is ready to go, and it also makes sure you’re getting the most of out of your beans.

The tamp drips slightly once your coffee is done pouring. We suggest putting a cup underneath it to prevent it from splashing into the plastic base.

Ideal Home rating 4 out of 5 stars

Read our full Swan Retro One Touch Espresso Machine review

7. BREVILLE VCF125 Mini Barista Coffee Machine

The best coffee machine for every coffee imaginable

Best for: all coffees
Type of coffee: ground
Pressure: 15 bar
No. of cups: up to 2
What we like:

• Makes a lovely coffee
• Easy to set-up and maintain
• Compact so doesn’t take up too much space

What we don’t like:

• No adjustable mug height
• Stainless steel easier marks

This coffee machine will help you to hone in on those barista skills which you thought you never had. It is a little faff to set up each time you want a coffee BUT it the end result is so worth it. You’ll need to add fresh water to the 2 litre reservoir tank, heat your mug with the steam wand (if you desire), froth your milk in the jug, fill up the one or two shot espresso discs and hit the button. It’ll make an americano, latte, flat white, or cappuccino but you may have to perfect those swirls on the top with the milk jug and frother.

A point worth mentioning is that try not to fill up the shots with coffee. There will be a resistance when you go to secure the handle, and will be tempted to force it. Don’t do this. Just tip some of the coffee grounds back into the bag.

Cleaning and maintenance is easy but will need regular attention to keep it look in tip-top condition. The stainless steel shell will need a buff-up every other day, and the drop tray emptied as and when too.

Ideal Home rating 4.5 out of 5 stars

8. Gastroback Design Espresso Barista Pro

The best coffee machine for barista-style coffee

Best for: being a home barista
Type of coffee: bean-to-cup
Pressure: 15 bar
No. of cups: up to 2
What we like:

• Reasonably priced for a bean-to-cup
• Simple and sleek controls
• Makes countless coffee types

What we don’t like:

• No indicator when it runs out of water

Gastroback is a relative newcomer in the world of coffee machines, but it really impressed us in testing. The grind is fully adjustable depending on the type of coffee you want to make, and you can make soft steamed milk for a latte or a sturdy foam for some cappuccino using the attached milk wand.

While it’s 15 bar (when many of the similar models on the market are 19) the Gastroback Design Espresso Barista Pro does make very delicious coffee. It does either single or double shots, so it is not best suited to making long coffees, but if you enjoy getting creative with your drinks, it makes a wonderful machine to hone those barista skills.

The sleek stainless steel design has a black touch display panel, and it also has buttons to run some hot water to top up espressos. It is very easy to clean, but we did think that for the price it could use an alert to show you when the water level is low.

Ideal Home rating 4.5 out of 5 stars

9. Illy Iperespresso Y3.3

Best compact pod machine

Best for: quality coffee
Type of coffee: pod
Pressure: n/a
No. of cups: 1
What we like:

• Super compact design
• High-quality coffee
• Great range of colours

What we don’t like:

• Basic functions

The illy Iperespresso Y3.3 comes courtesy of some serious espresso masters. We found that the pods with this machine yielded a rich brew, whether we opted for long americanos or short espressos. There is a fold-out shelf to brew espressos, and simply place your mug under the dispenser for anything taller. Of course, you do lose the option of making lattes or flat whites when you’re working with such a compact machine, but what it does it does very well.

We’re partial to the blue, but there’s also a striking red or subtle white option, so matching the Iperespresso to your kitchen will not be a problem. Cleaning is easy too, thanks to automatic descaling, but we did note that the drip tray cannot be removed, which means it’s a little fiddly to clean on the regular.

Compact kitchens will benefit from the Y3.3’s narrow dimensions. It’s only 10cm wide, which is seriously teeny, but the cord is one metre in length meaning it can be placed just about anywhere on your countertops.

Ideal Home rating 4 out of 5 stars

10. Smeg DCF02

Best filter coffee machine

Best for: making a really good filter coffee
Type of coffee: ground
Pressure: n/a
No. of cups: up to 10
What we like:

• Excellent filter
• Feels really sturdy
• Available in six (lovely) colours
What we don’t like:

• Bulky ‘small’ design
• A little tricky to fill up the water tank

We fell in love with this filter coffee machine from Smeg the moment we saw it. It’s a very neat, simple design which is available in a suite of colours so it can be bought to match your kitchen decor. On the subject of design, however, it is a little bulky and can take up a fair amount of space in a small kitchen. It’s also a little tricky to fill up the water tank but there are ways round that, such as pulling the coffee machine away from the wall and from underneath the wall units. Not ideal but it solves for the problem – for us it did, anyway.

It uses filter coffee to make a quick and easy fresh brew for up to ten. If there’s less than ten of you then you can simply use less water, or just more coffee. A keep warm plate will unsurprisingly keep the coffee warm for you, too, but not for much longer than a couple of hours. Oh and another thing to note is to NOT turn off the machine at the plug after each use because all settings will be cleared. It’ll mean that you’ll need to run through the set-up process again, and no one has time for that.

Ideal Home rating 4.5 out of 5 stars

11. Lavazza Voicy

The best smart coffee machine

Image credit: Lavazza

Best for: smart design
Type of coffee: pod
Pressure: 19 bar
No. of cups: 1
What we like:

• The in-built Alexa speaker
• Compatible app to customise your brew
• Easy to clean

What we don’t like:

• You’re limited by only two buttons

It’s not cheap, but the Lavazza Voicy is the best smart coffee machine we’ve reviewed. It has an Alexa smart speaker front and centre, which will make you a fresh brew if you simply command it to make you a coffee. You can also ask for a hot coffee, which will boost the temperature, and a long coffee, which will deliver a lungo instead of a cappuccino.

The Lavazza app can be used to customise your coffee, with several profiles to adjust the number of ounces that go into your favourite beverage. That means you won’t be limited by the two buttons on top of the coffee machine, and if you don’t drink much espresso, you can change the preset for both buttons to something more your liking.

If you pair your Lavazza Voicy with your Amazon account you can use it in the place of a regular smart speaker. This is ideal for playing your favourite podcast while you do the washing up, or checking the time when you are in a rush.

Ideal Home rating 5 out of 5 stars

Read our full Lavazza Voicy review

12. Sage Barista Express

Best bean to cup coffee machine

Best for: home baristas
Type of coffee: beans
Pressure: 15 bar
No. of cups: 10
What we like:

• A fully customisable brew
• Looks the part
• Pressure gauge allows you to optimise for different bean types

What we don’t like:

• It could be overwhelming for some

We love that the Sage by Heston Blumenthal Barista Express coffee machine can grind your beans, brew them, and even steam the milk for lattes and cappuccinos. Everything from the grind coarseness to the volume can be adjusted manually for that shot of espresso, just how you like it, and the pressure gauge shows you the optimum levels to aim for when brewing.

The Sage by Heston Blumenthal Barista Express isn’t a cheap option, but compared to some of the other options on the market it’s a good middle ground between value and quality. Cleaning is easy enough and needs to be done every month or so using the included insert for the portafilter and tablets. A word of warning though, be sure to empty the tray before it gets too full or it will get messy!

Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

13. Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie

Best pod coffee machine for strong espresso

Best for: strong coffee
Type of coffee: pod
Pressure: 15 bar
No. of cups: 1
What we like:

• Quality design
• Aromatic coffee
• Reasonable price

What we don’t like:

• No size presets

If you value a good quality espresso, the Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie is a top choice. It comes in a range of dashing shades and sits pretty on any kitchen counter. The pods are recyclable, albeit through Lavazza’s slightly complicated scheme, and the machine is very easy to use. You simply pull up the lever, insert your pod, and push it back down to start the brewing process.

You press to start brewing, and then press again to stop the process. This has pros and cons, because while it’s nice to see a coffee machine that offers a fully adjustable length of coffee, you do need to stand by while it brews.

Ideal Home rating 4.5 out of 5 stars

Read our full Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie review

14. Melitta Barista TS Smart coffee machine

Best smart coffee machine

Best for: smart features
Type of coffee: beans
Pressure: 15 bar
No. of cups: 10
What we like:

• We LOVE the smart features
• Fully automatic
• Smartphone controls

What we don’t like:

• A little hefty for small kitchens

This coffee machine does it all. It’s a super smart choice in more ways than one; from the grinding of the beans to the frothing of the milk, which can all be controlled on your smartphone. Yep we know. Impressive stuff.

Making an espressos or cappuccino is spot on, as you’d hope – but there are actually 21 coffee recipes you can create. The onboard milk frother is super easy to use and effective, too, plus it self-cleans, which is ALWAYS a win for us. And – if you’re into grinding your own coffee beans – then you’ll be happy to know that the integrated grinder is quiet when operating; that said, there’s the option, as with most models of this type, to use pre-ground coffee, too.

Usability-wise, we’re overwhelmed (in a good way) by the smartness. You just need to download the app, which allows you to control the coffee machine from your smartphone. Your favourite coffee choices can be saved so you’ll always get the cup you want, and there are some useful tips on getting the best from your coffee machine, too. More on those coffee choices: this machine has the My Coffee Memory function which has the ability to save the coffee preferences of up to eight people, and four pre-programmed classic specialities: espresso, cafe creme, cappuccino and latte macchiato. It’ll even just give you hot water, too, should anyone dare to ask for tea instead.

Ideal Home rating 5 out of 5 stars

15. Morphy Richards Verve Pour Over Coffee Machine

Best filter coffee machine for value

Best for: value
Type of coffee: ground
Pressure: n/a
No. of cups: up to 12
What we like:

• Makes a good coffee on a budget
• Easy to set up

What we don’t like:

• Hot plate doesn’t stay on for long
• Clock is difficult to read in low light

A filter coffee machine offers excellent value for money; the coffee grounds can be bought from the supermarket and the machine itself can be picked up for circa £50. And this coffee machine from Morphy Richards is no exception.

We love how full-flavoured the coffee is. This is all down to the pour-over shower head and cupcake filters which evenly disperses water over the coffee grounds to release all those lovely rich flavours and aromas. It’s also super easy to use with a coffee strength selector and programmable timer. This means that you’ll also have total control over exactly how you want your coffee. Have guests coming over post-lockdown? You can pop a brew on for 12 with this coffee machine. Anything less and you’ve over calculated how much coffee you’ll need then you’re going to have to drink-up (or pour it away) if you want a warm coffee because the hotplate won’t keep it long for much longer than 20 minutes.

How we test the best coffee machines

It’s a tough job but someone has to do it, right? We like to get hands-on experience with as many products as we can before featuring in our buyer’s guide, and if we get to drink the rewards – even better! We understand that there’s A LOT of choice out there when finding the best coffee machine and, really, the only way to find out which one will be the most suitable for your lifestyle is to test one out for size. This is not always possible though, we get that, so luckily that’s where we can help…

What is the best coffee machine?

To recap, our favourite coffee machine for 2021 is the Breville Bijou Espresso Machine. It’s relatively inexpensive and gives you the opportunity to practice making all sorts of coffees. Our reviewer even made a few hot chocolates with the steam wand. The machine doesn’t take up too much space on the kitchen side, either, plus it’s easy to keep clean so long as you keep on top of it.

The post Best coffee machine 2022: reviews of our top 15 appeared first on Ideal Home.

When it comes to blue kitchen ideas, navy has been riding high in the style stakes for a while. Yet it’s not the only shade of blue that can create an impact in your kitchen. There’s a spectrum of alternative blues to choose, if navy is too dark for you to embrace.

From the palest sky-blue, duck-egg or pretty periwinkle, through to teal, aqua-marine and the punchier electric hues, there are plenty of shades to consider to dip your toe into this invigorating  kitchen colour scheme.

‘We all know that kitchens can sometimes be stressful places. That’s what makes blue such a good spectrum of colour to use for any room where food is prepared. It’s tranquil, calming and most importantly always stylish,’ says Susie Spence, Trend Expert and Head of Interiors at B&Q.

Blue kitchen ideas

There’s no denying that blue units look beautiful and make a bold statement, but it’s not always necessary to change everything. Of course, if it’s time for a new kitchen that’s exciting. Yet there are other ways to introduce shades of blue that don’t entail huge expense. ‘Painting your kitchen cabinets is an easy and cost-effective way of upgrading your kitchen without much effort,’ says Susie Spence, Trend Expert and Head of Interiors at B&Q.

It’s easy enough to find out how to paint kitchen cabinets or tile a splashback too, if you want to be canny with your cash or prefer to update than replace.

1. Make a splash with patterned tiles

Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Wreford

If you’ve already scrolled through white kitchen ideas and settled on neutral cabinetry, give it a lift with pretty patterned tiles and accessories. A combination blue splashback is a perfect partner to white worktops or lime-washed cabinetry. With traditional fittings, this colour combo can result in a feeling of heartwarming nostalgia.

‘Patterned tiles are back in a big way and it’s easy to see why. They provide an easy way to add interest and colour to a kitchen without being overpowering,’ says Colin Lincoln-Evans, Buyer, Tile Mountain. ‘Whether you create a simple splashback behind a sink or tile above your kitchen cabinetry remember that a little pattern can go a long way.’

‘Smaller kitchens can easily be overpowered by intricate patterns. So choose carefully and look for one that will create a focal point without dominating the space.’

2. Go bold with electric blue cabinetry

Image credit: Ca’ Pietra

If you want something unique, choose a company that can colour match your favourite shades, such as Better Kitchens. Or create them yourself by painting existing units. Once you’ve found the best paint for kitchen cabinets, you can let your imagination run riot with the colour. A bold shade, like electric blue, will instantly inject personality into your space, particularly when coordinate with vibrant tiles.

Just be sure it’s a colour you can live with, it’s not called electric blue for nothing. It gives your senses a jolt, so it’s best suited to kitchens that aren’t open plan.

3. Make a feature with a blue island

Colour doesn’t have to take over all of your kitchen cabinetry. Break up a big space or a long run of white units with an island in a striking shade of blue. Where an all-navy kitchen idea might feel too much, picking out just an island in the more dominant shade allows you to embrace colour without overwhelming the space.

Keep the scheme cohesive with worktops in the same material across all of the base cabinets and choose a finish that complements both colours, like this sleek marble example. Introducing bar stools with seats in the same metal finish as the door handles and fixtures will tie the scheme together.

4. Pair soft contrasting shades

Image credit: Olive & Barr; Blue shaker kitchen

Periwinkle is another blue tone that’s set to become popular. Announced recently by Pantone (with the moniker ‘Very Peri’) as its Colour for 2022, expect to see it popping up everywhere in interiors. Inspired by the pretty Periwinkle plant, this violet-blue hue is said by the colour experts to exude ‘a carefree confidence’. That makes it a great colour for a kitchen in our eyes but break up the space with a minty hue, as counterfoil for periwinkle’s sugary undertones.

‘Blue kitchens have been enjoying a surge in popularity for several years and for good reason,’ says Al Bruce, founder, Olive & Barr. ‘It feels bold and creative, giving your space an added depth, balance and dramatic edge.’

5. Create impact with teal and stone tones

Image credit: Future PLC

This teal kitchen is a show stopper, with its bold, floor-to-ceiling painted cabinetry.  To balance the strong blue-green shade, the colour is broken up with large areas of pale stone grey tones through the marble worktops, the tiled splashback and cooker hood. The different tones in the tiles and the work surface bring in a natural feel that adds subtle movement, which you wouldn’t see with a block of flat colour.

6. Complement exposed timber with marine blue

Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes

There’s a reason why colours seen in nature like marine blue work so well with natural materials, such as oak. It’s because our eyes are attuned to seeing them together, so it makes a winning combo in a country kitchen too. The mottled shades of blue-ish grey and honey in the flagstone floor unite the cool blue and warm oak tones. At the same time, a trio of shiny copper pendants add a touch of glamour.

7. Choose a calming tone for a busy kitchen

Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole

A gentle tone of blue-green that’s warm in winter and fresh in summer is ideal for a kitchen where you want to spend all your time. Pale blue is also a timeless shade that’s easy to live with and can help bring calm to the chaos of family mealtimes.

Team the cabinets with simple white worktops and smart brass door handles to enhance the colour.

8. Consider the amount of light

Image credit: Future PLC

Prefer the darker tones of blue, such as aquamarine?  Before you commit, think about how much natural light your kitchen has and consider whether it can take the colour.

‘From calming light shades of sky blue to bold navy, there’s something in this palette to suit everyone’s style, whether you’re a fan of modern or traditional kitchens,’ says xx Homebase. ‘Lighter blues can make the room feel brighter and bigger. But if you’re a fan of darker shades, make sure you’ve got plenty of lighting, both natural and artificial, to prevent the space feeling too cramped.’

9. Contrast sky blue with pale timber

Image credit: Future PLC

‘There is no right shade of blue for kitchen cabinets, it all depends on the mood you are trying to achieve,’ says Susie Spence, Trend Expert and Head of Interiors at B&Q. ‘Dulux experts have predicted that Bright Skies is going to be Colour of the Year for 2022. The pale blue hue gives off an airy and fresh tone that opens up and breathes new life into any space.’

10. Give grey a lift with vernisse vertical tiles

Vernisse Blue Gloss Ceramic Wall Tile, B&Q

Grey kitchen ideas have been popular for a while, yet as glorious as these smoky toned cook zones are, they can look a little drab without an accent shade. Give grey cabinets a lift by teaming them with blue tiles; ideally a shade with a grey-ish undertone. These vernisse blue tiles from B&Q work a treat. By laying them in a vertical pattern, (rather than the traditional horizontal style we’re used to), makes them feel instantly modern.

11. Opt for on-trend blues

Image credit: Dulux

One shade of blue that’s set to become popular is the recently announced Dulux Colour of the Year 2022: ‘Bright Skies’. Use this on-trend paint shade to set the tone for the kitchen wall idea.

‘What better inspiration can we take than the endless skies around us?,’ says Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director, Dulux UK. ‘It’s widely known that nature makes us feel better and taking steps to bring the outside in enhances our sense of wellbeing.’

What shade of blue is good for kitchen cabinets?

‘Navy is a classic shade for kitchen cabinets, it’s bold and sophisticated,’ says xx Homebase. ‘However, pastel blue is becoming more popular. It’s a great choice for someone who’s looking to add a splash of colour to brighten up their home.’

Susie Spence, Trend Expert and Head of Interiors at B&Q adds, ‘Cerulean will transform your kitchen into a coastal paradise, whereas cobalt will create a more modern, energising look. If you are looking for a sophisticated and contemporary feel, darker blues should be your go to.’

What colour walls go with a blue kitchen?

It depends on the shade of blue, so look at the undertones. They might be grey, green or yellow, so use that as a pointer. If in doubt, you can’t go wrong with white walls.

‘Two-tone decorating in the kitchen is a trend that’s continuing. Teaming bold colours for the cabinets with subdued walls in a complementary or contrasting colour and this works really well with blue kitchens,’ says xx Homebase.

How do you decorate a blue kitchen?

‘Make sure to look for paint that is washable and scrubbable,’ says Susie Spence, Trend Expert and Head of Interiors at B&Q. ‘If you’re looking to make an impact with blue, position it alongside neutral countertops to really make the colour pop.’

‘Tones of grey and white with darker blues are perfect for creating those cosy moments. Lighter shades of blue, such as sky blue, can work perfectly with greys, whites, or blacks, and create a more vibrant feel.’

The post Blue kitchen ideas – 10 ways to brighten with shades of blue appeared first on Ideal Home.

Although there are alternatives to shower tile ideas, such as waterproof panels, tiles are still the most popular choice – with so many fantastic shapes and colours to choose from. What you choose largely depends on the size of the room and the look you want to achieve. Your tile of choice could be used across the whole bathroom, or to create a contrast, or to zone the space.

Try using a different shaped bathroom tile idea in the shower to the rest of the room to create a designer look. A stylish shower tile idea can transform an ordinary room into something extra glamorous or create a calming vibe for showering at the end of the day.

Shower Tile Ideas

From colourful, strong patterns to muted, classic marble or natural stone, it all depends on your individual style as to what you choose for your shower tile idea. A touch of gold for a luxurious feel, using your favourite colour, or a simple, no-nonsense approach, the right tiles can make or break your shower room. Just ensure you choose correctly so they stand the test of time.

Bathroom tiles can bring interest and texture to a neutral room or could give your shower room the wow-factor. Is it an en-suite shower? Or does all the family use it? This could affect which tile idea you opt for.

It also depends on whether the shower room is the only bathroom in the house or whether it is an en-suite to a master bedroom or a second bathroom. If it’s an en-suite or an adults-only space, you can choose exactly what you want, as only you will see it, so you can choose a design that is personal to you, or with colours that team with the bedroom. Need some inspiration? Then read on.

1. Go for an all over look

Image credit: Future PLC/ Adam Carter

Marble tiles have been popular since Roman times for their good looks and durability. Marble is a natural stone, so each tile is different, but they are expensive as they have to be quarried, and they are heavy, so now there are lots of lookalikes available in hard-wearing composite materials such as quartz, which are pretty indestructible and look like the real thing.

Choosing the same tile for the whole bathroom and not just the shower gives a cohesive look and works especially well in small spaces. Here it has been used on the floor as well. It’s the perfect tile for a spa hotel-style bathroom idea.

‘Marble is the go-to when it comes to opulent finishes, but it does come with a pretty hefty price tag.’ says Abbas Youssefi, Director of Porcelain Superstore. ‘Today’s faux marble alternatives are indistinguishable from their ‘real’ counterparts, emulating the same natural movement you’d expect in the real thing. They are the perfect choice for a luxury bathroom with the minimal amount of upkeep required.’

2. Disguise the floor level

Image credit: Future PLC/ Chris Snook

If you have a step in your bathroom, disguise it by using the same tile on the whole floor and the step up. Using a patterned tile like these geometric floor tiless really helps with this. Add a simple glass screen which is barely noticeable and makes the shower seem much bigger than it is – perfect in a small space.

Then for the main shower tile idea, use simple, white metro tiles in a classic brick pattern to make the bathroom seem larger. Painting the ceiling the same colour as the walls pulls the whole scheme together.

3. Define the space

Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole

To differentiate the different zones within a bathroom, the area to the left of the window makes a natural break and is the perfect spot for the shower, which has been tiled in Carrara marble for a luxurious look.

The rest of the room is painted black to set it apart from the shower area. A star design black and white floor has been used to add pattern and interest to the floor.

4. Create an interesting shape

Image credit: CTD Tiles

Who said tiles had to be square? Hexagon shapes have been big news recently so why not make the most of their shape and lay them in an irregular shape? It’s a great way to add a design feature. Continue them onto the floor to add even more wow factor.

Buy now: Varadero Azure Hexagon tiles, £59.99 per sq m, CTD Tiles

5. Make a statement with patterned shower tiles

Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles

If you love a particular design, use it all over! This small shower room has been given the wow-factor with a star design tile which has been used in the shower area and also on the floor.

The small windowsill is useful for toiletries but is far enough away from the shower so that is doesn’t get waterlogged. Add black and white towels for the perfect finishing touch. The heated towel rail is within easy reach when you step out of the shower.

6. Maximise a small space

Image credit: Future Plc/Davide Lovatti

If you have an awkward-shaped room like this one under the eaves, make it into a wet room idea. Place the shower head on the wall with the most head height and use large size tiles on the floor making sure you have proper drainage for the water, especially on an upper floor like this with bedrooms beneath.

Tile the whole room in one colour, in this case longer white Metro tiles in a classic pattern, to make it look bigger. Research small shelving ideas that tuck neatly into a corner and don’t take up much space.

7. Go for colour

These deep emerald green tiles in the shower area are in a beautiful geometric shape with a mottled finish which gives a naturalistic, undulating look and have also been used on the floor to give a relaxing showering experience. The chevron tiles on the basin wall are in the same colour blended with black and white to create a contrast. The shaped mirror is the perfect finishing touch.

Buy Now: Diamond Chevron wall tiles, Popham Design

8. Introduce subtle colour

Image credit: Future PLC/ Jamie Mason

The window is the deciding factor in this bathrooms tiling scheme. Grey Metro tiles have been used in a brick pattern up to just above half height on the window wall and continued on the far wall before being tiled to full height in the shower area.

Grey is the perfect colour for a period look with vintage-style sanitaryware and a wooden floor, then add pops of colour with a yellow stool, towel and accessories.

9. Tile in two tones

Image credit: Mandarin Stone

In a fully tiled shower area why not use contrasting colours and a geometric design tile? These square, porcelain tiles come in different colours – black and white and pink and white complement each other perfectly and make a striking design that is easy to live with.

Buy now: Geo in mono and pink, £43.13 per sq m, Mandarin Stone

10. Change layout direction

Image credit: Future PLC

Another shower room under the eaves but this time with a black frame shower enclosure that tucks neatly into the highest part of the roof. To accentuate the shape of the angle, long metro tiles have been used diagonally up into the corner and then down into the corner.

It’s a great way to make the shape a feature rather than trying to disguise it. A black and white tiled floor has a smaller tile design to suit the size of the room and to add pattern.

11. Go for a stone effect

Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles

Natural stone is lovely but can be heavy, especially if used upstairs, whereas porcelain tiles are so easy to work with, they make a good, and cheaper alternative. They look like the real thing and work better with underfloor heating as they are thinner.

This bathroom has been divided into two to make the best use of the space, with the shower on one side and the loo and washbasin on the other side of a partition wall. The same tiles have been used on the walls and floor but the floor tiles are in a slightly darker shade, and check out that basin!

12. Mix it up

Image credit: Crosswater

Terrazzo tiles are big news right now and look great in bathrooms of all sizes. This corner wall has been covered in a small chip terrazzo with a pink tone which has been picked up in the gloss floor and the wall. For contrast, the other shower wall is in small mosaic tiles in white, the glass finish gives a lustre effect to reflect the light.

What is the most popular tile for showers?

‘Large-format tiles have grown in popularity for shower spaces in recent years, as they make for easier cleaning than smaller formats with lots of grout lines.’ says Louisa Swannell, Head of Creative Design at Walls and Floors. ‘Not only are they practical, but larger tiles also offer a sleek, seamless look that’s perfect for opening up a space! Go for a bold design, such as a marble effect, to create a real feature of the shower space’

What is the best colour for bathroom tiles?

‘White still remains a popular colour choice and it’s easy to see why, as it works well in a small space and if you choose a tile with a polished/gloss finish it will also help reflect natural light.’ says Colin Lincoln-Evans, buyer at Tile Mountain.

‘However, if that’s not for you then we’d suggest going for a neutral colour such as grey, or a natural stone effect such as marble. These will provide longevity and you can easily update the look with complementing colourful accessories.’

What can I use instead of tiles in my shower?

‘Wall panelling has become hugely popular for walk-in showers. You can create a luxurious statement look, without the cost and hassle of tiling, plus it’s much easier to keep clean.’ says Steph Harris, Product Manager of Showerwall. ‘No grout means less build-up of mould and soap residue.

‘And there’s no need to re-seal or re-grout over time, so they are really low maintenance. Simply wipe the panels clean to keep them looking fresh. Showerwall panels create a fully watertight system, with a seamless, solid and durable surface. If you’re confident at DIY, you can fit the panels yourself or ask a bathroom installer, builder or Showerwall fitter.’

‘They can be installed on either a clean plastered wall or over existing tiles,’ Steph explains. ‘Plus its up to six times faster than tiling, which keeps labour costs down and speeds up your bathroom renovation. You can choose from tile-effects like Subway, Herringbone and Marble, or be bold with wallpaper-inspired designs including Botanicals and Vintage Birds. There is even the option of custom bespoke panels, featuring your own photo, design or artwork for a unique bathroom look that’s personal to you.’

The post Shower tile ideas – 12 ways to tile shower enclosures big or small appeared first on Ideal Home.

It might not be the first thing you think of when giving your garden a refresh, but garden fence ideas can go a long way to giving yours a brand, new look. Whether its just a lick of paint, or if you’re planning on swapping out your old fence entirely, we got lots of ideas to get you started.

Knowing what your options are will help make the process easier, and depending on your garden landscaping  will indicate whether you need to start a fresh, or just give your current fencing a facelift.

Garden fence ideas

The best garden fence ideas can bring structure, texture, definition and joy to your outdoor space. After a long winter, it’s lovely to be able to get out into the garden again. But if you’re to enjoy the space at its very best, some work will be involved, whether it’s replacing or maintaining a garden fence, weeding and mowing, or redesigning some key features to give your garden a whole new look.

The garden fence is one element of a garden that’s often overlooked and relegated to the realms of the practical. A fence’s main function might be to separate one garden from another, providing a handy boundary that we all respect, but we shouldn’t underestimate its importance. The type of fence you have can really affect the look of your garden.

1. Turn things on their head

Image credit: Future Plc/Joanna Henderson

Think outside the box when it comes to your fencing and get creative. You don’t have to use fence panels in the orientation they were necessarily intended, especially if it doesn’t suit your space. Here, fence panels with vertical panels have been turned on their sides and joined together to create fencing that works better for the space. It also allows the home owner to hang potted plants and gardening tools from the horizontal slats, creating storage space too.

2. Break it up with bamboo

Image credit: Future Plc/David Giles

Garden fences are not only used along the boundaries of your space, but can also be used to zone different areas within your plot too. Bamboo screens are great for this as they are lightweight so you can install them yourself, plus have a malleable quality to them, making them great for all spaces. They can also be cut to the size you need, and any off-cuts make lovely flower bed borders.

3. Take it back to black

Image credit: Future Plc/Colin Poole

Black might seem like a bold choice for garden fencing, but by painting yours in this shade, will actually make the greenery around it seem greener! Fresh green shades up against the black of your fence will make them stand out even more and gives a contemporary look thats easy to achieve. Finish the look by hanging a string of fairy lights along the top, which at night will create a cosy glow against your fencing.

4. Encourage ivy to grow in abundance

Image credit: Future Plc/Colin Poole

If it’s not an option to replace your fencing, perhaps you can try and disguise it a little instead. Creepers and climbing plants like ivy, will happily grow up and over walls, fences, panelling and more, so while it’s fine to plant it up where you want this to happen, be aware that ivy can spread quite quickly and cause some damage to walls over a long period of time. That might sound a bit scary, so while with maintenance ivy is easy to grow and live with, you could always opt for some panels of faux greenery to disguise ugly fencing instead.

5. Pop up a potting bench

Image credit: Future Plc

Turn your garden fencing into the backdrop for a potting station. Instead of your garden ending with just a solid fence, break it a bit by setting up a potting bench and work station to enjoy all summer long. Fixing up a couple of shelves will give you space to display potted plants and garden accessories.

6. Echo your fencing around the garden

Image credit: Future Plc/Annaick Guitteny

If you have chosen a contemporary fencing that creates a feature in your garden, why not echo that feature to other areas too? Here the homeowner has made a bench with similar slim panels of wood as the fence behind, tying the whole space together. Thin, horizontal slats of wood are a modern, fresh look for fencing and whether painted or left bare, are perfect for courtyard and turf covered gardens alike.

7. Take it up a level

Image credit: Future Plc/Cece Wilden

Use traditional lap fence panels to align the different levels of the perimeter of a garden. Run the design alongside an incline or stepped paving to create a continuation of the fence, rather than adding different height levels – making it feel disjointed.  Rather than staining or painting the panels, simply seal them with a coat of wood preserving varnish for an understated finish.

8. Paint a feature wall

Image credit: Sadolin

Update an old fence with new season trends with a splash of paint, creating a feature wall within your garden.  Try creating an ombre effect by choosing several colours in the same paint family. This delicious earthy colour palette is a mix of ‘Bleached Rose’; ‘Sandbank’; ‘Gingerbread’ and ‘Sharon Fruit’ all by exterior paint specialists Sadolin.

9. Make a playful statement with a two-tone panel

Image credit: Cuprinol

‘Create a striking look for your fence in two tones,’ advises Cuprinol & Dulux creative director, Marianne Shillingford. ‘Keep the darker colour at the bottom to show off brightly coloured furniture and to make floral arrangements pop. All it takes is a bit of masking tape to get a sharp line between the divide.’

10. Soften the look with spacing 

Image credit: Future Plc/Annaick Guitteny

If your property is not over looked you may not wish to erect a solid fence panels. This slatted fence is a soften approach to setting the boundaries of a garden, without making it feel enclosed. The slim gaps between the slats allows a glimpse of the greenery beyond, in a sense extending the view of the garden – while still framing the grounds.

11. Create a country vibe with woven willow twigs

Image credit: Future Plc/Spike Powell

Give your garden a country-style feel with the addition of woven willow branch garden fence panels. Enhance the look by using vintage fruit boxes and crates stacked to form open storage shelves, storing, flowerpots and wellies.

12. Bolt-on a neon pink trellis

Image credit: Future Plc/Jamie Mason

Give an old brown wooden fence a splash of colour with a colourful trellis. Fences are perfect for attaching trellis for climbing plants too. A vibrant trellis is a cheap and easy way to give your fence an easy, yet practical facelift.

13. Repurpose old shutters as fences

Image credit: Future Plc/Tim Young

Create an innovative garden fence that has plenty of eco credentials by repurposing old shutters. Start by giving the shutters a coat of paint. Grey is a good colour for a backdrop, as it pretty much goes with everything, but white would look fab, too, especially when it starts to become rougher and less pristine. Add hooks to your shutter fence and use them to display pretty potted plants – buckets work well, as their handles make them easy to hang.

14. Pick trellis-style fencing that climbers will love

Image credit: Future Plc/Colin Poole

A trellis fence is ideal screening one part of a garden from another without losing too much light. And if you’re a fan of climbers like magnolia, it’s also a cost-effective two-in-one option.

15. Create privacy with a fence extension

Image credit: Future Plc/Colin Poole

This beautiful low wall has so much character, it would be a shame to cover it up with full fence panels. Similarly, building it higher to give the owners more privacy would be costly and could make the space feel too institutional. This fence ‘extension’ has been carefully selected in a colour that complements the brickwork, and its horizontal slats have a contemporary feel to chime in with the landscaping’s mix of traditional and modern.

16. Mount on an outdoor kitchen

Image credit: Cuprinol

A slatted fence panel can be so much more! By adding a protective pergola above, a countertop and a shelf for storage, you can build up an outdoor kitchen for next to nothing. A little imagination, basic DIY skills and some timber can go a long way – add baskets for storing pots, pans and fuel for your outdoor cooker, and hang festoon lights so that you can cook well into the evening.

17. Paint your garden fence to make it colourful and cheery

Image credit: Future Plc/James Merrell

Let your garden fence stand out from the crowd with a stylish colour clash. If you’re a brave sort, give your garden furniture a makeover at the same time. This picture shows that there are no rules. You could go for just one bold shade or divide your fence up into multiple panels – make masking tape your friend to achieve a perfectly straight line.

18. Camouflage in green

Image credit: Future Plc/Jeremy Baile

If you don’t want your garden fence stand out from the crowd with bold colours, make it blend in with a coat of green paint. A serene shade of green helps to make this garden fence camouflage into the foliage. You can add colour through other mediums, from a string of decorative bunting and jolly striped outdoor cushions.

19. Go for an on-trend grey fence

Image credit: Future Plc/Simon Whitmore

Use your garden fence as part of an outdoor kitchen. Take your barbecuing as seriously as the Aussies by moving your kitchen into the garden during the fine-weather months and using your fence as a handy place to store the bits and bobs you need. Hang utensils in close reach of the action, along with a rack for all your favourite sauces. You could even place a clock on the ‘wall’, so you can make sure burgers and steaks don’t get cremated.

20. Open the boundaries with rustic materials

Image credit: Future Plc/Claire Richardson

To prevent a garden fence from feeling too imposing or constraining it’s an idea to use rustic materials to break up the design. A willow twig fence design is given a softer edge thanks to infilled panels of chicken wire – providing a secure design but allowing a view through. Use this for doora and gates, teamed with willow woven fence panels for the main fenced area.

21. Decorate your garden fence with colourful tealight holders

Image credit: Future Plc/Mel Yates

Take a garden fence with a trellis top and jazz it up with jam-jar-style tealight holders that look super pretty even during daylight hours. Use secure but unobtrusive nails to hang them so that they look almost like they’re floating. A variety of shades will work well, but clear jam-jar tealights would also look great. At night, enjoy their warm glow from the comfort of a nearby garden chair – bliss.

22. Create a secluded dining area with willow fencing

Image credit: Future Plc/Brent Darby

Go for a garden fence that is extra high so that it will provide all the privacy you could ever need – especially if you have curious neighbours. This fence features narrow lengths of willow that create a bamboo-style effect, ideal for screening an existing fence if you don’t want to start completely from scratch. Willow screening fence panels can also add height to a short wall or fence, or you could even use it to keep the compost heap hidden from view.

23. Opt for a modern, low horizontal design

Image credit: Future Plc/Winfried Heinze

Mount a wooden garden fence on top of a concrete border for an elegant and modern scheme that has the feel of a room, complete with ‘skirting board’. Not only does this contemporary garden fence look great, but it will also keep the gravel neatly in place. Go for horizontal wooden panels so that everything is flowing in a similar direction – a smart mid-toned varnish will be the perfect finish.

24. Decorate your garden trellis

Image credit: Future Plc/Simon Scarboro

Paint a garden fence white to create a pretty country look that will really brighten up your garden. The gaps in this trellis fence have been used to hang some characterful buys, such as a ‘Welcome to my garden’ sign. A garden trellis has other advantages, too, from providing a helpful place to train climbing plants to offering privacy without blocking rays of sunlight.

25. Paint your picket fence in an array of colours

Image credit: Alun Callender

Use a fence to create a front garden with a difference. This design has been painted in colourful shades that make passers-by feel that bit happier. We all dream of a white picket fence, but if you’re lucky enough to have one, why not take the plunge and go for something a little more daring? Paint your fence in pastel hues for a pretty, rather than garish, look.

26. Mix your materials to create an unique look

Image credit: Future Plc/David Woolley

For a unique take on a garden fence, combine stone and wood in a Jenga-style arrangement. Here, this has been done not just for the effect, but also for practical reasons – stone will endure a good soaking from the outdoor shower far better than wood. With a garden fence like this, the emphasis is on quality natural materials with an innate beauty of their own.

27. Match the woodwork

Image credit: Future Plc/Paul Dudley

Uniform the look of your garden by matching the colour on all the woodwork, from the garden fence to the raised beds and planters.

28. Charm with a picturesque picket fence

Image credit: Future Plc/Adam Wallis

When it comes to garden fencing you can’t get much more idyllic than a traditional white picket fence surrounding the property. A charming picket fence in white is ideal for both front and back gardens to create a picturesque enclosure for your home. As picket fencing only offers a low level partition it might not be suitable for homes that require more security – such as households with children and pets.

What’s the cheapest fence to build?

The cheapest fence to build is most commonly one made of chicken wire with a wooden frame, but it of course depends on how big the building requirements are. Standard fence Lap panels from any major DIY retailer are the most affordable and most popular choice for gardens of all shapes and sizes. More decorative fence panels will cost you more but they do add an extra style element to your garden design.

Essentially you can make garden fencing using any panels of wood, whether bought new or reused from a previous project. You could also try and source left over wood from sites such as Gumtree or FreeCycle.

How can I make my garden fence look good?

You can transform an existing garden fence easily with a fresh coat of stain or a paint colour. This method also means you can change the look of the garden with each season, as colour trends change. You can choose to paint the entirety of the fence or simply paint panels or even patterns to add interest. Adding decorative touches such as overlay panels or signage can add character to a functional garden fence.

You could also dress your fencing with lights, bunting or garlands.

What fencing is best for gardens?

It totally depends on what type of garden you have and what style you want to opt for. Urban gardens might benefit from simple, contemporary style fencing, while country gardens can carry off a more ornate design. If you live in a rural location, you might need fencing that keeps wild animals out, (or small pets in!) or you might need fencing that enhances a view, but still makes your feel secure. If you’re going to invest in quality fencing, be sure to do your research first as well as check with your neighbours that they are happy for the changes to be made first!

Additional words: Holly Walsh

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