The gentle crackling of a fire is one of winter’s joys and it can be even more heartening when the fireplace area is decorated with panache

Bringing a dilapidated barn back to life using sympathetic materials proved a winning move for John and Cat Frankitti

Discover the measures taken to radically improve the thermal performance of these existing homes

THE FIREPLACE HAS SURVIVED CENTURIES OF CHANGE TO EMERGE IN ALL ITS GLORY AS THE FOCAL POINT OF THE LONDON RECEPTION ROOM, DISCOVERS ANNE CUTHBERTSON

It’s the master of disguise design feature that can turn a standard exterior into a stunning spectacle – here’s how to get the most from your chosen build material

Whether you choose a timeless wood burner, an effortless gas model or a minimalist electric or biofuel design, banish the winter chill with a cosy stove that brings both warmth and atmosphere