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

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

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

The insulation in your home has a lifespan, and it’s important to know when it is time to replace it, as our building expert explains

Got a burning question about your self-build, extension or home renovation project that you need an answer for? Just drop us a line by emailing homebuilding@futurenet.com and your question could be answered by one of our magazine experts

Bob explains how to make careful use of ashes to give your garden a brilliant boost