Emily Shaw
Emily first (temporarily) joined the Real Homes team while interning on her summer break from university. After graduating, she worked on several publications before joining Real Homes as Staff Writer full time in mid-2018. She left the brand in 2020 to pursue another career, but still loves a second-hand bargain and sourcing unique finds to make her rented flat reflect her personality.
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How to kill maggots: effective techniques to get rid of fly larvae
Stop maggot infestations in their tracks
By Christina Chrysostomou Last updated
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How to make a reed diffuser: 4 steps to frugally fragrance your home
Save money on designer diffusers and learn how to make a reed diffuser with this super-easy DIY reed diffuser tutorial
By Holly Phillips Last updated
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How to tile a backsplash: a DIY guide for beginners
Knowing how to tile a backsplash will make a big difference to the look and function of your kitchen. DIY to save on the cost of calling in a professional.
By Emily Shaw Published
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20 front door ideas: designs for style, function and added curb appeal
The best front door ideas will combine good looks and curb appeal with function and security to enhance your home's appearance from the outside in.
By Emily Shaw Published
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Want to switch off web notifications? Here's how for Chrome, Safari and Android
Here's how to turn off web notifications in less than five minutes...
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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The best IKEA hacks – 21 creative ways to update your furniture
Looking for the best IKEA hacks? We've rounded up some of the easiest ones out there...
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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56 home office ideas – inspiring designs for working spaces big and small
These home office ideas will help you create a stylish space – big or small – that will boost productivity.
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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House extension suppliers: a sourcebook of the top 50 extension essentials
Locate the best suppliers that are still open for business, for all things house extensions-related. Plus, we've tons of extension planning and design advice too
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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How to measure for curtains: a DIY guide for beautifully-dressed windows
Learning how to measure curtains correctly involves working out the ideal dimensions. Here, we drop it like it's hot
By Emily Shaw Published
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Best smart lock: secure your home with these top picks
The best smart locks to boost your security and keep your smart home more connected, from Yale, eufy, August and more
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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Making your bedroom eco-friendly can improve sleep quality (and your sex life)
Want to create an eco-friendly bedroom? Serious about reducing your environmental impact and want to start in your sleep space? You're likely to sleep better if you do...
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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How to care for houseplants (without killing them) – keep indoor plants happy
Caring for house plants is tricky business. This is how to stop brown leaves and more to keep your indoor plants happy.
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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Best smart bulb: upgrade your living space with enhanced home lighting and security
Invest in the best smart bulbs for better home security, the ultimate mood lighting and more
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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How to improve your bathroom: 13 ways to spruce up your space
After some tips on how to improve your bathroom? From simple, budget-friendly changes to ideas for overhauling your bathroom entirely, here’s all the inspiration you need
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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U-shaped kitchens – 16 inspiring design ideas for maximum efficiency
A U-shaped kitchen can be one of the most efficient configurations to go for in your cooking space. Combine style and practicality with ease.
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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10 reasons why a boiling water tap is a smart buy for kitchen revamps
Perfect for the winter months, boiling water taps are quickly becoming a household essential. Here are 10 reasons why you need one...
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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How to hang wallpaper in 10 steps
Once you know how to hang wallpaper, you'll be able to freshen up every room in the house. The easiest way to DIY is to use the paste-the-wall method, according to experts.
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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Galley kitchen ideas: 30 stylish looks to make the most of your space
These galley kitchen ideas prove that small spaces can still be functional and big on style...
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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Yellow sofas: 10 of the best
Whether your taste is for mustard or saffron shades, burnt ambers or subtle apricots, find a standout piece in our pick of the best yellow sofas
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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Best smart cat flaps: added security for you and your furry friends
Our pick of the best smart cat flaps can save you and your cat a world of hassle – set curfews, adapt permissions for younger pets, and more
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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34 mirror ideas – decorative designs for a sparkling display
The most stylish mirror ideas will enhance the size, brightness and look of every room in your house.
By Emily Shaw Published
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Luxury bathroom ideas – 30 ways to create a luxe master bathroom
Love the look of a luxe master bathroom? Get five-star style with these luxury bathroom ideas and tips
By Emily Shaw Last updated
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Grey hallway ideas – 28 classic ways to decorate your hall
These grey hallway ideas are stylish, easy to copy and totally timeless...
By Emily Shaw Published
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Reading nook ideas: 23 inspiring reading corner designs for book lovers
These cozy reading nook ideas will instantly make you want to curl up with a good book and a comforting hot chocolate. Mmmmm...
By Emily Shaw Published