Staying In

Try Something New In The Kitchen

A house wouldn’t be a home without a kitchen. It’s said that, on average, we’ll spend around seven years of our lives there – cooking, eating, socialising and, eventually, cleaning – making it the heart of the house. Its role in day-to-day life also makes it one of the most popular spaces to renovate. But how are people doing up their kitchens in 2026? According to the experts, this year will be all about mix-and-match design. ‘We’re seeing customers moving away from completely matching cabinetry towards a more mix-and-match style,’ notes Fred Herlock, design director at Neptune. ‘Think complementary paint colours being used on wall cabinets to base cabinets, mixing natural wood finishes with painted, or freestanding kitchen furniture like larders and islands alongside more traditional, fitted cabinetry. This gives the sense that the kitchen has evolved over time, evoking vintage kitchens of old, and helps to give the kitchen personality and warmth with the use of different colours, textures and materials.’ For more kitchen transformation ideas, see our report on 2026’s top trends here.

Going Out

Book A Valentine’s Dinner

It’s rather last minute to be booking your dinner date for St Valentine’s Day, but – fear not – tables remain. We’ve rounded up the capital’s prime spots for a romantic meal out, whether you’re seeking a splurge thrill or to save. But should the former appeal, pan-Asian GŎNG bar’s £498-for-two menu is the one to plump for. Sat on the dizzying 52nd floor of the Shard, there’s no better spot on this side of the Alps to soak the starry sights in – it’s the highest hotel bar in Western Europe after all. Expect unapologetic fine-dining, from lobster okonomiyaki and a towering maki roll of salmon, hamachi and tuna to wagyu gyoza topped with Oscietra caviar and black truffle, alongside a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Rosé. Book via gong-shangri-la.com

Property Of The Day

A unique Georgian property in the Royal Mews beside Windsor Castle, Church Lodge was once owned by the neighbouring castle. More recently kept by a Lord, this historic home has been visited by the likes of Prince William, Prince Harry, Cliff Richard and Gloria Hunniford.

On the market for £1.75m, azrealestate.uk 

Little Luxury

Launched to coincide with yesterday’s National Snowdrop Day, natural fragrance brand GROVE England’s new Snowdrop scent is inspired by nature’s spring awakening – with the delicate yet cold-hardy flower one of the first to unfurl its buds. And the fragrance itself? Fresh and airy with a soft, earthy base. Here’s to new beginnings! Snowdrop Eau de Parfum, 50ml, £120. grove-england.com

Competition Time

Looking for a refined escape on Portugal’s sun-drenched Algarve coast? Victoria Golf Resort & Spa, managed by Accor, offers a sophisticated stay where championship golf, wellness, and laid-back luxury come together in one of the region’s most sought-after destinations. And here’s your chance to win a stay.

Psssst…

Today is National Pizza Day, AKA an excuse to treat yourself to dinner at one of London’s top pizzerias.

Whatever You Do, Don’t

Forget to take off your make up before going to sleep. ‘I used to be so lazy with my skincare and would hardly ever cleanse my face,’ remembers model Catherine Hurley Arbibe. ‘While I don’t believe in over-cleansing, my approach was a bit extreme.’ Aside from pre-bed rituals, she believes the best thing you can do for your skin is drink lots of water.