Decorating a listed or period property
In Westminster, the first decorating decision is what to retain. A useful heritage brief records the building, existing surfaces and intended change before it describes a new colour.
Practical advicePlanning office decorating
An office painting programme is only useful when it reflects the rooms that can be released and the building’s access requirements. Put those decisions alongside preparation and materials before comparing proposals.
Practical advicePlanning common parts redecoration
A shared-building decorating instruction needs to define what belongs in the work, who may authorise it and how people will continue to reach their homes. Start with a measured list of surfaces and a route through the building.
Practical advicePlanning an exterior painting programme
An exterior programme begins with the elevation and the space needed to reach it. In Westminster, material choices, property permissions and highway arrangements should be resolved together.
Practical adviceChoosing colours for a London home
Use the room itself to make colour decisions, with samples viewed in changing light.
Practical adviceWhat wall preparation should cover
Good preparation begins with assessing the wall, rather than assuming every room needs the same treatment.
Practical adviceChoosing a paint finish
Sheen, appearance, substrate and everyday use all belong in a paint specification.
Practical adviceWhat determines a decorating quote
A useful quote explains the scope and assumptions. A price without those details is difficult to compare.
Practical advicePlanning sash window decoration
A window schedule helps distinguish painting from timber repairs and work on the opening mechanism.
Practical advicePlanning wallpaper installation
Choose the paper with the wall, pattern repeat and finishing details in mind.
Practical adviceStains and damp before decorating
Establish why a mark is there before deciding how to cover it.
Practical adviceUnderstanding low-VOC paint options
A low-VOC description is one piece of product information, not a complete specification.
Practical adviceIs cabinet repainting suitable?
Assess the doors, frames and existing finish before deciding whether to repaint a kitchen.