In recent months sales in DIY stores have taken a dip as homeowners seem keen to focus their attention on garden improvements during the summer months.

Figures recently released from B&Q reveal that sales of DIY products have fallen by 4.4%. This is a similar trend in other areas of home improvements, such as decorating, refurbishing, made to measure curtains and carpeting.

With the onset of warm weather families find themselves making use of their outside space. Revamping or improving the garden becomes a top priority in the summer months. New decking and patios are popular as are new garden furniture and BBQ equipment. As us Brits make the most of our short British summer, indoor interior design projects are put on the back burner.

With more people opting to work from home, how you design and organise you workspace is important as you need to be able to work not only in a comfortable environment but a productive and inspirational one.

If you are unable to invest in a contemporary garden studio office or an extension to your home most of us will either end up using the smallest unused space in the house or work from the kitchen or dining room table. Organisation is the key to an efficient office space. A purpose built work space is ideal if you are working from a small space under the stairs for example. It is vital you have adequate storage so if you are utilising a general household space you can easily pack away your work equipment.

If you are fortunate to have a designated home office minimalist furniture works well as it will create a spacious feeling. A light shade of paint coupled with pale made to measure curtains or blinds can create a sense of calmness helping you to create a work/home balance.

Decorating a small apartment to make it appear larger than it really is can be a challenge but by following a few important tips it is possible to make the most of a small space.

Decluttering is essential. Using concealed storage units is ideal to hide away all your belongings allowing your apartment to appear as spacious as possible. The whole look and feel of the room should be simple and uncomplicated. Use room dividers made out of light wood or glass to define certain areas to make use of all space available. Mirrors are important as they reflect light and can create the feeling of space.

Furniture should be versatile. For example sofas can be used as beds and seating can conceal storage units. Many companies now offer a range of bathroom furniture which is smaller than average size so compact bathrooms can be fully fitted out. Walls should be painted a light shade in order to create a sense of space and pale fabric should be used for made to measure curtains, coordinating cushions and throws to complete the whole look and style of a room.

Revamping a bathroom can make a big impact on your home. If you are trying to selling you house the bathroom along with the kitchen can be a key selling feature.

Often all that is required is a few simple changes from new taps to towels, the addition of a mirror or newmade to measure curtains in order to brighten up a tired bathroom. Recent research revealed that the bathroom is a popular project for DIY enthusiasts.

Decluttering can make a huge difference. It is essential to use suitable storage units and cupboards. Hooks and rails are convenient for robes and towels freeing up floor space. New flooring, such as vinyl covering or laminate is hygienic and easy to clean. Finally a lick of paint is a quick and easy way to freshen up any bathroom

The most popular form of window dressing is curtains or drapes. Not only do they serve to keep the heat in and the cold out but they provide privacy. The texture and design of the curtain can completely change the look and feel of a room so it’s important to carefully consider the options available.

Whether you are opting for made to measure curtains, readymade or you are proficient at making your own, choosing the right curtain fabric can be daunting. You need to firstly consider whether your room is north or south facing. A cold north facing room often needs a light material to allow in more light and a bright room may need a heavier material to block out bright sunlight.

A light soft material, such as silk or acrylic can provide a light and airy feel to a room. In comparison a heavy linen or velvet fabric can create a warm and cosy feeling. Other popular curtain fabrics include calico, cotton, damask and muslin. One good tip is to use the same material for the curtains, scatter cushions and a throw so the whole look and feel can be brought together creating the original desired effect.

A number of well known fashion designer are turning their hand to interior designing. From introducing new interior collections through to redesigning hotels they are moving their vision from fashion to interiors.

Internationally renowned fashion designer John Paul Gaultier has recently joined forces with the furniture house Roche Bubois and has created a range of limited edition furniture such as a mirror, chair and wardrobe. Gaultier explains “I only know how to dress clothes, so in a way I “dressed” the furniture”. He went on to add that “I had a wonderful partner in Roche Bobias who could supervise the production and turn my drawings into a reality”.

Bruno Basso and Chris Brooke, both famous for dressing Michelle Obama, have collaborated with wine company Turning Leaf and have brought out not only a limited edition wine cabinet but wine tables and lampshades. From cushions to made to measure curtains fashion designers from all walks of life are delving into the world of interior design.