Hugh Metcalf
Hugh is the Editor of Livingetc.com. From working on a number of home, design and property publications and websites, including Grand Designs, ICON and specialist kitchen and bathroom magazines, Hugh has developed a passion for modern architecture, impactful interiors and green homes. Whether moonlighting as an interior decorator for private clients or renovating the Victorian terrace in Essex where he lives (DIYing as much of the work as possible), you’ll find that Hugh has an overarching fondness for luxurious minimalism, abstract shapes and all things beige. He’s just finished a kitchen and garden renovation, and has eyes set on a bathroom makeover for 2024.
Latest articles by Hugh Metcalf
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Modern rustic decor – top designers reveal their secrets for styling the trend
These inspiring designers know a thing or two about how to style the modern rustic decor look
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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What is human-centric lighting? Meet the smart controls we think every home will have in the future
Human-centric lighting systems claim to help boost your wellbeing at home. Here's how they work
By Hugh Metcalf Last updated
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8 ways architects design multigenerational homes to keep all the family happy
Multigenerational homes, where three generations all live together, aren't uncommon, but how do you design them for a harmonious life?
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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Can you decorate a home with just black and white? This modern cottage proves it's an option
For this guest house in Connecticut, the interior designers used a strict black and white color scheme. Here's how they made it work
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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How to install a window AC unit – the myth-busting advice from the experts you need to know
Learn how to install a window AC unit yourself with this advice from the professionals
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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What is organic modern style? Get to know the trending interior mood that's having a viral moment
Organic modern style is trending, but what exactly is this new design phenomenon? Designers explain, and offer their styling tips
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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Is shiplap out of style? Interior tastemakers on whether you should try this trend in 2024
We ask some of our favorite designers if shiplap is still in fashion. Plus, they offer advice for making this wallcovering work in a modern scheme
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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How to use a fan to cool down a room - expert hacks to make your fan work harder during hot weather
Learn how to use a fan to cool down a room more efficiently with these quick hacks
By Hugh Metcalf Last updated
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Boho nursery ideas – 10 ways to put a whimsical twist on a grown up trend
Boho nursery ideas are a go-to when decorating for a new baby. Discover how to give your design an unexpected twist with these inspiring real spaces
By Hugh Metcalf Last updated
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What is spatial audio? A beginner's guide to more immersive sound in your home
Spatial audio is the future of sound in your home, but what is it? And how can you watch TV and films, and listen to music with three-dimensional audio?
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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The rise of the hobby room – 7 lessons from architects and designers about dedicating space to your passions
Is it worth dedicating space in your home to a hobby room? These designers think so...
By Hugh Metcalf Last updated
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Dining room window treatments – elevated looks to try, from casual styles to formal ideas
Unsure of what dining room window treatments to choose? From shades to curtains, here are the best modern looks to try
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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This is the secret to outdoor dining when you're short on space, says interior design expert Bobby Berk
Plus, get decor inspiration for your al fresco dining table from our Queer Eye favorite
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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How high to hang a curtain rod – experts explain how to make your room feel bigger with this simple trick
Experts reveal how high to hang a curtain rod to make the most of your room's proportions
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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An interior designer completely redesigned this Manhattan apartment in just 90 days from start to finish
Justin Charette proved that a challenging deadline doesn't have to get in the way of creating a beautiful home
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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How to measure a window for blinds, plus the most common measuring mistakes you need to avoid
Learning how to measure a window for blinds is essential before you order. Here, we get the expert lowdown on what (and what not) to do
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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The best sage green paint colors to try for a calming, on-trend look
Looking for the best sage green paint colors to decorate your home? Here's our pick of the best buys for this stylish, calming sage
By Hugh Metcalf Last updated
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Before and after – see how Bobby Berk transformed this Spanish-style vacation rental in California
The Queer Eye star's Palm Desert property has gone from fixer upper to fabulous. Take the tour of this inspiring space
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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How to vacuum a pool – expert advice for keeping your swimming pool spotless
Learn how to vacuum a pool so that you can remove dirt and debris from the bottom, without emptying it of water
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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Slat wall ideas – 8 spaces that show how interior designers are elevating this wall paneling trend
With slat wall ideas one of the big interior design trends of the moment, we explore 8 of the best architect and interior designer projects using this wall covering
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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Should you paint ceilings and walls the same color? An expert guide to the 'color drenching' trend
Wondering if you should paint ceilings and walls in the same color? Short answer, yes! We examine the color drenching paint trend taking over interiors right now
By Hugh Metcalf Published
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What is ‘barkitecture’? This is how designers are bringing pets to the forefront of their projects
Designing a home that makes living with pets easier, and more aesthetically pleasing, might just be the key to a happy home. We meet the designers tasked with making spaces that work for humans and animals too
By Hugh Metcalf Last updated
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What is the Coastal Grandmother trend? Designers explain the origins of this viral sensation
A trend for timeless, elevated coastal interiors inspired by romantic movies is being embraced under a new name, Coastal Grandmother, and by a new audience
By Hugh Metcalf Last updated
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This designer TV trend is about to redefine how you lay out your living room, say experts
With impossibly chic new releases on the horizon, the freestanding TV trend is about to free up your home to new, more exciting layouts. Here's what you need to know about it
By Hugh Metcalf Published