Holly Reaney
Holly is one of Ideal Home’s content editors. She started my career in 2018 as a feature writer and sub-editor for Ideal Home’s sister brand Period Living magazine, and writes a wide range of interiors and renovation content ranging from features about designing the perfect kitchen to choosing the right windows for a period home.
Expanding her role, Holly also regularly contribute to Country Homes & Interiors magazine – interviewing leading designers and researching the latest home and garden updates – in addition to pieces on the Ideal Home website. She'a also written features for websites including Homes & Gardens, Real Homes and Gardeningetc.
A keen gardener, Holly has been faced with the challenges of gardening in a rental property leading to a vast array of potted plants – ranging from fruit trees to pretty annuals – and an ever-growing collection of houseplants.
IDEAL HOME TRUTHS
Where’s your happy place?
I’m at my happiest when I’m in nature. I love hiking – especially in the Lake District – there’s something so peaceful about the scenery and I love spotting all the wildlife. I have also recently taken up paddleboarding which is the perfect way to decompress after a busy day.
What’s your home addiction?
Houseplants! I’m running out of surfaces but that doesn’t seem to stop me from buying them. I love to hunt the clearance shelves and rescue unloved plants – there’s something so satisfying about nursing them back to health and watching them thrive.
What is your next home project?
Our current home is a rental so we’re limited in terms of home projects, however, this hasn’t stopped me from putting my stamp on it. I’ve recently been trying my hand at upcycling furniture – I’ve found some beautiful pieces on Ebay and have loved sanding them back and painting them to suit our scheme.
Latest articles by Holly Reaney
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Bathroom flooring ideas to bring wow-factor to your space
Whether you prefer to play with pattern or keep it pared-back, these bathroom flooring ideas will zhuzh up a space
By Holly Reaney
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A modern extension transformed this Grade II listed property into a stunning family home
A sympathetic restoration and a modern extension have given this period property a new start as a practical family home
By Holly Reaney
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7 houseplants you should never place in a bedroom — They could be damaging your sleep
Do you have any of these houseplants in your bedroom? They could be damaging your sleep
By Holly Reaney
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This once cold and compact kitchen has been transformed into a bright open-plan space that works for the whole family
'We used to avoid spending time in the kitchen, now it's our favourite room'
By Holly Reaney
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How often to water your monstera — 3 tricks houseplant pros use to make sure you never get it wrong again
Knowing how often to water monstera can be a challenge – the experts share their secrets to prevent over or under-watering
By Holly Reaney
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Can you prune climbing roses in February? The perfect timing for an abundance of blooms, according to gardening experts
According to gardening experts, you can prune climbing roses in February – in fact, it's the perfect time!
By Holly Reaney
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How to clean a velvet chair and remove stains in 5 easy steps - expert tricks to get it looking like new in no time
Knowing how to clean velvet chairs is essential for keeping your chairs looking their best – the experts reveal their top tips
By Holly Reaney
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Where should I place a fiddle leaf fig plant in my home? The 3 perfect locations. according to houseplant experts
To help you figure out where to place a fiddle leaf fig plant in your home, we've chosen three perfect spots to help you out
By Holly Reaney
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Is it too late to plant tulips in January? You'll be thrilled to know it's not – so long as you are mindful of these things
What you need to know when planting tulip bulbs in January
By Holly Reaney
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How to propagate a fiddle leaf fig – 3 easy steps to grow more of these striking, on-trend houseplants for free
Propagate a fiddle leaf fig to multiply your collection of this favourite houseplant
By Holly Reaney
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Why is my fiddle leaf fig drooping? Plant experts share 6 possible causes, plus the easy fixes to ensure your plant thrives
Expert answer the question, and advise and then learn how to fix it
By Holly Reaney
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Fireplace ideas – 43 ways to turn your mantel and hearth into a showstopping feature
From fresh paint to the right styling, these are the best ways to give your fireplace a new lease of life
By Holly Reaney
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Channelling vintage charm, this understated kitchen allows the original Victorian features to shine
A redesign created an organised, vintage-inspired peaceful space
By Holly Reaney
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How to care for Fiddle Leaf Fig to make the most of this swoon-worthy statement plant
It brings a tropical flair to any interior scheme
By Holly Reaney
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How to felt a shed roof - a step-by-step guide to keep it safe from rot and damp
If you're shed has taken a battering this winter, here's how to felt a shed roof it ready for the New Year
By Holly Reaney
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How to care for a blue star fern – recreating its natural environment will make them easy to look after
They may be known for being tricky, but a few simple guidelines will change everything
By Holly Reaney
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Decorating the outside of your house with Christmas lights? These are the 8 things experts want you to know before you start
Give your home a warm and welcoming feel by illuminating its exterior with twinkling lights, whatever the season
By Holly Reaney
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This artist's home is a masterclass in contemporary country design
This light-filled kitchen is bright and breezy, and yet filled with character and warmth
By Holly Reaney
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How to care for a mini Christmas tree - keep your tiny Christmas tree thriving this December and beyond
Learn how to care for a mini Christmas tree and transform this seasonal novelty into a statement feature to be reused year after year
By Holly Reaney
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How to plant anemone bulbs – expert advice to ensure an abundance of colour in spring
The expert guide to setting these vibrant blooms up for success
By Holly Reaney
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How to care for a Chinese money plant – it's all about position and watering, say the experts
This beautiful and easy-to-care-for houseplant will bring you good luck and prosperity
By Holly Reaney
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How to prune a pear tree for healthy growth and an abundant harvest
Follow these steps to prune a pear tree to perfection
By Holly Reaney
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8 common Christmas cactus problems – how to spot them and solve them before it's too late
Wondering what's wrong with your Christmas cactus? Take a look at our guide...
By Holly Reaney
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How often to water a Christmas cactus – the perfect schedule for winter, according to houseplant experts
Finding the right balance is the key to seasonal blooms
By Holly Reaney