As we head into the new year and try our best to refresh our lives with projects and resolutions, I thought of some of the most transformative garden makeovers that I have written about before. The kind that go from really nothing to really something. I'm participating in the January Cure (and blogging about it!), and this garden and the way it suddenly got all organized reminds me of my experiences so far. More

After hearing how hospitals in Sweden were using a unique cloth to clean with water rather than traditional chemical cleaners, UK designer Steve Pearson was inspired to create a version of his own. In 1995 he partnered with engineer John Park and a group of Korean scientists to create a line of microfiber cleaning cloths called e–cloth.

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Thanks to the internet, the world seems to be getting smaller and smaller. While a store in the UK or Australia may have felt like it was a world away, now it's just a click away. And the best part, of course, is that click is often on a "buy it" button. Oh the joys of the modern age!

• InSpitalfields: London's Eclectic Home Store
• Little Nest Modern Kids Furniture
• Elevenfiftyfour: From Modern Classics to Edgy Basics in Old Ottawa South
• Labour and Wait: Simple, Honest Design
• Merci: Parisian Concept Store
• Zeitlos Berlin: Collector Quality Bauhaus, Deco, Streamline & Mid-Century
• Not on the High Street: Where Everything Has a Story
• Famille Summerbelle: Playful Accessories for Modern Kids of All Ages
• Store Without a Home: Temporary Gallery
• Rowen & Wren: Organic Modern Housewares from the UK More

Folklore is the place to shop this Christmas if you are looking for unique gifts that are crafted with quality and care. Each piece in Folklore is hand-selected for its mindful design and durability. More

While pregnant with her first child, Julie Marabelle found herself designing art and accessories for her new baby's room. Since that time she and her husband, Simon Summerscales, launched their own company, Famille Summerbelle, selling Julie's adorable designs on a line of accessories intended for children but smart enough for adults. More

Big news today from the palace: Prince William and Kate Middleton are expecting their first child. Along with our hearty congratulations for the royal couple, here are a few selections for nursery decor ideas and inspirations along with some practical tips and advice... More

Name: Claire & Nick Walton
Location: Hampshire, England
Size: 1,300 square feet
Years lived in: 5 years; Owned

Claire & Nick Walton live in a traditional 17th century thatched cottage with their two young daughters Celeste and Penelope. Set in the village of East Meon in Hampshire, England, their home is filled with characterful details such as rustic beams, traditional leaded lights and solid oak floorboards. The couple have also added a contemporary kitchen extension at the back of the house, creating a light-filled space perfect for busy family life.

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Name: Isabel Cooke & Claire Walsh
Location: Hackney, London
Size: 2 bedroom apartment
Years lived in: 2 years; Owned

Isabel and Claire's 1950's ex-local authority apartment has been given a new lease of life with their eclectic and global finds, family heirlooms and a huge dose of enthusiasm. Claire, a trends analyst, travels the world searching for great design, while Bel has a great eye for local vintage finds.

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We're learning about UK-based Not on the High Street just in time for holiday shopping. Started by Holly Tucker and Sophie Cornish, this e-tailer stocks thousands of unique items from independent designers not found elsewhere. More

Vanessa Barneby is a former Vogue Living Editor. Alice Gates is a painter with roots in fashion illustration. Together they are Barneby Gates, producing new takes on traditional wallpaper in their native England. More