
Anna K. Cottrell
Anna is a professional writer and researcher with many years of experience. She specializes in writing about home improvement, real estate, travel, and urban culture. Her work has appeared in Atlas Obscura, BiggerPockets, Parade Home & Garden, and many other publications. Anna has a PhD in English and is the author of a published book, London Writing of the 1930s. She taught English Literature for several years before joining Future as a Content Editor across its homes titles, including Homes & Gardens. Currently, Anna is a freelance writer and editor. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening and being in nature.
Latest articles by Anna K. Cottrell
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5 common rhubarb mistakes – and how to avoid them
Avoid these rhubarb growing pitfalls to ensure healthy plants and strong yields
By Holly Crossley Published
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How to fix chipped paint on interior walls – advice from expert painters
We've asked professional painters how to fix chipped paint on walls. Here's the expert advice for DIY-solving the problem.
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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7 raised bed gardening mistakes – for a bumper flower, fruit and vegetable harvest
Here’s what the experts avoid in their raised beds – to promote strong plants and an abundant vegetable crop
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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Cleaners reveal how to dust open shelves without damaging your belongings
Here's how to dust open shelves without damaging your belongings, according to professional cleaners.
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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This is how to cool down a bedroom fast, even if you don't have an air conditioner
Struggling to sleep in a hot bedroom with no AC Unit? Here's how to cool down a bedroom fast, according to experts
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Experts reveal 10 things you should never buy at an estate sale
Spend wisely: these are the things you should never buy at an estate sale, according to experts
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Experts share their secrets for separating trash from treasure at an estate sale
From timing your visit to picking through the items, these are expert estate sale tips for separating trash from treasure
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Experts share the best ways to organize deep drawers to maximize space
Here are the best ways to organize deep drawers in different rooms in your home
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Is hard water ruining your plumbing? Here's how to fix it once and for all
Professional plumbers give their advice on how to fix hard water in your home
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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6 ways to future-proof your home against extreme weather – your home (and wallet) will thank you
Here's how to future-proof your home against extreme weather, according to experts.
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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How to find the perfect architect for your next home renovation project
Renovating your home? Here's how to find the right architect for your home renovation
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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We asked designers how to aesthetically organize a closet – this is what they suggest
We asked interior designers how to aesthetically organize a closet to be both functional and beautiful to look at
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Are these design and layout mistakes making your home feel depressing?
Find out if your interior design choices are making your home look sad; plus, interior designers give advice on what to do instead.
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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9 ways to future-proof your home for later life
Want to future-proof your home for later life? Here's how to do it, according to home improvement experts.
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Is your home as healthy as it could be – experts recommend these five upgrades to improve wellbeing
Enhance your physical and mental health with these expert-recommended healthy home upgrades.
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Why are my orchid flowers falling off? These houseplant experts have the answers
What's happening to your orchid flowers and how to fix the problem
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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5 renovation projects that will add value to your home in 2024
The renovations projects that will add value to your home in 2024, and a couple that definitely won't.
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Buying or selling a home in winter: here's what you should know
Everything you should know about buying or selling a home in winter, according to real estate experts.
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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How to stop your Christmas tree from shedding needles
Expert advice to help your Christmas tree stay fresher for longer, with its needles intact
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Does hairspray stop pine needles from dropping?
Does hairspray stop pine needles from dropping? Find out if this DIY method for preserving your Christmas tree actually works
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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How to prevent cats from destroying your Christmas tree
Is your feline tearing your beautifully decorated tree apart? Here's what you can do to prevent cats from destroying your Christmas tree
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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Do I need underfloor heating in the bathroom?
Wondering if you should install underfloor heating in your bathroom? Weigh this expert advice before making your decision
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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5 things people with nice-smelling den rooms always do
Wondering how to make your den smell good? Try these top tips for keeping your den fresh and fragrant from interior designers
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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How to organize your morning routine, according to the pros
Declutter, streamline and de-stress! Learn how to organize your morning routine with these easy professional tips
By Anna K. Cottrell Published