TURN UP THE HEAT

Ahh the ’70s! Blonde brick and concrete as far as the eye could see. But you can transform a bland space such as this into a spot to chill out and soak up the winter sun or gather around the fire with friends to enjoy those brisk winter nights. Add a warming touch by painting the bricks black, then fill the space by building a bench seat and a coffee table finished using the Japanese wood-burning technique called shou sugi ban. A couple of comfy armchairs and potted plants complete the revamp.

PROJECT 1 BURNT WOOD COFFEE TABLE

Gather your supplies

• 2440 x 1220 x 18mm marine plywood