With rising house prices continuing to price Britons out of moving home, increasing numbers of Britons are turning to home improvement projects in order to get more out of their current properties.

The DIY and garden retailer B&Q has reported a recent growth in interest in home improvement amongst homeowners, with many people now keen to develop their property in a manner that best reflects their personality and style.

"Lifestyles are changing and we are making more intensive use of our homes due to high house prices and the rising cost of moving," said as spokesman for the retail chain.

"Changing lifestyles require more multi-functional rooms as more of us work from home and entertain from home more often."

In addition, the longer and warmer summers are leading Britons to increasingly invest in turning their gardens into additional living space, including installing outdoor dining facilities and playrooms.

However, homeowners looking to undertake work on their properties are advised to check that their home insurance policy covers against the possibility of a project going wrong.