Better Homes & Gardens: May 5

This week on Better Homes & Gardens, Joh Griggs is on the Central Coast and Adam has a DIY timber shelving.

Johanna – Eco Village
On the Central Coast of NSW lies a community of people who are truly living their values. Every home in this planned village is designed to be energy efficient, with an average rating of six-stars. During a tour of the village, Joh sees three very different homes, including one that looks like it came straight from the pages of a fantasy novel. The village was founded to gather friends and like-minded people to form a supportive, environmentally conscious community that is a green example for Australia. You might just get some tips to save on energy bills and also help save the environment.

Adam – Pull-Apart Shelves
When it comes to working with timber, we know Adam is quite partial to gluing and screwing. But tonight, he’s going to build a shelving unit using the ancient technique of mortise and tenon joints. Not only does it look great, but it highlights the handcrafted nature of the unit and because there are no fixings, it can easily be pulled apart and packed down if you need to move it. Have a go this weekend and really impress your friends and family with your DIY skills next time they come to visit.

Karen – Salted Macadamia And Almond Caramels
If you have a sweet tooth but want to mix up your cravings from the usual chocolate treats, then Karen’s caramel slice will have you going nutty. It’s a pretty easy recipe to follow, but you will need a thermometer to get caramel to just the right temperature. Throw in some macadamias, almonds and salt to sprinkle on top and you have the most delicious, sweet treat.

Fast Ed – Lamb & Fennel Stew With Easy Yoghurt-Herb Dumplings
Pork and fennel are a great combination, but Ed’s here to tell you lamb and fennel is even better. Combine a beautiful lamb shoulder with Autumnal flavours like onions, garlic and of course the fennel. Then, with just a few simple steps, Ed will teach you how to make dumplings that will stew in the pot and absorb all the flavour. It’s a great dish for travelling as it can all be made in one pot, but the best part is there’s barely any washing up!

Fast Ed – Chicken Scarpariello With Pistachios & Capers
Scarpariello isn’t a dish that’s widely known in Australia, which is a shame. While it’s Italian in nature, it’s not actually from Italy. It was actually born from the immigrant Italian community in New York City. But with loads of onion and garlic, some meat and capsicums it definitely feels Italian. Ed’s combining this pistachio crumble for what truly is a one-pot wonder the whole family will love.

Graham – Small Space Big Impact (Willoughby Garden Walkaround)
Graham has certainly visited some big, beautiful and expansive gardens throughout the years, but tonight he’s a small garden that’s caught his attention. This little gem might be small on space but it’s big on wow factor, with some tricks of the trade and even a productive veggie patch. It just goes to show, you can have a designer garden, no matter the size of your block.

Charlie – Dense Your Hedge
Hedges are about creating a private space in your garden, but if they’re not thick and lush then they’re not doing their job. Charlie gives you all the tips, so your hedge grows denser and gives you the privacy you’re looking for.

Charlie – Front Yard Succulent Display
The entry to your home shouldn’t be overlooked when it comes to gardening. Charlie shows you a home that’s done a great job with just a few different succulents. With a variety of textures and even a pop of colour, this an entrance that will really make a great impression.

Juliet – Cool Clay Crafts For Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is coming up, which means that it is time to think about some DIY Mother’s Day gifts. Juliet shows you a few DIY ideas that can all be made with air dry clay. You can use just about anything to decorate your cool clay crafts, but you if you want to stay on trend, pick out some leaves from the garden the garden for the authentic, rustic look. Kids love doing special things for Mum and these projects are so easy that they can do most of them all by themselves.

Dr Harry – Catching Up With Chris Humfrey
Last time Dr Harry caught up Zoologist Chris Humfrey it had to be via video call, so it’s a real pleasure to be able to say g’day in person finally. Chris introduces Dr Harry to a few of his newest additions, Boris the Echidna and FJ the Koala who may well be the cutest and cuddliest animals. Although the tawny frogmouths and barn owls might have something to say about that. But if insects, bugs and arachnids are more your style, then Chris also has some friends on the small side who really put the crawly in creepy crawly.

7pm Friday on Seven / 7TWO