How to Ace IELTS Speaking: Describing a Recent Home Improvement

Are you preparing for the IELTS Speaking test and looking for effective strategies to tackle the topic “Describe A Recent Improvement In Your Living Space”? This comprehensive guide will provide you with valuable insights, sample answers, and expert tips to help you excel in your IELTS Speaking exam.

Understanding the Topic

The topic “Describe a recent improvement in your living space” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss personal experiences, describe changes, and express opinions about home improvements. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.

IELTS Speaking Test

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about your home and living space. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Question: Do you like your current living space?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I do like my current living space. It’s comfortable and has everything I need. I’ve been living here for about two years now, and I’ve made some small changes to make it feel more like home.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely! I’m quite fond of my current living space. It’s not only comfortable but also tailored to my preferences. Over the past couple of years, I’ve gradually customized it to suit my lifestyle, making it a perfect reflection of my personality and needs.”

Question: Have you made any changes to your living space recently?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I have. Last month, I painted my bedroom walls a light blue color. It’s made the room feel more relaxing and spacious. I also added some new shelves to organize my books better.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Indeed, I’ve undertaken several modifications recently. The most significant change was repainting my bedroom in a soothing shade of azure, which has dramatically transformed the ambiance, making it more tranquil and visually expansive. Additionally, I’ve installed custom-built shelving to efficiently house my burgeoning book collection, which has substantially improved the room’s functionality and aesthetics.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to the theme:

Describe a recent improvement in your living space

You should say:

• What the improvement was
• When you made this improvement
• Why you decided to make this improvement
• And explain how you feel about this improvement now

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I’d like to talk about a recent improvement I made to my living room. About three months ago, I decided to install new lighting fixtures.

The main reason for this change was that the old lighting was quite dim and made the room feel gloomy, especially in the evenings. I wanted to create a brighter and more welcoming atmosphere.

I chose to install a combination of ceiling lights and floor lamps. The ceiling lights provide overall illumination, while the floor lamps add a cozy ambiance. I also opted for LED bulbs to save energy.

Now, I feel really happy with this improvement. The room looks much more inviting, and it’s easier to read or work in the evenings. My friends have also commented on how much nicer the space looks. Overall, it’s made a big difference to how I use and enjoy my living room.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m delighted to share with you a recent enhancement I made to my living space, specifically my living room. Approximately three months ago, I embarked on a lighting renovation project that has dramatically transformed the ambiance of the room.

The primary motivation behind this improvement was the inadequate illumination provided by the existing fixtures. The dim lighting created a somewhat somber atmosphere, particularly during the evening hours, which was not conducive to relaxation or productivity.

After careful consideration, I opted for a multi-layered lighting approach. I installed a series of recessed LED ceiling lights to provide uniform, overall illumination. To complement this, I strategically placed several artisanal floor lamps around the room. These not only serve as additional light sources but also as decorative elements, adding depth and character to the space.

In terms of technology and efficiency, I chose smart LED bulbs that can be controlled via a mobile app. This allows me to adjust the brightness and color temperature of the lights to suit different moods and activities.

Reflecting on this improvement, I’m thoroughly satisfied with the outcome. The living room has been utterly transformed into a more inviting and versatile space. The enhanced illumination has made it significantly more comfortable for various activities, from reading to entertaining guests. Moreover, the ability to create different lighting scenarios has added a new dimension to how I experience and use the room.

My friends and family have been effusive in their praise, often commenting on the warm and welcoming atmosphere the new lighting creates. Personally, I find that this improvement has not only elevated the aesthetic appeal of my living room but has also positively impacted my mood and productivity when I’m at home.”

Follow-up Questions

1. How long did it take to complete this improvement?
2. Did you do the work yourself or hire professionals?
3. What other improvements would you like to make in your living space?

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. “The entire process, from initial planning to final implementation, took approximately two weeks. This included researching different lighting options, consulting with an interior designer, purchasing the fixtures, and finally installing them. The actual installation was completed over a weekend, but I spent considerable time fine-tuning the positioning and settings of the lights to achieve the optimal effect.”

2. “While I’m generally inclined towards DIY projects, for this particular improvement, I opted to enlist professional assistance. I hired a certified electrician to handle the intricacies of the wiring and installation, especially for the recessed ceiling lights. This ensured compliance with safety standards and guaranteed a polished finish. However, I personally took charge of the selection and placement of the floor lamps, as well as the configuration of the smart lighting system.”

3. “Looking ahead, I’m contemplating several other enhancements to further optimize my living space. One project I’m particularly excited about is creating a vertical garden on one of the living room walls. This would not only add a refreshing natural element to the room but also improve air quality. Additionally, I’m considering upgrading my home office with ergonomic furniture and better storage solutions to enhance productivity and organization. In the long term, I’m also exploring the possibility of installing solar panels to make my home more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Question: How do you think home improvements affect people’s quality of life?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I believe home improvements can have a big impact on people’s quality of life. When you make your living space more comfortable or functional, it can reduce stress and make daily tasks easier. For example, a well-organized kitchen can make cooking more enjoyable, while a cozy bedroom can improve sleep quality. These changes can lead to better overall well-being.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Home improvements can profoundly influence an individual’s quality of life in multiple dimensions. Firstly, enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of one’s living space can significantly reduce stress levels and promote mental well-being. A well-designed environment that aligns with personal preferences can serve as a sanctuary from the pressures of the outside world.

Moreover, practical improvements like ergonomic furniture or efficient storage solutions can alleviate physical strain and streamline daily routines, leading to increased productivity and more leisure time. For instance, a thoughtfully renovated home office can boost work performance, while an upgraded kitchen might inspire healthier eating habits.

Additionally, home improvements often foster a sense of pride and accomplishment, which can positively impact self-esteem and overall life satisfaction. The process of planning and executing improvements can also stimulate creativity and problem-solving skills.

Lastly, certain improvements, such as energy-efficient upgrades, can lead to long-term cost savings and a reduced environmental footprint, contributing to both financial security and a sense of social responsibility. Thus, home improvements can holistically enhance various aspects of an individual’s life, from physical comfort to emotional well-being and personal growth.”

Question: Do you think people are spending too much money on home improvements these days?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“It’s hard to say if people are spending too much on home improvements. I think it depends on individual circumstances. Some people might spend a lot because they want to increase the value of their property, while others might do it for personal comfort. As long as they can afford it and it makes them happy, I don’t think it’s necessarily a problem.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The question of whether people are overspending on home improvements is multifaceted and highly subjective. While there’s undoubtedly a trend towards increased investment in home renovations, particularly in light of recent global events that have amplified the importance of comfortable living spaces, I believe it’s overly simplistic to label this as excessive spending across the board.

On one hand, the surge in home improvement expenditure can be seen as a rational response to changing lifestyle needs. With more people working remotely and spending increased time at home, investing in a functional and pleasant living environment can be viewed as a justifiable allocation of resources. Moreover, well-planned improvements can enhance property values, potentially offering long-term financial benefits.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that there’s a fine line between necessary upgrades and extravagant, unnecessary renovations. In some cases, societal pressure or unrealistic expectations fueled by social media and home improvement shows might lead individuals to overspend beyond their means.

Ultimately, I believe the appropriateness of home improvement spending should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as financial stability, long-term goals, and personal satisfaction. It’s essential for individuals to strike a balance between improving their living conditions and maintaining financial prudence. Thoughtful planning and prioritizing improvements that offer the best value in terms of comfort, functionality, and potential return on investment can help ensure that spending on home improvements remains judicious and beneficial.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Renovation (noun) /ˌrenəˈveɪʃn/ – the process of repairing and improving a building
   Example: “The renovation of our kitchen took longer than expected but was worth the wait.”

2. Enhance (verb) /ɪnˈhɑːns/ – to improve the quality, value, or attractiveness of something
   Example: “The new lighting fixtures greatly enhanced the ambiance of the room.”

3. Functionality (noun) /ˌfʌŋkʃəˈnæləti/ – the quality of being suited to serve a purpose well
   Example: “We prioritized functionality when redesigning our home office space.”

4. Aesthetic (adjective) /esˈθetɪk/ – concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty
   Example: “The minimalist design of the furniture adds to the room’s aesthetic appeal.”

5. Ergonomic (adjective) /ˌɜːrɡəˈnɑːmɪk/ – designed for efficiency and comfort in the working environment
   Example: “Investing in ergonomic furniture has significantly improved my posture and comfort while working.”

6. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
   Example: “We chose sustainable materials for our home improvement project to reduce our environmental impact.”

Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner

1. Practice regularly: Dedicate time each day to speaking English, focusing on describing your surroundings and recent changes.

2. Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a variety of words and phrases related to home improvements and living spaces.

3. Structure your answers: Use linking words and phrases to organize your thoughts coherently.

4. Provide specific examples: When describing improvements, give concrete details to make your answers more engaging and authentic.

5. Express opinions confidently: In Part 3, don’t hesitate to share your views on broader topics related to home improvements and lifestyle changes.

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the topic of recent improvements in your living space in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to speak fluently, use a range of vocabulary, and express your ideas clearly and confidently.

For more tips on acing your IELTS Speaking test, check out our guide on how to describe a time you learned something new in IELTS Speaking. You might also find it helpful to read about describing a new development in your city, which can provide additional context for discussing improvements and changes in living environments.