5 Mini makeovers to improve your home

Believe it or not, you don’t have to go through a lot of noise, dust and endless planning applications to give your house a makeover. We look at 5 easy steps that can change your living space.

  • Perfect storage solutions

    No matter how much we de-clutter, we always seem to run out of space. The temptation is to rent a storage unit or worse, plan a whole basement refurbishment … but why not look at unused spaces around the house that could be fitted with cupboards and shelves instead. A storage seat beneath a bay window; a cupboard/shelving unit to fit snugly within the awkward angles of your loft or book shelves at the top of the stairs. Alternatively if your mattress is on its last legs … buy a storage bed!

  • Playing with colours

    In a previous newsletter we discussed how daunting it is selecting the right colour scheme for your home. Even choosing a plain white can be difficult now that there are so many different shades and variations to choose from. Why not add colour to just one wall instead? Paint the wall behind your bed to make a minimalist headboard, or as a splashback in your kitchen. You will need to allow 2-7 days for it to dry and air – and if you change your mind about it later, it will be just as quick and easy to repaint it again!

  • That front garden…

    The first impression you get of any home is its front garden. It is often a small and tricky space but simple changes can make all the difference to a private home or rental property. Painting the front door, fixing broken path tiles, adding a few plants or building a shed for your bins will usually do the trick and take very little time. (Note – in a conservation area, you may need planning permission.)

  • The power of mirrors

    Hanging mirrors on your walls will instantly create a sense of space, whether you invest in one large antique frame or hang several smaller ones together. They can even be used in your garden or on your balcony to give the illusion of endless outdoor greenery.

  • Fix the floor

    The summer holiday is a great time to refresh your floors. Since household ‘traffic’ and access is the main issue when refurbishing floors, try to sort these out while the family is away. Wooden floors can generally be sanded down and re-varnished, or you could try painting the boards to add an alternative splash of colour. Similarly cleaning or replacing a tired carpet will only take 2-3 days and will immediately lift a tired room.