Creative mum paints dotty 101 Dalmatians style kids bedroom – for only £2!

A 12-year-old girl named Evie, with the help of her mother Stacey Nield, 36, from Accrington, successfully transformed her bedroom into a chic and grown-up space for under £200 during the COVID-19 lockdown. The renovation project was initiated after the family's holiday plans were canceled, providing a focused activity for mother and daughter. Evie's previous bedroom, which was originally the dining room, had been left undecorated for two years as she covered the walls with posters. The transformation embraced a rose gold, pink, and grey color scheme, reflecting current trends. The renovation process began with wallpapering, where Evie chose a pink, grey, and rose gold wallpaper costing £13 per roll from Very. This was complemented by Dulux's 'Chic Shadow' paint, which cost £15 a tin and significantly brightened the room. Evie actively participated in the labor, helping to strip old wallpaper and paint the walls, making it a collaborative and bonding experience for her and her mother. Stacey, an assistant manager in a children's nursery, noted Evie's enthusiasm for selecting the decorative elements. The cost-effectiveness of the makeover was largely due to sourcing accessories from budget-friendly retailers such as B&M;, Home Bargains, and eBay. Key purchases included a £10 throw and a £15 hexagonal mirror from B&M;, a £2.99 bed tray from Home Bargains, and photo frames ranging from 99p to £2.99 from B&M; and Asda. The bed itself was from Bensons, but a significant saving was made by purchasing the headboard separately for only £30 on eBay. Evie also incorporated LED lights, an idea of her own, which were also bought from eBay, adding a modern touch to the room despite her mother's initial reservations about them. Evie's creative choices and resourcefulness allowed for the creation of stylish features, including a gallery wall, a bed tray, and coordinated wallpaper, throws, and cushions, all contributing to the sophisticated aesthetic. The project provided a positive outlet and a sense of accomplishment during the lockdown period, highlighting the benefits of DIY and smart shopping. Both Stacey and Evie expressed satisfaction with the final result, emphasizing the value of shopping around, utilizing existing items, and considering practical storage solutions, such as the divan bed with four drawers used to minimize clutter. Tom Church, co-founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, commended Evie for her initiative and ability to achieve a stunning room within a tight budget. #BedroomMakeover #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetDecor #TeenBedroom #InteriorDesign #AffordableLiving #HomeRenovation #GalleryWall #LEDLights

As the seasons transition from summer to colder months, many seek to transform their bedrooms into cozy and visually appealing retreats. This guide offers inspiration for achieving a stunning bedroom aesthetic without a significant financial outlay, focusing on products from Big W to create a mid-century modern look. The total cost for the featured bedding elements is $176, excluding surrounding homewares, but individual components can be incorporated into existing setups to refresh the space. The centerpiece of this bedroom design is the $22 Elsie faux mohair throw. Cara Gibson, a senior home designer at Big W, highlights its rich color, which introduces warmth and contrast, along with its timeless check pattern and chunky fringe, which seamlessly blend bedding elements to enhance the overall cozy atmosphere. To fully replicate the suggested look, the process begins with foundational layers. A charcoal-colored flannelette fitted sheet and flat sheet form the base. These are then complemented by a contrasting dark purple blanket, followed by a quilt in another contrasting color. The strategic folding of the quilt and flat sheet, with the top quarter folded back towards the bed's base, creates a plush, oversized appearance often seen in stylish bedrooms. The Brilliant Basics cinched quilt cover set, priced at $35 for a queen size, is selected in white to allow the subsequent pillow and cushion arrangements to stand out. The finishing touch involves draping the Elsie faux mohair throw casually over the foot of the bed, adding a final layer of color, warmth, and textural contrast to achieve the retro aesthetic. For the pillows, the arrangement includes two in the charcoal flannelette and two in the cinched design, if the sets are purchased. These can be artfully arranged, either all four or two of each color, laid flat or propped against the bedhead or wall. Cushions in contrasting colors and patterns are then added, with an odd number, such as three, generally yielding the most aesthetically pleasing grouping. Specific suggestions include the Openook ruched velvet cushions in meta rose ($14) and dark denim ($20), topped with an Openook printed rectangular cushion ($10) for a playful retro accent. Gibson emphasizes that a crucial, yet often overlooked, detail for a luxurious and cloud-like feel is the quilt insert. Opting for the fluffiest insert available instantly adds volume and elevates the bed's overall appearance, making it as inviting as it looks. While the showcased design primarily uses white, meta rose, and dark denim, alternative color schemes are encouraged. For instance, swapping meta rose and dark denim cushions for sagebrush green and butter yellow can create a softer, more understated nostalgic feel, while still embracing bold geometric prints and playful textures. The article concludes with a list of the specific products used to create the retro bedding look, including their names and prices, to facilitate replication for those interested in adopting this styling approach. #BedroomStyling #HomeDecor #BudgetDecor #MidCenturyModern #BigW #InteriorDesign #TextileLayering #WinterBedroom #AffordableHomewares

Interior designer Naïka Andre was tasked with designing a bedroom for Garvey, an almost 3-year-old artist and the son of Nicole Taylor and Adrian Franks in Athens, Georgia. Garvey is known for his constant artistic creations, often using dry-erase boards, chalkboards, and occasional construction paper. Andre’s challenge was to create a space that not only displayed his art but also fostered his creative development, all while repurposing his former nursery furniture and decor. The design transformed a plain white room into a haven for a mini Picasso. Andre incorporated two existing mobiles from Garvey’s nursery into the new design. A knitted rocket mobile was hung flat against a narrow wall space near the door, while a modern mobile with abstract shapes was attached to the top of his play tent. Andre emphasizes that mobiles can serve as sculptural art installations beyond infancy, likening them to museum displays. This creative reuse of nursery decor demonstrates how items can evolve with a child’s development and maintain aesthetic value. A key element of the room’s foundation is the navy carpet, which has been with Garvey since his nursery days. This carpet is composed of individual tiles, offering practical benefits for a child’s room. The modular design allows for easy relocation between rooms or even homes, as the tiles can be pulled apart and reinstalled with fresh adhesive. More importantly, the individual tiles simplify cleaning; parents can remove and wash a single soiled square in the sink rather than needing to clean an entire rug. This feature addresses the common challenge of spills and messes in children’s spaces. Another transitional piece from the nursery is the swivel chair. Originally used to lull Garvey to sleep as an infant, it now functions as a comfortable spot for story time. The chair’s sturdy base is a crucial safety feature, preventing toe injuries that might occur with a traditional rocker. This careful selection of furniture ensures both functionality and safety as Garvey grows. To accommodate Garvey’s ever-changing gallery of artwork, Andre implemented a flexible display system. Two simple wires with clips allow Nicole and Adrian to easily swap out Garvey’s latest creations. The most innovative feature is the reimagined chalkboard wall: the closet doors. Homeowner Nicole Taylor commissioned Gus Darnell of Oneta Woodworks to create new bifold panels with chalkboard fronts, providing Garvey with an expansive, dedicated surface for drawing and doodling. Darnell also crafted a special pencil and brush stand for the dresser, ensuring Garvey’s art tools are organized and easily accessible, recognizing that an artist's time is valuable. This thoughtful design encourages continuous artistic expression and maintains an organized, inspiring environment for the young artist. #KidsRooms #ToddlerBedroom #ChalkboardWall #HomeDesign #CreativeSpace #ChildDevelopment #ModularCarpet #InteriorDesign #ArtisticExpression

The housing market in Summer 2025 presents a challenge for sellers, with significantly more properties available than active buyers. To address this, new research from Zillow suggests that strategic paint color choices can significantly impact a home's appeal and value. Zillow's behavioral science team conducted a survey involving over 4,200 recent and prospective home buyers across the country. Participants were shown various homes with interiors painted in one of ten popular colors. They then rated these homes based on visual appeal, likelihood of touring and purchasing, and the price they would be willing to pay. The findings indicated that two specific paint colors were particularly effective in boosting a home's perceived value: dark olive green and rich navy blue. According to Zillow's report, homes with an olive green kitchen could command an additional $1,597, while a navy blue bedroom could increase a home's value by an impressive $1,815. Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert, explained that these colors are viewed as contemporary, associating them with organic modernism—an aesthetic that emphasizes sustainable materials like wood and stone. This style is known to evoke feelings of serenity and tranquility, which buyers find highly desirable. Conversely, the study also identified colors that could negatively impact a home’s value. Homes featuring a daisy yellow kitchen or living room were found to potentially decrease in value by nearly $4,000 (specifically, $3,915 less for kitchens and $3,891 less for living rooms). Similarly, a fire hydrant red living room could reduce value by $1,820, and a red bedroom by $1,987. These findings suggest that while certain colors enhance appeal, others can deter buyers. Despite these general trends, Zillow advises sellers against making hasty painting decisions. The report stresses the importance of consulting with a local real estate agent. An agent can provide tailored advice on what specific colors and aesthetics are currently favored by buyers in a particular neighborhood, ensuring that any home improvement efforts are well-aligned with local market demands and can yield the best possible return on investment. #HomeValue #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #RealEstate #HomeSelling #ZillowResearch #HousingMarket #HomeDecor #ColorPsychology

Interior designer Sarah Dorsey opted for a unique and cost-effective approach to decorating her newborn son's nursery, choosing a subtle painted pattern over traditional wallpaper. Having recently painted her entire 1980 post-and-beam contemporary home in Washington, D.C., a crisp white to highlight its architectural features, she sought a nursery design that would complement this aesthetic without overwhelming it. The goal was to create an inviting, adaptable space for her son that would grow with him. Dorsey, a mother of two, conceptualized a loosely planned design utilizing a light palette of blues and tans, intended to harmonize with the room's geometric architecture. She deliberately avoided precise measurements, allowing for a faster and more organic, hand-painted appearance. This informal approach significantly reduced the project's completion time, taking less than 10 hours, executed primarily during her children's nap times. The total cost for this DIY project was notably under $500. The project involved four main steps, beginning with planning the design's placement on the walls. Instead of a structured grid, Dorsey chose an eyeballed pattern, alternating horizontal and vertical groupings of three 10-inch lines. This method ensured a natural, less rigid final look. The second step focused on creating stencils using painter's tape. Dorsey detailed a process for cutting precise 10-inch strips of Frog Tape, along with shorter 5-inch and 2-inch strips for wall edges, to create the illusion of the pattern extending beyond the wall. The third step involved preparing the area and applying the tape to the walls. Dorsey placed the tape strips in groups of three, alternating their orientation. She emphasized using an 8-inch handheld level to ensure the strips were straight before fully securing them. The flexibility of painter's tape allowed for easy adjustments until the overall composition was satisfactory. The final step was the painting process. After laying down a drop cloth, Dorsey prepared her paint and brush. She advised dipping only the tips of the bristles in paint, or thinning thick paint with water, to achieve a smooth application without drips. The technique involved running the brush along the edge of the tape, with half the bristles on the tape and half on the wall, dragging the heel of the hand for steady strokes. This method created a crisp line on the inner edge of the design while leaving a hand-painted texture on the outside. Once all tape outlines were traced and the paint dried, the tape was removed, revealing the new patterned walls. This DIY approach provided an affordable and personalized solution for creating an engaging nursery environment that can adapt as the child grows, without the permanence or expense of wallpaper. The project demonstrates how simple materials and a creative vision can transform a space, making it a bright and happy room that complements the existing architectural elements of a home. #NurseryDesign #DIYHomeDecor #PaintersTapeProjects #KidsRooms #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor #HandPaintedWalls #HomeRenovation

The article details the creative process behind designing a "quirky without being babyish" nursery for a 19-month-old boy named Francis. His mother, Kitty Patterson, opted for painted green stripes on the walls as a budget-friendly and less permanent alternative to designer wallpaper. Instead of contrasting with plain white, the stripes use two complementary shades of green from Edward Bulmer: Verdigris and a pale blue-green called Duck Egg. This color choice was inspired by Instagram and a magazine featuring similar green tones in a kitchen. Patterson, residing in Brighton, England, determined the stripe dimensions herself but enlisted a decorator friend to execute the painting. Initially, she worried the result looked like a football uniform, but she found that adding wood toys, books, and textiles like window shades and wall hangings successfully softened the graphic lines. The nursery, typical of many older homes, has a small, boxy shape, presenting a challenge for storage. To address storage needs, Patterson repurposed an Edwardian chest of drawers for one alcove, decorating it with decoupage scenes from Noah’s Ark, which her son Francis enjoys pointing out. In the opposite corner, a changing table from a charity shop was revitalized with a fresh coat of paint and updated handles. Existing wall shelves, along with the door, radiator, and woodwork, were also painted to integrate them into the room's color scheme. Looking ahead, Patterson plans to replace the inherited crimson carpet with a thick beige one, prioritizing comfort and safety for a baby’s room where much time is spent on the floor. She reflects on the timing of the decoration, noting that a delay until Francis was almost one year old allowed for a more mature and enduring design rather than a potentially overly cutesy theme she might have chosen earlier. The current design aims for longevity, with the hope that Francis will appreciate it more as he grows older. #NurseryDesign #KidsRooms #DIYDecor #PaintedStripes #BudgetDecorating #HomeRenovation #ColorPalette #SustainableDesign #StorageSolutions

This article details a budget-friendly hallway and staircase transformation undertaken by homeowner Hannah Bishop in Edinburgh, showcasing how a significant impact can be achieved with minimal financial outlay. Hannah, known on Instagram as @weeleithcolony, sought to infuse her home with personality and vibrant colors, inspired by locations like Brighton's beach huts and Leith's street art, while adhering to a strict budget. The entire renovation, focusing primarily on paint and self-taught DIY skills, cost just £87. The project commenced with meticulous preparation, a crucial step Hannah emphasizes. She spent £77 on various paint colors and £10 on filler, consciously avoiding more expensive professional services like replastering. The initial phase involved stripping off old mint woodchip wallpaper, followed by the diligent application of filler to smooth out imperfections on the walls. Subsequently, the old carpet was removed, and any holes in the wooden surfaces were mended with wood filler. A comprehensive sanding process was then carried out on all wooden elements, including the handrail, highlighting the importance of thorough preparation for a smooth painted finish. A key aspect of Hannah's approach was to utilize existing structures, leveraging paint as the primary transformative agent rather than introducing new decorative elements. The only new addition was a self-made punch needle mirror, crafted from an affordable Amazon mirror and leftover yarn, demonstrating a creative and cost-effective decorative solution. Hannah's design philosophy encourages experimentation with unusual color combinations, such as mint and lilac or pink and yellow, to create unique and lively spaces. She advocates for a 'trial and error' mentality, urging homeowners to overcome the fear of making mistakes and to explore different possibilities to discover beautiful outcomes. The article includes a series of 'before,' 'during,' and 'after' photographs, visually illustrating the dramatic transformation of the hallway and staircase from its original state to a bright, pastel-colored space. These images serve as concrete examples of how a limited budget, combined with creativity and DIY effort, can yield impressive home makeover results. The transformation underscores the potential for homeowners to personalize their living environments without extensive financial investment, focusing on preparation, strategic use of paint, and a willingness to experiment with color and design. #HomeRenovation #BudgetDIY #StaircaseMakeover #PastelDecor #HallwayDesign #InteriorTransformation #AffordableHomeDecor #DIYHomeImprovement

A mother recently showcased an innovative and budget-friendly approach to home decoration by creating a striking feature wall in her bedroom using wallpaper samples. This project, which she shared on the Facebook group 'Extreme DIY & Life Hacks,' demonstrates how to achieve a stylish interior design trend without incurring significant costs. The inspiration for this creative endeavor came from an online article about utilizing free wallpaper samples for interior design. The woman, alongside her mother, successfully completed the project in a single day, highlighting its accessibility and efficiency. The process involved selecting a variety of grey, purple, and light blue wallpaper samples, primarily sourced from B&M and The Range. These colors were chosen to complement the existing turquoise walls of the bedroom, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing palette. The mother detailed that the initial step involved painting the wall underneath the designated feature area. Following this, hexagon-shaped shelves were employed as templates to meticulously cut the wallpaper samples into the desired hexagonal forms. These cutouts were then adhered to the wall using glue. The project was divided into two main phases. The first phase focused on arranging and attaching the full hexagonal wallpaper pieces, which took approximately two and a half hours to complete. After a short break, the second phase involved filling in the remaining spaces around the edges of the feature wall with half-hexagonal cutouts, taking another two hours. The total time invested in creating this visually impactful wall was approximately four and a half hours, underscoring the rapid transformation achievable with this method. Upon sharing her accomplishment, the mother received widespread positive feedback from other members of the online community. Commenters expressed admiration for the design, particularly appreciating the careful cutting of specific patterns, such as roses, to maintain their integrity within the hexagonal shapes. The project was lauded for its uniqueness and the gorgeous selection of wallpapers used. This DIY approach not only resulted in an impressive decorative element but also proved to be a significantly more economical alternative to traditional feature wall installations, which can often be expensive. This method exemplifies a growing trend in home decor where individuals leverage readily available and inexpensive materials to personalize their living spaces. The success of this project also highlights the potential for creative collaboration, as the mother and daughter worked together to achieve the desired outcome. The overall sentiment from the online community further validates the appeal and effectiveness of such DIY home improvement solutions, especially when executed with creativity and attention to detail. This particular project's success has inspired others, including the mum's own daughter, to consider similar transformations for their rooms, demonstrating its inspirational value. #DIYHomeDecor #FeatureWall #WallpaperSamples #BudgetDecor #BedroomDesign #HomeHacks #InteriorDesign #CreativeDecor

This article highlights the collaboration between actress and dancer Jenna Dewan and Crate & Kids to create a modern and chic tween girl bedroom. The design emphasizes a mature aesthetic that can grow with a child's evolving tastes, moving away from more traditional, vibrant tween room styles of the past. The article suggests that contemporary tween girls prefer muted tones, clean lines, and a blend of modern-college-dorm and chic-boho influences. Jenna Dewan's daughter's bedroom makeover is presented as a prime example of this trend. The design incorporates intentional pieces that are both stylish and functional, ensuring longevity as the child matures. The editorial team of The Everymom curated a selection of products featured in Dewan's design, making them accessible to readers. The article encourages readers to explore these pieces, noting that some items might appeal to adults as well, such as the raffia table lamp and wall sconces. The featured products are categorized and linked for easy shopping, showcasing specific items from the Crate & Kids collection used in the makeover. These include furniture like the Bodie Natural Wood 3-Drawer Kids Desk, Bodie Tall Natural Wood Kids Bookcase, Casey Kids Desk Chair, Wood Nightstand with Drawer, Upholstered Kids Bed, Bodie Wood 8-Drawer Kids Dresser, and a Velvet Corduroy Kids Lounge Chair. Storage solutions such as Metal Storage Bins and Clear Acrylic Floating Shelf Bookcases are also highlighted. Lighting options presented are the Greta Scalloped Raffia Table Lamp, Greta Scalloped Raffia Floor Lamp, and Bea White Ceramic Wall Sconce. Bedding and decor items include a Waffle Weave Duvet Cover and Pillow Sham, Leopard Organic Cotton Percale Sheet Set, Zio Kids Pouf, Harriet Round Velvet Throw Pillow, Harriet Stripe Velvet Bolster Pillow, and a Supersoft Gauze Quilt. Decorative elements like an Acrylic Tabletop Picture Frame, Finn Wood Wall Mirror, Clear Acrylic Book Ledge, and various framed wall art prints such as "You Are the Sunflower," "Heart," "Good Vibes Only," "Feelings," "Peace Hand Heart," and "Bloom" complete the look. The article is authored by Gianna Aldana, Commerce Editorial Assistant, and Jessica Welsh, Commerce Editor, from The Everymom. They emphasize the editorial team's commitment to providing valuable content and product recommendations based on research and personal experience, ensuring a curated selection that meets high standards for both fashion and function for mothers and their families. The overall tone is aspirational and informative, aiming to inspire readers with ideas for updating tween bedrooms. #TweenGirlBedroom #RoomMakeover #CelebrityHome #JennaDewan #CrateAndKids #HomeDecor #KidsSpaces #InteriorDesign #ModernBoho

Victoria McIntyre, a 33-year-old neurological nurse and mother of two from Perthshire, embarked on a DIY project during lockdown to revitalize her kitchen. Motivated to brighten the space affordably, she created a brick-effect feature wall for merely £12, utilizing Frogtape and paint tester pots. The family had previously transformed three bathrooms, and for the kitchen, they aimed for a unique brick design rather than the more common geometric patterns often achieved with Frogtape. This choice was also influenced by their existing brick tile splashback, and a desire for an easily changeable and less expensive option than wallpaper. Initially, the kitchen's feature wall was a deep grey, necessitating several coats of white as a base. The application of Frogtape proved to be the most intricate and time-consuming part of the project. Despite the house being a new build, the walls were slightly uneven, meaning Victoria could not simply apply horizontal strips. Instead, each horizontal line had to be meticulously measured and leveled, a process crucial for avoiding a wavy appearance in the final brick pattern. The vertical lines were then added using a spare wall tile as a guide. This precise taping process alone took six hours. Once the intricate stencil was created with Frogtape, the actual painting was surprisingly quick, taking only about ten minutes. Victoria used a deep fluffy roller and drizzled grey paint into a tray, ensuring minimal paint absorption on the roller. She then firmly rolled it back and forth across the entire wall. For areas inaccessible to the roller, such as edges, a natural sea sponge was employed to fill the gaps. The objective was to apply as little paint as possible, aiming for a porous effect that would mimic the texture of natural brick. The cost of the entire transformation amounted to just £12, spent on two rolls of Frogtape and a small tester pot of deep grey paint, both sourced online from a local Crown Paint store during lockdown. The family already had white paint at home, further reducing expenses. The outcome was a lighter, brighter kitchen with a unique industrial flair. Victoria and her husband were initially apprehensive about the result, fearing a potential need to repaint the entire wall solid grey if the brick effect failed. However, they were delighted with the finished look, which not only brightened their kitchen but also created the illusion of a larger space. The project has received positive feedback from visitors, validating the effort and innovative approach. This demonstrates how budget-friendly materials and creative DIY techniques can achieve significant home transformations without incurring substantial costs. The success of this project also highlights the versatility of Frogtape for various design patterns beyond typical geometric styles, offering an accessible route to personalized home decor. #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #DIYProjects #ThriftyLiving #FeatureWall #BrickEffect #Frogtape #PaintTransformation #BudgetHomeImprovement

This article details a DIY home transformation project where a homeowner successfully created the look of a tiled hallway floor using paint for a minimal cost of £32. The project was inspired by homeowner Tracy Cloutman, who had to remove original tiles due to asbestos glue. Instead of replacing them with expensive new tiles, she opted for a painted solution to achieve a similar aesthetic on a concrete subfloor. The transformation began with the preparation of the concrete floor after the removal of the old tiles. Tracy sought a durable paint that would not chip or scratch, settling on Ronseal Garage Floor paint. The first step involved meticulously measuring and marking guidelines on the floor using Frog Tape to create a diamond trellis pattern, mimicking the appearance of traditional floor tiles. Ensuring the tape was firmly pressed down was crucial to prevent paint bleed. For the base color of the 'tiles,' Tracy used Ronseal Garage Floor Paint in Slate. The contrasting white lines, defining the tile pattern, were painted over the top using Rustoleum Universal Paint in White. The article highlights the practicality of the chosen paints, noting that while Ronseal Garage Floor paint takes four hours to dry completely, it was walkable within two hours for a hallway application, given the lower impact compared to car traffic in a garage. This cost-effective project incurred expenses of £19.99 for the Ronseal paint, £5.99 for one roll of Frog Tape, and £6.00 for the Rustoleum white paint, totaling £31.98. The entire transformation, including drying times and tape application/removal, was completed over a weekend. The article emphasizes that this DIY approach offers an affordable alternative to traditional tiling, allowing homeowners to achieve a stylish look without significant financial outlay or the need for professional tradespeople. It serves as an inspiring example of how a small budget and a willingness to undertake DIY tasks can lead to a significant and visually appealing home improvement. #HallwayTransformation #DIYHomeDecor #PaintedFloor #BudgetRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement #AffordableStyle #TileEffect

Naomi Wilson, a Mama Sparrow blogger, and her husband Paul, embarked on a week-long renovation of their children's shared bedroom in their England countryside cottage. This project was initiated when their 5-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son were away. The couple aimed to transform their once-dreary shared space into a bright, functional, and whimsical room, taking advantage of the children's absence to tackle the renovation. Their plans included a hardware store run, an IKEA trip, and a tight schedule to complete as much as possible before the children returned. The renovation faced time constraints, preventing a full replastering of the textured ceiling, a task that would have taken at least four days. Instead, they opted to paint the ceiling white to brighten the room. The couple focused on injecting light and charm into the space, incorporating elements such as dashes of yellow, cuddly animal motifs, and botanical wallpaper. The wallpaper selection was directly inspired by Beatrix Potter’s former home, which provided the inspiration for Mr. McGregor’s Garden, adding a unique and storybook-like quality to the room. Wilson noted that the wallpaper choice was particularly effective in brightening what was previously a dark room. A key feature of the renovation was the installation of a board-and-batten paneling system on one wall. This choice was both aesthetically pleasing, complementing the cottage's 1824 architecture, and highly practical. The easy-to-clean paneling was specifically chosen to prevent their son from drawing on or picking at the new wallpaper, a habit he had with the previous mural. The daughter actively participated in the design process by selecting a sunny yellow hue for the room, which Wilson approved, believing it would infuse the space with historic charm. Paul, an engineer, handled the installation, including a display ledge and ensuring the boards were tall enough to remain proportional with a full-size bed in the future. The room also features a cozy reading nook, centered around a pink chair that Wilson acquired for $40 from Facebook Marketplace. This area is adorned with portraits of animals by local artist Jan Jay Design, creating a woodland-themed environment that reflects the local wildlife, such as pheasants and rabbits frequently seen outside the cottage. Stuffed animals on the beds further enhance this natural theme, though the youngest child often substitutes his bear and rabbit for an airplane at bedtime. For storage, Wilson selected IKEA's extendable Minnen beds and provided each child with matching wardrobes. She transformed two old chests—one antique, the other a Facebook Marketplace find requiring restoration—by painting them in a uniform sage green, color-matched to an Edward Bulmer paint. The larger wardrobe was designated for her daughter, owing to her extensive clothing collection. The interiors of the worn-out chests were lined with leftover wallpaper from the downstairs bathroom, adding a personalized touch. The shared bedroom arrangement was initially an unplanned development. The children had separate rooms when the family moved into the three-bedroom home in December 2019. However, during a grandmother's visit, the siblings shared a room and discovered they enjoyed the arrangement. Despite considering returning to separate rooms, the parents observed their children's strong bond and preference for sharing, deciding to keep them together. The renovation, therefore, served to enhance a living situation that had unexpectedly become a source of comfort and companionship for the siblings. #KidsRoom #DIYRenovation #CottageStyle #BotanicalWallpaper #BoardAndBatten #SharedBedroom #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BeatrixPotterInspired

Anastasia Parmson, an award-winning artist originally from Estonia and currently based in Sydney, Australia, has gained recognition for her distinctive approach to art by transforming domestic interiors into two-dimensional illusions. Her work involves painting household objects and entire rooms in a cartoon style, primarily using black lines on a white base, to create the impression of a flat drawing. This unique artistic expression evolved from her studies in Visual Arts in France, where she began experimenting with 3D drawn objects made from foam board. After extensive international travel, she revisited this concept in 2017, focusing on black and white furniture and small objects, which gradually expanded into the large-scale room installations seen today. Parmson's primary inspiration for this body of work is her deep affection for drawing, seeking to push the boundaries of this traditional medium by giving simple black lines more dimension and magnitude. Her installations are not intended as interior design or decoration but rather as fine art, often created as site-specific pieces for temporary art exhibitions. A recurring theme in her work is the exploration of 'home' and 'belonging,' reflecting her personal experiences of feeling like an outsider. The domestic settings she creates are infused with personal narratives, incorporating vintage objects from the 1980s and 1990s that evoke specific memories, alongside modern design elements that represent aspirations. Her artistic journey has been significantly shaped by influential figures, particularly her teacher Eric Laniol at Strasbourg University, who fostered her love for drawing and art. Additionally, the artist Pipilotti Rist has served as a major inspiration, with Parmson admiring Rist's use of domestic spaces to craft emotional and inviting environments for audiences. The process of creating these elaborate installations is meticulous and time-consuming. The most demanding part is preparing the pure white base, which can take several days and multiple coats of paint to achieve a smooth, matte finish. For instance, a 35-square-meter room installation at the Bathurst Regional Gallery took approximately 2.5 years to complete. Despite the extensive preparation, Parmson finds the act of drawing the black lines to be the most enjoyable aspect of her practice, expressing a desire to dedicate all her time to this creative process. The audience's reaction to her work varies significantly between online and in-person experiences. Viewers encountering her art on small screens often perceive the dense black lines as overwhelming or stressful. However, those who experience the installations in person typically find them inviting and serene. They are often delighted by the immersive quality of stepping into a drawing, with many feeling nostalgic for childhood memories or their own love for drawing. These in-person interactions often spark creativity in viewers, with some expressing a desire to draw or color, an outcome Parmson finds deeply gratifying. She announced an upcoming online sale of limited original works in early November for her international audience, encouraging interested collectors to follow her social media or join her email list for updates. #AnastasiaParmson #2DIllusion #InstallationArt #HomeInteriorArt #DrawingArt #SiteSpecificArt #ContemporaryArt #AustralianArt #FineArt

Monika Bacanskaite, a makeup artist and mother from Somerset, successfully transformed a spare bedroom in her new home into a glamorous dressing room, fulfilling her long-held desire for a Kardashian-style glam space. This ambitious project was completed on a strict budget of £300, utilizing resources from popular retailers like Argos, Amazon, and The Range. The previous state of the room was described as dark and dull, lacking inspiration. Monika aimed to create a light-filled, functional beauty area without incurring the high costs typically associated with custom-built walk-in wardrobes. Her innovative approach began by re-purposing existing furniture and strategically integrating new, affordable items. To construct the main wardrobe unit, Monika ingeniously combined two Argos bookcases she already owned. She connected these bookcases with a wardrobe rail purchased from Amazon, creating a stable and functional structure for hanging clothes. This setup provided a dedicated space for jackets and other apparel, mimicking a built-in wardrobe without the hefty price tag. For shoe storage, she placed an Argos cube storage unit in the center of the two bookcases, fitting perfectly within the new design. Lighting played a crucial role in transforming the room's ambiance. Monika installed stick-on LED lights, also sourced from Amazon, along the top of the bookcase shelves. These lights not only illuminated her fashion items but also contributed to the overall bright and inviting atmosphere of the dressing room. For the vanity area, Monika demonstrated further resourcefulness. She disassembled an old bathroom cabinet and repurposed its components to create small shelves around her mirror. These shelves were painted white to match the room's new aesthetic and provided practical storage for beauty products, ensuring that nothing went to waste. The choice of white paint for the entire room was deliberate, aiming for a clean, light, and versatile backdrop that would complement any decor. The dressing table stools were purchased from The Range, aligning with her desired aesthetic. Monika expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the final cost of the transformation, including a rug, dressing table, mirrors, and storage units, was between £250 and £300. Her project serves as an inspiring example of how creativity and budget-conscious shopping can result in a luxurious and personalized home space, proving that dream rooms are attainable without exorbitant spending. #HomeMakeover #BudgetDecor #DressingRoom #DIYHomeDecor #BedroomTransformation #AffordableDesign #InteriorDesign #GlamRoom

The article focuses on selecting wall art for children's rooms that can adapt to their changing tastes as they grow, aiming to reduce the need for frequent redecorating. It emphasizes choosing pieces that offer personality without being overly specific to a particular childhood phase. The selections avoid popular characters, which children tend to outgrow quickly, and instead highlight designs with vibrant colors, interesting shapes, and versatile sizes that can be mixed and matched. One featured item is the "Fun & Games Framed Print" from West Elm and Minted. This domino-themed print is designed to be appealing to both younger children and older kids, available in various frame finishes and sizes to suit different room aesthetics. Another recommendation is the "Playful Art Gallery Wall" from DESENIO, which provides a customizable collection of prints. This allows parents to curate a display that can evolve over time, either by purchasing the entire set or by selecting individual pieces. PSTR Studio's "Enikő Eged - Horses of Wadi Rum" print is presented as a minimalist yet bold option. Printed on museum-quality paper, this artwork is suitable for playrooms and bedrooms and comes with multiple frame color choices, including orange, pink, and green. For a more interactive and functional option, the "Shape Play by Elizabeth Olwen" from Felt Right offers felt shapes that not only add visual interest but also help to reduce noise and echo in a room, with the flexibility to be arranged in various configurations. The article also suggests the "Calming Dots Posters Bundle" from Etsy, which offers a set of six digital art files. This provides parents with the flexibility to print the artwork at home or through a print service, allowing for customization in size and medium. For a more contemporary and striking look, the "Handmade Modern Abstract Wall Decor on Acrylic" from Wayfair is highlighted for its ability to reflect light and add significant color to a room. For those with a penchant for vintage or specific themes, the "Surfin' Wheels II Wall Art" from Great Big Canvas, designed by Paul McCreery, offers a retro-inspired canvas print depicting a jeep with a surfboard. This piece is presented as a durable option that can remain relevant for years, especially for children interested in beaches or cars. A timeless choice, "Super Shadow" by Andy Okay, features an image of Batman, appealing to a broad age range. Proceeds from this art, a collaboration with Jason Ratliff and the Non-Violence Project, also support charity. Banksy's "Dream Big Dreams" print, available through Paints Lab, is another recommendation for its broad appeal across all ages. Additionally, the "Pink Modern Gummy Candy" canvas print from Stupell Industries on Wayfair transforms a childhood favorite into a sophisticated art piece with a stained-glass effect. For easily changeable art, Displate offers "Food Plants" metal posters by Jonas Loose, which utilize an innovative wall magnet system, allowing for quick updates to a room's decor. Finally, the "Kawaii Cactus Neon Wall Sign" from Zanvis Neon is suggested for adding a modern and playful touch with its vibrant neon glow and includes a wall mounting kit and wireless remote for convenience. #KidsRoomDecor #WallArt #ChildrensDecor #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #KidsArt #NurseryDecor #PlayroomDecor

As the summer season concludes and autumn approaches, the article highlights Dunelm's 'Summerween' collection, offering affordable home decor items to transition living spaces for the cooler months. The collection aims to bring a cozy, autumnal atmosphere into homes with prices starting from £2. Among the featured items is the Churchgate Pumpkin Spice Pot Pourri, priced at £4. This product infuses any room with a pumpkin fragrance, contributing to an autumnal look and scent. Another selection is the Churchgate Olive Leaf & Fern Round Multi Wick Candle, available for £12. This candle is designed to create a tranquil forest ambiance with its blend of crisp olive leaf and earthy fern notes, promoting a serene and relaxing environment. The collection also includes decorative pieces such as the Artificial Green & Orange Pumpkin Wreath, priced at £30. This wreath, measuring 45cm in diameter, combines cream velvet pumpkins, berries, lamb’s ear, and other foliage, making it a versatile decor item for walls, hallways, or autumn-themed events. For a playful touch, the Orange Fox Square Cushion is offered at £8. This cushion features a fox design and is filled with 100% recycled polyester for comfort, with a machine-washable removable cover. Further items designed to enhance the autumnal theme include the Artificial Autumn Eucalyptus Bouquet, which brings a natural look with detailed artificial leaves. The Sand Pumpkin Photo Holder, priced at £3, offers a unique coastal charm with its sandy color, providing a fresh take on seasonal decor. For ambiance, the LED Blow Out Pillar Candle, starting from £2, provides a flameless, real wax LED candle experience with a convenient blow-out function. The Toadstool Wreath Square Cushion, priced at £18, is made from soft velvet with an embroidered mushroom illustration, adding warmth and a cozy touch. An Artificial Autumnal Berries Lit Garland, available for £8, features 20 LED lights and realistic leaves and berries, perfect for draping over mantels or staircases to create a festive glow. For a touch of whimsy, the Ceramic Ghost Candle Holder, at £3.50, is designed for tealights, adding a playful and spooky element for Halloween. Additional items include the Evans Lichfield Shugborough Squirrel Square Cushion, costing £19, which features a hand-painted red squirrel design on durable polyester, and the Zesty Lemons Set of 4 Marrakesh Sandalwood & Musk Tealights, priced at £24, offering a luxurious scent with reusable ceramic vessels. These items collectively offer a variety of options for homeowners to decorate their spaces for the autumn season on a budget. #HomeDecor #AutumnDecor #Dunelm #BudgetFriendly #SeasonalDecor #InteriorDesign #Summerween #HomeAccessories

This article highlights the growing trend of integrating aesthetically pleasing and imaginative toys into children's bedrooms and playrooms, moving beyond traditional, brightly colored plastic toys. It emphasizes a shift towards toys that serve both as play items and decorative elements, often crafted from natural materials and featuring sophisticated color palettes. The article contrasts two types of toy shops: large retailers with an abundance of conventional toys that primarily excite children, and independent toy stores that offer more curated selections appealing to both children's imaginations and adult aesthetic preferences. These independent stores typically stock items like wooden shepherd’s huts and stacking animals, which are designed to complement stylish interiors. Lucy Estherby, founder of the children’s lifestyle store Acorn & Pip, notes that well-designed toys are increasingly being displayed on shelves, mantelpieces, and furniture, creating charming decorative vignettes. Her recommendations for stylish displays include a stacking puzzle from Little Dutch, a Miffy lamp, a wooden ferris wheel from Trixie, and nostalgic Sun Jellies bags. A popular item is a mini decorated piano from Moulin Roty, described as beautiful enough for a film set. A significant focus is placed on Maileg mouse houses, which are presented as the ultimate blend of attractive design and child appeal. These elaborate dollhouses feature soft, charming mice, complete with miniature furniture and accessories like rolltop baths and working lamps. The influence of social media on the popularity of such items is evident, with a surge in Maileg searches on Acorn & Pip's website following a viral video by YouTuber Zoë Sugg. Kathryn Watson, who creates miniature dollhouse accessories for Maileg lovers through her brand Oh Sew Rosie, observes a rising interest in modern dollhouses among both children and adults. This interest stems from a desire to create miniature versions of ideal interior styles, especially for those who may lack the space or resources to implement them in their full-sized homes. Watson also points out that these miniature accessories are used to decorate dollhouses for various seasons and special occasions, such as birthdays, with her selling over 1,700 tiny sparkly party hats. She suggests that these small scenes can be created anywhere, not just in dollhouses, and can act as an invitation to play while also enhancing a room's aesthetic. The article concludes by showcasing a selection of decorative toys and their prices, encouraging readers to transform children’s spaces with these stylish and imaginative items, referred to as 'shelf candy.' These items include a dollhouse from H&M, a bear basket from Meri Meri, a birthday train from Ando, a Maileg bundle from Folk Interiors, a night light from Moulin Roty, a wooden windmill from Tender Leaf, various accessories from Oh Sew Rosie, a rattan ark from Ferm Living, wooden eggs from Grapat, a wooden ferris wheel from Trixie, and mythical creature plushies from Olli Ella. #KidsBedrooms #DecorativeToys #PlayroomDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorStyle #Maileg #ChildrensToys #AestheticSensibility #ShelfCandy