A Cottagecore IKEA Hack Made It Possible for Two Sisters to Share a Room

Jarod Sabatino and his partner, Tim, transformed an underutilized closet in their 1930s Chicago suburbs home into a spacious walk-in closet, saving an estimated $8,000 to $11,000 by opting for an IKEA Pax system hack instead of custom closet solutions from companies like Container Store or California Closets. Their primary bedroom, measuring 11-by-25 feet, provided ample space to expand the existing closet by at least three feet. Initially, they explored professional options, receiving quotes of approximately $7,000 from Container Store and $12,000 from California Closets. Deciding these were too expensive, they turned to the more affordable IKEA Pax wardrobe system, drawing inspiration and practical guidance from design bloggers Chris and Julia Marcum, who had previously documented their own Pax customization project. Sabatino found the process of converting generic, cost-effective particleboard wardrobes into a high-end, custom-looking space highly satisfying. The entire project cost them $3,935. The renovation began with creating a new barrier using drywall, costing $150. For the closet doors, they sourced antique pocket doors from a local Reuse Depot for $355, aiming for a look that felt original to the 100-year-old home. These doors were painted black to avoid clashing wood tones and installed on a pocket frame to maximize space within the bedroom. The core of the hack involved the IKEA Pax system itself, which cost $1,570. To achieve a custom built-in appearance, they applied trim pieces and door fronts to the wardrobe units, a technique learned from the Marcums. They also doubled the thickness of the half-inch shelves to make them appear more substantial and used wood pieces and caulk to cover seams. For the built-in dresser look, they combined two open-drawer units and attached custom fronts with a combination of drilling and gluing. Painting proved to be the most challenging aspect of the project, costing $149. Sabatino discovered that a shellac-based primer, applied with a respirator mask, was essential for the paint to adhere smoothly to IKEA's glossy surfaces. A flimsy back-wall piece from their IKEA order, which had a visible seam, was disguised by covering it with textured wallpaper and painting it the same Narragansett Green by Benjamin Moore as the cabinets, effectively hiding the crack. Lighting added $1,124 to the total. The ceiling was covered with shiplap, which cost $200. A minor miscalculation during the installation of canned light fixtures required a hole to be filled and redrilled. Kelly Wearstler–designed fixtures were installed above the dresser, an easier task due to the hollow construction of the particleboard, allowing for conduit routing. Crown molding, costing $83, was added for a professional finish and to maintain consistency with the home's existing style, requiring careful cuts and extensive caulking. The final touches included custom-cut and walnut-stained rods, costing $248, to match the home's flooring. Drawer hardware was purchased affordably from Amazon for $56. Sabatino noted that the new walk-in closet, despite the house lacking an en suite, significantly enhanced the home's value and made daily tasks like laundry more enjoyable. #IKEAHack #PaxSystem #WalkInCloset #DIYRenovation #HomeImprovement #BudgetDesign #BeforeAndAfter #CustomCloset #HomeRenovation

Laura and Rian, a couple from the Midlands, successfully reconfigured the ground floor of their home to create a dream open-plan living space, saving over £30,000 in building fees by opting for a room swap instead of an extension. They transformed their overly large living room into an open-plan kitchen and dining area, and subsequently converted the old kitchen into a cozy snug. This innovative approach allowed them to achieve their desired home layout, which better suited their growing family with two young children, without incurring the substantial costs associated with a traditional extension. Upon moving into their home, the existing kitchen was small and separate, posing challenges for Laura, a homes journalist, who needed to supervise her toddler while cooking. Initial quotes for a kitchen extension were around £30,000, a sum that was prohibitive when combined with the cost of a new kitchen, flooring, and finishing touches. Laura, drawing on her expertise, decided to explore alternative layouts by printing floorplans and sketching new configurations. She realized that their existing living room was excessively large, with furniture only occupying a third of the space, making it an ideal candidate for conversion into a spacious kitchen and dining area. The adjacent old dining room was then designated to become an open-plan sitting area, and the original kitchen was reimagined as a snug living room. The couple undertook a significant portion of the renovation work themselves. They stripped out the rooms, removing old wallpaper, carpet, and a fireplace. Rian, on furlough from his job as a pilot, taught himself plumbing through YouTube tutorials to reposition radiators and manage the kitchen's plumbing. While they largely agreed on design choices, a minor disagreement arose over keeping a 1960s archway, which Rian initially wanted to remove but later grew to appreciate. A family friend who was a builder assisted with structural changes, including adjusting window openings, adding a side door, and relocating the room's entrance to offer a view of the garden upon entry. Professional help was enlisted for kitchen fitting and flooring installation, acknowledging the limits of their DIY capabilities. For the kitchen design, they utilized a free Zoom consultation with Magnet, opting for a modern take on a traditional style with blue and grey Shaker units and white quartz worktops. The layout featured a U-shaped kitchen with an island that served as a breakfast bar, equipped with an AEG double oven, induction hob, and integrated fridge, freezer, and dishwasher. Finishing touches included herringbone luxury vinyl flooring from Karndean and marble hexagon tiles from Topps Tiles for the splashback. The dining area was furnished with velvet sofas from Swyft and a black glass storage cabinet from JYSK. Approximately a year after completing the kitchen, they tackled the transformation of the old kitchen into a small living room or snug. Again, they performed most of the work themselves, aside from plastering and floor fitting. This snug, completed in March, became a perfect retreat for watching TV after the children were asleep. It featured a corner sofa from Next, accessorized with cushions from Dunelm, and walls painted in 'Good Intentions' from COAT Paints. A natural rattan lampshade from MADE.COM added to the ambiance. Travel photographs from before they had children adorned the walls, adding personal touches and complementing a bottle green velvet snuggle chair from Next that offered garden views. A bespoke, built-in media unit, painted by Laura in a color matched to 'Green Smoke' by Farrow & Ball, provided storage and concealed the TV, serving as a display for books, plants, and decorative items. The entire renovation project demonstrates how strategic room swapping and dedicated DIY efforts can result in a personalized, functional, and cost-effective home transformation. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #KitchenDesign #DIYHomeImprovement #CostSaving #RoomSwap #FamilyHome #InteriorDesign

This article details the transformation of a previously unused attic in a 1930s Arts and Crafts home in Melbourne into two imaginative and functional bedrooms for two children aged eight and eleven. The project, undertaken by Windust Architecture x Interiors, aimed to create distinct spaces that reflected each child's personality while integrating seamlessly with the existing architectural style of the house. The renovation began by extending and joining two hipped roof sections at the rear of the property, a decision made in compliance with council heritage controls. This structural modification allowed for the conversion of the dark and dusty attic into liveable space. New walls were strategically placed to delineate the rooms, taking advantage of the high gabled roofs to create unique nooks and alcoves within the new bedrooms and their accompanying bathrooms. The design team also added four new windows to introduce natural light and ventilation, ensuring that the cut-out Ashlar limestone blocks were stored for potential future restoration. Upon ascending to the attic level, a new staircase was designed in harmony with the Arts and Crafts style of the house, featuring turned timber balusters and dark timber railing. Sky-coloured walls and Timorous Beasties ‘Cloud Toile’ wallpaper in Blues from South Pacific Fabrics were used to create an ethereal atmosphere, symbolizing an ascent through the clouds. This thematic approach extended to the entrance of each child's room, where sculpted bronze handles, one depicting a fish and the other a horse, served as playful indicators of the room's owner and their favorite animals. The two bedrooms, while sharing a consistent design language, feature distinct aesthetics based on the children's preferred colors: blue and pink. The 'blue wing' incorporates crisp white walls, oak cabinetry, and angular lines, reflecting the modern sensibilities of the child occupying it. Innovative storage solutions are integrated throughout the space, maximizing its functionality. In contrast, the 'pink wing' embraces a softer palette with accents of mousse pink and English rose, characterized by gentle curves and arches. A narrow alcove in the boy's room features a mirrored wall with a secret door, while the girl's room includes a trinket tower that creates a cozy nook for her desk. Both bedrooms benefit from sky-high views across trees and rooftops, with white walls and ceilings amplifying natural light and enhancing the sense of airiness. The meticulously designed joinery, including timber-framed windows with built-in daybeds and storage, along with custom bedheads, bedside tables, and study desks, reinforces the crafted detailing evident throughout the home. The design language extends to the en-suite bathrooms, which feature Mutina ‘Puzzle’ geometric floor tiles from Urban Edge Ceramics, with blue-and-black or pink-and-green patterns extending partially up the walls. Skylights were also installed in the pink wing to further augment natural light. Throughout the renovation, Windust Architecture x Interiors collaborated closely with cabinet makers and upholsterers to ensure precise detailing. The project also necessitated extensive external work, accounting for 60% of the budget, including the replacement of leaky roof tiles. Welsh slate, consistent with the original house, was sourced and installed in a patchwork pattern of green, purple, and grey to maintain the home's historic appearance from the exterior. The successful conversion created two unique and personal spaces that honor the children's imaginations without altering the external character of the 1930s Arts and Crafts residence. #AtticConversion #KidsBedrooms #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArtsAndCraftsStyle #WindustArchitecture #MelbourneHomes #CreativeStorage #HeritageBuilding

Designer Anita Yokota shares insights into creating a functional and harmonious shared bedroom for her two daughters, Natalie (12) and Emily (7), who share a bunk bed. Having grown up sharing a room herself, Yokota understands the dynamics of siblings cohabiting a space, acknowledging both the squabbles and the cherished memories formed. Her immediate goal is to enhance their living area, particularly focusing on organization, as a tiny, old closet with problematic sliding doors has been a persistent challenge for the girls. Yokota, also a trained marriage and family therapist, emphasizes that constant struggles over space can negatively impact sibling relationships. To address the closet issue, Yokota devised a clever DIY solution. She removed the original, nearly 30-year-old mirror sliding doors, which offered limited access, and replaced them with extra-tall curtain panels made from durable Sunbrella Fusion fabric. These panels were mounted on a ceiling track, allowing both girls simultaneous access to their belongings and significantly reducing conflict over space. She highlights that this simple yet effective modification has eased the stress of sharing. Beyond the curtain solution, Yokota advocates for investing in personalized, structural storage systems within the closet. She specifically praises the Container Store's Elfa products, which she customized to include a mix of open shelves, hanging rods at varying heights for different types of clothing, and drawers. While acknowledging the initial higher cost, she argues that such systems save money in the long run by eliminating the need for numerous basic bins and baskets. She stresses the importance of customizing storage to fit odd spaces, advising against a one-size-fits-all approach. Furthermore, Yokota offers practical advice for other aspects of a tween bedroom. For flooring, she recommends luxury vinyl tiles that mimic hardwood or, as a more budget-friendly option, washable rugs over existing carpet, recognizing that shared bedrooms often become snacking zones. To promote better sleep, she replaced old shutters with light-blocking roller shades and airy drapery, and swapped a non-bunk-bed-friendly ceiling fan for a woven pendant light, creating a more cocoon-like environment. A kid-sized mid-century inspired vanity by the window adds a functional and stylish touch. Finally, Yokota discusses the strategic placement of a rattan swing, which, after being monopolized by the girls in the living room, found a new home in their bedroom. This whimsical, space-friendly piece, safely secured in a ceiling stud, not only adds a playful element but also provides a soothing activity beneficial for child development. The swing also implicitly encourages the girls to practice sharing and taking turns, reinforcing the positive aspects of their shared space. #SharedBedroom #TweenRoom #ClosetOrganization #DIYStorage #HomeDesign #KidsBedroom #InteriorDesign #SpaceSaving #ParentingTips

A mother named Jodie successfully transformed her teenage daughters' shared bedroom into two private spaces using an IKEA Kallax unit as a divider, a solution praised for its ingenuity and cost-effectiveness. The transformation provided each daughter with individual privacy, addressing their growing need for personal space. The total cost of the project was between £250 and £300, significantly reduced by purchasing the IKEA unit second-hand. The project involved carefully measuring the room to ensure a symmetrical split, accommodating each girl's essential furniture. Each newly created "room" features a single bed, five drawers within the Kallax unit, a dressing table that also functions as a desk, and a full-length mirror. To further enhance privacy and define each area, a curtain rail and curtain, sourced from The Range, were installed to create a visual and partial sound barrier between the two sections. The aesthetic was personalized with one side decorated in pink and the other in purple, reflecting the individual preferences of the daughters. Beyond the major structural elements, Jodie incorporated several budget-friendly decor items to furnish the spaces. The dressing tables were acquired from B&M;, and decorative picture prints for the purple side were found on Etsy. A centrally placed lampshade, purchased from a charity shop, provides light to both sides of the divided room, highlighting a resourceful approach to home decoration. The overall design prioritizes functionality and personal comfort within a constrained space. The project has garnered significant positive attention on TikTok, where Jodie shared the transformation. Viewers widely commended the idea, with many expressing admiration for the clever use of space and the affordable execution. Comments highlighted the project as one of the "nicest room splits" seen, with many users praising Jodie's resourcefulness and the impressive outcome. The sentiment was that the mother had done an "amazing" job, providing much-needed privacy for her teenage daughters. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few individuals shared minor criticisms or observations. Some noted that the separated spaces might still allow for sound transfer, suggesting that while visually divided, complete auditory privacy might not be achieved. Another comment mentioned that the new layout appeared somewhat sparse, describing it as needing more warmth. Nevertheless, the dominant response lauded the practical and creative solution for a common household challenge, inspiring other parents to consider similar home transformations for their children. #HomeTransformations #IKEAHacks #TeenageBedrooms #ParentingTips #DIYDecor #BudgetFriendly #RoomDividers #SpaceSavingSolutions

In a 900-square-foot New Jersey home, photographer Jillian Guyette and her husband, Robert, faced the challenge of designing a functional and clutter-free nursery for their daughter, Frankie, within a mere 112 square feet. They consciously requested minimal gifts from loved ones, prioritizing quality time with their baby over accumulating numerous items. Frankie's arrival coincided with the state's lockdown, leading to a unique experience where Jillian was among the last to have an extra person present during delivery. This period of intense togetherness and adjustment, aided by her father-in-law who lived next door, allowed for essential home renovations tailored to their small space. A key design element in the nursery is a custom reading nook created from two IKEA Kallax shelf units, each costing $100. Robert and his father stacked these units, securing them to the wall, and added trim to achieve a built-in appearance. They then modified the lower unit by removing two dividers and lining the opening with engineered birch plywood to form a cozy reading nook for Frankie. This clever hack transformed standard shelving into a personalized space where Frankie's board books are stored in baskets on the bottom shelves, while other books are artfully displayed higher up, including a cherished childhood copy of "Curious George" belonging to Jillian. The couple maintains an evening routine of tidying up to manage clutter effectively. To ensure safety and versatility, Jillian opted for an upholstered linen dresser, which had served in the guest room previously. Its soft, fabric-covered corners provide baby-proofing without a overtly childish aesthetic, allowing the piece to seamlessly transition to other uses as Frankie grows. She augmented this with a matching chest, placing both side-by-side to maximize storage and converting the top of the original dresser into a changing station. This choice reflected her preference for adaptable furniture over dedicated changing tables with short shelf lives, emphasizing that any surface of appropriate width and height can serve the purpose. The nursery's decor deliberately avoids a themed approach, instead incorporating meaningful and timeless items. A crystal ball, significant to Jillian's family history, is displayed on a high shelf, out of Frankie's reach, reflecting a blend of personal sentiment and practicality. The gallery wall above the Lolly 3-in-1 crib features an eclectic mix of art, including a linoleum block reduction from Jillian's mother, a watercolor Jillian painted during a false labor, and a banner she crafted from vintage kimono fabric and her husband’s old jeans. This curation of personal pieces imbues the small space with character and warmth, proving that sentimental and special items can be integrated into a nursery without being specifically child-centric, thereby maximizing the impact of a compact environment. #NurseryDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #IKEAHack #DIYHomeDecor #StorageSolutions #BabyProofing #SentimentalDecor #KidsRooms

Harriette Cayzer, co-founder of the design firm Taylor & Turner, undertook a significant renovation of a London bachelor pad she initially refused to move into due to its overgrown garden and muddled furniture. With a growing family, including a 3-year-old daughter named Isobel and a second child on the way, Cayzer needed to transform the space into a functional and welcoming home. Her primary focus was to expand the third-story loft to accommodate a guest suite and a dedicated bedroom for Isobel. The loft space, despite being the smallest in the Victorian home, was strategically designed to maximize its potential. Given the heavily slanted roof, Cayzer opted for a built-in daybed, envisioning it as an "enclosed nest" for her daughter. To create space for a closet in an adjacent guest room, she ingeniously borrowed square footage from Isobel’s room, leaving just enough for a twin bed. Cayzer, who dislikes "dead space or voids," incorporated a nightstand niche and a bookcase, which has become a cherished spot for Isobel’s nightly bedtime stories. To enhance the coziness of the sloped bed alcove, Cayzer employed a clever fabric trick. She paneled the walls and ceiling with Pierre Frey’s Fleurs Etranges textile, further accentuating it with a red Samuel & Sons trim. The area was softened with a matching headboard and footer, upholstered in Romo’s Ruskin linen in a raspberry hue. Additional decorative elements included scalloped bedding from Cologne & Cotton and a sconce featuring a Fermoie pleated shade. For the rest of the room, Cayzer chose a custom pistachio paint from Dulux, meticulously matched to the floral fabric. Initially, she harbored some reservations about this color choice, jokingly attributing it to "pregnancy brain." However, once the Pierre Frey textile was installed, she recognized the perfect harmony between the fabric and the paint. The pistachio hue creates a bright and airy atmosphere during the day, yet transitions to a soft, glowing ambiance in the evening, ensuring the room never feels dark. Storage was a critical consideration for the second floor, which housed the main bedroom and nursery. Cayzer prioritized adding ample storage solutions within the extension. Under-bed drawers provide space for out-of-season items, while a closet on the opposite wall, featuring doors that seamlessly blend into the monochromatic mint scheme, stores Isobel’s clothes. The hanging rails are thoughtfully placed at Isobel's height, and nooks are included for her treasured possessions, with her dresses often displayed on the knobs. Upon completion, Cayzer realized the profound, almost subconscious, connection to her own childhood bedroom, which also featured a pink and green color palette, indicating a recreation of a beloved memory. #KidsRooms #SmallSpaces #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #PistachioHue #FabricWalls #BuiltInBed #LondonHome #StorageSolutions

Interior designer Evans Geisler and her architect husband undertook a significant renovation of their two-story Williamsburg row house, transforming it from a dual-unit bachelor pad into a single-family home tailored for a family with three young sons. The couple purchased the house in 2014 from Geisler’s brother, who had acquired it in 2007. The initial state of the house was characterized by two separate units: one on the ground floor occupied by Geisler's brother's college roommate, and the second floor where her brother resided. The primary goal of the renovation was to consolidate these into a cohesive single-family residence, while also incorporating a small pied-à-terre apartment at the back of the second floor. Geisler described the house's original aesthetic as typical of two young men living in Williamsburg, lacking architectural personality and requiring a comprehensive update. The row houses in Williamsburg are often narrow and basic, prompting Geisler's initial improvement to be the removal of the entryway hallway, which she believed contributed to a sense of confinement. On the main floor, the design strategy focused on creating an open-plan layout by removing as many interior walls as possible, integrating the kitchen and living room into a single fluid space. A key element of this transformation was the restoration of the original staircase, which, along with a newly installed built-in bookcase, became prominent focal points upon entering the home. The original staircase, deemed the only element possessing inherent character, underwent extensive restoration. Layers of paint were meticulously stripped from the newel post, missing balusters were replaced, and the treads and handrail were stained dark, contrasting with white-painted balusters. In the kitchen, the design incorporated Caesarstone countertops and Ikea cabinets, complemented by open shelving. Geisler highlighted her preference for open shelving in the kitchen, noting that maintaining a coordinated look with white, off-white, and wood elements facilitated a clean and harmonious aesthetic. The renovation also extended to the rear of the first floor, where the bathroom was enlarged. A playroom was created in this area, featuring a Murphy bed for accommodating guests and a built-in desk designed for homework, catering to the needs of a growing family. Upstairs, new walls were constructed to define two bedrooms and to functionally separate the aforementioned rear apartment from the main living quarters of the house. Geisler's overarching design philosophy for the home was to create a casual and highly kid-friendly environment, given that she had a toddler and was pregnant during the renovation. This involved avoiding overly fussy or expensive elements and implementing organizational systems to mitigate clutter and manage the daily demands of family life. All three sons share a single bedroom, which is equipped with a crib and custom bunk beds. Geisler acknowledged that some might find this arrangement unconventional but noted its general effectiveness, particularly in fostering interaction among the boys. The interior walls throughout the house were uniformly painted in Benjamin Moore's Chalk White, and the floors were stained to the darkest possible shade. Geisler emphasized the importance of a cohesive design throughout the entire house, asserting that a consistent aesthetic facilitates a smooth transition between rooms and contributes to a unified overall impression. #WilliamsburgRenovation #InteriorDesign #KidFriendlyHome #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRestoration #KitchenDesign #CustomBunkBeds #FamilyHome #BrooklynDesign

This article highlights two residential design projects in Edmonton, focusing on how local designers transformed family living rooms into functional and stylish spaces that balance lounging and entertaining. The first project, led by Jehan Hamdan-Fayad of Modern Era Design, involved finishing a basement in a MacTaggart home for a family of four. The initial stage focused on presenting various options for mirrors, lighting, flooring, counters, and 3D renderings for a potential bar area. Once the client hired a contractor and completed the structural work, Hamdan-Fayad returned for stage two, which involved finalizing lighting choices, the overall color scheme, incorporating metal cladding wallpaper on a feature wall, and furnishing the space. A key element of this basement transformation is a full band setup, catering to the family's shared love for music, including guitars, drums, amps, speakers, and microphones. The space also features a wet bar, designed to accommodate guests during musical jams or karaoke sessions. Hamdan-Fayad emphasizes the creative freedom and potential for surprising clients when working with unfinished basements, aiming to create comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environments rather than typical 'dungeon-like' basements. The result is a basement that serves as a stylish music venue, complete with a large, comfortable couch and an industrial-chic aesthetic. The second project, undertaken by Tracy Fortin of Flawless Interiors, focused on renovating a Riverbend family's living area, which eventually extended to the entire house. The primary goal was to make the living room a more utilized space, as the family had previously underused it. The renovation involved reconfiguring the layout, moving a piano from a less-used front living room to a newly opened main floor area. This was achieved by transforming the original living room into a dining room and removing a small office wall. A significant change involved replacing a bay window with a new backyard-facing window and demolishing a wall, which paradoxically increased the amount of natural light in the space. Fortin also addressed the flooring, replacing the original dark slate with porcelain tile in a herringbone pattern, chosen for its functionality and scratch resistance, and offering a unique alternative to common hardwood or luxury vinyl plank options. Despite the children largely having grown up and moved out, the redesigned space remains family-focused, emphasizing activities like reading by the window over screen time, reflecting the family's academic interests. The room, which previously had yellow walls and a closed-in feel typical of early '90s homes, now presents a transitional and family-friendly environment designed for comfort and togetherness, especially when the extended family gathers. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LivingRoom #ResidentialRenovation #FamilySpace #InteriorStyling #BasementRenovation #FunctionalDesign

A Baltimore-based family with two young sons sought to transform their home, desiring a serene environment that still embraced art and color. They enlisted interior designers Robin Heller and Jen Levy of Surrounded by Color to overhaul their upstairs living quarters and add a new room off the kitchen. The primary goal was to minimize the appearance of everyday family chaos and integrate functional spaces seamlessly into the home's aesthetic. The project encompassed renovating three bedrooms, updating the primary bathroom, relocating the laundry room, and constructing a small yet impactful addition. The design strategy for the children's bedrooms focused on creating memorable and cozy spaces. The designers utilized a rich mix of patterns, fabrics, and wallpapers, allowing the boys to choose finishing touches for their rooms. Each room was outfitted with a reading chair, storage shelves, and plush rugs over wall-to-wall carpeting, fostering a sense of safety and coziness. For the primary bedroom, the challenge involved accommodating a king-size Blu Dot bed within a modest footprint that was slated to become slightly smaller. Heller and Levy commissioned custom utilitarian boxes from a local millworker to extend the headboard, integrating sleek reading lights and hidden outlets. The designers chose a deep jewel-toned blue paint for the entire primary bedroom, including ceilings, walls, and doors, to create a monochrome, serene atmosphere and distinguish it from the rest of the house. During the reframing, the couple intentionally reduced the bedroom's square footage to expand the bathroom and create a dedicated laundry zone, thereby eliminating the temptation of using a lounge chair for clutter. The renovation of the primary bathroom and the creation of an upstairs laundry room were significant changes. The previous closet and bathroom were gutted and reframed, allowing for the new laundry area. The addition of sliding doors and an existing skylight, which extends into the bathroom, contributed to an airy feel in the laundry room, making the chore more pleasant and providing an option to conceal laundry piles. For the laundry room's palette, the designers drew inspiration from Barragán and Mexico City, using Backdrop’s Barragán Cito pink for the walls, a teal blue for the ceiling, and Formica countertops in Earthenware. The primary bathroom’s design was influenced by the home's overall aesthetic, the couple’s art collection, and their appreciation for mid-century modern design. A unique shower wall pattern with wider grout lines than typical tile jobs was implemented, which initially raised questions but ultimately achieved the intended distinctive look. A wide picture window in the shower, overlooking a woodsy backyard, became a cherished feature. Local architecture studio Ziger/Snead developed the plans for the new addition, which the homeowners refer to as a 'refuge.' The designers prioritized incorporating wood and varying textures to prevent the space from appearing too 'new build' or 'slick.' This was achieved through faux plaster walls, large windows, and tile flooring, complemented by furniture selections that infuse coziness and timelessness. Many larger pieces were custom-made by local craftspeople, including a white oak round table, a lounger, and a built-in plywood sofa. Vintage elements, such as a 1970s coffee table, orange Charlotte Perriand wall lights, and Bruno Rey chairs, were also incorporated. A white electric Malm fireplace was added at the client's request. The new room serves as a versatile space for both children and adults, allowing for family activities or individual quiet time, contributing to the overall functionality and aesthetic balance of the home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #FamilyHome #LaundryRoom #BedroomDesign #BathroomRenovation #VintageAccents #ColorPalette

Lindsey and Ruth, a couple from Teesside with two young children, Aria and Ivy, faced significant challenges with their home's layout before renovation. The existing structure featured a cramped living room, kitchen, and dining room, offering limited living space and minimal storage. A major inconvenience was the tiny hallway at the entrance, which opened directly onto the stairs, making it difficult to maneuver a baby stroller and causing a bottleneck for entering and exiting the house. Furthermore, the cloakroom's location near the kitchen meant traversing the entire house to store coats and shoes, highlighting a general lack of practicality in their living arrangement. Despite having a beautiful garden, the house's internal design failed to optimize its potential or cater to the needs of a growing family. The couple allocated £52,000 for the renovation, surpassing their initial budget of £40,000, after securing design proposals from architects Laura Jane Clark and Robert Jamison on the BBC2 show 'Your Home Made Perfect.' They were particularly drawn to Laura Jane Clark's design, which promised to transform their disjointed dwelling into a cohesive, open-plan space. The core of Clark's innovative approach involved relocating the staircase to the left, which dramatically opened up the entrance. This created a spacious, light-filled hallway that not only solved the immediate problem of navigating with a pram but also established a clear connection between the front entrance and the rear of the house and garden. This alteration also provided ample storage solutions, addressing a critical need for the family. The renovation also entailed breaking down walls to merge the previously segmented kitchen, living room, and dining room into a single, expansive open-plan area. This change was crucial for Lindsey and Ruth, who desired an interconnected space where they could easily keep an eye on their children while engaging in other household activities. The new design incorporated bi-fold windows, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior and offering continuous views of the garden. Although Clark initially envisioned the open space primarily for dining and an open kitchen, the couple adapted it to include a central dining table and a comfortable sitting area, effectively extending the living space by 1.7 meters into the garden. Another significant transformation involved the garage, which had previously served as an overflow pantry due to the kitchen's lack of storage. Despite Lindsey's initial reluctance to convert it for fear of devaluing the property, the garage was ultimately repurposed into a functional utility room, equipped with a washing machine and dryer. The comprehensive redesign included the integration of sleek, modern cupboards throughout the kitchen and in the new entrance hallway, ensuring that storage was no longer an issue. The outcome was a home that not only met the practical demands of the family but also garnered widespread praise from viewers for its stunning transformation and thoughtful design elements. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRelocation #HomeDesign #InteriorTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceOptimization #StorageSolutions

Erin McGill, a creative mother, successfully transformed a single children's bedroom into two distinct personal spaces for her children by implementing a DIY room divider project. Utilizing affordable materials primarily sourced from Ikea and B&Q, McGill embarked on this ambitious undertaking to address the need for individual space for her kids. The project involved a significant amount of hands-on work, including sawing pieces of wood to custom fit the room, installing slats, and meticulously painting each side of the room divider in different colors to personalize the newly created areas. The core of the transformation involved the clever integration of Kallax units from Ikea, which were adapted to function as bed frames. These units are well-known for their modularity and storage capabilities, offering a practical solution for maximizing space in the partitioned room. The room dividers themselves were Karalis units purchased from B&Q, chosen for their suitability for creating a clear separation within the existing room layout. McGill noted that while the dividers were generally easy to install, she encountered a challenge with their height, requiring her to build them up to properly fit her room – a task she managed independently. The project was executed with a strong focus on cost-effectiveness, with the Ikea bargains starting from £9 and the B&Q room dividers costing £57. This budget-friendly approach made the extensive room makeover accessible. McGill documented her process and shared the impressive results with the Facebook group 'DIY On A Budget UK.' Her post detailed the step-by-step transformation, including photographs from the initial stages to the completed project, showcasing her dedication and skill. The online community's reaction to McGill's DIY endeavor was overwhelmingly positive. Her post garnered over 1,800 likes and hundreds of comments from individuals praising her ingenuity and the remarkable outcome. Many users expressed admiration for her DIY skills, with comments highlighting the 'amazing' transformation and the 'fabulous' idea. The integration of Kallax units for beds was particularly lauded for providing additional storage, a common challenge in children's rooms. The overall sentiment reflected appreciation for her resourcefulness and the significant improvement in functionality and aesthetics achieved through her independent efforts. This DIY project serves as an inspiring example of how creative problem-solving and budget-conscious design can lead to significant home improvements, particularly in creating personalized and functional spaces for children within a shared room. McGill's ability to undertake and complete the entire project herself further resonated with the DIY community, emphasizing the potential for individuals to achieve professional-looking results with determination and practical skills. #DIYHomeImprovement #KidsRoomIdeas #IkeaHacks #RoomDivider #ParentingSolutions #BudgetDecor #SpaceSaving

Creative parents are repurposing basic Ikea shelving units, specifically the Kallax range, into various bespoke furniture pieces for their homes. The Kallax series, known for its cube storage shelves available in different colors and sizes (from 77 cm to 147 cm in length), is being transformed beyond its standard use as simple shelving. These DIY projects are gaining traction among resourceful individuals looking to create functional and personalized items without significant financial outlay. One of the most popular applications of the Kallax units is their conversion into beds, catering to both single children's beds and double beds. The construction process typically involves combining the easy-to-assemble flat-pack Kallax units with a piece of chipboard or wooden planks to form the bed base. Parents showcase their finished projects on social media groups like "DIY on a Budget Official." For instance, one mother detailed how she cut timber into strips for a bed base and accessorized it with affordable items from retailers like B&M to achieve a comfortable and stylish look. Beyond beds, Kallax units are also being ingeniously adapted into children's playthings. A notable example involved a mum who constructed a DIY doll's house for her daughter using a Kallax unit. She purchased the shelving unit and drawer inserts from Ikea, arranging them upright to serve as a doll's house while simultaneously providing hidden storage. This demonstrates the versatility of the units for creating imaginative and space-efficient solutions for children's rooms. More ambitious projects include themed bedroom decorations for children. One parent crafted a "Frozen"-themed wonderland, incorporating a castle and a miniature slide, all built upon Kallax units. The cube shape of these units also makes them suitable for conversion into steps, further expanding their functional possibilities within a child's environment. Another innovative use of Kallax units is their transformation into room dividers. By strategically placing these storage units in the middle of a room, parents can effectively create distinct zones, such as a cozy sleeping area and a separate space for studying or dressing. This maximizes the utility of a single room, offering both privacy and organization. These Ikea hacks highlight a trend of resourceful customization, allowing individuals to tailor mass-produced furniture to their specific needs and aesthetic preferences, often with budget-friendly results. #Ikea #IkeaHacks #Kallax #DIY #Upcycling #HomeDecor #Parenting #BudgetFriendly #CreativeIdeas

This article offers a glimpse into the dynamic New York City apartment of designer Tali Roth, who shares her living space with her husband, Marcus, and their two sons, Phoenix (4) and Romeo (3 months). An Australian expatriate who moved from Melbourne to Chelsea, NYC, Roth has built a career on crafting imaginative and elegant spaces for clients without excessive spending. This approach is evident in her own rental apartment, which she has meticulously designed over time, emphasizing the importance of leaving room for evolving tastes and expressing personal style through a mix of high-end and affordable finds, such as an IKEA storage unit paired with a 1950s Italian rattan chair and a mohair sofa from Crofthouse L.A. Her gallery wall showcases a diverse collection, including art by Paul Davies and Georgia O’Keeffe alongside flea market discoveries. Currently on maternity leave, Roth has channeled her creative energy back into her home, regularly rearranging furniture, repositioning art, and acquiring new pieces. A recent notable addition is a large Gufram cactus coatrack, strategically placed in the children’s play area. Despite the presence of young children, the apartment maintains a sophisticated aesthetic, with subtle elements like a playhouse or stroller being the only indicators of its family-friendly nature. Roth demonstrates that an elevated family home can be achieved on a budget through thoughtful design choices. Roth offers practical advice for curating a stylish yet low-maintenance rental suitable for both adults and children. She advocates for avoiding delicate textiles, specifically viscose fabrics, which are prone to shriveling when spilled upon. Instead, she recommends resilient materials like wool, highlighting her living room sofa, which was reupholstered in mohair for durability. Her second couch is designed for comfort and practicality, accommodating family movie nights and nursing without concern for damage. Emphasis is placed on selecting sturdy furniture that can withstand the activities of rambunctious children. Roth points to her low-slung marble coffee table as an example, chosen for its stability. While seemingly child-friendly, a collection of round pillows on the sofa presents a humorous challenge, as her son often dislodges and drools on them during morning screen time. The designer also excels at blending high and low design elements to create custom looks. A 170-inch wall-mounted cabinet in the living room, for instance, is an IKEA base enhanced with a Semihandmade top, fronts, and hardware. Similarly, brass-and-wood shelves in the dining room were an Etsy find. Roth prioritizes investing in art and collectible furniture while opting for more budget-friendly options for pieces that might not be transferable to future residences. Reupholstery is presented as a valuable strategy for refreshing existing pieces rather than discarding them. Two orangey-red chairs in Roth’s living room, originally purchased for $300 each from Etsy and initially upholstered in a “poo-green” color, underwent a transformation. They were first covered in baby blue velvet for her son’s room and later re-covered in a rust velvet with white piping, inspired by a hotel in Paris. Despite the cost of reupholstery, Roth views it as a worthwhile investment due to the chairs’ sentimental value and timeless swivel design. For larger purchases, Roth advises thrifty approaches, often sourcing items from auctions and flea markets. Her sofas include one from the ABC Carpet & Home Outlet, and her Rudolf Wolff dining chairs were assembled from two separate vendors, requiring creative adjustments like spray-painting one to match. She also designed her own dining table. Finally, Roth addresses storage challenges common in rental apartments. With limited closet space, she employs a combination of customized pieces and hidden shelves in the boys’ rooms to organize toys and clothes. In the master bedroom, modular IKEA units keep items out of sight. The pieces that are displayed are carefully curated, each possessing a unique story, from a decorative plate acquired in Positano to crystals gifted by her father and a vase purchased during a vacation in Murano. The art throughout the home comprises gifts from friends and neighbors. Through vision, clever hacks, and an appreciation for beautiful details, Roth demonstrates the possibility of creating a family-friendly design that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #NYCDesign #BudgetDecorating #RentalDecor #HighLowMix #FurnitureHacks #SustainableDesign

This article details the home renovation project undertaken by Victoria and Marcus Ford, focusing on the transformation of their bedroom, bathroom, and laundry room. The couple's approach to home decor is described as "intentional," selecting items that reflect their personalities and bring soul to their living spaces. The bedroom makeover centered on creating a tranquil retreat using a light blue paint color for the walls, complemented by darker blue tones in a patchwork quilt and a Kazak-style rug. Personal touches such as souvenir pennants, vintage tennis rackets, and an old state fair sign were integrated to add meaning. A gallery wall above the bed features reproduced "Black ABCs" flash cards, reflecting Victoria's appreciation for African American culture. For functionality, a multipurpose desk replaced traditional nightstands, accommodating work-from-home needs and paired with a repurposed barrel chair. The bedroom also incorporated a pillow-top mattress from the Country Living Welcome Home collection to enhance comfort. Nautical elements, including a flag with Captain James Lawrence's famous order and wooden African American sea captains, were introduced on a dresser, which was painted in Sherwin-Williams' Courtyard, to align with Marcus's interests. The bathroom underwent a significant reconfiguration, moving from an off-center vanity layout to a symmetrical design featuring two wooden vanities. This transformation incorporated a mix of ribbed hardware, brass sconces, chrome faucets, and brass-framed mirrors to create a layered, evolved aesthetic. A large-scale, four-inch hexagon tile flower motif on the floor provided a fresh yet nostalgic feel. A key design element was the sixty-inch-tall blue beadboard wainscoting, adding both height and texture to the space. The shower area was also expanded by removing a glass door, and its walls and ceiling were covered with handmade dusty blue subway tiles, designed to seamlessly integrate with the bathroom's blue theme. For the laundry room, an unused bedroom and an extra hall closet were combined to create a dedicated and spacious area. The new layout features a space-saving laundry tower, built-in cabinets with folding space, and a small work sink. The couple chose a navy and white striped shirt motif wallpaper, which Victoria found appealing and appropriate for the room's function. A large checkerboard tile floor, laid diagonally, was selected to visually expand the space and complement the wallpaper and navy high-gloss paint on the millwork. A vintage sink, reminiscent of Victoria's childhood, was installed, accompanied by a print from artist Elizabeth Mayville. The article highlights the detailed choices and personal touches that defined each room's renovation, resulting in spaces that are both functional and deeply personal to the homeowners. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #BedroomMakeover #BathroomRemodel #LaundryRoom #DecoratingIdeas #CountryLiving #HouseTour