Once there was a very tired two bedroom flat on the second floor of a brick block building. It took some measuring, planning and great deal of imagining and creativity.

A dated kitchen, bathroom, awful paint on the walls and cheap laminate flooring. The flat needed to be stripped out to the core. After few outrageous quotes from local builders we decided to do most of the works ourselves.

Both bathroom and kitchen were completely renovated. Walls, ceilings, skirting, doors and door frames were painted, a new laminate flooring was laid.

And Abracadabra!……………

(images before and after)

Kitchen is narrow but has an amazing view to a greenery of a massive tree and a park behind which I wanted to utilise do I moved the sink underneath the window.

The lime green in contrast to dark tiles and worktop brought life and energy. In the background chalkboard paint for my kids to play and draw on.

The bathroom was really dreadful and I like to think these natural colours work well. Although I couldn’t fit longer bath than 1700mm there is wider corner for stand-in shower.

Master bedroom – first attempt. Superking size ikea bed was later rotated 90 degrees which meant slightly more space but having to climb on it if wanting to open window.

Master bedroom with afternoon light – in the back two Victorian doors from freecycle.

Kids bedroom before and after – flower stickers over the green and blue paint.

grass and butterflies

Living room – the coffee table is upcycled and painted by myself. Sofa is super comfy

Every interier should have Ikea KALLAX unit! – just kidding. I managed to get rid of it later. I made a pledge to have solid wood only and no MDF.

Corridor – view towards the entrance doors.

One thing I learned on the process is that things can’t be rushed, that you need time to think and decide what works and this process is organic and intuitive as much as planned and calculated. So don’t be afraid to go with the flow.

Also great deal of money can be saved if you re-purpose furniture – not everything has to be new. Kids bunk beds were second hand for fraction of price – before you realize they outgrow things and you will be disposing of it …so don’t stress about the fact it has few scratches here or there – it serves the purpose.