Style At Home April 2023

It will come as no surprise to regular readers that I have a few projects on my to-do list to tackle over the Easter break. We’re still working our way through our post-kitchen-refit snagging list, but in the true spirit of procrastination I think I’ll ignore that and start something new instead! Our downstairs loo is in a state of disrepair, and giving that a wow-in-a-weekend makeover seems like the perfect DIY win. I want to replace the limestone-effect tiles with wall panelling, and paint the whole room a bold colour. I may even add some high-impact wallpaper (Sophie’s house on page 30 has inspired me). If you’re also on the lookout for your next project, this issue is stuffed with simple, takeaway ideas, from Easter makes to upcyling projects,…

Next IBIZA VIBES Sandy shades and tactile pieces for a chic, relaxed feel Habitat GEMSTONE HUES Create a rich scheme with jewel tones of emerald, sapphire and amethyst Matalan MODERN FARMHOUSE Update a classic look with natural materials and fresh blues and greens M&S RELAXED RUSTIC Opt for jungle prints and neutral tones for a lived-in look…

Peach is having a revival, and about time, for this fruity shade can be versatile, warming and contemporary. Peach shades, from the palest whisper to almost-orange, team well with many colours, but when combined with other sorbet shades, like pink, creates a dreamy scheme. Warm metallic accents such as gold or copper will amp up the feeling of indulgence.…

1. Introduce striking patterns Use pattern to add depth, choosing prints that are joyful and mood-lifting. Find a print for soft furnishings that carries colours from the rest of the scheme, and echo these shades in cheery abstract artwork. 2. Add interest with colourful panelling Panelling is a great way to add character retrospectively. Paint it in a sunny coral shade, then keep the wall above white. This not only opens up the space, making it feel light and airy, but creates a beautiful contrast. 3. Mix up vibrant colours The trick is to use colours of the same tonal palette, that have the same intensity, rather than partnering with paler shades – think bright orange with fuchsia pink or clash it with a bold yellow. 4. Use playful elements…

Having bought our house in the Wirral, Merseyside, in February 2019, we knew it would need quite a bit of TLC,’ says Monika. ‘The big draw was the area as we originally lived just a few streets away, and I always liked the idea of owning one of these lovely Victorian-style houses. As soon as this house came on the market, we jumped at the chance to buy it. It was perfect for us – just the right size, yet there was room to grow if we needed it, and we could both see it had so much potential. However, we were under no illusion that it needed some work and in my head I was already removing a few walls and upgrading some of the electrics and plumbing! As…

While Monika used faux wallpaper, panelling is a great way of perking up a plain space or covering up a less-than-lovely wall, adding instant character without spending a fortune. One of the most searched-for projects on Instagram, DIY wall panelling is fairly straightforward to do, especially if there are two of you to tackle it. Go for simple board-and-batten panelling created with slim lengths of MDF if you are a beginner. Do your calculations Measure the wall area to calculate how much MDF you’ll need. Work out the width and height of the area to be panelled. Then calculate how many verticals and horizontals of MDF you’ll need. Cut the panels Once you have all the measurements, next get the MDF cut to size. If you don’t have the equipment…