It’s time consuming, it increases stress and it tests your patience BUT the first look of a redone room, corner or house is just so satisfying. It makes everything worth it. If you have been waiting for some inspiration and motivation to change a part of your house, these makeovers will do the job!
The first rule of refreshing a space is keeping it simple. Refurbish things you easily can and keep a picture of your dream makeover with you at all times. We all need a physical reminder, sometimes. All the best!
1. Every corner has a purpose, find it and you’ll be a makeover guru
By Ashley Elaine of modernly_you
Ashley bid farewell to the drab bird wallpaper and welcomed muted tones and earthy browns. Now tell us, wouldn’t you want to sip coffee in this beautiful corner? In case you’d like to clone this one, the walls are painted in Benjamin Moore Super White with additional accents of grey to amplify the effect of natural light.
2. The heart is where the food is. Let’s make it gorgeous.
By Courtney Equall of girlandgrey
The kitchen has the potential to become the heart of your house (which is what happened with this makeover!). The wood finished cabinets were replaced with chalk-finish dark hilltop green paint and brass handles. A vintage look without going all out. Add shelves with potted plants and you could spend an entire day in this kitchen.
Get the same look:
Choose a color scheme that is dramatically different than the current combination. Open corners and discard things you don’t need.
3. A home that went from dull to fab
By Erin Gates of elementstyle
The master bedroom was updated with a huge bed standing on four pillars, tufted bed rest at the back, and mixed vintage and modern pieces to accentuate the whole look.
Get the same look:
When you are redoing the entire house, it definitely takes more time. We suggest putting your ideas on paper and reworking on the model you have imagined. For smaller changes, you can redo the colour palette, add more accessories and open up closed spaces.
4. And then the fireplace got a makeover!
By Emily of 1930home
The difference lies in the details and this fireplace makeover tells you why. Upgraded in a solid blue and with a rustic shelf, it now has character and is a beautiful art corner. Emily wanted a vibrant vibe and just a few changes made the space brighter.
Get the same look:
This look works wonders for small corners, a wall or an attic. To get the ball rolling, you can define the purpose of the space and choose a colour theme that is different from the whole house.
5. From cluttered to minimalistic – the journey is fulfilling
By Brittney Williamson of twineandtrowelhome
Fireplaces are most often the focal point of any home. But it’s also a space that tends to be either cluttered or drab. Brittney transformed the space by clearing the area and going with muted shades. Not only does it look classy, but the unfinished white paint gives it an elegant and artistic vibe.
Get the same look:
Opt for refurbished furniture and DIY options when you are recreating this look. We also recommend preparing a mood board of styles that appeal to you before you get to work.
6. Let the light flow
By Beth Light of 1111lightlane
This before and after inspiration is ideal for someone who doesn’t want a major makeover. As they say, small changes can have a big impact. Change the colour theme, replace lights and add accessories that add character to the space.
The cabinets and counters in this kitchen got a chic monochrome update and the homeowner improved it with fresh fronts and walls coated with Benjamin Moore’s White. They are now in good shape and more organized.
Get the same look:
We recommend working what you have – colour, furniture and accessories. The layout remains the same but you can refresh the area with ergonomic chairs, potted plants and storage shelves.
7. A bold step takes you from traditional to modern
By Sarah Gunn of sarahgunnstyle
Dark gray cabinets and high chairs aren’t the best way to start the morning. To give this kitchen a more inviting vibe, Sarah replaced the chairs with contemporary stools, soft blue cabinets and a charming white counter. The golden lights perfectly complement the brown hue of the chairs.
From a study to a lovely sitting space. Who wouldn’t want to curl up with a book here? Sarah replaced the table with a cushioned bench that also doubles up as a storage space. The natural light pouring in from the windows makes it a wonderful spot to start your mornings.
Get the same look:
Soft pastels work well when you are attempting to change the vibe of a place. Replace old, heavy furniture with modular pieces and let natural light pour in.
8. Backyard patio transformation: from an eyesore to an oasis
By Lauren Vandiver Green of vandifair
This is a clear example of a monochromatic, poorly lit patio that’s now morphed into a bright, exotic cabana. The dainty lights, huge table, wooden gate, tropical plants, printed carpet, outdoor couch, and white pebbles are creating the patio of your dreams.
Get the same look:
Outdoor spaces are more difficult to transform because there is just so much you can do! We suggest starting small and letting your idea take shape slowly. All-weather furniture and furnishings are highly recommended.
9. Breathe life into your living room
Instagram Handle: em_henderson (Emily Henderson)
The living room is where you spent the most time, make sure it’s your refuge. Emily brought in a comfortable couch, a contemporary coffee table and a potted plant that deserves all the attention (it’s gorgeous). The white and brown combination definitely makes the room look bigger.
After removing the carpet, the staircase turned into a well-lit area with clean lines. The sitting space takes the transformation a notch higher.
Get the look:
Transform your staircase wall by adding family portraits or art that you love. A bench or a cozy reading corner is another great idea.
Words of wisdom
Transforming old spaces takes time but the journey is creatively satisfying and we promise it’s an addictive process. If you are unsure, start small and let the results drive you to recreate and experiment.