|
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
| Decorative bedroom makeover |
| Working with a limited budget and the restrictions of rental properties, Tara decorates a bedroom with style. |
|
|
|
|
Our young couple rent a small one bedroom duplex and while they like the size of the bedroom they hate that it has no storage. What they desperately need is cupboard space — they don't even have anywhere to store their sheets and towels. Tara went along to improve the storage situation and inject a little colour into the room without breaking the budget or the lease!
Redecorating can be a problem when you rent. You can't paint the walls, hammer in nails and hooks or drill holes and spending a lot of money isn't feasible. However, there are ways around this problem and all it takes is a little creativity.
First we tossed out some of the clutter. The clothes rack is handy but messy so it is also removed. We replaced the rack with a free standing wardrobe which cost just $100 at a second hand store. Older style cupboards can be very narrow so remember to check the size before you buy it.
The existing pine wardrobe looks bland compared to our new one so it needs a personality of its own. Keeping with the Autumnal colour scheme, it is quickly spiced up with some pre-cut copper panels. For a great low sheen, treat the copper with steel wool and bees wax. The 2mm copper sheeting is attached using a generous amount of construction adhesive. For best results, lightly press on the panels then remove for a few minutes while the glue starts to set. Re-stick the copper panelling, smoothing away bubbles and bows.
Our budget doesn't allow for an authentic cast iron bedhead but a pair of old gates make a great substitute. Flaking paint can be removed from the gates using a wire brush. This clears the way for a galvanised iron primer and a coat of ivory paint, which contrasts with the white walls. The gates are then secured behind the bed. Remember to check the width and height of your bed before choosing the bedhead. Luckily there are two existing nails above the bed. These make the perfect hanging spot for some old aluminium fretworks painted burgundy to add a little colour.
A laundry hamper is next on the list and an old basket is perfect for the job. If it's too deep fit a drawstring bag inside and you won't have to fish around the bottom for odd socks.
The windows are covered with timber venetian blinds so curtains will be hung over the top. Picture rail hooks can be slipped over the top of the venetians and used to hang the new white voile and ribbon curtains.
For an interesting shoe rack, MDF planks are supported by large jars filled with pebbles. The number of shelves depends on the number of shoes that need storing. Old baskets and coloured cardboard boxes are also great for storage and can be stacked neatly away in a corner or on top of the cupboard.
Even the television is included in the makeover. It's put on a moveable timber trolley which has a storage shelf underneath that is great for magazines and boxes. The beauty of the trolley is it can be moved out of site when the telly is switched off.
|
Cost
Dark timber wardrobe $105.00
Laundry Basket $20.00
Hire of OAK tray mobile $30.00
Rattan trunk $89.95
Scatter cushions $99.85
Frames $25.00
Lamps $50.00
Assorted baskets (Salvation Army) $46.00
Basket (Penfolds) $20.00
Cardboard boxes with lid $9.00
Jars (6 @ $4.95 each) $29.70
Jars (2 @ $2 each) $4.00
Hardware (dowel, MDF, wire brush etc) $34.75
Picture rail hooks $15.00
Liquid nails $10.70
Gates for bedhead $40.00
Sponges and detergent $6.20
Spray varnish $8.00
Mr Sheen $8.45
Paper Towels $2.95
|
Total Cost
The total cost for the makeover was $654.55
|
More Info
Fabric supplied by Spotlight.
For nearest Spotlight store call toll-free 1800 656 256 or visit the website www.spotlight.com.au
Copper supplied by CMS Roofing Pty Ltd.
26c Mansfield Street
Rozelle NSW 2039
Ph: 02 9555 8944
Pebbles supplied by Australian Native Landscapes
Ph: 131 458
Bedhead gates supplied by The Second Hand Building Centre
432b West Botany Street
Rockdale NSW 2216
Ph: 02 9567 1322
Fax: 02 9597 1782
Paint supplied by DULUX
Ph: 132 525
|
Disclaimer
All Fact Sheets and other material on the Our House website are provided as a general information service only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for the advice of a properly qualified tradesman. Neither ninemsn nor its licensors (including the Nine Network) assume or accept any responsibility for, and will not be liable for the accuracy or appropriate application of any information whatsoever in any Fact Sheet or other material on the Our House web site. Your use of the Our House web site is governed by this disclaimer and the ninemsn's Terms of Use.
|
|
|
|
|
