I realize that it has been a few weeks since I have posted something. My last post regarding my anxiety was when I realized I needed to slow down a bit in my entire life, not just work. In the past couple of weeks, I completed school, rested, took a last minute flight home to welcome my new nephew, and did a bit of decorating in my home.
I have been patiently waiting to paint our Master Bedroom, however, I had promised my step-daughter that when I finished school, I would give her bedroom a makeover. So as sad as I was to leave our bedroom for a bit, I was happy to make good on my promise.
Over time, I had been purchasing accessories for her room: bedding, cushions, storage, etc. We had a rough idea of a colour palette. Something more mature, and also flexible for her changing tastes over the years to come. I also wanted to make her narrow room feel bigger than it actually was, and less crowded.
Here’s a couple of pictures of the room before…
Of course, these pictures are not very well photographed, however, it shows the lack of storage and space, even with shelving everywhere. There was no real theme, just colours and items strewn about. It actually looked a bit like decor vomit all over the place.
Before we got started, I also had to have the “talk” with my step-daughter. No, not the kind of talk your thinking about – the hoarding talk. I explained to her that if she wanted a more mature room she had to be more mature about what she kept and how she kept it. Make sure things that aren’t used are removed from the room, ensure its always tidy and items put away. So far so good…after a week…
So now for the big reveal…
As mentioned in the title and above, the colour palette is neutrals, using grey and white. This allows us to be flexible in the future with the accent colour. For now, the accent is a mint/sea-foam green, which we both love.
We used an IKEA shelving unit to create a bench in the window area to maximize seating and storage. This makes a cozy place for reading and hanging out with friends. In addition, the desk moved closer to the window allows for more natural light while working.
The shelves are now uncluttered but allow for space to showcase art or trinkets in an uncluttered manner. Many of the decor items used are from Home Sense and have been bought over time while waiting to complete the space (see previous post on Patience with Interior Design Projects).
The bed was moved to the wall that the desk was previously on, allowing for a clear walking space from the door to the far wall, clothing storage and desk. To maximize space, we also exchanged the mirrored dresser for a taller clothes storage. The matching grey bedding and curtains, sheets and all cushions were all found at Home Sense. The furniture is all IKEA.
As you also noticed we painted stripes on the wall with the window. I’m sure you have heard before that wearing horizontal stripes can sometimes have an unflattering effect on your body. I actually wanted that effect on this wall. Since the room is quite narrow, I wanted to give the appearance of a bigger space, and the technique paid off. The colour and design are the perfect combination to make the room feel more airy and less cluttered.
As for the demanding client, I’m happy to report that my step-daughter is thrilled. She loves her new space and its more grown up atmosphere. And both my husband and I are happy that the second hardest space in the house now has a fresh, neutral coat of paint that shouldn’t need to be changed for some time.
Stay tuned for more upcoming projects.
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