Forget the decor, this living room got a serious storage makeover
It's the key feature that ensures the rest of the room can shine
Flicking through paint charts, wallpaper samples and interior magazines is the fun part of planning your dream scheme, but dare we say there's one more very important point to consider? Yes folks, storage is the key to ensuring your room not only looks super stylish but stays tidy, streamlined and functional too.
Whether you're at the beginning stages of a new room makeover or are looking to update your existing scheme, factoring in some easy storage ideas can turn your room from messy to dressy in a flash – and the makeover we're about to show you is a case in point.
Living room makeover
Isobel Boulton, 28, and Alex Lindfield, 30, moved into their London-based two-bedroom flat three years ago, and were keen to change their living room to make it more their style.
'The room was lovely,' says Alex, 'but it didn't have any storage and had wonky walls, plus it was very industrial, with a huge light that took over the ceiling. We wanted the room to feel simple but modern.'
Before
The couple made do for a while, placing freestanding furniture pieces in the alcoves either side of the fireplace, but it wasn't the chic look they envisioned, so brought on Bespoke Carpentry to help them.
After
Now, built-in cupboards utilise the full width of both alcoves, hiding away clutter and giving the couple a counter on which to stand their TV and various decorative objects.
'We chose Bespoke Carpentry London to create the cupboards and floating shelves either side of the fireplace, and it really helps frame the room,' says Alex. 'It's also given us much more storage and we can showcase our ornaments on the shelves, which we love.'
Get the Ideal Home Newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.
'The work in total only took a few days and the team were great – so quick and tidy. It’s really transformed the space, especially being in a Victorian terrace where storage is limited!'
The storage may have made a huge difference, but that wasn't the only way the couple updated the room, adding in a sofa from Bo Concept, and a coffee table from Marks & Spencer.
'We also wanted to introduce more light into the space and make it feel spacious,' says Alex, 'so having oversized mirrors helps to bounce light.'
In the back corner of the room, the couple added in a cabinet from Ikea to add even more storage. 'I upcycled this unit so it has rattan on the doors after seeing the idea on Instagram,' says Alex. 'It was super simple to transform the cabinet into something different, and it's now a more elevated piece to hero in our living room.'
A half-height paint effect completes the look, with the lower part of the walls painted in a chalky-finish black paint from Rustoleum. 'I swear by this paint,' says Alex. 'It’s so durable and looks great.'
We couldn't agree more.
Shop the look
Laurie Davidson is a professional stylist, writer and content creator, who lives and breathes interiors. Having worked for some of the UK’s leading interior magazines, styled homes up and down the country and produced sets for TV shows, adverts and top brands, it’s safe to say Laurie has had a pretty exciting career. Find her on Instagram at @lifeofaninteriorstylist or over at lauriedavidson.co.uk
-
Disco pumpkins are the latest trend taking over social media - how to get the look in time for Halloween
Release your inner disco diva this Halloween
By Kezia Reynolds
-
Experts are urging homeowners to grow moss in pots to get rid of dust and moisture over winter - this is how to do it
Moss is Mother Nature’s free air purifier
By Lauren Bradbury
-
This fridge purifier made me realise I'd been keeping my fridge at the wrong temperature for years - it's been a gamechanger
It banishes bad smells AND extends the shelf life of my fruit and veg...it's safe to say I was impressed
By Rebecca Knight