One of the most impactful ways to transform a room is by painting the walls. But, it can be hard to know what color to go for, right?

In a recent Instagram reel, Queer Eye star and interior designer Bobby Berk delved into shades that are worth trying — but the one that he said was his top pick was black. He said in the video, "If you've watched Queer Eye, you know painting a wall black is one of my favorite things. It's really chic — look how beautiful it makes everything." I've asked interior designers why it works so well and how to bring it into your own home.

If you're looking to bring the latest interior paint color trends into your home, moody hues like black are worth reaching for.

Whether you go for black as an feature wall color or throughout an entire room, the depth and contrast it creates are unparalleled.

“I've seen firsthand how black walls make furniture and decor pop while giving off an air of elegance,” says Ryan Fitzgerald, design expert and owner of Raleigh Realty. “In my experience, black works wonders in adding versatility to a space.”

He adds that it serves as the perfect neutral backdrop that enables other textures, metals, and colors to stand out.

“I also think that black walls can make a dramatic statement and help other details in a room pop,” agrees Aaron Alway, interior designer at Black Label Design Group. “However, black paint requires careful consideration of lighting, trim, and decor to avoid a dark, dreary space.”

He continues, “In my own home, I painted an accent wall in my living room black but kept the other walls light gray. The contrast creates visual interest while still allowing natural light to brighten the room.” If you like the black above, this is Lick's Black 01 Paint.

If you want to try painting your own walls black, Aaron recommends starting with an accent wall or painting black in a space with lots of windows or spotlights. “Black pairs well with gold or silver metals, jewel tones, and crisp whites,” he explains.

He also adds that keeping walls relatively empty or only using black cabinet ideas to help avoid an overburdened look.

When done right, black walls can transform a room into a moody retreat.

“But, as with any bold color choice, you must commit to it fully for the best results,” Aaron finishes by saying.

Want to learn more clever tricks from the Queer Eye star? We also love Bobby Berk’s decluttering hack and his plant watering hack.

I currently live in a rented home, and while I love the gorgeous sage green walls in my living room, the rest of the house is sadly a plain renter-friendly white.

I've been looking for ages for ways I can work around this in order to add color to my space, and I think I've found the perfect solution. TikToker @itsmeshelbyturner has gone viral for her genius hack of painting over peel-and-stick wallpaper, and designers agree that it's a smart way to avoid upsetting your landlord.

If you're looking for DIY ideas that you can do in a rental that are easy and will transform your space, this one is well-worth trying.

Painting over peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great idea for those who are looking to update their walls without the commitment of permanent wallpaper.

“It offers a cost-effective solution for those who want to redecorate frequently without incurring the expense of removing and installing new wallpaper each time,” says Jonathan Faccone, design expert and founder of Halo Homebuyers.

“I often recommend this method to my clients who are on a budget but still want to refresh their home's interior,” he continues.

If you want to try this at home, Jonathan suggests starting by properly cleaning and preparing the walls. “This may include using a mild detergent and water solution to remove any dirt or residue, as well as sanding down any rough spots or bumps on the wall surface.”

He suggests removing any outlet covers or switch plates before painting to ensure a clean and professional finish.

“My secret tip is using sandpaper or a sanding block (the Gator Sanding Blocks from Walmart are bestsellers), as this can help create a smoother surface for painting, as the peel-and-stick wallpaper may not be completely smooth,” Jonathan says.

He also recommends to make sure you use a fresh roll of wallpaper, as painting over damaged or peeling wallpaper can result in an uneven and unsatisfactory finish.

As well as picking on trend interior paint colors, the kind of paint you select also matters a lot.

“Pick high-quality acrylic latex paints, avoiding those with moisture, like matte finishes, which may make lifting worse,” explains Tony Hoang, design expert at What a Room.

He continues, “Opt for a satin or semi-gloss finish for durability, especially in high-traffic areas.”

Once you’ve applied this, make sure to add a clear topcoat, such as the Minwax Polycrylic from Amazon. “This will give it extra protection against peeling in places like kitchens and bathrooms that can be quite humid,” Tony adds.

Whether you're renting or just don't want to commit to painting your walls, this TikTok painted wallpaper hack is a total winner.

Want to carry on scoping out useful advice from the all-knowing app? These TikTok DIY fall decor ideas are so cute and perfect for this season. Or, make sure your home is chic and stylish by following TikTok design trends.

Painting bathroom tile is a task commonly undertaken by homeowners looking to update their bathroom without spending a fortune or having to put up with a load of disruption and mess involving stripping away existing tiles.

If this is a job that you fancy giving a go, make sure you get well prepared with the right tools for the job and a paint that is suitable for use on tile - you can't use just any old paint you have lying around and expect perfect results. 

We asked a range of decorating experts for their advice on how to do this job for the best possible finish for your bathroom tile ideas and the longest-lasting results - and the best news is that you could totally transform your bathroom in this way in just one weekend.

How to paint bathroom tile like a pro

You will no doubt be keen that you get the very best results for all your efforts and that is where our expert's advice is going to help. They have come up with everything from the perfect products for the job to how to prepare your existing tile for the best possible outcome. 

What you'll need to paint bathroom tile

Tools:

• Tack cloth - these Dura-Gold Superior Tack Cloths from Amazon are a great option and come in a pack of 12 
• Putty knife
• 120-grit sandpaper
• Drop cloth
• Paint tray
• Paint roller
• Paint brush
  

Materials:

• Trisodium phosphate
• Waterproof spackle (filler)
• Caulk
• Primer Epoxy or two-process paint
• Polyurethane sealer - try Shabby Chic Multi Surface Clear Coat Sealant from Amazon
• Masking tape

1. Prepare your existing tile for painting

As with so many small bathroom upgrades, the key to success tends to lie in putting in the right preparation work.

"When starting a tile painting project, you'll need a very clean and porous surface for the primer and paint to adhere to," says Michael Clarke, founder of Yardwork and Pulled. "Therefore it's best to start by giving the tile a thorough clean with a mixture of warm water and trisodium phosphate. Once you've cleaned the tile with this solution, you'll want to rinse it well with clean warm water and then dry completely with a tack cloth."

"Here’s a tip!" adds Baltimore-based licensed contractor Jay Sander. "To achieve the best results, use a solution of 1/4 cup trisodium phosphate per gallon of water."

SamaN TSP Eco Heavy Duty Cleanser and Degreaser from Amazon comes ready to use.

2. Make any necessary tile repairs

You will obviously want a perfect finish when it comes to your bathroom design and this means repairing any cracked or broken tile before you begin painting. 

"You'll want to repair any chipped or broken tiles with waterproof spackle (filler)," explains Michael Clarke. "Once you are finished with this step, the next step is to sand the tile with 120-grit sandpaper to remove any glazing on the tile, then rinse the area again with clean water and dry with a tack cloth." 

Finally, use your masking tape to cover the areas you don't want to be painted and lay your drop cloths over your floors and sanitaryware to protect them.

3. Prime the tile

"Perhaps the most important step before applying any paint is to prime the surface with two applications of primer that is formulated for tile," says Michael Clarke.

"It is critical to use a primer that is suitable for tiles," confirms Jay Sander. "It will ensure the paint adheres well. Remember, for better results, you must allow the primer to dry for at least 24 hours."

"Use a high-quality primer like XIM to create a paintable surface on the tiles," suggests Brandon Walker, Construction Manager at ASAP Restoration LLC.

Something like Rust-Oleum UMA Interior/Exterior Multi-purpose Water-based Wall and Ceiling Primer from Lowes would be perfect for the job.

It tends to be easiest to use a brush to apply your primer, but you could use a roller. Take time to look into the best paint rollers for the job as you want a smooth, even finish. 

4. Paint the tile

Now for the bit that will take your tile from shabby to super stylish right before your very eyes - applying your chosen paint. Make sure you take into account the bathroom color ideas you have used elsewhere in the space first. 

"Applying thin coats and allowing each coat to dry thoroughly, will provide the best results," advises Michael Clarke.

"You can use a brush or roller for this process," says Jay Sander. "Don't forget to cover both tiles and grout. Let the paint dry properly. If required, apply a second coat.

"It is critical to remember that before applying the next coat, you should let it dry for 6-8 hours. Repeat the same process every time you require a coat."

This Pro Grade- Paint Roller Set from Amazon offers great value for money. 

5. Apply a sealant

Your final step should be to seal your tile - this will ensure a longer-lasting finish and make your hard work worthwhile. If you have opted for real stone for your bathroom floor tile ideas you will also need to ensure they are properly sealed. 

"Add a layer of polyurethane sealer to protect your surface," suggests Michael Clarke.

"Though this step is optional, it is important to know that it can provide extra durability," points out Jay Sanders. "It is recommended for high-traffic areas."

Check out Miracle Sealants SEENPT6 511 Seal & Enhance Color & Gloss Enhancers from Amazon.

FAQs

What paint is best for tile?

Just as when painting walls, it is crucial that you use the right products for the materials you are working with and the room you are applying them in. 

"Epoxy or a two-process paint is best for tile applications as they are more durable and resistant to moisture and heat than other types of paint," says Michael Clarke.

"The primer is one of the most important steps, but after you’ve primed, Rostoleum makes a solid tub and tile paint," adds Brandon Walker.

You could also try Galitoon Tub and Tile Refinishing Kit from Amazon.

Is it a good idea paint bathroom tile?

While this is a quick way to get a bathroom makeover, it is not necessarily right for those after a more long-term solution and some professionals would advice against it. 

"In the best case scenario it won’t adhere for very long, and in the worst case it will harbor mold growth and cause rotting behind the tiles inside of the wall when water vapor can’t escape," warns Brandon Walker.

"The paint may peel over time, thus, it is not ideal for high-moisture areas like showers," adds Jay Sanders.

How long does it take to paint bathroom tile?

This is a great option for anyone looking for a really quick way to give their bathroom a new look - perhaps a temporary solution for homeowners who have just taken on a fixer-upper.

"The length of time it will take to paint over the tile will depend on how big of a tiled area you are trying to cover," says Brandon Walker. "Most bathrooms can be treated, prepped and primed in one day, and painted with finishing coats over the next two days depending on amount of coverage."

If your bathroom project has inspired you to give other rooms in your home a quick makeover in the same way it is well worthwhile looking into painting tiles elsewhere - such as in the kitchen.

If, on the other hand, you have decided rip out your old tiles and start again, it is time to look into how to choose bathroom tiles that will suit your particular space and look great for many years to come. 

When we purchased our Edwardian cottage we were in something of a desperate situation. We had moved from the cute, but quite compact, Victorian terrace we’d renovated, into a rental. We rushed our decision, thinking that this would be nothing more than a temporary stopgap. Big mistake. We ended up staying in that too-small paper-thin-walled house on a new development.

Both my husband and I grew up in old houses and love the history and character that ‘lived-in’ properties have. We took one look around this cottage that we still call home, built in 1915, and knew it had to be ours. 

The only thing was, we were a little limited budget-wise so were keen to save on house renovation costs wherever we could. We had to quite quickly become experts in the field of DIY renovation. I’m here to reveal which jobs were surprisingly easy and that you are probably quite capable of tackling, just like we did.

Easy DIY jobs that will save you money

There are loads of DIY house renovation jobs that are well within the capabilities of most people - we found that the key to success was researching what was involved thoroughly, getting prepared by ensuring we had all the necessary tools and materials to hand, and setting aside enough time for each task. Oh, and lots and lots of measuring - then measuring again!

1. Laying the engineered wood flooring

Who knew that installing an engineered wood floor was a job that could transform a house in a day? Seriously, when we set out, cutting and fitting the underlay, I had no idea that later that day I’d be admiring a finished floor. 

In our previous renovation, we’d laid an engineered wooden floor all wrong. Don’t misunderstand me, it was a beautiful floor, a rich walnut, but oh my, it was more than a little bouncy underfoot. 

That meant that I was a little dubious when it came to installing a floating engineered floor in our shiny new home. I needn’t have worried though. Turns out, if you prepare your subfloor properly and use a good quality underlay you’ll be just fine.

Our flooring was from Kahrs and is an engineered oak. It, like most of the best engineered wood flooring, has tongue-and-groove edges that simply fit together and we used a circular saw to cut the boards to length. 

This Bruce Frisco Natural Oak flooring from Lowes has a similar appearance.  

2. Fitting the wall paneling

I love timber wall paneling and was keen to introduce it into our living room design scheme to add a bit of interest. 

We were aiming for a modern country look throughout. There are lots of original features and little quirks that naturally lend character to the house so we introduced some more up-to-date features to work alongside these. This included looking into wall paneling ideas that would add a fresh finish to the space. 

In the living room, we stripped the walls right back to the bare brickwork as the plaster was in such bad condition, falling away. We had three of the walls plastered but chose one wall to fit the paneling. Rather than buying a kit, we bought pine boards with tongue and groove edges. 

We attached timber battens horizontally across the width of the wall before nailing the boards to these. 

Finally, we primed the boards and painted them a soft creamy gray - similar to Valspar’s Seashell Gray from Lowes.  

3. Building the stud walls

While adding two new extensions, we also totally remodeled the existing layout of this house to make it work better for us. This meant blocking up some doorways, knocking down some internal walls, and building some new stud walls.

If you are thinking of building a new stud wall, I’m here to tell you that this is a pretty straightforward task - although it is better if you can rope in a helper. 

To partially divide the dining room and snug, we built a four-foot-wide stud wall between the two.

We began by fitting a section of timber - often referred to as the floor plate - to the length of the floor that the new wall would cover. We used screws but you could use a nail gun if you prefer. Aim to get the screws or nails into the floor joists if you have them. We had a solid concrete floor so plugged and screwed directly into that, ensuring we didn't penetrate the damp-proof membrane. 

Next, we fitted a length of timber to the ceiling - the head plate. Again, you want to aim for the trusses or ceiling joists so you might need to go upstairs and lift a floorboard or two to find them. A stud finder such as the Mecurate Stud Finder Wall Scanner Sensor from Amazon will help here and can also alert you to the presence of pipework and wiring. 

Next are the wall studs - these should be fixed to the walls that the new wall is being built off between the floor and head plates. 

Then we fitted more studs between - at 600mm centers. To strengthen the whole structure we then fitted noggins (small horizontal pieces of timber) between the vertical studs.

Before fixing the drywall into place we ran in the electrics as we wanted an electrical outlet on the snug side of the wall. We also added in some insulation to make the new wall a little more soundproof. 

The whole thing was finished in around half a day.

4. Putting up drywall

To save on labor costs we decided to put up the drywall ourselves. Honestly, this is a job pretty much anyone could undertake although you’ll want to get someone to help you as large sheets of drywall are heavy and awkward, and holding them in place while fixing them up - particularly to the ceilings - is hard work.

To cut the drywall we used a drywall saw, but you can use a Stanley knife too. The Jorgensen Drywall Saw from Amazon would do the job well. 

You want to start at one corner of the wall you are covering and make sure that the end of the drywall sits midway across the stud it is being fixed to so that the next board can butt up to it. In areas where there was no stud to fix the drywall, we fitted noggins between studs. Make sure you use drywall screws designed for the job.

Once all the boards were in place we used drywall tape over the joins and then joint filler. We left the plastering to the pros but some homeowners do choose to look into how to plaster walls and decide to give it a go.

5. Fitting the push-fit plumbing

Plumbing was never a task I thought we’d be taking on ourselves and, in all honesty, this was a job where I played more of a support role to my husband who seems to have a knack for picking up new skills pretty quickly. 

There are now lots of products out there that make it far easier for DIYers to get to grips with plumbing - namely plastic push-fit connectors and pipework.

There are a number of brands that manufacture the push-fit system but we opted for JG Speedfit plastic pipe and fittings which you can buy from Amazon. The system works by securely grasping the pipe inserted with a toothed grip ring and sealing it with an o-ring seal. 

The use of inserts is also important, these are pushed into the pipe before inserting into the coupler. The benefits of using plastic pipe rather than copper are there are no expert plumbing skills involved such as soldering and you can also use longer sections to connect as they can be manipulated easier to fit. This makes the whole process quicker and more accessible to the DIYer. It’s also worth noting you can also use the push-fit system with copper pipe as well and can even get push-fit copper couplers.

We connected all the faucets for the bathrooms and kitchen sink using these systems and as a result, significantly reduced our new bathroom costs.

While the sense of achievement that you get from DIYing certain aspects of a home renovation is undeniable there are also a whole host of DIY jobs that aren't worth the effort in my opinion. Some things are just best left to the pros if you want a perfect final finish. 

Remodeling or renovating a bathroom is an exciting project that can result in a room that feels like a relaxing retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. That said, when carrying out my own project several years ago, I made some bathroom renovation mistakes that still annoy me to this day.

Ripping out your old suite and replacing it with a new one gives you the opportunity to get the space spot on. You can tailor it to your own exacting needs, whether this is a family bathroom you are working on, or a smart ensuite with no kids allowed.

If you are keen to avoid committing any bathroom remodeling mistakes that you’ll later regret, or that could cost you a considerable amount of money to put right, then you are in the right place. I’m here to share my biggest bathroom errors so your new space brings you nothing but happiness. 

5 bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid making

Renovating or remodeling any room of the house comes with its own set of potential pitfalls, but in the spaces that need to fulfill a primarily practical role, at the same time as looking good, even greater care needs to be taken. 

Failing to read up on bathroom remodel tips and making even the slightest wrong decision could mean that rather than being a pleasure to use, the space that you go to both refresh and unwind instead leaves you feeling frustrated.  

1. Placing the shower next to the window

I love the shower in our family bathroom. I spent a long time looking into how to choose a shower that would meet all our needs for the family bathroom. We opted for a digital model that can be operated from both a panel on the wall as well as controls within the showering area, meaning you never need to step into a stream of water that is too hot or too cold. 

However, the placement of said shower just doesn’t work, and, knowing what I know now, I would have located it on the adjacent wall instead.

As a shower that is mounted over the bathtub, we only really had two walls to choose from - a 50/50 chance of getting it right. But we got it wrong. 

The bathtub runs along the wall with the main window, sitting just below it. This means that the timber frame is subjected to a torrent of water on a daily basis. Although it is painted, it needs mopping down after anyone uses the shower or bath and has had to be repainted about a dozen times. Lesson? Keep solid timber well away from water.

Incidentally, we used a window film much like GILA Frosted Adhesive Privacy-control Window Film from Lowes for the window in question so as not to expose ourselves to passers-by every morning.  

2. Failing to consider lighting in the shower cubicle

While we’re on the subject of showers, let me tell you about the shower cubicle in the shower room. It is tucked into a corner of the room and we built a stud wall to act as the third side, with a heavy shower curtain to contain water. 

It is fully tiled and the power of this shower is almost flattening, which I rather like. So far, so good.

However, the shower room in question has no windows which, in itself, doesn’t cause any issues as the extractor fan works brilliantly to suck out steam.

The problem is this - we didn’t realize how dark the shower cubicle would be. We have one central light in this room. Once the shower curtain is pulled across, whoever is enjoying the deluge of water is doing so pretty much in the dark.

This is obviously not ideal and we plan on installing a new light here at some point. Although not disastrous, the disruption and mess it’ll cause could have been avoided with a bit of extra planning. I’d love a grid of four of these NICOR Lighting oil-rubbed bronze Lexan Shower Trim from Wayfair.

3. Not installing underfloor heating

In both the shower room and the bathroom in our home we have heated towel warmers. These do a pretty good job of keeping the towels dry and warm - when they’re on. In the summer, when the central heating is off, they serve as nothing more than rails to hang things on. We should have opted for electric towel warmers that could still run when the house heating is off (mistake number six I guess…)

However, the main heating mistake we made was not to install underfloor heating. The shower room is located on the ground floor, where we have solid concrete sub- floors. We have limestone floor tiles and failed to put any significant amount of insulation beneath them - which basically means the whole floor is like a great big refrigerator to stand on. It would have been so easy for us to fit electric mat heating when the space was stripped back to its bare bones. 

Upstairs, while the floor doesn’t cause the same frozen toes issues, it does seem to regularly resemble a swimming pool thanks to the amazing abilities our two teenagers have for spreading water absolutely everywhere, even when just washing their hands.

Fitting underfloor heating would have meant the floor would dry out quickly, without the need for a full mop every time one of the kids emerges from the room. As it is, I keep a stock of these Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths to hand.

4. Scrimping on the size of the bathroom sink

In the shower room, we were really limited on space as we also use it as a utility room, with the washing machine hidden away in a full-height cupboard.

We have a spacious (albeit badly lit) shower cubicle, a toilet, and a bathroom sink. We decided we could save space by ignoring all the advice on how to choose a bathroom sink and opted for a teensy tiny model. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but this thing is barely big enough to fit both hands in and, when guests come to stay, this is the bathroom they use. We could have fitted a much wider and deeper model in the space and it needn’t have projected any further out. Something like the Dowell Wall Mounted Bathroom Sink from Walmart would have been ideal.

5. Choosing white grout instead of a dark shade

I need to share a secret with you. I hate grout. I know that sounds dramatic, but it’s true. I realize that it is necessary if you want to use tile for your walls and floors but boy does it take some looking after if you want it to stay looking good.

I know how to clean tile grout, but why oh why did we choose white for the family bathroom? Any other color would have been better. Instead, every couple of weeks we have to spray the entire shower area with a bleach solution, leave it for an hour or so, and then rinse it off. Yes, this brings it up pretty sparkling, but it’s a pain.

Then there is the fact that, over time, the grout cracks and looks a little worse for wear, meaning it has to be chipped out and replaced.

In the shower room, we opted for a dark gray grout which hides a multitude of sins. We also kept the grout lines much thinner, plus there are fewer of them as we have a very large format tile - this all helps.

Next time around I think we’ll opt for shower panels instead and I love the Mansfield NexTile from Lowes which gives the appearance of tile without the grout lines. 

Although we made mistakes, there are also lots of things I love about our bathrooms. My favourite bits are the blue and white floor tiles, the light above our mirror that my husband made and the color of our shower room - proof that small bathroom ideas don't all have to be safe and neutral. 

Armed with the best DIY small space storage ideas you can feel confident that those clutter hotspots will be a thing of the past in as little as a day.

Storage space can be a real issue in smaller homes, but this is exactly where it is more important than ever that everything has a place - and the good news is that by thinking a little creatively, there is no need to opt for an expensive, bespoke option to house all your belongings neatly.

We asked DIY and home improvement experts for their favorite DIY projects when it comes to storage hacks for compact spaces, from those that now repurpose redundant containers to ways of transforming overlooked or wasted spaces within your home into stylish and useful areas to stash away your belongings. 

DIY small space storage ideas anyone can tackle

The best storage ideas for a small house need to be innovative and well planned out to ensure that you are using your space wisely and in a way that means the clutter you find building up on a daily basis is dealt with. 

"I have really enjoyed exploring DIY storage strategies," says Marshall Webber, CMO of Stor-It. "I see so many people using space insufficiently, so I think it is always great to find ways to optimize the home based on individual and family needs."

Many of the ideas here don't involve you pulling out the toolbox either, so whether you fancy getting to know your electric drill a little better or prefer the idea of a project that requires nothing more than items you have hanging around anyway, there will be something for you. 

1. Make use of alcoves or wasted corners

Corners of rooms and nooks, crannies and alcoves can all be put to good use as somewhere to slide in extra storage. That might be in the form of easy-to-install shelves, or perhaps you might get lucky and find a cabinet or shelving unit that fits exactly into the space. 

If you are feeling a little more ambitious with your alcove ideas it is usually fairly simple to build in cabinets - after all, three sides of your new unit will already be in place. You will need to secure timber battens to the walls to support the top of the cabinet and the new doors that will be attached to the front. You are then free to paint the new units in your choice of paint color and dress them up with fancy handles. 

This is exactly what was done to create this handy storage unit - the door was bought from eBay but the rest of the work was carried out on a DIY basis.

We love the Marigold Mushroom Knob Multipack from Wayfair for customizing cabinet doors. 

2. Don't underestimate how handy hanging rails are

The walls and ceilings are your best friends when it comes to finding storage ideas for small kitchens - and hanging racks can be used for anything, from pots and pans in the kitchen to accessories such as belts and hats in the bedroom. 

Hanging racks can be fashioned from all kinds of items, including laundry drying racks, squares of metal mesh, or even an old ladder, suspended from the ceiling. 

In this small apartment, the owners suspended a metal grid from the ceiling using sturdy chains - they can now hang all their pots and pans from here, freeing up cupboard space elsewhere. 

It isn't just the kitchen that can benefit from a hanging rack either.

"Install hanging storage systems or overhead shelves in the garage, and laundry room, to store rarely used items," advises Evelina Juzėnaitė, principal interior designer at Planner 5D.

3. Fit folding surfaces to the walls

In a small home, anything that folds or slides out of the way when not in use is unbelievably useful. Although it might sound like a complicated task to fit something like this on a DIY basis, there is actually no reason why it has to be. 

"Consider a wall-mounted folding desk or a fold-down laundry station for flexible workspaces," suggests Meaghan Kessman, professional home organizer at Meaghan Kessman Home Organization.

Self-confessed 'DIY addict' Stacy Risenmay charts all her projects on her website notjustahousewife.com and one of our favorites is this DIY fold-down desk she made for her nephew's bedroom - perfect for anyone after small office storage ideas.

She built a simple box frame to attach to the wall then made a desktop from plywood which she connected to the frame using small butt hinges. A corkboard fits snugly inside, along with some handy shelves. 

If you are not quite as confident of your DIY skills, you could buy a fold-down desk kit like this ARTETHYS Wall Mounted Fold Down Desk from Amazon.

4. Repurpose old storage items

If you thought your storage jars were only for pantry storage ideas involving filling them with dried goods and piling up them on shelves, think again - there are so many other ways to use them. 

"Turn mason jars into rustic organizers and repurpose old drawers as unique wall shelves," suggests Meaghan Kessman.

A brilliant idea is to take your old jars and transform them into magnetic storage containers for anything from spices to your smaller DIY bits and pieces such as screws and drill bits. 

"Consumers have become more focused on organization and storage for very specific purposes, likely inspired by the array of organization-themed shows," reflects Amber Shay, national design director at Meritage Homes. "For example, organizing everyday items, like snacks and supplies, into specific containers in the pantry. We’ve also seen storage being used as a decorative element lately, with containers in fun colors and designs to match the décor scheme."

Do what Linda Ly from Garden Betty did and begin by fixing a metal board or sheet to the wall or underside of a wall cabinet or shelf. You can then glue a good strong magnet into the underside of the lid of each jar so that it will hold tight to the sheet. Et voila! Your countertops are clutter-free and your bank balance looks healthy thanks to your thrifty idea. 

TRYMAG Neodymium Magnets from Amazon are strong and come in a pack of 60.

5. Get organized with a cost-effective pegboard

Pegboards of all shapes and sizes are brilliant for turning into storage spots on a DIY basis, whether you are after utility room storage ideas or a way of housing all your crafting bits and pieces.

"Pegboards are a really practical solution to providing more storage without taking up any more space," says Chelsea of Making Manzanita who designed and made this gorgeous giant pegboard wall. "Because this is mounted on the wall, it gives the room a little more interest, safely stores those essential craft items out of reach from little hands, and keeps the clutter at bay!"

She used an inexpensive MDF peg board as a template for her sheet of plywood which she drilled holes in for the pegs, painted, and adorned with a selection of hanging storage items. 

"Pegboards are incredibly versatile for small spaces," says Ornella Guerrero Bianco,
content marketing specialist at Fixr.com. "They can be used in kitchens to hang pots and pans, freeing up cabinet space, or in cleaning closets to organize supplies. Painting the pegboard can also add a decorative and personalized feature to the room."

6. Put your under-stairs space to better use

If there is one space that often seems to get underused it is the area beneath a staircase - yet it can offer so much in the way of storage and it is an easy DIY project to fit it out with all kinds of cabinets, units, or open shelving. 

"Convert under-stair space into a custom closet or install pull-out drawers for hidden storage," suggests Meaghan Kessman.

"Install built-in drawers or shelves, create a closet or pantry from the area if space allows, or even design a workspace or playroom," adds Marshall Webber.

If you are wondering how to create under-stairs storage, be inspired by this project. Within the renovation of her terraced house, @ourwoodfield3storey, owner Vicky transformed her under-stair space with a selection of built-in cupboards and shelving units which they painted in a beautiful shade of frosted sage.

Valspar paint, in Northern Jupiter, from Lowes, is a similar color. 

7. Fit a hanging door rack to use vertical space

When space is tight you need to look up and down to find some of the sneakiest storage spots - in fact one of the biggest small space organization mistakes is to fail to make the most of your vertical space. 

"The easiest way to maximize storage in a small space is to use as much vertical space as possible," advises David Silva, an interior designer at home remodeling company HomRem LLC. "There’s usually a lot of wasted space around our home like under the bed, above kitchen cabinets, and even between our existing storage shelves. The key is to maximize these spaces without getting too cluttered."

One of David's favorite ways to do this is to fit a hanging door rack. 

"Adding door racks is almost like adding a new set of shelves to your home," says David. "They’re best used on the side of doors that aren’t often seen, like the inside of a closet or pantry. They could work in any other door, like for bathrooms and bedrooms, but you’ll risk having a cluttered-looking space if you use them in very visible areas. They usually come in a basket style, but I find the fabric version to be more versatile and more appealing to the eye."

The example here was crafted by the creator, producer, and host of the award-winning DIY home design show Engineer Your Space, Isabelle. She made her own over-the-door hooks using 5″ x 7″ aluminum step flashing sheets which she then secured to a wooden frame to house all her DIY essentials. 

Start with something like Amerimax Silver Aluminum Step Flashing from Lowes if you want to give this a go.

8. Fix floating shelves on walls and in corners

Fixing floating shelves to the wall is a job well within the capabilities of most DIYers out there - particularly if you can rope in someone to help hold them up while you fix them into place. 

"You can transform unused nooks, alcoves, or corners into functional storage with custom-built shelves or floating corner shelves," explains Meaghan Kessman.

"These types of shelves can be placed in any room for storing books, plants, decorative items, and more," agrees Evelina Juzėnaitė. "Such storage will not take up floor space either."

First, familiarize yourself with how to install a floating shelf. Some come with all the fixings and instructions needed, but if you are using something like reclaimed planks you will need to purchase fixings separately. If you are drilling into drywall, make sure you use anchor plugs.

QEEIG Bathroom Floating Shelves from Amazon offer a similar look to the ones here. 

9. Make the most of a view with a window seat

Window seats not only look beautiful in pretty much any room, but they also give you the perfect perch to sit and enjoy views over your surroundings - they are particularly well suited to anyone after bay window ideas. A window seat can also be constructed to incorporate lots of useful storage, whether that is through a simple hinged lid or by the addition of box shelves beneath. 

You have two options here. If you want to keep things nice and simple, you could invest in a low, horizontal storage bench the same width as your window - something like the DINZI LVJ Shoe Storage Bench with Cushion from Amazon - then dress it up with your own pillows and throws. 

However, for a more tailored approach, you could consider building a simple frame with vertical dividing shelves then top the whole thing off with a cozy cushion, as in this example from Hair Nails & Interiors.

10. Make space for tall bottles inside cabinet doors

If you have a small kitchen you want to ensure you are getting the very most out of every inch of space - and this is where DIY solutions can save the day.

Don't waste the opportunity to incorporate some storage onto bare walls - they can house all kinds of items that it can be hard to fit onto standard shelves. This is also one to consider if you are wondering. 

Here, Isabelle, of Engineer Your Space, who was struggling for countertop space, made some slimline custom shelving for her olive oil. She used 1″x3 ″ pieces of timber which she screwed together before securing to the wall with small metal brackets. Something like these L Bracket 90 Degree Angle Metal Brackets from Amazon would do the trick. 

She finished the whole thing off with a white stain. 

FAQs

What is the best way to make use of underbed space?

If you have space under the beds in any room of your home then make sure you look into how to organize under the bed to ensure you are using it wisely. There are so many options here. 

"If you have a bedframe, you have a lot of unused area under your bed!" says David Silva. "This is an easy spot for blankets, clothes, shoes, or other items that can fit in a thin, flat space. And of course, you don’t have to leave these things on the floor. You can use dedicated under-bed storage containers to keep them protected. Just make sure you measure the height of your bedframe first."

"I would recommend investing in a wooden frame box, with wheels," says Sarah Blevins, design specialist and product operations manager at Villa. "Soft side boxes tend to deform when overstuffed and can make it more difficult to pull out from under a bed or couch. Sturdy sides will help prevent you from overfilling, and the wheels will make accessing the bin easier."

These Rolling Bamboo Under Bed Storage Containers from Amazon would work well. 

How can you make more space within cabinets?

There is often no need to build new shelves, cabinets and rails to get more out of your kitchen storage ideas - you might just find you need to rethink your existing units a little.

"Shelf risers act as storage within your storage," explains David Silva. "Even if you fill every shelf of every cabinet, bookshelf and pantry in your home, you’ll still have some empty space above some of your shorter items. The easiest way to fix this is to add a shelf riser, which basically lets you add an extra shelf to your existing storage.

"They come in a variety of styles to fit your needs, and I always recommend the adjustable versions since they can adapt to your needs."

"A lazy Susan in your kitchen cabinets can make every item easily accessible. This rotating shelf design optimizes cabinet space, ensuring that every ingredient and kitchen tool is easy to access," suggests Ornella Guerrero Bianco. 

"To maximize your home’s storage potential, target the empty wall space in your closets and pantries," she continues. "Adding floating shelves or standing shelving units can increase your storage capacity, giving you more room for clothes, boxes and pantry items."

Take a look at Amazon Basics Stackable Metal Kitchen Storage Shelves to increase your kitchen cabinet capacity. 

If you have been left feeling inspired to get creative with your storage, take a look at these handy storage jar ideas - they are a brilliant way to pack in more space for all your essentials without spending money on expensive new solutions. 

A fluted panel can make all the difference between a tired, lackluster kitchen and a shiny new-looking one, even with a tight budget. Best of all, you can do it in over the weekend.

As anyone with a tired kitchen knows, renovations can be pricey and disruptive, so affordable DIY alternatives are always a win. My fluted panel DIY tutorial makes for an achievable DIY project with stunning results.

As a DIY blogger and interior stylist, I spend a great deal of time sourcing affordable materials that can be used to transform interior spaces and a really struck gold when I discovered fluted particle board sheets can be used as wall panels, including for nifty DIY kitchen ideas.

Installing a fluted panel in your kitchen

Popping one of these specially carved particleboard under your kitchen countertops is a home DIY project DIY novices can tackle successfully, with very little in the way of tool or materials. The key aspects include sourcing a large fluted panel and getting your hands on some reliable glue, such as Liquid-Nails, available on Amazon, because it is very effective and low-solvent.

Let's take a look at how I transformed my kitchen peninsula, although you could easily adapt this project to suit a kitchen island if you have one).  

You will need:

• Fluted panel (particle board or similar): Amazon sells slat panels, which can be installed side by side if you can't find a giant sheet of fluted board to cut to size.
• Caulking gun: I like the Bates Caulking Gun from Amazon because it's cost-effective and looks very similar to mine in the UK. When choosing yours, don't sweat it. Caulking guns don't need to be over complicated or expensive.
• Grab adhesive and caulk
• Saw: a handsaw like the QYQRQF 14 inch handsaw is light, affordable and Amazon's Choice, which means shoppers rate it, and hardly return it, plus it's usually available for quick delivery.
• Sanding sponges: are perfect for this DIY because they fit snugly to the fluted profile when you apply a little pressure and can be picked up cheaply.
• Primer
• Paint and paintbrush

All prices included in this article were correct at time of publication.

1. Plan and prepare

Measure your space and determine the best size fluted panel to order. By ordering the largest size my supplier stocked, I could cover the side of my worktops with a single fluted panel. This meant no joins would be required — perfect for a seamless look. 

The fluted panels came with the fluting in vertical or horizontal format. I opted for vertical to balance the length of the worktops but you choose the one that is aesthetically pleasing to your eye. Horizontal fluting can make a space look wider than it is and would work particularly nicely in small kitchens.

When your fluted panel arrives, unwrap it and stand it in position to check it fits the area you'll be gluing it to, and check fluting is in the correct direction. 

If you have any trouble sourcing fluted panels or they are not in your budget, you could easily make your own by purchasing a large sheet of particle board and cutting the grooves using a Rockler Router Fluting Jig, available from Amazon. 

This method would give you the ultimate freedom in selecting the width and depth of the fluted texture and allow you to create unlimited fluted panels in the future. It's pretty handy because it turned out, this fluted home decor is an addictive business! 

Step 2: Cut the fluted panel

Template the cut line by marking the exact position of the countertop along the back of the fluted panel. It’s important to stand the fluted panel the right way, as the fluting is only on one side. Templating in this way ensures you account for any unevenness or variations in the floor level over a long distance that wouldn't be easily picked up when measuring at intervals. 

Once you’ve marked the template of the countertops, remove the panel and lie it flat, ideally outside on a dry surface. I raised the fluted panel off the floor to make cutting easier and clamped it in position to prevent movement during the process.

I then used my power saw to cut along the line I had marked. As the panel was over 6.5 feet long, it would have taken a longer time by hand. 

If you're looking for a jigsaw, Black and Decker and Bosch are good brands and can be picked up at Target, such as this Bosch JS260 corded jigsaw. Be sure to wear protective eye-wear and a mask if using an electric saw to avoid injury or inhalation of the finer dust it'll release into the air.

Step 3. Sand the fluted surface

The fluted side of the panel can be quite rough from where it has been cut so I like to use a soft sanding sponge to remove any surface fibers and get a smooth finish. 

Sanding sponges are ideal because they adapt to the surface of the fluting so none is missed as it would be with a rigid sander. The Pro Grade Precision Sanding Sponge from The Home Depot is a great choice, as it's flexible and good for sanding to a fine, smooth finish.

Step 4: Prepare the surface for the fluted panel

Apply grab adhesive, such as Liquid Nails for interior use, available on Amazon, to the surface you are attaching the fluted panel to. 

Cut the end of the nozzle close to the cartridge to create a large exit hole as this makes applying the glue less labor-intensive. Don’t do this for projects where you require a small, neat accurate bead of product, but it works fine in this scenario.

I used a caulk gun and large cartridges of grab adhesive as they are more cost-effective for larger or repeated DIY projects. 

Step 5: Install the fluted panel

Stand the fluted panel back in position and apply firm pressure to attach it to the surface. Move the panel from one side to the other to remove any air behind the panel and spread the grab adhesive. 

I then used a hand saw to cut off any excess particle board ensuring that the fluted panel and the top of the countertop are completely flush. 

Step 6: Caulk the joins

The next step in my makeover was to create a seamless join with the countertops. As I wanted to create a waterfall kitchen island look, I knew the join would be very much on display, so it needed to be perfect. 

I ensured this by applying a bead of decorator’s caulk where the panel met the countertop and smoothing it over. You don't have to worry about smoothing too much as you'll sand the join later, but I recommend using a palette knife or skimming spreader for ease if you have one.

Alternatively, a firm piece of cardboard or plastic (perhaps from the fluted sheet's packaging to reduce wastage) can be used to smooth the caulk by running it along the join, scooping up any excess caulk and creating a level surface as it goes.

Allow the glue behind the panel and the caulk along joins to dry completely. It's best to check the product for manufacturer's guidelines, but 12 hours is usually a good drying estimate under normal DIY conditions. 

Once dry, I sanded the caulk for a seamless finish and went a step further. I applied a layer of microcement over the microcement countertops to completely cover the join. 

If you have overhanging countertops, as is the norm, you won't need to worry about the join in quite the same way, as you can butt the panel tightly up and under the lip of the countertops. 

I still recommend applying a bead of caulk for a neat finish if it will be visible from any angle, so be sure to buy one that you can paint over (silicone caulk repels paint making it very tricky to paint over) or that dries in the desired colour, such as the Red Devil paintable white decorator's caulk from Amazon.

Step 7: Prime the fluted panel

Priming particle board or plywood is essential because they are very absorbent materials and will soak up a lot of paint otherwise. Priming also serves to create a great base for the paint to sit on and will result in a more professional finish. 

Apply at least two coats of primer with a brush and allow to dry. Zinsser primer, available on Amazon and most hardware stores, is a good buy as can also be used for painting IKEA furniture to, which I did when I completed my IKEA BILLY bookcase hack.

Step 8: Paint the fluted panel

The final step is to paint the newly-attached fluted panel with an appropriate paint. Rustoleum ultra matte interior chalked paint available at Walmart is similar to the matte kitchen wall paint I used here in the UK. Kitchen paint is scrubbable so it makes a good choice for this busy and messy part of the home.

If you have any leftover kitchen cabinet paint, that's also great for extra durability. 

Apply two coats of your chosen paint and allow it to dry fully before touching the fluted panel. I found a brush easier than a roller for applying the paint to the fluted surface, but a paint pad such as the Shur-line tear-resistant deck foam pad from Walmart might save you time as it has a large surface area that can be loaded up with paint to saturate the undulations of the fluting and save you effort on brushstrokes.  

And there you have it, a simple yet effective kitchen DIY using a fluted panel to transform the side of your countertops. Fluting adds texture and interest and creates a focal point in the room. 

The beauty of this kitchen DIY is that applying fluted panels means you can cover large areas in a short space of time, making it much quicker than tiling a wall in your home.  

This DIY coffee table started off as an experiment to see how accessible I could make the process. As a DIY blogger, I know woodwork puts people off for being too labour-intensive, and because it can require tools they don't always have. 

My aim as an interior stylist is to make home styling easy to do with budget-friendly and creative DIY projects. I put my thinking cap on for a DIY coffee table surrounded by Amazon packaging, and had a lightbulb moment. 

I made a DIY simple coffee table with cardboard and the result is fabulous. As with most DIY project ideas, you can adapt this creative coffee table to suit your space and interior style. The size, shape, and colours can be customized, ensuring the final article is functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. Plus, the recycled materials makes it super sustainable and good for the planet. 

Tutorial: DIY coffee table that packs punch

Small living room DIY project ideas can still pack a design punch so I focused on ways to make a style statement with this DIY simple coffee table. 

Whilst cardboard isn’t the obvious material for a DIY coffee table as it lacks strength in single sheets, when several layers thick, it's brilliantly study, which is why I planned multilayered structure for my DIY table.

As it turns out, strong correlated cardboard is a fantastic building material because it’s easy to work with, readily available and surprisingly robust when layered up with grab adhesive in between each layer.

No self-respecting interior stylist would be happy to leave the finish as chopped-up cardboard, so out came the ready-mixed plaster (another of my favourite DIY materials), which is easy to apply and creates a fantastic concrete-style finish. The results were better than expected, and a brutalist-inspired chunky plaster DIY coffee table was born, with no timber (and very few tools) required. 

To make your own, you will need:

• Cardboard: I repurposed Amazon packaging for a more sustainable approach. Be sure to source corrugated cardboard for added strength.
• Scissors or utility knife: I recommend using one with retractable and replaceable blades such as the WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife, from Amazon.
• Low-odor construction adhesive: I recommend Gorilla Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive, available on Amazon.
• Patching plaster: ready-mixed patching will save you time. Choose a resealable tub such as the DryDex interior spacklingfrom Amazon for reuse across multiple projects.
• Skimming spreader or a taping knife such as the Red Devil 4 Flex Taping Knife from Walmart.
• Glue: PVA glue or Elmers glue, available from Amazon for the finish.
• Sealant spray: Mod Podge - 1469 Clear Acrylic Sealer from Amazon is a good one.
• Ruler or metal set square, and pen.
• Sandpaper and parcel tape are optional

Step 1: Gather your supplies

The great thing about this DIY coffee table project, is it requires so few tools and materials. The key items are strong cardboard sheets, which can easily be repurposed from leftover packaging. If you have a large item delivered, you'll be all set immediately, but you can save smaller boxes and sheets over time if not. 

Alternatively, ask your neighbors for their unwanted boxes, or buy packing boxes if you're keen to get started and want to save time on your DIY projects. 

A simple pen and ruler will be fine for marking the faces to cut out from the cardboard, and a utility knife is perfect for making quick, accurate cuts. I like using utility knives with replacement blades that are easily stored in the housing, such as the Workpro Premium Utility Knife from Amazon, but you could easily make do with scissors if that's all you have. 

I used ready-mixed interior smoother, also known as patching plaster because it's so much quicker and simpler than mixing it from scratch. Most DIY and hardware stores sell ready-mixed plaster, or you can order online. I recommend diluting the product if you are using it to skim-coat a wall, but that's not necessary for this project, as the extra thickness adds to the texture. 

Step 2: Measure and mark

Decide on the size and shape of your DIY coffee table idea as this will determine the net you need to create. I plumped for a triangular prism and as this was one of the prototypes, and I didn’t want it to be too large. 

Measure and mark the cardboard with the faces you need to create your 3D shape and don’t forget to make multiple of each as you’ll be layering them up for strength. I opted for three of four layers of very thick corrugated cardboard. If you’re creating a larger model, you might want to add some extra layers for structural support.

We have further details in the steps of this sort of project needed if you'd like more general guidance for how to make a DIY coffee table.

Step 3: Cut-out the faces

Cut out the cardboard faces using your metal set square (or ruler) and a utility knife. You could use scissors if that's all you have, but a utility knife is quicker. Protect the surface you are cutting on to prevent damage from the blade. 

Once cut out, lay out the faces in position on the floor to check they are all the right size and none are missing. The great thing about this easy DIY project for beginners coffee table project is that the faces don't have to be perfect, as you can fill in any gaps with adhesive later on. 

Step 4: Create the base

Once you’re happy you have all the faces and layers that you need and they are all the right size, you can spread them out and apply grab adhesive. 

I always opt for a solvent-free, low-odor adhesive that is suitable for interior use, such as the Loctite Power Grab Express Interior Construction Adhesive, available at Walmart. After all, you don't want any fumes putting you off your stride!  

Once the adhesive is applied, sandwich the cardboard shapes together to create thicker sides. Apply gentle pressure over the surface of the top layer of cardboard to spread the adhesive between the layers. 

If using thinner cardboard, place a book or similar on the sheets to help them adhere, but I found the thick cardboard kept its shape nicely while the glue was drying. 

Leave the layers to dry. I created some little supports by cutting rectangles of cardboard and folding them in half, attaching each side to a different face. You could add tabs to your faces if you prefer. 

Once the adhesive is dry, build the DIY coffee table, connecting the sides with the tabs you created. Don’t worry if there are gaps in the joins where the faces meet. 

Fill the gaps grab adhesive and smooth with a palette or taping knife to create the edge. Choosing a taping knife with some flexibility will make your life easier. The AXUS flexible caulking blade from Amazon would do nicely and is rated 4.5/5 stars from hundreds of happy shoppers.

You can even use parcel tape on the edges if you like. I tried this out and it worked fine. I focused on keeping this project simple so anyone can do it.

The patching plaster is brilliant at smoothing over any imperfections at the end, but I wanted the final piece to feel rustic and stone-like, so the more textured and imperfect, the better, as I felt this added to the effect. 

Step 5. Seal the base

Once the cardboard base of your up-cycled cardboard DIY coffee table has been constructed, apply a layer of diluted PVA, aka Elmer's glue, as a primer. Elmer's glue is readily available at Walmart and is safe and solvent-free. It's also easy to clean up with soap and water, making it a great choice for DIY projects in your home. This seals the cardboard and forms a base for the plaster to adhere to.

Once the glue has dried, it’s time to apply your ready-mixed plaster. I used my trusty spreading tool, which I use on all my microcement projects, but you could use a cheap trowel (such as the Anvil stainless steel finishing trowel from The Home Depot, or their pointer trowel for more accuracy) or improvise with a piece of plastic or similar if you are keeping the costs as low as possible.

Step 6: Apply the plaster

Apply only two or three thin layers of plaster. You don’t want them to be too thick, or they might shrink and crack. Spread the plaster evenly over the DIY coffee table one face at a time. Don’t try to create the vertices in one go, as the plaster will be too soft. 

The best approach I found is to spread it over one side of a join and allow it to set, as this forms a firm base for you to spread the adjoining edge up to.

Allow it to dry, then take your sander or sandpaper and apply medium pressure (as detailed in our guide to sanding) to shape the neat join you want for a precision finish. I wanted a more natural and rustic look, so I chose not to sand the edges too neatly and the results were a more weathered stone-block effect. 

If you decide to sand the dried plaster, be sure to take the coffee table outside if you can, or use a mask and sander with a dust extractor.  

Step 7: Finishing touches

To ensure your beautiful new stone-effect DIY coffee table can withstand the wear and tear of home life, it's a good idea to give the finished article a spray with a sealant. Sealing the plaster surface will make cleaning a doddle and prevent spillages and stains from ruining the high-end look of your DIY furniture. 

Once sealed, it's time to get styling. Shop your home to save money styling your coffee table; remember, less is more, as you don't want the piece to look cluttered. Stacking a curated collection of books is always a winner for coffee table styling or adding a vase of flowers from the garden for color, texture and your favorite home fragrance.

So there you have it! A beautiful, contemporary DIY coffee table that you can customize in so many ways. If you want to paint it, do so before you seal it.

Now you're in the DIY mood, give our small entryway DIY ideas a whirl to welcome your guests in with some personalized and unique touches.

Sweating it out and wondering when exactly your AC is going to pump sweet cool air around your room? Don't panic.

I've asked HVAC experts about the time it takes small, medium, and large sized rooms to be cooled down by AC, quizzed them on which factors can impact this and their top tips for speeding up the process. Proper insulation and placement are both key parts and they have plenty more advice.

If you've already learned how to cool down a room and are putting your AC to work, it won't be long before your place feels fresh and fabulous.

How long does it take for an AC to cool a room?

Al Fouz, HVAC expert at ABACO Air Services says, “For a small room that's 150 square feet in size, a 5,000 BTU window AC unit should lower the temperature by 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit within 30-45 minutes."

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and is a measurement for how much energy it takes an appliance to remove heat from the air inside a building. Bigger spaces need AC units with bigger BTU ratings to remain efficient and cool the air in a reasonable time frame.

It's also good to know the BTU to look for when choosing an AC unit for your space. The same way you wouldn't put a Ferrari engine on a pedal bike, you don't need an AC unit with enormous BTU for a small room but the higher the BTU, the quicker it will cool.

Al continues, "Medium-sized rooms of 200-500 sq. ft. will take 45-60 minutes for a portable or central AC unit rated around 10,000-18,000 BTU to achieve similar cooling."

“Larger spaces, open floor plans, or vaulted ceilings often require units of 20,000 BTU or more and can take two hours or longer to reach the target temperature,” he adds.

What factors affect how long it takes AC to cool down a room?

There are numerous things that could affect how long it takes AC to cool down your room. Our experts recommend looking through these before worrying if yours is taking too long.

1. Type of AC

The type of AC that you have is one of the biggest factors for how long it takes for it to cool down a house. Josh Mitchell, HVAC expert and owner of Air Conditioner Lab explains what these are.

• Window AC: These units generally cool a room quicker since they are more powerful and directly expel warm air outside.
• Portable AC: This might take slightly longer than window units due to less efficiency in air exchange.
• Central AC: While it may take longer initially to feel cool air (it often takes 15 to 30 minutes to start feeling a difference), central systems are more effective at keeping a consistent temperature across multiple rooms or larger spaces.

2. Starting temperature

If there's a big difference between the outdoor and indoor temperatures, the AC may take longer to cool the room.

“For example, if it's 95 degrees outside and you want your room at 75 degrees, it will take longer than if it's 85 degrees outside,” Josh says.

3. Insulation

For those who live in older homes, you might find that your insulation is insufficient.

“Ensure that the room is well insulated — this can significantly reduce cooling time by keeping the cold air in and the hot air out,” Josh says.

Make sure to seal gaps around windows, such as by using sealant (the GE Siliconized Acrylic Sealant from Walmart is a bestseller and is paint ready in 30 minutes), so air from the outside doesn’t easily get inside.

4. BTU rating

Al says the most important factor is matching the AC unit’s BTU rating to the specific room size for maximum efficiency. 

“Oversizing wastes energy, while undersizing won’t effectively cool the space. For the fastest cooling, choose the highest BTU unit your budget allows,” he adds.

For small rooms, Josh recommends the LG LW5016 Window Air Conditioner available on Amazon, saying it’s incredibly efficient for quick cooling in small spaces.

5. AC maintenance

Just like making the most out of a fan, making sure your AC is squeaky clean is important for the best breeze possible. 

“To maintain optimal performance, keep the AC's filters clean and ensure the unit is serviced regularly,” Josh says.

To do this, simply dust the filter with a cloth (the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloths on Amazon are some of our favorite cleaning supplies), clean it with warm water and mild soap, and let it dry before using again.

Useful cooling buys

Whether you're looking for a renter-friendly AC or a new fan, our top-rated picks from trusted retailers will help keep you cool.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Once you've found out how long it takes for an AC to cool down a room, you can relax knowing that soon enough your place will be a chilled place to hang out.

Struggling to beat the heat at night? Learning whether you should have the AC on at night or not will also come in useful.

I've seen the chalky blue trend make waves on socials and in homes everywhere, so I'm officially crowning it the color of the season.

I have quizzed interior designers about the shade, exploring why it's so popular this summer and how you can style it in your home. I've also curated gorgeous chalky blue home buys to help you channel the chic look in your home.

The color trends of the year have involved everything from moody shades to warm terracotta. Now the sun is shining and the sky is clear, chalky blue is the hottest hue to try.

Chalky blue is the hue of the season

This shade is one of my favorite summer color trends. I love how it reflects light and brightens up a room, making it ideal for smaller spaces without overwhelming it.

Where our panel of interior designers have recommended decor buys to go with the chalky blue trend, I've curated matching highly-rated picks from trusted retailers throughout, as well as putting together my must-have chalky blue shopping edit.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Why chalky blue is the color of the summer

Like me, you might have spotted the nautical coastal grandmother trend has come back in a sophisticated way via coastal Hamptons inspired decor, one of the biggest summer decor trends this year.

Chalky blue plays a huge role in this, thanks to its understated elegance.

“This shade brings in freshness and coolness, which makes it a perfect choice for the summer season,” explains Dondi Szombatfalvy, interior designer at Madison Exteriors and Remodelling.

Dondi adds that chalky blue evokes feelings of tranquility and contentment, carrying the pleasing memories of water or a summer sky and connecting us with nature.  

“Unlike more vibrant blues, chalky blue possesses an understated elegance that complements a wide range of styles, from modern minimalist to rustic farmhouse,” adds Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

Even though it’s a trending color now, if you bring it into your home, it’s still a shade with long-term appeal.

Nina explains, “While trends come and go, chalky blue has a timeless quality that ensures longevity in home design.” 

She says its classic charm can be refreshed season after season, making it a brilliant investment for those looking to create enduring beauty in their interiors.

How to style chalky blue in your home

When deciding on how to bring chalky blue into your home, it’s a good idea to assess the size of your space and plan the shade accordingly. 

“If you have limited space, opt for lighter tones, whereas saturated ones can be used in large rooms with more air and light,” Nina explains.

From here, use the hue strategically, whether you pair it with natural materials or with other colors, to complement your space and what you already have in it.

“Chalky blue pairs beautifully with natural materials such as wood, stone, rattan, and linen,” Nina explains. 

For example, she says that a blue dining table set against a wooden floor or a bed with chalky blue linens surrounded by wicker baskets (the Bayou Breeze Artyom Wicker General Basket from Wayfair is handwoven from corn leaf and rope) can evoke a coastal retreat vibe that’s perfect for summer.

You can also bring it in more subtly, such as with art prints or with small kitchen appliances in fun shades. I've got my eye on the Facelle Electric Stand Mixer from Amazon, which is made from stainless steel and has six speed settings.

If you want to create a more dynamic look, you can also layer different shades of blue within your space. 

“Combine chalky blue with deeper navy or lighter sky blue accents to create a rich, multi-dimensional palette,” Nina suggests.

Choose a striking centerpiece and layer around this, such as with the Vietri Ostrica Glass Centerpiece from Saks which is easy to clean and a real showstopper.

This technique adds depth and interest without straying from the calming nature of the main color.

The key is not going overboard with the color, as this can minimize its purpose of making the area calming and inviting.

Shop our chalky blue edit

Chalky blue is undoubtedly my color of the summer, thanks to its refreshing blend of serenity and sophistication.

“By incorporating chalky blue through accent walls, furniture, and accessories, you can create a beautifully inviting space that resonates with the calming essence of summer,” Nina finishes by saying.

If this shade is a little too light for you, the brown trend is also doing the rounds at the moment and is such a cozy choice.

It's useful to find out the outdated paint colors going out of style if you're getting a little tired of your current paint color and considering a change.

I've asked interior designers what shades they've been swerving this year and the colors they've been reaching for instead. Muted grays and millennial pink are officially out, and instead earthy and rich tones are in.

If you're looking for interior paint color trends for the year, knowing what to avoid is just as important as finding out what to try.

The outdated paint colors designers aren't using in 2024

Utilizing color in your home is one of the most impactful ways to bring fresh interior design trends into your space. I'm feeling so inspired to change up my place after chatting with experts, and I just know you're going to feel the same.

The designers I've spoken to have recommended color alternatives for their loathed outdated ones, which I've curated closely matching picks you can easily shop.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Ditch greige and go for soft terracotta

I’ll be honest — the name of the color greige has never appealed to me, nor has the color itself. So, I’m pleased to see that it’s firmly becoming an outdated paint color  now.

"This is a color that combines the tones of both gray and beige and is pronounced as 'graysh'," explains Priyanshi Jain, interior designer and founder of Pixels & Spaces. "Due to the changes and latest trends in interior design and architecture, greige appears to be one-dimensional and flat in today’s landscape."

Instead, people are now more inclined to try colors that add depth and personality to their homes.

Priyanshi recommends using soft terracotta to add a neutral, calming, and welcoming touch while bringing in a subtle richness. This is also one of my favorite warm kitchen colors that works so well across so many spaces, big and small.

If you want to go for a touch more pigment, try an earthy green such as Lick's Green 18 (available in a handy stick on sample form).

2. Swap Ferrari red for maroon

While the unexpected red theory has been one of the biggest TikTok trends this year, using this striking a color in a big way at home has quickly become outdated.

“Truth be told, for me personally, bright primary colors often feel garish and overwhelming. I don't even like them in a daycare center!” says Gaia Guidi Filippi, interior designer and founder of Gaia G Interiors. “They are also particularly un-inventive and flat." 

Instead, Gaia advises going for colors with more depth and subtlety. "Try maroon instead of Ferrari red," she says.

Gaia also recommends trying this approach for other outdated paint colors, such as going for terracotta instead of orange (Benjamin Moore's Baked Terracotta has rosy pink undertones) and sage instead of Kelly green (Farrow and Ball's Vert De Terre responds to light beautifully).

3. Pass on millennial pink and choose mauve pink

I loved Barbiecore and all the fun Barbie Dreamhouse decor that came with it last year — but this doll-like shade is now on the shelf, much like its plastic namesake.

Gaia says, "Though I've yet to meet a pink I don't love, millennial pink has become overused and less appealing. I'm really into more sophisticated shades, like rose and dusty mauves that offer a refined and mature aesthetic."

According to Gaia, these are also amazing for creating moody rooms that are all the rage at the moment. 

4. Change cool gray for taupe

As well as the darker greige being an outdated color, cool gray has also made its way onto our interior designers’ no thank you list. Instead, they're going for the brown trend that's been making waves recently. 

“Cool grays were definitely overused in the 2010s, especially in builder-grade homes — so we tired of them and now they just feel cold and impersonal,” Gaia says. “My recommendation to replace them is to opt for softer neutrals in the brown family, such as taupe."

Gaia adds that she’s seen shades such as café au lait (Benjamin Moore's Café au Lait is rich and indulgent) and caramel (Farrow and Ball's Sand is a warm neutral with a touch of red) gain popularity for their warm and inviting feel.

5. Stop using beige and try off-white

I know — beige is always a safe bet. But, if you want to keep your place on trend, you’re going to need move away from this outdated, uninspiring paint color.

“Beige is a color that is somewhat more flat and bland than greige,” says Priyanshi. “It lacks the character and coziness that many people crave. Instead, try picking off-whites with a hint of lavender to add coolness and sophistication to your home."

You can also try off-whites with pink undertones to inject some warmth into your space. If you’re committed to keeping things beige, Priyanshi suggests using it with hints of pink and yellow to keep it subtle and inviting.

For example, in a neutral living area with beige walls, you could add pink throw pillows such as the washable and soft Deconovo Pink Pillow Covers from Walmart. 

Then, you could layer them with a blanket such as the Dakota Fields Halfeti Knitted Throw from Wayfair that is knitted and lightweight. Hey presto — a cute color scheme with minimal effort.

As well as paying attention to particular colors, it’s also smart to pay attention to the different sheen and finish applications when it comes to paint trends.

“For example, don't just think of a paint color for a bookshelf — consider doing it in high gloss to make it extra,” Gaia finishes by saying.

If you’re looking for shades specifically for apartments or rentals, it’s also worth looking at small space color trends specifically.

You might want to find out how to cool down a house without AC if you're sweating it out in your place and wishing for respite from the summer heat.

I've asked home improvement experts for their top tips on how to take the heat down a notch. From quick fixes like opening doors cleverly to long-term solutions such as landscaping outdoors, there are so many ways to do this.

For those who have reached for the best fans and not had any luck, it's worth trying alternative methods for cooling down your home. I know the pain, and I'm here to help you gain your comfortable house back.

Eight expert ways to cool down a house without AC

Even if you've learned how to cool down a room, you still might be struggling to apply the same techniques to your whole house. We've got you covered with plenty of tips on chilling out indoors without AC.

Our experts have recommended specific buys throughout, which we have curated highly-rated quality picks from trusted retailers for.

All prices correct at time of publication.

1. Make fans work double

For those wondering how to cool down a house without AC, one of the best things you can do is make your fans work harder for you.

One hot tip is to keep one on the floor so that it pushes cooler air around your home, something Real Homes deputy editor Emily Lambe swears by. Use another fan facing an open window (temperature allowing) to push warmer air out. This is a great idea to try when sleeping when it's hot.

If this still isn't working for you, you might want to invest in a fan that will serve you long-term. I have the Dreo Pedestal Fan that's available from Amazon and love how quiet and powerful it is.

Make sure to work out the cost of running a fan to help you budget.

2. Open windows only when it's cooler

I know how tempting it can be to want to open your windows when your home feels sticky and stuffy. But don't do it!

“While our first instinct is to let in the fresh air and open the windows, if it’s hotter outside than your home, then do not have the windows open all day,” explains Sahar Saffari, interior designer at Hi-Spec Design.

She continues, “The best idea is to open the windows early in the morning and in the evening.”

This way, when it cools down you can let the fresh air in, but whilst the outside air is at its warmest, you don't let it into your home. 

3. Open doors tactfully 

If you don't live in an open plan space, make sure to keep internal doors open to increase airflow around the home generally — especially when you are able to open windows for ventilation after the hottest part of the day (3-6pm) is over, or the sun has passed that aspect of your home.

For those who have glazed rooms, you may want to consider closing the connecting door to your home, as it will get hot and the heat will transfer. 

In these, ensure any blinds are closed where possible and consider a portable air conditioning unit as the heat they trap is tricky to dispel without, and may heat up surrounding rooms.

It's also a good idea to keep children, elderly people and pets out of these areas also as they are more likely to overheat.

4. Be mindful of window coverings

Whether you have blinds, curtains, or shutters, make sure to keep them closed during the day so as to not let excess heat in and to cool down your house without AC. If you live in a two-story home, keep all upstairs windows, blinds and other window treatments closed to keep hot air (which rises) out.

“This may seem obvious, but it’s something many people forget when it’s a beautiful sunny day outside,” Shahar explains. “Your first thought might be to let the sunlight in, but light equals heat, which is a sure way to heat up your home quickly.”

It's also smart to pay attention to the kinds of curtains you have in your home.

“Choosing blackout curtains or reflective blinds can help block out additional heat,” says Jiri Smetana, home improvement expert at PuroClean. "During our work, I've often recommended using reflective blinds, which are a cost-effective way to keep the home cooler during intense summers."

For example, the ChrisDowa Blackout Roller Curtains on Amazon come in five different colors, block out sunlight and UV rays, and are easy to install.

5. Reduce use of large appliances

When it's extremely warm, it's a good idea to reconsider using your oven when cooling down a house.

In the summer, I only use my air fryers, as they don't generate as much heat as a convection over and are perfect for warming up smaller foods to go with fresh summer salads. You'll also save money on your energy bill, too.

As well as these, it's worth reducing the use of your dishwasher and washing machine, as they generate heat, too. If it's a must, choose shorter cycles or run when it is is cooler outside (evenings and overnight) so that you are able to let some of the heat escape through the windows.

In Europe, it is perfectly normal to see fresh laundry hanging on balconies and in backyards as soon as the sun makes an appearance so you could skip the dryer and grab yourself a budget clothes airer to hang your washing on outside.

The Costway Laundry Clothes Storage Drying Rack from Target has plenty of space, will take just over 26 lbs of wet clothes, and can be folded away when not in use.

6. Add shade outdoors

If you have ample outdoor space, you can bring in tall garden plants or even garden screening to dampen the sun's rays on your property and to cool down your home without AC.

“Planting trees or installing exterior shades can block direct sunlight from hitting your windows and walls,” explains Kristin Hintlian, home improvement expert and co-owner of Bonsai Builders.

“In Massachusetts, we’ve seen a 15-20% reduction in interior temperatures by adding pergolas with climbing plants or shade sails over patios,” she adds.

Light equals heat, so being able to keep your house in the shade is an ideal way to keep it cool.

7. Upgrade your windows

Investing in high-quality windows designed for energy efficiency can make a big difference when keeping a home cool without AC.

“For example, using double-glazed windows with a low emissivity  (a surface's capacity to emit heat by radiation) coating reduces heat transfer,” Kristin explains.

Many US homes come with these pre-installed, but if your home doesn’t, it may be time to upgrade.

A renter-friendly fix would be adding heat-repelling film, such as Amazon's Choice and bestseller, Coavas One Way Privacy Window Film Reflective Window Film, which reflects UV rays and blocks the sun's heat. It's rated 4.4/5 stars by over 9600 customers and is cheap, too.

8. Utilize fans installed in the home

As well as bringing in portable fans, you cool a house without AC by turning on existing house fans and installing new vents.

“Using kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans can help remove heat and humidity,” Kristin says.

Jiri suggests installing attic fans, as these can significantly reduce indoor temperatures by expelling trapped hot air. “I've seen homes become noticeably cooler just by adding ridge vents to improve airflow in the attic."

By learning how to keep a home cool without AC, you can properly enjoy relaxing in your home even with the sun shining brightly.

For those who aren’t dealing with a whole house, learning how to keep a top-floor apartment cool in summer may come in useful, instead.

If you're planning your first apartment makeover and are worried about making remodeling mistakes, I am uniquely qualified to comment as I have quite literally been there, done that, and learned from my renovation errors.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you undertake a renovation project. It’s expensive, messy, time consuming, but oh-so-worth-it. I renovated my first apartment between 2021 and 2022 and I made painful errors along the way, so I am sharing what not to do in your apartment makeover to save you time, tears and wasted cash.

Learn about what went wrong in my journey, from apartment decorating mistakes, to renovation project bloopers and what to do instead.

The 5 apartment makeover mistakes I made renovating my first apartment

Whether your first apartment needs a full-scale revamp, or you simply need to decide between wrapping kitchen countertops vs painting, there are a whole host of remodeling opportunities in an apartment makeover, and therefore bountiful mistakes to avoid. 

I embarked upon my apartment renovation journey with the level of naivety only seen in your early 20s, and the confidence of someone who had been flipping houses for years. There are many things I wish I knew beforehand and I've detailed them below to help you avoid them.

For any specific products I have recommended, the prices were correct at time of publication.

1. Rushing

Cutting corners and costs will only hurt you in the long run as you'll only wish you had upgraded your temperamental radiators to the best ones, invested in a more powerful shower head for that luxury hotel bathroom feel, or that you went for the more expensive real wood flooring instead of laminate.

One area I made a mistake was my kitchen. I was so desperate to move that I left it as it was and I have regretted that ever since. If I could do my reno all over again, I would spend a few more weeks finishing the kitchen off, or continue to work on it after I moved into my apartment.

It was the only area of the apartment that I did not touch because, whilst it may not have been to my taste, it was fairly new and in good condition. What I should have done as a middle of the road solution was painted the cabinets a matte taupe color , (the ALL-IN-ONE Paint in Taupe, on Amazon has great reviews) upgraded the door handles (if you're a brushed brass kind of person like me, try the highly-rated and budget-friendly 30-pack Plustool Gold Cabinet Handles, also from Amazon) and applied a peel-and-stick vinyl to the worktop. 

These affordable and effective fixes would have made a world of difference to the look and feel of my open-plan space and I would be left with zero regrets about my renovation.

I also worried so much about spending hundreds on a bathroom vanity unit, but in the end it looked phenomenal and I have not regretted having it.

Take as much time as you need to save for your renovation, even if having the patience to wait feels horrid, or compromise by doing work while you're living in it. Home remodeling is an expensive endeavor and it is part of the reason that my small apartment renovation took a year to complete.

Whether you are undertaking a full-scale reno project or scoping out renter-friendly bathroom upgrades, it's vital you take your time to achieve the best finish possible. 

This piece of advice feeds into all of the mistakes that first time renovators make and any regrets they have about their finished project. If you do not rush, you will not regret that paint color that was born out of a hurried decision, or skipping that renovation project you end up kicking yourself for every day.

2. Settling for design choices you don't like

If, like me, you are still not brave enough to go maximalist with your small living room color, consider a bright couch. My dopamine decor choice was a pink velvet couch. I’m a single girl in my 20s, with no children or pets, living solo in my first apartment. When else will I have the opportunity to own a pink couch? Just make sure that you’re prepared to clean your velvet couch as lighter color couches show dirty and marks much more easily.

During your apartment makeover, be bold with your design choices. Do not concern yourself with resale value because you aren’t renovating your apartment for the next owners, you are renovating it for yourself. If they don't like something in your pad when they buy it, they will change it themselves.

If you like the one I went for, try Wayfair's Everly Quinn 70-inch Upholstered Sofa in Rose Velvet. It has gold metal legs, space underneath if you want to slide a rolling storage box in there and make use of dead space, which is a must in small-space living.

3. Doubting your ability to DIY

Do not doubt your ability to learn DIY skills. Whilst I was renovating my space, my mantra was ‘trial, error, and YouTube tutorials.’  

Do not discount your ability to complete some renovations yourself as often enough, DIY is not as difficult as you imagine. I went from DIY zero to DIY hero in the space of a year and, before renovating my apartment, I barely knew how to use a screwdriver (I was 23 years old, please don’t judge). 

However, the internet is a wonderful resource with experts in every single field. Our How to guides are pretty nifty if we do say so ourselves. So, you want to know how to fit baseboards or how to smooth walls without plastering? There’s a guide for that and someone more experienced to tell you how to microcement your kitchen.

Believe it or not, a novice like me managed to gut an entire bathroom without messing up the plumbing. The previous owner had ever-so-helpfully tiled over the top of an older tile, so there were two layers of the stuff to get through. But, with the help of dust masks, protective specs and one very industrial mallet, I managed to remove it all successfully.

My apartment is a Victorian-era home, so prepping the walls for a few coats of Lick's White 06 was a little tricky. I did not have the time to learn how to plaster a wall myself nor did I have the funds to call in the pros, but it was nothing that some patience, medium grit sandpaper and some Poly-filler could not remedy.

4. Thinking you can do it all

Whilst embracing your capacity to master DIY, do not think you can do everything yourself. All first-time renovators are guilty of thinking of this, including me.

I am not mathematically minded and desperately struggled to measure, lay, and fit my oak-topped wooden flooring. After a few months of back and forth, I finally gave up and called the professionals to come (where was our guide on how to lay flooring when I needed it?)

Upon chatting with the pros, I found out that every door needed to be removed and the baseboards had to be cut at the bottom for a flush and professional finish, which is not something I ever considered. If I had not called for professional help, I would have wasted even more time and, potentially, more than $700 of wooden flooring.

After that, I learned my lesson and called a plumber for the bathroom. I was not about to play around with fitting a brand new shower, potentially wreaking havoc, leaks and water damage on the apartment below me. I called a family friend who specializes in fitting bathrooms and was super pleased with the quick turnaround and sleek finish, which is certainly not something I could have achieved on my own.

If you need to call professional help to fit your new shower or rewire your lighting, ensure that you call on someone you trust via a recommendation from a friend or family member. Alternatively, be vigilant in looking for signs of spotting a cowboy builder.

5. Forgetting to have fun

Home remodeling is a long and exhausting process, believe me and it can be so easy to overlook the fun bits, or fail to find joy in any of it. Call in your friends and family to help you along the way so you don't want to pack it all in and cry into your coffee every morning.

There were certainly a few times when I questioned why on earth I had take the project on, with the seemingly endless flooring struggle being one of them. It was also freezing cold during the winter months as I did not have the new radiators installed, which added to my frosty feelings towards the project during this period. 

Part of the reason the renovation took so long, despite me owning an apartment that is made of just three rooms, is that I was cold, tired and, quite honestly, sick of being covered in dust and paint with no end in sight and an ever dwindling bank balance. 

The DIY support and assistance of my very capable family members, particularly my mom, pulled me through. As well as finally accepting a 1-0 defeat to the flooring and calling the pros.

However, the finished product was worth all of the dust-covered, messy hours spent knocking through bathroom tiles, fixing up ‘landlord specials’, and painting over old-fashioned magnolia walls. 

The satisfaction of completing such a huge project is unparalleled and when I look back, the journey was not so bad either. I learnt so many practical skills along the way, whilst creating something that felt so completely mine. Also, when else do you get the opportunity to blast music and full-body-swing a mallet at a bathroom wall? Such fun!

I also loved documenting the renovation process on Instagram and TikTok as both a visual diary for myself and for my out-of-town friends and family to follow the remodeling journey. Everyone loves a remodel before and after, after all.

Try to find pockets of joy, take problems on the chin, take a break when it threatens to overwhelm you and give yourself some credit for everything you're doing right and succeeding in.

Are you taking on your own renovation project? Be sure to exercise your patience (trust me, you'll need it!) and remember that your hard work will be worth it in the end. 

For even more DIY and design mistakes to avoid, make sure that you aren't committing these kitchen cabinet errors and are well versed in the tricky task of painting your ceiling. The Real Homes team has rented over 20 properties, giving us 33 years of renting experience between us. Our tips for renting your first apartment aren't to be missed.

Knowing how to make a rain chain is a great way to add style, calm and an eco-friendly touch to your garden.

Whether you want to harness rainwater from your down-spout in this beautiful way, or add a stylish quirk to your guttering, our home, roofing and conservation experts explain the six steps to create and install your very own, customized rain chain.

If you know what a rain chain is and you're keen to create your own, look no further. Our pros will guide you from start to finish, and you'll be delighting in the relaxing sound of your tinkling rain chain in no time. 

Six steps to making a rain chain at home

When it comes to garden ideas worth copying, rain chains are a beautiful and functional addition to any home, guiding rainwater from your roof to the ground in a visually pleasing way. 

Making your own rain chain is a rewarding DIY project that can be customized to suit your style. Our experts' step-by-step instructions will guide you from start to finish.

Where our pros have suggested products, we've used our consumer, shopping, homes, and yard industry expertise to source suitable matching picks to help you shop the guide with high-quality products, from trusted retailers.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

1. Gather your rain chain materials

Making a rain chain yourself begins with gathering the necessary materials.

Chris Stevenson, vice president of 730 South Exteriors, says, "Rain chains are a centuries-old example of Japanese ingenuity and were meant to add ambiance and look decorative at the same time.

"With so many options available to you, sketch out your rain chain! Decide how you want to space any cups or decorative items, and if you'll use different sizes. This will help you determine how much chain to use between each cup."

First and foremost, a sturdy chain that can support the weight of both the water and any attachments is essential. 

Chris adds, "Don't skimp on the chain itself. It needs to be long enough, plus strong enough to handle heavy rain and wind. Look for galvanized steel chain — it resists rust and comes in different link sizes."

Bryan Clayton, co-founder of GreenPal, says, "I always opt for materials like stainless steel or brass — these metals resist rust and last a heck of a lot longer than cheaper alternatives.

"The aesthetics of these quality materials are superior, and they’ll give your home’s exterior a touch of elegance that holds up over time."

Other popular materials include aluminum (one of the best materials for outdoor items) and copper.

Jordan Woolf, owner of Huntsville Roofing Solutions prefers two other popular materials. He says, "Copper and aluminum are great choices for their durability and resistance to rust. Copper will develop a natural patina over time, adding a unique look.

"Watch out though — mixing metals like copper and steel can cause galvanic corrosion. Stick to one type of metal to ensure longevity."

You'll also need small metal cups, buckets, or decorative pots to catch and guide the water, along with a measuring tape, pliers, wire cutters, and a drill. This GDMINLO Measuring Tape from Amazon is flexible and comes with more than 50,000 five-star reviews. 

To secure the rain chain to the gutter and the ground, you’ll need hooks and anchors. These Deflect-o S Hooks from Target are made of galvanized metal wire and come in a pack of 50.

Decorative elements like beads, charms, or small figurines can add a personal touch.

Chris adds, "This is where you get creative! Cups, mugs, teapots, even recycled plastic bottles can work. Terracotta pots are a classic choice, and come in various sizes, allowing you to play with the water flow. You'll need six to eight, depending on the size." 

These Orange Terracotta Pots from Lowe's come in multiple widths, ranging from four inches to 18.

2. Measure and cut the chain

Measure the distance from your gutter to the ground to determine the length of the chain you'll need, adding a few extra inches for adjustments. Using wire cutters or pliers, cut the chain to the desired length. 

If creating tiers with containers, cut the chain into appropriate lengths for each section. Wear protective glasses and gloves to protect your hands. These Blue Ridge Multi-Purpose Gloves from Target offer great protection and comfort, while these Dewalt Protector Glasses from Amazon are lightweight, durable and well-reviewed.

Chris says, "You'll need a length of sturdy chain that can handle the weight of water. For a standard rain chain, a chain with links around 3/16" thick (just less than 5mm) is a good choice. 

"If unsure, my advice would be to get a length at least 8-10 feet long — you can always cut it shorter later."

3. Assemble the rain chain

With your materials at the ready and cut to size, it's time to get creating. 

Chris says, "Put on your safety glasses and gloves. Flip the cups upside down and drill a hole in the center of the base, big enough for the chain link to pass through easily.

"Next, lay out your chain on a flat surface. Thread one end of the chain through the hole in your bottom cup. Now comes the S-hook magic: attach an S-hook to another chain link and hook it onto the bottom cup's hole, on the opposite side from where the main chain went through. This creates a little loop for the next cup to hang from.

"Take your next cup, thread the main chain through its base hole, and then connect it to the S-hook hanging from the previous cup. Repeat this process for all your cups, following your design plan."

Ensure all containers and decorations are securely attached to handle the weight of the rain chain, and the water that will move through it.

Chirs adds, "Make sure each cup has a drainage hole at the bottom to prevent water build-up and freezing in cold weather. Be mindful of weight distribution also. Balance heavier cups lower in the chain."

4. Install the rain chain

Next, it's time to connect your newly-made rain chain to the gutter.

Jordan says, "Use a stable ladder to reach your gutter (Little Giant Ladders from Lowe's reach up to 18 feet and come with five-star reviews). If there's already a downspout, remove it. Drill a hole in the gutter that's slightly larger than the diameter of your rain chain attachment.

"Insert the gutter attachment piece through the hole and secure it tightly to ensure stability (the Monarch Rain Chains Gutter Installation Clip from Lowe's is made of pure copper).

"Hook the top link or cup of the rain chain onto the gutter attachment piece. Make sure the rain chain hangs straight and reaches the ground or a drainage basin."

Securing the bottom end of your rain chain is an important step to ensure it can withstand strong winds and doesn't blow around and break. It's important too if you're looking to harvest the rainwater.

Nisha Maxwell, permaculture landscape designer and seed farmer says, "Since the EPA estimates that 30% of Americans’ water use happens outdoors, saving rainwater could significantly reduce the household water bill."

Nisha suggests taking account of your region's typical annual rainfall when considering water collection methods. She adds, "Choose a garden bed for low rainfall, a water cistern for heavy rainfall, or a rain garden for intermittent heavy rain like southwestern monsoons."

You can secure the bottom end of the rain chain in a drainage basin, decorative pot, or into the ground with a stake. 

5. Decorate your rain chain

When it comes to stylish rain chain ideas, the world is your oyster! You can enhance the visual appeal of your rain chain by adding all kinds of personal touches. 

Paint or decorate the containers with weather-resistant paint, add LED lights for night illumination, or incorporate natural elements like stones, shells, or crystals. Ensure any added elements are waterproof and securely attached.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your rain chain can turn it into a beautiful garden feature that complements your home's exterior. Choosing decorative elements and thoughtful placement can significantly impact the overall look.

"Opt for elements like glass beads, colorful stones, or themed cups that match your garden’s aesthetic. Integrate small hanging plants or succulents nearby to add a touch of whimsical greenery. For lighting, consider adding solar-powered lights or glow-in-the-dark paint around the cups for nighttime visibility and added charm."

6. Maintain your rain chain

Regular maintenance keeps your rain chain looking beautiful and functioning well. Clean it regularly to remove debris, leaves, or dirt. Inspect the chain and containers for rust or corrosion, replacing or repairing them as needed. 

Adrian Pedraza, owner of The California Home Buyer, advises cleaning the rain chain thoroughly when preparing your garden for winter and inspecting it to make sure it is clear of debris and capable of operating as intended. 

He adds, "You can shield metal chains from the harsh winter weather by coating them with a rust-resistant substance."

Try Rust-Oleum's Stop Rust Inhibitor Spray, available on Amazon on untreated metal. Its easy-spray application will make protecting your rain chain and other outdoor metal items a cinch, and protect them for six months. 

To prevent the rain chain from swinging in the wind, ensure it is securely tethered. Attach it to a ground stake, stone and S hook anchor, a sturdy garden sculpture using heavy-duty wire, nylon cord, or a small auxiliary chain. Ensure the tether is taut enough to minimize movement but flexible enough to accommodate the chain's movement during heavy rain. 

In areas that experience harsh winters, another option is to remove the rain chain for the season.

Ryan Farley, CEO of LawnStarter says, "I recommend removing your rain chain in the winter, unless you live in an area with pretty mild winters. If ice builds up on your rain chain, it could actually cause damage to your gutter due to weight dragging on the structure."

Meet our experts

Enjoy the soothing sight and sound of rain cascading down your handmade, unique rain chain, knowing you created it with your own hands.

Next, check out these 30 cheap garden ideas and the garden accessory that will save your knees.

The Brooklinen weighted blanket is a particularly stylish pick that’s just the right size for a single person, and since I absolutely love Brooklinen sheets, I was eager to try the blanket out for myself. 

Weighted blankets are designed to deliver deep pressure stimulation, which makes you feel like you’re wrapped up in a tight hug, and many people (myself included) find that they help relieve stress and anxiety. The Brooklinen weighted blanket weighs 12 pounds, making it a fairly lightweight option, and it comes in several stylish colors, including seasonal options that rotate every few months. 

I’ve dealt with anxiety all of my adult life, and weighted blankets are one of my go-to methods of relaxation when I’m having a hard day. After a week of testing, here’s what I thought about the Brooklinen Weighted Blanket and whether it’s worth buying for your home. 

 What I thought of the Brooklinen weighted blanket 

I’ve tested several weighted blankets over the past few years, and the Brooklinen weighted blanket is one of the most manageable options once you know how heavy a weighted blanket should be. Some weighted blankets— especially those that weigh over 15 pounds — are heavy and unwieldy, making it challenging to move them around your home. However, at just 12 pounds, the Brooklinen blanket was much more manageable to move around and adjust during the night, and I never felt like I was being squashed underneath it. 

The blanket offered a gentle amount of pressure that I found soothing when I was stressed or anxious (one of the best benefits of a weighted blanket), and it didn’t cause me to overheat, even though I tested it out during the summer. It was comfortable for sleeping or just relaxing on the couch, and it made for a stylish addition to my living space. 

There were a few things I didn’t love about the blanket, though. While its appearance is attractive, it’s definitely not the softest material. Additionally, the blanket can only be cleaned in a commercial washing machine, so there’s no way to launder it at home.

Brooklinen weighted blanket specifications

•  Dimensions: 48 x 72 inches 
•  Weight: 12 pounds 
•  Fabric: 160 GSM 99% cotton, 1% spandex crepe (face); 120 GSM washed cotton (back) 
•  Filling: Glass beads and polyester batting 

Unboxing the Brooklinen weighted blanket

The Brooklinen weighted blanket arrived in very simple packaging. Inside the shipping box, the blanket was packed in a clear plastic bag with handles — the type of bag that most comforters come in. It was obviously heavier than an average blanket, but I had no problem carrying it up to my bedroom. 

After unzipping the bag, the blanket was ready to go right out of the package. There’s no cover to install, so all I had to do was cut off the oversized care tag, start using it, and find somewhere to store the blanket.

Is the Brooklinen weighted blanket comfortable?

The top of the Brooklinen weighted blanket has a textured crepe-like pattern for visual interest, and the back is a smooth cotton fabric. The blanket has box stitching to keep its inner beads evenly distributed, as well as a thick edging around all four sides. I got the blanket in the seasonal color Fig, which is a muted purple. 

The first time I used the weighted blanket, I noticed that it was not particularly soft. The cotton fabric is smooth to the touch, but it’s not the type of material you’d want to curl up with on a cold winter day. While many weighted blankets have suede or fuzzy covers, this one is less tactile to the touch, which could be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your preferences. 

When using the blanket, I really loved the gentle weight it provided. With heavier blankets, I sometimes get a bit claustrophobic and feel like I’m being smushed, but the Brooklinen’s lighter weight was calming without being overwhelming. It was also easy to adjust, even when I was lying down. The blanket is just big enough for one person to use — it’s roughly the size of a throw blanket, so it’s not big enough to cover the whole bed.

I used the Brooklinen weighted blanket overnight and while relaxing on the couch, and it definitely helped me to feel calm when I was stressed or anxious. The weight was evenly distributed across the blanket, and there was enough inner padding that it muffled any sound of the glass beads shifting. You aren’t able to feel the beads, either, which is nice. 

I was a bit nervous that the blanket would be too hot at night, as I was testing it during a particularly warm week, but to my surprise, the fabric is quite breathable and barely retains any heat. I loved that I was able to use the blanket without turning into a sweaty mess—a problem I’ve had with other weighted blankets in the past. 

Cleaning the Brooklinen weighted blanket

I share my home with two long-haired dogs and a mischievous cat, so I much prefer bedding that’s easy to clean. I was happy to discover that the Brooklinen weighted blanket doesn’t collect pet hair, even after my dog laid on top of it for a few hours, and it doesn’t seem to get static-y, either. 

However, if you do need to wash a weighted blanket due to odors or stains, it’s not an easy task. While some weighted blankets can be laundered at home, Brooklinen only recommends cleaning this product in a commercial washing machine—the oversized units you’d find at a laundromat. For occasional stains, the brand recommends spot cleaning. 

Is the Brooklinen weighted blanket right for you?

The Brooklinen weighted blanket is a good choice if you’re looking for a lighter, breathable option to use in the summer. Its 12-pound weight offers gentle pressure without being overwhelming, and it’s easier to adjust and move around than other weighted blankets. While not the softest material ever, the cotton fabric has the added bonus of being highly breathable, so it can be used in warm weather without making you feel too hot. Plus, the blanket itself is quite attractive thanks to its trendy colors and textured fabric, and it will add to the decor in any space. 

There are a few things to keep in mind before you purchase this blanket, though. For one, it’s only available in a 12-pound weight, which may not be substantial enough for some people. Additionally, the blanket is inconvenient to wash and will require a trip to the laundromat, unlike other weighted blankets, which have removable covers or can be laundered at home. 

How we tested the Brooklinen weighted blanket

Brooklinen sent me the weighted blanket, and I tested it in my home for just over a week before writing this review. I evaluated the blanket on the following criteria: 

• Unboxing: I looked at how easy the blanket was to unpackage and set up, noting whether it was ready to use out of the box. Some weighted blankets must be washed before use, and others need to have their covers put on. 
• Weight: I used the weighted blanket for sleeping, as well as lounging around the house, and I evaluated how its weight felt during use. Was it too light? Too heavy? I also noted how the weight made me feel and whether it helped or hindered my sleeping. 
• Comfort: As with any blanket, it’s important for weighted blankets to be comfortable to use. I noted whether the fabric was soft if I could feel the inner glass beads, and how well it regulated temperature during use.
• Cleaning: It can be tricky to wash a weighted blanket, so I carefully reviewed the brand’s recommended care guidelines and whether they require special supplies and could be done at home.  

Looking for a celeb-approved buy? We found the weighted blanket Olivia Rodrigo can't live without, plus three budget-friendly alternatives. It's great if you're in the market for something with a chunky knit texture to add to your weighted blanket collection. 

Getting to grips with how to wallpaper a small bathroom will help avoid all kinds of frustrating hold-ups and ensure your petit space looks perfectly papered in no time at all. 

In this guide, our experts reveal the materials and tools you need for the job, run down the process in eight steps, and answer commonly asked questions including whether you should paste the wall, or the wallpaper and more.

Any kind of DIY small bathroom idea requires careful thought in practical terms as it can be harder to carry out any kind of creative task when confined to a compact space. Fear not though, armed with our tips and advice, you can expect this to be a stress-free project with brilliant results. 

How to wallpaper a small bathroom for professional results

Bringing in a bathroom trend might present a few additional challenges, especially  when it comes to wallpapering compact areas, but there is no reason to shy away from this project.

Our trusted experts will take you through the simple steps needed to transform your tiny bathroom into one of the most stylish spaces in your home. 

All prices were correct at time of publication.

Paste-the-wall vs. paste-the-paper: Which is better for a small bathroom?

There are two main types of wallpaper that homeowners looking at how to wallpaper a wall tend to consider: ‘paste-the-wall’ and ‘paste-the-paper’. As the names suggest, one involves applying your wallpaper adhesive directly to the wall, while the other requires you to apply paste to the back of the wallpaper. 

The former tends to be easier for DIYers to handle and certainly if you are working in a small space, you are less likely to run into any sticky situations with this option. 

Whether you end up pasting the wall or the paper, don't be afraid of picking a wallpaper you truly love for your DIY project. 

"Small bathrooms are a great place to add personally, specifically through the use of wallpaper," says interior designer Heather Vercellino of Verce Design. "Due to the small space, you can really go bold with color, texture, and prints."

Your shopping list for wallpapering a small bathroom

Tools:

• Sandpaper
• TSP (tri-sodium phosphate) or similar cleaning product such as the concentrated SAVOGRAN Liquid TSP Substitute Cleaner from The Home Depot)
• Wallpaper scissors (try the Kretzer Finny ZipZap long sheers for wallpaper from Amazon which are durable, ergonomic and long-lasting)
• Metal ruler
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Sponge and cloth
• Bucket (we love this collapsible bucket from Amazon which is perfect for stowing away neatly when done and taking minimal space).
• Step ladder
• Drop cloth
• Pasting table (if using paste-the-paper wallpaper)
• Pasting brush (the Amazon Basics Wallpaper Kit contains everything you need, including smoother brush, a snap-off knife, a seam roller, and a plumb bob kit for getting a perfect vertical line)
• Soft-grip handle: the brush’s soft-grip handle helps ensure a secure, comfortable hold
• Paint roller
• Retractable knife such as the WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife from Amazon
• Spirit level or laser level (the RYOBI Multi-Surface Laser Level from The Home Depot is a well-rated budget option)

Materials:

• Wallpaper of choice
• Filler
• Wallpaper primer (such as the Zinsser Shield water based primer at The Home Depot)
• Wallpaper adhesive (unless using peel-and-stick wallpaper). Roman PRO-838 1 Heavy Duty Wallpaper Adhesive from Amazon is clear and contains biocides to help resist the growth of mold and mildew, which is double-handy in humid bathrooms
• Clear varnish (optional)

Step 1: Prep the walls

You want to start with a completely clean slate — not only to make the job easier for you but also to ensure the wallpaper sticks firmly to the wall — with no visible imperfections. 

Remove all hooks, shelves, or any other hardware. Next, scrape away any flaking paint and fill any dents or holes. Finally, brush down the whole surface. The Bates Paint Scraper Painters Tool from Amazon is a good tool for the job. If you have existing paper in place, read up on how to remove wallpaper and get rid of all traces of it before you begin.

Step 2: Apply a primer

Although this step is sometimes skipped, it is a really good idea to use a wallpaper primer before you get papering. Some types of walls (such as unpainted drywall or plaster) are very porous, meaning they will soak up the paste quicker than you can get the paper on the wall. 

The majority of wallpaper primers are white meaning they can show through the seams and become rather obvious with deeper colored papers, which you might use if you are aiming for small dark bathroom ideas. 

Thankfully, there are primers available in other colors so choose one to match your paper — unless you are certain you can do a 100% perfect job of getting your seams spot on. Some primers will dry in as little as an hour, while others need a day to dry out fully.

ROMAN Products Wallpaper Primer from Amazon only needs three hours before hanging the paper. 

Step 3: Measure and cut your wallpaper

Just as when exploring how to tile a small bathroom floor, the task of wallpapering a small bathroom is, in some respects, easier than working with a large space due to the fact that you will have fewer walls to cover. That said, there will also be a few additional challenges, such as the fact that you might find yourself needing to make more cuts.

Start by measuring the drop of your first wall and add on a couple of inches on the top and bottom where you will trim the paper after it has been hung. 

Cut the paper using wallpaper scissors, such as the Qualconnect 11 inch Wallpaper, Fabric Scissors from Amazon. As you are working in a small space it will probably be easier to measure and cut in a different room to avoid standing on your paper.

Step 4: Mark your starting point

Before you can start putting your paper up, you need to mark a perfectly straight vertical line on the wall where you will hang your first wallpaper strip. The line needs to sit the width of your wallpaper strips away from your starting point — so if your paper is fairly standard at 500mm wide, the line should be made 500mm away. 

Use a laser line or spirit level to make sure it is totally straight. Ideally you want to start hanging in one corner, on a wall with no doors or windows, although this won’t always be possible in a small room. 

That said, if your wallpaper ideas involve using a paper with a bold pattern, start in the center of the wall and work outwards.

Step 5: Hang your wallpaper

This next step will very much depend on the type of wallpaper you are using — paste-the-wall or paste-the-paper.

With paste-the-wall paper, following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply the adhesive directly to the section of wall you are about to cover using a roller. Then offer up your strip of wallpaper, lining it up with the pencil line you marked on the wall, adjusting while the paste is still gummy enough to allow movement.

If you are using paste-the-paper wallpaper you should apply the adhesive directly to the paper, working from the center outwards, using a pasting brush — this paste brush from Amazon is easy to use. 

You will then need to fold the paper in on itself concertina style so that the pasted sides are resting on one another, and allow the paste to soak into the paper a little. You can then offer it up to the wall in the same way as for paste-the-wall paper.

In both cases, once you are happy with the positioning of the paper, use a wallpaper brush, a clean roller, or simply the flat of your hand to smooth out the paper and remove any air bubbles.

Step 6: Work around the corners

At some stage you'll probably meet a corner, unless you are only working on feature wall design ideas and are papering just one wall. You want to avoid two strips joining in a corner as it looks messy. 

Measure from the edge of the last strip of paper up to the corner and add 30mm. Cut your wallpaper to this width and then hang it and brush the paper into the corner. You can then line your next strip up where the overhang ends and continue.  

Step 7: Trim the top and bottom of the paper

Push into the crease between the wall and the ceiling and the wall (or base board) using the back of some scissors or a steel ruler such as the Mr. Pen Steel Rulers from Amazon and use a sharp knife to cut off the excess.

Step 8: Finish up

Continue in the same way until you are finished. You will need to make cuts around doorways, windows and sockets and, if they can’t be removed, towel warmers or radiators. Check out some tips for wallpapering around awkward objects if you get stuck.

What to shop

FAQs

What type of wallpaper is best for a bathroom?

You need to be really careful when it comes to getting your bathroom wallpaper ideas spot on that the products you choose are up to the job of handling the high moisture levels that will come their way, especially in a small bathroom.

"Look for wallpapers that are specifically designed for high-moisture environments, like vinyl or sealed paper," advises Giovanni Patania architect director at WindsorPatania Group. "These types are more resistant to peeling, fading and mildew, so they'll hold up better over time. You might also want to consider using a special adhesive or primer that's formulated for bathrooms, just to give your wallpaper some extra staying power."

Vinyl wallpaper is the best choice for humid environments as it is durable and resistant to moisture, explains Julianne Schaefer, interior designer and founder/principal at Collected Studio. She says, "For powder rooms (bathrooms without showers or bathtubs), standard paper can work well. These spaces are perfect for more delicate materials like hand-painted or hand-sewn wallpapers.” 

"The only thing you must consider with this type of wallpaper is that this creates a non-breathable surface that acts as a vapor barrier," warns Corinne Segura, owner and consultant at My Chemical-free House. "This means that if you use AC inside your home and you have hot humid weather outside, this can create a dew point behind the wallpaper and cause mold to form behind it."

The vinyl wallcoverings from Burke Decor come in a huge range of colors and patterns.. She says "For powder rooms (bathrooms without showers or bathtubs), standard paper can work well. These spaces are perfect for more delicate materials like hand-painted or hand-sewn wallpapers.” 

How do you prevent bathroom wallpaper from peeling?

There are a few ways to boost the longevity of your small bathroom wallpaper ideas.

"Keeping the bathroom’s ventilation in mind is really important. Having good air circulation is crucial when it comes to preventing moisture build-up, which can damage wallpaper over time," points out Courtney Cole, interior designer at Tile Cloud. "It might be worth considering installing a better exhaust fan and it's definitely a good idea to start giving your existing one a good and regular clean."

"It’s important in bathrooms to use a wallpaper paste designed for humid conditions, preferably one that is mold and mildew resistant," advises Courney Cole. "Being specially made to resist moisture it helps reduce the risk of peeling or mold development - making sure your wallpaper will look lovely and secure over time."

The Multi Purpose Wallpaper Adhesive Paste from World of Wallpaper is mold resistant and is suitable for most types of wallpaper. 

Should you seal bathroom wallpaper?

If you have chosen not to use a vinyl or sealed wallpaper, you could well benefit from giving your paper a coat of sealer. 

"There are two types of wallpaper that can be used in a bathroom, the first is paper-based and this should not be used 'as is' in a bathroom that has a shower or tub," says Corinne Sugura. "A way to make this type moisture-resistant is to coat the paper-based wallpaper with a clear varnish to protect it and use clear silicone caulk (such as the GE Silicone 1 Tub and Tile, Kitchen and Bath Clear Silicone Caulk from Lowes) at the edges."

What wallpaper makes a small bathroom look bigger?

As well as understanding the best ways to hang wallpaper in a small bathroom, it is also important to choose a color or print that will work well to make the most of the space from a visual perspective to ensure your bathroom ideas are everything you hoped for.

"In small spaces, the colors you pick can make a big impact on how you perceive the size of the room," explains Courtney Cole. "I usually recommend going for lighter colors like whites, grays, beige or light pastels to make the room feel bigger because they help reflect light around more. 

"If you prefer dark colors I'd suggest using them as accents or for trim in the room, because this will keep the eye moving around the room and won’t absorb light like completely decorating with dark wallpaper will.”

"I tend to prefer light colors such as pale blues, soft greens, light grays and whites, which can help to make a small bathroom feel larger and more open," agrees Alice Moszczynski, interior designer at Planner 5D. "Avoid dark colors, as they can make the space feel cramped. As for patterns, subtle designs like delicate florals, small geometric shapes, or textured patterns can add interest without overwhelming the space."

Not everyone agrees, however...

"Bold colors and patterns are excellent choices for smaller bathrooms," says Julianne Schaefer. "In compact spaces, don't be afraid to go big and make it your own jewel box. Hand-painted or hand-sewn wallpapers can add a unique and luxurious touch.”

"Larger scale bold floral wallpapers are a great choice for making a small bathroom feel larger and choosing a dark rich color will add extra depth to your space," agrees Rebecca Drury, co-founder of MissPrint. "It is a misconception that dark colors will make your room feel smaller. Bathrooms are often the smallest room in a home and a great space to have some fun with pattern and colour!"

Malmberg Peel & Stick wallpaper by Three Posts from Walmart features a strong pattern of botanicals and florals that would really pack a visual punch in a small space. 

Meet the experts

There are so many ways to finish off the walls of your small bathroom and while wallpaper is a great way to inject a little character and individuality into the space, you might also like to consider a few small bathroom wall paneling ideas alongside, your choice of paper or paint.

There are lots of reasons why homeowners look into how to paint countertops – but for most people, it’s because they are looking for a cost-effective and quick way to give their existing kitchen a really impactful refresh.

The great news is that all kinds of countertops can be painted – from timber and stone to laminate, meaning that no matter what kind of surface you are working with, this will be an option for you.

If you’re desperate to tie your kitchen countertops in with the rest of your kitchen color ideas, then you’ll be pleased to learn that painting your kitchen countertops is pretty easy to DIY. Ready to get started? Our step-by-step guide will take you through everything you need to get the job done from start to finish. 

How to paint countertops like a pro 

Sometimes all you need is a few small kitchen upgrades to smarten up your cooking space. In this simple step-by-step guide, our trusted experts will take you through all the steps needed to take your tired countertops to stylish surfaces you can be proud of. We’ve also included a list of the tools you’ll need to get the job done.

The equipment you’ll need to paint countertops

Before you pop the lid on that paint tin, arm yourself with the following:

• An all-purpose degreaser (Mrs Myers Clean Day Multi-Surface Cleaner Spray, available from Amazon, was one of the best eco-friendly cleaning products in our round-up)
• Lint cloth
• Sanding block or, to remove some of the elbow grease and depending on the state of your countertops, a power sander
• Painter’s tape
• Protective sheets or drop cloths (Bates Plastic Drop Cloth from Amazon offers good value for money)
• Standard roller, mini roller, and small paintbrush
• Primer and paint designed for your countertop material or a complete countertop refinishing kit (such as the Giani Granite Countertop Paint Kit from Amazon )
• Epoxy or glaze (not always necessary so check the manufacturer's instructions)
• Sealer or topcoat

Step 1: Clean countertops thoroughly

No matter what material your countertops are made from, they need to be sparkling clean before you move on to the next step. Using your all-purpose cleaning spray, make sure you remove all traces of dirt, food, grease, and dust. If you skip this step, the paint just won’t stick properly. 

Once you clean the countertops, dry the surfaces with a lint-free cloth. This is also a good time to repair any areas of damage to get the countertops in as good a condition as possible before painting.

Step 2: Sand your countertops

If you are working with timber countertops you'll definitely need to give them a light sand, but even sanding laminate, tile, and stone will help the primer and paint you are about to apply adhere better. In many cases, an inexpensive sanding block will do the job just fine and the Amazon Basics Rubber Sanding Block is a great budget option. If you want to cut back on labor a little and have a list of other DIY jobs on your to-do list, then you might want to look at investing in a power sander for larger areas. Once done, be sure to wipe or vacuum the surface down.

“For timber, you will need to sand the wood to give the paint a surface to stick to – but you need to make sure the dust is gone before you prime the wood” advises Drew Mansur co-founder and director at TileCloud. “This brings us to priming, which you will need to do to make sure the finish will be smooth and to ensure the paint sticks better.”

Step 3: Protect your kitchen cabinets, walls and floors

You don’t want to end up with splatters of paint ruining your beautiful kitchen flooring ideas or running down the doors of your cabinets, so it is well worth taking a little time to cover them over. 

Use painter's tape between the countertops and walls, as well as around your stove, sink and so on. Dust covers and plastic sheeting draped over the floors and cabinets will protect them while you work.

Step 4: Apply primer to the countertops

If you have purchased a complete countertop refinishing kit you might not need a separate primer, or it may have come with one included. However, many surface materials will benefit from a primer if you want a durable finish that will last. 

"One of the biggest mistakes to make on any surface is to not use a primer," warns Brandon Walker, superintendent at ASAP Restoration LLC. "People think of primer as an unnecessary step that simply costs more without providing any benefit. In reality, primer is one of the most critical steps to ensure that the paint job lasts for years to come."

Using a roller or brush, apply a thin coat of primer and, if you are painting a backsplash too, bring out your mini roller to use on those. The Mister Rui Mini Paint Roller Kit from Amazon would work well. Your small paintbrush will help you to prime awkward corners and around faucets etc. In order to avoid messy brush marks showing up under your paint finish, aim to overlap each stroke a little with the next.

"One of the biggest mistakes you see when painting anything is not giving the primer enough time to fully cure before you start painting," warns Drew Mansur. "I say you should wait three hours before you start painting, but it really depends on the primer you’ve used and the conditions you’re painting in."

Step 5: Apply your first coat of paint

Make sure you have thoroughly stirred your paint or resurfacing coat to get rid of any lumps. Using your rollers and brush and working in the same way as when you applied your primer, coat all areas of your countertop and backsplash. Let it fully dry, according to the instructions. 

Step 6: Apply a second coat of paint

In just the same way as you applied the first coat of paint, apply a second, being careful to keep a wet edge on each pass and dealing with any brush marks, just as you would be advised to do when looking at how to paint kitchen cabinets. 

If you are using a refinishing kit, it may come with decorative finishes such as sparkling flecks or imitation veins to replicate the look of stone, such as marble. In most cases, these are applied after this second coat although some need to be applied while the paint is still wet so check the instructions carefully. Allow to dry.

Step 7: Apply your epoxy or glaze if using

While this step won't always be needed, if your paint or kit requires an application of epoxy or glaze, now’s the time to do it. Most can be rolled or brushed on and then need to be left for 24 hours or so to cure. 

You may then need to sand (wet or dry according to instructions) the countertops until smooth. Before the final step, you will need to wipe the tops off by vacuuming and using a lint-free cloth such as the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloth from Amazon. If they are wet, let them dry.

Step 8: Roll and brush on your topcoat or sealer

You’re almost done. A sealer or topcoat can now be rolled and brushed onto the countertops and will protect your newly painted surfaces meaning you can enjoy them for longer. Let dry and check if another coat is required. 

Step 9: Clean up

Once everything is completely dry, carefully remove the painter’s tape – a sharp utility knife is handy here as it will ensure you don’t just pull off your new paint finish at the same time as the tape.

Clean up your brushes (if you are unsure how to do this then look into how to clean paint brushes first), stand back, and admire your transformed kitchen.

Your shopping basket essentials

FAQs

What is the best paint for countertops?

This very much depends on the type of countertop you are painting. 

“To paint your timber countertops, you’ll need a paint that is durable and wood adhesive,” says Drew Mansur. “I would suggest going for acrylic paint followed by a polyurethane topcoat to give you durability and water resistance.

"For your stone and composite worktops, epoxy paint will be your best option," continues Drew. "This is because it is really durable and will also be resistant to your normal kitchen wear and tear.

"You can paint laminate worktops, but you’ll need a specialized countertop paint or a hard-wearing enamel paint," adds Drew. "This is because laminate is hard for normal paint to adhere to, and these special paints will adhere better and withstand more wear and tear."

"If you want to use an eco-friendly, all-natural paint, linseed oil paint is a good option for painting countertops," suggests Corinne Segura, owner and consultant at My Chemical-free House. "This paint is solvent-free and uses natural linseed oil as the binder. The benefit of this type of paint is that it sticks to any countertop material without a need for a primer. You can use it on wood, plastics (like melamine/laminate), stone, or any other type of countertop. It's also a very durable paint.

"The only downside is that because it contains manganese it’s not safe for direct food contact, so be sure to use cutting boards and serving boards for your food."

If you are working with a compact space, be sure to check out the best paint colors for small kitchens when choosing a shade for your countertops too. 

Should you use food-safe paint for countertops?

"When you’re painting kitchen countertops, make sure you look for paints and sealants that are food safe," advises Drew Mansur. "Usually the manufacturing specs will tell you if they are safe for cooking surfaces. It’s important to know though that you need to let the paint cure completely before using it for one of your cooking surfaces."

"The FDA has created a litmus test for this very conundrum and there are paints that have been specifically approved by the FDA for use in food-related applications," says Brandon Walker. "These are non-toxic formulations that are safe for human consumption should the paint end up in food inadvertently.

"Another factor to consider is the chance of the paint being heated to the point of denaturing," continues Brandon. "If you are planning to paint a surface that may experience extreme heat, then it is important to choose a paint that is formulated to resist degradation when heated.

"Washability is another important consideration when choosing paints that might come into contact with food," further advises Brandon. "If the paint isn’t washable, it might not be the right choice for some surfaces, and, similarly, if it is washable, but not considered safe for food contact, then another option will be best."

How long will painted countertops last?

While painting countertops is a great way give your kitchen a makeover on a budget, there are a few downsides to note. 

"It is important to know though that a painted surface might not survive as long as an original material or replacement might," points out Drew Mansur.

The key to making sure your painted countertops stand the test of time lies in good preparation, using the right paints for the job and following manufacturer instructions for drying and curing times.

You can also care for your countertops by using cutting boards and hot pads shields. Be sure to brush up on how to clean countertops too and avoid any harsh chemical-based cleaning products.

Painting kitchen countertops is a great way to refresh your kitchen on a budget and is definitely a job to add to your list of kitchen makeover ideas. 

Other tasks you might like to consider include painting your cabinets, changing up the wall colors or even hanging wallpaper. Simple things like hanging pictures and introducing houseplants will also make a huge difference. 

When it comes to how to tile a small bathroom floor, it is important to realize that in a more compact space, there will be certain challenges to tackle that homeowners working with larger rooms won’t face – but don’t worry, our guide has you covered. 

From the colors and patterns of tiles you select, to how you arrange them, there are lots of ways to ensure that your bathroom flooring will help make the most of the space you are working with, no matter how tiny it might be.

Small bathroom design might well take a little extra planning and consideration than when working with more generously proportioned spaces, but very often, the need to think creatively in terms of design solutions results in some of the most beautiful outcomes. 

How to tile a small bathroom floor without calling in the pros

Tiling a bathroom floor is a job undertaken by lots of keen DIYers – and if you want to keep costs down on your bathroom remodel the DIY route is definitely one you should consider. 

“You can definitely do your own tiling if you have the right tools and the motivation to get it done on your own, but it can be a tricky process,” says Drew Mansur, co-founder and head of growth at TileCloud.

With our step-by-step guide, even the most novice DIY tiler should have no problems tackling this task to turn their bathroom tile ideas into reality.

What you’ll need to tile a small bathroom floor

Before you begin, make sure you are properly equipped with everything you need to complete the job from start to finish.

Materials:

• Bathroom tile
• Tile adhesive, such as thinset
• Tile and grout sealant (Seal It Green Xtreme-Heavy Duty Pro Strength Grout Sealer from Amazon is a great non-toxic option)
• Tile grout
• Tile spacers
• Decoupling membrane (also known as uncoupling membrane)

Tools:

• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Bucket for mixing adhesive and grout
• Notched trowel (such as Edward Tools Squared Notch Tile and Flooring Trowel from Amazon)
• Rubber tile float
• Laser level (or spirit level or chalk snap line)
• Tile nippers
• Tile cutter (manual, wet saw, or angle grinder, depending on the type of tile)
• Goggles, gloves, and dust mask
• Rubber mallet

1. Prepare the bathroom floor

Before you can begin laying your bathroom tile you need to get your floor in good condition. Much of the prep work needed will depend on the type of subfloor you have and its current state. If you skip this step you risk tiles lifting and cracking later on down the line. If you have existing tiles, don’t attempt to lay new tiles on top – instead, find out how to remove floor tiles first.

“Make sure that the surface is clean and level, and that it doesn’t have any debris before starting,” says Drew Mansur. “If you don’t do this, there might be issues with how the tiles lay or how long they last.”

Floors are usually either timber or concrete. In the case of concrete floors, you should first sweep the floor free of dust and debris before cleaning it with warm water. When dry, fill any cracks with a cement patching compound and trowel. For larger cracks use a suitable leveling compound. A floor leveling compound will sort out any small uneven areas but be sure to let it dry before tiling and don’t forget to apply a concrete sealer.

If you have timber floors, begin by checking for areas of water damage and replace these sections with new marine-grade plywood. In a small bathroom, water damage might have spread out to all areas of the floor.

If you are tiling onto existing timber floorboards, you will need to fit boards made of exterior-grade plywood on top. When screwing or nailing this down, be aware that you are working over pipes and wires so use a detector such as the FNIRSI Premium Wall Scanner available from Amazon to avoid damaging them.

2. Fix a decoupling membrane over your subfloor

Although some people do skip this stage, most people see it as an extra step not to be missed and you should definitely use a decoupling membrane if you are tiling over underfloor heating.

Decoupling membranes are thin sheets that can easily be cut to fit and sit between the subfloor and the tiles to prevent movement affecting the tiles, causing them to crack or lift. Some also protect the subfloor from moisture, such as Waterproof Membrane Uncoupling Membrane for Under Tile from Amazon.

Although it is often thought that decoupling membrane is only necessary for large bathroom floors, it is also well worth installing in small bathrooms. Simply measure your bathroom floor then cut the membrane to fit. It can then be fixed to the subfloor using adhesive mortar – such as thin-set – that has been troweled on, pressing it down into the mortar and scraping off excess to leave a smooth surface before allowing it to set. Lie separate sheets parallel to one another without any overlapping.

Plan and design your tile layout

Before starting the job of tiling the floor, you need to work out the layout for the tiles – something that is more important than ever when it comes to small bathroom flooring ideas if you want to avoid too many cuts and a design that does the space justice. 

“Make sure that you lay out the tiles and plan the layout well before you start the job, otherwise you might end up with gaps near the walls that are permanent,” warns Drew Mansur. 

“Geometric and diagonal layouts can make a floor look wider, so these are good patterns to consider in a small space. The format is important too, so try to look for tiles that are large-format to have fewer grout lines, which will also make the floor space look larger.”

Using a measuring tape, chalk snap line, or the vertical line of a laser level, find the center point of your room. The IRWIN Tools STRAIT-LINE Chalk Line from Amazon offers good value for money.

4. Dry-fit your tile

Before committing to any tile patterns you should dry-fit your tile to find the best final layout. Start from the center and work outwards toward the corners of the room to avoid any uneven cuts – and don’t forget to place spacers between each tile for accuracy. Play around until you get a layout you are happy with and aim to avoid any cut tiles being placed in the more visible areas of the room. Ideally, you want to make sure that your edge tile is at least half the width of a whole tile.

Use a pencil and ruler to mark out your cut lines and don't forget to take into account spacers and grout lines. 

5. Measure around obstacles and cut your tiles

Now comes the time to cut your tiles. In small bathrooms, if you are using ceramic or porcelain tile, you will usually only need a manual tile cutter, or snap cutter. A glass cutter – a small hand tool with sharp wheels that can cut ceramic or glass tile – can also work well.

If you are remodeling you might find you have existing features such as door jambs to navigate. This means you are going to need to make cuts in your tile for them to fit neatly around them. A tile scribe and tile nipper can be used for cutting tile to fit around obstacles. The QEP 9 in. Compound Tile Nipper from Amazon is made with tungsten carbide tips and is suitable for all tile types.

Ideally, you should be tiling underneath the sink, toilet, and so on rather than around them for a neater finish.

6. Fix your tile into place

If you dry-fitted your tile like you should have, you will already have your central starting point. 

Using your notched trowel, evenly spread enough thin-set or the best tile adhesive for your tiles the first time, then butter the back of the tile itself before laying the tile and tapping it down gently with your hand or rubber mallet. Using your spirit level, check that the tile is level in all directions and carefully wipe away any excess adhesive with a damp cloth. 

Repeat this process for the whole floor, placing tile spacers as you go. You want to place your cut tiles last and if you can’t reach over your newly laid tiles to get to the spots these are being fitted then wait until they are dry to avoid putting any weight on them. Check the drying times recommended for the tile adhesive you have used.

7. Apply sealant if required

If you have chosen natural stone tiles, these will usually need to be sealed before you can grout as they stain easily. Check that the sealant you use is suitable for your tile material first. StoneTech Bulletproof Sealer from Amazon is suitable for natural stone, tile, and grout. 

Clean the tile, allow it to dry and then apply your chosen sealer using a clean paintbrush.

8. Apply your grout to the tiles

Having removed your spacers, it is time to finish off your tiles neatly by applying your grout. 

“Make sure to let the adhesive cure fully before you start grouting (usually this will be 24 hours), otherwise the tiles might shift and become uneven,” warns Drew Mansur. “Use a rubber tile float to work and push the grout into the gaps between the tiles, pulling the float towards you across the face of the tile. If you are using a grout that requires you to add water to a power mix, only make up as much as you can use in around 15-20 minutes as it may get too hard and be difficult to apply. For DIYers, ready-mixed grouts can be an easier option."

Opinion is divided on how to grout tiles, and in particular this next step. Some people prefer to use a wet cloth or sponge to clean off excess grout before the grout between the gaps has fully dried as it can be hard to remove once fully set. Others prefer to wait until the grout lines have fully cured before wiping the entire surface over with a grout haze remover. 

Either way, once everything is set, clean off the tile and allow it to dry.

9. Apply sealer to the grout

Applying a grout sealer will prevent water seeping through and getting beneath.

FAQs

What is the best tile for a small bathroom?

The tile you choose for your bathroom needs to make the most of the space you have available, but you also need to think about the overall look you are going for – for example, if you are aiming for modern small bathroom ideas, the tiles you choose will be different from those after classic schemes.

“Your tiles will have a pretty big impact on how big the room will feel, and for smaller spaces, your best bet is to go for lighter colors,” advises Drew Mansur. “Lighter options like whites, light grays, or pastels will help spread light and make the room look bigger. If you prefer darker colors though, consider using them as accent tiles rather than the main tile color.

“Small bathrooms, such as powder rooms, are an opportunity to unleash your creativity with a tile floor design. If you choose a classic color mix of tile, like black and white. you’ll have infinite possibilities for tile size and installation patterns but a timeless color combination that can adapt to different bathroom wall colors and accessories,” suggests Julie Taylor Interior Designer at FLOOR360. “If you’re going for a creative personalized floor tile pattern it’s wise to find a flooring showroom that can create an AutoCAD drawing and provide installation expertise so you can approve the exact floor tile pattern to scale and order the accurate quantity."

What size tile is best in a small bathroom?

Choosing the right size tiles for a small bathroom needs to be a priority if you want the room to feel as spacious and bright as it can.

It is something of a myth that large tile makes a room feel smaller – in fact, very often, with fewer grout lines to busy the look of the floor, they can actually help create a sense of space. That said, everything from the shape of the room to the amount of natural light coming in will have an effect.

Small tiles might seem like a good idea, but those that feature a busy pattern or that are super tiny – meaning lots of grout lines – can feel a bit overwhelming. If you have your eye on some mosaic or highly patterned tiles and are worried about how they will look, just use them as an accent detail, such as a border, backsplash, or in a shower enclosure instead.

“Choosing the type of tile for a small bathroom can be a challenge, especially since the goal is usually to make the space feel bigger,” says Brandon Walker, superintendent at ASAP Restoration LLC “One of the best ways to pick tile types is to decide if your space feels more open or enclosed with large or small format tiles. It can honestly go either way depending on the space involved.”

Do I need a decoupling membrane in a small bathroom?

There are many benefits to using a decoupling (also known as uncoupling) membrane. They protect tiles from cracking should the substrate move, some provide waterproofing and certain products also offer sound reduction and help with thermal insulation. 

Some people think that it is unnecessary to use a decoupling membrane in a small space, but while it is definitely true that they should always be used in large bathrooms, the substrate you are working with is more important than the size of your bathroom. 

Cracked concrete substrates, timber subfloors and even newly installed concrete slab all have the potential to move, shrink and swell which could well cause your tiles to crack. In short, to be safe, it is best to use one.

What kind of tile cutter will I need?

As you are only working with a small space, the kind of tile cutter you need will be different to if you were cutting a large number of tiles for a big room.

A glass cutter, manual tile cutter (or snap cutter) and tile nipper will usually do the job just fine.

Electric angle grinders are recommended if you are going to be making lots of curved cuts or will be working around items such as a toilet, sink or bathtub.

A wet saw is unlikely to be needed for a small bathroom but if you need to know how to tile a floor in a larger space then this is one tool you are likely to see recommended.

Meet the experts

In many ways, tiling a small bathroom floor is not all that different from tiling the floors of larger rooms – the key to success lies in choosing colors, patterns, and layouts that will make the space feel restful.

One word of caution here, make sure you have enough tile to complete the job, and don’t forget to account for accidents – this is just as important for those after kitchen tile ideas as it is when dealing with a bathroom.

“I always advise homeowners to purchase more tile than the job requires for those ‘just-in-case moments,” says Julie Taylor. “Unexpected or unforeseen damage to the tile during or after installation can be a pain, but having extra tile makes it easy to replace the tiles without searching for a match. 

“You can expect to pay a minimum of $10 - $20 per square foot for a quality porcelain tile and upwards of $35-$55 square foot for the installation labor if not doing it yourself. A skilled tile installer will charge more for intricate patterns or small mosaics.”

A new Emily Henderson wallpaper hack has graced our social media feeds, and the renter-friendly method uses an unlikely source to zhuzh up walls: fabric. 

Instead of traditional pasted or peel-and-stick wallpaper, the designer reveals how to transform any room with textiles, water, and starch, making it a damage-free way for renters to decorate their walls. Our experts reveal how to do it in four simple steps, plus the supplies you'll need to recreate this dreamy look.

While the best peel-and-stick wallpaper continues to serve renters well for style and damage-free results, now you can turn any print you love into statement wall decor.

See the Emily Henderson wallpaper hack in action

Gretchen Raguse, an Emily Henderson Design employee, decided to give this method a go when contemplating easy small bedroom upgrades.

She paired a moody green vintage floral print with zen pieces: a rattan headboard, blue bed sheets, and wooden nightstands. Her brass table lamp, similar to the Alden Décor Dome Iron Table Lamp from Bed, Bath, & Beyond, adds the perfect touch to her sleep space. 

Watch below to see the easy small bedroom DIY project come to life. 

Instead of wallpaper and some sort of adhesive, use fabric and a water and starch mix to put up this renter-friendly small space DIY feature. You can later take it own damage-free, keeping your landlord happy, and your walls immaculate.

Exactly how to hang wallpaper varies depending on the type of wallpaper. Here's what you'll need to go the fabric DIY route, like Emily Henderson and her team:

Supplies you'll need

• A lightweight textile of your choice
• Fiskars Scissors 8" Bent Right-Handed Scissors from Walmart
• Edward Tools Hand Paint Roller and Cover 9” from Amazon
• Purex Sta-Flo Concentrated Liquid Starch, 64 oz from Amazon
• Sterilite 8 Qt. Plastic Dishpan from Walmart
• Amazon Basics Tape Measure 16' from Amazon
• 4' x 15' All Purpose Canvas Drop Cloth by CCS CHICAGO CANVAS & SUPPLY from Amazon

Step 1: Prep your space

Clear out any furniture that will get in the way of you reaching the walls you're working on and lay down painters sheets or drop cloths to protect your floors and belongings from drips. Remove dust, cobwebs, and any loose debris from your walls. A HBTower Step Ladder, 2 Step Stool from Amazon might come in handy for tricky corners. 

Prep your tools: you'll need a tray for your combo of liquid starch and water, a paint roller, painters tape to hang the fabric (a stapler works too, but will leave permanent marks), a measuring tape to plan out each panel's size, fabric scissors to cut, and a spray bottle filled with your liquid mix -- if any parts of the wall look a little bubbly throughout the application process, spray the mix to smooth things out.

As fun as it might be to select colorful patterns and interesting designs, do keep in mind that the type of fabric you work with is important. 

"Select lightweight textiles to make it easier when applying them on the walls," says  designer Artem Kropovinsky. "Also they should be in line with the design and lighting of the room."

Step 2: Measure and cut your fabric

Start by measuring your wall, then cutting the appropriate sized panels from your chosen fabric, making them a bit longer than necessary. You can trim them later for a perfect fit as we all know walls and floors are rarely super straight. 

If you want the fabric to be super flat and wallpaper like, steam-iron your panels to get any creases out (the BLACK+DECKER Steam Iron with Retractable Cord from Target will do nicely).

"Of course like any wallpaper, make sure the walls are clean, smooth, and patched up if there are any holes before application," says designer Chantelle Hartman Malarkey. "Make sure your lines are cut straight, or else the eyes will always be drawn to the imperfection."

Step 3: Mix paste and hang

The next step for this bedroom wallpaper idea is hanging the fabric. Use painter's tape to temporarily place your fabric in the proper position.

Mix the paste (an adhesive-free combination of half water and half liquid starch), and use a roller to paste over the top of the fabric, leaving your walls untouched. The amount needed will vary depending on the size of your wall, so grab an extra bottle if you're working with a lot of space. According to Emily and her team, you can rolling directly on top of your dry, hanging panel, provided the fabric you're working with is not too thick. 

"Using fabric as wallpaper creates an incredible and unique aesthetic to any room," says Antonia O’Hara Founder of Indigo by Boutin. "We suggest using liquid starch to install in order to easily change it down the road if you ever want to switch up the design."

And as far as styling, Antonia is all about the bright, bold route. 

"I think using a bold fabric, preferably a block print design really allows it to take over the room," she adds. "From there you can use more neutral pieces so that the room does not look too overwhelming."

Step 4: Tidy up panels

Once your fabric wallpaper paste has dried and the panels secure, use scissors to cut away any excess and remove the painters tape that had been holding things in place. Your fabric wallpaper should stay firmly put. 

Make sure to open windows and put on fans during the drying process, which should take several hours, but to be extra certain everything is in place properly, Emily and her team suggest waiting about a day. Use a trimmer to cut away any excess fabric or fabric that goes over switches, windows, etc. 

When all is said and done and you're ready to move, simply pull the wallpaper/fabric off the wall and enjoy a clean wall, keeping landlords happy. If you're curious, Emily says the panels of fabric can be used again. 

Looking to get even more creative with your wallpaper? Allow our DIY experts to assist. They'll instruct you on how to use peel-and-stick wallpaper for a major furniture upgrade and how to tackle out-of-the-ordinary wallpaper project ideas to make a statement.

Wondering how to decoupage? The paper crafting technique is back on trend, with more people making mindful makes in their homes. 

I tried out the technique myself, and trust me when I say it's so easy to do. I'll guide you through the steps on how to do it with a tin can and coasters, but you can decoupage many surfaces — even furniture (yes, really)!

If you're looking for small space DIYs, decoupage is renter-friendly, fun to do, and the result is very rewarding, too.

How to decoupage in seven easy steps

Decoupage is the craft of decorating an object with cut-out paper pieces by gluing them onto the surface. I love this as an easy spring DIY idea to bring floral prints into the home, but you could definitely decoupage for any season.

You'll also find shoppable products you'll need to for this crafty DIY indicated throughout my guide. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Step 1: Gather your supplies

You don't need too many supplies for this  — in fact, you can even recycle items you have around your home.

You will need:

• Your decoupage item — I used both a washed tin can and a set of coasters similar to these Goh Dodd Coasters on Amazon.
• Decoupage paper — you can buy specific paper, but I recycled an old magazine. You could also use newspaper, tissue paper, and rice paper.
• Paint — I recommend using an acrylic paint, such as this Angelus Acrylic Paint with over 29,000 reviews on Amazon.
• An all-rounder glue, sealer, and varnish — I used matte Modge Podge from Amazon.
• Decoupage paint brushes — these Modge Podge Brushes are Amazon's Choice.
• A plate for the paint.
• Scissors — I like how budget-friendly these Westcott Scissors from Walmart are.
• Kitchen towel.

Step 2: Paint your items

I decorated a tin and coasters in our tutorial, but there are other items you can use decoupage on. 

“Other items suitable for decoupage include vases, jars, plates, planters, and old photo frames,” explains Amy Tuntasood, home designer, DIYer, and founder of Salem Home Designs. You can even transform the appearance of a lamp base with decoupage.”

Once you've chosen your item, lay it out item on some kitchen towel to protect your surfaces and then give it a coat of paint. Squeeze the paint onto a plate you don't mind having paint on, dab your brush in, and get going.

If you're creating a collage on your decoupage piece and think you might have some of the surface peeking out, you can paint it a solid color such as white (this Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint from Walmart is just under a dollar). 

Alternatively, you can use your all-purpose sealer as a primer instead, if you want to leave the surface bare.

Step 3: Cut out your paper pieces

Find the piece of patterned paper you want to use for decoupage (I like this floral Perkoop Decoupage Paper Set from Amazon) and cut it accordingly. 

You could use a solid piece of paper and cut it to size to wrap around your piece like we did on the tin can. As well as this, you could always cut out individual elements of the paper to create a collage on your piece, such as what we did with the coasters. If you do this, be sure to cut them out neatly for a clean finish.

From here, lay out the paper pieces next to the item you want to decoupage so you have a clear idea of what's going to go where.

Step 4: Stick on your pieces

Dip your decoupage brush carefully into the glue and wipe off any excess before doing this. Then, flip the piece of paper you want to stick onto your item and paint the glue onto the back. 

You'll want to make sure the surface is fully covered, rather than just doing a couple of dabs, so it sticks on properly. 

Then, lay it onto your item carefully. Be sure to use your finger to smooth out pieces wherever possible. We could have done a neater job of this!

Repeat this step for each piece until your decoupage item is fully covered.

Step 5: Paint on finish glue

This step is a little bit similar to adding a glaze to pottery. It makes sure the finish is smart and the paper is fully smoothed down.

Using a larger decoupage brush, brush the whole surface with your finish glue. A finisher like Mod Podge will fully dry clear, so don't worry about it looking white when you paint it on.

Step 6: Leave to dry

You'll want to leave your decoupaged item to dry before doing anything else. I left mine for 12 hours to ensure they were fully dry and placed them on a plate with a sheet of kitchen towel in case any excess glue dripped off. 

You can dab your finger carefully onto the item to check if it's tacky or not before moving it to your desired place.

Step 7: Decorate as you please

Voila — your decoupage piece is done! 

I placed some dried flowers in my tin can and laid it next to the coasters as cute spring decor on the dining table, but you can also use your objects as small kitchen ideas and small office ideas.

FAQs

How to decoupage furniture?

As well as smaller pieces such as the vase I carried out this DIY decoupage project on, you can also decoupage larger items such as furniture. 

“Begin by sanding down or buffing the furniture to prepare it. Then, apply chalk paint in a color of your choice,” says Amy.

For decoupage, Amy advises using Mod Podge (such as this dishwasher-safe Mod Podge from Amazon) as a go-to adhesive due to its ease of use. 

“Apply a layer of Mod Podge, followed by your chosen floral or patterned material,” she says.

Then, let it dry before adding a finishing layer of Mod Podge.

Learning how to decoupage is useful for creating beautiful pieces throughout your home, whether you're looking for spring mantel decor ideas or want to learn how to upcycle a furniture piece with a vintage look.

If you want to carry on crafting and making pretty pieces, find out how to make a spring wreath.

Freddie Mercury's house in London is up for sale for a colossal $38 million but eye-watering price tag aside, one color theme jumps out at the Real Homes team — opulent gold. The famous Queen frontman's signature color can work beautifully in small spaces, too.

Freddie purchased the Neo-Georgian style home in Kensington, London, in 1980, and hired interior designer Robin Moore to make it every bit as lavish as you'd expect. Our color experts explain how to best use gold in your home, no matter how little the square footage.

It just so happens that saturated jewel tones are one of the most popular 2024 small space color trends, so let's channel Freddie in our own adobes and feel like the champions we are.

Step inside Freddie Mercury's house

"Vibrant yellow shades can be intimidating because they’re not an easy color to work with due to their intensity, but I always love seeing it in homes when used right," says Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Williams' director of color marketing. 

Experts at Knight Frank believe Freddie Mercury's house in London captures a bit of his childhood by way of color, with the gold having perhaps reminded the singing legend of living in Zanzibar and India as a young boy.

But given that our spaces aren't on a grand scale like Freddie's, and gold has been coined one of the worst colors for small spaces if used incorrectly, it's wise to execute our ideas appropriately and with care.

"Vivid yellow shades are often used sparingly, such as on accent walls, doors, or in accessories," says Hannah Yeo, senior manager, color marketing at Benjamin Moore. "Even in small doses, they make a significant impact, particularly in kitchens, kids’ rooms, and creative spaces."

In Freddie Mercury's house, we're greeted immediately by gold, which might not necessarily be one of the best paint colors for a small entryway. 

You can, however, embrace the radiance by way of gold furniture, peel-and-stick wallpaper, and fun decor accents, like Yeo suggests. The TBTBGXQ 3-in-1 Hall Tree for Entryways on Amazon adds a bit of gold while keeping the space organized and functional. 

Pair the color with Simon's Shop Baroque Picture Frame on Amazon for an elevated, luxe look à la Freddie. 

One of the best places to use gold is in the dining room, just as the beloved frontman did. 

"A lively color is always great to use in spaces used for entertainment to bring out some personality," Sue adds. "We are also starting to see designers paint kitchen cabinets in golden yellow hues. The look is cheerful, yet unexpected and a warm update to a kitchen trend that has been focused on biophilia and natural materials. We love the boost of yellow in those applications!"

If you're weighing colorful small kitchen ideas, perhaps Freddie's designs can be your guide. And to get the sophisticated yet cozy feel, incorporate fun vintage elements into the mix as well, like frames, wall art, and home accents.

Gold paint samples to try

Freddie left his home and possessions to his best friend Mary Austin — the inspo behind Queen's iconic song, "You're My Best Friend" — when he passed away in 1991. Now, she's hoping it serves as another owner's creative muse.  

"This house has been the most glorious memory box, because it has such love and warmth in every room," she says in the press release. "Ever since Freddie and I stepped through the fabled green door, it has been a place of peace, a true artist’s house, and now is the time to entrust that sense of peace to the next person."

All it needs now is somebody to love. As for us, we'll now be testing gold paint swatches throughout our small spaces.

If you're not afraid of a little elbow grease, renter-friendly small space DIYs are worth a try. No matter if you're a beginner, we've got you covered with ideas you can easily do.

We've spoken with interior designers and DIY pros who love getting creative in small spaces to find out what dreamy ways you can add sparkle with clever crafts. Elevating furniture for more space and transforming surfaces with peel-and-stick tiles are just a couple of tricks they use.

You don't need to spend a lot to add stunning small space interior design ideas. In fact, the ones you create yourself will give you a home you can be proud of.

Renter-friendly small space DIYs you can do with ease

From ways to make your small room look bigger, to clever hacks for concealing unsightly pieces, our experts have got you covered with useful tips.

Where our experts have suggested any specific products you need for DIYing, we've also found matching buys.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Lift up your bed or couch

Big bulky furniture pieces like beds and couches can take up a lot of room, leaving not much room for small space storage solutions. That is unless you try this trick.

“You can elevate your bed or sofa slightly and incorporate sliding storage bins or drawers, effectively turning that unused space into discreet storage for shoes, linens, or seasonal items,” says Raf Michalowski, interior designer and founder of Meble Furniture.

All you need for this are heavy-duty riser blocks, which you can either build yourself from leftover wood or get from a store (such as these Annkut Furniture Risers from Amazon).

From here, lift your furniture piece, place these around the edges of where it normally sits, and place it back. Boom — you’ve created discreet storage space.

2. Hang up shelves with adhesive strips

Utilizing vertical space is one of our top tips for smaller homes. As a renter, you may be thinking you can’t do this — but we’ve got you covered with a magic tip.

“Save space and don't drill into walls by using floating shelves that attach to the wall with sticking adhesive strips,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

Our favorite adhesive strips have to be these damage-free Command Strips on Amazon, as they’re super strong and will leave your walls intact.

Artem adds shelves are perfect for use in showing ornaments, books, or your best indoor plants.  You can create your own shelves by cutting down wooden planks to size, sanding them down, and painting them in gorgeous small space paint colors.

3. Create a gallery wall to distract from sockets

One of the most annoying things about living in a rental has to be not being able to change fittings such as sockets. Why are they all in such random spots, right?

“I like to add gallery walls to hide strangely placed sockets, as you can either hang photo frames on sockets you aren’t using, or hang multiple pictures to distract from them,” says Tommy Mello, home improvement expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

Choosing gorgeous, eye-catching prints will not only draw attention away from sockets, but will also elevate the decor in your desired room.

4. Liven up walls with peel-and-stick wallpaper

While your contract may say no paint, we bet it doesn’t say anything about not using the best peel-and-stick wallpaper. 

Artem explains, “Enliven your walls with indoor wallpaper that is easy to install and remove. This is a good method to create textures or patterns without the obligation of regular wallpaper.”

You could do this as just an accent wall for a subtle pop or even cover the whole area for maximum impact.

5. Hide wires with baskets

Unfortunately, there is no way to make wires look good — which is why we’re loving this way of hiding them.

Tommy says, “One of my top tips for unattractive wires and cables is adding a basket on top of them.”

You can do this by cutting out a slot on either end of the basket, so the wire can easily fit through. 

If you don’t have a basket to hand, these Honey-Can-Do baskets on Amazon would work perfectly. It's especially effective for hiding cables on TV stands, making the whole unit look sleek and sophisticated.

6. Add pizazz with peel-and-stick tiles

You might not be able to add heavy tiles, but peel-and-stick tile ideas can still have a similar effect on your small kitchen or small bathroom splashback.

Artem explains, “You can create a reinvention of your kitchen’s backsplash and bathroom floor using peel-and-stick tiles.”

“They are easy to install and take off which makes them ideal for renters who want to improve their space temporarily,” he adds.

We've got these Nexus Peel and Stick Tiles from Amazon in our baskets, which will make any small space look luxe affordably.

7. Cover up your radiator

There’s nothing like an old, several-times-painted run-down radiator to ruin the look of a perfectly good rental. 

“Instead, you can DIY your own cover out of wood, aluminum, or particle board to hide old metal radiators, and give your room an elevated, built-in shelf look,” says Amanda Wiss, design expert and founder of Urban Staging and Urban Clarity.

She adds, “When you move out, just slip the cover off and your landlord will never know.”

8. Change up your doorknobs and cabinet pulls

They say the devil is always in the detail, and by adding chic touches to your doors and drawers, you’ll be able to make them look ultra-refined without having to spend too much.

Amanda explains, “If you’re not a fan of your standard issue doorknobs and cabinet pulls, visit your local hardware store for alternatives. These can be switched out and stored in a safe place for when you move out and put them back.”

For cabinets we love these vintage-vibe Aobite Cabinet Pulls on Amazon, while for door knobs these glitzy CLCTK Glass Door Knobs are Amazon's Choice.

If you aren’t confident doing this and don’t want to upset your landlord, you could always learn how to upcycle a furniture piece and add swish additions to it instead.

Even in a rental, just a couple of quick DIY solutions can raise the game of how it looks.

Raf finishes by saying, “Small spaces present a canvas for inventive DIY solutions which seamlessly blend style and function.”

If you’re looking for even more crafty inspiration, we also recommend these pro-approved small living room DIY ideas for making this room more inviting. 

Window glazing options are often an overlooked part of your kitchen extension. From aluminium sliding doors designed to create an almost unbroken wall of glass, to stackable slide-and-turn doors, and customizable bi-fold doors — there’s something for every home. 

With interior designers often dubbing the kitchen the heart of the home, it pays dividends to flood this space with natural sunlight and give it some architectural TLC.

For nearly 25 years, IDSystems has been manufacturing innovative and multi-award-winning glazed solutions. This includes end-to-end management of design, manufacture, supply, installation, and support. So you can rest assured, its experienced team will guide you through the entire planning process, wherever you are in the UK.

From eye-catching features to energy-efficient properties, discover how its doors open up a world of possibilities for your kitchen extension project.

IDSystems' window glazing options

Aluminium sliding doors

A popular choice, IDSystems' award-winning aluminium sliding doors offer the ultimate in modern design and functionality. These characteristics of the doors include slender frames, beautifully large glass panes, and exceptional performance, winning over the most discerning homeowners. Sightlines can be as narrow as 20mm, and individual panels up to 3m wide.

When open, they extend living areas onto patios and create a fluid entertaining space. They have surpassed bifold doors in popularity for various projects, whether it's replacing existing patio doors, incorporating them into kitchen extensions, or quite literally showing off your self-build in its best light. Both the EDGE 2.0 and Grand Slider II provide exceptional views of your garden, whether you want to keep an eye on the kids in the summer or watch the snowfall from a warm space in winter.

Unlike squeakily stiff or fragile patio doors of the past, these German-engineered running carriages open smoothly. And, the option to recess the tracks into the floor allows for a flush finish without compromising protection from quintessentially British wet and windy weather. 

Bi-fold doors

Many people assume that only large homes can have bi-folds fitted, but that’s simply not the case. They are an idyllic way to maximise space in a small kitchen. Aside from brightening up a meal-preparation zone, these aluminium or timber-clad doors can be installed inwards to accommodate courtyards and even apartment balconies. 

IDSystems can work with you to create a personalised design that can open both ways, to the left, right, or from the centre to each end. You can even add custom-made, cord or magnetic-controlled Venetian or pleated blinds for added privacy.

Bifolds also support energy efficiency reflect heat, reduce sun glare on sunny days, and help keep the cold out in winter — therefore reducing your energy bills.

Slide-and-turn doors

Vistaline slide and turn doors (also known as slide and swing doors) are manufactured in the UK, with Swiss innovation. Unlike classic bi-folds, this product is made from individual, non-connected, stackable panels that completely open up the aperture of your home with unique, flipper seal technology. 

Choose from two single-glazed frameless glass partitions or a double-glazed, non-thermally broken option that also acts as a room divider. These very doors were selected as the ‘Best of the Best’ in the Let the Light in category of the Real Homes Awards 2021.

Heritage doors

By now you’ve realised doors aren’t just a swinging or sliding barrier between rooms. And, if you’re looking to amp up the style for your next gathering, opt for, steel-look heritage doors. 

Whether you choose a bifold, sliding, or French door configuration, these will give your space that sought-after look you might have seen on social media.

This Art-Deco style works particularly well in period homes but also bridges old and new in contemporary self-build properties. As well as black and grey powder-coated polyester finishes, you can choose from over 200 RAL colours. Dual and textured finishes are available too. 

FAQs

Are patio doors and sliding doors the same?

For kitchen extensions and home improvement projects generally, the term patio doors has been used to cover a wide range of different product types, ranging from French doors to sliding doors covering a wide range of different manufacturers. 

Typically, the term has referred to smaller openings of under three metres and is a throwback to previous generations of uPVC or aluminium frames. To distinguish the latest technology and the most advanced design features (including thermally broken aluminium frames) the term sliding doors is now more typically used.

Do I need triple glazing for a kitchen extension?

The glazing specification required for an extension project will vary depending on the window glazing option you choose. 

Building Regulations Part L, which covers thermal efficiency standards, currently requires overall U-values of 1.4W/m²K for extension projects which can be achieved on IDSystems' range of doors using double glazing. 

Whilst triple glazing can offer more advanced levels of thermal performance it comes at a cost, both in terms of the initial price and the size of glazing that can be achieved, meaning you may need to compromise on the size of the panels if you opted for triple glazing.

Why choose IDSystems?

All of IDSystems' glazed windows are police-approved and prioritise security. They feature a continuous locking bar, a five-point mushroom bolt, a claw lock, an anti-lifting device, and a robust interlock between panels. So you don't have to choose between aesthetics or keeping your loved ones safe.

Contact IDSystems

For more information about IDSystems’ range of award-winning glazed doors, visit www.idsystems.co.uk, email your architect's drawings to info@idsystems.co.uk, or, call 01603 408804.

Hey Upper East Siders, have you gotten a glimpse of Ed Westwick's house renovation yet? 

The Gossip Girl alumni, who brought the role of the entitled Chuck Bass to life, just got engaged to girlfriend Amy Jackson and completed a nine-month-long home renovation. Trust us when we say the end result will knock your socks off. 

The interior is every minimalist's Pinterest board brought to life, and unsurprisingly, the home encompasses all of 2024's small space interior trends Are we really surprised that Chuck nailed the style assignment? Not in the least. As the Gossip Girl narrator would say,"XOXO."

Ed Westwick's house is a minimalist dream

As we can tell from Amy Jackson's time-lapse on TikTok, the minimalist living room with mid-century hints was brought to life slowly but surely. It embraces neutral tones, a small space color trend gaining popularity right now, inviting lighting, and exudes an airy, calming feel overall. There are bouclé stools, indoor plants, rattan chairs, and of course, a touch of nostalgia. 

Vintage is back in a big way, according to 2024 TikTok interior trends, and we get a sense of that with small accents throughout Ed and Amy's living room, like their wooden piano and ceramic horse statue. It's the perfect blend of old meets new. And overall, it looks crisp and fresh, much like Ed's beloved character, Chuck Bass.

"On TikTok, people are bringing vintage styles and incorporating them into modern spaces," Ricky Allen, interior designer and founder of Ever Wallpaper, told Real Homes' writer Eve Smallman. "This trend also ties in with sustainability, as secondhand items are being given a new life."

After nearly a year at work, the couple coined the final result as their "dream home," and we'd say that's an understatement, but then again, we are talking about minimalism, so that tracks.

What to shop

If this neutral living room has inspired a few ideas, we can't say we're surprised. If you're attempting a similar aesthetic with your own small living room, modernize your outdated space with selections below: 

Looking for ways to get a better look in your gathering space? Designers revealed the small living room design rules that are absolute dealbreakers, so don't do any restyling without reading these pointers first. 

Knowing how to create wall storage ideas to utilize every inch of vertical space can feel challenging, especially if you live in a rental property or aren’t confident when it comes to DIY. 

To make adding wall storage a little easier, we’ve spoken to a panel of experts who’ve shared a selection of clever solutions. From low-cost options, such as installing hooks, to drill-free peel and stick floating shelves, our experts have smart wall storage ideas for every room and budget. 

Using vertical wall space will go a long way in organizing a space and making each room work for your storage needs.

How to create wall storage ideas 

The pros have shared all their best advice for maximizing wall space with a range of options, including adding renter-friendly shelves, in any part of your home, while also creating on-wall storage solutions that are as functional as they are stylish. 

1. Utilize hooks

Hooks offers an inexpensive and easy storage solution for keeping items organized and work seamlessly to take advantage of vertical space. They’re simple to install and quick to set up, and if you pick the right ones they’re also renter-friendly.

Organizing expert, Amy Bloomer says, “One of my favorite tips is to utilize hooks, especially, Command Hooks (such as these large matte black peel and stick Command Hooks from Amazon, which can hold up to 4 lbs).”

“They used to be just white and plastic, but now make them in all different shapes and finishes (we love this extra large Command hook in brushed nickel from Amazon) that look and feel like real hardware.” 

Amy explains that she uses peel and stick hooks to hang everything from backpacks and handbags to coats, towels and umbrellas, adding, "It keeps things easy to find, within reach, aesthetically pleasing and doesn’t involve any special tools to install.”

2. Add shelves

Shelves are a fantastic solution for adding stylish wall storage space that’s flexible and customizable. They’re also an extremely versatile solution that works just as well in the bedroom as they do in the bathroom, and a great way to provide a visible surface to display items on.

Amy says, “Floating shelves (such as these floating metal and wood shelves from Amazon complete with a handy storage rail) are an easy way to store items, especially above desks, beds, changing tables in nurseries, bathrooms and dining rooms. They make it easy to keep track of items you have because they are open and easily accessible. 

“I've used floating shelves (like these rustic-style floating shelves from Amazon) for storing office supplies in home offices where space is tight, in bedrooms for books, photographs and keepsakes, in dining rooms for plates, vases and serve ware and in bathrooms for toiletries.”

Cleaning expert, Karina Toner says, “Floating shelves are versatile and easy to install. They provide functional storage while adding visual interest to any room.”

3. Install pegboards

Pegboards (such as this modular wooden pegboard from Target) are a great option for adding a large amount of easy-to-access wall storage that’s also super versatile. 

Karina says, “Pegboards (such as this vibrant pink pegboard from Target also available in six other colors) offer customizable storage solutions for various items, from kitchen utensils to office supplies. They can be easily mounted and rearranged as needed.”

The great thing about pegboards (such as this chic gold wire framed pegboard from Amazon) is that you’re not bound by the width or height of shelves. Instead, you can move things around the peg board, using customisable hooks, baskets and shelves to perfectly fit your needs. 

4. Wall-mount cabinets

Wall storage ideas don’t just have to be practical, they can also be used to add color and style to your space. 

Karina says, “Wall-mounted cabinets are ideal for maximizing vertical space in bathrooms and kitchens. They provide concealed storage for toiletries, spices, or cookware.” 

Just remember, if you rent you’ll probably need to ask your landlord if you’re able to install this kind of wall storage before you do it. 

5. Use over-the-door organizers

Amy says, “Mount an over-the-door shoe organizer (such as this 20-pocket over-the-door organizer from Amazon) directly on a wall using hooks or nails. This is an awesome way to organize water bottles, art supplies, hair accessories, winter accessories and so much more. 

"You can either get opaque or clear, depending on the aesthetic that works best. Some clients prefer solid fabric to disguise the contents, but then it's important to use labels. Other clients prefer clear plastic (such as this clear plastic organizer from Amazon) so they can always see how much they have."

If you're feeling inspired and looking for more organization ideas, you'll be pleased to know there are plenty of expert-approved tips for everything from small entryway storage ideas, to small bedroom storage to get your space looking ship shape in no time. 

It's not easy trying to figure out how to fit a towel rack in a small bathroom, especially when you can barely squeeze in there yourself. Designers always seem to recommend vertical storage options, but what happens when there's not enough wall space to execute a plan?

Tight quarters can be frustrating, but it doesn't mean they're a lost cause. Whether you're living alone or sharing space, it's possible to square away necessities with our expert organizer and design guidance with eight tips on how to fit a towel rack in a small bathroom.

If your small bathroom ideas include a towel rack, the pros can tell you where to start measuring. Toolkits at the ready!

How to fit a towel rack in a small bathroom

Your initial ideas on how to fit a towel rack in a small bathroom might go out the window, but there are definitely ways to get your Brooklinen favorites and the rest of the bath towels in your collection situated. 

Start by decluttering your small bathroom and then work to set up a rack in one of our pro's favorite spots. 

1. On the bathroom door

Vertical space might be limited when it comes to the walls, but don't forget about the back of the door. 

"One of the best ways I've seen of maximizing space is by installing towel racks on the inside of the bathroom door," says Nick Valentino, the VP of market operations at Bellhop. "If you mount one high and one low, there's even room for two full-sized towels as long as you fold them correctly." 

Should you be wary about making holes in the door, renter-friendly option such as a Madjid-over-the-door towel rack from Wayfair that doesn't require any installation is the perfect plan B.

2. On a cabinet

Designer Artem Kropovinsky  is always in favor of leaving floor space clear, no matter the room you're working with. 

By opting for a wall-mounted bathroom cabinet, as he suggests, you're not only freeing up room to move around, but you're giving yourself some storage options, an essential rule for small bathrooms. Fasten a towel rack to the bottom of the cabinet or select a piece that already includes a towel rack (such as an Amazon wall-mounted bathroom cabinet with towel bar, available in four colors).

3. Above the toilet

If you're looking to make more space in a small bathroom but are still keen on having a towel rack, opt for a handy space near where you shower. 

"The space above the toilet can be suitable for a towel rack, and it's normally close to the shower," says professional organizer Laura Price. "I recommend installing one that allows you to roll your towels so you don’t have loose towels hanging down over the toilet."

4. Consider alternatives

Clever small bathroom towel storage ideas don't necessarily have to include a towel rack. There's no requirement for the feature. You can keep your linens folded or rolled neatly and stashed in a woven basket, on a decorative ladder, or in a freestanding cabinet. 

FAQs

Now that you're settled on where to put everything in your W.C., you'll want to keep things organized and clean. One thing you can't avoid? Humidity. Experts shell out tips for how to keep a bathroom dry. No time for mold here.

If trying to keep your space on-trend, incorporate colors of the year without paint for an easy update. While I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for every new shade to be announced, it's difficult to use these colors when you live in a rental or just aren't up for retaining. 

While the major paint brands are some of the biggest color authorities when it comes to letting us know what's up for next year, it doesn't mean you have to whip out the paintbrush. 

From earthy tones that feel super relaxing to vivid pops of color that'll update any space, we're looking to the top color experts for small space color trends to keep our rentals fresh when painting the walls just ain't an option. Instead, I've found some super cute home accessories to shop and give your spot a nod to the trends.

How to use the colors of the year without painting

Leave the roller hiding under the utility sink and keep those paintbrushes packed up. Here are all the colors of the year that have been announced, like Benjamin Moore's color trends, and how to bring them in without a lick of lacquer.

Renew Blue, Valspar

Blue has long been a color that represents serenity, and Valspar reckons it has the answer to your Sunday Scaries with this ultra-chill shade. It describes Renew Blue as a "nourishing: color with green influences, and it genuinely looks like the water you’d find on a tropical island.

I don’t know about you, but a vacation would definitely help my zen right now. So, if this color gives me a little bit of that feeling, I’m in! When it comes to styling Renew Blue, it's all about going with the flow, baby, and finding accessories that match the calm vibe, whether you want to go all-out coastal grandmother or just add a few pops. Think organic and rounded shapes, soft lines, and nothing angular.

Bauwerk by Charlottenburg

Bauwerk’s effortlessly cool limewash paints are everywhere right now — coffee shops, hotels, and your most stylish friend’s place. If you’re wondering what the color of the moment is, the brand’s founders have picked out a newly-launched shade from the collection with an on-trend hotel chain The Hoxton. 

Charlottenburg is named after an area in Berlin known — not for its edgy aesthetic like you might think — but, actually, for the neighborhood's Art Deco buildings in pastel colors. This earthy take on shell pink is basically the perfect color because it’s flatteringly warm, has a playful twist, and still maintains a grounded vibe. It'll go with everything. As well as incorporating pink home decor and accessories, you could even paint something small, like a plinth, and position a lamp or vase on it.

Cracked Pepper, Behr

To be honest, I didn’t see this one coming. The moody, charcoal gray that Behr has crowned its colors of the year packs a punch. Those who would consider putting Cracked Pepper on their walls would have to be confident in their interior prowess. B

Behr knows that black is a hard color to do well, so it has created this particular hue with a soft finish and tons of depth to make it not only apply better but feel more versatile in the space. Nevertheless, a great way to incorporate this into your apartment or rental would be through black decor and accessories, especially if you think this dark shade could be a little much for your space.

Persimmon, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams

Earthy, terracotta hues are going to be huge in 2024, so it’s really fun to see a different twist on this color family from HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams. The brand has touted this warmed-up peach as its top color recommendation for next year. 

Thanks to its warmth, this is an ideal color to use across accessories. I’m picturing modern designs that can really carry this jolt of color, like pillows, lamps, and even storage units.

Prediction: Lemon Drop, Pantone

Now, obviously, Pantone’s Color of the Year announcement is a big deal. While this news hasn’t yet escaped the color authority just yet, it has given a list of tones to watch out for in spring 2024 in accordance with New York Fashion Week, darling. 

There are several shades in the palette for early next year, but Lemon Drop is a perfect happy yellow that will make any space feel more positive. Use this bright hue as an accent in your space to give it a really fresh, fun feel.

After perusing through all of these colors, you might be excited about giving your home's palette a refresh. If you haven't figured out how to choose a color scheme for your apartment, there are plenty of pointers. And you won't need paint in these instances either!

Give your space an instant makeover with some simple DIY small entryway ideas. Adding something as simple as a mirror or some extra lighting can go a long way in a tiny space. 

Entryways can be one of the trickiest to organize or even decorate to your acquired taste, especially if they are small. Having our entryway look cute is key because creating a first impression for your guests in the comfort of your own home is a must.

Have no fear, because I spoke with design experts about how to spruce up your space with some simple small entryway ideas.

DIY small entryway ideas

We all know that everything comes in small packages when living in a studio or one-bedroom apartment. All the way from the kitchen, closets, and bathrooms, to even the entryways. See some easy DIY ideas to make the most of a small space.

1. Add a mirror to create an optical illusion

Style & Design Expert, Ted Roberts, suggests adding a mirror to your front entryway is a great way to make the space feel larger and more welcoming. Not only does it provide a place for you to check your appearance before leaving the house, but it’s also a low-profile way to spruce up the look of a small space while making the room brighter. 

“If you position a full-length mirror in your front entryway to reflect natural light or the view from outside, you and your guests will subconsciously see it as a continuation of the outdoors,” he said.

2.Install lighting

To prevent your entryway from feeling cramped or dim, consider adding well-placed sconces, overhead lighting, or a unique chandelier. Roberts states that the right lighting not only brightens the room but also makes the space more inviting and welcoming. We even found some renter-friendly lighting ideas for an easy set-up.

"If you’d like to dress up the space in the evening more, opt for elegant chrome sconces that hang in a vertical direction to elongate the room," said Interior Designer Elizabeth Vergara.

3. Enhance security

“Gain extra peace of mind by bolstering your home's security with a key lock safe or deadbolt on your front door,” said Roberts.

Not only will it help you secure your home, but it will allow you to lock and unlock your door remotely and provide you with a greater ability to monitor and control who's coming and going.

“Think about your scheduled babysitter after school or dog walker who's coming to take your pup for their daily walk,” continued Roberts.

4. Add greenery

To liven up your entryway, Roberts recommends trying to bring in a bit of nature to create a calm and outdoorsy vibe. You can add potted plants, throw in some driftwood decorations, or place a big vase filled with branches for a serene and balanced feel. 

If you are looking to infuse even more personality, you might explore the idea of customizing your plant pots by experimenting with paint and baking soda for a unique textured appearance.

Best small entryway buys

Meet the Experts

FAQS

Adding a few small touches like a mirror or a potted plant can really transform your space. Finding new new ways to decorate your small entryway can help it feel fresh and modern without breaking the bank.

The worst paint colors for small spaces can make a place look really cramped and uninviting. By knowing which shades to steer clear of, you can instead opt for colors that are much more inviting.

Sure, white walls are a pretty safe bet but they can be a little bit boring. Playing with different colors is a great way to bring your personality into your space. That being said, in smaller homes and apartments, you have to be careful that the shade you choose doesn’t take away from your place’s aesthetic.

Been browsing through small space decorating ideas, and want to know which paints you should avoid in your place? I’ve spoken to experts to find out what colors to keep away from in smaller homes.

Living in a small space? These are the paint colors you need to avoid

Looking to style your small space, and want to paint your walls to match? Experts say that these are the colors to avoid.

1. Dark colors

I know, I know. Dark colors look so chic — but sadly, they just don’t work when painting whole walls in smaller spaces. “Darker colors like deep navy, dark brown, or black can make a room feel more confined and smaller than it actually is,”  says interior designer Mohammad Ahmed. 

This is because darker colors absorb light rather than reflecting it. “Think twice before settling on a deep maroon or a dense forest green for a compact area,” adds Artem Kropovinsky, interior design expert and founder of Arsight.

2. Muddy colors

While muddier colors can make a larger space feel cozy, they don’t have the same effect in smaller spaces. “Colors that aren’t clear or pure can make a space feel dirty or muddied,” says Ahmed. “This can include certain shades of olive, taupe, or gray that don't have a clear undertone.” If you aren’t sure about the undertone, paint it next to a true color, like pure white or the primary colors. 

3. Bright and neon colors

I love retro and Y2K shades as much as the next person, but covering your whole wall in these bold colors isn’t a great small space idea. “Bright and neon colors reflect light and make the walls appear closer, making the room feel even smaller,” says Warner Quiroga, home improvement expert and founder of Prestige Home Buyers. 

Using such colors in a small space can be visually overpowering and tiresome for the eyes. “They can also steal attention from other elements in the room,” Kropovinsky says.

4. Colors that don’t match the natural light

This isn’t an exact color — this just depends on your room’s lighting. “If a room has very little natural light, a color that is too cool or ashy can make the room feel cold and uninviting,” says Ahmed. “On the other hand, if a room has lots of warm natural light, a color that is too warm might feel overwhelming.” Have a look at how many windows you have in each room, and work out if they’re south-facing or not. This will help you determine how much natural light your place is getting, and you can then adjust paint colors accordingly.

5. Pure white

Many rentals come with white walls, which are easy to decorate around and to maintain. “While one might think of pure white as a space enlarger, sometimes it can feel stark and cold in tinier rooms, without the right balance of textures and accents,” says Kropovinsky. If you are stuck with these, be sure to make them look warmer with cozy and colorful accents.

3 buys that will reduce the impact of these worst colors for small spaces

Stuck with any of these colors in your rental? These stylish buys can stop them looking so vivid and harsh. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

FAQs

Now you know what paint colors you definitely shouldn’t use, you might be wondering which paint colors you should use instead. These are the eight paint colors that will enhance small spaces, according to experts. 

Learning how to make a small space look luxe is a great way to make your place look stylish and contemporary. Just because your space isn’t big, that doesn’t mean you can’t make it beautifully bougie.

That's right  — you really don’t need to be living in a NYC penthouse in order to make your place Insta-worthy. That being said, a home can feel more inviting with items that feel a little bit extra special. Just a few clever small touches in the right places can completely elevate a room and even a whole apartment.

Looking for small space decorating ideas and think adding a luxe touch could be the way to go for you? I’ve spoken to experts to find out how you can do just that, with plenty of ideas that are renter-friendly.

How to make your small space look and feel ultra-luxe, in 7 easy steps

From subtle styling to organization tips, here are seven ways you can add luxury to your small space. 

1. Create good lighting

This may sound simple, but lighting is one of the easiest ways to quickly change how a room feels. “Whether it's from natural light from lots of windows or dimmers in the ceiling lighting to set the mood, good lighting in the room goes a long way to set the tone,” explains interior designer Chantelle Hartman Malarkey. If you can’t install a dimmer switch, you can buy lightbulbs that come with dimmer options.

2. Edit down your items

In a small space, having lots of items strewn around can make it feel chaotic — even if they’re meant to be decorative. “Adding a bunch of small items and knick-knacks makes the space feel cluttered and busy,” says Hartman Malarkey. Instead, she suggests investing in bigger, purposeful, eye-catching items, even if only a few for a small space, creates an elevated look. “Opt for pieces that exude quality over quantity,” adds Artem Kropovinsky, interior design expert and founder of Arsight.

3. Stick to a theme

It can be so easy to scroll through Insta and TikTok, and latch onto lots of different design ideas. If you use them all in your home, it can look less Insta-worthy and more mismatched. “Nothing’s worse than clashing and not matching colors, themes, and prints,” Hartman Malarkey tells me. “You want a cohesive look that makes your space feel and look put together.” Once you do this, it’s important to regularly take a step back and re-adjust items where necessary, in order to maintain a put-together look. 

4. Elevate everyday items

If you’re renting and have a generous landlord, you can look at changing up door knobs, handles, and tiles with more chic pieces. “Consider swapping generic hardware on cabinets or doors with something more bespoke,” says Kropovinsky. These will subtly make a place look and feel more expensive. Can’t tear up the place? Look for peel-and-stick tiles, or switch handles and knobs on furniture that you own. 

5. Be thoughtful when choosing textiles

Instead of going for rough textures, choose ones that will actually help you relax in the space. “Use soft and tactile materials to create a comfy, warm interior space,” says Courtney Wollersheim, interior designer at FLOOR360. “Velvety throw pillows, sumptuous rugs, or silken curtains can add a layer of luxe without the need for structural changes,” adds Krpovinsky.

Wollersheim also suggests choosing fabric colors that match your existing interior. “For example, if you have light oak hardwood or vinyl plank flooring, choose a carpet with natural fiber like wool or sisal, with a soft two-tone pattern that’s in the family of light natural colors.”

6. Create a focal point

By creating a stylish area for guests to look at, you can distract them from the fact that the space is smaller. “Make sure there is something in the room that stands out and is the focal point,” says Hartman Malarkey. This can be a large mirror, a unique piece of furniture, or art piece — whatever makes you happy will catch everyone's eye and make a statement.

7. Pay attention to the small details

As well as having a strong focal point, it’s also important to make sure the smaller pieces are also impactful. “Add items like curtains, large throw pillows, and ceiling lighting,” explains Hartman Malarkey. “When they are skipped, the room looks bare and not styled, but when these are checked off the list the room looks complete.” This will help create a luxe yet livable space.

3 buys that will make your small space look luxe 

Want to put our experts’ advice into practice? Here are three buys to help you do that. 

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

FAQs

Want to really focus on making your place look fully luxurious? Go through and decorate each room, one by one. These luxe living room picks are super fashionable, and won’t cost you a lot of dollars. 

The besties are back! I don't know about you but one of my favorite parts of the new season of Only Murders in the Building is Mabel's (played by Selena Gomez) new apartment makeover. While the trio is talking about all things murder, podcasts, and musical theater, I've been obsessing over where to get that gorgeous bouclé couch.

If you're new to the series, Only Murders in the Building is a murder mystery show, set in a fictional and super-chic New York apartment building, The Arconia. Starring Martin Short, Steve Martin, and Selena Gomez, the gang investigates these murders all while producing their very own true-crime podcast. 

We open season three to find Mabel is finally selling her renovated apartment, which is now filled with luxurious rugs, statement furniture, and marble floors. A far cry from the exposed beams and plastic crates from season one. I sat down with the production designer for the show, Patrick Howe, to get the behind-the-scenes makeover tips and tricks. 

Mabel's apartment inspiration

Mabel's apartment this season is super polished with a light and airy design. The white, cream, and gray color palette is every vanilla girl's dream. I asked production designer, Patrick Howe, about how the makeover came to be.

What was the design process like?

"I learned early on from our showrunner, John Hoffman, that the look was to be very nice and elegant," said Howe. 

"However, it should have a quality that does not match the Mabel character. It would be jarring to the audience like, 'oh, that's pretty, but I'm surprised those would be choices Mabel would make for herself.' But then by the end of episode one, when you learn that the apartment was for sale, you would understand, that's why it looks that way."

What was the inspiration for the final look?

"I've staged a lot of apartments in real life and just from research and knowing current trends in New York City in high-end real estate, the kind of styles they tend to have. I knew that everything could be just white on white on white or neutral tones," explains Howe. 

"I wanted it to seem like it was definitely choices Mabel was making as the designer of her space but with one hand tied behind her back, not being allowed to sort of flourish like she would want to in color for herself."

How to recreate Mabel's apartment

Personally, I love the all-neutral color palette and want to give my space a little upgrade. I asked Howe for his best tips for getting Mabel's new look at home. 

Where is Mabel's couch from?

"All I can say is it was inspired by preexisting sofa lines but we did do a custom build of our own. Mostly because, like what practically every TV show confronts, you can rarely either afford the real item or it just simply isn't available," says Howe. 

(Don't worry readers, I've found some great alternatives below!)

How can you recreate the look on a budget?

"When you're working in that neutral palette, you can have different patterns in a very similar colorway and get more variety that way. It doesn't clash with each other because they're all kind of off-whites or very pale grays."

Mabel-inspired buys to get the look

You can definitely achieve Mabel's new bougie look on a budget with these design tips and my favorite online buys. For even more ideas, we've found some affordable luxe picks that just scream quiet luxury.

You can stream season three of Only Murders in the Building now Hulu and/or Disney+.  

Stuck on choosing the best adhesive hooks? I've got you. I’m going to start by going on the record and saying I’m a proud rental girly. If you manage to find yourself in a place with a great landlord the “money down the drain” argument pales in comparison to the convenience, if you ask me.

However, there is a catch! The “no nail holes in the walls” clause is here to ruin all of our days. Goodbye, visions of hanging cool vinyl covers, succulents, and fairy lights. Well, that is until you discover the power of an adhesive hook. Whether you’re looking to give your kitchen utensils a quirky update, maximize space in your bathroom, or hang up your favorite pieces to save a floordrobe from the building, you can do exactly as you please without creating any holes in your wall (or your relationship with your landlord!) 

Bearing the different usages of adhesive hooks in mind, we’ve put together a little round-up of the best organizational products, suitable for varying weights and tastes and ultimately prioritizing damage-free removal, ensuring you won’t be met with peeling paint when it’s time to bid adieu to your rental. 

12 adhesive hooks to up the storage and cute factor in your pad

We asked Chantelle Hartman Malarkey, interior designer and expert on all things home revamp, for her insight on removing adhesive hooks without damage and she referenced the hair dryer hack where you heat up the adhesive to loosen it and then use a putty knife (like this Warner one from Amazon)to scrape it off! 

"I recommend for removing small adhesive hooks from a wall to try using a hook removal tool," she says. "The hooked blade can break the bond between the adhesive hook and the wall when used correctly. To use the tool correctly slide the tool against the wall and rotate it all the way around in a circle. The hooked blade will cut the adhesive and make it easier to remove."

Reliable but temporary —  these hooks will keep you and your landlord happy, allowing your four rented walls to transform into a whimsical wonderland without the dreaded damage and docked deposit drama. So, for those of us on the hunt for adhesive hooks that double up on character and hold, let’s get stuck in, shall we?!

Wooden adhesive hooks

Plastic adhesive hooks

Metal adhesive hooks

Ceramic adhesive hooks

Frequently asked questions

Where to shop for adhesive hooks

Still searching for adhesive hooks? Here's where to continue browsing...

• Amazon adhesive hooks
• Etsy adhesive hooks
• Walmart adhesive hooks
• Target adhesive hooks
• The Home Depot adhesive hooks

How we chose

Sometimes, it's not always possible to call in 12+ adhesive hooks at the same time, and dot them around an apartment to test them out. So on this occasion, we chose hooks that were highly rated and had positive feedback from genuine customers.

Now that you've got an idea of what sticky-backed hooks to shop for, why not read our guide on hanging things in an apartment? From pictures to curtain rods, our how-to will help you to install decorations with minimal-to-no damage.  

POV: You’re a renter who really wants to make their apartment feel like their own but are terrified to piss off your landlord. 

I’ll let you in on a li’l secret — I’m a serial rental so I’m all too aware of the dos and don'ts of renting. You can’t paint the walls (unless you have a super chill landlord like I had a few years back). You shouldn’t change the flooring (or anything else for that matter). And you most definitely shouldn’t drill holes in the wall, obvi. 

So, does that mean you can’t decorate your apartment? Should you really live in a sterile white box with no color or personality? Definitely not. You’ve just gotta be smart about how you hang things, that’s all. 

Wondering how you can hang things in your rental apartment without upsetting your landlord? We’ve rounded up a selection of ultra-easy ways you can hang things without causing any noticeable damage. 

How to hang things in a rental apartment

Use adhesive hangers

An ultra-easy way to hang things without causing damage is to use adhesive hangers. They're cheap and easy to use. Plus, there are plenty of options to choose from, from peel-and-stick strips, like these Command strips from Amazon, to Velcro hook and loop self-adhesive strips, like these heavy-duty sticky back ones from Amazon. 

Utilize a tension rod

Another great option for hanging things without drilling is to use a tension rod, like this set of four mini tension rods from Amazon. If you have a space that has two walls that aren't too far apart, using a tension rod to create a hanging space can work extremely well. A tension rod is great as it's super versatile and can be used to hang pretty much anything, from wall art to posters. Plus, tension rods are completely damage-free. 

Use adhesive tape

Easy peel adhesive tape is another option for decorating your walls without damage. You can use an adhesive table to adhere unframe prints to the walls. It's quick, easy, and when done right can look great. There are lots of options to choose from but we love this pretty gold design from Amazon. 

Curtains can create a warm as well as inviting space and are a quick and inexpensive way to make your rental feel like home. Whether they're blackout shades or sheer, flowy curtains, these additions are an essential part of any home, especially in small rental apartments for a variety of reasons.

Now, if you're renting an apartment, it's important to choose curtains that are durable and easy to care for. You should also make sure they fit well in your windows and that they match your apartment’s style. With a little coordination, curtains can be a fantastic way to improve the look and feel of your small rental apartment.

With this in mind, professional organizer and Reset Your Nest’s regional manager for the DC/Virginia region Eve Mitchell provided us with a tutorial, tips, and alternative ways you can hang curtains in a small apartment.

Good to know

• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate. Hanging panels, shades, or curtains isn't too difficult, but it depends on the method you choose.
• Helpful hints: Always measure twice before buying curtains so you don't end up with something too big or too small for your space!

Here's what you'll need

• Tape measure — everyone needs a good one and this Stanley pick is Amazon's Choice
• Pencil
• Rubbing alcohol
• Microfiber cloths — our favorite is this 24-pack from Amazon; they're so handy
• Command Forever Classic Large Metal Wall Hooks — you can buy these on Amazon
• Extendable curtain rod — this highly-rated option on Amazon comes in plenty of colors 
• Step stool or ladder (optional depending on window size)

How to hang curtains in a rental

Step 1: Choose adhesive wall hooks and an extendable rod

We recommend buying a set of Command Forever Classic Large Metal Wall Hooks (which are available on Amazon). They can hold up to five pounds, which is perfect for most window treatments. You'll also want to pick out an extendable curtain rod that can be sized up or down for different window lengths, too. This highly-rated pick from Amazon is a good choice and comes in several colors.

Step 2: Measure your windows and walls

First, you will need to decide if you want your curtains to fall just an inch or two above the floor or if you want them to pool at the bottom. The standard size for curtains is 84 inches but can go up from there if you like the longer look.

Step 3: Measure the length of the space above your window

For mounting curtains above a window frame, you will want to measure 4–6 inches from the window trim for placement of where the rod should extend. This can help make your small space appear larger. Use a measuring tape (like Stanley's FatMax from Amazon) and grab a pencil to mark out your measurements.

Step 4: Clean the wall

Now that you have your markings, it's time to install the adhesive hooks. Make sure to clean the surface with rubbing alcohol and a clean rag or microfiber cloth first. Don’t rub too hard or you could remove paint. All you want is the space to be free of dust. Once you’re done wiping it down, allow it to dry.

Step 5: Press and apply the hooks

Separate the strips and press the adhesive to the hook. Make sure to hold for 10 seconds. Then separate the strip from the hook and place it onto the wall and hold it securely for 30 seconds. Allow adhesive to cure for at least one hour or overnight.

Step 6: Add your curtains

Add your curtains to the rod, then carefully using a step stool or ladder, lay your curtain rod cross the window, placing them on your hooks. Ask a friend or roommate to help out if you have super tall windows.

FAQs

Getting a li'l hot and bothered? Summer is right around the corner and although it happens to be one of the most anticipated seasons of the year, it could also be a drag for some. Some of us even prefer staying inside so we don’t have to deal with the scorching heat. 

Staying inside, however, isn’t as helpful as we think it is because it could still feel really hot inside our homes even if we have an AC or fan on full blast. Not to mention, that cooling systems could have glitches from time to time.

You could try some steps to help cool down a room, but you may need some extra help. With this in mind, I’ve curated my favorite products I utilize inside my home when temperatures are 90 degrees and above.

9 best cooling products 

One of the benefits of being a homeowner is that you've got free reign to do (almost) anything to your property. But if your DIY skills (or lack of) are doing you a disservice, — just know you're not alone.

In fact, research shows that 52% of Brits steer clear of home improvement altogether because they lack the skills and confidence. That's over half of you reading this right now.

And, it appears mum's quite literally the word when it comes to passing down practice to the kids. A staggering 3.1 million of us are still calling our parents for reassurance on undertaking basic restorations and repairs — including fixing a leaky tap.

Luckily, nationwide waste removal experts HIPPO have taken on the mammoth task of teaching the country a thing or two about taking projects into their own hands. And it has asked none other than TV presenter and DIY enthusiast Dom Wood to help. 

Dom Wood's 9 top tips on DIY

Whether or not you know Wood from his days on BBC's Dick & Dom In Da Bungalow, the Devon-born entertainer is on the campaign to make us Brits BFFs with our toolbox. Studies show that nearly 40% of us a) don't have a hammer, or the right tools at all, and b) can't be bothered to clean up afterwards. Here are nine tips from the celeb that'll help up your DIY game and make the cleaning process easier.

1. A lick of paint can go a long way

"To help reduce waste and ensure your painting area is kept nice and tidy, stretch an elastic band over the length of your paint tin and shift it across into the middle to help you get any excess paint off your brush and avoid unwanted spillages," says Wood.

 "Make sure you cover your paint tray and brushes with cling film between painting sessions to help save additional time, energy, and paint."

2. Make sure you’ve got the right tools for the job

"It may sound obvious, but before you start any DIY job, you need to make sure you have the right tools to hand," advises Wood.

To create a DIY starter kit, his top tool recommendations are a hammer, screwdriver, tape measure, drill, and pliers.

3. Keep things tidy to help save time

To keep on track of the bigger indoor or outdoor mess that comes from your DIY projects, consider a HIPPOBAG. You can fill it up and book a collection with HIPPO to take it away.

As a carbon-neutral business, HIPPO’s strong environmental policies ensure that over 95% of all waste collected is diverted from landfill with the remaining disposed of in a responsible way. The company’s commitment to achieving a sustainable future means they take action to reduce their carbon emissions wherever possible and have seen a 34% reduction since 2016.

4. Always start small

The trick with DIY is often to start off small and slowly build up your confidence. One of Wood's favourite tips is to hang a frame up on the wall with limited hassle. Take a look at this picture-perfect three-step guide.

1. Squeeze a little bit of toothpaste on the outside of the nail hook hanger on the back of the picture frame
2. Place the picture on the wall where you’d like to hang it
3. Once the picture is precisely positioned, press down a little, allowing the toothpaste to naturally leave its mark on the wall, this will leave a clear mark where you need to put the nail.

5. Skill-share with friends and family

If you’ve recently learned a new DIY skill or discovered a quick and easy tip or trick, make sure you share it with others. Sharing tips is so important as we often assume other people are better at DIY than us.

6. Pay attention to detail

"DIY shelves are great for extra storage or displays in any room," says Wood.

"While it might seem overwhelming choosing a position or ensuring they’re straight, a little extra effort can go a long way in making the job much more efficient. When putting up shelves at home, I use masking tape to visualise where the shelf will go and to help mark out where the nails will be drilled."

1. Firstly, use the masking tape on the back of your shelf to mark your screw holes, then peel your tape off.
2. Transfer the tape to the wall, and use a spirit level to make sure everything is straight before drilling where you have marked on the tape.
3. Peel away the tape and add in the screws.

7. Shine a light

"If you’re painting a wooden surface, it’s a good idea to paint over knots with knotting solution otherwise the sap will bleed through any paint you apply," says Wood. "A wood primer followed by an oil-based undercoat should also be used and finished with an oil-based gloss or topcoat."

Inspecting your work can be done with the torch on your phone or a traditional flashlight.

"Position the light so it shines across the painted wood surface and detects any patchy surfaces, loose paint, or blemishes which need a little extra work," he adds. "Take a pencil and lightly circle the spots that you need to come back to."

Find out more about the DIY with Dom Wood campaign.

How HIPPOBAGs make DIY a dream

Stocked in over 2,000 stores across the UK, HIPPOBAGs allow you to get on with DIY without worrying about the waste left behind. Once you've received your flat-packed yellow sack, simply fill it with rubbish, and give HIPPO's friendly contact centre a call to arrange pick-up. Its team will take it off your hands (no permit admin needed), responsibly recycling your refuse at one of 250 accredited waste transfer stations nationwide that have been personally audited by HIPPO employees.

As the number-one skip bag company in the UK, you won't have to worry about taking time off of work to be in as HIPPO's helpful drivers will remove the heavy waste from the front of your home.

Bought a bag? Book your collection here

Other places to buy HIPPOBAGs

• HIPPOBAGs at B&Q
• HIPPOBAGs at Homebase
• HIPPOBAGs at Travis Perkins
• HIPPOBAGs at Wickes

Contact HIPPO

• Call HIPPO on 0333 999 0 999
• Instagram (@hippowaste)
• Facebook (@hippowaste)
• Twitter (@HIPPOWASTE)
• Read the HIPPO blog
• View HIPPO reviews on TrustPilot

One of Keyanna Bowen's favorite expressions is "You have not because you ask not."

That's often the case with rental renovations. We assume a glow-up is not in the cards because we're not stationed in our "forever home." However, in order to be a good tenant, you should be proactive and approach your landlord with a few aesthetic suggestions here and there.

If you've been dying for a kitchen makeover, are in need of a few bathroom updates, or simply want to make apartment living feel a little more permanent, Bowen — a designer and the founder of East + Lane—will help walk you through the process. 

"I’m a true believer that you’re home environment is the most important environment that will affect your well-being and quality of life," she says. "If there’s any place to make an investment in, it is your home."

Renters, it's time to make your space feel more like you. 

How to pull off rental renovations with your landlord

Though the process could seem intimidating, a little research and planning go a long way. Here's how to get started on that kitchen cabinet re-do or the wood accent wall you've been dreaming about. (Psst: make sure to add these five must-have DIY gadgets to your toolbox.) 

1. Start Planning

As much as we appreciate a good Pinterest board, you're going to have to take your planning up a notch. Find imagery, make budget predictions, and factor in labor costs before you approach your landlord with your renovation suggestions. (It goes without saying but you'll need his or her permission to move forward.) 

Though there's certainly a fear factor with approaching the property owner, Bowen notes that a little TLC is in everyone's best interest, so don't sweat the conversation.

"I think a lot of landlords are now seeing that trend that more and more of their tenants are coming to them and wanting to make updates, and it’s such a win-win situation," she says. "You’re adding value to the property."

2. Put everything in writing

After you speak to the landlord about your ideas — and present the proper materials — Bowen says to put everything in writing. When working on her rental property, she added terms to her lease agreement so that she was protected in a variety of areas, including:

• Receiving her security deposit in full 
• Getting first rights refusal on the property, should it go up for sale
• Not being fiscally responsible for anything the landlord wishes to change 
• Not being subjected to a rent increase.

Whether you're paying for half the project, the whole project, or if you're deducting an amount off your rent each month, do make sure financial specifics are detailed in writing as well so that all parties know what to expect moving forward.

3. Start small

"Everyone will have different skill levels and comfort levels with the projects they want to tackle, so that’s the first thing to think about," Bowen says. 

Before you divvy up your time and finances, start with smaller projects that don't require as much sweat equity. What are the cheapest changes with the biggest impact?"

"Nine times out of ten, that’s painting, taking out a light fixture, or swapping out the hardware," Bowen says. "There are so many little fixes like that can change the way a space looks and feels without you having to spend a lot of money or rip out anything."

Even better? You can take a lot of those goods to your next place!

4. Don't disregard the furniture

Though we might feel inclined to furnish rentals with hand-me-downs or inexpensive items — and of course, there's nothing wrong with that — don't be afraid to go for the piece that you're truly dying for, ones that will carry you from home to home.

"Get out of the concept of once I invest in my dream home that’s when I’ll get the sofa that I want,'" Bowen suggests. "Invest in those pieces that are quality items and stand the test of time."

While we're on the topic, you've seen the Wayfair couches we're swooning over, right?

Ready to get going with those redos? We wish you the best of luck!

Congratulations on your humble abode! Before you go all Picasso, you might want to check out our professional-backed painting tips for renters. 

We get it, decorating white walls might dull your shine, quite literally, but if you've signed a lease to a property that you don't own, you might have to make some sacrifices in the painting department. 

That doesn't necessarily mean bold statements or dopamine decorating are out of the equation — you'll just have to plan properly. Fortunately, we have great advice to help see you through. 

The best painting tips for renters, according to the pros

Before you bust out the rollers and dabble with an emerald green or terracotta shade, plan accordingly. Keep this step-by-step guide bookmarked, folks. 

1. Talk to your landlord

If you're keen on adding a little color, you're going to have to speak to the head honcho and understand the terms of your lease. Should you have a few maintenance suggestions, always have a discussion before forging ahead with any project.   

"My biggest tip for renters would be to compromise with your landlords," says Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Williams' director of color marketing. "Make sure to communicate that it’s in both of your best interests to make some changes. However, be aware that landlords might not go for a huge change."

And even if you can't actually paint, we'll help you choose the perfect color scheme for your apartment, so fear not!

2. Sample different shades

Before you start using the bedroom wall as your personal easel, snag a few paint colors and test them out on a small area. Some paint brands even have peel-and-stick samples to make the process easier. Never underestimate the beauty of peel and stick!

3. Choose colors wisely

Let's say you've been given the green light to paint...but green is off-limits on the walls. Stick to neutrals, pastels, and versatile hues to give your room a fresh look. Also note that if you paint after move-in, you might be required to put in some sweaty equity upon leaving your rental. 

"Since renters may be responsible for repainting their apartment to match the original colors, it is advisable to paint with lighter, brighter colors," says Task Rabbit tasker, Jay W. "However, if you want a darker accent wall, go for it. Just keep in mind that it may take more than two coats to get the wall back to its original state."

4. Select the right spot

Location, location, location! Rather than designate the bedroom or the kitchen as the place for color, you can narrow it down to a single wall. 

"One rental-friendly way to add color to a room is by painting one feature wall," says Erika Woelfel, Behr’s vice president of color & creative services. "That way, you get the benefit of personalizing your space without a total room re-paint upon move out."

And being strategic might even trick your eye into thinking you're working with more space than you are.

"Carefully thought-out pops of colors can make the space appear larger," says Hannah Yeo, the color marketing & development manager at Benjamin Moore. "For instance, if you have a long and narrow hallway, pop the end of the hallway wall with a bold, bright accent color. You can dress the wall with your favorite artwork to serve as a focal point while having lighter colors on side walls to make the hallway look wider."

For a light, airy feel in a smaller room, she suggests working with pale colors and pastels. 

5. Think about alternatives

Who said you have to go for the walls? Painting furniture is always a solid option, and it can totally transform your space.

"Upcycle a piece of furniture or décor item with a fresh coat of paint or change out hardware pulls on a chest of drawers and spray paint them a new color," Woelfel suggests.

6. Accessorize properly

Break down what you need. Though it might seem like a simple shopping list, products can add up quickly. 

"First comes preparation tools, and once the surface preparation is completed, you’ll want to survey the project to see what needs to be covered," says Mike Mundwiller, senior manager, end user product experience at Benjamin Moore. "Next, you will need tools to apply the paint."

He recommends snagging a durable paint tray and a high-quality angle-sash paintbrush. "Synthetic bristles, like nylon or polyester, are the most practical," he adds. 

Andrea Philips of Airtasker's lifestyle editorial team insists that the often-overlooked items are the ones you'll find yourself needing. Find a can opener, masking tape, a roller extension pole, and a canvas sheet. 

"It is more durable than other materials like plastic and will absorb any paint drips and spills. This is especially important when renting as you don’t want to risk losing your deposit by getting paint on the carpet," she says.

Living in a studio apartment poses many challenges, mainly the tough task of figuring out how to best use the space. Every inch counts when you’re working with limited square footage and a tight budget. However, with smart strategies and ample planning, decorating your studio apartment can feel both luxurious and inviting.

While the first tip for organizing a studio apartment will always be to declutter your belongings, there are several ways you can create a stylish and functional setup. We tapped Emma Hopkinson, blogger behind All Up in My Space, to source her best tips. Your dream space awaits. 

 Live in the space before making a floor plan

 Creating a floor plan might feel silly when you’re talking about less than 600 square feet but you should treat your rental just like any other space you’d live in. For example, you wouldn’t go furniture shopping for a new home without mapping out a floor plan, right? Treat your rental the same way — it will show in the final design.

However, before you sketch a design, try to live in your new studio apartment for a few days before nailing down the floor plan. This strategy can help you understand how to best make use of the space. “My top tip for every space is to live in it a while before making any permanent decisions,” Hopkinson says. “Understand how you move about it, where the light is at certain times of day, and so on.” 

The idea of moving in with a detailed plan might be appealing, but you should be prepared to flex it based on your needs. One small yet impactful tip that Hopkinson recommends is to avoid putting all your furniture against the walls. “Bringing things out into the middle of the space creates little pockets of interest and helps to make a home feel full,” she notes.

 Pick furniture wisely 

When it comes to furnishing a studio apartment, things can get tricky. There’s only so much room for furniture and it’s all left out in the open, meaning it has to look chic while being functional. Hopkinson says this is where closed storage comes in handy. 

On the other hand, open storage is a big no. “In an open-plan space things can start to feel cluttered when everything’s on display,” Hopkinson says. “Being able to see stacks of work papers from your bed is a sure-fire route to an always-on mindset.”  Keep clutter concealed with closed storage, like armoires, dressers, and storage benches rather than bookshelves or open shelving.

 Go hard with storage

One common roadblock in designing a streamlined studio is figuring out where to store all of your stuff. Multi-use furniture is essential for ensuring that you make the most out of your space. Consider purchasing a storage ottoman, a bed with drawers, or a coffee table with a lift-up top. Opting for furniture with built in storage will ultimately free up some of your floorspace and will make a big difference in your studio’s vibe. 

You can find great multi-use furniture items at a variety of stores now, but online marketplaces or flea markets are also great spots to check out.

 Think in zones 

One of Hopkinson’s biggest takeaways from apartment living was to think of the space in zones. Zoning comes into play when you first put together a floor plan, and it essentially allows you to create little spaces within a space. “Your zones should all feel cohesive, and be in the same overall tones, but with subtle differences through texture or pattern,” Hopkinson says. “This can help your brain understand that it’s time to switch off or on.”

The best way to achieve zoning is through decorative elements, like adding rugs in different shapes, tones, and textures. Screens are also a clever way to visually and physically separate a space (this is especially good for offices and bedrooms.) If you can paint or use renter-friendly wallpaper, applying some color to the wall can be another way to create a mini “room.” Or it might even be as simple as leaning into one tone with your accessories and art — just be sure to hang any items with non wall-damaging adhesive strips. Once you start to think of each zone as its own micro-room, you’ll feel like your space is less cramped and more inviting. 

 Add visual interest with patterns and textures 

How you decide to decorate your studio is a highly personal choice, but sticking to a few key colors will make it look more rich and less hectic. “Personally, my brain cannot chill out in a riot of texture and color, so I like to keep everything very tonal and introduce points of difference with texture,” Hopkinson says. 

If you love bright colors, incorporating a different shade for each zone can add a nice touch. Keep in mind that this can be done in small ways — think through the use of throw pillows, picture frames, or decorative trinkets. 

 Keep your space clear of clutter 

One of the most powerful ways to make your studio feel more high-end is by making sure it’s free of clutter. An unorganized space is never ideal, but in a studio with limited square footage, it can feel especially distracting and chaotic when things get messy. 

“You need to be able to move about the space with ease, because if you have to move ten stacked boxes to put something away, let’s be honest, that thing is probably going to live on the floor,” Hopkinson says. “So take your time and be honest about how you use your space.” For example, you might love the idea of open shelving in your kitchen area, but it’s going to take a lot of dusting and cleaning to upkeep. If that’s your thing, go forth, but if not, choose something that will work for your everyday life. This will help you keep your studio clear of clutter on a regular basis.

Every modern home needs furniture protectors. Safeguarding your chairs, sofas, and more, furniture protectors ward off unwanted marks, stains, and scratches, plus the wear and tear typical to a busy household. Perhaps you're dealing with unruly kids. Maybe you've got pets – we know cats love to claw at the couch. Or you might just be partial to hosting parties, where your beloved furnishings can really take a bashing. Whatever it is, a quality furniture protector will safeguard your household favorites. Here's a selection of the best currently available. 

Available in multiple sizes to suit a variety of couch shapes, the machine-washable Sofa Shield reversible sofa protector is a wonderful furniture saver for sofas. This furniture protector is not recommended for leather, but it is compatible with most other fabrics. It features a high thread count, making it soft and comfortable. To install, simply stretch the slip-resistant strap around the width of the seat and tuck the sides into the grooves. This cover's reversible design means if you do experience a few minor marks, you can flip it over until you've got the time to wash it. This comes in a large range of colors. 

Similar to our staff pick, this Easy-Going reversible sofa slipcover is available in a variety of colors and features a reversible design, with each side featuring a different color. Made from water-resistant microfiber, this quilted furniture cover feels soft and cozy. With built-in elastic straps, you can easily secure this slipcover to your couch. Slide the included foam rods into the cracks of your couch to tuck the furniture protector in. This comes in a range of sizes to suit the furniture you want to protect. Double-check the dimensions before you buy, but this is available for sofas, four-seater sofas, recliners, futons, and even loveseats. This practical solution is machine washable.

If you're looking for a furniture protector for your favorite recliner, the H.Versailtex waterproof quilted recliner chair cover is a great choice. This machine-washable protector is 100 percent waterproof, so you can enjoy a nice cold beverage while relaxing without worrying too much about spills. Made from multi-layered microfiber, this quilted furniture cover is comfortable against your skin. This features a paw-shaped non-slip silicone grip on the reverse of the cover to help keep it in place. This is available in a range of muted colors. This comes in two sizes; a standard size to fit a chair with a sitting width of up to 22 inches and an oversized option that can suit chairs with a 30-inch width. 

The Furniture Defender pet scratch deterrent is great for use on all your upholstered furniture. You simply place these double-polished 0.03-inch thick protectors against the corners or arms of your couches and chairs. These high-quality vinyl furniture protectors guard against scratches and tears made by your furry little pals. The protectors are almost invisible, so they won't ruin the aesthetics of your room or devalue your sense of style.

If you're looking for a furniture protector for your bed, the Easy-Going waterproof washable bed cover is a brilliant choice. Made from practical polyester, this furniture protector is durable, flexible, and comfortable and has an attractive quilted finish. Place this cover on your bed to protect from messy pets, children who are potty training, or from dust and debris while you are away. This comes in five sizes to suit all beds from single size to king. The color choices are extensive; depending on the size you opt for, there are up to 18 tones to choose from so you can pick a color to match your bedroom's decor. 

Looking to wow guests? The Great Bay Home patchwork furniture protector should do the trick. Warding off spills, stains, grime, and daily wear and tear, this is an ideal pick for homes with mischievous pets and kids. Designed with a stunning patchwork print, it has a quilted texture and should fit most sofas. Plus, you'll be delighted to hear that it's machine washable, making it an easy-care choice. This combines convenience and style. We're fans of this blue and white patchwork design, but you can also opt for a burgundy and taupe version, a grey and aqua design, and a quirky olive choice that has some vintage vibes. 

It's a cover up 

The best furniture protectors are a savvy investment for all households. Our overall staff pick, the Sofa Shield reversible sofa protector, offers everyday protection, comes in many sizes, and is ever-so plush and soft against your skin. 

A similar product, but with more decorative looks, is the lovely Great Bay Home patchwork furniture protector. This works on the same basic principle as our staff pick, but it is available in many charming patchwork designs. 

Anyone who wants a solution to shield their sleeping space from daily damage should consider the Easy-Going waterproof washable bed cover. This quilted cover will protect your bed from all kinds of harm and even the odd glass of water. 

Why trust us?

 At Real Homes, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible. 

In need of a statement? Checkerboard walls ask us to think outside the box...even though we're painting inside them. TikTok's go-to DIY calls for sweet pastels and perfectly complements the trendy rugs and beloved indoor plants we've been dying to show off. When all is said and done, a monochromatic dream awaits!

"Because the iconic checkerboard pattern is such a nod to '80s style, it made sense that DIY tastemakers started to take the pattern to the walls," says Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Williams' director of color marketing. "The look is so graphic and modern!"

And since checkered home decor is also on the rise, might as well fully embrace the look, right?

How to create checkerboard walls

1. Plan it out

Creator Mitty Moon insists that prep work will make the straightforward process more seamless.

"Take photos of the potential project walls and sketch designs on top of the photos," she suggests. "Doing this will give you an idea of how the finished outcome will look."

Once you feel as though you're ready to go Van Gogh, Wadden recommends painting the base coat onto the wall using the lighter of the two colors you've chosen. Let it sit for at least four hours.

2. Measure and begin prep work

Measure the wall for length and height, and then divide the length and height by the squares' size. Once your math has been calculated, it's time to lay out a grid on the wall, and you'll need accessories.

"I used a laser level, which made taping the wall much easier," says DIYer and visual merchandiser Steffy Degreff. "I also used a lot of painter's tape and a regular level to continuously make sure the lines were straight."

3. Put down a grid

Wadden recommends starting with the horizontal strips; the top edge of the tape should be placed at your first measurement. As you make your way down the wall, use your carpenter's level to ensure everything is spaced accordingly. 

Pro-tip: "Press the tape edges down firmly to prevent the second color from bleeding into the adjacent square," Wadden says. 

When it comes time to add the vertical strips, you'll start on the lefthand side of the wall and make a vertical cut in the tape once you've reached the square size you're looking for. 

"Measure across only the width of the tape and make another cut," Wadden instructs. "Remove the cut section of tape you created. This cut section will be the width of the tape only. This is where you will lay your vertical strips of painter's tape to make your squares."

When you're creating the block pattern, you'll be applying vertical strips of tape crossing through those freshly-made cut spaces. 

4. Start painting

Ah, the fun part! Once your grid is neatly and evenly created, it's time to channel your inner artist. Use a mini roller to apply your topcoat (second color) onto every other box down and across your wall. (Anyone else thinking pink?)

Rental-friendly checkerboard wall ideas

Let's say your heart is set on the squares, but you have a landlord who's unwilling to accommodate your painting project. Marissa Zingg of One CrafDIY Girl suggests going a simpler route.

"I actually used peel and stick wallpaper to create my wall and not paint, making it renter-friendly and easy for any DIYer," she says.

6. Accessorize accordingly

As any stylist knows, the work isn't over once the paint dries. When your checkerboard wall is complete, don't forget to add fun accents around the space. Perhaps a checkered rug for good measure?

"Choose a room where you will be adding other elements such as scatter cushions, throw blankets, and larger pieces of furniture, these will help tie the checkered wall into your decor rather than it becoming an overbearing statement," says Leanne O’Malley of Studio.

Without further ado, it's go time, folks! Let's make those living room walls look like your favorite pair of Vans.

After a long wait, the eagerly-anticipated fourth season of Netflix's You has finally arrived, and I'll be honest: between all the murder and mayhem I've come to love from Joe Goldberg (don't worry, no spoilers here), I was pretty distracted by the killer look of his luxurious, library-inspired apartment decor. 

Each season of You takes place in a different location, and we see Joe's home evolve as he moves from New York to Los Angeles to the suburbs of California, and now finds himself in London. Although his apartment's South Kensington setting isn't *exactly* realistic for a man on the run who is also on a budget, the decor does feel very fitting for bookworm Joe. 

If you're feeling inspired and want to bring the dark academia-meets-British museum vibes to your space while you wait for the second half of the season to drop, scroll on.

Dark academia decor

Sure, renting allows free-spirited flexibility, but unfortunately, it can also feel super restrictive when it comes to decorating. Sigh. Working with what you have isn't always easy, is it? Especially when rental walls, carpets, and other features are ugly AF. 

The awkward fact is that we're stuck with whatever appliances and fixtures the agency or landlord picked out, and let's face it — they're usually cheap, dated, and rather unsightly (I can vouch for that in my current apartment). You may be able to make some simple rental renovations, but tiny details matter too.

So let's think creatively, peeps! As a stylist, I'm an absolute believer that any interior situation can be transformed with a few styling hacks and savvy home decor shopping picks. You see, it's all about the art of distraction and disguise.

Having recently transformed my pocket-sized rental into a sanctuary filled with gorgeous apartment design ideas, I'm here to offer affordable and security deposit-friendly buys to fix up the worst offenders. 

1. Use peel and stick wallpaper on doors

I love this game-changing idea, and it's such a fun weekend project, too. Peel and stick designs offer a super easy way to update offensive doors, whilst adding color, pattern, and personality all in one hit! And it's a fresh take on the basic AF wallpaper feature wall. 

2. Swap-in decorative knobs on cupboards and cabinets

It's all in the decorative details! Glow up weary cabinets in a flutter with a gorgeous glimmer from too-cute designs. A simple screwdriver should be enough (in most cases) to remove the current, très boring designs. (Remember to pop hardware somewhere safe as you'll need to reinstall them pre-vacating the property).

3. Layer ick flooring or carpets with feature rugs

As much as we want to rip it out, we just can't — well not if we want that deposit back! So, let's get over it already and action a remedy! Think like Aladdin and Jasmine, and get on to "magic carpets" with these trendy rugs.  I adore uber tactile, boho patterns with tassels or fringing for the ultimate cover-up job. You don't need to hide every inch of flooring — a rug per space will be enough to re-focus attention away from what lurks beneath. A long runner in a narrow entranceway (like mine) sets up a stylish first impression. 

4. Make a statement with feature pendant shades

Lone ranger lightbulb glaring harshly at you from above? Glow up your aesthetic quite literally with a trending, textured pendant shade that does all the talking without hogging precious floor space. Create more ambiance with these cozy vibes.

5. Choose chic kitchen accessories to distract from a dated backsplash

If you're working with a backsplash on the wrong side of retro, you need some budget kitchen ideas to beautify your cozy cooking space. And there's a lot you can do with just a few practical picks of happiness! So instead of choosing "make-do" kitchen essentials, invest in beautiful, unique, and sustainable kitchen products. Think shapely wood and marble chopping boards, gorgeously grainy wooden utensils, and hand-of-the-maker ceramic storage jars — your countertops will be perked up ASAP and you'll be very distracted from the not-so-pretty tiles you can't swap out.

6. Shelfie it up with an over-toilet shelf ladder

Same tile-torment scenario in the bathroom? I hear ya! And I can not shout enough about the virtues of an over-toilet shelf ladder! Amazon has the best collection of nifty designs. These wetroom wonders deliver instant storage, and a golden opportunity to get your best "shelfie" mode on to create a gorgeous display of cute bathroom decor. Mine has a "mermaid's spa" vibe going on. I barely even notice the toilet or meh tiles now!

7. Hide ancient radiators with a cover

Prehistoric eyesore radiators are a total aesthetic killer! But fear not, there's an easy solution on the toasty-home horizon... With a chic radiator cover that is! These compact "pop-on" designs, cover all the grim whilst still allowing the heating to do its radiating thing. And you can utilize the top as a shelf to display a cute flower home decor idea to elevate your overall scheme. Real cute! 

8. Invest in cute small appliances

Okay, so bulky white goods (think washing machine, fridge, freezer) might be out of your control (and budget) to shift, BUT you can totally change up a lackluster cooking space with the best small kitchen appliances. So pop that gawdawful landlord-provided kettle in the back of the cupboard, and bring in chic, affordable picks that are as stylish as they are functional. Good things come in small packages amirite?! 

9. Add another dimension with light filtering drapes

If your apartment is boxy, or perhaps you haven't got that view stripped from a National Geographic, think about setting the scene to homely comfort from the inside out with full-length drapes, waterfalling in texture and tactility. 

My ground-floor apartment is narrow and darkish, so I've opted for relaxed material full-length panels in a mid-sheer finish to give the illusion of added height, whilst creating a breezy look and feel. (In fact, they're these exact ones from H&M as listed below.)

Never be afraid to remove pre-installed blinds. Just because it's in situ doesn't mean that you have to live with it (pun intended!) I've always removed the offenders and swapped in my loves. As long as everything is returned to its move-in state, you'll be golden. 

10. Use dead wall space to manifest dreams

Worried about damaging walls with a full-blown gallery wall? Try a mindfulness-loving visualization wall instead, using tear sheets and cut-outs of inspirational images secured with paint-friendly washi tape. (Try Amazon and Etsy for cute patterned options.)

Put it out to the universe, and the universe shall deliver...

You deserve to put your feet up and relax, and that's what the best foot stools are designed to do. There are few things more instantly gratifying than taking the weight off your feet at the end of a long day, but foot stools offer more than just comfort. The models in our guide are easily assembled (if they need to be assembled at all), are suitable for various home styles, and are either easily stored or have a storage space in themselves. Here's our pick of the best foot stools currently available. 

Sturdy and reliable design pairs with a simple and neutral appearance with this classic rectangular ottoman-style option. This affordable foot stool comes in two color choices: classy black and sophisticated dark brown. This stool's well-made wooden legs can support up to 350 pounds, and a wipe-clean faux leather finish that boasts a zippered pocket. 

Who doesn't need more storage? This is a fully functional foot stool with a sponge top that makes it a comfortable place to rest your feet or even use as an occasional seat. It comes in many color options, including beige, navy, and grey. We like this foot stool's interior storage for toys, magazines, and anything else that needs to be cleared away. It can also be folded up and stored flat—a true space-saver. 

It's. So. Fluffy. This super-fun foot stool has plush, white faux fur upholstery, making it a statement piece for your living space. We just love the playful texture this will add to your home. This foot stool also has three legs with a black finish. And while this can't be used as a step stool, it's a stylish choice to rest your feet on. 

A best foot stools guide wouldn't be complete without some pattern. The Jennifer Taylor Home Jules Collection foot stool has some colorful and jazzy designs, but there are also well-tailored neutrals. We like this "Tango Blue" design, but if you're looking for something less detailed, you could opt for yellow, purple, or even a very subtle grey. This stool's upper fabric is a practical polyester, while the legs are made from durable kiln-dried hardwood. 

This Convenience Concepts choice comes in several color options and two texture choices; there is faux leather or linen to choose from. Colors include some unusual tones such as coral, tan, and steel blue. Whichever color option you select, this stool's thin legs ensure mid-century style from head to toe. The legs are crafted from solid rubberwood, and the entire design stands 17 inches tall. 

With a plush memory foam top and a two-tone linen material exterior, this is a stylish and comfortable choice that won't take up too much floor space. This foot stool can easily be tucked under coffee tables but is also useful as a children's chair. It supports up to 300 pounds, but we doubt you'll be using this as an adult chair due to its smaller dimensions. 

The verdict

The best foot stool for you depends on your style, but we'd suggest the YOUDENOVA footstool ottoman. It's a great all-rounder with a sturdy weight-bearing design. 

The Convenience Concepts Designs4Comfort ottoman stool is another stylish design. This foot stool has a timeless, mid-century shape enhanced by attractive, angled legs. 

For something that not only folds away for easy storage, but has in-built storage too, check out the WoneNice folding storage ottoman foot rest. This hollow cube gives you somewhere to stash clutter and also acts as an occasional seat. 

Why trust us?

At Real Homes, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible.

Safe racks are essential in any contemporary home. Providing storage space for a range of items, whether it be kitchenware, children's toys, holiday decorations, or garden tools, a quality safe rack can make all the difference. With a little help from us, you can get well underway in your decluttering mission.

We picked out some of the best safe racks you can buy, each of which has its own quirks. Perhaps you are after something that can hold heavy loads? Or perhaps you are shopping with size in mind? Well, spacious or sturdy, we have you covered. Our chart-topper choice is the AmazonBasics four-shelf storage unit, commendable for its affordability, mobility, and adjustability. Read on to learn more about our favorite, as well as some other brilliant options.

Things to consider:

• Size: Ensure that the safe rack you purchase can accommodate the items you want to store, taking dimensions and weight capacity into account.
• Security: Look for a safe rack with appropriate security features, such as wall anchors. Consider the weight rating and distribution as well; overloaded or top-heavy racks may tip.
• Accessibility: Consider how you will be using the rack; choose a design that allows for easy and convenient access. This may include adjustable shelves, rolling casters, or a stackable design.

Sometimes all you need is a little more space. Well, this AmazonBasics storage unit can certainly help with that. At 36-by-14-by-57.75 inches (when measured with wheels), this is a discretely sized product that won’t clutter the room. It has four shelves, each height adjustable thanks to the easy-to-use black, two-part plastic sleeves. Just clip the sleeves in place at the height you wish to set. Oh, and you have plenty of customization freedom when it comes to this; the sleeves can be set to suit you at increments of 1 inch. Another neat feature is the adjustable leveling feet that allow you to place the shelves on uneven ground. And if you need to move the rack, you can swap the leveling feet for wheels.

Providing five individual shelves, this Seville Classic rack is a handy model for tidying homes. The shelving, equipped with slip sleeves, can be adjusted at increments of 1 inch to suit your needs. Once you’re happy with the height and the slip sleeves are in place, you can get on with stacking. Each shelf can hold up to 300 pounds, so you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything too heavy. In fact, not only can it handle big loads, but it can also manage uneven flooring—you can thank the leveling feet for this. Kitchen, garage, or living room, wherever you put this classically designed construction, it won’t clash with the surroundings. Oh, and the black finish will help prevent corrosion and make for easy cleaning.  

If you are used to cooking on a large scale, you know just how cluttered your kitchen or workspace can become. That’s where the Honey-Can-Do rack comes in. At a sizable 13.8-by-35.9-by-72 inches (width, depth, and height, respectively), this five-tier safe rack is ideal. Not only is it exceptionally spacious, but it is also a sturdy choice, with shelves that can support 200 pounds each and heavy-duty chrome-plated steel construction. We should also mention that the product is NSF-approved, meaning it is suitable for home kitchen or commercial kitchen use, plus plenty of other spaces. So, whether you are storing linens, dishes, or cutlery, these adjustable shelves are a suitable selection. 

These wire shelves are a versatile and convenient storage solution, especially for those with limited space. They're durable, easy to install, and can be used to store various items, from kitchen supplies to office materials. The unit's high-quality construction and easy assembly, make it a great choice for those requiring a practical, functional, and stylish model.

Both sturdy and spacious, the Homdox rack is ideal for anyone after plenty of storage space. Resistant to rust and corrosion, it can hold up to 220 pounds and is made from steel, finished with high-polish chrome. With six shelves, each of which is height adjustable, it's a basic but ever-so-handy product that doesn't falter on quality. Shock-resistant? Check. Easy assembly? Check. Frankly, we're sold.

Let’s face it, garages tend to become messy. That’s why we have selected this FLEXIMOUNTS overhead storage rack to help you ward off unnecessary clutter. The rack is secured to a solid concrete ceiling or ceiling studs and can manage an impressive weight of up to 600 pounds. Hardware and high-quality screws are provided, and the shelving can be adjusted between 22 to 40 inches. Another thing that makes this a great pick is the fact that it stores your items overhead. Garages are rarely climate-controlled, so the floor can easily get wet or dirty—this rack avoids that issue. It also means any pests that may cross your garage floor cannot reach your valued items.

Our verdict

Well, there you have it: the best safe racks you can find. Our winner is the AmazonBasics four-shelf storage unit, a pared-back but highly functional choice that won't break the bank. At a 350-pound loading capacity per shelf, it should be sturdy enough for just about any purpose as long as you distribute the weight correctly.

Consider yourself a bit of a chef? Try the Honey-Can-Do storage shelving. It's an excellent option for kitchen storage because it's durable and sturdy. It's approved for commercial use, so it should be able to handle any cooking items you wish to store.

Why trust us?

At Real Homes,  we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible. 

The beginning of the year is a super exciting time, but it can also be kind of intimidating. Let's be real: New Year's resolutions are not easy to keep, and we tend to set ourselves really high standards and ambitious goals. 

For example, "give the apartment a makeover" feels like a really big thing to do, and it's hard to think about where exactly to start and what steps to take. 

That's why this year, I'm setting myself a list of smaller, more achievable (and affordable) projects for each month to take steps toward my Pinterest dreams. Scroll on for some major home refresh resolution inspo for decorating a small space. 

1. Brighten the bedroom

I and my husband's bedroom has a row of windows along one wall, but we still don't get nearly as much natural light as we'd like. And with just one overhead bulb, evenings have been feeling a little gloomy. That's why our first resolution is to finally bring in some bedroom lighting.

To accomplish this, we started by picking up a pair of Fado lamps from IKEA for our bedside tables. The soft light has already made such a difference in the evenings, and later this month, we're planning to apply LED strip lights to the back of our full-sized arch mirror to bring in a third source of light for the space.

2. Get courageous with color

I've always sworn by a neutral-and-green-only color palette for our home, but the longer I spend scrolling, the more I've been convinced to add some pops of pastels into our home (I'm looking at you, Matilda Djerf). 

Like most newly renovated rentals, our home has all gray and beige everything, and after learning more about dopamine decorating, I think the time has come to incorporate cheerful colors. To accomplish this, I plan to swap out our white area rug for something more colorful, decorate more intentionally with my candle selection, and find some fun cushion covers and throw blankets.

3. Curate a gallery wall

It's been over two years of living in our apartment, and we have yet to hang a single photo on the wall. We now know we'll likely be here for at least two years more, and our landlord has recently confirmed we are allowed to hang things on the wall (and it turns out, we've always been allowed to... oops). 

We both love the look of a gallery wall and have a perfect spot above our desk and radiator ready. My husband and I have both been lucky enough to travel and live abroad, and we have so many of our own images we could mix in with a selection of art prints featuring our favorite destinations.

4. Embrace culture

On a similar note, I'm taking the opportunity to hang up photos and artwork as a chance to incorporate more decor from my cultural background. My family immigrated to the United States from India, and I plan to add some photos of Indian architecture and meaningful art prints into our space.

I'm also on the lookout for candles and home fragrances that incorporate some of my family's favorite spices and scents, as well as pieces with traditional Indian materials, patterns, and textiles to add to my throw pillow and blanket rotation.

5. Sort out some spices

I've been seeing dreamy spice organization setups like this one from @bugandbrookie for years. I always say I'll buy some jars and labels, but never do. Over the past two years of living in our apartment and finding our staple meals, our spice collection has grown exponentially, and we've recently run out of room for storage.

I'm taking it as a sign from the universe that it's finally time to tackle this project, and I have a feeling that a clean, uniform set of spices will be eternally soothing to look at, no matter what stress is happening in the kitchen.

6. Spa-ify the shower

This just in: spa-worthy showers are what 2023 is all about. According to Pinterest Predicts, this year will have a major focus on aesthetic shower routines, rituals, and spa-like settings. I am a big fan of The Shower, and if you've never taken The Shower and need to know how, be sure to check out this video by Eli Rallo for all the steps you need in this ultimate self-care routine. 

To make my shower space more spa-worthy, the first thing I'll be doing is cutting the clutter. I plan to hang up a caddy to keep the sides clear, and to start using aesthetically pleasing bottles for my shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel to create an environment that is soothing to look at. I'll also be swapping my towels out for some more luxurious-feeling finds.

7. Beautify the bathroom

Outside of the shower, there are a few other ways we're hoping to beautify our bathroom this year. It doesn't have windows, and we have gray floors and greige walls, so we're always looking for renter-friendly ways to brighten things up.

We've recently moved our white ladder shelf into the space and stocked it up with washcloths, face masks, bath salts, and candles. And as a nod to our story (my husband and I became a couple in Portugal), we plan to install Portuguese-inspired peel-and-stick tiles to bring in some brightness through the flooring.

8. Green thumb goals

I love the look of nature and greenery in a home, and there are so many benefits to having houseplants. Unfortunately, I have the opposite of a green thumb, and our apartment only gets a couple of hours of sunlight each day.

As the warmer months approach, I'll begin to sparingly incorporate a few artificial plants in spots with little to no light and start researching and adding some resilient plants like succulents onto our windowsills and shelves. Hopefully, I can pick up some plant parent skills and eventually have larger plants to really up the green factor.

9. Bring on the bar cart

As a small space dweller with an open-plan kitchen and living room, I'm always on the lookout for ways to store and display kitchen items. I love the idea of a bar cart and how versatile it can be as a piece of furniture. 

While we could use a bar cart for its intended purpose when hosting, I can also picture it functioning as a hot drinks station. Our tea and coffee cabinet is overflowing, so we could display our most aesthetically pleasing mugs and cups. We could also swap out and use the cart to store our puppy's treats and walk supplies in spring and summer.

10. Repurpose meaningful pieces

My husband and I got married last year, and we have a lot of leftover wedding decor pieces. Namely, our customized neon sign, which has been gathering dust behind our dining table for months. The sign features the title of one of my favorite Hindi movies, so we're planning to style it above the sofa with large prints of our wedding photos.

We've also saved some tealight holders and a few of our favorite vases from our centerpieces to style with artificial, dried, and fresh florals and greenery this year.

11. Create a cozy bed

There aren't many things I love more than sleep, but since visitors don't really see the bedroom, it's become the space we've neglected most. This is officially the year we upgrade our sleep situation, and thanks to some major inspiration for finding the best sleep aids from Real Homes' very own sleep editor, I now have a new bedding set, satin pillowcases, and some dreamy sleep scents on my wish list.

12. Get gutsy 

I'm so excited for all of these projects, but my dreams for our apartment don't end there. I would love to repaint our walls, add a mural like fellow renter @taybeepboop's, and cover or replace our kitchen countertops and backsplash. I don't know how our landlord would feel about any of that, but I won't know unless I ask!

We've lived in our apartment for a couple of years now, and definitely feel as though we've proved ourselves as responsible tenants. Hopefully, this is the year we can really make this home ours and can add a few more projects to this list.

While decorating a small apartment can be a lot of fun, it can also be intimidating, time-consuming, and hard to get just right. However, these tips from Catherine Hooper, interior designer and founder of iSpy Home Design, proves that your space can be stunning and functional — even on a low budget. 

Here, Hooper points out what’s worth investing in, what can be skipped, what design mistakes to avoid, and more. Here’s to having the cozy yet chic living space of your dreams, bb.

1. Invest in the right pieces

When working with a small space, Hooper recommends making the largest investment in a modular sofa or sectional that offers a substantial amount of seating. This should eliminate the need to add accent chairs, which helps in the budget and clutter department.

Hooper says that a good trick is to purchase a sofa that comes with an ottoman. That way you can make it work double time as a coffee table by adding a nice big tray on top. You can also use an ottoman as extra seating when necessary.

Another investment that Hooper believes in is paint. While this might not be possible if you rent, it can make a huge impact on the overall feel and design of your space if allowed. “A lot of older apartments tend to have beige walls, and many of the more modern flipped apartments opt for cold gray tones," she says. "Neither of these choices do a small space any favors,” she explains. 

If you have a friendly landlord that's down for upgrades, investing in painting at least the living spaces in a warm white, like Benjamin Moore's Chantilly Lace or White Dove, is a smart way to add the illusion of more square footage. 

“When you have one color, the rooms flow together and seems bigger," says Hooper. "When you get into too many accent walls, it starts to close in the walls. That being said, I'm all for adding some drama by painting the bathroom a dark green or black (yes, I did say that) or adding wallpaper to the bedroom.”

While painting can be an overwhelming concept, Hooper has consistently noticed that it’s the one element that truly transforms her clients' homes.

2. Makeshift your own zones

Apartment living has its perks — there’s no long-term commitment, it’s more budget-friendly, and you can feel a sense of community — but one thing it often lacks is ample space. Depending on your unique floor plan, you might not have room for all the furniture or home elements that you were hoping for. 

One common area that lacks square footage is the kitchen. If you don’t have space for a proper dining set, Hooper suggests utilizing your kitchen island as a makeshift dining area. If your kitchen doesn’t have an island (one can dream, right?) another option is to purchase a standalone island, like this IKEA find. “This would provide you with an eating area and additional cooking prep space,” Hooper explains.

3. Ditch these items

One area that tends to get crammed quickly is an apartment living room. “There's often an expectation that every living room needs a coffee table, but if you don't have space for one and aren't going the ottoman route, then I'd choose a couple accent tables instead,“ Hooper says. “Opt for something that comes in two sizes and can be moved around easily.” 

Similarly, Hooper points out that a lot of people think they need a big media console for their TV, but mounting it is really the answer. There are plenty of streamlined, modern options out there to choose from, too.

4. Keep style and function top of mind

When it comes to decorating a small space tastefully, Hooper says it’s all about making choices that are as stylish as they are functional. “If you only have space for small nightstands you don't want to take up half the real estate with a lamp, so I'd opt for a plug-in wall sconce like this one from Crate & Barrel,” she explains. Utilizing strategies that are realistic for your space will not only free up some room for your other necessities, but it will also make your apartment less cluttered — not to mention easier to live in.

As it turns out, lighting is one of the most functional and stylish ways you can amp up your apartment’s vibe. Hooper notes that one impactful way to style a small space is to replace boring or old-fashioned flush mounts with dramatic pendants or chandeliers. Another idea: Instead of choosing a table and adding a lamp to it, Hooper suggests purchasing a lamp with a table, like this one from Homary. “Light is necessary to make a space feel bigger, but being smart about what kind of lighting you add will make all the difference,” she says.

5. Avoid these common mistakes

One of the biggest mistakes Hooper notices in apartment design is that many renters crowd their space with heavy furniture from online marketplaces or resale sites. She also consistently sees people overdo it with too many textiles. “Less is always more," she says. "Even if you're going for a maximalist vs. minimalist look, focus on unique ways to keep the amount of furniture to a minimum while making the space feel personalized."

For example, instead of placing a large rug in the living room — which can close off the space — choose a sheepskin runner and set it in front of the sofa. Hooper says that a dramatic gallery wall in an entryway can be another vibrant decor addition as opposed to the often overdone console table. 

In addition to crowding an apartment space, Hooper notices that many renters opt for only white, gray, and beige tones, steering clear of color. Many renters think that colorful furnishings make a space feel smaller, but if the walls are mostly white, a few pops of primary hues or pastels can really spruce things up. Hooper suggests trying a splash of color on a shower curtain or bedding, which can train the eye to focus less on the size of the space, and more on its contents.

6. Make a big impact with this one upgrade

When asked if there is one “must-have” design element included in an apartment, Hooper said new kitchen cabinet hardware. “I know it sounds weird but kitchens often get discarded, especially in rentals where you can't really do much to them," she explains. "This often means they end up looking like the only unstyled space. It's so easy to replace knobs or pulls without spending a lot and it makes a huge difference.” 

When it comes to executing the design, Hooper says there's no harm in mixing metals. If you have stainless appliances, you can go for gold hardware. If you have black appliances, maybe a copper finish would look cool. “The cheapest fix is to spray paint the existing pulls and/or knobs a fun but sophisticated color, like a terra cotta pink or mustard yellow, or sage green. It's a small but really easy DIY fix to a space that can get overlooked.”

Having viewed several properties within a mile radius of Grimsby town centre, first-time buyers Leila and Joe fell for the cheapest and most dated house of all.

‘We rented on and off for years and got travelling out of our systems, so we were ready to buy our first home,’ says Leila. ‘Our previous house was on the rural outskirts, and we wanted to be more central.’ As Leila had always loved her aunty’s spacious London terrace and Joe had grown up in a period home, the couple wanted a characterful house.

Luckily, the three-bedroom Victorian house they fell for had ‘good bones’ with central heating and a new roof, but also bags of potential to give it their own stamp.
‘On the day we moved in, Joe’s nana was ripping up the worn carpets in the dining room,’ says Leila. ‘And the first weekend I started with an easy job by painting
the downstairs toilet. Then we decorated our bedroom in a pale stone grey and painted the floorboards white to create a sanctuary from all the building work we had planned.’

A few months later, the dining room, tiny kitchen and utility were knocked through to create one long kitchen-diner. The ceiling was vaulted and skylights added, while a window and side door were blocked up to give more scope for placing kitchen units and furniture. 

After contacting lots of tradespeople, the couple chose a builder recommended by one of Leila’s best friends. However, there were several challenges during the four-month project. A damp proof course was an unexpected cost, and Joe had to fit the bi-fold doors with his dad because the builder wasn’t comfortable installing an unfamiliar product that Leila had sourced.