The prospect of re-styling your home can be overwhelming, but according to interior guru Ceri Rocca, spending only 24 hours tackling some of those niggling renovation jobs is no drop in the ocean; and you can spend as little or as much as you choose.
 
A little time can go a long way when it comes to home improvements, and doing it yourself is a very rewarding process. The trick is to plan ahead, set a day aside and enjoy it. Most importantly, after a hard days graft, you’ll still have time left to sit back, relax and enjoy the view!
 
Entrance
 
First impressions are everything, so the perfect place to begin your revamp is the entrance. Updated and polished chrome or brass house numbers, door knockers and letterboxes will give your property real curb appeal, and won’t cost you the earth.
 
Hallway
 
Once inside, be bold in the hallway - it’s your opportunity to inject personality and a bit of drama into your home. However, don’t be tempted to treat your hallway as a dumping ground as shoes and coats can often accumulate in this area if you let them! If you don’t have cupboards to store such items, baskets and free-standing coat hangers offer practical storage solutions that don’t compromise on style.
 
Use warm, welcoming colours that are inviting, and be daring on those vast expanses of wall by putting up some adventurous wallpaper for instant impact. Quickly freshen-up worn woodwork by re-painting or varnishing scuffed skirting boards and banisters – if you have carpet, why not expose and treat the floorboards? You could also try creating a ‘gallery wall’ by hanging a selection of framed black and white family photos in a cluster along one wall for a personal touch. 
 
Kitchen
 
You don’t have to toil for days to achieve a contemporary look in the kitchen either. Bring units up to date simply with a fresh lick of paint or varnish and by replacing the original handles with sleek brushed steel ones. On another note, replacing your old work surfaces can save you a small fortune as an alternative to fitting a brand new kitchen, and will completely transform the space.
 
Living Room
 
Give your living area the wow-factor with a few minor cosmetic changes too. Feature walls are a cost-effective way of brightening up a room and having some fun. Patterned wallpapers also make a bold statement, creating an interesting focal point in the room.
 
Use interesting fabrics and small flourishes to add panelling, borders or fringing to your curtains or blinds to revitalise out-dated textiles. You can also very quickly re-cover and embellish tired looking cushions that will instantly liven up the sofa.
 
Dining Room
 
If your table and chairs are looking past their sell by date, don’t panic, there’s no need to rush out and spend a fortune! Dress it up with a stylish table cloth or a runner to add a splash of colour and hide any unsightly marks. Dreary chairs can be restyled with a lick of paint and some comfy cushions that compliment the colour scheme.
 
Candelabras have made a come back in recent years, providing a great centre piece at meal times. If you’ve got a bit of spare cash to spend, invest in a sideboard, whether reclaimed or brand new, as these are great for storing tableware, glasses and linen, not to mention really useful at dinner parties!
 
Bedroom
 
For a chic and contemporary look, opt for neutral paint shades, or go for purples and reds if you’d prefer a romantic boudoir. Lighting effects can create ambience, so fitting wall lights, dimmer switches or simply re-covering an old lampshade will complete the look. Treating yourself to some sumptuous new bed linen is also an indulgent way to glam-up your bedroom.
 
Bathroom
 
De-cluttering your bathroom is one of the quickest and easiest ways to open up what is probably the smallest room in your house. Hiding away toiletries and loo rolls and hanging a chic mirror are easy ways to maximise the space. Replacing grimy fixtures and fittings, such as taps, will bring your suite right up to date, and avoid the disruption and expense of getting the plumbers in.
 
For those who really don’t mind rolling their sleeves up, re-grouting the tiles will have the bathroom sparkling in no time. Apply tranquil colour schemes to create a relaxing space, or zesty pastels that will energise you on dreary mornings.
 
For more information on products from the Style House, or to book a consultation with Ceri and her team, call +44 (0)1629 813 030.