Ria's Speedy Renovation Melbourne

Bathroom before

A full DIY renovation completed in 5 weeks, for less than $20,000 that also looks good? Ria of I want I want I want! kindly sent through some photos of her latest project, a 2 bedroom beachside townhouse that she bought, renovated and sold in almost no time at all. We're truly impressed with how much she had achieved in such a short space of time, see more below the jump.

How would you define your style? Relaxed! Home is a place of comfort and refuge. But my style changes dependent on the features of the house I’m working on.
What is your Inspiration for this project? As the townhouse is only two blocks from the waterfront, we went for a really relaxed beach feel.
What is your favorite element of this project? The Labrador blue walls with the white paneling in the master bedroom.
What is the biggest challenge of this project? Giving the lounge/kitchen area a real sense of space and practicality. We moved the bench across to the other side to give a greater flow through, and the checkerboard tiles give a great illusion of space.
What was is your proudest DIY? The dado walls really add character to the townhouse and the paneling only cost around $250 per room, well worth it!
What was your biggest embarrassment? In some spots (only a couple!) you can tell that my painting lacked commitment!
What is the best advice you've given or received? Whenever I can I add architectural features. There are so many homes with the bare minimum and the result is boring square rooms. It’s amazing what a difference beautiful skirts, cornices, picture rails or dado walls can make.
Any other additional info on the project? We had a budget of $20,000 to renovate the entire unit and we came in just under that. Also, local markets are a fantastic source for innovative beautiful creations, keep your Sundays free for wandering through Victoria’s markets and all they have to offer.

Thanks Ria for sharing your project with us. You can find out more about Ria's work on her website www.iwantiwantiwant.com.au.

Comments (18)

I like this renovation! now the house looks so relaxing

Looks fantastic and to think it was all for $20,000 is unbelievable! Great job, congratulations.

I'm loving the blue paint in the main bedroom, what color is that?

Vast improvement, and I love the wall panelling

Just AMAZING!!! Well Done!!

I love what you've done with the bedroom in particular. It's the same layout as my bedroom (with a balcony on one side and closet on the other). I'm curious though -- I don't see a dresser, vanity or any other furniture. Realistically, where is all your stuff?

This is amazing! It's opened up and just beautiful. I can't wait to show my husband this, half the time he doesn't believe me that you don't have to do or spend a whole lot to improve a place.

Beautiful!!! I really love the b&w tiles and the wall paneling.

You may have just inspired me to try a DIY renovation in my next home.

This is one of the most realistic renovations that AT has featured! Nothing over-the-top, just calm and comfortable. A great home at the beach!

@portlandtransplant: She flipped the house after the renovation, which means this furniture is staged. Don't necessarily need to fill up the space with a lot of pieces. Plus, a beach house is likely only going to be used certain weeks of the year; you don't need lots of stuff for the vacation home.

I am totally inspired by this! I love the harmony of the muted and repeated colours, and the clever simplicity, and the (oh-but-I-am-so-partial-to) checkerboard tiles.
Brilliant.

Really nice, I was just wondering why you need same light fixture in all rooms. It is not a good light source for kitchen or living room.

Love the bathroom makeover! I'd love to know the source of the cabinet/sink/counter as this is exactly the set up I've been looking for to do our remodel. Hope the products aren't only just available in AU! Please share.