A “Plain and Boring Little Home” in England Becomes Colorful and Cozy
With no scope to extend or add any other rooms, we’ve maximized space and uncovered original features that were long hidden (hello, fireplace).
Glenn is the handyman, doing all the DIY projects (except plumbing and electrics), while I’m the ideas/design person. Our biggest change was our bathroom, which is now my favorite room in the house.
The garden has been completely landscaped by Glenn (who is a gardener/horticulturist) and is a calm and wild haven!
I’m a cozy person at heart and I have tried to make our home a reflection of that. Lots of rich colors both on the walls and fabrics, as well as candles galore.
Our home is warm and inviting for everyone, but really comes into its own in autumn/winter.
Describe your home’s style in five words or fewer: Colorful, cozy, traditional.
What is your favorite room and why? The bathroom!
After living with it for five years (a leaking shower, no space, and the most depressing decor imaginable), I went to town on its renovation. We completely redesigned it to maximize the space and chose the most luxurious features we could (on a budget).
The green tiles and gold fittings really work in the space, along with a calming colour on the wall and artwork that reflects our interests. It was by far the biggest project, but soooo worth it in the end.
What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? Prints from Louise Edward printmaker
Any advice for creating a home you love? Go with what you love — colour, fittings, fabrics, whatever. You are the one who has to live and love in your home.
Take inspiration from where you can — Instagram, TikTok, nature, magazines — but make it your own.
And remember, it’s only paint! If you don’t like it, it’s not the end of the world.
Thanks, Siobhán!
This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
Share your style: House Tour & House Call Submission Form