DIY Living Room Makeover: Your Guide to Refreshing Your Space in London
Living Room Makeover
Thinking of refreshing your living room yourself? Great choice! A DIY living room makeover can save you money, let you show off your personal style, and create a space you’ll truly love. Whether you live in a classic Victorian terrace in Hackney or a trendy flat in Shoreditch, this guide will help you through every step of the journey.
Step 1: Planning Your Makeover
Assess Your Current Space
Take a good look around your living room. What’s working? What’s not? Maybe the sofa feels outdated, or the room is too cluttered. Jot down what you’d love to change.
Customer Experience:
Sarah from Stoke Newington shared: “My biggest mistake was jumping straight into painting without planning. I ended up with furniture that didn’t match! Definitely take the time to plan.”
Step 2: Popular Living Room Styles for London Homes
London’s homes have character, and certain styles shine brighter depending on your property type:
Contemporary Minimalism
Perfect for new builds and modern apartments around Docklands or Canary Wharf. Think neutral palettes, clean lines, and minimal clutter.
Traditional Elegance
Ideal for period homes in areas like Islington or Richmond. Classic furniture, rich textures, and ornate detailing highlight your home’s heritage.
Industrial Chic
Popular in loft apartments and converted warehouses in Shoreditch or Bermondsey. Exposed bricks, metal fixtures, and reclaimed wood create a trendy, urban vibe.
Eclectic Bohemian
Great for characterful homes in Camden or Dalston. Combine vibrant colours, mixed patterns, and personal items to create a relaxed and creative space.
Step 3: Budgeting for Your Project
Knowing the costs upfront helps manage expectations. Here’s a helpful guide to average DIY makeover costs in London:
| DIY Project | Average Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Painting (per room) | 350 – 1,000 |
| Wallpapering | 350 – 500 |
| Flooring (laminate, per m²) | 20 – 50 |
| Skirting Board Painting | 10 – 20 (per m) |
| Feature Wall Panelling | 30 – 100 |
| Lighting Upgrade | 50 – 200 |
| Furniture Upcycling | 20 – 100 |
| Soft Furnishings | 50 – 300 |
Step 4: The DIY Makeover Process
Decluttering
Start by removing unnecessary items. This gives you a clean slate and immediately makes the room feel more spacious.
Customer Experience:
Alex from Hackney Wick says: “The best part of my makeover was decluttering. It instantly made the room feel twice as big!”
Painting and Wallpapering
Fresh paint or stylish wallpaper can completely transform a room. Choose colours that complement your furniture and décor.
Updating Flooring
Consider refreshing your floors with sanding, laminate flooring, or simply adding a stylish rug to redefine the space.
Rearranging and Upcycling Furniture
Change your room’s layout or update existing furniture. Upcycling can give old pieces a brand-new life.
Customer Experience:
“Upcycling my old chest of drawers with new paint and handles cost me less than £40 and made it feel brand new,” said Priya from Brixton.
Lighting and Accessories
Update or add lighting fixtures for a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Accessories like plants, art, and cushions personalize your space without breaking the bank.
Step 5: Pros and Cons of a DIY Makeover
Pros:
✅ Saves money compared to hiring professionals
✅ Completely customizable to your taste
✅ Huge sense of personal satisfaction
Cons:
❌ Can be time-consuming
❌ Some projects might need expert skills
❌ Mistakes could mean extra costs or delays
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long will my DIY makeover take?
Usually 1-2 weeks, depending on your project’s complexity and your free time.
Do I need special tools?
Basic DIY tasks usually only require simple tools like brushes, rollers, drills, and hammers. Larger projects may need specialized tools.
Can I really do everything myself?
Most things, yes! But for electrical work or major structural changes, always hire professionals to stay safe and compliant.
Ready to refresh your living room? Happy DIY-ing!
