Transformation Thursday-Dining Room Progress

Here's a look at the middle of our three, downstairs reception rooms. When we bought the house, all these rooms were wallpapered 1980s style. They were very dark, and were even more so when we first viewed the property. The previous owner had very dark furniture, which didn't help! There were 3 large, clad, gas fireplaces. We ripped these out immediately. The middle room also had a funny alcove which is now conveniently covered by a huge mirror. There were also some (dodgy DIY) lights, in between which we put the bookshelf. Having removed them, we've left this arrangement as it seems to work for the space.

 Upon taking the old carpet up, we found more parquet. This created a nice flow between the living and dining room. We've kept the folding doors for the moment, but always have them open. These rooms are beginning to come together now, though are still works in progress. The inside patio doors are not exactly aesthetically pleasing, but keep the cold out from extension, and will stay until renovation time. The vertical pipes aren't my favourite feature, but again will be removed in time.

The long term plan on this side of the house involves knocking the playroom down, and rebuilding with an extra room at the back, and on first floor. The Ikea shelving in the dining room brings together all our books, and some treasures. I thing the brightly coloured drawers are effective, and there are several to choose from. I love to seek out pieces by favourite fellow designer/makers, it's great knowing seriously talented people! Lots of finishing touches needed, but hopefully you'll agree, not bad for 8 weeks after moving.

                                    

                                    


                                   

                                   

                                         

     

                              

Bookshelf , £75 and drawers, £18, Ikea
Cat rug, Achica
Alice In Wonderland Print, £39.99, Spineless Classics
Fox Cushion, Lettie Belle

Jumping Fox relief print, Hello Hello DODO

Transformation Thursday; Under the (ugly) carpet.......

Having stripped the walls of the hallway, and repainted, next up was taking up the 1980's-esque dark red carpet. Upon first viewing the house, and knowing that one room had parquet floor, I asked the estate agent what was under the carpets downstairs. In his non-existent wisdom, he stamped on the floor and told me it was concrete. Fast forward a few weeks, and on our first day in the house we took up a corner of sitting room and hallway carpets....discovering original 1950's parquet flooring throughout! Although my husband isn't a huge fan of it, I was thrilled. It needs some restoration work, but is in good condition. Must be all those years under hideous carpets! We found lino glued to the parquet, which had to be chipped away, but luckily hadn't damaged it too much. Not the only 'crime against original features' in this house, by a long chalk! Next step in the hallway is putting up some prints and possibly a runner. The girls are big fans of the flooring, as it aids their speedy running action.