A festive revamp

There’s nothing like an occasion to spur us into action and make us look afresh at decor.
PA Photo/HandoutPA Photo/Handout
PA Photo/Handout

And with Christmas only weeks away, there’s no more pressing task than the spare room.

If there’s a good reason why you keep the door to this room permanently closed (magnet for clutter/dumping ground for surplus possessions/last on the list for a makeover) - don’t despair.

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Sorting the spare probably needs only a few hours - simple DIY tasks, painting a feature wall or re-upholstering a headboard can work wonders.

Add in a shopping trip for new bedding and a few accessories, and you’ll complete its transformation. Make it even more painless by browsing high street and supermarket home ranges, which offer a brilliant selection of bargains.

“Focusing on a spare room’s well worth it, because you can end up falling back in love with the space. Even a simple revamp could make it into somewhere you’ll enjoying using long after the guests have gone,” says Claire Hornby, creative stylist at Barker & Stonehouse, encouragingly.

“It’s essential first to think about the space and layout that you have to work with, especially if you plan on buying new furniture, so you choose the right size and shape to suit the room’s dimensions.

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“All too often, the style of this room is an after thought and it ends up with play safe but dull decor, and a selection of mismatched furniture.

“To create a fashionable feel similar to a 5-star hotel, ensure the bed is as large and comfortable as possible, and complement with two bedside tables and a mirror.

Last but not least, have sufficient lighting - a table and a floor lamp will give guests a choice of ambience they wish to create - task lighting or soft, overall lighting. Give a priority to the room just as you would to your visitors.”

Serene sanctuary

A bedroom decorated in pale blues conjures a light, harmonious atmosphere - ideal for a room where you want guests to instantly relax and feel at home.

Space saver

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We’re all greedy for more space but can unwittingly waste it by not using every inch - and that’s most common in spare rooms. Fitted furniture solutions and space saving pieces can make all the difference.

Seasonal setting

Red, traditionally the keynote colour for the season, is perhaps an over-bold choice for a bedroom, but perfect for an occasionally used spare room.

This rich colour instantly has a cosseting, warm effect and adding luxury textures, like velvet and faux fur, will make it even more snugly.