Instant home makeovers: How to reinvent your home by Angel Strawbridge

February 21, 2021

Angel Strawbridge, the star of hit TV show Escape To The Chateau, reveals her DIY tricks and crafty refreshers.

1. A bright idea

Change white light switches or flexes for coloured options. It’s a simple swap that makes a big difference.

2. Make wood work harder

Breathe new life into old wooden furniture by stripping it back to show off its original beauty or give a great base for a fresh lick of paint. A hot-air gun and scraper might reveal a stunning patina that can be waxed to perfection.

3. Extending shelf life

Reclaimed scaffolding boards can be repurposed to make handy rustic shelves. They offer lots of storage space and look even better when varnished.

4. Give old tiles new style

Painting rather than replacing tiles is a quick way to refresh a tired area. You can even add patterns using plates, cups or FrogTape as design stencils.

5. Feature comforts

Designing your own showstopping feature wall can make a room shine. Paint shapes using stencils or create a collage effect with wallpaper.

6. Grown up grout

Rejuvenate any tiled area by regrouting in a catchy colour. I always opt for white and grey grout then add paint dye to get the look I’m after.

7. Make radiators hotter

Radiators don’t have to be an eyesore. Paint them in the same colours as your wall so that they blend into the backdrop, or be bold and choose a contrasting shade.

8. Get on board

Painting skirting boards in a contrasting shade to your walls is a quick way to make a style statement.

9. Update your image

Large mirrors can be expensive. Instead buy a large picture from a second-hand shop and replace the image with a mirror sheet. Or change the look of an old mirror by rubbing paint stripper across the reflective surface to create a distressed finish.

10. Do up your old drawers

Updating handles makes a big difference to the feel of a room. Upgrade a high-street or plain piece of furniture by adding a chic leather pull or brass doorknob for instant luxe.