Before and After: interiors blogger, Lisa Dawson’s bedroom makeover
The Revamp Restyle Reveal co-host spills all on her top styling tips that inspired her mid-century bedroom makeover
Image: Lisa Dawson
Interiors blogger, writer, content creator and co-host/founder of Revamp Restyle Reveal, Lisa Dawson, took part in the growing social media home styling challenge. Joining nine other interior bloggers, Lisa gave the master bedroom in her beloved period property a modern-meets-mid-century refresh.
We chatted to her to find out how she revamped her bedroom with thrift pieces and statement wallpaper whilst embracing the building’s classic Georgian features.
Talk us through the concept featured in your revamped room?
Image: Lisa Dawson
‘My room was previously quite a dark grey brown colour and it wasn’t one that I had chosen myself. I was keen to lighten it up by painting the walls white, but wanted to add impact with a darker colour as a contrast. I also wanted to bring in some statement wallpaper in the two dressing rooms. I wanted it to feel and look like a cool Hotel!’
Talk us through the before and after
Image: Lisa Dawson
‘Previously, the room was fairly uninspiring with a mish mash of old furniture that had been relocated from elsewhere in the house. Joe, my husband, had a plant stand as his bedside table so when I was re-planning the space that was a priority! I wanted to bring in a rug to go under the bed to add layers. Plus I wanted to create a gallery wall in the corner as a focal point.’
What design elements have inspired it?
‘I was hugely inspired by the décor at the Artist Residence where their rooms are focused on what is on the walls. I am also a fan of mid-century design and simple patterns so I wanted to keep it cool and calm.’
What, if anything, did you make yourself?
‘I didn’t make anything myself for the room but I recycled pieces from the rest of my home, such as the Persian rug and found my new dressing table in a second hand store.’
What do you think is important to consider when decorating a room like this room?
‘I think it’s important to keep it simple – it’s a room with lots of light and a big Georgian window so it doesn’t need pattern to detract. I kept the colour palette simple, dark grey and white, and then added art to this mix. That way the art stands out and is the focus of the room.’
What key interiors pieces do you think make the room and where are they from?
Image: Lisa Dawson
‘The large round mirror above the fireplace is my favourite piece in the room, it’s from soak.com. I also love my dressing table which was a £40 bargain but which also coincidentally colour matches the mid-century inspired bedside tables from Maisons Du Monde. I am also really pleased with the Pure radio which came from ao.com – it’s lovely to listen to in the morning.’
What do you think makes a house a home?
‘I run regular workshops to talk about styling your home and the one thing that always is the main focus is that you should only have in your home what you really love. If you love it, have it. Don’t be influenced by trends or friends, your home should be a reflection of your own personality.’
What are the main advantages of redecorating a period property over a new build?
‘I think that there are advantages for both new homes and period properties. Period properties often have large windows which are great for light and plenty of original features, but they also are more likely to have age related issues such as damp or require re-plastering. New builds are much simpler to upkeep and are focused on modern living, with large space rooms and social areas, but sometimes can be lacking character.’
What’s your biggest trend prediction for 2018?
‘I think that pale walls and neutrals are definitely having a comeback!’
Can you share some of your top decorating tips with us?
Image: Lisa Dawson
‘I’m a massive fan of a gallery wall and I’ve got a super easy way of planning one out. I use a rug and a template and lay out the prints prior to putting them up, then work from the bottom left hand corner upwards and outwards. I use a mixture of command strips and picture nails and this trick has never failed me!’
What tips would you give to budding interior designers about getting into the industry?
‘I’m not an interior designer but I think that the increase in use of social media for home inspiration means that it’s much easier to approach interior design as a career than it used to be. Instagram is a creative platform and the opportunities are endless.’
Why is Revamp Restyle Reveal such a great campaign to get involved in?
‘Revamp Restyle Reveal sums up everything that is good about social media – it’s a way of harnessing creative talent and sharing it with everyone. It’s a feel good project that provides inspiration and interest in an interiors industry that is booming. Although our bloggers are assisted with product by our lovely sponsors, they do all the hard work themselves – it’s not about money or hiring someone in, it’s about utilising your own skills and showing people how you do it.’
Are you a fan of Lisa’s bedroom room makeover? Let us know by tweeting us @goodhomesmag or post a comment on our Facebook page.