Take your entryway to the dark side with paint, wallpaper, dark furniture and other dark hallway ideas!
Light and bright hallways may be all the rage right now. But if you want to go for something different, why not take your hallway to the dark side with deep shades of black, grey, green and navy? Colours like these will instantly add depth and character to your home, especially paired with eclectic patterns. Ready to give it a try? Here are our favourite dark hallway ideas for adding a touch of dark to your hallway.
Decor
Dark decor pieces are a great way to add some dark elements without it costing a fortune. You can add dark coloured photo frames, a candle or two and even a dark vase.
Furniture
Dark furnishings like console tables or bench seats work so well in a hallway space. Dark timbers are another way to incorporate darker tones into your hallway too.
Paint
If you really want to go all out, paint your walls dark! A feature wall or a half wall looks awesome when done with dark paint!
Still not convinced? Check out these #+ dark hallway ideas to take you to the dark side!
1. Dark navy hallway
How gorgeous is this dark navy hallway entrance! I absolutely love this colour. When you go for a solid wall paint colour like this, it’s a good idea to break up the flatness of the expanse of dark paint with wall adornments of some kind.
If you don’t want to commit to a full dark hallway space, then why not just add a feature wall?! It’s a great way to add black to your hallway without overpowering the space.. Plus the addition of a light pendant really helps to make the space feel cohesive and thought out.
3. Deep green
Deep green is such a stunning colour that possesses so much class and opulence. I love the green paint in this space which goes beautifully with the white.
This idea is for you if you want to make the most of the dark hallway trend, yet still love a pop of colour. Adding an abstract art piece that has lots of colour will definitely do the trick! If you’re crafty, then you could totally buy a big canvas, get your favourite colours out and paint away.
5. Quirky gallery wall
I love a quirky gallery wall that features lots of cool graphic prints and quotes. And prints are perfect for adding dark colours to your hallway. Even if all your prints are quirky and different, they will work together if you ensure there’s a common element in the colours or styles.
6. Luxe lighting
Make sure you brighten up your dark hallway with gorgeous luxurious hallway lighting. The elaborate light pendant here really makes a statement with the awesome pattern it creates when illuminating onto the ceiling.
Make the most of limited hallway space by installing as many hooks as you can. I love traditional style coat hooks near the door that work so well for coats and bags. Or, you could go for contemporary hooks that work so well to hang plants.
8. Bookshelf
If you’re looking for a place to put your bookshelves, then a hallway is a great place! It really is so convenient to have all your books together in one place. And seeing as a hallway is a place you walk through often, then why not put them in there. Plus how cool do all the colourful covers look against the dark walls of this hallway!
Even if your dark hallway incorporates a lot of monochrome tones, you can add interest by opting for textured wall treatments, like panelling or timber battens.
There are two main things that are really making a statement in the wonderful world of interior design and styling at the moment, and that’s botanicals and rattan. And you can incorporate these into your dark hallway to bring life into the dark space. Think rattan planters containing cactus or a fiddle leaf fig.
11. Dark staircase
A dark staircase looks modern and masculine and it’s a great way to bring in darker tones if you don’t want to paint the walls.
If you want to create a gallery wall that’s different to most, consider combining a range of vintage mirrors. I love the idea of thrifting different vintage mirrors to create a cool gallery wall! Add a trendy light pendant and contemporary rug to modernise your space, despite the vintage touches.
13. Feature paint
This is for you if you want to keep a predominantly white wall but still want to add some depth. Who would’ve thought that just painting half the wall could look this good? Half walls are perfect if you want to keep a good dose of white freshness but also introduce some darker colours too.
If you’re moving into a place that still has its original retro tiling, then you should totally take a second to think before you pull them all up because they can look really awesome if styled correctly.
15. Navy and white
Navy and white really is such a nautical and beautiful combination. If you love black and white but want your space to look a little softer, then using a dark navy instead of black will definitely soften the space!
16. Muted colours
If you don’t want to go too dark, you might still opt for a darker toned wall paint like this lovely matte sage.
Grey tones are usually sophisticated and chic. Here, the vast expanses of grey paint have been livened up with quirky lighting and with unusual wall panelling for texture.
This hallway has so much retro flair! If you’re wanting to bring in darker tones with plenty of pattern, consider wallpaper. This teal and gold wallpaper looks amazing and adds depth and intrigue to the space.
Here is another black and white hallway space that works so well. I love the mystery of the dark wall at the end. There’s also a matching grey feature wall behind the console table. And the hexagonal mirror adds further interest.
Arches are so on-trend right now! And if you’re not quite ready to commit to changing the architecture in your home to arches, then incorporating something a little less permanent like a mirror is a great way to go. A mirror in a dark hallway is always an excellent idea to bounce light and prevent dimness.
22. Architectural archway
What an absolutely stunning architectural archway! I can just imagine the magnificent home that this incredible architecture is in. I love the arched high ceiling with the row of lantern style lamps. They help to give that vintage and eccentric look.
Love the idea of introducing black to your internal hallway but don’t want to go too dark? Consider black framed glass windows or doors. I love the row of industrial pendant lights here. All up a very contemporary space.
So there we have it! 20+ dark hallway ideas to inspire you to turn your hallway spaces into something that has a little depth and darkness. I absolutely love the hallways that incorporate colour through frames and greenery through indoor plants which really elevate the dark spaces. What dark hallway ideas will you be trying? Let me know in the comments below!
It’s amazing what you can do with Ikea furniture when you think outside the box, and we’ve scoured the internet to find the best Ikea hacks for all over the house!
Transform standard Ikea pieces into custom furniture with these hacks using standard styles available all year round, with amazing results.
Here’s the 30 best IKEA hacks
1. Boho Kallax Whitewash Revamp
Turn brand new into boho with this beach-house worthy hack. Photo by TheMommyWood
We love a shiny and pristine Kallax bookshelf as much as the next person but this distressed/whitewashed version by The Mommy Wood has so much character we can’t help but wonder ‘what if we whitewashed every Ikea piece we own?!’.
This ingenious hack adds instant beachy-boho vibes to any room, particularly when paired with the woven Branäs baskets. The key to pulling off this project comes down to how you prepare and paint the Kallax laminate. Ensure a great end result by following this tutorial.
2. Woven Placemat Coastal Cushions
Don’t spend a fortune on expensive hand-woven cushions, make your own with a couple of placemats! Photo by Stylkea
Continue the beachy boho vibes into your sitting area or bedroom with Stylkea‘s placemat hack. Select from woven placemats including Ihållig, Samtliga and Sluten, then sew two matching placemats together with twine and a yarn needle. Pad with stuffing (available at Spotlight) and voila, you have coastal chic cushions.
3. Bespoke Bestå
Good, better, Bestå. Photo by The Aesthetic Eye for Pretty Pegs
Customisation is key when it comes to transforming a standard Ikea piece into something special. Give your off-the-shelf cabinetry a high end look with bespoke handles or knobs.
Make your Bestå bespoke with some new (or old) doorknobs. Choose from IKEA’s range or visit a salvage yard or antique store for knobs that will ensure your Bestå is unlike anyone else’s.
4. Malm Decal Makeover
Decorate with decals. Photo by Locco Stickers
Not all Ikea hacks are created equal. While some are labour intensive, others are a cinch. Like this one, that transforms a standard chest of Malm drawers into a statement piece with just a pack of decals.
Locco Stickers has made the Malm makeover process as easy as pie by selling pre-cut decal kits. Their range features everything from pink peonies to arty abstract patterns like this one.
5. Luxe Gold Stockholm Sideboard
The Stockholm sideboard just got (even more) stylish. Photo by Kristi Murphy
The Stockholm sideboard seems perfectly fine…until you see this luxe hacked version by Kristi Murphy DIY! A generic sideboard becomes downright spectacular with the addition of four hairpin legs and brass strips.
Just the thing to give your living room that modern mid-century look! This one definitely wins Don Draper’s tick of approval.
6. Custom Statement Bench
Get more bums on seats with a bespoke Norråker bench. Photo by Alice & Lois
Only having a couple of armchairs in your apartment is fine and dandy until you want to have a bunch of friends over for a Netflix binge. Don’t let a lack of seating options get between you and a viewing party with your pals; whip up a bespoke bench to accommodate extra visitors.
DIY queens Alice & Lois give an unassuming wooden bench a completely new look with some foam, a staple gun and a swathe of stylish fabric. While the particular bench they feature in their DIY is not available in Australia, the Norråker design is very similar and is available down under.
7. Raskog Indoor Plant Stand
Let your plants chase the sun in a Räskog trolley. Photo by Succulents & Sunshine
Give your indoor jungle the opportunity to thrive by growing it on a Råskog Trolley that you can move around the house to capitalise on the sunniest spots throughout the day.
Either place your succulent pots loose on the Råskog shelves or follow Succulent and Sunshine’s steps to transform each shelf into an individual garden bed overflowing with sensational succulents. If you go for the latter option you’ll need window screening material, succulent potting mix (available at Bunnings), Sphagnum Moss and lots and lots of succulents!
8. Kitchen Island Makeover
How much can you bench? Image via Jen Lou Meredith
If bench space is at a premium in your kitchen you’re going to love this Kallax hack by Jen Lou Meredith. Bulk up your bench space while also creating additional below-bench storage by converting Kallax into a floating unit for your kitchen.
Start by attaching caster wheels to the base of your Kallax, then move on to creating the bench top using wooden chopping boards. Cut your chopping boards to size and seal with Skydd wood treatment oil before attaching to the base unit with glue or double sided tape.
Full disclosure: this DIY requires power tools. If you get stuck at any point and need assistance you can always enlist a handyman to help with the hard stuff.
9. Sneaker Shelves
Get your kicks by keeping all of your sneakers on show. Photo by @dayswithnina on Instagram
Don’t hide your shoes away in boxes or at the bottom of your closet. Take a moment to admire your kicks collection each and every day by displaying your most prized possessions on a Lack wall shelf.
While most Ikea shoppers would only think to store books, DVDs or bric-a-brac on their Lack shelves, this clever sneaker head opted to arrange his favourite sneakers on the shelves (which just so happen to be the perfect size for shoes).
10. Coloured Kura Kids Bed
Bed time just got better with this Kura bed hack! Photo by KonceptGrey
The Kura reversible kids bed in white and pine is Scandi chic but few children appreciate a paired-back Scandinavian approach to design. If your little one prefers pink to pine, KonceptGrey‘s Kura bed hack is likely to make bed time a lot more fun! Simply add a lick of paint to the pine edging and decorate the plain white panels with wrapping paper applied with spray adhesive.
11. PS Cabinet Makeover
Create a seriously sophisticated sideboard with two PS Cabinets. Photo by The Little Wild One
Love the retro PS Cabinet? Make your PS twice as nice by stacking a second unit on top to create a cool sideboard with plenty of storage.
The Little Wild One explains how to remove the legs to combine two units into one but warns against trying to replicate her stippled paint effect as it can be a costly affair. It’s nice to know we’re not the only ones who have experienced the frustration of a #DIYFail!
12. Kids Play Kitchen
Your mini MasterChef will be cooking up an imaginary storm in no time with this Bekväm hack! Photo by @from_ck_to_cr on Instagram.
Got a mini-me desperate to copy everything you do? Next time you’re whipping up a meal, keep them entertained with a kitchen of their own. You could splurge on on the Duktig play kitchen, which sells for $129, or save your coins by spending only $18.99 on a Bekväm step stool that can be converted into a mini stove in a few simple steps.
Glue 2-3 place mats or coasters to the top of the stool to act as hobs (or just paint them on), then attach knobs to the front panel for your stove controls and hooks to the side to hang utensils. Bon appetit!
13. Drawers to Desk
This hacked unit is a wheely good addition to any home. Photo by In My Own Style
The DIY equivalent of a Ladette to Lady style makeover, this transformation of a chest of drawers into a rolling desk is nothing short of incredible. The brainchild of Diane from In My Own Style, who was inspired to replicate a piece of antique furniture owned by her college room mate, this hack is a doozy. Best of all this project is compatible with a number of Ikea drawers including Malm, Kullen and Rast.
14. Wrapping Paper Holder
Clear the clutter with a designated spot for your wrapping paper. Photo by Make & Do Crew
In the months since the plastic bag ban came into effect many Aussies have found themselves stuck with a seemingly useless Variera plastic bag holder. Make & Do Crew has a solution that is perfect for an arts and crafts room! At 45cm high and 13cm deep Variera is the perfect wrapping paper holder. Depending on the size of your paper you can conveniently store around five to six rolls in each container.
15. DIY Donut Wall
Donut worry, be happy! Photo by Ikea Hackers
Cement your status as host/hostess with the mostest by treating your friends and family to a donut bar at your next party. Click here to check out Ikea Hackers‘ guide to transforming a humble Lack coffee table into the donut bar of your dreams with paper straws, doilies and paint. Perfect for baby showers, birthday parties or any other event that would be enriched with a wall of donuts (so….everything).
16. Bedside Table with Bulk Storage
Give your Rast the razzle dazzle with a mid-century makeover. Photo by Design Sponge
Never lose track of your phone charger, slippers, book or air conditioning remote ever again with a bedside table that’s brimming with storage. A cost effective alternative to mid-century night stands that often retail for $500+, thisRast hack by Ferren Gipson, as featured on DesignSponge, is cheap yet chic, with three generous sized drawers for all of your essentials.
You’ll need wood filler, leather straps, teak stain, black paint, nails and strong glue to execute this fabulous project.
17. DIY Desk
Create a custom desk to fit into any space with only three items. Photo by Beauty Ressort
Don’t let an uninspiring work station put you off cramming for an exam or completing an important project. Create a productive environment on a budget with a desk made from two sets of Alex drawers with a Karlby worktop positioned on top.
Ideal for students, artists or anyone who spends long hours at their desk and needs plenty of room to spread out, this hack can be modified to fit just about any space – simply add more drawers or a longer worktop to maximise your available area.
Beauty Resort‘s blog post about this Ikea hack is written in German but the concept is so simple that the language barrier shouldn’t be a problem.
18. Trone Storage Transformed
Play the Game of Trones with a shoe cabinet that converts into just about anything! Photo by Ikea
Turns out that even the folks at Ikea love a good Ikea hack! We’re feeling so inspired about the limitless possibilities of the Trones shoe cabinets after reading this blog by the Swedish furniture giant.
From tidying up entertainment areas to ensuring Fido’s most treasured possessions never get lost, all the way through to keeping champagne chilled during an al fresco affair, it turns out Trones has far more to offer than we first thought!
19. Luxe Mirror Side table
Turn your bedside table into a work of art with this amazing hack. Photo by Ich Designer
Lack just got luxe thanks to this amazing hack by Ich Designer! Offering a truly stunning end result, this project doesn’t even require any special tools – just scissors, double sided tape and acrylic plexiglass that has been cut to size by a professional*.
Use your luxe Lack as a bedside table to give your bedroom a boutique hotel vibe, or place it in the lounge to attract ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahs’ from everyone who stops by for coffee.
*There are a number of acrylic sheet retailers across Australia who supply plexiglass in a variety of colours and will cut pieces to size – try Allstar Plastics or Cut to Size.
20. Handpainted Art Armchair
Go from boring to bold with an arty armchair hack. Photo by Sugar & Cloth
Plan your pattern on a large piece of paper beforehand then go to town with a foam brush and foam pouncer (available at art supplies stores). If you’re nervous about starting with an armchair sized canvas, work your way up to this project by decorating a plain cushion cover first.
21. DIY Dog Raincoat
Keep your doggo dry with a DIY raincoat. Photo by Ikea Hackers
A raincoat is a necessary accessory when it’s raining cats and dogs outside and your best friend really needs to answer the call of nature. Keep their coat dry and ensure you never lose track of them (even in low light situations) with this pawfect project by Ikea Hackers. You’ll need a Knalla shopping bag, an elastic band, a reflective strip, velcro and a sewing machine to complete this project. No sewing machine? Hire a seamstress to help.
22. Wall Mounted Drawing Station
Every child is an artist. Encourage their creativity with a canvas as limitless as their imagination. Photo by Arin Solange At Home
It’s a simple fact of life that kids love to draw. And once they run out of paper, they’re likely to turn their attention to your lovely clean walls, eeep! Keep them occupied for hours on end with a wall mounted easel that stores more paper than they’ll know what to do with!
Create the canvas for your budding Botticelli’s next masterpiece with Ikea’s Racka curtain rod, Raffig finials and Betydlig curtain rod holders, plus a large roll of craft paper.
23. Salad Bowl Modern Lighting Fixtures
Transform your living room lights from bland(a) to beautiful! Photo by Aimée Mazzenga for Apartment Therapy
You don’t make friends with salad but you can certainly make some pretty amazing lighting fixtures with salad bowls, as this hack by Apartment Therapy proves.
Ranging from $1.99 to $9.99 the Blanda Blank serving bowls are an affordable alternative to expensive designer pendants. Check out the full DIY, covering everything from painting to drilling and wiring, here.
24. Scandi Style Wall Organiser
Organise your life with the Luröy slatted bed base. Photo by Ich Designer
A slatted bed base belongs in the bedroom, right? Not necessarily! Although designed to support your mattress, it turns out the Luröy slatted bed base is also a great tool to help keep your bathroom, laundry, kitchen and study organised.
When hung from a wall with two sturdy hooks Luröy instantly becomes a base plate from which you can hang baskets, bags, magazines, clipboards and even shoes. Check out Ich Designer for bulk Luröy inspo.
25. Colourful Rattan Chair Yarn Bomb
Keep calm and yarn bomb! Photo by Brittany Griffin for Brit + Co
Add a pop of colour and personality to any area with a yarn-bombed rattan Stockholm chair. Yarn bombing, the practice of covering objects with crochet, is easy-to-do, especially with step by step instructions by Brit + Co.
Feeling particularly thrifty and/or eco-friendly? Instead of buying yarn you can also use strips of jersey cut from old clothing.
26. Vittsjö Colour Upgrade
Vittsjö in vivid teal. All your need is some paint! Photo by Happy Go Home
Vittsjö is one of Ikea’s most-hacked items and with good reason – it’s such a versatile piece!
If the black-brown finish of Vittsjö isn’t to your liking, change things up with a couple of cans of spray paint in a colour of your choice. But why stop there when you could also add wooden panels to box in some of the shelves like Happy Go Home did?
27. Faux Fur Stool
Your bedroom will look pretty in pink with this super simple hack. Photo by Dainty Dress Diaries
Nineteen years into the ‘new’ millennium and millennial pink is still proving to be one of the most popular colours on the colour wheel! Add a touch of this on-trend hue to your dressing area with a quick and easy Marius stool hack.
Waste not want not with toys made from cardboard boxes. Photo by Petit & Small
A shopping trip to Ikea is enough to send any child loopy. Reward their patience (and keep them occupied while you tackle the flat pack) by making toys from Ikea furniture boxes. Whether it’s a cardboard stage, a jumping jack puppet or mountains to sit alongside a train set, the only limit to the toys you can make with Ikea boxes is your imagination! Get inspired with Petit & Small.
29. Movable Art Display Wall
A boutique inspired display wall is perfect for displaying art in a rental! Photo by Sinnen Rausch
If your landlord has a blanket ‘no hooks’ policy, chances are your art collection is gathering dust in a corner somewhere. Give your favourite photos and paintings a place to shine, without voiding your bond, with a movable art wall.
Take a leaf out of Sinnen Rausch‘s book and create a movable art wall so beautiful that it’s a work of art in itself with MDF board, a few Mosslanda picture ledges and artworks displayed in Ikea frames of your choosing.
30. Spice Rack Library Storage
Add picture books to the Bekväm spice rack and you have lovely little library! Photo by ProbablyActually
Encourage a love of reading from a young age by ensuring your little ones favourite books are always within reach. A beautiful way to display picture books of all sizes, and avoid piles of books on the floor, this hack by HomeEdit utilises the super affordable Bekväm spice rack.
Simply screw the racks to the wall at the perfect height for your kiddo, throw a couple of cushions on the floor and you’ve got a reading nook ideal for kids of any age. Depending on the colour scheme of your child’s bedroom you can also paint the shelves to match.
That should keep you busy! Let us know in the comments if you know any other fantastic Ikea hacks or furniture transformations.
Inspired to keep transforming your home? Check out these 50 Kmart hacks!
If you’re selling your home you’re aiming for one thing: maximising the return on your investment. This means being smart about presenting the property to future buyers, and carefully considering how much time and money you put in to preparing the property for sale.
As a property stylist, I understand how properties are sold, and that there are many factors that will determine the value of your home. You can’t change the location and land size, but you can change the aesthetics.
Don’t be fooled. Preparing property for sale doesn’t require months and $10,000’s spent on renovations. Whilst renovations add value, they can also be very costly. Overcapitalisation when renovating is a common mistake, but there are some surprisingly easy ways to add value to your home.
Here’s 5 surprisingly cheap ways or steps to add value when selling your house
Follow these easy steps, which can be completed within a day and cost less than $1,000, to instantly add value when selling a property:
The quickest way to add value when selling a property is also the simplest; tidy and remove clutter. Over time, residents accumulate more and more “stuff”. This “stuff” occupies space making a property appear smaller than it really is.
What is this “stuff”? Anything that isn’t essential for presentation.
Consider packing away these items to make rooms appear cleaner and larger:
Kettle & toaster
Bins
Sports equipment
Toys
Excessive books & magazines
Cleaning & bathroom products
Iron & ironing board
Laundry baskets
Anything that can be placed in a cupboard, wardrobe or drawer should go. But watch out – don’t stuff these storage areas until they burst! Potential buyers will open storage spaces to imagine the room required for their belongings. If you overload these spaces it could give the impression of limited storage space.
If necessary, pack away items and store them off the property.
Clean windows make a property feel fresh. Image: The Urbane Property Stylist
2. Clean walls, doors and windows
Basic cleaning is obvious. Everyone will vacuum carpets, sweep and mop the floor, tidy and clean the bathroom when preparing a home for sale. Yet many sellers overlook the main structure of the house: the walls, doors and windows. These might go unnoticed by sellers, but not by buyers.
Marks accumulate on walls, doors and windows through everyday wear and tear, and over time you become accustomed to their state. A gradual build up of scuffing on a wall or marks around a door handle can be difficult to distinguish when you see the space every day.
Even if potential buyers can’t quite pinpoint what it is they will leave feeling that the property is tired and old.
Make sure you check and clean these often-overlooked areas:
Door frames and doors, especially around handles
Light switches
Kitchen cupboards, especially around handles
The cupboard under the sink
On top/underneath whitegoods and appliances
Power outlets
Light fixtures
Window cleaning is an insignificant cost, but an effective investment when selling your home. Professional window cleaners are incredibly quick and will complete the average home, inside and out, within three hours. In the meantime, you can start on the walls with magic erasers.
Place furniture to allow clear flow through a room. Image: The Urbane Property Stylist
3. Create flow and space in every room
Whether or not you believe in Feng Shui there’s no denying that the layout of a room has a big impact on buyer perception. A cramped or unintuitive layout makes a room feel small and unwelcoming.
The aim is to create an appealing, and accessible, vision of life in the property, so rearrange furniture or remove any items that make a room feel busy or heavy.
Place large furniture against walls and away from entranceways to maximise space and flow through each room. Buyers should enter a room without seeing the back of a couch or the side of a bed. There should be a clear path from the entranceway to the key space within the room.
If your existing furniture is crowding a room then consider downsizing. This may require removing an armchair or side table. Don’t let yourself be constrained to functionality. For example, if the lounge room layout could be improved with it the TV located against a different wall, then do it. Don’t hesitate to move the TV away from the antenna point.
4. De-personalise the house
Potential buyers don’t want to feel like they are moving into another family’s home – they want to picture how their own life might play out in the space. A key factor in adding value when selling is to allow people viewing the property the opportunity to imagine themselves in the home without being distracted by the current residents’ personal items.
Buyers should walk away from an inspection with no knowledge of the current residents – who they are, what they do or what they like – as this can unconsciously create bias.
While it might sound cold, you should remove any clue that the property is currently occupied. Follow this checklist:
Take down all family photos
Tidy away kids’ toys
Ensure the fridge is clean of bills, invitations and even magnets
Pack away any pet items
Place clothing, shoes and bags out of sight
Remove personal toiletries from the bathroom
Remove used towels – but make sure there are fresh ones hanging on towel rails
Hide letters that have arrived at the property
Tidy the garden for an instant value add. Image: The Urbane Property Stylist
5. Clean up the garden and outdoor spaces
Getting the garden and outdoor spaces in shape can make a big difference to the way people perceive the value of a property. Potential buyers can be turned off by the thought of a high-maintenance garden, so make sure you’ve taken care of those once-a-year jobs like pruning and oiling the deck before you sell.
A month out from the first home open:
Prune any overgrown shrubs, hedges or edging
Weed garden beds and remove any dead plants
Pressure wash the driveway, deck or paving to remove any dirt or mould
Oil or restain decking
Before every inspection:
Mow the lawn and whipper snipper edges
Sweep up fallen leaves from the lawn, deck or paving
Clear spider webs from corners, gutters and around downpipes
If garden beds are looking a little bare invest in neutral ground coverage:
Use pebbles as an alternative to grass or to cover unattractive dirt patches
Throw down mulch to instantly bulk out garden beds that are too large to completely fill with foliage
Don’t spend big planting exotic foliage that may not be to a new buyer’s taste – try classic greenery like a Japanese box bush or Little Gem magnolia.
Whilst a lot of value can be added within a single day, it pays to start the garden work early if you want to present a garden that looks lush, healthy and tidy. The efforts of a professional gardener will be realised fully after several months of growth, so call in landscaping help early if you intend to plant anything.
All of these steps can be achieved at low cost by yourself or with a little assistance and will instantly add value when preparing property for sale. If you’re willing to take these steps it’s worth considering property styling to really transform the space and maximise the sale price.
Need a hand with repairs, cleaning or gardening before you sell? Find anything you need on Airtasker.
For a chic interior to suit every guest you can't go wrong with Scandinavian style. Here's how to create a bedroom on a budget with IKEA winners that punch way above their price.
Looking for a calm but cosy interior style that will turn any plain bedroom into a chic retreat? Scour home magazines, Pinterest boards or inspirational Instagram feeds and you’ll see endless homes filled with blonde timbers, minimal design and an array of softly textured grey and pink goodness that is somehow both fresh and timeless. This Nordic magic is Scandinavian style, and it’s the interior design trend gift that keeps on giving.
Minimal, yet inviting.
Characterised by functional minimalism Scandi inspired pieces are readily available and can be very affordable. I set out to refresh a spare bedroom on a budget so it was a perfect choice for a cheap and cheerful makeover that would suit any visitor.
For range, price and accessibility you can’t go past the original Swedish furniture and homewares giant, so got out of the IKEA catalogue and started planning. I came up with eight versatile items that will completely transform a plain room for under $300. Read on for the shopping list, my thought process on styling each element and of course, the before and after!
The room, before:
The moodboard:
The mood? Calm, but cosy.
The shopping list:
Eight perfect pieces to restyle a plain space.
a. Sammanhang set/2 glass dome with base, cork $14.99
Cork brings both tone and texture to a space, adding warmth to a room with light-coloured surfaces. These glass domes with cork bases from IKEA are a great filler piece that can be left as they are or used to display items such as jewellery, or perhaps an air plant. These functional boxes are super Scandi – the clean lines are cool and contemporary, but the cork has a retro edge. I love these simply placed together on the bedside table for decorative purposes and to bring a natural element into the space.
b. Indira bedspread, grey $29.99
The hero of every bedroom is the bed, so you want it to look and feel cosy and inviting. I’ve chosen this affordable grey bedspread to layer over the existing white quilt to bring in a darker tone, complementing the visual weight of the bedside table. My tip is to buy a larger-sized blanket so that there’s plenty of fabric to drape casually over the end of the bed, falling evenly down to the floor.
3. High pile floor rug, pale pink $49
Who doesn’t want a gorgeous soft feeling underfoot when they get out of bed? I love the shape and the shade of this pink floor rug and at only $49 it really is a great feature item to use when decorating. This particular design is also available in white and grey. I’ve placed this slightly under the bed so it sits out in the space where you’ll first place your feet in the morning, but if you have more space you could bring it out further to break up the flooring and show off the distinct shape.
4. Vilto storage stool, black $32.99
For the bedside table, I went with the Vito storage stool which not only adds a bold element to the space but is extra functional as both a side table and magazine/book holder. The design is very Scandinavian and also comes in ash timber if lighter tones are preferred. This is a flat-pack item, so if constructing furniture isn’t high on your want-to-do list, you could always get someone to build it for you. This stool makes a perfect bedside table with enough room to place a lamp and bedside essentials such as water, reading glasses or a favourite candle. The fabric magazine holder is a great place to store books and a tablet conveniently but safely out of the way.
5. Harört cushion, light pink $24.99
These cushions are a brand new design by IKEA and are the perfect shape and size for a bed. The subtle light pink works well with the darker shade of pink of the floor rug. These cushions are the perfect size to sit in front of standard pillows, and make for a great layering element without creating a soft-furnishing mountain. Using just two of the cushions on the bed is enough to make a statement – Scandinavian style is invitingly simple, so these add just the right amount of colour and texture for a relaxed bedroom.
6. Mathea throw, white $14.99
I’ve used this gorgeous throw to drape on top of the existing quilt cover and grey blanket to really make the bed feel warm and inviting. It may be white but it’s far from boring, layering another texture into the space. When placing a throw blanket don’t worry too much about it being perfect – starched overtucking is a thing of the past. The look you want is more liveable, so simply throw it over the bed and play around with how it sits until it blends in well with the other layers.
7. Beräkna vase, clear $7.99
A clear glass vase is a must-have item for every home, and flowers are always welcome in a bedroom. I’ve chosen fresh of blooms, but consider an artificial arrangement if you’re conscious guests might be sensitive to pollen.
8. Riggad LED work lamp $99
To me, this sleek, simple bedside lamp ties the whole Scandinavian-style bedroom together. A lamp is a functional addition to any bedside table, and the beauty of this design is that it also offers wireless charging which is so handy to have beside the bed – no need to worry about visitors who have forgotten charging cables! The streamlined lamp design allows maximum light without overpowering the space, which is often tight in a spare room.
The room, after:
Decorative but functional elements.
So as you can see, it really is easy to redecorate and create a chic, minimal and inviting Scandinavian style in your home with just a few key pieces for a very reasonable price. The addition of just 8 items, which came in at a total of $298.93, plus a few hours of your time will turn any boring room into a magazine-worthy space to welcome weary visitors.
If you’re inspired to give your guest room a makeover I’d love to see the results – comment below or tag @airtasker / @thediydecorator to share your before and after photos!
Before and after redecorating:
Haven’t gotten to the decoration stage yet and still need to assemble the IKEA furniture? Find someone to help out on Airtasker.
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a cheeky Kmart trip for an interior overhaul without blowing the bank?
Kmart’s homewares selection has been transforming since Kate Hopwood took over the design team in 2006, and now their affordable, on-trend designs have made their products a staple in most Australian households – which means as Kmart connoisseurs we must differentiate!
We’ve scoured the internet to bring you the 50 best-ever Kmart hacks we could find. And the kicker? All the products we found are still available.
Now, let’s get our hands dirty and get redecorating.
Perfect for both indoors and outdoors this hack was shared by Kmart themselves. Using the A Frame Garment Rack and some hanging planters they’ve given a whole new meaning to statement pieces.
2. Hamptons Style Cubby House
We must admit this had us doing a double take. With a fresh coat of paint and kids’ outdoor furniture to match, Alicia from @hudson_and_harlow transformed the Kmart Wooden Cubby House into something right out of the Hamptons with this stylish cubby house hack. Mum goals!?
A post shared by A L I C I A (@hudson_and_harlow) on
3. Bathroom Side Table
This clever hack features the Kmart Round Table transformed into a trendy bathroom side table. Layering a wooden chopping board and concrete tray on top of this Scandi-style base creates the perfect podium for bathroom essentials.
Two words – LAUNDRY GOALS! The laundry can often get overlooked when it comes to styling but this is all the inspiration we need to change that, because if you’re going to be in there doing the washing you may as well make it a zen space. The talented Bel from @bfree_style styled the Kmart Hexagon Shadow Boxes as laundry shelves, which are perfect for storing laundry powder (tip: tip it into a ceramic vase or jar for instant chic), brushes and stain remover but also a great little spot for your indoor plants and decor.
5. Bathroom Display
@styledbywillowhome shared this one all the way back in 2015 and we’re still loving it! In this nifty hack, the Kmart Marble Inlay Serving Board is repurposed as a bathroom display, which will add instant boutique-hotel cool to even the most boring bathroom.
@kmartgrapevine
6. Luxe Bar Stools
This is one of our personal favourite hacks by @leilahandlylahome. With just a couple of cans of gold spray paint, she transformed the Black Industrial Stool into something straight out of a magazine! Check out her “Kmart Hack” Instagram story for a step-by-step tutorial. Bonus, this hack involves a trip to Bunnings too. Winning!
This mesmerising piece of art was created by the very talented Alyssa Thomas art. Using an acrylic pour method and some gold spray paint she transformed the Storage Wire Basket Table into something magical.
Speaking of spray painting the Wire Basket, Nola Dixon shared this nifty hack on Facebook: “I cut the handles off and glued the pink and white check cork placemat and made a bedside table.” – a super cute side table that won’t look too heavy in a small space.
Image via Facebook
9. Luxe Concrete Top Industrial Coffee Table
This hack by the Style Curator transforms the $29 Kmart Industrial Coffee Table into a luxe concrete top table. “Coating the veneer in a concrete render wouldn’t just improve the scratch resistance and lifespan of the coffee table, it’d also give it a more luxe and natural finish!”.
Check out the step-by-step tutorial here. It’s a bit of effort, but totally worth it!
What’s better than a Kmart trip? A Kmart x Ikea trip!
Perfect for smaller backyards, this vertical herb garden hack by Tiana from @ti.s_affordable_styling features a Decorative Bamboo Ladder and some hanging planters from Ikea. We can’t wait to try this one!
Using grey paint and some other bits and bobs, this talented mummy from @bula.home transformed the Wooden Play Gym into a chic Scandinavian-style baby play station.
12. Moon Shelf?
This hack was created by the team at Bear and Sparrow. The talented duo transformed the Plywood Round Wall Shelf into a sleepy moon shelf, perfect for your children’s bedroom. You can view the step-by-step instructions here.
13. Hallway Bench Seat
With a fresh coat of white paint and a comfy cushion seat, this outdoor Oasis bench to indoor hallway bench makeover by Belinda from @belinda_leigh_design has us dreaming of Hamptons-style living. This piece makes a great drop zone near an entrance – just add coat hooks above.
14. Basket Lampshade
Brooke from @myhomeofboho expertly turned the Seagrass Low Basket into a boho lamp shade for easy, breezy island vibes.
The vinyl adhesive roll has become a staple for Kmart DIYs. If done right it can really help turn something basic into a statement piece. In this hack, @hannah2503 transformed the round side table by spraying the legs with silver spray paint and covering the tabletop in marble vinyl adhesive.
Spray paint is great, but have you tried stencils? This folk-style bedside table makeover by @thisoldhousestudio features the Oak Look Side Drawer painted and stencilled for a gorgeous decorative look that will bring character to any room.
This Pinterest hack features an assortment of Canisters used as succulent planters. Succulents are a great indoor plant; they require low maintenance, only need to be watered once a week or so and can quickly brighten up any space in the house.
18. Makeup Brush Holders
Perfect for storage, this handy organisation hack by @kmartlovers_ features the Brush and Toothpaste holders as makeup brush holders.
19. Pegboard Playwall
Calling all boho mums! Featuring tiny teepees and handmade peg dolls this is any kid’s dream dollhouse. This creative hack shared by @theartisansbazaar transforms the classic Peg Board into a kids’ playwall.
20. Outdoor Champagne Bucket
Cheese platter? Outdoor table? Ice bucket? Featuring multiple uses for the white planter and round serving board this this clever hack by @sbhshoppingtown has us totally ready for summer parties.
This one’s for all the Scandi fans. Along Came Wolfe hacked a white frame by replacing the standard white mat board with a thin piece of plywood to transform a basic frame into something really cool to show off a favourite print. More details here.
Image via ALONG CAME WOLFE
22. Boho Tassel Cushion
Another clever hack by Along Came Wolfe features the Jersey Woven Bath Mat expertly made into a cushion. “I cut it in half, added tassels and made it into a cushion”. More details here.
Image via ALONG CAME WOLFE
23. Luxe Marble Table
Marble tables are a trend that’s here to stay. Debbie Lemm shared this idea, and we are in love. She sprayed painted the Marble Side Table in gold, perfect for adding a touch of luxe without breaking the budget.
In case we haven’t convinced you yet, here’s another one..
What happens when you add Twinkle Lights to an Ambient Glass Vase can only be described as something magical. This hack by @tango2plus will add the perfect touch of mood lighting to any room. These would be a gorgeous styling element or as a table decoration for a special event too.
25. Macrame Cushion Cover
Boho macramé accessories can add the perfect touch of chic to any home. @_ashlee_white_ shows us just that with this cushion cover hack. All you need is a $4 Kira Cushion, some Jute Rope, patience and a couple of other bits and bobs. You can watch the tutorial here.
@Lizzizzysabode had us at Fiddle Leaf Friday? Now that we’ve learnt to macrame from Hack 25, we’re going boho chic all the way! All you need for this hack is a Cache Pot and some Jute Rope.
Shared by Kylie Jones on Facebook, for this clever organisation hack all you need to do is purchase a mesh stand and hook on your earrings! That’s it – no extra work is needed. Organised wardrobe AND a cute display? We’re sold.
PS If you purchase the mesh stand we’ve linked above you can use space underneath to store books, a cute little indoor plant or even the twinkle light lamps from tip 24.
Image via Facebook
28. Beer Crate
What do you get when you drill together 6 bamboo pen cups, 2 paddle boards and some dowels? The best “handmade” Father’s Day gift ever. More details can be found on @lookwhat_i_found. Just add craft beer. You’re welcome.
Multifunctional furniture is always welcome, especially when kids tend to outgrow things so fast. This brilliant hack shared by Insta mummy @hayleyaholland features the Bamboo Step Stool as a toddler dinner table.
PS This would also make a great arts and crafts table. Just pop down a plastic placemat to protect it from any paint spills.
Fun and functional, this super organised storage hack will help you put away all those pesky toys you’re always stepping on, without having to dig through a bottomless toy bucket. Shared by Joëlle Skinner, this clever storage system features a bamboo towel rail, some curtain clips and large ziplock bags.
Image via Facebook
31. Baby Wardrobe
Another bamboo towel rail hack that’s been doing rounds is the baby wardrobe hack that downsizes the freestanding exposed wardrobe trend. Since baby clothes are so tiny a towel rack provides the perfect height for your kid’s wardrobe – and you can enjoy their cute outfits all the time!
If you thought we were done with the bamboo towel rail hacks, you are in for a pleasant surprise. Showing us just how versatile this piece is @may.jess created an indoor plant feature by drilling hooks into the top rails and adding some hanging planters.
Did you know wedding bouquets can cost more than $200 each? If you’re looking for a budget-friendly wedding flower DIY try this thrifty hack Melissa Scott shared. Using a mix of flower bunches and some jute she created the perfect rustic bouquets that will probably last you forever.
Image via Facebook
34. Floral arrangements
On the topic of weddings, we love this event styling hack by @bridalbouquetsbybrie who put together this stunning floral arrangement for an engagement party using a copper candle holder as a vase.
This neat kitchen organisation hack by @styledbyfliss features the Bamboo drawer neatly stacked into a spice rack and topped with perfectly labelled spice jars. This pantry is speaking to us on an emotional level, but we’re not sure we have the patience to replicate it. If you can’t deal with sorting out the pantry yourself find a cleaner on Airtasker to help out then live in perfectly organised bliss.
Did someone say luxe for less? We hear ya! A can of gold spray paint is all you need for this luxe Navy velvet chair makeover by @nevbetts, creating stylish chairs for your home or office on a budget.
We’ve been seeing basket planters everywhere and we are in love! The Seagrass basket makes a great boho chic indoor planter, perfect to hide those plastic plant pots. And, bonus, the handles make them really easy to move when you’re cleaning or your house plants need to go outside for a little fresh air.
Created by tlcinteriors this hack is rental-friendly and will make effective use of any narrow space. All you need are the Industrial ladder shelves to create stacks of space to layer indoor plants, terrariums, candles, art and homewares, no wall fixtures are required. Check out the post here.
Image via tlcinteriors
39. Marble Look Study Desk
Everyone knows it’s easier to concentrate in a beautiful space, so get your study refreshed with this easy DIY and turn a plain desk into marble with this thrifty renovation by @tiffanyleedonaldson. All you need is any old desk or table and some Marble vinyl adhesive roll. Instant desk goals and a place you’ll actually want to study at? It’s basically a productivity hack to get more done.
PS The vinyl adhesive also comes in black and chalkboard, so get creative!
40. Tropical Kmart Side Table
Love a green theme? Turn your bedroom into a tropical paradise with this clever hack by @ellen_maree89. All you need is a 2-drawer side table and some contact paper from Bunnings. Layer up the style with a trailing indoor plant in a woven basket on top.
41. Embossed Storage Containers
Declutter your pantry with this unique hack by @felicitycook.co.
All you need are some storage containers, embossing powder and clear embossing Markers. That calligraphy might take a little practice, but it beats Dymo labels any day.
This one requires some elbow grease but the results are definitely worth the effort. @carrigleacottage gave the Velvet bench the ultimate makeover by recovering the cushion and sanding down the legs. This is a great way to customise and match any piece of furniture to your decor and can be applied to old chairs, sofas and lounges too. For more complex upholstery, find a specialist with a staple gun on Airtasker.
Keep the little ones busy these school holidays with this fun playtime hack by @thebondipantry. All you need is a cutlery tray and some green jelly for educational play with colourful sensory elements.
Coffee cup hooks are so last season. Keep your tea and coffee essentials organised in a tiny kitchen or office with this neat hack. All you need is a Rectangle Wall Shelf.
Keep your little ones entertained with this clever hack shared by Tegan Kramer, all you need is a Timber Storage Bench and a Underbed storage container for the sand or water. Playtime is at exactly the right height for curious bubs!
Image via Kmart Mums Australia
46. Drink Trolley
Drinks trolleys are great multipurpose occasional pieces that can move from room to room with the essentials. Cocktail set? Favourite magazines? Swan planter? Whatever you need, wherever you need it. This hack by @heditaustralia upgrades the classic black drinks trolley to gold, another great example of how painting can make any piece of furniture match your home decor.
This cool hack was shared by @stylecurator via Cobbitty BakeHouse, hacking the Vertical Wall Shelves into a succulent garden with just a bit of chicken wire and some soil.
The trick here is being patient enough to allow the succulents to establish roots before you hang them up. Lay the garden bed on a flat surface for 4-12 weeks allowing the succulents to settle in the soil before installing on the wall. For more information check out this handy how-to article.
Image via Style Curator
48. Vertical Caddy Garden
In case we haven’t already, we’re going to take one final go at convincing you to start a vertical garden! This amazing hack was created by @kmartstyling_official using a Wire Floor Caddy, some coconut fibre basket liners and plants. This would make an amazing centrepiece for an event table or even a unique Christmas tree for a small apartment.
49. Pimp Your Seagrass Basket
These multifunctional woven baskets are a household staple this season, so why not give yours a little upgrade to suit your interior style? All you need for this easy hack by @interiorsaddict is a basket and a couple of other craft supplies. You can check out the full list of materials and step-by-step tutorial here.
Image via Interiors Addict
50. Celebration Favours
Honestly, we could go on forever but alas we are at our 50th and final hack for this post. How better to leave a lasting impression on your guests, than to send them off with these personalised favours? All you need for this impressive hack by @kmartstyling_official are the Mini tins, some labels printed on metallic paper and a touch of bedazzle using rhinestone stickers.
…but wait, there’s more!
People keep sharing more amazing Kmart hacks with us so consider this a bonus section. Tag us @airtasker on Instagram with yours and we’ll add them in!
51. Matte Black Kmart Chairs
When you’re styling your home with a strict colour palette every little detail counts. @xx.loveyoumorethan.xx painted the legs of the Jaxson Dining Chair black to make them perfect for her super-chic study.
Emma from Play at Home Mummy transformed the Timber Storage Bench into an outdoor play kitchen for the kids, cleverly reinventing a Stainless Steel Dog Bowl as a kitchen sink! And how cute is that hanging rail with the tiny utensils??
These Australian Insta-mavens have all the interior inspo you need, and the expert tips to make it happen, whatever your budget. Add to follow list immediately.
There’s nothing like an interior overhaul to bring a fresh mood to your home, but it can be hard to know where to start to create the vibe you’re after. New lighting fixtures? Maybe a rug? Do you need to paint all the walls, or will a cheeky trip to Kmart do the job? Before you get overwhelmed by detail step back from the products, and start by scrolling the ‘gram, but don’t just look at the pretty pictures.
These Australian Instagram accounts have hot tips, insider tricks and expert advice all throughout their captions, so whether you’re looking for a tonal overhaul to bring beachy vibes to your bedroom, an artistic approach to the study or tips to live stylishly with kids around, you’ll learn out how to actually get it done.
Sisters Kasia and Ania have more than an eye for calming contemporary style – they have all the behind-the-scenes building and renovation tips too! Get inspired by their stone and timber surfaces then follow their practical tips to create the kitchen/bathroom/house of your dreams.
Lucy Feagins and team have been blogging about the most beautiful design in Australia since 2008 and know about every development worth knowing in the design world, covering interiors, architecture, gardens, homewares, textiles and more.
Jo’s style is part Palmy, part Bali, with all of the blissful beach vibes and none of the sand. Follow for liveable coastal style without a lighthouse ornament in sight.
The insta account of the Homelife magazine combines aspirational editorial spaces with accessible products, so you can take inspiration from the stunning styles and actually make it happen in your own home. Winning!
Zoe, a Perth based interior decorator, puts together lustworthy mood boards that show you how to effectively plan a room before you run out to buy furniture. She also curates awesome ‘Save or Splurge’ buys so you can get the look you love, whatever your budget.
Kelly is a mum of five whose ever-evolving house always looks chic, cool and miraculously clean! How does she do it?? Follow to find out (and get heaps of family-friendly interior inspo along the way)!
With a penchant for light-filled spaces, luscious floral installations and quirky architectural details Milenka’s feed shows off some of the coolest interiors around. Follow to get the courage to put in those tiles or that textured wall you know would look knock-out amazing in your home.
Mel describes herself as “just a mum who loves bargains” but we think she’s a family home interiors pro! Just saying’, she’s got all the hot tips on the best Kmart and Target homewares…
Fenton & Fenton remind us all to live life more colourfully, with incredible palettes that combine rich hues, patterned textiles and abstract paintings. Their feed shows dynamic, artistic spaces that will brighten any day.
Inspired to bring your dream home to life? Find a builder, painter or interior decorator on Airtasker.
Want to shake things up in your living room, bedroom or your entire house but on a tight budget? Lucky "IKEA Room Ideas"
Want to shake things up in your living room, bedroom or your entire house but on a tight budget? Lucky for you IKEA is the best place to turn to for cheap furniture and additional accessories to brighten up your home.
If you have a big empty room and you are looking to fill it without hurting your hip pocket, IKEA is a great place to find inspirational room and furniture ideas.
Looking for a bit of inspiration? We’ve put a couple of IKEA room ideas together for you below.
These two bedroom images show the versatility of a simple bed frame with quality interior design. Stylish and sleek, you can explore many more IKEA room and furniture ideas in their latest IKEA catalogue.
A lounge room that you can update along with the changing seasons (and trends) is the way to go as you can see above.
However sometimes life is about breaking the rules, in which case the following bright sofa will bring the instant ‘wow factor’ to your living room. Plus the multi-colour gives you plenty of secondary colours to choose from – just don’t go overboard and end up with a fruit salad.
You could be crammed for space or perhaps you’re a food blogger in your spare time. Either way, this is the perfect solution for you to get work and emails done in the heart and soul of the home – the kitchen.
Storage
Perhaps what IKEA is best known for is its storage solutions, from big cabinets to small boxes or pencil holders, IKEA has it all.
Not forgetting the beautiful outdoors, by using bright fairy lights and some cushions you won’t mind if there’s some cloud about or a lovely sunny day. This is our favourite look below.
Source: Photo by Cecilia Medina on Unsplash
The hero of every bedroom is the bed, so you want it to look and feel cosy and inviting. I’ve chosen this affordable 
