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Stylish solutions to all your design dilemmas
designer tip No need to buy a new big-ticket item – fresh cushions will instantly update a leather sofa
Q Our master bedroom has an adjoining bedroom that we want to make into either a dressing room that could double as a nursery or a walk-in robe and ensuite. Which of these will give us the best return on investment? Jarrod, via Facebook The answer to this will depend on several factors. For example, how large is the adjoining bedroom, and how far is the current bathroom from the master bedroom? As a general rule, though, bedrooms add a little more financial value than bathrooms. Think as early as possible about the long-term spatial needs of your growing family. For instance, if the nursery isn’t large enough to eventually turn into a kid’s bedroom, then it may not be worth it. We tend to design bedrooms no less than 3 metres by 3 metres, and often much larger. Also, as the kids mature, the need for any extra bathrooms will become increasingly important as young families tend to need more privacy as they grow. With a long-term plan, bathrooms are best included into any master plan. One of the keys to designing for families is keeping flexibility in mind. Spaces that can be easily modified are good; for instance, rooms with simple stud walls, while bathrooms can be very costly to move due to the plumbing.
Q My splashback tiles are dated and I’m thinking of painting over them. What’s involved and how hard is it? Hannah, via Instagram “We recommend using special tile paint, which is designed to go over glass, porcelain or ceramic surfaces,” says David Woodford, paint buyer at Bunnings (bunnings.com.au). “Preparation is key, so give your tiles a good clean, then lightly sand them – this will score the surface glaze a little to help the paint bond to the tiles. Next, use masking tape on the edges, using long runs of tape for a straighter edge. Apply an even coat of tile and laminate primer using a paintbrush to cut in and a small roller. Once that’s dry, it’s time to paint. Give the tile paint a good stir to ensure the ingredients are well mixed, then apply two coats of paint.”
Q Cushions are my weakness but it’s getting hard to fifind room to sit on my sofa. Are there any rules for mixing colour and pattern that I can use to edit them down to a group that looks good together? Samantha, via Facebook “We get it – cushions are the easiest way to refresh your space,” says Jodi Hall, national field visual manager at West Elm (westelm.com.au). “Instead of adding to your pile, try simply switching over to new covers so you can indulge your love for newness without compromising on comfort and space on your sofa. Edit them down to a single palette at a time – say a variety of sea greens in various textures and patterns. Or, if you’re inclined to mix multi-coloured and patterned cushions, try to stick with either all florals or all ikats in the same basic colour combinations to avoid it looking too busy. A mix of shapes, such as lumbar and square cushions in varied sizes, brings dimension and interest, too.”
Q We need to replace our carpets. Is pure wool worth the price? Carrie, via email “Wool gives a plush feeling underfoot if chosen in a cut pile, and can provide a nice textured option if you select a loop pile,” says Darren Palmer, ambassador for Carpet Court (carpetcourt.com.au). “It’s a natural fibre that is resistant to moisture and mould, so it wears well and is long lasting. Overall it’s a wonderful choice, but consider your room and circumstances. Wool is less stain-resistant than other options and, in areas with lots of sun exposure, a solutiondyed nylon carpet might be better as wool is prone to fading.”