HONESTY BOX

+ Where have you saved money in your home? Angela: Upcycling old pieces of furniture and picking up some big ticket items for a song on Trade Me.

+ Any splurges? I’m not big on splurges unless

I think I can’t live without it, but one thing I will spend money on is good-quality linen. I love my linen sheets and bedspread. I also love my large print in the lounge which I had framed.

+ Best buy? The brand-new vanity and basin from Trade Me ($13). It had a ceramic bowl and a $1 reserve. We had no idea if it would be any good or would need to go straight in the skip, but it was fantastic and our best bargain buy.

+ Any DIY disasters? None.

+ What would you change? I would change the position of the cavity slider in the hall as you can see straight into the laundry, and of course a laundry isn’t the most beautiful of rooms. I should have moved it to the side so you saw a painting instead.

+ Best lesson learned? Things always cost about twice as much and take twice as long as you expect. Patience is key to decorating and renovating.

+ Three style tips…

• Don’t be afraid to try to upcycle things rather than buying new.

• Buy pieces that make you happy and make you smile every time you see them.

• Stay true to your own style so your home is a place you love to live in.