New technology helps transform boring cabinet
DEAR DEBBIE: I am way over budget on my renovations and can only afford the plainest of storage solutions for a room with no closet. How can I make a boxy, melamine cabinet look great? Thanks.
— Bernadette DEAR BERNADETTE: During a recent renovation I was faced with a similar challenge. I desperately needed to add storage to an upstairs sitting area. This was originally an ancient farmhouse, and still has its gorgeous old brick walls and weathered beams. The cabinet I bought was like yours, simply a large white box. It took care of the storage, but was out of place sitting in its age-old surroundings.
I knew about the recent technology that allowed images of your choice to be transferred onto wallpaper. There are now plenty of companies who will do this for you. Choose one of their images or have them blow up a photograph that you have, as long as it is high resolution. But now, even better, these images are being transferred onto coated canvas. This progression offers a much stronger and more practical product for you to incorporate into your decorating. It is the perfect solution for furniture, as it is hardwearing and easy to clean. It’s also great for bathrooms or other humid areas.
The Renaissance image that I chose not only transformed the cabinet into a work of art, but uplifts the feeling of the hallway space. It is stunning. You can apply the canvas yourself with wallpaper glue, and this solution won’t break the bank.
DEAR DEBBIE: I want to create a warm, friendly space for my five grandchildren, ages 2 to 6, in my basement family room. My floors are laminate, so I’d like area rugs for warmth. There is a TV on one wall, two recliners and a small sectional. Can you give me some tips? I love your gift of creating a beautiful space.
— Delores
DEAR DELORES: Since this is a basement room, you will need to invest in some large area rugs. Not only for warmth, rugs with a slip-free backing are safest under little feet (and big feet, too.) You’ll find kid-friendly carpets in bright colors and designs. Ones with shag or loopy yarns feel soft and tactile on bare feet and hands. One or two small, round tables that sit low to the ground are great for play areas such as artwork, puzzles or a runway for cars and trucks. I’m not a fan of walls that are too busy in a child’s space. But one or two favorite colors — kids like orange, blue and purple — will create a happy atmosphere. Have storage shelves and baskets for toys and books so that they can keep their room tidy. I know you will enjoy this special time with your grandchildren.
DEAR DEBBIE: I recently bought a house with walls and colors that are OK but need some texture. I am planning on doing a textured paint finish, but my local home store says that they are no longer able to source glaze. Do you know where I can find it?
— Pieta DEAR PIETA: Glazing liquid, or glaze, is readily available in good paint stores, and you can find it online. It comes as a clear liquid, and also premixed with paint to form a colored glaze. You may be interested in the newest in wallpaper … looks exactly like a textured paint finish, but easier to apply. Watch for my column on how to achieve the look of painted finishes without the paint next month.