Whilst many refurbishment and development projects have slowed down or come to a complete halt during the last couple of months of lockdown, some property investors have maximised on having more free time and made the most of the rare opportunity to complete projects within their own homes. Here are a few examples of some rather inspired designs. 

Victorian-inspired library

Colleen, of Pendant Financial Services and property investor

“My house was built in the late 1860s so I wanted to design something that was in keeping with the Victorian period, but with a modern twist. The wallpaper, curtains, rugs and chairs are the classic design “The Strawberry Thief” by William Morris. I painted the custom-made shelving and cupboards two-tone for a more modern look, using Dulux Lost Lake and Golden Beet. The lamp is a Tiffany-style shade and the piano is a family heirloom. The books range from the mid-1800s and I am very fussy about what order they go in!”

WC glamour 

Shalona Beaumont, nurse, cake maker and property investor

“I am quirky and wild at heart. The wallpaper is from the Decorating Centre Online and I hung it myself, my friend made bespoke panelling (before Lockdown) to fit the room correctly and tie in with the theme. I painted the waterproof MDF panels with Zinsser AllCoat tinted to Black Blue by Farrow and Ball, also made up by Decorating Centre Online. The tiles are from CDT with a dark grey grout. The mirror belonged to my late Nan and the picture of the old pear soap was my late mum’s. The whole room was decorated around these two pieces. I am now in two-minds about creating a fake-plant ceiling to make it really individual!”

Home-schooling playtime heaven

Chris Garvey of CG Joinery & Building and property investor

“I’ve been wanting to transform the garden for the kids for the last two years but, being so busy completing projects for my clients, I’ve never had the time. I’m so thankful for the time the pandemic has given me. While my projects are on hold, I’ve been able to create something that my kids absolutely love and they spend most of their time playing with. It’s allowed the kids to let their imagination run wild – the castle has been a fortnite tower, princess castle, dungeon and climbing frame. Seeing them so happy whilst being outdoors has made me the happiest dad in the world! My kids are my world and building this for them has been the most satisfying and enjoyable project I’ve ever done.”