‘It’s amazing how paint can transform a room!’

Rather than rip out the fitted wardrobes, Orima Kamalu and Joel Smith got busy with the paintbrushes to give their bedroom an upgrade on a budget

- Orima Kamalu and Joel Smith

As first-time homeowners, Orima Kamalu and Joel Smith were pleased to find a property that didn’t need any extensive building work. ‘The house was in pretty good condition,’ says Orima. ‘The walls were mostly white, but the previous owner was clearly a big fan of burgundy, which isn’t my favourite colour.’

The couple put most of their budget into getting the ground floor up to scratch, which included fitting a new kitchen. So, despite having next-to-no DIY experience, they knew they would have to update their bedroom themselves to keep costs down.

My style tips

STYLE WITH SYMMETRY. For an easy way to get a designer look, find matching bedside tables, lamps and cushions, and display them symmetrically.

UPDATE WITH PAINT. Even glossy cabinets can be painted - you just need to find the right multi-surface paint and follow the instructions.

ADD A MURAL HEADBOARD.

To elevate your existing bed - or draw attention to an investment piece, like my bed's brass frame - add a mural wallpaper behind it to create a focal point without spending a lot.

STEP INSIDE....

WHO LIVES HERE?

I'm Orima Kamalu, 33, and I live here with my husband, Joel Smith, 36. We're both doctors, and we moved into our home, a converted Victorian stable in Bristol, in January 2021. We share our decorating journey @no1.thecourt.

WHAT WAS UPDATED?