HOME MAKER
Once married, Emma Denslow lovingly transformed her husband Simons shabby semi into a cosy and comfortable abode.
Its a bachelor pad desperately in need of a makeover, was Emma Denslows verdict when she moved into her husbands Worcestershire home more than a decade ago. Before Simon bought the semi, it had been let out," Emma continues, so hed undertaken some renovation work in order to bring the place up to scratch."
Although the 19th - century property had been rewired, and a new shower room and en - suite bathroom installed. Emma was less than impressed by Simons choice of decor. He had painted throughout in a bold palette of colours, which Emma found overpowering, not to mention a little dated. I was really keen for the interior to be in keeping with the age of the building, but I also wanted to make the house lighter and brighter," she explains. So I took
inspiration from Farrow & Balls range of muted shades, and began redecorating the house room by room - I was amazed at just how much of a difference you can make by simply changing the colour schemes.
The biggest transformation was undoubtedly in the dining room. It had dark blue walls and because the area is east facing, it felt particularly cold." says Emma. Painting the walls in an off - white shade brought the room alive. But not all of her decorating decisions proved as successful. The Victorian floor tiles in the hall include a mustard design, so I decided to paint the walls a similar tone. Emma explains. Unfortunately, it made the hall rather gloomy - I soon changed it to another neutral that was easier on the eye."
Once the main living areas had been revamped. Emma turned her attention to the kitchen. New Shaker - style units were installed and the original bakers oven replaced with a range cooker. Next, she restored the original cast - iron tub in the bathroom. It was badly stained so we managed to spruce it up with a bath - refurbishment pack on the inside and a new coat of paint on the outside. says Emma. Im passionate about recyclingand never throw things away unless I have to."
Simon had inherited much of his furniture, so Emma incorporated many of these pieces into her vision of a classical look updated for the modern era I he upstairs landing is a line example of her approach. The light on the wall was once a gas lamp so we complemented it with some antiques to create a period mood. she says. Emma has no doubt about her favourite decorating style, however. I love shabby chic, in particular faded fabrics, such as those made by Cabbages & Roses, she enthuses.
Having weaved her magic on the semi, Emma can now relax and enjoy her beautiful home. Were delighted with the result. she says. The house still has the feel of a country gentlemans residence, but weve brought the place firmly into the 2lst century.
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The interior