Presenter and singer Kimberley Walsh has always had an interest in DIY and interior decor. ‘My mum was a single mum, and we didn’t have a lot of money. So, when it came to the house my mum did everything herself,' she explains. ‘I would help my mum paint and tile bathrooms. From that point on, it was quite obvious that I enjoyed it.’
Over the years her 'obsession' for interiors grew, 'I carried it into my teens and even when I was in the band [Girls Aloud] during my time off I would decorate. I just love the before and after transformation.’
Kimberley regularly gives the public glimpses into her beautiful Victorian family home on Instagram. 'We've got really high ceilings, arches and nice detailed ceilings,' she says. Her home also features incredible statement pieces from her dining room's oversized art deco brass wall lights and her 'unique' bathroom tub.
Here are her top tips for transforming your home...
DECIDE ON YOUR 'VIBE'
Firstly you need to decide whether you want to create a light, airy, calm space or a cosy dark space. A lot comes from just deciding the wall colour and usually everything after that comes easily. My dining room was really light and cream but now I've painted it dark navy with some hints of dusky pink. To keep some bright elements, add in a coloured accent - that helps to give the room the best of both.
LOOK TO SOCIAL MEDIA FOR INSPIRATION
As soon as I know what vibe I'm going for in a room, I start looking online from Pinterest to Instagram and find different statement pieces. For my bathroom, I saw the tiles I have now on a home account. If you follow lots of home accounts you constantly get inspiration without even realising it - there could be one picture that sparks an idea for a whole room.
PLAY WITH YOUR LAYOUT
I have rearranged every room in my house many times. When you do move things around it's interesting how doing that can completely change a room. Especially if you're short of space, it's really worth exhausting all possibilities. Storage is very important, I try and keep everything concealed because I don't want everything out. I don't like too much clutter.
PERFECT YOUR LIGHTING
If you get that wrong, it can really ruin a space. I've spent a lot of time taking lights out. In new modern houses especially, there are a lot of spotlights - but too much light can sometimes be unbearable.
THINK ABOUT THE PRACTICALITIES OF FAMILY LIFE
There's a lot of damage limitation and risk assessments to keep in mind when buying items if you have kids. You've got to be realistic for a few years when they are young. Our upstairs living room is very bright but also features rustic furniture. So, if my toddler decides to smash a toy hammer into the coffee table - It just adds a bit of charm to it.
INVEST IN STATEMENT PIECES
These pieces are so important to giving your room character and if you get them right they can stay with you for years. They bring a home to life.
Kimberley is partnering with Wickes. For more info, visit wickes.co.uk