My own before & after of the master bedroom in our former house
I don’t know about you folks, but I am definitely a sucker for some good “before & afters.”
As far as I’m concerned, it’s one of the best ways to get great inspiration. Sure, looking at decor magazines is fun, but when you see that someone can turn something completely awful into something completely wonderful, it gives a girl hope that she can do it herself, y’know?
Of course, so much of it depends on what it is you want to make over & of course, your budget. But sometimes you just need a good before & after to realize that maybe your kitchen needs to pop a little more or that your mudroom could use a smidge more organization. So where do I go for my inspiration?
I was rather excited to stumble upon a whole blog dedicated to before & afters. Meet Better After – a place where readers submit all kinds of fantastic remodels, renovations, & simple DIY makeovers. I love this simple project that turns a kitschy taco holder into a retro organizer. And this teeny closet turned groovy book nook shows just that with a little imagination, wasted space can become not only functional, but also fabtastic.
Other great sources for before & after inspiration are Design Sponge (how much do I love that creative lock/knob coat hook setup?) and Apartment Therapy (I adore kitchen rennos – especially ones that are low-budget and primarily DIY) . But perhaps my favorite of all is Young House Love. This ingenious couple have turned DIY into an art form and are widely known for their attention to detail and thorough step-by-step instructions (including pictures!) for how they remake a space. They did an amazing job of turning their first house into a praiseworthy home (it’s amazing how paint can dress up brick & paneling) & have upped the bar with their newest home adventure (I am totally dreaming of a “grellow” kitchen now).
So, are you itching to pick up a hammer, or maybe drag out the drop cloths & get painting? If you do, be sure to take some before & after pictures!
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