V I CTO R I A N F L AT
SECOND BEDROOM Once the doorway had been moved to create space for a double bed, recessed shelving was fitted in the area behind the bed
main bathroom could only be accessed through the second bedroom, and the tiny shower room next to the main bedroom was inadequate. By stealing some space from the hallway, the shower room has been turned into a Jack and Jill bathroom with access from both the hallway and main bedroom. To make the reconfigured layout work, a new entrance with double doors was created for the main bedroom and the 1970s melamine cupboards were replaced with neat built-in wardrobes, one of which hides the boiler. Another key change was blocking off the doorway into the second bedroom and creating a new entrance where an old cupboard used to be. ‘This meant it could now fit a double bed with recessed shelving behind,’ says Elizabeth. ‘As space was tight for storage in the bedroom, we turned part of the ensuite into a dressing area with fitted wardrobes. I wanted it to be a nice glam space for guests rather than just a forgotten box room at the back of the flat.’ After four months of hard work, Elizabeth is delighted with her home. ‘I’d say it’s modern but comfortable with a few glamorous touches such as the silk headboards, and lots of different textures, rather than colours, to add interest,’ she says. ‘Cathy gave me the confidence to be a little bolder and made suggestions for changing the layout that I wouldn’t have thought of, but the finished space really reflects my personality.’ HB O For info on Cathy, visit cathydeaninteriordesign.com
STYLISH STORAGE Ugly pipework has been hidden by an Ikea Billy bookcase that’s been adapted by Cathy with Harlequin fabric behind the glazed doors
ENSUITE BATHROOM Elizabeth bought the fittings, including a bath from Bathstore and shower from Showermania, for less than £1,000 at endof-range clearance sales
FOR STORE DETAILS SEE WHERE TO BUY PAGE
House Beautiful JULY 2016 59