I was thinking the other day about the word “makeover.” Thanks to all the TV and cable shows, magazine articles, hype and drama surrounding the simple act of a home “makeover,” the concept has been overplayed, and it’s become a bit intimidating.
I appreciate all the shows and stories about makeovers. I usually learn some new technique or see a combination I wouldn’t have thought of myself. And I love the concept that you can start all over and, during the process, reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. I’d like to remind people, however, that anyone — even without a camera crew or screaming audience — can rebuild, reinvest and reinvent their space. And remember: A makeover doesn’t necessarily mean a total overhaul. Little fixes can produce a similar and wonderful effect.
Last night I had dinner with an editor who told me about a new section she was going to introduce called “instant update.” Now I like that. An “update” takes out some of the overwhelming feeling you get when you hear the word “makeover.” Instant update. There’s a concept I could get behind. A quick, easy and preferably inexpensive ways to jazz up a room.
The editor suggested rearranging things on a bookshelf or changing out a rug. For me, the best and most dramatic way to update a room is with the use of paint — whether you paint one wall, a ceiling or a floor.
So let’s get to updating.
Supplies
– 3 photo mats in different sizes
– Semigloss latex paint in contrasting shades
– Polyurethane
Tools
– Paintbrushes
– Paint roller
– Paint tray
Getting started
1. Starting in the corner of the room, take a mat and place it 4 inches away from the wall.
2. Using the mat as a stencil paint a square onto the floor.
3. Repeat the process, alternating the size and color of the squares along the edges of all four walls in the room, creating a border for your floor.
4. When alternating the squares, overlap the edges; this will make a collage-like pattern.
5. Let dry and apply a coat of polyurethane
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Katie Brown is the host of the “Katie Brown Workshop” and the author of several books. Her show is currently on hiatus and will return to WTTW-Ch. 11 in the spring. Send e-mails to home&garden@tribune.com.
