From dated to dreamy with Dinette

“Following many DIY projects in my own home, someone approached me and asked for my help with their home renovation project. They wanted to revamp their two guest rooms, which share a bathroom. As we began painting, I also suggested that their kitchen — originally fitted with dark cabinets — could be brightened up with a lighter paint to instantly refresh the space, which we then did.”
Dinette Venter



In last year’s June/July issue we saw how beautifully Dinette had revamped a sideboard, as well as reupholstered some chairs. But this time, she successfully assisted a client in redoing a few rooms.


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After

What was your overall vision or concept for the house, and how does one decide on a theme for a full home makeover?
I always try to see how much of the existing space can be refreshed in the most affordable way.

For example, simply adding a barn door saves a lot of space and instantly updates the look. A fresh coat of paint can also work absolute WONDERS!

Dark cupboards, carpets and old-fashioned light fittings can make a room look very dated, so changing these was definitely my first priority. I also wanted to improve the flow between the two bedrooms and the bathroom by using the same flooring throughout — in this case, a lovely, durable laminated floor that can handle moisture in the bathroom.


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After

Which parts of the project were you involved in, and what did you restore or repurpose yourself?
I managed the entire project, working with trusted contractors, including those who did the demolition and rebuilding of the bathroom, as well as a tiler, plumber, carpenter and painter.

I put the full picture together by offering ideas upfront and sourcing available items. My suggestions and prices were then compiled in a visual presentation.

You gave the “mustard-coloured” bathroom a modern monochrome makeover in black and white. If HouseFinder readers want to do a cost-effective bathroom renovation, what is your advice?
As soon as you replace those colourful baths and basins from the 1970s, you’ve already won a whole new look! Combine that with stylish new trendy tiles and, in this case, black fixtures like showerheads, taps and lights — this ensures a winning combination.
Replacing old steel window frames with aluminium also instantly modernises any room. I think it’s important to define your own style and taste.


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After

There are so many ideas on Pinterest to guide you and doing the rounds to see what Windhoek retailers have on offer, is your first step. If you can’t find a vanity that perfectly fits your space, it’s definitely worth supporting a local carpenter. An old cabinet, for example, can be renewed by replacing the top to accommodate a beautiful new basin.