| ROOM RECIPE |
THESE SIMPLE DESIGN INGREDIENTS ARE ALL YOU NEED TO SPRUCE UP A NEGLECTED BOX ROOM. TICK OFF OUR ESSENTIALS AND RE-WORK YOUR SPACE TO CREATE A MORE PRACTICAL SPARE ROOM
1. BUILT-IN BUNK
Whether it’s to be used as a spare bedroom, home office or dressing room, factoring a bed into your box room set-up is a must that will make the space more flexible. Floor space is likely to be at a premium, so a double bed is out, but a compact single tucked against one wall will provide sleep space while still leaving plenty of room to manoeuvre. Opting for a neat bunk makes efficient use of floor and wall space and allows extra underand over-bed storage to be built in.
IH LOVES…
n Ikea for modular storage options that are easy to adapt to your needs B&Q for DIY materials, tools and paint
n YouTube for plenty of ‘how to’ guides
2. MIX-AND-MATCH BEDDING
Layering up a bunk with bolsters and cushions will create more of a daybed vibe that makes the sleep space more usable during daytime hours. Stack pillows both ends and lined along the wall so the bed is super-comfy for daytime lounging. Go for smart stripes and geometrics when it comes to cushions and bedding – low-key patterns are easy on the eye and more easily mixed and matched.
IH LOVES…
n John Lewis for colourful duvets, blankets and throws
n Next for brilliant easycare bedding
n George Home for cheap and cheerful cushions
3. CALM COLOUR
Neutrals are always a safe bet in any multi-functional space, providing a calm backdrop that complements most other colours and patterns. They will also work with pretty much any style of furniture that goes into the room. Choosing soft, muted shades rather than overly-bright or dark colours will make a small box room feel more spacious but cosy and warm too.
IH LOVES…
n Crown’s washable Easyclean paint range
n Dulux for budget-friendly makeovers
n Little Greene for its choice of colours
4. SLIMLINE TABLE
A neat console-style table can work as a desk if it's a WFH space or as a dressing table when called into action as a guest bedroom. Choose a slimline style that can be slotted underneath a window or into an alcove without taking up too much space – then just add a chair on castors that can be tucked away underneath.
IH LOVES…
