A dose of Victorian home DIY in London

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Can you tell I like plants?

Wow, time really flies by when you’re having fun. I haven’t blogged since January 2018 – and a lot has happened since then.

I’ve given into the travel bug, exploring places far and wide – to Thailand, Santorini, Rome, Prague, Trier, Barcelona, Amsterdam, New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Minnesota and around the UK. Attended my first Glastonbury (!!). Started a new role at work. Became a cat mom.

Last but not least… we became homeowners! Never in my wildest dreams did I think we would own a flat in London. I’ve always been one for interiors and DIY projects, but now the decor and furniture fanatic in me is jumping for joy.

We’ve moved into a 1890 ground-floor Victorian flat. With its beautiful character and history comes decades-old quirks that need some love. From restoring original floorboards, maximising storage and finding affordable antiques, there’s always a little (or big!) job to add to the list.

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Hello, home!

That’s what I want to share.

As a first-time buyer, this was my introduction into the big world of home improvement and the problem solving that goes with it. I’m not going to lie, it was a little intimidating to begin with.

My first thought was ‘oh my god, what if something goes wrong and I ruin beautiful original features that have been here for 130 years?!’. Well, there’s always that chance… but that’s where a little bit of research, advice and YouTube comes in.

We’ve done quite a bit so far – so stay tuned.

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Grab me the drill, give me the gardening gloves. Let’s turn this house into a home!

More to come.

McK

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Aloe there! Succulents have become my go-to obsession

A little bit of greenery can make all the difference, am I right?

Perusing my local garden centre and nearby florists has become somewhat of my weekly routine.

Photo by McKenna

From cacti to succulents, ferns to flowers, I cannot have enough plants. They have truly changed the vibe in our flat for the better.

Photo by McKenna

I mean, how could a handmade pot with an aloe mohawk NOT make anyone happy? 🙂

Photo by McKenna

In addition to adopting lonely plants in need of a home, maintaining my herb garden has become somewhat of a hobby. There’s just something so satisfying about topping a caprese salad with home-grown basil. I also love making Spanish or Thai inspired dishes, so coriander is obligated to make a hefty appearance.

Photo by McKenna
Photo by McKenna

Home is where the heart is. Or in my case, home is where my plants thrive.

Which plants are a must in your home decor scheme?

McK xxx

Home sweet home: bookshelf styling and cosy throws

Good morning!

I don’t know about you, but I love starting the day in a clean, organised flat. It makes me feel like I’m setting the tone for the rest of the day – 100% necessary when you have a long, stressful to-do list.

I’ve recently moved into a new flat – on a dreamy cobblestone mews in London (how appropriate for the blog?!) – and home decor and styling has been on my mind. The other week I channeled that energy into my bookshelf.

Photo by McKenna

I love a mix between new and old, high street and vintage. Some of my items are decades old – from my wooden elephant from India, a present from my dad, to a handmade vase. I love finding gems in markets and charity shops, like my white Vogue prints and candle holder.

Little hints of gold are my weakness, from my Joy pineapple candle to my fab lantern, gifted from my dear friend Hayley! Flowers and greenery are also a must!

As you’ll see, I have a grand total of 12 books (didn’t bring my collection when I moved from the states!) so I’m completely open to recommendations!

I’ve been in my flat for six months now so I’ve been taking my time finding the perfect additions to our new home.

Photo by McKenna

I love all white everything, with hints of charcoal grey and pastels – mint and light pink are my favourite! I’m also all about FLUFF. The more throws and pillows the better – this tribal pillow was only £5 at Tigre. What a steal! The faux fur throw was a gift that I will be eternally grateful for!

Photo by McKenna
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Photo by McKenna

I’ve discovered that peacock feathers are a cheap and easy way to add a little something extra to any surface – only £2 on Amazon!

What are your favourite go-to home accessories on a budget?

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.”  

– William MorrisÂ