How to Blend Contemporary Elements with Classic CharacterHome Makeover Slip-Ups You'll Want to Avoid — and Prevent Them 96

A few years ago, I stood in the passage and realized I couldn't stand it. Not in a gut-the-whole-house kind of way. More like when you resent something gradually. Like cheap coffee, or a shirt that never quite fits.

It was barely lit, and there was this weird patch where the paint was bubbling like old glue. Just a wall. But somehow it felt like it was part of the problem. Of what? No idea. Everything, maybe.

I didn't set out to remodel. I planned to tidy up a bit. Maybe change the bulb. Then I nudged some old panelling, and underneath… well. Bold paisley. Looked like it was straight out of the ‘70s. The kind of wallpaper that makes you frown.

And that's how it begins. You pull one thread, and the house sighs like it was ready.

Next thing I knew, I was learning things I'd never cared about. Architrave. I developed strong opinions for undercoat brands. I watched videos like it was a sport. Still don't know why one caulking gun's $12 and another's $48, but I'll fight you over which is better.

But this wasn't just about fixing things. It was about finally saying something didn't fit, and that I was done adjusting. I used to hop over a creaky floorboard by the bathroom even after I fixed it. Muscle memory is stubborn like that.

Some days went well. Some didn't. I once installed a power point upside down and didn't notice for three Sundays in a row. Only realized it when my sister flipped it and asked why “off” turned the light *on*.

But that's how it goes. You laugh, and then suddenly the space feels… yours. Not perfect. Not staged. But not borrowed anymore. That wall? Still narrow. And the paint line by the stairs? Wobbly. But it's mine now.

It's not about style blogs. It's about saying no to stuff here that makes you sigh at 7am. If you mess up, just patch it. That's what I do. Or at least that's what I tell guests.