Before & After: Loft Wall Makeover

I’m so freak’n excited to share this loft wall makeover with you. It’s something that’s been on my mind since I moved into my loft…..8+ years ago. Yeah, take forever much?! I do have excuses though! Every time I would save money for redecorating, something big would happen that would take priority. One time I needed to get roofing contractors austin to repair the roof because it was leaking, another time I needed to replace some appliances when they were on their last legs, the list goes on. The first thing I did when I moved into my loft was get the whole thing painted a neutral colour (this creamy white is actually my biggest design regret, but that’s another story). Because painting a big loft with 13′ ceiling can get prettyyyyyyy pricy I decided to just leave the shelves with the original dark colour paint as more of an accent wall. The truth is I’ve hated the shelves ever since. It’s pretty much the last main part of my loft that I’ve never loved and holds me back from sharing photos of..until now. This loft wall makeover is exactly what I envisioned and now I think it’s my favourite part of my space. It went from a cluttered, dust collecting, dark wall of randomness to a bright, bohemian, plant-filled corner to chill out in. Take a look at the before and after transformation.

What a difference some paint and purging does right?! The most impactful elements of this makeover was removing the middle shelving – let’s be honest, I don’t have that many books (and it’s not because I don’t love to read but I love fiction and mostly borrow, trade or buy & return used) and painting out the background to the same cream as the rest of the loft. I know some people are probably shuttering at the thought of removing a built-in but I’m much happier with the wall space to decorate. In this case it’s a perfect area to showcase some of my handmade macrame plant hangers and big mirror that not only opens it up but also reflects the colourful string art on the opposite wall.

Of course my favourite part of the whole makeover is the hammock. I mean duh.

I’m not sure where the idea came from but one day I decided I really wanted a hammock inside my place. Directly in front of the window wouldn’t work so I came up with this. I don’t mind that it covers the fireplace because I think it creates an interesting layered look and it’s easy to remove from the wall so it can just come down in the winter for a more seasonal look….or not. It’s my place so I can do whatever my little heart desires. And yes, it’s as comfortable as it looks.

The hanging planters are a mix of patterns, colours, lengths and sizes. I know it’s annoying that I can’t explain to you how to mix and match successfully – I kinda just see stuff and connect the dots in my head visually. These plant hangers are actually quite easy to make, if you attended my macrame plant hanger workshop last year you know what I’m sayin’. Sure macrame is really trendy right now but I’ve always loved the Boho look so I think they’ll be sticking around for awhile. Plus if I ever get tired of them I can just take them down and have a brand new blank canvas to work with. MUCH more flexible (and less dusting) than a whole bunch of clunky shelves.

Speaking of the shelves….there’s still a tonne of them as you can see so there’s lots of room for my wimpy book collection and more importantly for lots of styling and even a bit of practical storage (hey, I need to put my crap somewhere!). I just used what I already had and did some editing. It was important to me to include photos because not only are they an insight to who lives there but they’re great conversation starters and I feel like so few people display photos these days. I’ve done a lot of traveling and unless you pull out a photo album (old school!) you would have no idea when you visit. I’m sure these shelves will change a million times in the next few months but that’s part of the fun, right?

The other significant element I added was way more plants. There’s just something about plants that make a space automatically feel more warm, welcoming and lived in. Plus, BONUS! they add colour and help filter the air not to mention just look great. My plant record so far is hit or miss. I have some plants that’ve been around forever and others that don’t even see their first birthday. Fingers crossed that I can keep this whole bunch alive and kicking for years to come. Both my Mom and Grandma have green thumbs so hopefully there’s a little green running in my blood as well.

Fun fact! That hanging plant on the mantle is from my Mom and she’s had it for 22 years!? No pressure or anything. Another great thing about plants? It’s the perfect reason to buy some adorable planters. Too many times I see gorgeous plants in the most hideous planters, usually something plastic that they came in. Common, Mother Nature can’t do all the work. Help a girl out and make those plants shine with stylish planters.

So that it, the big loft wall makeover. Sometimes I really do pinch myself when I’m sitting in the hammock. I’m the luckiest person in the world to be able to live in such a great space right in the middle of a great city. I can’t wait to kick back and read a book or maybe take a little nap in this new corner.

If you’re digging this look and want to try it at home, here’s a little help. Just add some vintage or thrifted treasures for that unique and eclectic look and you’ll have your very own cozy and cool Boho nook to hang out in. Looking to paint a room in your house, you could bring in the professionals like B&B Painting in Ottawa.

SHOP THE LOOK: 1. DIY Macrame Planter, or buy here / 2. Round Mirror / 3. Brazilian Style Hammock / 4. Round Hanging Planter / 5. Gold Planter Stand / 6. Glass Vase / 7. Teal Planter / 8. Vintage Swan Planter / 9. Rattan Plant Stand / 10. Pink Moroccan Pouf / 11. Large Yellow Plant Stand

If you’re new to the blog or just feel like going for a stroll down loft memory lane, then you can check out my living room makeover, kitchen makeover, bedroom makeover, dining area stories for some colourful inspiration. Oh and that time I took down the cage I was sleeping in.