Hello my lovelies. This post is coming to you from South Africa, where I’m currently enjoying some cooler weather. The kids and I have escaped the Dubai heat for the (very long) summer school holidays. The last few weeks of the term felt like a constant rush so I am looking forward to some ‘quiet time’ in the African bush.
Today I thought I’d share some images from a project I have been working on at an Arabian Ranches home. The project wasn’t a complete makeover, but rather a refresh and update of the open plan dining room and lounge area. This before and after feature is a great example of how you can make a big change without having to replace everything in the room.
All the dining room really needed was a bit of rearranging. The two major changes were the removal of the extra fridge, which was an eyesore in this space and had to go, and the gallery wall of family pictures, which was so gorgeous, but couldn’t be appreciated in this cluttered area, so it was relocated to a large blank wall in the lounge area. The rest of the change was a simple case of restyling. The only things that are new to this space are the bevelled mirror, the antlers and some greenery.

In the living room we added some new artwork, purchased online and beautifully framed by Muse Artz, the classic Stockholm rug by Ikea, scatter cushions with a chic yet neutral palette from H&M Home and a few bits and pieces to restyle the coffee table.

Isn’t it amazing what you can achieve with a few changes here and there? I hope it leave you feeling inspired.
17 Comments
Can I ask about the lovely white block side table next to the winged chair, where could I find one here in Dubai ?
I’ve found the one featured you purchased it from West Elm however on another makeover you feature some wooden barrel shaped side tables which you had painted white. Where they Indian or Indonesian? Again where in Dubai could I find them as ceramic in my house would so easily get broken thanks
Hi Cheryl, the white tables you are referring to are called Bamileke stools. Mine are from South Africa and unfortunately I’ve not been able to find them locally. It may be worth asking at Tribe Dubai. Regards, Kath
Hi Kathryn
This is EXACTLY what I need in my home – I have all the key pieces of furniture however they need to be ‘styled’ and I don’t have that designers eye! Roughly how much do you charge for this?
Omg that is what my living room needs…de cluttering. I am honestly inspired and I keep coming back to look at these pics. If I won your ikea giveaway I would definitely buy this classic rug!
SO glad to hear that you find inspiration here. X
I love the new touches you added…it always amazes me what you can do with a fresh set of eyes …great job Kathryn!
That’s so nice of you to say. Thanks so much x
I was so sure that I commented on theses changes but I cannot find them. You make it look so easy! The two rooms now look absolutely amazing. You are just too damn good. Well done on yet another amazing job! x
Thanks so much for the kind words, always. I think you may I have posted your last comment on my Facebook page because I also remember seeing it. x
Really love Kathryn this where are the Cusions and rug from? X
Hi Laura,
The cushions were from H&M Home and the rug is an Ikea classic.
Kath x
I love how simple and yet so effective these changes are…..beautiful home. Also LOVE the antlers…where are they from? Xx
Hi Jessica, thanks for your comment. The antlers on the wall are from West Elm, and the loose ones on the dresser are from Typo.
Love Typo! Thank you. Xx
Wow – this is absolutely STUNNING! So chic and serene. LOVE IT!
Thanks, Nicky x