Deirdre O Meara 
A young woman has turned heads in the DIY community by transforming her “grotty” garden into a European-inspired haven with a £22 purchase from IKEA. Sarah Gillis, a self-proclaimed content creator who is “surviving her late 20s” while living alone, moved into a new flat last month and was initially concerned about the small outdoor space that came with it. The “before” photos show peeling white paint on the walls, a rundown wooden floor, and algae growing through the cracks of the concrete.
Undeterred, Sarah took on the challenge of renovating the space herself, using IKEA’s Runnen outdoor flooring decking to modernize the floor and hide the algae-tinged concrete. The decking is weather-resistant and easy to care for, made of plastic that can be cut to fit around corners or poles. Sarah completed the entire project solo, painting the garden door blue and refreshing the white brick walls surrounding the concrete yard.
To add a touch of homeliness and ambiance, Sarah also fixed a plant pot rack on the wall, hung outdoor lights, big potted plants, and a mirror. She has been sharing DIY and renovation tips on her TikTok, emphasizing the finer details that make a space feel cozy and inviting. The finished product has been dubbed perfect for Sunday morning sitting, with viewers gushing about the transformation and envisioning themselves enjoying a cup of coffee in the revamped space.
Sarah’s project is a testament to the power of DIY and creativity, proving that even the smallest and most neglected spaces can be transformed into something beautiful and inviting. Her use of affordable and accessible materials from IKEA is also a reminder that home improvement doesn’t have to break the bank.
As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have found solace in home improvement and DIY projects. With more time spent indoors, the desire to create a comfortable and inviting living space has become a priority for many. Sarah’s project is a shining example of how a little creativity and effort can go a long way in transforming a space and improving one’s quality of life.
In addition to the aesthetic benefits, home improvement projects can also add value to a property. With the housing market experiencing a surge in demand, many homeowners are looking to make renovations and improvements to their properties to increase their value and appeal to potential buyers. Sarah’s project is a reminder that even small improvements can have a big impact on a property’s value and desirability.
Overall, Sarah’s garden renovation project is an inspiring example of the power of DIY and creativity in transforming a space. Her use of affordable materials and emphasis on the finer details is a reminder that even the smallest and most neglected spaces can be turned into something beautiful and inviting. As the world continues to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, home improvement projects like Sarah’s offer a source of comfort, creativity, and inspiration.
