Bedroom makeovers on a budget

Window treatments are easier than people think. A swag at the top of the window is cheap (depending on your fabric choice) and not too dramatic. It will really add a feminine touch to the room. You can do this with plant or bicycle hooks suspended from the ceiling. Or opt for just a blind and an inexpensive garland or floral accent at the top of the window. We also love the look of a simple rod with funky finials and ready-made unlined drapes. Ikea, Rosebys and John Lewis carry a large selection of all of these items.

You can create a bedside table with just two round pieces of plywood (one smaller than the other) and a waste paper bin. The larger piece should be used as the tabletop and the smaller piece should fit the opening of the bin. Glue the smaller piece of plywood to the bottom of the slightly larger piece. Then cover it with a ready-made tablecloth. Or cover with a neutral-coloured tablecloth and drape organza fabric (in a contrasting colour) over it. Bear in mind that you can use the bin for storage.