Nautical theme stands test of time

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 02/04/2006 (7293 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

DEAR Debbie — I’m looking for inspiration for our young son’s bedroom. He’s very keen on boats, but this could change. We’ve bought a twin bed mattress set, an old dresser I want to fix up, and a desk.

–Lawrence

DEAR Lawrence — A nautical theme is easy to build on and will always stand the test of time. Children grow up quickly and change their minds even faster, so if you would like the look to last, then I suggest you apply a neutral background and use details to make your point. Look for one special piece to create a fitting focal point, such as a headboard for the twin bed. The unusual headboard in this bedroom is actually an old wooden fireplace surround found in a restoration store. I covered the hole where the firebox would be with a Masonite board, then primed and painted it white. The stencils don’t have to be babyish; a boat, some flags and an anchor are universal and fun. You could paint the dresser off-white or blue and add stencils to the drawer fronts. Be creative with the drawer handles, and replace them with rope pulls. Feed the rope through the screw holes and knot at the back to secure.

DEAR Debbie — I am having a problem with my 16-year-old granddaughter’s bedroom. She wants a Genie theme with light colours. She has a solid purple comforter for her bed. Could you help me with some ideas? Thanks.

–Karen

DEAR Karen — Oh, you can have some fun with this room. Ancient tales of The Arabian Nights are enough to fire up the imagination. I’d start with the bed and make a canopy with colourful saris. If there are no bedposts, then you can install curtain hooks or loops over the bed to drape the fabric. The walls should be pastel and shimmery. Look for pearlescent or metallic paint in lilac and why not paint a focal wall (at the head of the bed) bronze or gold? Trim curtains, the comforter and even a lampshade with glittering rows of pearls or beads. Use brightly coloured glass jars and lanterns to hold everything from jewelry and belts to pencils and school supplies. An old-fashioned trunk or wooden box would make a fitting treasure chest.

DEAR Debbie — I am finishing the lower level of our home as a playroom. It’s a fairly large area and I want to cover the concrete floor at a reasonable price. Is there such a thing as carpet tiles that are hardwearing and not too expensive? Thanks for any tips you can offer.

–Erin

DEAR Erin — New and improved carpet tiles have returned to the market and today you’ll see them installed everywhere from airports to malls. They are a great choice for a playroom as they are hardwearing and available in cheerful colours and patterns. You can also mix and match tiles to build your own design, lay down a contrasting border or make stripes or squares. But here’s the best part — when the grape juice or glue gun permanently ruins a section, you can simply lift up the damaged tile and replace it. A source that I have used on my show is www.interfaceflor.com. These tiles are peal and stick, and can be laid directly over concrete.

Debbie Travis’ House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please e-mail your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com.