Some spaces simply need a lick of fresh paint, others need a complete re-vamp. But these five remarkable transformations prove that with the right touch, even the most tired interiors can be entirely revitalised.
If you’re thinking of renovating, you’ll find all the inspiration you need in the ‘Best Before and After’ category of the UFurnish.com Home Awards, in partnership with Metro.
This year’s finalists – sponsored by Rightmove – have transformed once-forgotten spaces into sanctuaries of style, revived with character and an inspired creative eye.
See how these spaces were transformed and don’t forget to check back in for the winners announcement in October!
Daniel Bland
The lounge in Daniel Bland’s Victorian home was feeling lack-lustre before he was able to reinvent the space into an image of antique elegance.
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Intent on highlighting the original architectural features, Daniel chose dark paints and paneling that preserved the room’s period authenticity while adding a modern, refined touch. Every piece of furniture and décor was selected and placed with masterful precision.
Entering this transformation with a clear artistic vision and determination to unlock the space’s full potential, Daniel has actualised timeless character and sophisticated charm into his living space.
Kirstie Waterston
Determined to give the ‘awkward extension’ of her home a real meaning, Kirstie stripped the space back to its bare brick before transforming it into a thoughtfully designed playroom for her two children.
She took on the panelling and painting herself, then carefully styled the room to ensure it could evolve as her children grow, knowing its role will naturally shift over time. Bursting with colour and charm, the space features a cosy gold velvet tee-pee set atop a lively, harlequin-patterned rug.
Now full of life, this transitional space in the Waterston home has found an identity, balancing vibrant energy with a refined sense of purpose.
Leekim Stewart
This transformation doesn’t just upgrade the aesthetic of Leekim Stewart’s bedroom window, it significantly enhances the room’s functionality, comfort, and sense of personality.
What was once a plain and underutilised wall has been reimagined into a warm, characterful focal point that perfectly balances form and function. Keeping the natural light as the star of the show, the installation of the seating and shelving units creates the ultimate pink reading nook.
With the intention of seamlessly blending practicality with personality, Leekim has delivered a transformation that feels both curated and effortless.
Nicki Castle
Nicki and her husband put all the elbow grease they had into transforming this once-tired horse lorry into a stylish, upscale glamping retreat.
What was previously a purely practical vehicle has been thoughtfully redesigned into a cosy and contemporary getaway on wheels, without sacrificing comfort or charm.
Now fully equipped to sleep four, the space includes a cleverly designed kitchen with all the essentials, as well as a fully functioning shower. The Castle family have truly transformed this trailer into the ultimate family weekend escape.
Sarah Ellis
Having lived through the restoration of her 19th century manor house, Sarah Ellis approached revamping her interiors with a deep respect for the building’s history. Each space is designed to celebrate the original architectural features whilst embracing the comfort of modern living.
Period details, ornate ceiling mouldings and the original wall panelling are elegantly offset by modern additions, honouring the past without compromising on contemporary function or style.
From colour palette to materials to lighting, Sarah seamlessly integrates old and new in her renovation, creating the perfect blend of antique grandeur and modern sophistication.
Win £1,000 to transform your space with this home brand
Metro has teamed up with ufurnish.com and Blinds 2go – proud sponsor of the Best Bedroom category in the Ufurnish.com Home Awards – to give one lucky winner the chance to win £1,000 to spend on Blinds 2go’s stunning collection of made-to-measure blinds and curtains and give your windows the ultimate glow up.
Enter your details below and turn your windows into the best-dressed feature in your home. You have until midnight on 19 August to enter. Good luck!
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* Open to GB residents (excluding Northern Ireland) aged 18+. Entrants must be 18 years or over at the time of entry. Promotion opens at 17:01 on 29/7/25 and closes at 23:59 on 19/8/25. Entrant must submit their first and last name, email address, telephone number, date of birth and postcode when prompted via the entry form available on Metro.co.uk (available here). 1 prize available of £1,000 to spend on Blinds 2go’s or Curtains 2go’s collection of made-to-measure blinds and/or curtains. The Prize is subject to the Promoter’s standard terms and conditions available here. Maximum 1 entry per person. Full T&Cs apply, see here.
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