In light of the recession, the resourcefulness of people has often been inspiring. From all walks of life, individually and communally, people have been making do to great success. Whether it be making use of leftovers from dinner or giving old clothes a new lease of life by alterations, one thing has become apparent: style doesn't have to cost the earth. With a little bit of time and a large dollop of imagination, homeowners can now renovate rather than move home by utilising the wealth of DIY tools. Of course, if you want to avoid a DIY disaster it's important to match your skill to the correct level of design intricacy.
The DIY novice: Scandinavian Design
Scandinavian design is centred around one thing - simplicity. Defined by functionality and low cost, often using form-pressed wood and pressed metals, Scandinavian design has increased in popularity throughout the Western world. Moreover, with companies such as IKEA in operation providing flat pack Scandinavian design products at a low cost, all you need to do is assemble it yourself.
The DIY enthusiast: Art Deco
Art Deco is the perfect middle ground for DIY users. A concept synonymous with luxury, peaking in the decadent roaring twenties, Art Deco is instantly recognisable through its choice of materials - think aluminium, chrome and lacquer. For the renovator, simple changes like new tiling and glass or chrome panels will immediately conjure up the deco movement. Some knowledge of using drills, hacksaws and screw guns similar to the ones Bosch tools manufacture is essential.
The DIY expert: Modernism
If your DIY is so skilled you are practically a carpenter, modernism could be the choice for you. Modernism, perhaps the most popular interior choice, can be potent when applied correctly, with the skill and precision it calls for. The main feature of modernism is wood - not light pressed wood like Scandinavian design, but rather heavy dark oaks and mahogany. Consequently, flat pack furnishings just don't quite cut the mustard. Rather than cushions and Ottomans, a modern home will have just a few strong, straight lines and large pieces on a wood-panelled floor. To make these pieces a vast amount of tools would be needed, from nailguns to sanders, saws and drills. Admittedly such tools are an investment in themselves, but with a number of internet outlets selling top brands such as Ryobi tools at cheap prices, revamping your home every year is more than affordable.
