Nelson Mandela Bay’s home décor enthusiasts recently came together for an engaging workshop hosted by City Paint & Tool, filled with practical advice, expert tips, and lively discussions on painting, furniture revamps, and bringing personal style into every room.
The event was a mix of collaboration, hands-on advice, and idea sharing, with attendees asking questions and even helping answer one another’s queries. Two industry professionals, Melani Petersen, an interior stylist, and Jana Rademeyer, co-owner of Second Time Around, led the session, sharing their experience in creating beautiful, functional spaces that reflect personal style.
From Prep to Perfection
Melani emphasised the importance of preparation before any project. “Good prep is everything,” she said. “Do your homework before starting, make sure primers are in place, and understand the materials you’re working with.”
Some of the key takeaways included:
- Choose Your Colours Wisely – Pantone’s colour of the year, Mocha Mousse, was highlighted as a versatile neutral. Experts recommend picking a base colour, layering with warm tones, and experimenting with textures using wooden slats, wallpapers, or fabrics.
- Colour Drenching – Painting walls, ceilings, and even cabinets in one colour can make furniture pop as contrasting elements.
- Patience is Key – For wood surfaces, letting coats dry fully before touching them is critical. “If it’s tacky, don’t brush it,” Jana reminded attendees.
- Matte Finishes for Classy Looks – Matte or low-sheen varnishes add sophistication, while chalk paint offers versatility but less durability than acrylic.
- Primers Matter – Using a universal undercoat protects surfaces and improves adhesion. Quick-dry enamels need primers when applied to wood.
Reviving and Repurposing Furniture
Jana, as co-owner of Second Time Around, shared her passion for “second-time-around” pieces. Repurposing old furniture not only gives it new life but also tells a story. She stressed:
“Old pieces become heirlooms when cared for properly. Prep, patience, and proper primer are everything. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes — you can always strip and start again.”
Tips for furniture prep included using a combination of turpentine and steel wool, or sugar soap and elbow grease for thorough cleaning. Spray guns were recommended for solid colour projects, while water-based paints work well for wood surfaces.
Personal Style and Natural Elements
A recurring theme of the event was the importance of personal style. Both speakers encouraged attendees to embrace their unique tastes and incorporate natural elements to bring life into a space. Colour drenching, pairing antiques with modern pieces, and experimenting with textures were highlighted as ways to make rooms feel curated yet lived-in.
Budget-Friendly Ideas
Reviving and repurposing old furniture also helps save money while creating a space that feels personal. Melani advised attendees to plan and budget carefully, reminding them that preparation and patience are key to achieving professional-looking results without overspending.
Final Thoughts
The workshop demonstrated that home makeovers are not just about “putting paint on a wall,” but about achieving a vision. Collaboration, preparation, and creativity are central to creating spaces that are functional, stylish, and reflective of the homeowner’s personality.
Attendees left inspired, armed with tips, tricks, and the confidence to tackle their own projects — and ready to watch their paint dry, one careful coat at a time.
Keep an eye on City Paint & Tool’s social media channels for upcoming events and more expert-led inspiration.
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