Our oldest child spent her last Junior semester of college working as a congressional intern in Washington D.C. Although we were proud of her for earning the position we missed her terribly, especially her four siblings. Since one of our family’s love languages is home renovation our kids decided to give their big sister’s bedroom a makeover while she was away.
Prep Work
First they had to go through lots of her stuff and pack it up so they could do the work. She mostly owns books and clothing. Lots and lots of books and clothing.
Ripping out carpet
Mary, our oldest, has never complained about the old carpet in her bedroom. The four other bedrooms have all received a flooring makeover, but her 20 year old carpet has remained. It was definitely time to replace it!
Many little hands make light work.
The three middle siblings all pitched in ripping out carpeting and then doing the slow and tedious work of pulling out all the staples. They worked with such determination. It was clear to me as their mama they wanted her to be really happy and surprised with her room when she came home for the Summer.
Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
We used luxury vinyl tile by Style Selections from Lowe’s. It was a great price and incredibly simple to install. We cut the plank flooring with a box cutter and made sure to sweep the floor very well before laying down the planks.
Easy Installation
The vinyl plank is laid in place and then firmly and evenly pressed in it’s place for a few seconds. Our boys did the large majority of the work and I acted as a general contractor, Fun! When our kids decide to do a certain task they really believe in, they’ll get it done and need minimal help.
Our oldest son Duncan wasn’t taking any chances in front of the high traffic bedroom door, and laid down a few weights on the planks for added measure. The flooring finish is smooth, even and waterproof. We’re very happy with the look and feel of this product.
Laying the whole floor took about three hours from beginning to end. Laying vinyl plank flooring is such a great DIY for young people. It’s simple to achieve a great look and just enough work for them to be really proud of themselves.
Putting the Bedroom Back Together
I came in at the end of the project and helped the boys pull the room back together. This is the part of any remodel that I like best obviously. The warm wood color of the vinyl plank flooring paired well with the light blue turquoise paint color of the wall.
Sibling DIY with Love
Having your kids away from home is an adjustment, but not only for parents. All our kids have missed having their sister near them and part of their lives. For our boys, giving their big sister’s bedroom a makeover was their way of showing their love and support.
All Ready for Big Sis to Come Home
Really proud of the kids for attempting and completing this DIY. Replacing the carpet with wood vinyl plank flooring was just what this room needed and gave it a whole new look.
Have your children shown an interest in home renovation? Would love to hear your thoughts on kids and DIY!
xo Maria
Loved your recounting of big sis’ bedroom renovation. Once the big homecoming calmed down, how did Mary react to the makeover?
They showed her with facetime and she loved it.