We bought a house. Andrew and I... seriously, what? Two overgrown kids buying a house—if that doesn’t sound like the beginning of an adventure, I don’t know what does! We’ve always been the type who thought we’d never buy property because it felt like paying it off was a distant dream. But here we are, with our very own piece of Spain. No more rentals. This means real renovations, the kind without a landlord breathing down your neck. This is about to be a wild ride, and since I love to DIY anything and everything (except electrical and plumbing because, you know, safety), I’m so ready for this big, messy, beautiful project.
Inspiration and Planning: Pinterest & Mood Boards
Like anyone embarking on a renovation journey, we turned to Pinterest—our best friend for all things home inspo. It started innocently enough, scrolling through endless images of dreamy mix of Moroccan Riads and Spanish villas, rustic interiors, and those lush Mediterranean outdoor spaces. Before long, my Pinterest boards were overflowing with ideas, from earthy color palettes to cozy outdoor nooks that felt like they were pulled straight out of a movie set. I started creating mood boards for every room, trying to nail down the look and feel we wanted—modern yet timeless, cozy yet functional, and most importantly, us.
The Grand Plan: Stage by Stage
To keep this overwhelming task somewhat sane, we broke our plans down into stages. Here’s what we’ve got so far:
Part One: Indoors
Immediate Upgrades and Changes: Quick wins that won’t break the bank—stuff we can do right away without dipping too much into our savings.
Building: The big foundational changes—knocking down walls, creating new spaces, and getting the structural stuff sorted.
Built-In Furniture Stage: Time to get those permanent fixtures, built-in wardrobes, and custom furniture up and running.
Wall and Floor Coverings: From microcement to lime wash, it’s all about making the surfaces match our vision.
Furnishing and Décor: The fun bit—furnishing our spaces, adding those little touches that turn a house into a home.
Part Two: Outdoors
Clean Up: Getting rid of the junk and starting with a blank slate.
Building Enclosure: Creating walls and partitions to make cozy, usable outdoor spaces.
Built-In Furniture: Outdoor seating, bar areas, and our beloved pool plans.
Wall and Floor Coverings: The same vibe inside continues outside, so everything feels cohesive.
Furnishing & Decor: Bringing in comfort with outdoor seating, dining areas, and those all-important splashes of personality.
Getting the Vision Down
Before we dive into these stages, I needed to get a sense of what this would look like. Enter Planner 5D—a super user-friendly design tool. I used photos and videos of the house, counted tiles, and made a rough estimate of the space dimensions to create digital mock-ups of our future home.
Originally, we were thinking of microcementing the whole house in one uniform beige tone, aiming for that minimalistic, villa vibe—clean, sleek, and easy to maintain. But as I studied the images more, the existing textured walls started to grow on me. They had this cool, slightly uneven look, like a cave house in Santorini but with a bit more edge. So, we pivoted: we’d keep the existing white walls and only microcement the bathroom and kitchen to match.
This decision meant tweaking our color palette; suddenly, the warm wood stain I’d initially planned didn’t work with the bright white. Back to the drawing board, but it felt good. We were saving time, effort, and a lot of back-breaking work.
Part One: Indoors
Immediate Changes
First up, the front door. We want to install a Eufy video security doorbell so we can let tradespeople in when we’re not home, but first, the door needs some love. It’s old and worn, so we’ll sand it back and stain it, along with all the wood throughout the house. We’re torn between walnut and dark oak—samples will tell the story.
This will be the very beginnings, sanding back all the windows and staining them to match throughout the whole house.
While things are happening around us, the living room will be our “studio apartment” setup, containing everything in one spot so we can still function while the chaos unfolds.
Creating Our Upstairs Retreat
The upstairs of our new home is currently divided into two small, somewhat uninspiring bedrooms that feel more cramped than cozy. But rather than seeing these spaces as separate little rooms, we see an opportunity—a chance to create a beautiful, connected retreat that feels like an escape within our home. You know, the kind of place where you can just hide away with a good book, take a nap, or simply have some time out from the world (or, let’s be real, each other—because working from home together can be a test of anyone's patience!).
The Vision:
Our plan is to turn these two modest rooms into one large, flowing space. The idea is to create what we’d call in Australia a “retreat”—a sanctuary that feels more like a master suite, complete with separate zones for sleeping, dressing, and relaxing. We want this space to feel luxurious yet down-to-earth, a bit like a boutique hotel room with all those little cozy touches that make you want to never leave.
Knocking Down Walls & Opening Up Space:
First things first, we’re taking out the wall that currently divides the two rooms. Now, I’ve watched enough episodes of renovation shows to know that any wall could be load-bearing (cue the dramatic music), but I’ve got a hunch that this one isn’t going to give us too much grief. We’re planning to knock it out and replace it with a wide, arched walkway, creating a smooth, open flow between the two spaces. Think grand and airy, but still keeping that intimate, cozy feel.
The Sleeping Alcove:
Now, one of the rooms will be dedicated to a dreamy sleeping alcove. Imagine this: an elevated platform bed tucked into what feels like its own little cocoon. We’ll build a step up to the bed to give it a sense of separation and importance, almost like a stage—but for naps. It’ll have space on either side for built-in nightstands, and we’re thinking of adding some soft lighting above the headboard to create that perfect ambient glow. It’s like a little nest where you can hide away and recharge, and I am all about that vibe.
The Dressing and Lounging Area:
The larger room will then serve as our dressing and lounging area—a spacious spot where we can spread out. There’s going to be a wardrobe wall where all our clothes can live in peace (read: organized chaos), plus a built-in bookshelf for all the novels I keep saying I’ll read.
We’re also thinking about adding a full-length mirror because, let’s be honest, you need to see your outfit in its entirety before heading out into the world, especially when you’ve spent the last two years in loungewear. And for those lazy mornings or late-night chats, there’ll be a reading nook by the window, complete with a comfy chair and a little side table—perfect for a cup of tea or a glass of wine, depending on the hour.
Creating Mood with Lighting and Texture:
The whole space is going to be moody yet inviting. We’re planning to line the hallway leading up to the arched doorway with LED strip lights—hidden, of course, to give that soft, diffused glow that’s more “welcome home” than “airport runway.” I want to play with textures, combining smooth microcement floors with warm, earthy rugs, plush throws, and lots of layered textiles to make the room feel alive and loved-in.
Arched Doorways:
And because I can’t get enough of that arched look, we’re not stopping with just one. We’re taking out the existing door to the main bedroom and transforming it into another archway, creating a seamless, sculptural feel throughout the retreat. I’ve got this vision of gently curved lines guiding you from one end of the space to the other, making the whole area feel cohesive and thought-out. It’s all about creating a flow that feels natural, and the arches are like little visual hugs (yes, that’s a thing).
Staircase Makeover
The staircase in our new home is one of those areas that often gets overlooked, but it plays a huge role in the overall flow of the house. Currently, it’s a bit of a mess with cracked tiles on the treads and some charming yet slightly worn mosaic tiles on the risers. The dated railings and balusters make it feel cramped and closed off, giving the whole area an old-school vibe that’s in desperate need of a refresh. So, we’ve got big plans to bring it back to life, starting with removing the existing railings and replacing them with a solid wall. This will create a cleaner, more cohesive look and turn the little area beside the stairs into a functional space rather than just an awkward nook.
Once the wall is up, we’ll move on to tackling the stairs themselves. We’re planning to microcement the treads, giving them a sleek, modern finish that contrasts beautifully with the mosaic risers we’re keeping. Those tiles have a rustic charm that we just can’t part with—they add character and a touch of Spanish flair that ties in nicely with the rest of the house. To get there, we’ll repair the cracked tiles, sand everything down, and apply microcement for a fresh, polished look that’s both stylish and practical. It’s all about creating a balance between old-world charm and contemporary design.
One of the coolest features of this staircase is the hidden space underneath, which is pretty rare in Australian homes. We’re turning it into a cat oasis—a little hotel for our fur babies complete with climbing shelves, a separate area for the litter box, and a door with cut-out arches and organic shapes that mimic Mediterranean-style shelving. Not only will it be a functional spot for the cats, but it’ll also add a quirky and playful touch to the house, doubling as a unique backdrop for social media content because, let’s be real, we’re living in 2024 and need that perfect Insta nook.
To finish it all off, we’re adding subtle LED strip lights under each tread to create a warm, inviting glow. It’s a practical addition for those late-night trips up and down the stairs but also adds a touch of ambiance that elevates the whole look. By enclosing the staircase and making these updates, we’re turning a purely functional part of the house into a standout feature that blends old charm with modern touches, making the space feel intentional, personal, and truly ours.
The Living Room and Office
The living room and office are two of the most functional spaces in our new home, and while they don’t need massive structural changes, there are still a few tweaks we’re excited to make. In the living room, the plan is to add custom shelving using inexpensive pine wood panels with brackets underneath for support. It’s a simple, budget-friendly approach, but the idea is to stain the wood and see how it turns out. If it works, great; if not, we’ll adapt. This space doesn’t need much, just some clever touches to bring it all together. Eventually, we’d love to install faux ceiling beams to add some rustic charm, but that’s a project for later down the line.
The office will be our dedicated workspace, so it’s all about making it functional and cozy. We plan to install a long desktop that stretches across the window wall, creating enough room for both our iMacs. It’s going to be our go-to spot for all things work-related, so having ample desk space is key. Behind the desk, we’re adding built-in shelving to keep everything organized and within arm’s reach. A comfy chair in the corner will complete the setup, offering a little nook for reading or brainstorming when we need a break from the screens.
Decor-wise, we’re keeping things simple to start. We’re focusing on functionality first—getting the desk and shelves up, and then we’ll add in the softer touches like plants, artwork, and décor pieces that reflect our personalities. The goal is to create a space that feels inspiring yet calm, where we can both get into the zone without feeling cluttered or overwhelmed.
Overall, both the living room and office are about making the most of what’s already there while adding little details that make the spaces feel like us. We’re taking it step by step, making sure each area serves its purpose, looks good, and makes us feel at home.
Bathroom Transformation
The bathroom is in serious need of some love, and we have big plans to transform it into a functional and stylish space. First up, the bidet has to go; it’s just not something we’ll use, and we’d prefer to repurpose the plumbing for a new vanity. We’re also planning to change the door so that it opens into the bathroom and hides the toilet when open, giving the room a more spacious feel. The current shower setup isn’t doing it for us either, so we’re planning to remove the existing shower pan and expand the shower area to run the full width of the back wall. This will not only make it larger but also give it a cleaner, more modern look.
We’ll also be building a partition wall between the shower and the new vanity area, allowing us to keep the spaces distinct without using glass partitions, which we find a hassle to maintain. The entire bathroom will be covered in microcement from top to bottom, giving it a seamless, sleek finish that ties in with the rest of the house.
We’re still undecided on the sink itself; ideally, I’d love to build an integrated microcement sink, but if that proves too challenging, we’ll opt for an above-counter stone sink that complements the minimalist aesthetic.
Overall, the bathroom transformation is all about maximizing the space and making it work for us. It’s going to be a big job, but we’re excited to get started and turn this outdated room into something that feels fresh, functional, and completely us.
Kitchen Revamp
The kitchen is in desperate need of a revamp. Although it was marketed as “new,” the finishes were poorly executed, making it clear that a makeover is necessary. Thankfully, microcement is perfect for this job—we'll use it to cover the cabinets, countertops, and every surface to create a sleek, unified look. The plan is to transform the current one-wall kitchen into a more practical galley-style layout, adding tall cabinets along the empty left wall to maximize storage.
Currently, the washing machine awkwardly sits in the kitchen, which is common in Spain but feels out of place for us Aussies. To fix this, we’ll replace it with an integrated washer/dryer combo that blends seamlessly with the cabinetry. The dishwasher and fridge will also be integrated, keeping the design streamlined. We’re upgrading the rangehood to a hidden style, replacing the double sink with a large basin, and switching out the taps and stovetop to complete the transformation.
On the left side of the kitchen, we’ll add a row of tall cabinets to house an integrated fridge and freezer, pantry, spice rack, and spots for the microwave and coffee machine. This will give us plenty of storage and keep the kitchen looking tidy and organised.
The goal is to create a functional, stylish space that works for us, with a focus on clean lines and a cohesive design. We’re still deciding on whether to go with brass or brushed gold finishes for the hardware, but either way, the kitchen is set to be one of the most dramatic transformations in the house.
Part Two: Outdoors
When we first saw the outdoor space, we knew it was a huge part of why we fell in love with this house. With three distinct levels, each offering something different, this area is set to be the heart of our home—a place where we can unwind, entertain, and soak in the stunning Spanish landscape. For us, the outdoors is more than just a backyard; it’s where we spend most of our time. Whether it’s late-night games, splashing around in a pool, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a coffee in hand, this space is our sanctuary. We’ve got big plans to transform these levels into areas that reflect how we live: casual, a little unconventional, and full of personality. Let’s break it down level by level.
Upper Level: Our Outdoor Oasis
The top level of our outdoor space is where our biggest dreams lie. The plan is to transform this area into an enclosed oasis, complete with an outdoor kitchenette, seating area, shower, and a cocktail pool (or spool). We’re starting with the basics: building walls around the space, adding window openings to keep the stunning view in focus. The existing plumbing from the old laundry sink gives us a head start for the outdoor shower and bar setup. We’re planning to integrate shelving for the kitchenette, which will include a small grill, a sink, and a counter space for prepping meals. Right next to that, we’ll have built-in seating with custom cushions and a table perfect for playing cards or enjoying a casual meal. The pool will run along the far right wall, with a lounging area beside it for sunbathing and soaking up the view. To keep things as hassle-free as possible, we’re opting for a retractable cover rather than a fixed roof to avoid the need for permits. This upper level is all about creating a cozy, functional space where we can relax, entertain, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Middle Level: The Entertainment Hub
The middle level is set to become our main entertainment hub, perfect for gatherings and relaxed evenings under the stars. This space is currently a blank slate, aside from an old above-ground pool that’s on its way out. Our plan is to build an above-ground conversation pit with a central fire pit, where we can spend cool evenings chatting with friends or just enjoying a quiet night. Above, we’ll string festoon lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Against the far right fence, we’re adding a bar-height ledge with stools—this will be our spot for enjoying a drink while soaking in the best views the property has to offer. We’re also turning this area into our outdoor movie spot, with a portable projector and a big screen for watching films under the stars. It’s going to be a versatile space that combines fun, comfort, and a bit of that wow factor we’ve always dreamed of.
Lower Level: The Garden and Garage
The lowest level of our outdoor space is where practicality meets a touch of greenery. This area includes our garage, which is essential for parking and storage, plus a small grassy patch on the right side that’s just waiting to be put to use. We’re turning this into our veggie garden using garden towers, which are perfect for making the most of vertical space. The garden will be tucked away in a sunny nook, keeping it accessible yet out of the main thoroughfare. This spot will be home to our fresh herbs, veggies, and maybe even a few fruit plants—perfect for adding a bit of farm-to-table flair to our meals. It’s a simple setup, but it rounds out our vision for a space that’s as functional as it is enjoyable, blending the practicality of everyday life with the joys of outdoor living.
Each level of our outdoor area has a unique purpose, and we can’t wait to bring our vision to life. From quiet mornings by the pool to lively evenings around the fire pit, this outdoor space is set to become the heart of our new home in Spain.
And That’s Just the Beginning…
These plans are just the starting point, and if you know us, you’ll know that this is only the beginning. We’re taking everything one project at a time, adjusting as we go, and figuring out what really works for us and our lifestyle. This house is going to be a reflection of us—quirky, practical, and full of character. We’ve got plenty of ideas up our sleeves, and we’re not afraid to pivot when something doesn’t go to plan.
From the big structural changes to the smallest décor details, each step is a part of our journey, and we’re excited to share it with you. We’ll be documenting it all—the successes, the hiccups, and everything in between. It’s going to be messy, and it’s definitely going to be a learning experience, but that’s what makes it fun. We’re not just building a house; we’re creating a home filled with all the memories we’ll make along the way.
So stick around, because if you thought buying a house was exciting, just wait until you see what we do with it. This is our new chapter, and we’re thrilled to bring you along for the ride.
Adios!
Jasmine & Andrew
