We’re used to seeing perfectly styled photos of people’s avocado toast or filter free sunsets, but would you give an image of a newly installed fireplace the thumbs-up sign, or linger on a picture of a freshly painted wall? Well, for those of us who are obsessed with home decor, the answer is YES!
Some Instagram accounts in the UK - such as shoestring_renovation or Victoria_road_restoration - have clocked up more than 20,000 followers each. They show the ups and downs of people trying to make a dilapidated old house a home, and we love to be taken along for the ride. But Malta has some great Instagram accounts of its own for the decor fiends out there. Here are five of our favs!
Dr Judy Green is a neurologist and gardening enthusiast, and splits her time between Africa and Malta. She bought a Palazzino in Birgu in 2011 and has been renovating it ever since. “I’m told it was built sometime in the 1500s. We wanted something with history and character, and it was only partly converted when we bought it.”
Judy fills her Instagram account with beautiful images of her home in Malta, as well as the flowers and fauna on her farm in Africa. “My job is quite stressful, so Instagram is a great, temporary escape. I have approximately 800 followers and I enjoy getting comments from them about what I post. I have even met some people in person. I will continue to post photos even after the renovation is finished because I think people are interested in my life in Africa as well as in Malta. I do follow other renovation and interior decorating accounts and find them constantly inspiring.”
Another inspiring project by a local couple, follow the slow and steady renovation of this beautiful traditional townhouse in Gzira. Take a look at the compelling before and after images of colourful Maltese tiles being cleaned and polished to their former glory, as well as the eye-catching modern touches by the owners. Well worth a scroll!
“Stones to walls, walls to home. Takes forever but it’s fun.” This is how Nicoletta Moss describes her Instagram account. She bought her house of character in Senglea 10 years ago. “Fixing up an old house is never easy. It always costs more than you think it will and takes longer.” Nicoletta’s images show stunning views of the Grand Harbour from her rooftop terrace as the decking and glass wall panels were being installed. She also had a unique, see-through kitchen back splash put in, which allows the traditional stonework to remain on display.
“I hadn’t planned to set up an Instagram account, but my best friend is addicted and showed me what can be done. I didn’t want to be another person who posts photos of their kids, travels or daily routines, so I decided to post photos of my renovation. Half of my followers are my friends, but the other half found me through hashtags. It’s always nice to get a compliment on the hard work you have done or share any knowledge I have.” The Instagram convert even has plans for her account after her renovation is complete. “My parents-in-law own a house around the corner. I’m helping them with their renovations as well, so I should have enough Instagram material for another three years.”
This account is run by Italian architect Lorenzo De Ninno. Watch how he brings an old crumbling building back to its heyday. This account is for those who love the mud and grime of construction as well as images of pretty vintage cushions. The beautifully shot staircases and pictures of reclaimed wood will leave you wanting to pull up your sleeves and get dirty!
This account follows the renovation of a house of character in Naxxar as well as the passions of its owner Nathan Gatt. From the tasteful shrubbery in the courtyard to the modern open fire, it’s a joy to watch him turn four stones walls into a home!
Gorgeous, aren't they? What accounts do you follow?