A DIY project is much more than adding a fresh lick of paint and new items to your living space. It allows you to focus, get your creative juices flowing and can even provide stress relief. In the pandemic, it was particularly essential for everyone to find a healthy outlet. Melissa Robynne shares how the pandemic’s lockdown conditions helped to spark her creativity.

‘I have always loved DIY and a range of other creative pursuits! Lockdown, however, revved my motivation. When my personal space became an “everything space” (for example, home office, gym, and more) it encouraged me to rethink what home means and create a place that brings me peace while still being practical and multifunctional.’

Down in art history

While the lockdown jolted Melissa’s DIY journey, her upbringing played a pivotal role. She grew up surrounded by a close-knit, creative family. From woodwork to music, clothing design and even baking, her home was always filled with art. ‘I was exposed to creative energy growing up and was always encouraged to take on new challenges. This definitely motivated me to share my creative flair with others.’

Despite her artsy home ground, Melissa pursued a degree in organisational psychology at the University of Cape Town with an honours in industrial sociology. She shares with us that while her educational background doesn’t reflect her current path, it hasn’t limited her artistic potential or prevented her from delving into her fondness for interior design.

Some of Melissa’s other interests include travelling, fashion and photography. Travel is something she particularly enjoys and she already has nine countries and 20 cities stamped in her passport to show for it!

Getting started

If you’d like to try your hand at DIY, she recommends starting with her favourite affordable item – spray paint. ‘My family knows this all too well, but I have sprayed coffee tables, frames, lamps, vases, faucets, cupboard handles, and more to revamp the look and feel of my home while on a budget.’

She shares that her favourite DIY project thus far, a spray-painted panel door, awarded her a whopping 1 million TikTok views and more than 67 000 on Instagram.

One day at a time

‘It has been such a blessing to interact with people from across the world and spread some creativity. I’m always encouraged when I receive messages from those who are struggling in isolation and found my content helpful. What started as a simple hobby has evolved into so much more, and I am so grateful for all the support.’ The new year is ideal for a DIY project and Melissa recommends upcycling as a good place to start. ‘A new year calls for new habits, and upcycling where you can to reduce wastage is everything! I transformed a few eyesore pieces into the most Pinterest-worthy must-haves. For example, I turned a dirt bin into a gorgeous fluted side table.’

Looking forward

Melissa reveals that she hopes to continue building her innovative DIY brand in the new year with exciting projects in the pipeline. She encourages everyone to take the leap and work towards their goals. ‘Do what you love, and don’t be scared to put yourself out there! A qualification on paper does not define who you are, so never allow yourself to be boxed in by what everyone else expects you to be.

Melissa’s top three affordable @home picks

Floating mirror

‘For anyone who has a small space or home with very little natural light, the addition of a mirror is perfect! A mirror not only spreads light but also creates the illusion of a larger living space.’

Utility lamp

‘Great lighting is so important – it creates such an ambience in your home.’

Frames

‘Gallery walls are all the rage, and whether you mix and match various sizes or go with a more uniform look and feel, it is an easy and fun home project to revive any space.’