I’ve spent 8 years renovating my council flat — everyone deserves a beautiful home

Charlene says her beautiful house remains a work in progress (Picture: Supplied)

‘I haven’t got enough money for another tin of paint, so only half of my living room is pink at the moment,’ confesses Charlene Bonnici, a mum-of-two who’s become social media famous for decorating her council flat.

‘One side of my kitchen isn’t tiled, but I only video the part that is. I’ve still got a really grotty bathroom – that’s my next project.’

Charlene has been renovating her South London council home since moving in with her two daughters eight years ago, but it was only in 2024 that she started to share her DIY tricks online.

The single parent, who works as a cleaner, is on a mission to change the public perception of social housing while inspiring other tenants to decorate on a budget.