Artist Dodo Flügge has transformed a Victorian apartment in Edinburgh into a bold display of personal style. The 41-year-old multidisciplinary creator filled the space with original murals, vintage finds, and lively wallpaper, moving away from the neutral decor that defined the flat when she first moved in a year and a half ago.
A blank canvas for personality
Flügge described the initial decor as a “perfect blank canvas” that lacked the character she desired. Rather than the extensive patterned wallpapers she originally planned, she settled on large-scale designs better suited for the small rooms. She credits this shift to the stress of the pandemic, noting that her maximalist vision evolved into a need for a calmer, more liveable environment.
The flat required only decorative updates because of its original features. Flügge began by zoning the living room, painting it in two distinctive colors to separate the relaxing end from the workspace. She matched the skirting boards to the ceiling for a cohesive look, a technique she borrowed from designer Abigail Ahern to ensure the artwork remained the focal point.
She uses the red Smeg appliances in the kitchen as a starting point for the décor. The view from the window, unobstructed by neighboring buildings, prompted her to paint the window frame and skirting white to highlight the scenery. She added lively Rwandan rope baskets from the Fairtrade section at TK Maxx and patterned tableware to the open shelving, creating a multi-purpose area for cooking, eating, and working.
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Flügge’s work studio is in Edinburgh, but she designs and produces artwork at home. This flexibility allows her to switch between relaxing and working throughout the day without leaving the space. Mark works at the dining table, as he loves to watch the world go by while he’s working and it’s light and bright by the window.
Creating a work-life balance
Flügge operates a studio in Edinburgh for printing and production, yet the apartment serves as a primary location for designing. The layout accommodates this dual role, allowing the space to function as a workplace without feeling strictly commercial.
Original features define the bathroom, which is typical of Edinburgh tenements. The space is long and narrow but benefits from natural light. Flügge painted the woodwork and an arch around the door to brighten the room. She noted that this is the only room she plans to change in the future, as she and her partner prefer showers over baths and would like a walk-in shower to open up the space.
Final thoughts
Flügge loves sharing accessible DIYs and showing that you don’t need a big budget to create something characterful. The apartment has become a reflection of her personal style, with its unique blend of original artwork, vintage finds, and lively wallpaper.
