Take a Peek at Blogger Dabito’s Revamped New Orleans Bungalow

Despite its scraggly front yard and dilapidated back shed, this 1960s ranch house in the Gentilly neighborhood of New Orleans was just right for Ryan Bennett and partner Dabito, a designer, photographer, stylist, and blogger who goes by one name. By using the same type of low-effort, high-impact decorating tricks he showcases on his blog, Old Brand New, Dabito and Ryan gave the house a refresh without spending a lot of money or doing any indoor renovations. The result is a space so appealing that it has thousands of fans on social media.

Put It On Repeat

The home that Ryan and Dabito revamped is filled with a collection of art and objects unified by repeating colors and materials. The theme in the sunroom centers on blues and yellows and natural wood finishes. The plush velvet sofa is a modern counterpoint to the vintage decor, and a prime napping spot.

Wall Color Royal Navy (4011-4), Valspar

Colored Accents

Although the living room has white walls, it reads as colorful thanks to layers of accessories, including ceramics glazed in blues, striped pillows and throws from Peru, and art framed in yellow. Cut monstera leaves have an especially long vase life and make a statement on the living room mantel.

Indoor Plants for Low Light

Collections on Display

Multiple cultural influences inspire Dabito's interior design. A sideboard vignette features a cluster of woven baskets that creates dimensional wall art. An African-inspired floor rug accompanies the worldly display.

Cultural Layers

Blankets from Peru, prints from the Philippines, and a secondhand throw rug layer on color in the bedroom. Natural textures like a jute rug, wicker chair, and side table continue the eclectic theme. A single frond wallpaper accent wall finishes the room on a budget.

Retro DIY

Dabito built this sleek, retro-look desk for $230 using off-the-shelf materials from Home Depot. Brass-color spray paint spiffs up the metal brackets; for shelves, he used affordable particle board rather than staining plywood. Gold accents and potted plants make for a fun and functional workspace.

Learn How To Make These Shelves

Stain It Black

The stained patio shelter serves as a dark background to make plants stand out. The homeowners painted the cement foundation white to contrast with the matte black wall and chose inexpensive corrugated aluminum for the ceiling. The ceiling beams were stained the same rich walnut as their new wood fence. A playful hanging chair and a low-slung sofa provide ample comfy seating and enhance the inviting feel.

Stain Color Black Alder Woodscapes Exterior Stain (SW3022), Sherwin Williams

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