DIY expert Medina Grillo knows what makes an interiors account impossible to scroll past – and she says Lydia Dinga’s colourful, characterful renovation journey has exactly that magic. Lydia, the creator behind @lydiadingahome, has been named the Best Interiors Content Creator in House Beautiful's Real Style Awards 2026 for her unique style and relatable renovation updates.
Medina says: ‘Lydia stood out to me because her page is genuinely engaging – the kind of content you stop to watch and save. In today’s interiors world, personality matters just as much as the design itself, and Lydia’s really shines through. She shares the relatable story of renovating her home, learning along the way and bringing her audience with her. Her style feels unique and daring, and she isn’t afraid to get stuck into DIY.'
We asked Lydia to reveal the secret behind her fabulous style, how she manages renovation overwhelm, and the savvy lessons every homeowner should know before doing up their house.
What’s your decorating style in three words?
Warm, lived-in and collected.
What’s your ultimate real style secret?
Mixing high and low pieces unapologetically. Some of my favourite spaces come from pairing something brand new with something vintage or thrifted. This instantly adds depth and avoids that overly 'done' look. Also don’t underestimate paint! It’s one of the quickest and most effective ways to completely transform a space.
When did you realise you wanted to share your home transformation story online?
It started during my first renovation. I was a young, first-time buyer, self-funding the project with no real experience, and I quickly realised how little transparency there was around the actual costs and realities of renovating. I wanted to share that openly so others could go into it more informed than I was. I began documenting the journey on YouTube, and it naturally grew from there.
What are your 3 top tips on managing renovation overwhelm?
- Budget, budget, budget – and include a contingency for your contingency. Get multiple quotes, review them carefully, and cross-check with others who have worked with the tradesperson. You have to be incredibly savvy when it comes to money.
- Accept that timelines will shift, and delays are part of the process, whether it’s materials, trades, or unexpected issues. Building in flexibility and patience is key.
- Focus on one phase at a time because trying to tackle everything at once can feel overwhelming. Breaking the renovation down into smaller, manageable stages makes it far more achievable.
