My aunt has absolutely fallen in love with The Chronicles of Narnia. In fact, she adores the series so much that she decided to transform her empty attic into a Narnia-themed wonderland for her grandchildren. C.S. Lewis’s Narnia books are considered to be among the best of children’s literature of all time. Loved by kids of all ages, my aunt included, the series has been adapted for stage, television and film numerous times over the years.

How it All Began

After my aunt was initially struck with the idea to transform her attic into a live version of that magical world, some basic sketches were created, and the attic wonderland transformation soon began. The entire endeavor most likely seemed to be an impossible task to onlookers. After all, could this really be transformed into Narnia? Original archive image unavailable Once complete, the attic would include a craft room, library nook, and a lodge-themed bathroom as well as Aslan’s Tent, which would be decorated in “Arabian Nights” décor. Aslan’s Tent would serve as a guest room for parents who were spending the night with their children in Narnia. The final—and perhaps most important—aspect of the Narnia attic would be a wardrobe door leading into a bedroom for the grandchildren. Two ship-style berths, to resemble the Dawn Treader, would be tucked under the slanted ceilings found on each side of the room. Kings would be on one side, and queens would be on the other!

How it All Turned Out

Once the attic was emptied of its belongings, the project began! Initial framing and ductwork began in the attic. Original archive image unavailable The grandchildren’s room began to take shape… Original archive image unavailable as did Aslan’s Tent for the parents. Original archive image unavailable If you can believe it, this would become the lodge bathroom. Original archive image unavailable The library nook/sitting area, which is located in the hallway that leads into the other rooms, wound up being larger than it was originally planned, but that’s okay. More room for books! The craft room is adjacent to the library. Original archive image unavailable Books were cleaned and prepared throughout this entire adventure! Original archive image unavailable As you can imagine, the wardrobe would play a major role in everything. In C.S. Lewis’s books, the children escape to Narnia through a wardrobe, where all the magic began. This was one of the most important purchases of the entire project. Original archive image unavailable Due to its size, the wardrobe had to be taken apart to be transported home and into the attic, where it soon became the entry to the grandchildren’s magical room. Original archive image unavailable There’s no denying that completely transforming your attic is quite the construction job. A dumpster even had to be delivered to the backyard! Once the subfloor was nearly finished, the construction workers installed windows upstairs. Soon, the entire attic became just as beautiful as was envisioned. Aslan's Tent, the parent's bedroom, was finished first. Original archive image unavailable The woodsy-lodge bathroom soon became a gorgeous, functional reality as well. Original archive image unavailable Original archive image unavailable The most important room in the attic also has award-winning appeal! The grandchildren love climbing through the wardrobe to arrive in their absolutely thrilling guest bedroom. Original archive image unavailable Original archive image unavailable The kids also love to snuggle up with a good book in the library nook. There are certainly plenty of books to choose from! Original archive image unavailable Oh, and let’s not forget the craft room. Someone as artistic as my aunt still needs a place to work her magic. Its mystical stained glass door is appropriate, don’t you think? Everyone is already anticipating what her next project will be.
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About Today's guest Author:
Rebecca Fletcher writes for Purely Shutters, but in her spare time she drools over her aunt's Narnia remodeling project - Mimi's Wardrobe. When Narnia is completed, Rebecca is going to slip through the wardrobe doors for an adventure of her own. Perhaps she'll get a glimpse of Mr. Tumnus or even Aslan himself.