Time and again you might find yourself wishing that your home looked a little fresher. While a total renovation may not be in the budget, there’re plenty of things you can do over a weekend that can add oodles of charm into your space.
Revamping your existing décor doesn’t have to be costly or time consuming. There’re several things you can introduce or change to spruce up your living space. Simple changes to your house décor can make a big difference in your mood and attitude.
So gear up and get ready to tackle your space and create a haven that you’ll want to rush to after work. Here are some ideas to get you started. [break]
Photos Courtesy: Arjun Shah
De-clutter and design
For a quick design makeover, consider tackling your countertops. A great solution to clear the clutter is to organize items in glass jars and trays. Items like TV remotes can be arranged on a tray on the coffee table. Put liquor bottles, glasses, and bar accoutrements on a tray in the living or dining room. Glass jars in various shapes and sizes can also work wonders in keeping knick knacks in order. Look for attractive jars and use them to store anything and everything from edibles in the kitchen to stationary supplies in your study. One of the best ways to hide clutter can be to get storage bins in interesting shapes and sizes and use them sparingly around rooms. You can also find bins that double as stools for added functionality. The idea is to find pieces that can be used as storage as well as décor items. Beds with lift up mattresses that reveal storage sections beneath are great investments for small spaces. If you don’t have that option, then use the space beneath your bed to store items that you don’t use every single day. Opt for pretty wicker baskets that can be stowed away.
Fashion meets functionality
Put décor pieces in unusual places, like above a door. Lean a few interesting artifacts against a mirror or hang several in an asymmetrical collage. Work with what you have and make it stylish. One of the simplest ways to perk up a space is to rearrange the furniture and artwork. Hang tapestries that you may own to decorate your walls or hang plates to create a decorative wall art. You can use decorate door knobs mounted to a wall as a coat rack in the entry. Having one unique piece as a focal point is crucial in every room so pick one item in each room and decorate around it. Introduce ottomans to your living room’s layout and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. Ottomans are the perfect accessory to a seating arrangement. They take up little visual space when it’s just you and your family and offer that extra seating when guests arrive for a party. Feel like the space could use a pop of color or a hint of pizzazz then try an accent chair. Think of a color that will really stand out against your current scheme, and try to scout something that falls in that shade.
It’s the little things that matter
Refresh your bedroom with new sheets. Don’t forget about closets and shelving. Try papering the back of a cabinet or bookshelf in faux-snakeskin, crocodile, or even graphic prints. Paint can’t come close to the impact. It will inspire you to rearrange your shelves. Stack art, design, gardening and travel books – whatever you collect, on a table. Books are perfect accessories because they’re so personal and they reflect your interests. New toss pillows, a quilt, rug or throw can add a splash of color without breaking the bank. This is one of the more affordable cosmetic updates you can do for your space. If your current throw pillows are worn, consider what colors or patterns you might want to introduce into your space. With a new brood of pillows, your space will take on an entirely new personality. If you’ve had the same accessories peppered throughout your living room for years then it’s time to get them relocated. Consider moving them around for a quick décor uplift.
Create the perfect ambience
Replace your light bulbs. While white lights are good for reading and working, yellow or colored lights can create a romantic mood. Mixing a bright white bulb with other lighting can change the look at night. Changing light fixtures, such as switching to wall sconces from the original builder-grade fixtures can also change the feel of a room. Go on a lamp hunt. There are styles aplenty, way beyond your everyday table lamp. The right lighting in any room is extremely important and if you feel yours could use an upgrade, look for a new lamp or fixture that is both stylish and functional. Adding some trim, fringe or ribbon on the existing lampshades can also help up your décor quotient. Create a reading nook at one corner of your bedroom or living space. Just pull up a chair and throw in some plush cushions and pair it with a small table. You can also opt to use some large floor cushions or a bean bag instead of a chair in a neglected corner of a room and create a perfect reading nook.
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