Renovating your home can be a transformative experience. But if you’re not quite ready for all the stress heavy construction can bring, consider these updates that will have a lighter impact on your daily life.
FRESHEN THE COLOR
It never ceases to amaze me how impactful an updated color palette can be. Think about pulling out colors from an inspiration like artwork, tile, or fabric. Within those colors, choose a neutral, a primary hue, and a pop color.
CONSIDER FURNITURE UPDATES
Sometimes a room may look tired because the furniture is tired. Though new seating or tables can be pricey, they can be much less expensive than a renovation. First make sure your floor plan allows for good walking space and flow, then find pieces with the proper size and scale to give a new look. For maximum impact, consider upholstery in warm, earthy, or bold colors. Add functional tables to make the room cozy and user-friendly.
ADD LAYERS OF TEXTURE
The most successful room designs have a layered look. I always like to tell my clients that ten design elements, layered together, make stylish homes. Combine contractor-free updates for a new look such as: (1) Floor plan (2) Color palette (3) Flooring and rugs (4) Large furniture (5) Supporting furniture (6) Lighting (7) Window treatments (8) Artwork (9) Accessories
MAKE A STATEMENT WITH WALLPAPER
I know, I know – wallpaper can be a pain to remove. I can admit that. But to me, the impact it can have in a room is worth the effort 10 times over. There’s just nothing like it for changing the attitude of a room.
DRAW THE EYE WITH TRIMS AND MOLDING
Right now, adding texture with wood, tile, and other textural moldings is super popular. And for good reason. There’s something so interesting about creating shadow and tactile surfaces on walls. For me, I’m drawn to the sense of history and storytelling these embellishments can give to plain, new drywall.
ACCESSORIZE AND PERSONALIZE
The best rooms have a story to tell about those who dwell within. While I’m not a fan of excessive clutter, I do make a point to get to know clients well enough to add accessories that will mean something in the designs – whether those items are cherished trinkets, or new pieces that I know will delight and entertain. Most of the time it’s a mix of the two.
SWITCH UP THE LIGHTING
Statement light fixtures, sconces, and lamps add a designer touch to any space. Not only are they beautiful objects, but the glowy light they provide warms a space and invites relaxation. Scale is important, so don’t be afraid to go large. Dimmers are great for controlling the amount of light and mood, so splurge a little with your electrician and add them when changing out chandeliers.
