Does your living room need a new look? Does it feel a bit tired and (yikes!) drab? With the holidays around the corner, there is little budget left to redecorate.
No worries. Here are some interior design ‘tricks and treats’ that are simple and free. There is no reason to run to the store. Everybody has items tucked in the back of the closet, packed in boxes in the attic or even spread out around the house that will create a fresh look – just in time before friends and relatives start making their plans to visit for the holidays.
According to Donna Mathis, owner of Haven Design Works, the interior design firm that specializes in creating inviting model homes, there a few simple tricks that can create a welcoming new look.
“Start with removing all the art and décor in your room,” Donna advises. “This gives you a whole new perspective on the room. Then, rearrange your existing furniture. Go ahead, experiment. Move pieces like a chair or side table to a different place in your house. This gives you a new look without spending any money. Mix and match old and new, expensive and inexpensive items and even mix up patterns and textures. Pillows are a great way to use pattern and textures.
“Now, go shopping in your own home. Move decor items and art to different places around a room or to a different room altogether throughout the house. By rotating your existing accessories and art work you will help breathe new life into rooms.”
Donna notes that it’s a designer trick to display accessories in odd number groupings when decorating. “ I combine objects of varying heights and leave a little space between each object to create the perfect look.” Also, she says, “don’t feel obligated to display items you don’t like. If there’s a décor item that holds little (sentimental) value, get rid of it or pack it away.”
As a special ‘treat’ for the living room, do-it-yourself decorators may consider replacing the art above the fireplace with a mirror. “Add a couple vases with twigs that you can collect from outside and a few candles of different heights. This creates a nice ‘mantel-scape’ that you can update with new branches and foliage throughout the holidays,” recommends Donna.
“Most importantly – If you find that you need to venture to the store don’t buy stuff to just fill an empty space. Think about your purchase and buy only what you really love. The most important aspect of decorating your home is that it reflects who you are and your personality and style.”
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