Whether you’ve been living in your home for years or just moved in there are always ways to change and adapt to make it more beautiful. Even if you’re renting like us, that doesn’t mean you can’t add a little sparkle. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Inject some colour
According to UK TV Home a fresh coat of paint on your walls is the best way to make an easy change and I’m certainly a big fan of colour in a home. In fact you could probably use the expression ‘riot of colour’ to describe the house I lived in in Bridgwater for five years. Some people argued that pink and yellow for a kitchen was too, much but I disagree.
If you’re a little more traditional in your colour choices, you can always inject some colour through accessories. We used Authentico chalk paint on a pile of old photo frames to create the picture collages in our new house, meaning the walls stay fresh and white but are still interesting.
Change kitchen doors and surfaces
If you can’t afford a new kitchen, why not opt for a simpler makeover of doors and surfaces? If the structure and design of your kitchen is just right, then this could be good for you. If you choose this option, you avoid the mess and shake up of builders and it’s kinder to your finances too.
Be warned however – in a moment of whimsy some years ago I decided to update my kitchen by covering all the cupboard doors with some oak effect sticky back plastic. This was not a good look.
Soft furnishings
Adding some soft furnishings is one of the most effective ways to beautify your home and you don’t need any DIY skills either. New curtains can really lift a room, as does a bold rug or a few cushions. If you have dining chairs with loose seats in or lidded storage boxes, how about reupholstering them with some colourful fabrics?
Never underestimate the power of a good cushion.
Lighting
Lighting has always been my downfall when it comes to interiors, but as the ageing process creeps up on me strategic lighting is going to become ever more important.
Mood lighting can add character to all homes, so don’t rely on that one old lamp you’ve had for years with a 60w bulb in it. Where ceilings are low, pop in spotlights, as pendants can make the space seem cluttered. For those lucky enough to have a high ceilings, a large statement light fitting can add a touch of drama to a room. Dimmers are always a great choice to improve ambiance, all at the twist of a button.
Think outside the box
If you’re looking around your house with a feeling of despair, take a few minutes to think past the old three piece and tiny third bedroom. Are there any hidden spaces that are undeveloped? Do you have a loft ripe for conversion or a long garden that could be home to an outside office space? For more unusual ideas, check out these suggestions from service magic.
What are your top tips for brightening up a tired space?
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