Our household is learning the importance of flexibility. While some prefer to build their wardrobe or undergo cosmetic makeovers, I am constantly tweaking the home. Even after I made deals with the family after the last remodel that we would not endure living with contractors for another couple of years I am treading back on my promise, learning that when it comes to the home we can always welcome updates.
Curved furniture, like this bed from Layla Grace, in a fashionable color updates and softens a room.
There is a clever balance between affordability, low maintenance upgrades, and design so the improvements will enhance your life with limited fanfare. Follow these seven additions that will dramatically impact the home and are well worth the investment:
1. Flooring: New floors are the foundation of a home. Either refurbish existing boards, paint over, or consider new hardwood. Light wood is still trending as it opens up the house and adds brightness.
Wood floors add instant appeal. There are also affordable options, such as this oak engineered plank from Overstock.
2. Paint: Whether it’s adding a bold color to a wall or refreshing existing rooms, fresh paint will instantly add sparkle to the environment.
Basic white or a dramatic paint color, like Retro Metro Green by Fine Paints of Europe, is a cosmetic touch with volumes of impact.
3. Lighting: Bring in light sources to create a mood and look. Go for illuminating pocket lights or statement pieces like chandeliers, pendant lights and lamps that anchor a room.
A row of colored pendant lamps by YLighting add whimsy to a dining area.
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- Lamps are workhorse pieces that provide function and style. Available at Stray Dog Designs.
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- A creative light fixture with color and personality for instant design. Photos by Graham Yelton Photography
4. Tile: Innovative tiling will invigorate the kitchen, bath, bar area or even a mud room. Be bold with bright colors or choose a conservative choice in a lighter shade but current look.
Glass and natural stone mosaic tile, available at Wayfair, will direct a room’s design.
5. Furnishings: A curated selection of pieces will secure personal style. Think like a designer by doing the research, reading shelter publications, visiting design sites, and create folders of imagery with favored looks. Then source the companies that supply your themes. Add furniture in stages so you can have time living with the pieces, are confident with your direction, and is less of a financial burden.
This sofa by Tobi Farley from Layla Grace represents fine detailing from the curved nailhead trim and clean lines.
6. Art: From over sized posters to a passed down portrait, art is the eye candy of the home. When choosing paintings, prints or wall art don’t jump into a purchase but make sure you have a “falling in love” reaction as this can be an everlasting relationship.
7. Appliances: It takes one va va va voom piece to command a room, where a star appliance can be all that’s needed to add drama. This dual result of image and the addition of a quality stove, refrigerator or electronic is all that is needed to energize a room.
A show-stopping appliance, like this cast iron stove by AGA, is the only addition needed to tell a design story. Photo credit: AGA Marvel, aga-ranges.com
