As the warm weather starts to heat up, I find myself wanting to give certain rooms a quick face-lift. However, swapping out furniture and replacing carpeting isn’t always within my budget. Yes, HGTV has perfected the room makeover, but in real life home décor adds up and fast! Trust me I should know, I am so that girl that is giving back the flamingo margarita set after the final total button is hit!
Honestly, once you get started it’s hard not to stop! However, with a few simple hints and tricks, I am hoping to make this process for you a little easier… all while staying on budget!
10. Add a plant
Even though I have been held on multiple accounts as a plant killer, I have found adding some green to your space adds life … literally! It gives the room an airy feel and when you add a fun planter you can coordinate with any space. Hint: look for plants that are low maintenance aka almost impossible to kill… you’ll spend less and thank me later! Check out Snake Plants, Peace Lilies or Aloe Plant! Oh and if you purchase them from your local Lowe’s store they give you a one year guarantee! Just save your receipt! (It’s nice to know I have someone rooting for me out there! Haha)
9. Add a stencil wall
Probably the most time-consuming out of the list, but definitely the biggest impact! If you’re looking for an all-day activity, or a stress-test with your partner… this one is for you! I discovered Cutting Edge Stencils a few years back and was automatically hooked. It’s a genius concept that has revamped the “wall paper” trend. It’s a fun DIY project that consists of a wall stencil, latex or acrylic paint, paint roller, painters tape and a whole lotta patience. A bold stencil is perfect for adding that wow statement to a room. With hundreds of styles to choose from beginners to pro you’ll find a design that will bring your room to the next level. www.cuttingedgestencils.com
8. Rearrange the preexisting furniture
The least expensive item on the list and possibly the most satisfying. Refresh with rearranging your existing furniture. As a child I remember constantly changing around my room and redecorating my pegboard with different magazine cut outs. Ok I have since grown on to West Elm pieces and a shag rug, but hey same concept! Optimize space and Feng Shui that ishhhh. Trust me, making simple changes to spacing will harmonize your energy!
7. Switch out your throw pillows
I don’t know about you, but decorative pillows excite the heck out of me! I actually have a closet that we refer to as the pillow graveyard! Its become an obsession, but I swear they are in constant rotation. Each season I find another reason to swap out the textures and colors on the regular and let me tell you… it does make a difference. My go-to store for pillows is Target and Home Goods, both with very reasonable price points! Bed Bath and Beyond also offers cute pillow covers if you are looking for a quick swap (don’t forget those 20% off coupons).
6. Display some new photos
Remember that amazing trip you took last summer or that birthday party you threw for your hubby? Well it’s the perfect time to bring those memories back while adding some personality to your room! Shutterfly is my best friend when piecing together a gallery wall or prints for the new decorative frames. An easy way to transform a wall and the best excuse to upload those thousand photos on your camera roll.
5. Add a decorative tray to your coffee table
A simple swap of small accessories can give a room a quick change in personality. Adding a fun colored or textured tray to your coffee table is the easiest way to add some personality to your space. Check out www.Jossandmain.com for a fun accent tray to add to the mix.
4. Add a throw blanket
Change up the feel of your sofa with a throw blanket. In the colder temperatures I tend to go for the faux fur throws which add a cozy feel. In the summer I am all about the adorable boho throws from www.Anthropologie.com (side note, when you get bored of these they work perfect on the bed too!)
3. Swap out your curtains
A time before Target and Homegoods we had curtain stores! Yes, they did exist and remember hunting for the perfect match to our new throw pillows with my Mom. Fuss no more and know you do not need to match the curtains to the rug hahaha Add some prints to the mix! If you have solid color furniture adding some small neutral prints will add texture from afar and the needed breakup. If you are looking for an airy feel, go with a sheer to avoid blocking light.
2. Add an ottoman
Looking for more seating, but no room for an arm chair or love seat!? I introduce you to the chameleon of the furniture world… the ottoman. Use as alternate seating, a foot stool and even extra storage. This little gem takes up hardly any room and is very portable!
1. Add some unexpected storage
As a fuzzy puppy Mom I have an ever-growing collection of squeaky toys that have found a perfect home in the corner of my living room. The best way to hide all of these fuzzy creatures when company shows up are the adorable decorative baskets at www.Anthropolgie.com They have so many different choices and can also be used for extra blankets or whatever you do not want to be judged for by your in-laws.
Ox Danielle