1) Add area rug. Not only will it change the character of your space, you can change the perceived scale of seating areas, add texture to smooth floors, bring a new color into the space, and create separation especially in joined rooms.
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| A Pier I area rug for $100 adds texture. |
2) Swap pillows for those in new colors. Try an accent color you like but aren't using in the space. Add TEXTURE to provide a new feel. Use them on your sofa, beds, and larger chairs.
3) Create a new lighting plan. This makes a huge difference in a room and using LED fixtures won't add a lot to your energy bill. Try placing rope lighting under cabinets and large pieces of furniture, add in-shelf or in-cabinet puck lights (only if you have glass doors), and place up-lights in corners. If you have art that you really like, a battery powered picture light creates drama and makes the art a focal point. If you swap out all of your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent (CFL) ones, the addition of new lighting could be net zero energy consumption.
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| New LED puck lights brighten the shelves and CFL bulbs in warm colors brighten the can lights. |
4) Add a layer of fabric to windows. If you have shades or blinds, add a great linen curtain panel at the sides.The fabric adds a great new look and can stop the drafts. If you have panels already, changing the color from a rich, dark one to a light, fresh one may even bring more light into your spaces. Try using tie backs or tassels to make a change. How about adding a creative topper for a new look?
5) Swap out your accessories for those in bold, warm hues. Consider paring down and displaying fewer, large pieces to create more visual impact.
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| A new look is attained by changing panels from green to ivory. |