Jun 19, 2012

Updates for summer!


Check out these easy ideas that don't require a major shopping trip.  Seasonal changes give you a fresh outlook and even a different appearance. 


1. Pare down. First pick up the area rug. For a lighter, summery feel,
    roll up your area rug and expose the floor.  Simplify your decor and remove heavy looking objects. Use fewer pillows on sofas and chairs, lighten up the number of objects displayed on your table tops.  A bonus, less dusting  when you throw open your windows and doors!

2. Swap your tables.  Instead of using large cocktail or coffee tables 
in the living room, try end tables instead. You often gain floor space, 
can place them at the point of use better, and reduce the heavy
 feel of large pieces in the center of a room.

3. Update your lampshades.  A new white shade can make a big difference in a room and to the fixture. If you're handy, update your existing lampshades with fabric, trims, paint, and stencils.
 With a small budget, you can purchase plain drum shades and decorate for the season, and even update them again for fall and winter. 
4. Bring wicker in.  Really emphasize the season by placing
 some of your outdoor pieces inside.  Try an iron side table by 
the sofa, a comfy wicker rocker in the family room. I recommended 
that my client spray her dated brown wicker furniture, and do a 
bit of antiquing;  now it's perfect year-round inside.
5. Swap knobs or paint. Instead of the brass knobs, replace dresser, 
cabinet and other hardware with something new. Big box stores,
 second-hand shops, and even Target, sell inexpensive sets of great looking hardware for fast and inexpensive updates.  My single most inexpensive, easy to execute,  and update to furniture is paint.  With a new color, nearly ANY surface can be transformed. Not artistic? Use stencils!.