Whether building a new home or remodeling a current home, most budgets can only stretch so far. No money left after the big job? Don't worry. Use these quick fix ideas to give existing furnishings a fresh look without breaking the bank.
Just Add Paint: Freshly painted walls in coordinating colors can update the look of existing rooms. For a no-fail color scheme choose an inspiration piece from the new space such as an area rug, favorite picture or even a granite counter top. Select three colors from that piece to use as a guide for painting adjoining spaces. For example, use the background color for the walls in the family room. Choose a deeper color for the hallway walls and the boldest color for the powder room.
Fabric Ottoman Coffee Table
Arrange For Comfort: Try placing existing furniture on an angle for a fresh, new twist. Aim for cozy conversation groupings in a 6 to 8 foot radius to promote better family interaction. Pull your seating away from the walls and into the room to create more comfortable and intimate spaces.
Think Outside the Box: Use your old things in new ways. Switch out furniture from other rooms to instantly redecorate and refresh a space. Move the china cabinet into the entry for a dramatic focal point. Use an antique hope chest or large ottoman as a coffee table. A bedroom dresser becomes a sideboard with the addition of a large piece of art work and a pair of buffet lamps. Break up sets of furniture to eliminate that "matchy-matchy" look.
Artful Accessories: A few well chosen accessories can transform a room. Add colorful throw pillows to the sofa in silk, velvet or tapestry. Give old lamps an up-dated look with new shades. Un-clutter the coffee table and bookshelves. Group items in odd numbers. Try 3, 5, or 7 to keep things interesting. Choose several large scale pieces for drama. Add canned "up" lights behind floor plants to create interesting wall shadows.
Raise The Rods: Give any room a new look simply by raising the curtain rods. Raising the rods 6 to 10 inches above the frame allows more light which makes windows appear taller and rooms feel more spacious. This works particularly well for top treatments such as valances. If curtain panels are too short to raise, create a custom look by adding a band of coordinating fabric at the top or bottom hem.