It is proven over and over that the devil is in the detail – especially when it comes to good design.
When a space has a good structure but it still lacks the panache needed to take your breath away, it might just be the right finishing touches that are missing.
A little tweak here and the right change there will add energy and style to your room.
Upholstery:
- One of the easiest is to update with pillows. Consider shapes other than the square. One of my favorites is the ball shaped pillow.
- These same pillows can trumpet in a new color palette. The drama of a monochromatic room that features a piece of art bursting with color can be completed by repeating the hues in the pillow fabric.
- Peek under the skirt of a dated sofa to see what it would look like if reupholstered without the skirt. Sometimes it is possible to go a step further and actually replace the legs of a sofa for a more updated look.
Art
- Remove art prints under glass and replace with original art even if you need to be the artist. Reserve glass for photos, pen and ink, and water color. Original art has soul that that is lacking in a print of even a fine master.
- Art could be as simple as a framed handwritten note from a loved one or a meaningful quote.
- Overlap and layer empty frames painted in bold accent colors.
- Try leaning your artwork rather than hanging and layering accessories in front of it.
Flooring:
- Refinish hardwood floors if the luster is gone and the scratches prevail. Beautiful wood makes a room.
- Change an area rug if it’s looking tired and dated.
- Consider cowhides as rugs for a dramatic statement.
Baths:
- Remove tired towel racks and replace with hooks. Drape thick, new towels over the hooks for a textural impact. Update your bathroom faucet and lighting for a big impact.
Lighting:
- Retire dusty, dated ivory lamp shades for some of the newer linen barrel shades. Consider the size and scale when making the transition.
- Examine your foyer lighting – if it brings back memories of dancing to the Bee Gees, it really is time for a change.
Accessories:
- Replace fussy accessories with ones that are clean lined in bold, solid colors. You don’t need to have every color of your pallet in every single item. Give the eye a chance to rest with accessories that have no pattern.
- Stack your books of one color or display with the page edge visible. Cover them with art paper for a designer look.
- Clear the clutter from tables and surfaces. I promise that you won’t miss that coupon for peanut butter and that your losing scratch-off lottery ticket won’t suddenly turn into a winner.
