In planning for décor updates for 2014 I thought it pertinent to look back at some of the ideas we've covered this year. Sometimes you have to look back in order to move forward.
In January we looked at using height to create drama. Vertical lines brought to the ceiling can provide tons of drama and make a room feel grand. Changes like adding a netted canopy at the head of the bed or setting tile in a vertical design can make a basic room pop with dramatic flair. Other ideas include painting a wide vertical band of colour in strategic locations, like the head of the bed, or choosing artwork that has height.
We saw some interesting wine accents and lighting courtesy of Wicker World. It's always a good idea to seek out the unusual to give your décor that personal touch. Whether you're a connoisseur or not, wine related accents are timeless.
We touched on using specialty paints, like chalkboard paint, to create a fun and attractive design element to a child's room. Remember, chalkboard paint can be used in grown-up spaces as well. A well-appointed menu board in a kitchen or dining room can be charming. As well, using chalkboard paint on the inside of a cabinet door can make easy work of quick notations and reminders at grocery time. The fun part is that these specialty paints now come in a variety of colours, which makes them not only useful but also decorative.
If you're planning on selling your home in 2014 then my column on staging your home for resale will be of value to review again. We heard from design, realty and cleaning experts on what to do when preparing your home for resale. We covered the gamut from cleaning your home to using a professional stager. Next year's housing sales look strong so there will be a lot of competition. Make sure your house stands out from the rest of the market if you're planning on selling.
The column that I got the most feedback on was the kitchen updates for under $300. The use of inexpensive wood trim to update flat cabinet doors and the installation of affordable Smart Tiles on the backsplash was a hit with readers. A lot of you followed my lead and did similar updates in your own kitchens. The outcomes were awesome and the best part was the DIY factor. Projects like this can be accomplished in a weekend and can provide a great bang for your buck as well as giving you a great sense of accomplishment.
We all like to save money and find clever ways to achieve this goal, especially when decorating. The feature I wrote on the transformation of a loft bedroom hit the mark in many ways.
I purchased new cans of paint from a thrift store, which was affordable and also helped the community, to give the attic space a fresh look. I was able to update the ceiling lighting simply by replacing the shades on the ceiling fixtures. Again, I found the lampshades at thrift stores and dollar stores and either painted them or covered them in fabric to give them a new look.
Large fabric remnants from the thrift store were used to make new window curtains and to create a funky headboard. I also got a large remnant of new carpeting and recovered the stair treads leading up to the attic for $10.
All in all, this was another inexpensive and successful project. Don't overspend at big box stores when the stuff you need might be found at thrift stores, flea markets and clearance or remnant bins at local retailers. Keep an open mind.
Sometimes, a life event, like retirement for example, can spur on a desire for a totally new décor, as was the case in my feature article on Pat and Mark's home. When you find yourself at a cross roads, consider that a change can be as good as a rest. A fresh start can renew your outlook and nurture your creative spirit.
Other times you just want to infuse a bit of change without updating your entire home. This is a time to consider creating a grand focal wall either with paint or with textural elements like stone. Focal walls are important but remember that the rest of the room needs to relate to provide a cohesive look.
Sometimes the change you desire is a calmer, serene space such was the case in my column about neutralizing your décor. De-cluttering and infusing a subdued colour palette can calm the mind and the soul. It's a way of simplifying your life stylishly.
This past year, we looked at a few different décor styles like the nautical style and classic black and white. There's nothing wrong with sticking to what works. Infuse your own personality into these popular décor styles to create a truly unique space.
Patience is a virtue when planning to update your décor. If, for example, you need a piece of wall art for a specific space just let go and give it time and you'll most likely happen upon the perfect item in the last place you would have looked. Sometimes you have to let items find you instead of forcing the issue.
Shop at out-of-the-way local shops when possible. You'd be amazed at what they have to offer. They carry unique items that you probably won't find in the mainstream stores and you'll be helping to support local businesses.
It's been a great year of learning and sharing. I'm looking forward to hearing of your decorating trials and tribulations in 2014. I wish you all the best in the New Year in your lovely homes!
connieoliver@shaw.ca
