Oftentimes homeowners confide that they would really like to update their home and make it feel refreshed… but they aren’t sure where to start. “How can I improve my home’s style without losing the things I love most about it?” Our team at Rooms With Style is excited to share with you six action steps that you can take to renew your home without compromising what you love.
Look With Fresh Eyes
Plan a short “self-guided” tour of your home, as if you were the guest. Take a notepad with you and spend some time in each room of your house. What areas or items in each space bring you joy? What one or two things drive you nuts? Are there items in that space that just aren’t your style? Maybe something used to be your style but now.. not so much. Note how each space makes you feel. Don’t overthink it. Those first impressions can tell you so much.
Reflect On What You Love
Once you find the areas and items that bring you joy, decide if they also add a sense of story, history or personality. An heirloom quilt draped over an armchair or a mid-century lamp that you love will not only bring you joy, but also character to your home. You may find that some of your traditional, vintage or unique items are your favorites, and those you should definitely keep around!
Focus On Less Loved Features
In your home, decide what pieces could (or definitely should) be updated. Has that Ikea chair from college lost its comfort or appeal? Maybe it’s time to pass it on and find something new that brings you joy. It’s always a good idea to invest in some quality pieces that will last.
Notice What Catches Your Eye
Have you been admiring some styles that you have seen in magazines, home decor stores, blogs or on television? Determine what two or three features are consistent in those images. Is it certain colors, textures, furniture or accessories? You will be surprised at how easily your desired style can be modeled in your home.
Incorporate Those Style Features
Did you find that you needed more color in your home? Maybe less? Does your space need a focal point or a big area rug to center the space? Maybe simplified window treatments or more wall decor. Make a list of the things that could be changed and spend some time deciding which items would make the most impact in that space.
Keep Adjusting As You Go
Sometimes big changes come in small steps. Take your time as you slowly change and update. Maybe you spend time in just a single room, or maybe you go through the above steps one at a time around the whole house. You will be surprised at how just a few changes can make worlds of difference in updating your home. Take time to “piddle around” as the southerners say. Rearrange. Step back and look. Rearrange again. Enjoy the process and trust your instincts. Personal style is an evolution, and it’s okay to take your time.
Author: Marla Carlson, Rooms With Style Blogger
