We have all heard the phrase, “The devil is in the details.” The history of that mysterious idiom points out whatever one does, it should be done thoroughly. Details are important.
Finishing touches make all the difference, so when you have good bones to your space, but it still lacks the panache needed to turn your head, it might just be some small changes and tweaks needed to energize and modernize your room.
- Give your bookshelves a makeover! Plan your strategy by considering shape, texture, clusters and color.
- Remove art prints under glass and replace with original art … even if you need to be the artist!
- Frame a handwritten note from a loved one.
- Update pillows with a new color palette.
- Change a rug or pull it up to expose hardwood or tile floors.
- Put your lighting on a dimmer for a more ambient atmosphere.
- Overlap and layer empty frames painted in bold accent colors.
- Change your cabinet hardware.
- Remove tired towel racks and replace with hooks. Drape thick, new towels over the hooks for a textural difference.
- Tend to live plants by removing dead leaves and cleaning dust and debris from healthy leaves.
- Change your accessories to ones with bright, solid colors.
- Lean your artwork rather than hanging it for a way to easily move it later.
- Consider cowhides as rugs for a dramatic statement.
- Switch to a sisal rug when busy patterns are used in the furnishings.
- Peek under the skirt of a dated sofa to see what it would look like if reupholstered without the skirt.
- Still living with acrylic-handle faucets in your bathrooms? It is time to update them!
- Cover books with kraft paper and tie together with twine. The industrious version of this small change is to actually paint all of the spines and covers of old books one color.
- Stack your books and display in the typical filed manner.
Clear the clutter from tables and surfaces. I promise you won’t miss that coupon for 25 cents off pickles, and your loosing lottery ticket won’t suddenly turn into a winner. If your décor is modern, force yourself to buy one traditional item for your room. It will warm it up. Conversely, if you are traditional, a modern piece will add life to your space.