Change up your new home one project at a time

Are you ready for something new in your life but don't want to feel overwhelmed by doing a full project? Here are some single changes you can make that creates a big impact.

Paint

I can’t stress this enough, this is the best bang for your buck because you’re able to get with one can of paint a completely new feel to the room. You can do it yourself or hire it out, your option, however, don't look to your painter to select your colors (they hate this FYI & a few of my best painters are actually color blind; not ideal but they do amazing work so I’ll take it). Whether you hire or DIY it, make sure you either select a color that speaks about you & your personality and not your friends, neighbors or second cousins dog (J/K) & also makes sure it matches what scheme you have going on. That doesn’t mean you can’t go neutral but if you have new grey toned wood tile, don’t pick a tan color & vice versa don’t go gray on your walls if you have brown wood floors, choose a more taupe but pay attention to undertones!

Paint is ever so subjective but most importantly it can bring together elements in a home that otherwise look rather out of place. If you have trouble, there are designers that do color consultations (I do these as well) or Sherwin Williams sells colors to go containers that cover up to 75 SF & can help you envision your space with the new color. I find it best to paint a 2’ X 2’ square on the wall but do a few patches because from my experience different lighting and shadows can create different effects.  You can even get brave & learn how to paint or chalk paint some furniture you don’t use & give it new life!

Lighting

Now I’m not talking go out and buy all new lighting as that doesn’t come without a potentially high price tag. I’m talking light bulbs. Update old fluorescent (lets face it fluorescent lighting isn’t flattering & never was) to new LED technology. They actually use less energy & are way more becoming on anyone. They also come in color temperatures so find out which one you prefer, some clients have found they like more crisp white (blue spectrum, these are around 3100-4500 Kelvin) & others prefer more warm white (think golden, tan, these sit around 2000-3000 Kelvin), I prefer daylight which in color temperature is around 4600-6500 although 5000 seems to be the one I most prefer. 

Keep in mind the colors used in the interior are affected by the lamp change, which also plays a role in what paint color you choose. Tip: My preference if you must ask is to change your lighting first then choose paint colors.

Hardware-

Maybe your kitchen cabinets never had any (a lot of builders have started doing this as it saves them money). I have done this for a few clients & it really isn’t as expensive as you think as long as you don’t fall in love with high end hardware. Installation is another animal though if you don’t want to pay someone, hardware stores sell a guide that will help you drill in the correct location. Make sure it lines up though as I warn you, cheaper knockoff hardware does not all have the same drill points, you can thank me later. :0)

Rugs

Now this is such a broad statement, it’s like saying car to me however, there are some inexpensive rugs that can be shopped at local & online retailers that really can change the feel of a space. Some good guidelines though are again, stick with colors that tie into the space or into the new space you are trying to make. What to do with that old one? Donate, there are plenty of places just look locally & some like Austin pets alive, a local group takes donations & I in particular would like to know that I helped someone in the process. Another good one is the local women’s shelter as some won’t take furnishings but these women need things to help them rebuild their lives, so it really makes a difference.

If you want additional tips, go back to my other blog: Breathe new life into your home...either one that you start off with, remember it is always about having fun, don’t pressure yourself or let anyone else pressure you into a space you don’t like creating. This is for you, enjoy the process & if you need help with any of this, I’d be happy to help create your space for you, either way in the end, YOU & only you need to love it!