The new year brings with it the hope for a fresh start! It is a time to make resolutions, change your lifestyle habits, and create the “you” you really want to be. Our homes are a reflection of what we love, what we believe, and who we are. They are the backdrop to the stage of our lives, and we have the power to design the entire stage! But where do we begin? Let’s explore 6 tips on how to transform your space for a new year and a new you!
TAKE INVENTORY: SEE WHAT YOU HAVE
Image: BHG
When you have lived in a space for a long time it is difficult to see it with fresh eyes. To recreate your space, you will need to start envisioning the rooms in your home in a fresh way in your mind’s eye. Allow yourself to dream about how you want your space to feel and what mood you want it to convey. Look over all of your possessions and determine what you love, what would look great with a makeover, what might look great in another room, and what you are ready to part with. Most of us are on tight budgets and have to be very practical when redecorating. If this describes you, consider what you can afford and what you can make the best of for the time being. For example, I wanted new couches in our living room but new furniture wasn’t in our budget. To make-do, I bought slipcovers for the sofas which gave them the look, feel, and color that I craved. Determine what you have to work with and get rid of everything else that is in the way! This brings us to our next tip…
DECLUTTER: GET RID OF EVERYTHING YOU DON’T LOVE
Image: How to Decorate
Decluttering your home is a difficult and often messy and emotional process, but the rewards reaped are worth it! Think of how you feel when you walk through the front door and are greeted by shoes and coats spilling out into your path, books and toys all over the coffee table, and mail and dirty dishes in the kitchen. Now compound that feeling with too many tchotchkes and pieces of furniture in the room. Just thinking about it makes my chest tighten and my blood pressure go up! Keeping a tidy home is made much easier when we own less, and to own less we have to declutter.
Many of us have a tendency to hang onto things even when deep down we know it is time to let them go. A good rule of thumb to follow for any object in your home is to get rid of it if you haven’t enjoyed it or used it in the last 2 years. Also, if you do not have the proper space to neatly store the items, chances are good they are weighing you down and creating a burden. Our possessions should serve us and bring us joy. If they are burdening us, then it is time to get rid of some!
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Melanie Gross says
So, is there such a style as Traditional/French Country and Cottage/Shabby Chic? These are the things I love. French inspired furniture lines, soft beige/ivory colors, distressed/aged furniture with pastoral decoupaging, gingham/pastoral toile full ceiling to floor drapes and bedskirts, 6 ft. wainscoting, dental molding…etc. I know, weird right?
Mary says
This are great tips for a beautiful lookout. Thank you.
April says
I think this would be a fun traveling holiday party. If only I could get my girlfriends on board. Hmmm…. Maybe I’ll try that.
Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication says
Excellent tips! Definitely have to remember them as I work on our bedroom!
Wendy says
This is so timely for our next destination !! I’ll be sure and reference it often as we do our planning and set up for the new place !
Leslie Stewart @ House on the Way says
Great tips Beth! Have a great weekend!
Leslie