8 Ways to Improve the Way Your Home Looks & Lives
Did you know there are really only 8 things any home needs to transform it from so-so to fabulous? 8 decorating solutions to take your home from a place where you sleep to a place where you make happy memories? If you get these 8 design dilemmas right, you’ll be happier at home and your family and friends will be too.
The photo above from elleDECOR Magazine shows Frank Muytjen’s country retreat. It illustrates our top 8 must-haves for your home. So without further adieu, let’s look at what makes up this list and start making life better, one room at a time.
#1 Create remarkable gathering spaces.
Where do your friends and family gather in your home? It may surprise you that this is a different place in different homes, based as much on the personality of the homeowner as the architecture of the home. For some, it’s the kitchen. For some, it’s the great room or family room. Still others gather in the living room. And in the summer, many gather in the backyard. No matter which of these applies to you and your home, your gathering spaces should entice people to stay and linger because it’s comfortable, attractive, and inviting with a touch of excitement thrown into the mix. People don’t want to hang out in a boring place. Make yours feel alive with soft music and lighting that glows.
#2 Add quiet spaces just for you.
Everyone needs a place to retreat from the world. A place that is quiet, restful, and comforting. Where is your quiet place? Many of us retreat into our bedrooms. But don’t limit yourself. You could retreat into a spa-like bathroom or a favorite chair. It’s up to you.
#3 Incorporate unexpected luxury.
This can mean all kinds of things depending on your budget. Don’t rule out small luxuries that are not expensive like a wonderful, scented candle. Or an over-sized bath towel. A soft, beautiful throw blanket draped over a chair is luxurious. You’ll know you are on the right track if one of your 5 senses screams happiness.
#4 Make it organized.
Messy, cluttered rooms make you feel tired. It takes ongoing work to keep things neat and organized but it is the way to a happier home. Enough said.
#5 Balance and harmonize.
You’ll want to balance out colors and the visual weight of furniture in each room so the eye dances around the space without stopping in one area.
#6 Add your own, unique personality.
Use colors that you love. Showcase a collection. Add a piece of art that speaks to you. When you do, you’ll walk around and smile and so will the people who love you.
#7 Great lighting is a must-have.
Put everything on a dimmer switch. Use 3-way light bulbs. Add task lighting where you want to read. Emphasize all your windows with window coverings that accentuate all the positives and disguise any negatives.
#8 Make sure every room has life.
This includes pets, people, and plants. Our motto is to make life better one room at a time. Share your wonderful spaces and make happy memories with the ones you love.