Okay, so we all want to make our living spaces look like they’ve stepped straight out of a glossy magazine (we can dream, right?) but most of us also want those spaces to be comfortable and functional enough that we can slob around at the weekend or work on our hobbies through the week and still have a nice space around us.
Well, the good news is, it is perfectly possible to achieve a home decor that will enhance your home and your comfort levels too, and even better, it is not particularly hard to do, as you will see below.
1. Layered Lighting: A Game Changer
If you’ve ever thought your room felt a bit meh, chances are, lighting (or lack thereof) played a part. Enter the game-changer: layered lighting. It’s all about having a mix of ambient, task, and accent lights to set the mood faster than you can say “mood lighting.” Imagine being able to create an ambiance that makes your late-night cheese snack in the kitchen feel like a clandestine meeting in a Parisian bistro. It’s that transformative.
2. The Wonders of Plantation Shutters
When it comes to window treatments, plantation shutters are hard to beat for form and function. Not only do they look sleek and sophisticated, but they’re also pros at letting in the perfect amount of sunshine and keeping nosy neighbours’ eyes out. Think of them as the cool bouncer at your favourite club, carefully selecting which rays get to groove on your dancefloor. Beyond their functionality, they add a timeless charm, turning any room from ‘just alright’ to ‘alright, alright, alright’ in the style stakes.
3. The Art of the Indoor Jungle
Now, for a touch of green without the need for a green thumb – indoor plants. Adding a bit of foliage indoors doesn’t just up your home’s oxygen levels; it transforms it into a veritable oasis. And while talking to your plants might not make them grow faster (the jury’s still out on that one), it definitely adds character to your space. Choose low-maintenance champions like devil’s ivy or a robust ZZ plant to bring in some life without the high stakes of plant parenthood.
4. Statement Furniture Pieces
Every room needs a hero, and in the decor world, that’s your statement furniture piece. It could be a bold armchair, an eclectic coffee table, or a sideboard that’s more art than furniture. This isn’t just about splurging on something flashy; it’s about finding a piece that reflects your unique style and ties the room together, like the plot twist in a telenovela that suddenly makes everything make sense.
5. Soft Furnishings and Textiles Galore
Never underestimate the power of a good throw pillow, a plush rug, or a chunky knit blanket to make your space feel like a warm hug. Soft furnishings are the secret sauce to adding layers of texture, warmth, and personality. And yes, they’re also fantastic for camouflaging that mysterious stain on the couch – you know, the one that appeared out of nowhere and resists all forms of cleaning like it’s part of a witness protection program.
6. Wallpaper Wonders
Gone are the days when wallpaper was a relic of the past, relegated to your grandma’s sitting room. Modern wallpaper designs are bold, beautiful, and a brilliant way to inject personality and depth into your space. Whether you opt for a dramatic feature wall or a subtle pattern throughout, wallpaper can transform your walls into a canvas of creativity. Just a heads up, though – applying it is an adventure, one that might test your patience (and your relationship) more than assembling flat-pack furniture.
7. Smart Storage Solutions
Let’s face it, no matter how much we Marie Kondo our lives, somehow, clutter accumulates like mystery socks in the laundry. The solution? Smart storage that doesn’t just hide your stuff but adds to the decor. Think ottomans that double as secret stashes for your winter blankets, or floating shelves that display your knick-knacks while keeping them off the floor. It’s like playing hide and seek with your belongings – out of sight but always right where you need them. And remember, the goal here is to reduce the clutter, not provide more hiding spots for it to breed.
8. Mixing Old With New
Blending vintage treasures with modern pieces isn’t just eco-friendly; it’s a recipe for creating a space that’s uniquely yours. That old chest you inherited or the vintage lamp you snagged at a flea market can add a layer of history and character that brand-new pieces just can’t match. It’s about creating a dialogue between the old and the new in your home, like having a great-great-grandparent at your ultra-modern dinner party. The stories these pieces bring (real or imagined) add depth and texture to your home’s narrative.
9. Colour Schemes That Speak
Colours have the power to transform not just walls but the entire mood of a room. Picking the right colour scheme can be like setting the soundtrack to your life – choose wisely, and you’ll have a background that uplifts, soothes, and invigorates. Whether you’re into serene blues, energizing yellows, or dramatic blacks, let your colours speak to your personality. Just be warned, painting is addictive; start with one room, and soon you’ll be eyeing the whole house like it’s your personal canvas.
10. Tech Integration That Doesn’t Intrude
In the age of smart homes, integrating tech without letting it dominate your decor is key. Look for ways to blend your gadgets with your style, like speakers that double as modern sculptures or TV units that hide your screens when not in use. The goal is to have technology at your fingertips without it feeling like you’re living in a server room. After all, your home should feel like a sanctuary, not the set of a sci-fi movie – unless that’s your vibe, of course.
11. Outdoor Spaces as Extensions of Your Home
Don’t forget about the great outdoors, or at least, your slice of it. Treating your patio or balcony as an extension of your interior space not only gives you more room to play with but also invites you to enjoy the fresh air more often. Add some comfy seating, outdoor rugs, and string lights to create a cozy atmosphere that’ll have you dining al fresco at every opportunity. And if your plants start demanding their own furniture, well, you know you’ve done something right.
12. Revive with Removable Wallpaper
For those who love the idea of wallpaper but fear commitment or live in a rental, removable wallpaper could be your new best friend, uneven if you are settled, it is a great way to ensure you can change up the decor quickly, and with little mess, which means you can always have the style that is most comfortable for you, Available in countless designs and patterns, it allows you to experiment with bold styles without the permanency of traditional wallpaper. It’s perfect for creating feature walls or adding a splash of colour to a room.
13. Embrace Open Shelving
Open shelving is a great storage solution, for sure, but it is also more than that it’s also a decor statement. Som why not take the time to replace youtube upper cabinets with open shelves that will enable you to display your prettiest dishes, glassware, and even a few carefully chosen decor items.
This is a really good decor choice because it opens up the space, making it feel lighter, brighter and more inviting, as well as giving it a more spacious feel. Not only that, but it also encourages you to keep your shelves neat and clutter-free, turning everyday items into part of your decor. Just remember, it’s not about showcasing everything but curating a selection that speaks to your style.
14. Floor Cushions and Poufs
Why not take the time to add an informal, bohemian vibe to your living area with floor cushions and poufs? They’re perfect for extra seating when guests come over or for creating a laid-back lounge area for movie nights too. Mix and match textures, colours, and patterns, and it’s a really easy way to inject personality and comfort into your space in a way that is easily changed when you grow bored. It’s like bringing the fun and flexibility of a picnic indoors, without the ants.
15. Personalize with DIY Art
You don’t need to be an artist to create art that adds a personal touch to your home. DIY art projects, from abstract canvas paintings to custom photo prints, can add a unique element to your walls. Gather some inspiration, grab your materials, and let your creativity flow. Not only will you end up with something truly one-of-a-kind, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of saying, “I made that,” every time someone compliments your decor.
Revamping your decor is all about taking the time to think about not only what looks good, but also how your choices will work for you, so always bear comfort in mind when picking out your latest home style.
